TWICE ADOPTED

Monday Musings

2012-01-16T07:23:00.000-08:00

This is the first wooden pulpit.

Here are a few tidbits from Sunday service at Hope Chapel:

God doesn't call you to church to sit on your hands. He calls you to church to raise your hands and lift Him up. Pastor Steve

When you think about cutting your tithe: "You looked for much, and behold, it came to little. And when you brought it home, I blew it away. Why? declares the LORD of hosts. Because of my house that lies in ruins, while each of you busies himself with his own house." Haggai 1:9 (ESV)

"For most people, the disaster of life is that they give up just one effort too soon." Will Barclay

When I cut myself, I run to get a bandaid. It hurts and I don't want to bleed. To give blood to someone else is not something I think about. Some people do give their blood by transfusion. To give all your blood, is to die. Jesus gave His all for all of us. An Elder(?) at Hope Chapel

Sunday Hope

2012-01-15T12:25:00.000-08:00

Monday Musings

2012-01-02T09:03:00.000-08:00

"To whom will you compare me?

Or who is my equal?" says the Holy One.

Lift your eyes and look to the heavens:

Who created all these?

He who brings out the starry host one by one,

and calls them each by name.

Because of his great power and mighty strength,

NOT ONE OF THEM IS MISSING.

Isaiah 40:25-26

Sunday Snippits

2012-01-01T13:59:00.000-08:00

I'm going to try and be a little better at blogging, if only a couple of days a week. One thing I'd like to do is share something I learned or liked from church services, whether from Hope Chapel or any church we may visit. So, to start the new year right, here are a few things from today's service at Hope Chapel.

When you decide to obey God, be prepared for three things to happen:
1) DISCOURAGEMENT - This is the devil's greatest weapon. He knows our flesh is weak and uses that against us.
2) DISTRACTIONS - You will find yourself rationalizing why you don't pray or read the Bible (for me, it's "I'll do it later" and I never did)
3) DETRACTORS - People who make fun of you or laugh at you because of your faith. Don't let these people cause you to give up or hide. Continue to trust God.

So, I decided on a word for the year - EXPECTANT! (Marked by eager anticipation)

Live EXPECTANTLY - expect God to work in ways you can't even imagine this year. Let Him work and quit trying to work for Him or tell Him how to work things out. God's way is always the right way. There is great security in obedience.

"You will never obey God and regret it." Pastor Zac Nazarian (not sure if this is his quote or someone else)

Right Now...

2011-12-24T22:08:00.000-08:00

Just being a copycat...

Right now I am: At my mother-in-law's house ... had Christmas dinner with Dan's brother and his family.

Watching: The Sound of Music

Eating: Nothing right now. Had tri-tip, baked potatoes, veggies, garlic bread, fruit salad, green salad, olives, cookies, apple cake, candy...

Drinking: Egg nog. One of my favorite holiday drinks.

Wearing: Green pants, green shirt, red vest.

Avoiding: Nothing at the moment.

Feeling: Relaxed. So nice to be somewhere just hanging out and having nothing to do or get ready for.

Missing: My friend, Noonie. When we come to SLO, she and I would get together at some point and we'd also go out for breakfast at Margie's before I left. :(

Thankful: For family and friends...to be able to get together with them as much as possible.

Weather: Chilly outside. It's been a nice, warmish day. Haven't had to wear any sweater or jacket. California Christmas weather.

Praying: For sick relatives and friends - for healing. For family far away. For those who are spending Christmas alone.

Needing: A plan for next year regarding blogging, FBing and internet activity, in general...organization.

Thinking: About how much I miss living in San Luis Obispo. Everytime we visit, it's hard to go back to LA.

Loving: How much God loves us. How He knows all and sees all and cares about everything and everyone in our lives.

That's it! So how about you? What's happening right now?

InstaFriday

2011-11-04T09:33:00.000-07:00

Linking with Jeannett and InstaFriday. I don't have an iPhone, but that's okay. You are welcome to join with any cellphone pics. I missed last week, so here are just a few from the past two weeks.

Well, it's kind of hard to see, but a neighbor or two really did it up for Halloween. Kind of reminds me of friends in SLO.

Just some pretty blossoms on one of our walks. Can you believe I can't remember where. I think Santa Cruz on our way to the Partners International conference.

Just looking out to the ocean in Capitola on way to Mt. Hermon camp just up the road.

And we made it. Edna didn't want to drive by herself, so she asked Dan if we wanted to go up with her. We didn't even hesitate. One...we were going to Mt. Hermon and Two...we were going to see my sister-in-law, Marilyn, who has worked with PI since 1979...as long as we've been married. Wow!

These were on a tree in the Mt. Hermon Conf. office...made of wood. So cute.

Our nametags. They had ribbons you could stick on your tags...something that maybe expressed who you are or what you believed...just some fun stuff. Dan's originally said "Golf Coordinator". He didn't like the Coordinator part because he didn't want people to think he was actually going to coordinate a golf match of some sort. So, we cut that part off and added the "Go Green." I think that worked pretty well. :)

Our tub has feet! Our cabin was fun, except for the HUGE spider. Sorry, couldn't stand looking at him, much less take a picture. :)

They had a parade of countries (can't remember actual name) where staff/volunteers wore costumes from each of the countries represented by the missionaries from Partners. SO beautiful. You can't see very well, but that's Marilyn and I can't remember her country. So bad of me.

They had drawings for different items from the different countries represented. I won this necklace from Malta. You can search for Mdina Glass to see the beautiful things they make. The cross is the Crusaders' design and the eight points represent the Beatitudes. So pretty. Haven't won anything in a long time.

Can't believe this is the ONLY picture I took when we were able to get together with some friends of ours from SLO (Dauphins) who now live in the area. The fellowship and food was so nice. It was fun getting together, seeing the kids who have grown up so much and just catching up.

Just about home - there's our exit. What a great weekend!

Okay. You're turn!

Hope Sunday

2011-10-23T17:41:00.000-07:00

2011-10-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

We went to the Honda Center for a concert - Lord of the Rings. It was really nice except for the fact that it was the whole movie. Don't get me wrong, I love the movie. But even the lady next to me was disappointed. We both watched the movie to get psyched up for it and thought it would be just different scenes with the orchestra playing music for that scene. That's what they did with Star Wars last year, apparently. So, we sit for almost four hours. The music was beautiful, the soloists were okay (no comparison to Enya). Still a fun night with the kids (even though they weren't feeling well, but were able to get through this). It was actually a birthday night for Dan (a few weeks removed).

I didn't even think about taking this picture till after I passed the bushes. They were so pretty with all their colorful flowers. You can kind of see the different colors. Just around the corner from me. Might take another shot if I get a chance.

A few blocks away this corner house decorated for Halloween. Kind of reminds me of a friend who really does it up for holidays. I don't do Halloween decorating, but it's kind of fun to see other's stuff.

And we DO have Fall in Redondo Beach! :)

Okay. Now link up your photos. I have to thank Jeannett again for this fun Friday blogging. At least I get a blog a week done, for the most part. Will try to do more.

Look for a friend...

2011-10-18T17:49:00.000-07:00

Look for a friend who will love you unconditionally and accept you as you are, as she points you toward Jesus. Look for someone who will walk with you through thick and thin, as she reminds you that Jesus cares and understands. Susan Miller, After the Boxes Are Unpacked

No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

1 John 4:12 NIV

InstaFriday

2011-10-13T23:14:00.000-07:00

I love this InstaFriday blogging, but I'm not doing it as well as I would like. Well, here are a few things from this past week. Happy Friday and link up with us.

Just for the fun of it, I took a few shots through the sun roof of my fun car. I don't know why it took me so long to open it while driving, but I decided it was a great way to get my Vitamin D that, apparently, I am lacking. It's so fun and warm and sunny - I do have to wear a hat or pull my hair into a ponytail, but that's fine. I'd rather do that than have my hair flying everywhere and knotting up. It feels so good to have my roof open while driving - not as much fun on the freeway, but I hardly drive there.

Waiting for the train to pass by. I wish I would have been prepared because at the tail end of the train was a rail truck following the train. Looked so funny. Reminded me of Back to the Future III when Marty ended up on the train tracks when he came back to the future. :)

I finally picked up my Hymns sign that Joy left at my mother-in-law's house. LOVE it! Gotta hang it up now. Let's hope it doesn't take as long to do that task as it did to get it.

I tried to get a picture of an airplane going overhead. Should have opened my sunroof. Duh!!!!! I'm sitting in the cellphone parking lot for LAX waiting for Liz and Gregg to arrive from OR after visiting her sister. They had a great weekend. It was supposed to be the weekend we were all going to be up their for Danielle's wedding, but it didn't happen. Instead, they had Danielle Day and a ton of her friends came from all over just to be with her to support her on this difficult weekend. It was a success! I thank God that she has supportive friends who care about her and come to her when she needs them.

Can you see the plane? :) haha

We were in SLO visiting and when we come for a visit, we usually go to our storage unit to look for a couple of things that we decided we needed after all. Well, we were going through one of Dan's boxes and lo and behold... PEACE!!!

...and a gift he THINKS he bought for me years ago, but just never bothered to give me. haha I love this cute little jewelry box.

And the earrings aren't bad either. Wish you could see them better in my ear. :)

Well, now it's your turn to join us with your cellphone pics. Whether you have an iPhone or not (like me), you are welcome to share. Have a fun Friday.

Hope Sunday

2011-10-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

I keep changing the name of Sunday's blog. I'll keep it to Hope Sunday.

InstaFriday

2011-10-07T12:48:00.000-07:00

Where we ate lunch with Dave, Marie and Edna to celebrate hers and Dan's birthdays. Such a beautiful day in Cayucos. Even though it was windy, the glassed barrier kept it from bothering us. So nice.

Walked on the pier. THERE it was really windy. Dave lost his hat in the water and we watched as a pelican claimed it and sat on it. So funny. And those spikes on the lamppost would keep ANYone off.

The south end of Cayucos where some friends of ours are building a beach house. I'm so, SO jealous. Notice the stairs and the sign and the VIEW. See why I'm jealous. I'm excited for them. I already told them we were going to stay with them when we come up to visit. I think they're okay with that.

This is a plaque on the bench just at the top of the stairs where my friend's beach access begins.

I hope you have a very fun and exciting or relaxing weekend. Join us with your cellphone pics. It's fun to see and meet new friends.

What I Read Wednesday

2011-10-05T07:06:00.000-07:00

Psalm 149:3 Let them praise his name with dancing,

making melody to him with tambourine and lyre!

I love dancing...always have, but haven't done it for so long, until now. I am in a class called Hula Praise at our church. We do the hula to Christian songs. We have learned Open the Eyes of My Heart and How Great Is Our God. I couldn't picture doing it, till I did it. I used to Hula when I lived in Hawaii and did a few shows. But never to Christian lyrics. Here's a sample. Some movements are different from group to group, but all in all, it's a way to praise God. That's what my teacher wanted to do with her hula. She didn't want to honor other gods, so tried to get a class like this together to honor Our God. It's fun and it really is a good workout, if you do it right.

InstaFriday

2011-09-30T12:36:00.000-07:00

We've been dealing with Dan and his stomach problem this week. Had an endoscopy yesterday and will hopefully get results soon. I guess I could have taken a couple of shots with my cellphone while waiting. Then I could have added them to this InstaFriday post since I didn't get too many this week again. :)

This was the sight of the beach BEFORE we even started our walk. So, you know that by the time I got back to this spot it was dark. I don't like it getting dark so soon. I'm a summer person and love the long days and walking while it's still light. But, that being said, it was actually pretty nice by the time we got back to this spot and not very cold either. So, I guess I can handle it for now. Oh, and all the stuff on the beach is all the bleachers and things that were taken down after the Hermosa Beach Volleyball tournament from the weekend. Can't believe I missed it. One day I will get to these tourneys just for the fun of watching. LOVE volleyball!

Liz and Gregg called to see if Dan and I wanted to meet them at Red Robin for lunch. Dan was already at work, so I went and joined them. I usually take pics of my food. Oh, well.

Then we went to the theatre to see The Help. On the way we say this.

Of course, Liz couldn't resist...

After the movie, which was excellent, by the way, I decided on the way out, to stop for the best drink (although those others sound pretty scrumptious) - Pumpkin Spice Latte and a cookie...didn't get dessert earlier, so figured it was time.

And I just happened to see this mall cop riding around. Didn't have my cellphone handy at the moment, so that's why the distant view.

And one of my DIY projects happened way back at Cal Poly. I happened to take an Art class where we made one thing from silver, one thing from clay and one thing from wood. God a C on the silver choker I made; a B on the mug with a place to put your hands and an A on my shifter knob. Woodworking is in my blood. Should I get together with Mr. Ernstrom? :) haha No, this was the only thing I ever made using real woodworking tools. It was supposed to be for my husband, but I didn't make quite what he wanted, but this still worked in a couple of our cars, one of which we had to send to the junk yard after a tree fell on it. I HAD to salvage this. It was black at one point, but I cleaned it up. Now it's on display.

Your turn to show off your fun/silly cellphone pics...and you don't have to have an iPhone to do this. I don't have one, but I enjoy trying to do this each week. Gives me something specific to blog about. :)

And don't forget to add this week's InstaChallenge: DIY

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-09-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

I don't even know who this little boy was, but I met him on my Compassion International Sponsorship tour when I went to Guatemala. He was being adopted by friends of a gal I met in my group. He is absolutely precious - notice he's not looking at the camera? He was watching his new parents. How adorable is he?

What an honor to be able to share in this time with someone I didn't know - to see the transferring of this little guy into his new family. Kind of made me think of when I was adopted. I wonder if it was anything like this. I know my adoptive parents loved me, but they never really mentioned a lot about my time in Guatemala or my family and I wish they would have told me more about my background. But, I don't know anyone who is around that can tell me anything anymore. Not sure if I can research it either, but maybe I should try. What do you think?

I treasure the fact that God placed me in Guatemala and that He brought me to the United States and orchestrated my life the way He did. He knows what He is doing. So thankful for the life He had for me and has for me for the future.

What I Read Wednesday

2011-09-28T22:56:00.000-07:00

"¹⁹And all the people said to Samuel, "Pray for your servants to the LORD your God, that we may not die, for we have added to all our sins this evil, to ask for ourselves a king." ²⁰And Samuel said to the people, "Do not be afraid; you have done all this evil. Yet do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart. ²¹And do not turn aside after empty things that cannot profit or deliver, for they are empty. ²² For the LORD will not forsake his people, for his great name’s sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you a people for himself. ²³Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you, and I will instruct you in the good and the right way. ²⁴ Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you. ²⁵But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king." 1 Samuel 12:19-25

Verse 23 caught my eye. It was convicting to me because I'm always saying, "I'll pray for you..." "I'm praying for you..." and so on and so on. Prayer is something I want to be more deliberate with, but it's so hard to schedule it into my day. It sounds so weird to say that I should schedule prayer into my day, but I was thinking how Jesus took time in the morning, or whenever, just to go by Himself to pray. I'll have more to say on this in another blog, but right now I really want to follow through when I say "I will pray for you." I even made a notebook and everything. I've gotten into the habit of waking up early in the morning so I can read the Bible and study. And I do a quick prayer for my kids each morning, but there is so much to pray about, and I want to just sit down for a little while and just pray. Too many distractions...and that's the first thing I need to do. Cut down my computer and TV time.

So, how does prayer fit in your busy day?

Loving Others

2011-09-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

Do you resemble God by the way that you love?

Do others know you are a Christian

by the love you show in your life?

Jesus says that other people should be able to

recognize us as Christians

by the evidence of our love for others.

Dr. Deborah Newman Then God Created Woman

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:34 (NIV)

Preacher Green in The Help said: "If you can love your enemy, you already have victory."

God says: "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil." Luke 6:35

What are ways you can show love to your neighbors, your family and friends and your enemies or people who are 'irregular people' in your life? Ask God to show you how you can be more like Jesus and love people as He would have you love them.

ChristArt.com

Even though the boy was ripping her doll apart, the little girl offered him cookies - a way to show love to someone who does you wrong.

Sunday Hope

2011-09-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

Every Sunday there is a different quote. Can't help but share them with you each Sunday. Sorry for the blur. I'll try to get better shots.

InstaFriday

2011-09-23T10:53:00.000-07:00

I'm going to try to be more deliberate with this InstaFriday thing. I think I said that last week. :) Well, at least I'm trying and it's fun to try and get shots with my cellphone since it is always (well, almost) with me. It's a little slow sometimes, but someday I hope to upgrade again. So here we go with my few pics for the week.

I finally went to Sprouts to check it out. There were a lot of people. Bought a lot of veggies and fruit since that is lacking in our daily diet. Trying hard to eat more balanced, as usual. Anyway, I blogged about this before, ha, on another InstaFriday post. This is what I like to see...a cart in it's place, all snugged up together. Thank you for taking the time to put your cart away.

In lieu of dirty dishes, I stop here (don't tell my doctor) for my favorite child dogs. If I'm going to do something like this, I try to only do it once a month. Amazing I can hold out so long.

These chairs are very close to the ground. I don't think I'd be able to sit in them and get up without any help. They are very cute, though. When I leave work at 1:00pm, there are usually 4-5 housekeeping staff sitting there and just chatting away, taking a break. They do a great job. Every morning, Lupe comes and takes our trash, recycling, dusts and is very friendly and fun to chat with. I overheard her talking with a co-worker and it sounded like she was giving him Spanish lessons. Too cute. Maybe I should get in on that. I try to make a point of thanking them for their hard work and wish them a good rest of the day.

What I don't like is dirty dishes, especially since I don't have a dishwasher other than myself...Dan does dishes, too. I've been trying to make sure I get them done soon after they have been used and this makes for a very pleasant morning to come into a clean kitchen. When I leave them overnight, I just want to crawl back into bed and hope the "dish elf" will come and do them. If I leave them when I go to work, he does come sometimes, if he has time before he goes to work. For the most part, we've been good about getting them done so we don't have a counter full of stuff that needs to be cleaned in order to make the next meal.

So join us for InstaFriday. Click the button below and find out how.

InstaFriday

2011-09-18T20:53:00.000-07:00

Taking a walk on Manhattan Pier. They didn't want their picture taken so I took it from behind. Dave, my brother-in-law, came for a Dodgers game and quick visit. We went to breakfast (can't believe I didn't take pictures of our food) and then for a walk on the pier.

These were Liz and my seats for the game. Dan and Dave were a few rows to the right of us.

The following are pictures of flowers and a house in Hermosa Beach that was kind of cool. No one is living there right now. I think it's a vacation home - the windows were all covered. I wonder if they would like some house sitters for the times they are gone?

This is my hydrangea bush. It didn't bloom like it did last year. So sad. The bad stuff was cut off and then all of a sudden there were two little blooms with a few more still to come.

I was glad to know that the Pepsis were "Not Actual Size" in the vending machine. Would have been too big to carry.

But I was sooooo thirsty.

This was on my Monday walk. It took a few minutes to get my cell phone ready to take this pic, but I was trying to get the massive flock of birds that were flying around the beach.

I was trying to get a picture of the moon and the stop light. The arrow was red and seemed to be pointing to the moon. Since I was in my car, I had a hard time trying to do it quick before the light changed, so forgot to zoom. Can you figure it out? Was straight in front of me.

I almost forgot a picture of something I love. I love my friends. The wall that this picture is on has a few framed pics or things from friends. This big one was signed by friends at our good-bye gathering at Ken's house. It's nice to every so often, look at the signatures and remember the good times and to get some encouragement when I need it. What a keepsake. Love it!

If you haven't already, link up with Jeannett for InstaFriday, posting pics of your week with your iPhone using InstaGram or just use your cell, like I do. Fun to see everyone's pics.

Gazing on Him

2011-09-18T07:20:00.000-07:00

We tend to expect a great deal from our still-growing daughters. We want them to be

God-pleasing, faith-filled,

prayer-oriented, Word-wise,

self-controlled, smart, responsible,

respectful, healthy, happy, generous,

well-groomed, kind, capable,

and content with what they have.

But are we daily trusting Him - that He is bringing them ever closer to being conformed to the image of His beloved Son? Debra Evans, Kindred Hearts

Let us hold unswervingly

to the hope we profess,

for he who promised is faithful.

Hebrews 10:23 (NIV)

I Was There (Meet Me in the Stairwell)

2011-09-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxJiiWo0JbE

You say you will never forget where you were when you heard the news on September 11, 2001. Neither will I.
I was on the 110th floor in a smoke filled room with a man who called his wife to say "Goodbye." I held his fingers steady as he dialed. I gave him the peace to say, "Honey, I am not going to make it, but it is OK ... I am ready to go." I was with his wife when he called as she fed breakfast to their children. I held her up as she tried to understand his words and as she realized he wasn't coming home that night.
I was in the stairwell of the 23rd floor when a woman cried out to Me for help. "I have been knocking on the door of your heart for 50 years!" I said. "Of course I will show you the way home - only believe on Me now."
I was at the base of the building with the Priest ministering to the injured and devastated souls. I took him home to tend to his Flock in Heaven. He heard my voice and answered.
I was with the Firefighters, the Police Officers, the Emergency Workers. I was there, watching each brave step they took.
I was on all four of those planes, in every seat, with every prayer. I was with the crew as they were overtaken. I was in the very hearts of the believers there, comforting and assuring them that their faith has saved them.
I was in Texas, Kansas, London. I was standing next to you when you heard the terrible news. Did you sense Me?

I want you to know that I saw every face. I knew every name - though not all know Me. Some met Me for the first time on the 86th floor. Some sought Me with their last breath. Some couldn't hear Me calling to them through the smoke and flames; "Come to Me...this way...take My hand." Some chose, for the final time, to ignore Me. But, I was there.
I did not place you in the Tower that day. You may not know why, but I do. However, if you were there in that explosive moment in time, would you have reached for Me?
September 11, 2001 was not the end of the journey for you. But someday your journey will end. And I will be there for you as well.
Seek Me now while I may be found. Then, at any moment, you know you are "ready to go." I will be in the stairwell of your final moments.
~~~ God ~~~
Written by: Stacey Randall

September 11 Tribute'

2011-09-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

"What Do We Know?"

Thousand Foot Krutch

Pick up the phone, nobody's home, I'm all alone,
We've all been here before,
But yesterday, I saw a change, another way,
As you walked out the door
It's a twist, a little bit, I'll admit,
But we're stronger than before,
Open up, we've had enough, we've had enough,
Now we're holdin' on,.....and waiting

What do we know? What do we know?
What do we know? What do we know?
What do we know? What do we know?
I'll tell you what they're all sayin' (X2)

We all try to be somebody, but the world around us
Makes it so cloudy, when,
We all trust where we're supposed to, but the blood on
Their Hands says we're not close to the answer yet
But maybe if we pulled together, we could change
A million lives for the better,
And maybe, if we prayed a little more, we would stop,
Living in fear from the storm
And everyone sings

What do we know? What do we know?
What do we know? What do we know?
What do we know? What do we know?
I'll tell you what they're all sayin' (X2)
....Tell you what they're all sayin'

Bridge
Every part is you, every part is me,
Raise your hands and sing,
Tell them we can be
Show them who you are,
Show them you can see,
Raise your hands and sing,
Tell them we are free

What do we know? What do we know?
What do we know? What do we know?
What do we know? What do we know?
I'll tell you what they're all sayin' (X3)

Every part is you, every part is me,
Raise your hands and sing,
Tell them we can be
Show them who you are,
Show them you can see,
Raise your hands and sing,
Tell them we are free

What do we know? What do we know?
What do we know? What do we know?
What do we know? What do we know?
I'll tell you what they're all sayin'
© 2007 Tooth & Nail Records

God Bless America

2011-09-09T21:46:00.001-07:00

InstaFriday

2011-09-09T16:44:00.000-07:00

FAIL!!! Three pics all week???? Well, at least it was something. I took this with my 49er hat so I could post on my Facebook page. It's football season. I hardly get to see my 9ers unless I go out to eat...I won't complain.

My daughter, Liz, started a new job and she feels like such a professional person - she has her own key, a parking space, her OWN office! She is a Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP) and got a job at Launch Preschool in Torrance. I didn't even think to get a picture of her "first day at school". What kind of mom am I anyway? If you zoom in you might be able to see her - the one on the left. So far she is feeling very good about this position. She hasn't met with students yet; that starts next week. So proud of her.

Driving home from the airport you see planes all over the place. DUH! Sometimes they seem like they are going to land on your head. One of these days I'll get a picture of that. I can't do it while I'm driving, but one of these days......

Well, I hope you do better than me and then link up with Jeannett and share your cellphone pics. Fun to see and meet others and their lives in photos.

NEVER FORGET

2011-09-03T00:19:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I think that the only memorial to the 9/11 attacks is in New York City, but just walking around the South Bay, I find a couple of memorials and realize that they are everywhere because it is one event I know we

WILL NEVER FORGET.

Hermosa Beach has this memorial. (I cheated...copied from article, but wanted to have at least one picture along with the article.

And Redondo Beach has this. Each side tells the time and the story of which plane crashed where, including the Pennsylvania story with "Let's Roll":

And then I have this memorial bracelet that I bought here. I rarely take it off, no matter what. I use it to remind me to continue praying for our military and all our rescuers and protectors who are out their putting their lives on the line. I'm sure they never dreamed they would ever be involved in such a huge event as this, but trust that each one is prepared as much as you can be no matter what. I thank you all for your service, your commitment to our country and your families who share you with us. God bless you and protect you.

I will be delivering packages that our church has put together to some of our firefighters/policemen in my neighborhood. I've never done this before, and I'm excited to go thank them in person.

What will you be doing, if anything, to remember our heroes on September 11th?

InstaFriday

2011-09-02T23:28:00.000-07:00

If it's Friday, it must be INSTAFRIDAY!!! I've missed it the last couple of weeks and I've missed doing other things, too. Too many distractions. Well, here we go. Linking with Jeannett with my cellphone pics. I don't have an iPhone, but you don't have to have one to join us here.

So our office is having a little problem...a long tail, wiggly nose, squeaky problem. This Snickers bar was supposed to be a small gift to a co-worker for a job well done. Well, it was left on Hilarie's desk with the card and she found this the next morning. We can't leave candy out, even in wrappers, because, apparently, mice, will eat through anything to get to anything. I have my snacks in a small plastic bin. That should keep them out.

If you're traveling the 405S and see this sign (actually, the one right near the freeway), you are about to come to my offramp. My friend, Noonie, knew she was close when she saw this car (that looks a lot like hers).

This is the church we go to and every Sunday they post a verse or saying. Pretty cool and lots of times, convicting. Good church, in case you are in Hermosa Beach on a Sunday. Look for us...we go to the 8am service on Sunday.

This netting was kind of cool. It was in the San Francisco airport. Then we went on the tram to the next terminal. Fun ride.

Sorry, it's not many this week. Hopefully, I'll get back into the groove of things again.

Sunny Sunday

2011-08-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

Monday Musings

2011-08-22T15:51:00.000-07:00

Healing is an ongoing journey.

Along the way you will find

hope,

joy,

laughter,

and even some value in your struggles.

Patsy Clairmont, Under His Wings

The word of the Lord is right and true;

he is faithful in all he does. Psalm 33:4

InstaFriday

2011-08-20T16:45:00.000-07:00

A gift from my daughter. Ha Ha

On our way home from Oregon (had to drive), always quite a sight even without all the snow, Mt. Shasta.

Danielle and Dan eating out of a pie tin, some pie we ought at the Downtown Marketplace while visiting...Blueberry and Strawberry/Rhubarb in one tin. In the other was a Marionberry and Dutch Apple. ALL were simply SCRUMPTIOUS.

Pretzel helping Danielle pack for their move.

One of Danielle's favorite places for breakfast. The couple who own it are so adorable. She calls everyone, sweetie or honey and her husband loves to brag about the Ducks. So cute.

Jackalope Lounge is another good place to eat.

Danielle and her kitty.

Actually on my way up to Eugene. Can't remember the mountain range. I'm terrible at that. Maybe someone else knows.

Well, this is just a taste of my week. I had several other pics to share, but I'll share those another time. Hope you had a great Friday and that your weekend is also fun.

This is my link with Jeannett's InstaFriday today. Finally getting to it. Join us and share your cellphone pics.

InstaFriday

2011-08-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Not many pics this time. This was a concert on the Redondo Beach Pier. The group is called "Smooth...sounds of Santana". Sorry about all the wind, but you get the idea of how they sounded. Lots of people dancing. And on the pier are sketches of seals and whales. Kind of cool. On the way back to the car I took the pic of the water under the pier's lights. People were fishing along the edges of the pier most of the time.

Our little neighbors behind our house. These are brothers and they belong to the boyfriend of one of the gals living in the apartment behind us. They are just too cute. They give me my pet fix. I don't have to take care of them. I get to play with them, though. :)

Link up with Jeannett and the rest of the gang. Lots of people sharing. So fun!

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-08-11T05:08:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite gifts - coasters! Yes, coasters! But these are special coasters. Each year for either Christmas or my birthday, I have received these special coasters with very cute pictures. Noonie and her family and the one of Shirley, me and Noonie celebrating our birthdays (S&me) and anniversary (N). We are a day apart and we started a tradition of going out for lunch and once we even brought our husbands to a very nice dinner. I was going to try and head back up to SLO for our traditional celebration, but didn't make it. And now Noonie is in Colorado! Maybe we can Skype. :) Anyway, these are just a favorite, fun gift and they get used all the time.

InstaFriday

2011-08-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

Decided we needed to take a walk. Dan doesn't walk unless he has a destination, so we decided to walk to a Mexican Restaurant down the road from us. On the way we saw...

This cool door with the glass inset. I didn't know if you could see it, but it really was pretty.

Got a Dish?

Yummy chips and salsa!

The cool water fountain...if you look at the next picture, you can see some frequent visitors to the restaurant. Such cute little guys.

On our way back home, I took a picture of the restaurant, Leo's. The food is good, and it's nice to have it close so we can go and get exercise at the same time, especially after the meal.

This is some growth along the sidewalk a few blocks from us. If Dan were any taller, he would have had to duck. Kind of cool. Like a tunnel.

And then some beautiful flowers and some bamboo along the way.

Forgot to take a picture of the 99cent store, but that's where we got dessert. Love ice cream sandwiches. Haven't had them in a long time. Shouldn't have them either, but every once in awhile, I still indulge in fun food.

Among the pipe and the roots, a little thing of beauty. This is on the side of our house.

And, yes, I do go to McD's once in awhile. I usually go for the Mango Smootie. Got hooked. Can't believe it!

Linking up with Jeannett. Take time to say a kind word to a couple of other InstaFriday people before you post. :)

Monday Musings

2011-08-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

I've always know that God cares for me and my life - EVERY part of my life, even the little things.

"When I am doing what God calls me to do, I am amazed at the ways He takes care of the details. Little things that I didn't even have time to pray about are taken care of by the God who cares. He even cares about those small things (such as an inexpensive party favor) that mean a lot to women." Dr. Deborah Newman, Then God Created Woman

The Lord watches over all who love him. Psalm 145:20 NIV

Remember

2011-07-30T13:59:00.000-07:00

Service and worship are inseparable. Worship is a service of praise and adoration, a recognition of priorities. The acts of worship, whether formal or informal, whether through singing hymns or doing our best, say that we know who is first, who's in charge, who's the boss. This is why we can't relegate worship to a once-a-week habit...Only by living in worship will we get away from promoting ourselves to head person. Cheryl Forbes

Read: Psalm 100

InstaFriday

2011-07-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

Fail for this week, but here are a few picks from a couple of things I did. Went to Target and was starving...decided to have lunch.

My view from the table I was sitting at...very nice day.

The car to the left of the green car was driven by a little old lady, who, when she was parking, got out of her car, moved the cart that was in front of the car so she could pull in all the way into her spot. She then took the cart....to the cart station. I figured she'd take it into the store. haha If you remember this, you remember my pet peeve about the carts and putting them back where they belong. Then as I left the store, as I was taking my cart to the station, a man offered to take it for me. :)

I went for a walk with some new friends (the three ahead of me, the one next to me and one right in front of me). We met at the Surfer Statue at Hermosa Pier and then walked an hour. We headed towards Manhattan Pier and turned around and headed back. It was nice, but my legs hurt the next couple of days. I need to get out more, obviously. The day was gorgeous...and it was 6:30 pm, still warm.

Now link up with Jeannett and share your week - or even your few pics.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-07-27T23:08:00.000-07:00

Do you remember this blog? Where Jeannett starts out, "I have a confession to make:

I’m terrible about daily Bible reading." And then she continues: "Absolutely terrible. I try, I really do. And then it falls by the wayside again. I have no excuse. ... but I do try to have reminders of God’s Word sprinkled throughout our house. Everyday reminders of His love. Encouragement that stems from Truth. Reliance on His goodness in all things. Not just on Sundays. Not tucked away in drawers to be pulled out for special occasions." Then she asks the question:

Do you try to display God’s words through your house too? How do you do it?

I wanted to do this sooner, but just got the time to take some pictures to share my treasured tokens and where I have my reminders of God's love and presence and Word.

This praying angel is a very special item. When Pastor Tim started at Grace Church eight years ago...REALLY? 8 YEARS? Wow! Well, when he started, at Christmas, he gave the staff special gifts. I thought it was so thoughtful of him and was so happy to get this sweet praying angel. It was always on my desk and now it is always somewhere in our house - usually on the entertainment center. I love the reminder that angels are around protecting us:

For He will give His angels charge concerning you, To guard you in all your ways. Psalm 91:11

I saw this in the Family Christian Bookstore in Torrance. The first thing I saw was the picture of the shells. Then I read the verse that went along with the word "Courage." It helped give me the courage to go out and meet people. After living in SLO for over 40 years, I was used to being around people and getting together with others for coffee, movies, etc. Now I'm becoming a hermit, sort of. But recently, I joined a Walking Moai Team and am meeting some other women in different stages of life. And we were involved in a Bible Study around the corner. I need to get back to that even if Dan can't go because of his job. And I'm doing Hula Praise...Hula danced to Christian music...sign language with hands AND feet. Great exercise!

I might have shared this before. Don't know if you can see the verse: O give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting. 1 Chronicles 16:34

Got this from my good friend, Noonie. Always a reminder to pray for her. I miss her and our times at the movies, Margie's breakfasts, Target runs, etc. Hope to visit her in Colorado Springs.

Wasn't even thinking about this word till I was able to find letters to spell something. I liked this word because it makes me think about taking a moment to stop and just rest. And I was going to add a card at the bottom of the "u" (which was actually an "n", but I added the ribbon to make it a "u") - "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him." Psalm 37:7 I actually have that card on the monitor - I'm looking at it now. :)

Just shared this little goody. The Lord's Prayer is always visible with this sitting on the entertainment center (opposite my praying angel). Love it! It was Dan's grandma's and we snagged it!

My daughter gave me this and it just reminds me to count my blessings everyday. I should start writing them down. :)

And I shared this, too. Just a very cute cross given to me by a former co-worker, Shelly. Miss that girl. So another thing to remind me to pray for someone. And a reminder that God is always blessing us wherever we make our home.

I'm so bad at memorization and thought this would help. It did for a little while. Now that I'm looking at it again, I need to at least try making use of these cards. I just love the picture.

I made this long ago - probably shared this, too, huh? Just a sweet reminder that "Jesus loves the little children..." We are God's children and He loves us so much!

And, of course, the old refrigerator that can hold a mess of things. A very cute magnet made from a jeans pocket with the reminder "When this you see, please pray for me." Thank you, Priscilla. Praying for you now.

And magnets with my daughters and husband with their names and meanings and a verse to go along with the meanings. Missionary magnets and bookmarks. A "FAITH" magnet. And others.

So, that's a glimpse of some of the ways I spread reminders of God's love and how I can always have Him in front of me everyday. I even have a couple of things at work. And I've finally been making a point of reading the Bible/having devotions when I first get up in the morning. That way I start out the day with Him instead of the computer and TV.

Thank You, Lord, that you are always with us wherever we go even if we don't acknowledge You at the moment. Thank You for Your patience in waiting for us with open arms. Thank You for Your care for us and for Your protection as we go through the day. I love You, Lord.

Monday Musings

2011-07-25T07:15:00.000-07:00

As we acknowledge God's control over the course of our daughters' life choices, event,s and experiences, we can open our hands and surrender the concerns and anxieties to which we cling. In exchange, we receive peace and the wisdom learned in letting go. Debra Evans, Kindred Hearts

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

InstaFriday

2011-07-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

Not much this week. Gotta start being more random. And I've really got to organize my pictures. I haven't done that in so long, I don't know what I've posted lately. :) So enjoy the few I've done here.

Liz and I went to the Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach. I haven't been to Laguna in ages. So artsy. We were just walking from our free parking and passing these interesting art shows. The Sawdust Festival and another festival were going on as well, so we felt blessed to find the free parking even if it was a little hike to the venue. But worth it!

This was inside the venue for the Pageant. We got there early enough to walk around and see what art there was to see. We actually found a couple of artists that had some pretty cool stuff. Liz especially liked this one photographer's pics of Paris and New York - a couple of her fave places.

Dan and I decided to go out for fish and went to Scotty's on the Strand mainly for the free parking. They have a very small lot and people going to the Comedy and Magic Club (Liz and I want to see Jay Leno sometime) try to park there, so they put cones in front of the spots. The host saw us and asked if we were heading into Scotty's and removed the cones so we could park. So nice. We sat in the dining area next to a window. So pretty and nice outside.

Just heading to Scotty's - Hermosa Beach might be a nice place to find a place. There's a trailer park right on the same street as the pier that would actually be kind of nice. Small, but right in the thick of the fun stuff.

This building has been going up for awhile. It's fun to see the crane up and running and the guys trusting their lives in this thing - can't believe how high it goes. Like Magic Mountain, I'll try it once and if I like it, I'll go again. If not, at least I can say I went on it once. Don't think I'll be trying this crane anytime soon since they probably wouldn't let non-workers aboard.

This is the swing that we've been storing for Liz and Gregg. It lost it's top part that shaded us when SLO had such a wind storm, it tore the material away. Still haven't fixed it, but we do have the attachment. Anyway, on nice, sunny days, it's nice to come out and sit on it and read. I decided to do my devotions out there one day and couldn't believe I hadn't thought of it before. We used a table umbrella to shade us when we had the kids over for lunch and ate outside. We really don't have a patio. It's a shared spot with our neighbors in the back. Their stairway goes up to their apartment. But it's roomy enough for what we did.

Now it's your turn to link up with Jeannett and InstaFriday. If you don't know what it is, check it out. Oh, and sorry for all the links, but we do have some fun places to go in the area...check them out if you have the time when you visit LA.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-07-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

For some reason this didn't post. Oh, well. Here it is now.

This is one token of many from Grandma Jeanne Pitts' collection of knick-knacks. When she went home to the Lord, Dan's cousin took jillions of pictures of all her items and had family members go to a website where she posted everything...and we had to pick out what we wanted. I scored a full china set, yellow creamer/sugar/salt & pepper set, yellow pitcher, and a few more items, including this note holder or whatever it is. There is an opening at the top large enough to put note paper, but I have the key to my Seth Thomas clock in there. Of course, the Lord's Prayer makes it all the more special.

Amazing God!

2011-07-20T22:32:00.000-07:00

Was going to write this last week, but never got to it. Still wanted to share how God's timing amazes me. I had my phone on silent...again...and missed three calls. One from Noonie. I was thinking about her and wrote her an email to catch her up with things. On her voicemail she was asking several questions, all of which I answered in the email BEFORE I even heard her VM.

Then a co-worker was talking about "Pageant of the Masters" in Laguna Beach. Never heard of it, but it sounded interesting and I wanted to take Liz. Well, a second message was from a friend from long ago whom I hadn't seen for years (until a memorial for her brother-in-law) and she was asking if I wanted tickets to....you guessed it...Pageant of the Masters. I didn't even talk to Liz about it yet. So, I'll get those and Liz and I are going on Monday.

The third was just a reminder about a bill I need to pay (if I can find it - oops). But, it amazes me, although it shouldn't, that He takes care of things in our lives and IS taking care of things in our lives ALL THE TIME. Things that we don't even really do much about, but He's working things out before we even start to think about them. He is so amazing...He's just that way. Reminded me of a devotional from Our Daily Bread many years ago.

"While reading John 3 to her little daughter, a mother paused after the 16th verse* and exclaimed, 'Don't you think that's wonderful, dear?' The child looked up in surprise and said, 'No!' Thinking she might have misunderstood, the mother repeated the question. Again the girl shook her head, saying, 'Mommy, it would be wonderful if it were anyone else, but really, it's just like God!"

* "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life."

InstaFriday

2011-07-16T12:20:00.000-07:00

I've missed a couple of weeks since we were gone and then I was sick. But I didn't seem to take as much as I hoped. Here's some fun stuff, though.

Date night. We went to the Pier in Redondo Beach and had fun walking around. Stopped at one of our first ice cream/yogurt places. I got a banana split again. Don't remember it being so big.

And I saw a friend and her husband end up at Home Depot on Date night...we end up at Pep Boys. :)

Random...random...random...was watching golf and these legends were being interviewed - Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I started watching golf with Dan and we are now watching the Open Championship (the British Open to us Americans). Anyway....

The two parakeet we birdsat while our neighbor went away for a couple of days. I used to have parakeets as pets when I was little. One we found in our yard - Pretty Pete. Two we bought - a green one, Peppy and a blue one, Tammy. Then Dan and I had Schöne (beautiful one in German) in Montana.

Dan using his new BBQ that was purchased by the kids for Christmas (I think). Was making quite a bit of stuff, so ended up having Liz & Gregg over for lunch. Afterwards we went to the Dodgers game and enjoyed fireworks after the game. Delicious and fun!!!

Oh, yeah. We sat in the All You Can Eat section. That's good - or bad - whichever way you want to look at it. Different place, so a different view this time. And we had a policeman right next to us all night (they switched out every so often, but there was always someone nearby), so we felt safe, although we would have felt safe even if they weren't there. And then the military brought out the huge flag. I took video of that and forgot to take a picture. Haven't even loaded the video. Sheesh!

I bought this little bag for Dodger games, but it didn't get here in time for the game on July 4th. Got it in time for July 7th - Andre Ethier Bobblehead night. Liz had to have a bobblehead and I decided to start a collection, although I probably will only get one once a year, so it won't grow too fast. We got to the Stadium way too early. It wasn't even open, so we found a Starbucks (and other places in one big building) to hang out for awhile. There was a Subway, the laundry facility, vending machines, and a "get cash" type place.

I hope to get better at doing this and more consistent. But, in the meantime, link up. It's your turn.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-07-14T06:55:00.000-07:00

This isn't MY actual Bible (mine's in storage, so I was glad to find this one) but it's one that I treasure because it was the very first Bible I ever owned. When I became a Christian in October 1970, I wrote to an organization that I wanted a Bible. I was supposed to get, The Way Bible, but they ran out. They sent these out and wrote a special note about growing in the Lord and praying for me - signed by "The Outreach Staff".

One of the verses that I really love is 1 Peter 5:7

"Cast all your anxiety on him for he cares for you."

I really liked how J.B. Phillips worded it:

"You can throw the whole weight of your anxieties on him for you are his personal concern."

We take on our own anxieties and they weigh us down so much to the point that we don't know what to do or where to go. Jesus took it all for us on the cross. He took the WHOLE weight because He loves us so much. He took everyone's sin on His shoulders, but it was personal for each of us. He did it for me, for you, for my husband, for each child...for each one of us whom He loves. How awesome is that? And He continues to take our burdens, if we throw them His way. So throw them to Him...He never misses.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-07-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

I treasured my time working with the Grace Church Youth Group (Student Ministries). I worked with them for almost 16 years before I stopped going because of the uncertainty of my time in San Luis Obispo. One of the special trips we took together was our Mexico Missions Trip. We went to Tijuana and surrounding areas to build homes for families through Amor Ministries. What a special time of working alongside the students, mixing up the plaster for the floors and the walls, putting up the chicken wire, TAR BABIES, sawing and nailing the walls together. My husband drove the bus for many of those years and loved it! He misses driving the students to their different activities and camping trips. Anyway, the Seniors of the group (and Juniors who became Seniors when school ended) would go on a special lunch "date" with Pastor Ken, and ONLY Ken!!! But...hehehe...he had way too many students and no bus driver one year (actually, I think Dan was busy or something and didn't make it back in time), and he had to get a couple of extra drivers. YAY!!! I got to drive a group and got to enjoy this special time with the Seniors. Then when we got home, I got this frame (and I think the pic) from the class. The students from Grace are incredible workers and helpers and they gave all their energy and time to help people they didn't even know. When we first started these trips, it was during Christmas vacation and we had large groups of students and adults take their vacation time to go to Mexico to build homes for families whose only home may have been one room and help up to eight people. These families were so, SO grateful for the time we took to build their new homes and it was such a special time to be able to say, "We're done. Here is your home." And we prayed and hugged and then had to leave. When we went back each year, sometimes we were able to take time to go back and visit the families we built for the year before or even years before. We even built a church.

If your church can do this, check out Amor Ministries and take a group of students. It actually has become a family thing now since a lot of the adults that went on this trip were parents of the students who went. And siblings came as helpers and kept coming when they became Youth students. Well, I've said enough. But I just wanted to say how special this trip is and how special the students and adults are who take the time to work alongside each other to help those who are in need. I may try and write about some of these trips if I can find my notes. Fun times!!!

Insta Friday

2011-07-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

I've missed the past two Fridays. I almost feel like posting everything I've done, but I'll not bore you totally. I'll bore you later with separate posts on some things. :) Here you go:

Helping Liz and Gregg move to Culver City (actually, their official address is Los Angeles since they live on the other side of the street/freeway). She started decorating as you can see. I was just resting and took these two pics figuring I'd use them here. :) So random.

One of my pet peeves (sort of). I remember when a friend, Debbi, shared about returning carts to the cart return area even when you didn't feel like it. It's a service to others and the racks are there for us. They do say "Please" and "Thank You". And just because you know the staff inside will come out to collect them, no matter where they're parked, it's just nice for them if they don't have to go all around the parking lot to find them, wasting time they could be spending serving us inside. Just because people are hired to pick up garbage or people volunteer to pick it up along the freeways, doesn't mean we just toss it out the window. Oh, wait! I guess it does! How hard is it to just have a bag for trash in the car and clean it out when you get home - or have your kids do it? Even with kids, I know it's hard to take extra steps and extra time, but it can happen if you really want to. Unload the groceries and then give the kids a ride to cart return. As they get older, have your kids do it. :) The other day, there was a woman, alone, who put the cart in a parking spot. Then I saw a couple pass by and they were several cars farther away and the wife (I assume) brought the cart all the way back to the cart return. Anyway, there you have it. I don't do this much. Kind of fun.

I couldn't stand it! I HAD to buy this clock and slinky. Got them at the Salvation Army Store for about $3 total. I have a slinky somewhere in storage, but it has a bend. This one is almost perfect. And I'm not sure where I'll put the clock. Maybe just on a shelf for fun.

Just one rose out of hundreds around our neighborhood. Smelled WONderful!

Coming home from Culver City after having lunch and finding the kids' new apartment (this was before we moved them), we came upon the freeway onramp. It was like an alley. So strange, and I felt a little claustrophobic.

This is a preview of something I'll share later, thanks to Jeannett. She spoke about being "saturated" by God's Word...she has reminders all over her house. As I read this, I started looking around the house and I thought I'd share my reminders. But that's later.

Well, it wasn't as many pictures as I thought. It's your turn. Link up with Insta Friday and share your week. Fun to see others sharing some fun pictures.

INSTAFRIDAY

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-07-01T11:05:00.000-07:00

This is very special, 1) It was put together by Judi Peet for our going away gathering, 2) there's a funny story behind the funny mustache on Dan, and 3) it has special notes of encouragement from the friends who gathered. It hangs in the middle of six other smaller frames/pics that are also treasures.

Okay, the story...All night long, Ken was reminding people to write a note of encouragement or just sign the matting around our picture. Then he decided to joke around and said something like, "If you want to put a mustache on Dan, go ahead." Well, since we were with adults and not the youth group (where Ken might not have said that - or if he did, he knew someone would), he figured he was safe in saying that. Well, of all people...STELLA!!!! She said Ken told people to do it and she figured she should listen. Can you imagine? The one person, someone who has cared for our little ones for ages, put that mustache on Dan? We couldn't stop laughing all night after we found out. And every time I look at this picture, I just have a warm feeling knowing that these are people who have loved us and cared for us and our kids in some way over the years. And, of course, a chuckle or two for the fun that we have had with them...and Stella's handiwork. :)

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-06-22T23:43:00.000-07:00

My friend, Noonie, gave this to my for one of my birthdays, I believe. You can barely read it, but it has the verse:

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good." 1 Chronicles 16:34

I treasure it because it is from a good friend, but also because the verse reminds me to give thanks everyday. God is good. And I like that I can change out the flowers when I feel the urge, whether it be for a season or maybe certain colors for a holiday. It's so cool. And it kind of looks good against the old door we have that's never been painted over.

Daughters and Milestones

2011-06-20T19:34:00.000-07:00

The following is from a page from my Focus on the Family flip calendar that I got from my friend, Lisa. Great tidbits each day from a few authors along with verses.

There are many exciting and wonderful things that happen during our daughters' lifetimes. As their mothers, we become the thankful witnesses to a host of milestones, growth steps, celebrations, achievements, and significant turning points. Wisdom leads us to understand we cannot control these events. Knowing our limitations means that we recognize God's handiwork in every moment, at each life stage. Debra Evans, Kindred Hearts

And the accompanying verse: "May your father and mother be glad; may she who gave you birth rejoice!" Proverbs 23:25 NIV

This was Saturday's "spiritual refreshment" and I just read it today (catching up). Yesterday, on Father's Day, I got to see Liz and Gregg's new apartment. They are moving in next weekend. Another milestone in their lives after Liz's graduation almost a month ago. I trust God with my children in their joys and their sorrows. As Liz is joyfully moving into a new place, closer to Gregg's work and closer to where she plans on working, I am also watching Danielle's sorrow at having to break off her engagement. It breaks my heart to see her sad and hurting. Even though we will be going up to visit her in a couple of weeks, I know there is nothing I can do to make it all better. She has to work her way through it and figure out what's next. She may be moving into a new place, too, which should be good. But, I don't know. Only God knows. And only He knows what's next, even if SHE doesn't. I can only pray and trust and give opinions/advice that she may ask for and may or may not follow. She is growing up (and, honestly, do we ever grow up completely) and learning that life is not always fun...which she knew. But you always hope your kids won't go through things like this, though you know that these trials help in their growth.

I can continue to pray that God will work in her life, let her know He's there and trust that whatever happens is His best because He loves her so much more than I do. AMEN!

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-06-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm actually focusing on the chair, but the porcelain dolls are very special, too. I've had them all my life and I can't even remember where they came from - I assume my parents. And the dresses they are wearing are dresses I wore when I was little. And my girls also wore them.

So, the chair is special. I used to have another chair that rocked and played music and I wish I still had that chair. There are a few things I was thinking about and wondered what ever happened to them. But this chair I used all the time and I still have it. Unbelievable! The one special thing about it is that my grandfather reupholstered it. I can't even remember what it looked like before this. This is all I remember. I'm glad my dolls are enjoying themselves in my chair...at Edna's. One day we'll bring it home with us - when we have room to show it off. :)

InstaFriday

2011-06-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm going on a trip to OR and knew I wouldn't be doing InstaFriday unless I did it early (for this Friday, 6/10). Not sure if I can have it post on Friday, but will try, otherwise, here it is. Hope the link works.

Here's Biscuit Fugler, all comfy under the blankets. She and Noonie stayed the night with us before they headed to Colorado. I'm sure going to miss my friend when I visit SLO. So many little outings, my favorite being the breakfasts when I came up to visit. Which explains the next few pictures.

This is where Dan, me and Noonie went to breakfast before she hit the road for Fullerton before heading out to Colorado. It's very quaint and has great service and food. Noonie said it reminded her of Splash Cafe as far as the smallness and crowdedness. It wasn't too crowded when we got there, but people did pour in as we ate. I can't believe I didn't take a picture of my Red Velvet Pancakes. I should have gone into a sugar coma after that. YUUUUUUUMMMMMMYYYYY!!! You probably can't see it, but the nametag on the waitress says "Edna". My mother-in-love, Edna, did used to work as a waitress I just found out. Does this look like her? :)

Remember this? The construction going on at my workplace? Well around the corner is....

...this. We can't use them yet until they are inspected. This is right across the hall from the storeroom where I work. Now I won't have to make those extra 3 steps.

They keep growing. Wait till it's blooming all the way - you won't even be able to see the leaves.

I used to have a small tupperware container for my Grape Nuts. I use GN in my yogurt. I don't know what happened to it, so I was trying to find something else to take it's place. Here's my Target purchase. Perfect!

Besides Target, Trader Joes, Kohl's, Bed Bath & Beyond, we also have this store. Kind of fun to go through and see some fun things and interesting things. If I had room to change my decor, I wonder what I would do.

This is just one little thing I couldn't pass up and I think I got it at Ross. In different parts of my small house, you will definitely see a Beach/summer theme. And if I lived in Montana again, I probably would still decorate this way.

I used to decoupage pictures onto crates that were cut to size and varnished (or painted). This is one of the few I actually kept for myself. I had given it to someone else, but when they moved they gave it back to me. I'm glad to have it...one of my favorites. I'll have to take a picture of the one I made for Dan and his garage.

Hard to get a picture in a car that's moving 65mph and hope the rays coming through the clouds show up. Not too bad. It was cool to see.

I look forward to seeing others share their InstaFriday pics. So many people joining us...it's hard to keep up with them all.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-06-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

It Sure Makes a Difference When You Know Somebody Cares
(the motto for YBGR since 1957 - sound somewhat familiar, Grace Youth?)

Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) is a place for kids who are emotionally disturbed. I worked there for about three years (quit when I had Elizabeth to be a stay-at-home mom). This is the place I credit with giving me a love for kids to the point that I started working with youth at Grace Church. I miss these students, but was able to see a few of them (who are now in their 30s) when we went to the 50th Anniversary Celebration a few years ago. One of them was shocked that I would still have his picture that he drew for me when he was a teenager. He was there with his wife and kids. Wow!

Below is a picture with the founders of YBGR. Mrs. Orth was standing in for her husband who had passed away back in 1963. It was great to also see Franklin Robbie and Bob McFarlane and they are both still involved with the Ranch, of course. Franklin wrote “A Legacy of Caring - The First Fifty Years at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch,″ which was published to kick off the 50th anniversary celebration. If you want some inspiration, read this book about a man and a vision and a call from God. When I worked there, most of the staff were Christian - leaders, houseparents, admin, etc. We went to church at the Chapel on campus. It was fun to be there and to be a part of the lives of the kids there - and they were a blessing to me.

Well, the reason I wrote this for Treasured Token Thursday was for a special token I received while at the Celebration. A tradition was started after I left, letting each person who was leaving the Ranch choose a stone as a memorial of the time they spent at YBGR and how God had blessed them while there. I put it in a frame with the following explanation:

Samuel used stones as a memorial when God’s people wanted to remember His goodness and faithfulness. 1 Samuel 7:12 says that when God enabled the Israelites to defeat the Philistines, the Prophet Samuel “took a stone and…named it Ebenezer, saying, ‘Thus far has the Lord helped us.’” Joshua also used stones to help God’s people remember His goodness. After wandering in the wilderness for 40 years, the Israelites experienced the power of God to roll back the waters of the Jordan River, enabling them to cross over and take possession of the Promised Land. Joshua then commanded them to build a memorial of stones as a public testimony of what God had done for them…stones that would remind them to keep on praising Him. At the 50th Anniversary, the staff from the past was given a memorial stone as a way to remember our time at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch and what God had done for us. They wanted those of us who left after they started this tradition to also have a stone. Each decade prayed with the Chaplain who served during their era. Chaplain Wendall Wilson was serving when I was there … the 80s.

I Surrender All

2011-06-06T22:06:00.000-07:00

Dan and I felt led to support several students who have sent us support letters in the past couple of months. We usually lose the letters or just can't support at the time, but we have some money we can send and decided to help these students we have known for so long. And as I was thinking about them and re-reading their letters and seeing what they were all going to be doing in the next few months, I thought of this song. They are leaving their comfort zones and going to places most likely unfamiliar to them. They are giving up their luxuries to take the Gospel to others. Daniel said: I plan to ... be the "beautiful...feet...who bring(s) good news of good things!" (Rom. 10:15)

These notes about the authors of the hymn were found on cyberhymnal.org.

Words: Judson W. Van DeVenter, 1896:

The song was written while I was conducting a meeting at East Palestine, Ohio, in the home of George Sebring (founder of the Sebring Campmeeting Bible Conference in Sebring, Ohio, and later developer of the town of Sebring, Florida). For some time, I had struggled between developing my talents in the field of art and going into full-time evangelistic work. At last the pivotal hour of my life came, and I surrendered all. A new day was ushered into my life. I became an evangelist and discovered down deep in my soul a talent hitherto unknown to me. God had hidden a song in my heart, and touching a tender chord, He caused me to sing.

Music: Winfield S. Weeden, 1896 Weeden published a number of books of religious music, but this song must have been one of his favorites: its title was on his tombstone.

Pray with me for these students: Josie, Julianna, Cameron, Daniel, Evelyn and Gretchen. Pray for strength each day, for God to guide their words and their steps as they minister to other students and other people of different cultures. Pray for their teams to stay safe and healthy. But most of all pray that the Gospel is heard and accepted and that God is glorified. I'm excited for these students and am glad to be able to have a part in their ministries, even if just through prayer. I can't wait to hear how God uses them and works in their different areas.

Insta Friday

2011-06-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

Why would anyone go to San Bernardino, just to go (unless you're like Dan who lived there and wanted to see his old neighborhood). Not this time.

We went up to check out a Honda CRV...and we bought it! It needs new tires and a windshield, but we figured we could handle those things. A couple of other things we'd like to do, too, but nothing major. I shared this pic already, but I had to show you again how this car fits me so well. I love how God gives us the desires of our hearts. Everyday I drive it, I say, "Thank You, Lord, for this car. Help us take care of it so it will be with us a long time."

Our hydrangea are growing and so are the lilies (?). I think that's what they are. How bad is that - I don't even know what I have in front of my house. The lilies' plant (the leaves) look horrible sometimes, but the flowers look beautiful as they grow. Nice while it lasts.

Next door are these palm trees. When the wind blows really hard the leaves from the trees end up on our lawn. At least no one has gotten hurt by them as far as I know.

Just to take pics with my phone, I took a picture of my little home. Small, but fits us, sort of. We still have about half our stuff in storage in SLO, but right now this is good for us. So, you can kind of see the hydrangea and lily bushes to the left. When the hydrangea is in full bloom, it's really a sight. Of course, you'll see that in the future. :)

This is one of my favorite coffee cups. I use it and another one with a Woody Wagon and beach scene everyday just about. They are bigger than a regular size coffee cup and I love it. Wouldn't you know, there had to be Tigger on at least one of my cups. I also have glass with Tigger.

And I just had to take this pic last night as the sun was setting. Dan and I were checking out the Honda to figure out a couple of things we are going to do on it, and I saw the clouds and the sun and ran back into the house to get my phone. Redondo Beach is a nice little place to live. :)

I have this little shelf with a few little fun things. Can you tell who I root for? A silly little shelf, but that's me. If LA gets a football team, what am I going to do? Probably root for them, but the 49ers are my team for life, no matter what. Lakers have been my team since 1964 - no jumping off the bandwagon when times were bad. As for baseball, I have usually followed players. When I first started rooting for teams, I started with the Reds. I was a catcher in fast pitch softball and Johnny Bench (oooohhhh, Johnny Bench) was my favorite player. Then I liked other players along the way, but I guess Dodgers fever has caught on and I am now a full-fledged Dodgers fan. Even though they lost both times we went to games, I still want to continue going and supporting them, even with all the controversy going on around them. That's what a true fan does. Right?

This was just a random pic. As I was stopped at the light on my way to work, I quickly took this shot. They've been building this side of the building for months. I should have taken a picture when it was just framing, before the walls went up. Unbelievable how tall that crane is.

I'll try to be more deliberate in picture taking. I love that Jeannett has this fun little Friday task. Maybe I'll figure out my camera phone the more I use it. I figured out how to upload, so that's good. I hope to take better pics, too. Time for you to link up now.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-06-02T06:50:00.000-07:00

...and the very first token I should have shared is The Bible. This past year, especially, has been a blessing because I am reading through the Bible for the first time - every word. I haven't been consistent, much to my sadness, but I'm doing it. My next step is to begin again, but this time I'm going to take a book from the Bible and actually study it, so going through again will take much longer. I might even take a subject and study that. But just reading and really studying are totally different things and I'm excited to go deeper. I do my Bible studies and things like that, but to really delve in myself will be a challenge. I'm easily distracted and I'm not sure how I'm going to do this. Any suggestions?

I have not departed from the commands of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread. Job 23:12

And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe. 1 Thess. 2:13

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: 1 John 2:5

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ” Matthew 4:4

For no word from God will ever fail.” Luke 1:37

He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” Luke 11:28

As for God, his way is perfect: The LORD’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him. Psalm 18:30

In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? Psalm 56:4

The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” Isaiah 40:8

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Psalm 119:105

Timing is Everything

2011-05-30T12:06:00.000-07:00

For several decades, George Burns and Gracie Allen entertained audiences with their unique humor. With George, as the straight man and Gracie as the dizzy but lovable wife, they moved from vaudeville to radio to television - and into the hearts of millions.

For this husband and wife comedy team, everything depended on depending on each other. His questions set up her rapid-fire explanations. Her concluding one-liners needed his deadpan responses. The ability to reply at the right time - and in the appropriate manner - made their comedy sparkle.

There's a mystique about timing. When it's right, it's fabulous. When it's wrong, it's a disaster. It takes listening to the inner self to make it work. Not just in comedy, but in all of life.

We speak of the right timing to get married, to start a business, to have children, to change jobs, to risk a new venture, even to take a vacation. Some of us sense this timing intuitively; others plan it. Either way, we know that timing makes a difference. It affects our outlook and success, so sometimes we stop and say, "It's not the right time yet." And even if they don't understand, people make room for a delayed decision.

Oddly, we forge to give the same room to God.

Maybe it's because we know He's capable of doing anything, but we get impatient waiting for God. We forget that He waits for the right timing, too. In fact, He knows the perfect timing, even though it looks illogical to us. His ways are not our ways, and neither are His timetables our timetables.

But when we wait for his timing, nothing can compare with its abiding impact on us.

Judith Couchman
Passage: Ecclesiastes 3:1-14 Verse: Ecclesiastes 3:1

Insta Friday

2011-05-27T10:09:00.000-07:00

I love this day of blogging. Thanks to Jeannett, I'm using my camera phone more often, even if some of the pictures aren't that great. Someday I'll get a better phone. But this week was a fun week. I took a lot of pics, but realized they are mostly of Liz and graduation. :)

When we visit San Luis Obispo, we try to pick up our favorite chips - Taco Works!!!! We can't buy them in SoCal, so we bring them home, mail a couple to Danielle and give a couple to Liz and Gregg (although they visit SLO, so they can buy their own). I should see if they'll deliver.

The lei and balloons I bought for Liz for her graduation. I had to take the day off work (darn! hehe) to spend the day with her and family and friends who joined us.

Before the ceremony.

The procession...you can barely see it, but the banner is for her school - Communicative Disorders.

The Stage. This is the one with her at the right of the stage coming next.

These are some of her friends, I believe, who were in her major with her. They all made it and now, who knows what their next step will be. Liz and Gregg are moving closer to us and then she'll start interviewing for a Speech Pathology position, I think.

We could see the "Thank You" from a distance, but weren't sure who she was thanking. I was thinking his parents or us, but Dan hit it on the head. Who else, but the one who had to live with her and face all her stressful moments, tears, anxiety. Thanks, Gregg, for supporting her and loving her, especially when she was at her lowest. You helped her get through these past years and we are grateful to have a son-in-law who cares for our daughter as much as you do. You earned her diploma. :)

The Cheesecake Factory is becoming a regular party place for us it seems. This is the cake they brought for Liz with a personal congratulations for her graduation. I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE SHE IS A GRADUATE WITH A MASTER OF ARTS DEGREE. Dan toasted her and said "She is now the most educated person in our family." That is so true!

To round out the day, Liz and Gregg picked us up and we went to the Comedy and Magic Club. Such a fun place to go. Liz and I have gone several times. This is the second time for Tom Wilson (Back to the Future). And there are usually a few acts before the headliners. I would like to see Brad Garrett, but his ad does say it's R-rated, adult-themed (not appropriate for sensitive individuals), so I really don't think I'll be seeing him anytime soon. Although sometimes there is at least one person before a headliner who will use language or explicit material for his act. Anyway, we've seen Gary Shandling, and Liz and I decided we HAVE to go see Jay Leno. He's there every Sunday. It's his home away from NBC...a place to continue doing his stand-up. It doesn't hold a lot of people, so it's always packed out. And the food is very good and the service is great. So fun that it's just "around the corner" from us in Hermosa.

Part of Tom's act that we saw.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwnqUmmJ-zE

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-05-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

A token is an object of value.

For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession. Deuteronomy 7:6

I am treasured, not only on Thursdays, but every day. How awesome is that???!!!

InstaFriday again

2011-05-20T18:48:00.000-07:00

Looks like I like flowers. These are our hydrangea by our front door. I thought I had another pic. You'll see these periodically since I take pictures as they bloom. Little buds, to this and so on. So beautiful when in full bloom.

I had the flu this weekend and hardly got out of the bedroom, much less the bed. When I finally got up and went out to the living room, these were on my video cabinet. Dan got them to cheer me up. Aren't they beautiful ... and isn't he a gem?

On our trip to SLO. Malibu...my favorite way to travel to SLO. You can have the 101, but I love traveling alongside the ocean. I wish I could have gotten out and taken better pics, but since this is from our phones, I figured, I'll do what I can when I can.

And we usually stop at the Malibu Starbucks for a snack or because I just want my mocha or cinnamon dolce latte. Even though I have to get it nonfat, decaf, they still taste great to me and make me smile. I also enjoy the small lemon scones (there's my sugar) or lemon pound cake. Of course, those take care of calories I really don't need, but sometimes it's worth it. And Dan, who's not a coffee drinker, can get a smoothie.

Then we arrived at my mother-in-law's house. Her flowers are blooming, too. I love her wall of flowers when they bloom each year. Always something different and beautiful.

And last, but not least...the reason we are in SLO. We are going to a dear friend's daughter's wedding and I said I would make cookies for her reception. Well, after all the "not finding what I need for this cookie" and "what else can I do with brownie mix", I found a recipe on the back of a brownie mix box for "Easy Brownies & Creamy Sandwich Cookies." So each cookie sheet I made came out different until the end when I FINALLY got it right. The perfect size, the perfect consistency, and it came off the sheet easily. Goodness! It's just brownie mix made into cookies and you put vanilla frosting on one cookie, top it with another cookie and you have a sandwich. Maybe that will be my lunch. haha Anyway, at least I can feel I did my part for Lindsey's reception and it actually turned out okay. Can't wait till tomorrow.

Insta Friday

2011-05-13T12:42:00.000-07:00

I always knew the women's bathroom was a hazardous area, but I didn't know we needed hard hats! This is going on at work. I think they are adding more bathrooms to the other side of the wall.

And, yes, I can be dorkish or whatever you want to name it...this is the tile in the women's bathroom at work. It just looked like it needed to be photographed.

This was a special gift handed out at church on Mother's Day. As we stood up to be recognized, grammar school kids brought these around and handed them to us. Then they sang a special blessing song to the tune of Edelweiss.

And here is where we went for Mother's Day. It opened up at 9am, but we got there about 10:30. The hostess said it was a madhouse even before they opened. We didn't mind waiting, but we didn't have to wait long since we wanted to eat outside. Even though it was overcast, it was still pretty nice. They had he heaters on and when the sun did come out, they put up the umbrellas.

Here's what's left of our dessert. I forgot to take pics of it BEFORE we devoured it. It was actually low carb strawberry cheesecake, and still very tasty. I had steak and eggs for my main meal and Dan had salmon. All delish!

The valets were hopping, that's for sure. I don't think they had time to sit down...bring a car in, bring a car out. And there were men asking to find their cars just so they could get their coats or wife's sweater. I wonder how good the tips are. I could do this.

Just a quick shot of the marina right by us as we are eating. Overcast, but not too cold.

These flowers were right next to our table. So pretty!

This is why I want my daughter's camera. Check her pics out. You can at least see who we saw. We went for a Mother's Day outing the night before MD...Newsboys, Kutless, Disciple. What a fun concert! It went by too fast, though, but it was so cool. My pic below is from my seat, right next to the catwalk. Best seats we ever had for any of the concerts we've gone to.

As Jeannett says, it's your turn. Join us with your cell phone pics. At least this is one thing I'm sort of keeping up with. Always have my phone with me. Maybe I'll learn to take better pics at concerts, especially when I forget my camera. Have a good Friday.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-05-11T22:49:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite cereal bowl and juice cup. On my last week at work, my workmates took me out to lunch at Presto Pasta (I believe the week they were getting ready to close). They gave me this as a gift for my new digs in Redondo Beach. They were so perfect for my kitchen actually. Our house is very tiny, but the kitchen is a nice size. The cabinets are plastic-ish and blue. Ignore the dishes inside. It's kind of cute.

Anyway, the gift is special to me because it was from special ladies I worked with for years. Some I'd known for years through ministry at church. Some I only knew a short time, but am glad to have gotten to know them at work. Some have moved away like me, but we keep in touch with Facebook (love that we can keep up with each others' lives). They are all beautiful women of God and I learned something different from each one,. I'm thankful to have them as friends, co-workers and sisters n Christ. And using these items just reminds me to pray for them. Love you all. I would name you, but I don't think I remember who exactly was there when I left since we had some turnovers, but everyone I worked with was special and fun. Miss you all.

Study, rather than Read

2011-05-08T21:43:00.000-07:00

If your faith is half-hearted, perhaps it's because you are not compelled by the truth. Anyone can read the Bible. It's the studying of it that will get you excited and prepared to share the truth with those around you.

You can sit at the feet of marvelous and inspiring teachers, but when you put the time in yourselves, you will hear Him and never forget it. He will speak to you. You underline it! Mine the richness of God's Word each day.

"Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true." Acts 17:11 (NIV, 1984)

(Just a few of my notes from church this morning. Thanks, Pastor Zac)

InstaFriday snapshots

2011-05-06T13:46:00.000-07:00

I didn't take many shots this week, apparently.

I thought I was doing more. Here are my couple of shots.

These....

...replaced these. I love poached eggs.

We took a trip to San Fernando Valley and on the way back stopped at a lookout point for Topanga Canyon. It was a might ward that day, but very pretty, actually. Oh, and we wouldn't visit SFV on a whim. We were actually going up to look at a car. The most promising, but need some work. Still looking.

And these are the first blooms for our hydrangeas. Can't wait to see those colors again.

Okay. This wasn't from a phone camera, but I HAD to post it. My daughter goes to tons of celebrity events to get autographs and pictures. Well, she heard from a fellow autograph hound that Tom Selleck was going to be at an event, very low key, and she should get there to catch him before he goes in. She naturally called her momma who is a HUGE fan of this adorable, handsome, tall man and so I went. Took 5 minutes or so. He got out of his car, saw the SAG escort, looked towards us and another couple and came right over. Signed a couple of photos (he is now the first on my Magnum, P.I. cast shot) and then took pictures with us. I think I'm going to have to blow this one up and hang it on my bedroom wall. :)

Treasured Tokens Thursday...on Friday AGAIN

2011-05-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

This cross was given to me when I was leaving Grace Church and my job at the church. I worked with Shelly and love her so much. And what was funny, when she started, we thought we didn't know each other. It's funny how God brings people into your life, they go onto other things and they come back into your life again.

When Shelly started, we introduced ourselves. We talked about growing up in SLO and about living on Jaycee Drive. Me: WHAT!!!! I lived four doors from Quintana School. Shelly: I was three doors! YOU'RE ROBBIN BAKER!!!!!! You used to babysit me!!! Me: Oh, my gosh! You're kidding! You're Shelly! Shelly: Remember when the bookcase fell on me (or something like that)! Me: Wow!

It was fun working with her and sharing life together as I was moving and as she was going through her own struggles. She will always have a special place in my life and I hope to see her again sometime. In the meantime, this cross is right by the door, so when I see it, I can remember to pray for her and her family. Thank you, Lord, for bringing Shelly back into my life, if only for a short time again.

Releasing Our Children

2011-04-30T07:57:00.000-07:00

"Moses' mother loved him enough to release him into the sovereign care of Jehovah. She had done all she knew to do for as long as she could for her baby, and then she had to trust God to do His part."

Patsy Clairmont, Under His Wings
(someday I'm going to get this book...love her quotes)

InstaFriday snapshots

2011-04-29T23:13:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm attempting to link up with Jeannett and her InstaFriday. Wish I had an IPhone, but I'm finally figuring out my phone some and can at least send my pics to Picasa and share here.

This week we were driving around and saw this ... Beaches...one of the first restaurants we found in Manhattan Beach. It was a nice place with good food and reasonable prices. We've been there a few times. It is now being remodeled and is going to be a totally different restaurant. I'm actually pretty sad about that.

We drove to the beach earlier this week when it was windy and cold. The beach was still a beautiful sight.

Tonight I really felt like having fish and chips. So we decided to head to Hermosa Beach Pier and see what they had there. We ended up at Hennessey's Tavern. Then we walked on the pier. If you look closely to the right of the sign, you can see the rooftop of the restaurant. We sat to the right facing the beach. I took the sunset picture from our seats. Then we walked on the pier. Like the Manhattan Beach Pier that has AVP plaques of champions as you walk the pier, Hermosa Pier has 'Surfers Walk of Fame' plaques. I've actually heard of some of the surfers.

I was sitting on my couch the other day and this caught my eye. For some reason I thought it would be a cool picture.

I bought the candle holder for my daughter, thinking she might want to use it for her wedding with rainbow candles. She said she had enough stuff and didn't need anymore. So, I decided to keep it and bought some candles at aunaturelle. Ordered three sets (rainbow colors) with three different scents. And I only light one or two at a time for a little while. So nice and smells wonderful.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-04-29T08:09:00.000-07:00

I really need a reminder. :)

Today's tokens are people. I treasure these three so much!

I didn't know Dan growing up. We met at Grace Church when he moved here from Yuba City. We hit it off right away and became good friends. We were in Sounds of Grace and Youth Group, then on to the College/Career Group. We had a great group of friends we hung out with and we grew closer. And the rest, as they say, is history. We've been married over 32 years ... and counting. :)

My firstborn. She just turned 28 two days ago!!!! One thing that I treasure about this girl is her love and care for people. It was evident even as a baby. My dad was sick and I heard he was in the hospital. We traveled up there (2 days in a Honda Civic with a 2-month old) and were there till my dad passed away. When we got home (we were living in Montana at the time), we got back into our routine. I was blessed I didn't have to work. But there were days I just wanted to sit down and cry. Elizabeth would crawl over to me and just place her head on my lap as if to say, "It's okay, momma. I'm here." She is there for her friends just like she has been there for me when I've had my own sad/crying times. I love you, Liz. (You'll always be Elizabeth to me).

Now to my youngest, who is now 26!!!! She was a handful, but a fun handful. I didn't always handle our battles very well, but, Praise God, she has grown into a beautiful and still fun and funny young woman. She always made me laugh with her random thoughts and sayings. She also scared me as she seemed to be heading down a path I didn't want her to head. I thank God that He protected her and that she is now a more responsible person and figuring out that life is hard, but you just keep going the best you can. I pray for her all the time, especially that she would seek God more in her decision-making. She is getting married and will have an instant family, but she seems very well suited for Lily, who will be there, hopefully, often. The baby picture was taken by Jeanne Thwaites Photogaphy in SLO. I don't remember Danielle being in a dress since those photos....Oh, yeah, Liz's wedding. And she will be in another beautiful dress in October in her own wedding.

I had to add this. We were in OR on her birthday and we went to Red Robin for lunch and she got a sundae for her birthday. She still makes me laugh.

The wedding pictures were taken by Judi Peet. Thanks, friend.

Who said she could turn 28 years old?

2011-04-27T15:10:00.000-07:00

You can see Liz's story and some pictures from here. I loaded more pictures (which I noticed have some duplicates) on FB since it was so much easier. Enjoy!

Being Spontaneous

2011-04-23T22:41:00.000-07:00

This was all last weekend (I didn't get time to post till now) Our weekend starts on Thursday at 1:00pm when I get off work. We decided to go to the Dodgers game.

Thursday, April 14 vs. St. Louis Cardinals - 7:10 p.m.
Fans at Thursday's game will receive Purple and Gold LA Caps as the Dodgers pay tribute to the Lakers. NBA Hall of Famers Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Bill Sharman, who also played in the Dodgers' minor league system in the 1950s, will throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Long-time Lakers anthem singer and good luck charm Jeffrey Osborne will perform the National Anthem and God Bless America.

LOVE my hat and my new shirt (Alyssa Milano fashion). It was a fun time even though they lost.

Andre Ethier is up at bat.

On Friday, we met with some missionary friends, Lloyd and Pamela, who were here for his dad's memorial service. We met at the Blackboard Bistro in Seal Beach (a few blocks from where they were staying). I enjoyed French toast, scrambled eggs, 2 slices of bacon and 2 pieces of turkey sausage.

Then on our way to San Pedro to do car shopping, we stopped at 7Eleven to get a soda. We were handed flyers for “free Friday” entrance to the Long Beach Grand Prix. We had never gone before, so we decided to be spontaneous. Ooooo....so, we went in and enjoyed a time of car racing…even though it was only practice, qualifying and celebrity driven races, it was still fun to sit and watch and hear these cars racing around. DEFINITELY needed the earplugs. They helped so much and my ears didn’t feel like they were going to burst.

I loved this car: Disabled Veterans of America. SEMPER FI

And here are a couple of videos...quick as they are...of Danica Patrick and Marco Andretti (grandson of Mario). I don't know how everyone finished since we were only there on Friday, but it was just fun to be there. And then there were the celebrities. The cars went around so fast, I could only get a couple of cars with my little digital. I clicked about 200 times and got these.

Brian Austin Green (Desperate Housewives)

Djimon Hounsou (Amistad)

Mike Sullivan (owner of Toyota of Hollywood and Santa Monica)

So, Saturday ended up being a relaxing day after the two active days. We didn’t get the chance to look at cars, but we need to do that soon. I’m housebound and I’m getting Spring fever/cabin fever. I can only walk and bike so far and if I need to buy something, I can’t carry it all the way home. Well, I guess I could learn. But we are trying to make our weekends more fun than work/laziness, so it was fun to get out of the house and do some fun and spontaneous stuff. I will definitely start planning some fun things for the future (any suggestions?).

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-04-21T07:01:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to go to the Dodgers game last Thursday, I must have forgotten to do a TTT. Oops! Well, today I'm sharing something special I received from a student (who is now married) I was mentoring at Grace Church. Kayla is a very special young lady. I never dreamed I would be a part of her life other than just seeing her at Youth Group, but God had other plans.

We were preparing for our Youth trip to Mexico and Pastor Ken told the students to find someone to mentor them. I wasn't sure I could be a mentor, or meet with someone one-on-one, so I prayed, "If You want me to mentor a student, I will, but someone needs to approach me." Pretty selfish, huh?

Well, one Sunday, while walking downstairs to Youth Group, Kayla "happened" to be walking down with me. She said she had a question. "I've been thinking about someone to mentor me and I really want you to do that." WHAT? Of course, I coudln't say no. One, she's just such a sweetheart and so cute, but then, I did promise God I would do it if someone asked me.

So we met every week, went to Mexico, and then we came home. And to my surprise, I asked Kayla, "Do you want to keep meeting? We don't have to quit just because we're done with our trip." And she said yes. So through her High School years, we met every week. We had some great times of studying different books of the Bible, different subjects, and just praying and talking together. I was sad to end our time together when she graduated and went to college in Santa Barbara, but we keep in touch and I continue to watch her grow into a beautiful woman of God who is married and trying to be the Godly wife she is meant to be, learning to love and respect her husband more each day, learning to cook, and just loving being married and a "mom" to their dog, Beckett. :)

All this to say, that the treasured token this week is a cute little container that she decorated with the word "believe" and wrote a sweet little note on the bottom. I love this girl, and I continue to pray for her and Andrew. I love how God answers our selfish prayers. Remind me never to do that again - but just step out in faith and do what I know He would want me to do and "believe" that I can do whatever task He gives me because He is with me and will strengthen me and give me the tools I need to finish.

Favorite Devotional of the Week

2011-04-13T20:22:00.000-07:00

I think I'll try something new...as I read devotionals, I'll post my favorite of the week. And if I have a couple of favorites, well, I'll post one this week and one next week. So what will happen is, I will probably have a whole bunch saved up and share them in the next few weeks/months. Anyway, I use the Women's Devotional Bible 2 (NIV) and there are devotionals for the week/weekend throughout. I also read Our Daily Bread sometimes and have found some pretty cool ones that I've already posted (or at least "shared" from their site). I have a couple of other devotionals I like to read, too, so there's no shortage of great reading.

But I finally decided to go through the Bible in a year, although, I decided I would go through it and go at my pace (of course, part of my pace is skipping a day or more, unfortunately). But I was determined to go through the whole Bible for once. I realized I'd never done this because I've been reading things I don't ever recall reading before. So here we go:

"City Lights" by Cynthia Culp Allen

A week after we moved to Los Angeles from northern California, I stepped into the backyard one evening for some time alone, Looking up at the night sky, I couldn't see even one star!

"I know the stars are up there, " I said. "This is the same sky we looked at last week in northern California. The stars are there, the lights of the city are just obscuring their light."

This realization made me think of the huge city with it's many distractions: streets lined with shops and businesses; fast-food eateries and restaurants; theaters; schools; and flashing neon lights everywhere urging people to stop at every one.

Life everywhere, not just in Los Angeles, is full of distractions that block out God. Yes, he is still there - always the same, unchanging, steadfast. But we are unaware of his presence because of everything else competing for our attention.

Still searching the sky for stars, I prayed, "Lord, you have brought us to this place through your clear direction. Please keep us committed to daily quiet times with you. Help us to practice your presence in the midst of the city's distractions. Let us shine with your light here in this darkness of unbelief."

Just as I finished my prayer I saw one tiny star blinking way up in the yellow sky.

Lord, we lived in L.A. for over a year now and our lives are still bright with you. Thank you for being faithful. The city's alluring distractions don't satisfy as you do. Keep lighting our days with your truth.

Key verse: Micah 7:8 Passage: Micah 7:1-11

And if you know my situation, this is exactly what has happened with us. We lived in San Luis Obispo and I figured we would live there for the rest of our lives. You can read what happened here and here and here. Okay, just read from July 2008 on.... But this devotional caught my eye because Cynthia did the same thing. It was encouraging. We've been here two years now. Time flies. :)

Favorite Family Photo

2011-04-11T14:33:00.000-07:00

(Amber, Liz, Gregg, Danielle, me, Dan)

This is one of my favorite photos where the four of us are actually in a pic together. My girls are grown and gone, but we still get together now and then. My youngest lives in OR and this is in when she came to visit. Her best friend (our "adopted" daughter) also came to visit and our son-in-law is also this family pic (doesn't happen often enough). The "kids" surprised Dad with a surprise lunch and dessert in Huntington Beach. This is taken after we had dessert - Dad having his favorite dessert...tiramisu. Great time with family.

Linking with Jeannett

2011-04-08T12:54:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't have an IPhone, but I do have pics on my MyTouch phone. Got it on Ebay and I like it so much better than my previous phone. Though, one day I may have to get the IPhone for whatever reason. Anyway, here are a couple of pics from the phone.

Dan had just picked me up from work and we decided to head to the beach. We stopped at Dockweiler Beach. It was a cool day, but there were still a few brave souls out there. There were a couple of surfers, too. This is part of his bike ride home on the Strand. Not a bad place to bike, if you ask me.

Can you see it in the distance? Even through the ugly brown smog, we could still see Mt. Baldy all covered in snow. Taking this in the car, though, may not have been the best choice, but we can't stop in the middle of the 405.

I have been looking for shoes to go with my Mother of the Bride dress and I found these. What do you think? If the guys can wear Converse, why can't I wear these? My dress is platinum (Danielle wanted us in gray or silver and we found hers and my dress in Drain, OR at this cute little bridal store). I found these shoes at Macy's. I didn't buy them. Soooo tempted, though.

And finally....he was not amused. Sorry he's blurry.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-04-07T23:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm late for this, but it's still Thursday for now.

My co-worker and Friend, Paula gave us these for Christmas a few years ago. And I'm sorry to say I don't remember what was in it. Candy? Tea? Well, I love it. It's small, but it holds my Stevia/Splenda packs really well and it's so cute. I'm sad that when I washed it, the glitter started to come off. Duh! But I do miss working with Paula. She came to work in the office a couple of years after I began working there. She is the Graphic Artist and she taught me so much from the beginning. When I started working at Grace, I didn't know much about the computer...just what I taught myself at home. I learned a few things from a couple of people who passed through the doors through the 13 years I worked there. Kari helped me with Publisher and Paula helped me with the different programs we used for the graphics for the worship folder/bulletin. It was good to know these things so she could take time off to be with her family. If no one else knew that part of her job, she would not have been able to take the time off that she has been able to take. Cross training is a good thing. :) And now her daughter works there...I'm jealous. Working at Grace was the best job I ever had and I miss it still.

I love Paula and her family. I've had the pleasure and privilege to go to her house for youth group activities, DWAPs (Dessert with a Purpose - Missions activity), and just to watch some Lakers games (which always became a time of anxiety for Tom, Daniel and me - haha - when the Lakers did silly stuff to almost lose the game). She is very hospitable. Loves her family. And her kids are great! I miss this family, but I'm glad to have this little porcelain jar to remind me of them and to pray for them.

Asking for Prayer for long time friends

2011-03-31T23:10:00.000-07:00

This link will take you to the blog of a friend's daughter who is battling liver cancer. Some of you may know the Isbells...their daughter, Erin, is the one fighting this illness. I have known Erin forever and am sad to hear of the battle she is going through. Since it is now out in the open, I just wanted to ask those of you who read my blog or are FB friends, to be praying for her and her family. And if you feel led, please help them financially as they do not have insurance and are mounting up the bills.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-03-30T21:54:00.000-07:00

I shared this story in 2008, but I just had to add this horse to my treasures. I don't even know where the horse came from. I assume from my parents. Can you see a difference in the pictures? Where I'm holding my horsie, he still has a tail and a mane. I assumed that the hair would grow back if I cut it. So sad that it didn't. I felt so bad, that I taped string to the little bit of tail that was left so the he wouldn't feel naked. I was 4...what else would I do?

Of course, the other treasure is the fact that I was chosen by my parents. My parents, Doris and Ray Baker, who are long gone from this earth. I was blessed to have my dad at my wedding. I'm sad my mom wasn't there and sad that neither would meet their grandchildren. But God blessed me with them for a time and I love them so much for their love and their discipline, and even though I wasn't raised in a Christian household, I did get some spiritual teaching that helped me find my way to God and Jesus, where I could find my own faith. Thank You, Lord, for how You guide our lives and bring us to You at the right time.

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-03-23T22:36:00.000-07:00

This was made by a friend, Denene, who was my Bible Study leader several years ago. She made these for all of us if I remember correctly. I love how she personalized it with the verse on singing (I love singing in choirs, in small groups, with my friend, Noonie, when we used to sing duets together). In the corners, she put some little symbol that pertained to each person, too. For me, it was camping, music, the Bible, and not sure what the heart symbolized - maybe loving. And the flowers and the fence were so beautiful, too. I just loved how she tried to make each tile so personal for each person in the group, especially with a little touch of something she knew about us. She made it with love, with her own hands and with care. Thanks, Denene. I still have it hanging in my room (used to be in my office). If I do get a job where I can hang things, it will go with me again.

In the Light

2011-03-20T18:43:00.000-07:00

Why do people reject or refuse to come to the light?

They love their sin. They take pleasure in their sin and are happy in the dark.

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. John 3:19-20

But there are consequences to be had. He has given Jesus the authority to judge those who reject the light.

The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness... Romans 1:18

Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son...And he has given him authority to judge because he is the Son of Man. John 5:22, 27

There will be a time where EVERYone will acknowledge Him, though they some are in darkness now.

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth...Philippians 2:9-10

In Jesus, we see God. We see what God is like, what His character is, what He thinks, what His will is when we look at Jesus.

(From today's sermon, Pastor Zac Nazarian, Hope Chapel Church, Hermosa Beach)
In the Light by DCTalk In the Light lyrics (if you want to follow)

Treasured Tokens Thursday

2011-03-16T22:12:00.000-07:00

Summer's hanging mason jars are so fun. I liked the handle with the crystals and bought it not knowing what I was going to do with it. I found a piece of ribbon with butterflies and just used that to hang it in our window. I change out the flowers for each season change - or mood change. These are just a few ways I used it so far.

Thanks, Summer, for helping me give my little pad a little bit of color and fun.

God Gave the Song

2011-03-14T00:19:00.000-07:00

Some of the words to this song are on the left side of my blog. Ever since I heard it and sang it in choir, I have loved it. There are a lot of verses that talk about singing and songs, but I only pulled a few out to share.

Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Psalm 100:2

Praise the LORD. Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of his faithful people. Psalm 149:1

...be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord... Ephesians 5:18b-19

Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. James 5:13b

Therefore I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing the praises of your name. 2 Samuel 22:50

Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 1 Chronicles 16:9

I can't play an instrument (does a kazoo count?), but I do have a voice, I have a hymnal and the internet and I can make a joyful noise unto the Lord. Make it a part of your day and sing a song of praise to the Lord.

For since I found the source of music, I just can't help it, God gave the song.

Treasured Tokens Thursday on Friday

2011-03-11T19:34:00.000-08:00

Sorry. Still not used to having a theme day, but at least I remember eventually. I'll try to be more consistent ON Thursdays.

I received these little trinkets from Linda from my Bible Study two years ago before I moved from San Luis Obispo. I thought it was such a beautiful gift...a way to keep a piece of the Central Coast with me all the time. I love Sand Dollars and shells of all kinds. I have a fishbowl full of them. And the glass is so pretty - sorry you can't see the real beauty that it is. Everytime I see this, I am thankful to have grown up in SLO and lived there for so many years. I miss it so much, but you go where the Lord leads and make the best of where you're at and with what you have.

Just recently, I've been thinking about my gifts and talents and realized that I'm not utilizing them like I should. I make excuses about not having another car or I'm too tired or I ache too much. Jesus walked everywhere. Even when He was tired, he was out there and THEN found a place to rest. And He knew more pain than I could ever imagine. What a sloth I am! I have the time and there are many ministries I can check out at our church. My other problem is taking on too much. So, I will look at the ministries, see what catches my eye and then make that call to see how to get involved.

I love having special things that remind me of how blessed I am to have so many friends and to live in special places. And to remind me that wherever I am, He can use me. The Lord is good...all the time.

Alzheimer's Walk

2011-03-09T22:08:00.000-08:00

My daughter decided to do the Walk to end Alzheimer's in November in Huntington Beach. I figured I would donate to her team and then thought it over. I keep wanting to do walks for causes because walking is what I'm supposed to be doing - doctor's orders. I have had a few people diagnosed with Alzheimer's. A dear senior saint friend of mine died last year who had Alzheimer's and my son-in-law's grandfather died from complications not too long ago. So, I decided to walk with her and her husband and a couple of her friends. It will hopefully motivate me to walk more now so I'm in shape in November.

If you would like to help our team, you can join us on the team (we'd love to have you), donate, let others know or just pray for us as we take part in this event. We would appreciate any kind of help you can give. And thanks.

Prayer

2011-03-07T23:38:00.000-08:00

I know not by what method rare,

But this I know,

God answers prayer.

I know not when He sends the word

That tells me fervent prayer is heard;

I know it cometh soon or late,

My part is to pray and wait.

I know not if the blessing sought

Will come in just the guise I thought,

I leave all care with Him above

Whose Will is always one of love.

(don't know who wrote this)

So thankful to know that God hears my prayers and already knows what's going to happen. My part is to keep praying, not only for myself, but for my brothers and sisters in Christ and leave the results to Him. He knows what's going on in our lives and is there every step of the way.

What tools do you use when you pray for someone? A prayer list? A journal? Cards? I'm trying to make a point of praying for people everyday, using my Facebook as a guide. The faces along the left side of my page gives me names and faces of friends/family to pray for. I'm also trying to keep my promise to pray for someone when they ask me to pray for them, not just say I'm praying for them. Keep me accountable, okay?

So who are you praying for? Or what do you need prayer for?