Today, I'm just going to talk to you. I'm not going to get out my thesaurus, I'm not going to spend hours searching for the best adjectives, alliteration and phrasing....I'm just going to type with my fingers the words that are circulating in my mind almost in the fashion of a face-to-face conversation, albeit a one-sided conversation.
When I started Becoming Me about 18-months-ago I implemented a few self-imposed rules.
Rule # 1 - It would consist mostly of devotional posts
Rule #2 - Only serious and well written material would be published
Rule #3 - Each post, even the non devotional ones would include a Scripture verse.
Rule #4 - I would not obsess about growing my readership
Rule #5 - My posts would showcase my imperfections and be honest, sometimes even raw, so that whoever stopped by to read would know that through Christ there is hope for all human weaknesses and struggles.
Rule #6 - I would personally respond to every comment left on my blog
Rule #7 - I would update my blog regularly as well as visit and comment on other blogs often.
There were other rules too. Some I kept, some I modified, and others I threw out. But when began this journey I felt that I needed hard and fast guidelines. I tend to live my life that way. I like rules, they make me feel safe. And I like to follow rules, because doing so makes me feel as if I'm a good person and pleasing to others. If there was a course called "People Pleasing 101" not only could I teach it, but I would have a special segment about rules.
In an early post I labeled my self a "recovering perfectionist and people pleaser." Extreme rule making and following can certainly be a symptom of such. And there is another to this...one that does not seem to fit.
When I become overwhelmed by to-do lists, projects, rules, and such, I tend to shut down and let it all slide away. I've done that with Becoming Me recently.
When I found out that we would have to move once again (our 7th major move in 10 years), I became weary. Not only were we having to move, we were having to move because my husband's job had been discontinued. (I think that's what is called a "double whammy"). And let's make it a triple whammy...he was having a difficult time securing a new job. Even though I honestly was not fretting about the situation because I knew with all my heart that God would make it good in time, I was annoyed with the situation. Moving yearly can be taxing both physically and emotionally. The thought of packing boxes, leaving friends, driving across country, unpacking boxes, making new friends, etc. invoked frustration. No, that's too mild...it made me angry. Really angry. Not with God. Not with my husband, but with life, with the situation.
Although writing has always packed therapeutic value, I had trouble thinking, writing, even praying. I felt overloaded. I'm still feeling a wee bit overloaded.
I'm not weeping. I'm not feeling depressed. I'm not even enraged. I'm just tired and mildly drained.
The good news is that my husband has found another job. We will be moving again...this time to a small town in Ohio. And the move will be soon. The Professor accepted the job offer on Monday, drove to Ohio on Tuesday to find a place to live, signed a lease on Wednesday, and then returned home last night. And guess what? We're moving in two weeks!
I promise you, I'm not complaining...I'm actually quite excited about the move...mildly daunted, but mostly excited. I know that we are not moving alone and that this is just a new chapter in the story God is writing for us. That does make my heart joyful.
I'm not going to give up on writing. But I am going to ease up on some of my self made rules...I may not post something new for another few weeks or even months...or I may be inspired and write something new tomorrow. But that's OK.
(I do promise to reinstate Blog of the Week sometime in the Fall)
Showing posts with label Bloggy Business. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bloggy Business. Show all posts
Friday, July 17, 2009
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
I Hope I'm Not Being Too Forward...
I'm going to ask a favor from you. If you are familiar with my Guilt-Free Reading Promise, you know I don't ask for many favors. And, you also know that you are under no obligation to comply with my request.
Here is request. If a particular Becoming Me post blesses you, would you please share it with others? I added this great little button to the bottom of each post that allows readers to quickly and easily share blog posts via e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and other venues. There is also a Technorati button on the bottom of my left sidebar. You can add Becoming Me as a Technorati favorite with just a few clicks.
Again, no pressure.
Blessings, Angela
Here is request. If a particular Becoming Me post blesses you, would you please share it with others? I added this great little button to the bottom of each post that allows readers to quickly and easily share blog posts via e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and other venues. There is also a Technorati button on the bottom of my left sidebar. You can add Becoming Me as a Technorati favorite with just a few clicks.
Again, no pressure.
Blessings, Angela
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Fizzle
Fasten your seat belts, keep your hands inside the trolley car, and hang on tight. I am about to break a cardinal rule of blogging. If you are a reader of Leo Babuata's blog, Write to Done and filed to memory the Nov.12, 2008 blog post 10 Mistakes That Could Be Killing Your Blog, you will note that I will be committing blog sin # 3: "Writing About Infrequent Posting."
In case you are wondering about the predecessor to menace #3, it is "Infrequent Posting."
Yep. Guilty as charged.
And while I do respect the advice from Leo Babuata (he's a fabulous professional writer/blogger and knows his stuff), I am choosing not to apply it to Becoming Me at this stage of the game. Why? Because in the growing world of blogging, I reside in the sprawling community of mommy bloggers. And, I think, rest, work, play, and pray in a smaller neighborhood within that mommy blogging community. And in this neighborhood, we know and care about one another.
If my real life neighbor went missing for several weeks, I would feel concern. And then if she reappeared and seemed a bit different than her usual chipper self, my apprehensions may rise.
So what has been keeping me from blogging? Several factors, but please know I am not closing down this blog.
1) Some Personal Chaos: Nothing terribly traumatic in the long scheme of life, but enough to keep me busy. Due to budget cuts, The Professor's job contract has not been renewed. This means we will be moving again (our fifth major move in a five-year period).
To where will we be moving you ask? We have no clue. But God does, and that is a beautiful and bankable truth. At this point, The Professor is on the job market looking for either another college level teaching position or a job in the field of political science.
I will also be going back on the job market and have taken on a few freelance projects. Revamping my resume, job searching, and freelance work has required time that I previously devoted to writing blog posts.
2) Technical Issues: I have been plagued with various technical difficulties from blog posts to Internet connections. Not fun.
3) Too Many Commitments: I'll keep this one simple. I say yes more than I say no.
4) Brain Fizzle: I bet you didn't know that Brain Fizzle is a technical term. OK, it's not. But I have a definition for it anyway.
Brain Fizzle is a cousin of Writer's Block. Unlike its cousin, Brain Fizzle victims easily find topic ideas and the words necessary to discuss them. However, those with brain fizzle think of so many items at one time that the ideas stop bubbling and fizzle out.
Those are my dilemmas. But like I wrote above, I'm not planning to bow out of blogging. I will post when I can. I also have some great guest posts coming up for you next week.
In case you are wondering about the predecessor to menace #3, it is "Infrequent Posting."
Yep. Guilty as charged.
And while I do respect the advice from Leo Babuata (he's a fabulous professional writer/blogger and knows his stuff), I am choosing not to apply it to Becoming Me at this stage of the game. Why? Because in the growing world of blogging, I reside in the sprawling community of mommy bloggers. And, I think, rest, work, play, and pray in a smaller neighborhood within that mommy blogging community. And in this neighborhood, we know and care about one another.
If my real life neighbor went missing for several weeks, I would feel concern. And then if she reappeared and seemed a bit different than her usual chipper self, my apprehensions may rise.
So what has been keeping me from blogging? Several factors, but please know I am not closing down this blog.
1) Some Personal Chaos: Nothing terribly traumatic in the long scheme of life, but enough to keep me busy. Due to budget cuts, The Professor's job contract has not been renewed. This means we will be moving again (our fifth major move in a five-year period).
To where will we be moving you ask? We have no clue. But God does, and that is a beautiful and bankable truth. At this point, The Professor is on the job market looking for either another college level teaching position or a job in the field of political science.
I will also be going back on the job market and have taken on a few freelance projects. Revamping my resume, job searching, and freelance work has required time that I previously devoted to writing blog posts.
2) Technical Issues: I have been plagued with various technical difficulties from blog posts to Internet connections. Not fun.
3) Too Many Commitments: I'll keep this one simple. I say yes more than I say no.
4) Brain Fizzle: I bet you didn't know that Brain Fizzle is a technical term. OK, it's not. But I have a definition for it anyway.
Brain Fizzle is a cousin of Writer's Block. Unlike its cousin, Brain Fizzle victims easily find topic ideas and the words necessary to discuss them. However, those with brain fizzle think of so many items at one time that the ideas stop bubbling and fizzle out.
Those are my dilemmas. But like I wrote above, I'm not planning to bow out of blogging. I will post when I can. I also have some great guest posts coming up for you next week.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Votes and More Technical Woes--But at Least You Can Read This
Our Internet Service Provider (ISP) is having some connection issues, which means that I too am having some technical issues. Since I'm not skilled in techno speak, the best explanation I have to offer is that there is a problem with a line and until the ISP can fix that line, I won't have service at home. so not only will I not be able to post much, but I also will not be able to read blogs or respond quicly to any e-mails.
Currently, I'm sitting at a local coffee shop drinking a lowfat decaf Turtle Mocha (love in a cup), listening to Tiffany sing "I Think We Are Alone Now," and attempting to answer e-mails, etc. Since I am the type who likes to write in quiet atmospheres, I won't be posting much until my service at home is restored. My ISP said that the problem may not be resolved for several days...no, I'm not joking.
On a happy note, Amanda from I Am Mommy informed me that Becoming Me has been nominated for an "Awesomest Blog Award." Voting takes place on Monday May 11 from 12:01am - 10:30pm. I feel funny asking people to vote for me...but I would like to encourage you to check out Amanda's blog and the contest. It is a great way to support and encourage other bloggers. While you are there on the 11th, if you truly feel that reading Becoming Me has blessed you, then I would be honored to receive your vote.
Currently, I'm sitting at a local coffee shop drinking a lowfat decaf Turtle Mocha (love in a cup), listening to Tiffany sing "I Think We Are Alone Now," and attempting to answer e-mails, etc. Since I am the type who likes to write in quiet atmospheres, I won't be posting much until my service at home is restored. My ISP said that the problem may not be resolved for several days...no, I'm not joking.
On a happy note, Amanda from I Am Mommy informed me that Becoming Me has been nominated for an "Awesomest Blog Award." Voting takes place on Monday May 11 from 12:01am - 10:30pm. I feel funny asking people to vote for me...but I would like to encourage you to check out Amanda's blog and the contest. It is a great way to support and encourage other bloggers. While you are there on the 11th, if you truly feel that reading Becoming Me has blessed you, then I would be honored to receive your vote.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Unscheduled
Due to some technical woes...I'm taking an unscheduled...and hopefully very short blog break. I have so much to share, but my computer programs seem to be fighting with one another. So until they can play nicely ir until I can figure out another solution, I will be taking a breather. I hope to be posting again without issues by Wednesday May, 6. I will be at FaithLifts that day as well.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Contest for Moms
Five Minutes for Mom is hosting a Fabulous contest with incredible give prizes. Want to win one? The fun starts today, so click here to find out more.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
WFMW - Updated Web Browsers
I am not a forceful person. I do have opinions and when asked to share them, I am quite comfortable disseminating information about subject matters such as postpartum mood disorders, raising a strong-willed daughter who thinks a striped turtleneck sweater coordinates perfectly with heart-printed capri pants, and other hot topics like surviving motherhood, transparency, and increasing intimacy with Christ. Those are passions of mine.
I even know a thing or two about baking cupcakes, entertaining a five-year-old in the grocery store, teaching toddlers the second verse to “Ring-Around-The-Rosey,” and growing blog readership...and if you ask, I'll share. I don't like to keep secrets, that tends to go against the grain of transparency that I just confessed being so passionate about.
On the flip side of the coin, here are some subjects that you will not find me writing about.
- Cars
- How to potty-train a boy (even though I have a male child)
- HTML code
- Cake decorating tips
- How to cut paper in a straight line with or without a ruler
- How to be funny without being quirky
- Technical Issues such as Updating Your Internet Browser
Except for today. Today, me and my technophobia self are going to discuss the importance of updating your Internet Browser. I have two reasons for reaching outside my comfort zone.
I care about you and do not want your computer to contact any nasty viruses.
-
I am selfish and want to win back my readers who have threatened to give up on me because they can no longer read my posts since my bloggy makeover last week.
Did I mention I'm big on transparency?
Web surfing with an outdated browser is comparable to trying to place a Frogger or Pitfall! cartridge made for Atari into your Wii. New technology and old technology do not always play well together. At first, it may not seem that using an out-of-date browser is that bad of an idea. After all, it does take a few minutes to update and although it isn't as complicated as open-heart surgery, it can be a slight inconvenience. But the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience.
Updating your browser is one of the best ways to protect your computer from some very intelligent hackers, spammers, malware distributors, and other evildoers in the realm of cyberspace. And that is worth five minutes of waiting and button pushing...take it from someone who thought her time was too valuable to waste on updates. Being without my computer for a few weeks reformed my attitude.
If you would like more information about updating your browser or about which browsers offer you the best protection, please check out the links below. The current buzz for PC users is that Google Chrome offers the best protection and that Internet Explorer and Netscape are riskier options. I know even less about MAC, but have heard that Apple Safari works well. And for more great tips, please visit Kristen at We Are That Family.
Helpful Links about Web Browsers
Five Best Web Browsers by LifeHacker
Most Hacker Resistant Web Browser
An Exhaustive Look at Web Browsers by LifeHacker
How to Update Your Browser
Google Chrome
Mozilla Firefox
Internet Explorer 8
MAC - Apple Safari
MAC Compatible Browsers
Saturday, April 4, 2009
A Bloglift-Better than Botox
There is a phenomenon spreading throughout facebook known as the top five. For you non-facebookers, the top five is an application that allows one to select her top five choices of almost anything: movies, food, super heroes, presidents, shades of fingernail polish, and other important stuff.
In honor of my blog makeover, I created a top five list just for you.
The Top Five Best Duos of All Time:
Perhaps the last one belongs in another top five, but for the past year, Candace from Mommy Designs Blogs has given me three blog makeovers on her way to become a professional designer. Guess what? She has arrived. Actually, she went pro several months ago...but never fired me as a client. Even though I'm a tad picky.
If you are considering a new look, I highly recommend Candace. She's affordable, PATIENT, fun, sweet-natured, and has a great eye for design. She's also a mommy of three, whose youngest is still hanging out inside her tummy for the next 50 days or so.
I hope you enjoy the new design. I love it. Isn't the extra large sidebar amazing? It really cuts clutter. I also have my blog roll button links on the very bottom of the page, so if you are looking for other great blogs, please don't forget to scroll down for those resources. I've also updated the About section to include more information about me and some pictures of my sweet family. There are some new tabs as well.
And, what do you think about me getting brave and putting my full name out there for the world to see? I'll be honest, I'm a bit nervous about it. But, I've been told by some talented writing professionals that if I want to be recognized as a serious writer, I should get my name out there.
So, if you are looking for a blog makeover, please keep Mommy Designs Blogs in mind.
Now I have a question for you. Would you like to win a button for your blog designed by Mommy Designs Blogs? It can be button to promote your blog, business, Etsy shop, meme, special prayer request....anything you'd like. If you answered yes to that question please leave me a comment below and I'll put your name in a drawing. The winner will be announced on April 8th.
If you do not need a button, comment anyway and just let me know you do not need one, or win it to surprise a friend.
On another note, thank you all for your kind words of encouragement yesterday. They really touched my heart.
Finally, if you are interested in reading some heartfelt posts about Easter, please come back tomorrow and the rest of the week during the Because of the Cross Blog Tour.
In honor of my blog makeover, I created a top five list just for you.
The Top Five Best Duos of All Time:
- Peanut butter and chocolate
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Coffee and chocolate
- Bread and butter
- Becoming Me and Mommy Designs Blogs
Perhaps the last one belongs in another top five, but for the past year, Candace from Mommy Designs Blogs has given me three blog makeovers on her way to become a professional designer. Guess what? She has arrived. Actually, she went pro several months ago...but never fired me as a client. Even though I'm a tad picky.
If you are considering a new look, I highly recommend Candace. She's affordable, PATIENT, fun, sweet-natured, and has a great eye for design. She's also a mommy of three, whose youngest is still hanging out inside her tummy for the next 50 days or so.
I hope you enjoy the new design. I love it. Isn't the extra large sidebar amazing? It really cuts clutter. I also have my blog roll button links on the very bottom of the page, so if you are looking for other great blogs, please don't forget to scroll down for those resources. I've also updated the About section to include more information about me and some pictures of my sweet family. There are some new tabs as well.
And, what do you think about me getting brave and putting my full name out there for the world to see? I'll be honest, I'm a bit nervous about it. But, I've been told by some talented writing professionals that if I want to be recognized as a serious writer, I should get my name out there.
So, if you are looking for a blog makeover, please keep Mommy Designs Blogs in mind.
Now I have a question for you. Would you like to win a button for your blog designed by Mommy Designs Blogs? It can be button to promote your blog, business, Etsy shop, meme, special prayer request....anything you'd like. If you answered yes to that question please leave me a comment below and I'll put your name in a drawing. The winner will be announced on April 8th.
If you do not need a button, comment anyway and just let me know you do not need one, or win it to surprise a friend.
On another note, thank you all for your kind words of encouragement yesterday. They really touched my heart.
Finally, if you are interested in reading some heartfelt posts about Easter, please come back tomorrow and the rest of the week during the Because of the Cross Blog Tour.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Two Announcements
Thanks to all of you who have prayed regarding the She Speaks Conference writing contest that I entered. I was not awarded the scholarship, but was tremendously blessed by the process.
Please click here to meet the winners.
Also...be sure to come back here tomorrow...because I have a surprise for you. I'll be unveiling a brand new look for Becoming Me!
Please click here to meet the winners.
Also...be sure to come back here tomorrow...because I have a surprise for you. I'll be unveiling a brand new look for Becoming Me!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Blog of the Week and Some News
When I was in the third grade, I wrote my first poem. I called it Secrets and Friends.
"Secrets are secrets. Friends are friends. Friends don't tell secrets that other friends tell them."
I no longer write poetry. I am not surprised that you are not surprised.
But I do still have friends. With a few select friends, I'll share some secrets. But to be honest, I do not have many secrets. But I do have lots of dreams, hopes, fears, struggles, triumphs, and prayers that I share with many friends. One such friend is Karen Hossink and she writes the wonderful blog Surviving Motherhood. She and I have never met in real life. I read her blog and she reads mine. But what makes me consider her my friend is not the fact that she knows some personal details about me. I consider her a friend because she is someone who has taken time to encourage me, pray for me, laugh with me, and offer me moral support. She is someone who cares about me...and other moms. In fact, in her words, she blogs to "encourage and uplift women in their roles as mom and daughter of the King." She also adds with a grin, "And sometimes to blow off steam."
If you do not already know her, then I encourage you to visit her blog and read her books. Here is a review I wrote a few months ago about her first book, Confessions of an Irritable Mother.
I would also like to use this post to bring up something a tad personal. It does contain a prayer request.
For the next 21 days I will be doing a fast modled from the book of Daniel. I may share more about that as time continues...and I may not...I write that, because I do not want this to become a pride issue. I want to keep my motives pure. I am fasting as a spiritual discipline and as a time to grow closer to Christ. So prayers that my heart will be guarded would be so appreciated.
In addition to adhering to a diet of mostly fruits, vegetables, and a few types of whole grains and oats (and very small portions), I will be fasting from the time I sped social networking. I am only going to allow myself one hour a day for this luxury. For me that includes Twitter, Facebook, and Blog Reading/Commenting. I will still write and post my devotional style peices, as the time I spend writing those posts is a time of fellowship between me and God.
Blessings to you for a beautiful Sabbath.
Friday, March 20, 2009
A Little Soiree-UBP 2009 (Updated)
Welcome to Becoming Me. My Blogger ID is MrsNaz, but many already know me as Angela. If you are participating in the UBP hosted by 5 Minutes 4 Mom, I thank you for stopping by and hope that you will make yourselves at home.
If you are a regular visitor here, welcome back. I have enjoyed sharing my heart with you over the past year. Your prayers, comments, and encouragement make me thankful that I began communicating my personal journey with Christ in such a public forum. I now consider so many of you true friends.
There are many types of parties. I'm a soirée kind of girl, so if this were a real life event, I'd invite you into my home to share some decadent chocolate desserts, a glass of red wine or sparkling cider, and good conversation...probably a little icebreaker as well, because I love cultivating friendships and community.
Since this is not a live party, I'll just show you a picture or two of my favorite dessert bites. This way we can drool together...in the name of community.
The icebreaker portion of a gathering is when attendees can better get to know one another. So, in that spirit, here is a little introduction to Becoming Me and why I blog.
Each person accumulates stories from life experiences. Some stories tell of blistering, bitter, frightening seasons when emotional fires, droughts, or floods brought devastation to a heart. Other stories derive from adrenaline enhancing joy and blissful happiness from seasons decorated with wonderment and adventure. And then there are stories that may not carry emotion but still garner enough weight to impact life. The creator of the universe is both the author of and lead character in my life story. With every experience I learn more about who I am in Christ...more about becoming me...the mature me God designed to be completed in Heaven.
You can read more about me and my family here. Or, you can visit my other blog here. The nutshell version is this: I'm a wife of a college professor and the mother of two preschoolers. Pumpkindoodle is my 5 year-old daughter and Pickle (who may be given a new moniker soon) is my 2 year-old son.
I'm flawed and forgiven. Northern bred and raised, but currently live in the South. I'm quirky, talkative, and attentive; and whenever I take spiritual gift tests, I score highest on mercy and encouragement. I'm also a recovering perfectionist, and a lover of books, sunshine, waterfalls, coffee and cupcakes.
Some of the stories I share here on Becoming Me are about my experiences as a mother...the beauty and the heartache. Last year, I wrote very candidly about my experiences with Postpartum Mood Disorder, which is often referred to as Postpartum Depressions (PPD). But not all of my posts are related to motherhood, like this one. I have written about being a wife, being insecure, and being misunderstood. My goal is to write with a healthy dose of transparency, as I believe it key to spiritual growth.
The time I spend writing posts for Becoming Me is also a time when I fellowship with God. The stories that matter most to me are the ones I write while praying and researching scripture. Because, even though this blog has me in the title...it's really about Him.
So, now, it is your turn to share. Please tell me something about yourself and blog in the comment section.And those of you "regulars" tell me why you keep reading..I could use a pick-me-up after this last week. Also, please do come again. If you, like me, love celebrating the resurrection of our King each Easter Sunday, please consider participating in the Because of the Cross blog tour starting April 5.
Blessings to you,
Angela
PS--I almost forgot to add that there are fabulous prizes being offered at the UBP. My favorites would be as follows:
#1 - Artisan Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer offered by Moms Who Think. I am a mom, and I think this prize would make me very, very happy.
#2 - A $100 gift card from Pedal Cars and Retro--Little Pickle turns 2 next month---what a delight this would be. This prize is offered by 5 Minutes 4 Mom and it is a choice of a $100 gift card from either the store above or A Rocking Horse to Love.
#3 - Any of the $50 gift Cards to Target--and I already know what I want to buy there. Swim suits for the kids. They have these great ones that include swim shirts! As far as I could tel, there are three generous sites offering these gift cards and they are: Shoot Me Now , Agoosa, and Beginner Baby Blog.
#4 - A tile Picture Necklace from Simply Precious
If I do not win my top four choices, I'd be thrilled to pieces with any of the following numbers: 5, 8, 16, 48, 49, 50, 53, 56, 60,81, 82, 77, 79, 65, 68, 69, 75, 87, 89, 91, 93, 111, 112, 113, 114, 118, 121, 123, 125.
To view the entire prize list, click here. You do not need to be a blogger to be eligible to win!!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Bloggy Business and Some Cuteness
I normally don't do this on Becoming Me, but I decided to run a form of a PSA-Blog Style....and since I'm doing things I don't normally do, I'm going to throw in a funny family story... caution...it's a blowing in the wind my friends....blowing in the wind.
First, a blogging PSA:
Earlier this week, I noticed that my blog roll numbers dropped from 199 to 189...in one hour. Since that was during the time I posted a prayer request about baby Peter, I was pretty certain that Becoming Me did not develop a case of blogger B.O. I also, didn't get upset...honest. I now view that feature as a public service....it's totally free publicity for whomever is interested. Thinking about it in this manner frees my OCD leaning self from much angst.
So, I'm good. But, I thought it odd...ten people missing at once.
I did some research (I twittered about it) and learned from a friend, who heard from a friend, who heard from a friend...who heard from a friend, that Blogger has been marking "followers" as anonymous....all that means is that the picture goes away. Apparently, it has happened before.
I then checked my list and noticed that 24 of the blogs I followed had been marked anonymous as well. So, unwittingly, I was "dumping" people all week. I made the corrections...I'm very loyal. I am tempted to eliminate the feature from my page, simply because I don't want something that is not reliable....but then the free publicity would go away too...so it stays...for now.
I wrote the above just as my attempt to put some peace-of-mind back into the blog-o-sphere. If you notice that your numbers drop, fret not...it is probably because of a glitch.
Now for a cute family story---
My five-year-old daughter, Pumpkindoodle, arrived home from a play date this afternoon and requested a glass of milk. Seconds after placing her cup on the table, she looked up at me, batted her long eye lashes, and in the sweetest, most polite and adult sounding voice (much like Gwenyth Paltrow would use at a five star cafe--- in fact, imagine a young Gwenyth...it makes the story funnier) said:
"Oh! Did I say milk? (polite giggle) I meant chocolate milk. Just swish a little chocolate syrup in here and that will be fine. Thank you!"
Biting my lip hard enough to release a twinge of blood, I replied.
"So sorry Miss Ma'am, we are fresh out of chocolate syrup. Perhaps another time."
My girl cracks me up.
There has also been some better news about Peter today. Please click the link on my side bar for the latest information.
First, a blogging PSA:
Earlier this week, I noticed that my blog roll numbers dropped from 199 to 189...in one hour. Since that was during the time I posted a prayer request about baby Peter, I was pretty certain that Becoming Me did not develop a case of blogger B.O. I also, didn't get upset...honest. I now view that feature as a public service....it's totally free publicity for whomever is interested. Thinking about it in this manner frees my OCD leaning self from much angst.
So, I'm good. But, I thought it odd...ten people missing at once.
I did some research (I twittered about it) and learned from a friend, who heard from a friend, who heard from a friend...who heard from a friend, that Blogger has been marking "followers" as anonymous....all that means is that the picture goes away. Apparently, it has happened before.
I then checked my list and noticed that 24 of the blogs I followed had been marked anonymous as well. So, unwittingly, I was "dumping" people all week. I made the corrections...I'm very loyal. I am tempted to eliminate the feature from my page, simply because I don't want something that is not reliable....but then the free publicity would go away too...so it stays...for now.
I wrote the above just as my attempt to put some peace-of-mind back into the blog-o-sphere. If you notice that your numbers drop, fret not...it is probably because of a glitch.
Now for a cute family story---
My five-year-old daughter, Pumpkindoodle, arrived home from a play date this afternoon and requested a glass of milk. Seconds after placing her cup on the table, she looked up at me, batted her long eye lashes, and in the sweetest, most polite and adult sounding voice (much like Gwenyth Paltrow would use at a five star cafe--- in fact, imagine a young Gwenyth...it makes the story funnier) said:
"Oh! Did I say milk? (polite giggle) I meant chocolate milk. Just swish a little chocolate syrup in here and that will be fine. Thank you!"
Biting my lip hard enough to release a twinge of blood, I replied.
"So sorry Miss Ma'am, we are fresh out of chocolate syrup. Perhaps another time."
My girl cracks me up.
There has also been some better news about Peter today. Please click the link on my side bar for the latest information.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
God Made You Special
In yesterday's post, I promised to share more information with you about U*R*Unique, the hand crafted jewelery and accessory shop owned by my friend Amy Humphrey.
When Amy asked me to visit her on-line shop, I eagerly clicked the link she provided. Some gals like shoes, some like purses, and some like jewelry. I'm a jewelry girl. You can take a simple shirt, add a snazzy necklace, and lo' and behold, you're a knock-out.
Not only did my mouth drop open when I viewed Amy's beautiful collection, tears formed in my eyes when I noticed that her business is also a mission. The image on the left comes from the first page of her site.
Amy does more than design quality, one-of-a-kind jewelry for women, she encourages women, and uplifts them with Biblical truth.
Here is a message from Amy:
"I am a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom of two little girls ages 5 1/2 and 2 1/2. As a child, I was always interested in anything art-related. I took every art class available in school, including a jewelry class in high school, and then went on to be an art major in college. A few years ago I decided to pursue jewelry-making, as time and money permitted. After making a few pieces and receiving much encouragement from friends, through their kind words and purchases, I decided to choose a name and vision for my budding business. At the time, I also had an increasing burden to encourage women, dispelling the lies of the enemy with the truth of God's Word. That's when the idea came about to create a website through which I could sell my jewelry and encourage women at the same time."
Isn't that great? Here are a few samples from her collection.
Pro-Life Bracelet 
Those are just a few of my favorite pieces. There is much more on her site.
Now for the contest. Here's how it works.
Next week, Monday-Thursday, I am going to post a series of advice letters to my younger self. On the last day of the series, everyone who comments on letter number four is eligible to win a bookmark like the one pictured below (There are many to choose from however, and this contest is winner's choice).
For additional entries, write your own Letter to the Younger You with a link to my site and U*R*Unique. You can post the letter any time next Monday-Thursday. Commenting on Previous posts will increase your chances as well and I'll explain that next week.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
With A Reason, But Without Rhyme
Normally, I don't do random here at Becoming Me. I figure that I'm random enough in real life. But today I'm going to give you three posts in one. I'm also going to write like I talk today, because I feel like chatting...and because I'm too tired to think straight.
An Apology
During the past few months, I've received several sweet blog awards that I have more or less ignored. I feel badly about that. The truth is that even though I am grateful for the encouragement, I also find it overwhelming. I've always been the type who embarrasses easily over public praise. I love to praise others, but when the attention comes my way...I tend to brush it aside. That probably either makes zero sense or sounds conceited. Please believe me that this is not an issue about me being prideful, it's more about me keeping my pride in check.
So if you have given me an award, thank you so much. I do appreciate it, really, I do. And, if I have hurt your feelings, will you please do me a favor? Send me an e-mail and let me know.
A Friendship Report
People who do not blog have a difficult time believing that the connections and friendships between bloggers are genuine. Last week I had the privilege of meeting two friends that I have known only in blogland. Both are amazing women, moms, writers, and speakers. And, I'm pretty sure you know them. And let me tell you this...they truly are as sweet and fun as they come across as being on their blogs.
On the far left of this photo is the beautiful and anointed writer Carol from Sheep to the Right. God gave Carol the gift of finding His truth in the most ordinary circumstances. One of my favorite stories written by Carol is about her mom's shopping trip to a closing K-Mart store. In the middle is the equally beautiful Amy, who is a gifted speaker and writer. In her blog Signs, Miracles, and Wonders, Amy blogs about her faith, her family, and her son's Epilepsy. She also hosts the weekly meme Then Sings My Soul Saturday.
The chick on the far right, well that's me, who in addition to getting lost on the way to meet Carol and Amy (because, that's what I do whn I get into my car and go somewhere for the first time) is wearing a beautiful necklace. That necklace brings me to blog post three.
A Contest Announcement
A college friend of mine, Amy, owns a jewelry and accessory business featuring her own creations. Her store is called U*R*Uniquie, and her handcrafted necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and bookmarks are not only stunningly beautiful, they are made with a mission.
Tomorrow, I'm going to tell you more about Amy and the misson of U*R* Unique. Then, starting next Monday, I am going to publish a four-part series entitled Letters to the Younger Me. The series was inspired by this post written by Rachel at Musings of a Future Pastor's Wife. Incidently, Rachel was inspired by Mama Belle, who was inspired by Missy.
If I am not mistaken, the original idea was to write a letter to yourself at the age you were 20 years ago. I was 15 twenty years ago, and there is so much I want to tell that girl. But I also have some words for my 20 year-old self, 25 year-old self and 30 year-old self. So, that's why you get a four-parter. I promise not to make it drawn out and boring.
Because reading and consulting God's word more is advice I would have given myself at each of those phases, I will be giving away a special bookmark from U*R Unique at the end of the series.
Phew! Being random via my blog is harder than being random in real life.
An Apology
During the past few months, I've received several sweet blog awards that I have more or less ignored. I feel badly about that. The truth is that even though I am grateful for the encouragement, I also find it overwhelming. I've always been the type who embarrasses easily over public praise. I love to praise others, but when the attention comes my way...I tend to brush it aside. That probably either makes zero sense or sounds conceited. Please believe me that this is not an issue about me being prideful, it's more about me keeping my pride in check.
So if you have given me an award, thank you so much. I do appreciate it, really, I do. And, if I have hurt your feelings, will you please do me a favor? Send me an e-mail and let me know.
A Friendship Report
People who do not blog have a difficult time believing that the connections and friendships between bloggers are genuine. Last week I had the privilege of meeting two friends that I have known only in blogland. Both are amazing women, moms, writers, and speakers. And, I'm pretty sure you know them. And let me tell you this...they truly are as sweet and fun as they come across as being on their blogs.
On the far left of this photo is the beautiful and anointed writer Carol from Sheep to the Right. God gave Carol the gift of finding His truth in the most ordinary circumstances. One of my favorite stories written by Carol is about her mom's shopping trip to a closing K-Mart store. In the middle is the equally beautiful Amy, who is a gifted speaker and writer. In her blog Signs, Miracles, and Wonders, Amy blogs about her faith, her family, and her son's Epilepsy. She also hosts the weekly meme Then Sings My Soul Saturday.The chick on the far right, well that's me, who in addition to getting lost on the way to meet Carol and Amy (because, that's what I do whn I get into my car and go somewhere for the first time) is wearing a beautiful necklace. That necklace brings me to blog post three.
A Contest Announcement
A college friend of mine, Amy, owns a jewelry and accessory business featuring her own creations. Her store is called U*R*Uniquie, and her handcrafted necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and bookmarks are not only stunningly beautiful, they are made with a mission.
Tomorrow, I'm going to tell you more about Amy and the misson of U*R* Unique. Then, starting next Monday, I am going to publish a four-part series entitled Letters to the Younger Me. The series was inspired by this post written by Rachel at Musings of a Future Pastor's Wife. Incidently, Rachel was inspired by Mama Belle, who was inspired by Missy.
If I am not mistaken, the original idea was to write a letter to yourself at the age you were 20 years ago. I was 15 twenty years ago, and there is so much I want to tell that girl. But I also have some words for my 20 year-old self, 25 year-old self and 30 year-old self. So, that's why you get a four-parter. I promise not to make it drawn out and boring.
Because reading and consulting God's word more is advice I would have given myself at each of those phases, I will be giving away a special bookmark from U*R Unique at the end of the series.
Phew! Being random via my blog is harder than being random in real life.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
As The Blog Rolls
About two weeks ago, I thought it would be fabulous if I not only updated my blogroll, but made it a resource for others.
My people pleasing roots run deep. So deep that as I was compiling my list, I realized that my blogroll had grown to include more than 200 blogs and I was still adding. As I checked out blogs, I found more blogrolls with even more great blogs that I had never before read...I wanted to add those blogs too.
Then, squished my eyes shut...a lame attempt to stop the room from spinning and to slow down my palpitating heart. As one friend commented, I had opened the proverbial can of worms...a giant can.
As much as I want to create a resource for other bloggers to find great blogs, I realized that in this stage of life I cannot. I also realized that those resources already exist. And since I already broke a primo writing rule by using a tired cliche, I'm going to use another one...why reinvent the wheel?
So, instead of an updated gargantuan blogroll, here is my new well thought out and prayed through action plan:
1) Beginning February 1, I will replace "blog of the month" with "blog of the week."
2) I will include a few buttons on my blog for mass blog rolls.
3) My current traditional blogroll will be discontinued.
The "blogs I follow" list that is a part of my profile is essentially a blogroll of sorts and contains as many blogs as I am permitted to follow. I'm keeping that.
I hope that these changes will not hurt any feelings, and I do apologize if I have disappointed you.
Now, on to fun stuff. If you would like your blog to be listed as blog of the week, I ask that you send an e-mail to becomingme@live.com with the answers to the following questions:
1) What is the name an url of your blog?
2) What is your name?
3) Why do you blog?
4) What's your niche? -- i.e. cooking blog, mommy blog, political blog, etc. I will accept hodge podge as a niche.
In addition to a post, the "blog of the week" will be featured on my left side bar from the Sunday-Saturday of the week it is to be featured. If you do not have a button, I can help you create something very simple, however, I must warn you that my design skills are limited to typing text over a picture and placing a border around it.
Also, the idea to have a question/answer post format once a week is not my own. Kristen from We Are That Family implemented something similar on her blog several months ago.
Thanks for putting up with me for changing my mind.
My people pleasing roots run deep. So deep that as I was compiling my list, I realized that my blogroll had grown to include more than 200 blogs and I was still adding. As I checked out blogs, I found more blogrolls with even more great blogs that I had never before read...I wanted to add those blogs too.
Then, squished my eyes shut...a lame attempt to stop the room from spinning and to slow down my palpitating heart. As one friend commented, I had opened the proverbial can of worms...a giant can.
As much as I want to create a resource for other bloggers to find great blogs, I realized that in this stage of life I cannot. I also realized that those resources already exist. And since I already broke a primo writing rule by using a tired cliche, I'm going to use another one...why reinvent the wheel?
So, instead of an updated gargantuan blogroll, here is my new well thought out and prayed through action plan:
1) Beginning February 1, I will replace "blog of the month" with "blog of the week."
2) I will include a few buttons on my blog for mass blog rolls.
3) My current traditional blogroll will be discontinued.
The "blogs I follow" list that is a part of my profile is essentially a blogroll of sorts and contains as many blogs as I am permitted to follow. I'm keeping that.
I hope that these changes will not hurt any feelings, and I do apologize if I have disappointed you.
Now, on to fun stuff. If you would like your blog to be listed as blog of the week, I ask that you send an e-mail to becomingme@live.com with the answers to the following questions:
1) What is the name an url of your blog?
2) What is your name?
3) Why do you blog?
4) What's your niche? -- i.e. cooking blog, mommy blog, political blog, etc. I will accept hodge podge as a niche.
In addition to a post, the "blog of the week" will be featured on my left side bar from the Sunday-Saturday of the week it is to be featured. If you do not have a button, I can help you create something very simple, however, I must warn you that my design skills are limited to typing text over a picture and placing a border around it.
Also, the idea to have a question/answer post format once a week is not my own. Kristen from We Are That Family implemented something similar on her blog several months ago.
Thanks for putting up with me for changing my mind.
Hebrews 10:23-24 (New International Version)
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.Wednesday, January 14, 2009
All Good Things Come to an End
Again, I had a blast with my Birthday Bash. I hope you did as well.
Congratulations to the final winner, #13 He & Me + 3 for winning an adorable customized tee-shirt from Isn't She Adorable.
I have one more surprise.
From*meTees is offering FREE standard shipping on ANY order placed by readers of Becoming Me. If you are interested in this offer, you just need to let them know that you are coming from Becoming Me at the time you place your order. You can do this by commenting on the "how did you hear about us" section on their site or by sending an e-mail to info@frommetees.com at the time of your order. Orders are normally processed and shipped the next business day. Standard shipping costs will be refunded to the payment source at the time of shipping and a confirmation via e-mail will be sent. This offer is valid until Saturday, January 17.
I'll be back tomorrow with a new devotion-type post. Today, I'm over at Faith Lifts.
Thanks again to all of you who made my birthday so special.
Congratulations to the final winner, #13 He & Me + 3 for winning an adorable customized tee-shirt from Isn't She Adorable.
I have one more surprise.
From*meTees is offering FREE standard shipping on ANY order placed by readers of Becoming Me. If you are interested in this offer, you just need to let them know that you are coming from Becoming Me at the time you place your order. You can do this by commenting on the "how did you hear about us" section on their site or by sending an e-mail to info@frommetees.com at the time of your order. Orders are normally processed and shipped the next business day. Standard shipping costs will be refunded to the payment source at the time of shipping and a confirmation via e-mail will be sent. This offer is valid until Saturday, January 17.
I'll be back tomorrow with a new devotion-type post. Today, I'm over at Faith Lifts.
Thanks again to all of you who made my birthday so special.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Birthday Bash Day Seven - Fantasy
Congratulations to Jenn of A Country Girl's Ramblings. She won a shirt of her choice (up to $18) at From*me Tees. I would have been happy for whoever won, but I'll admit to being excited when Jenn's name was anonymously drawn from a bowl. Jenn graciously donated a prize for Day one of the Bash.
As I learned yesterday, blog readership tends to go down during the weekend...even when a fabulous prize is being given away. I also know from experience, that Sunday is not a popular day for blog reading either. In order to be fair to my next guest, I'm going to extend today's contest to 12 p.m. on Monday, January 12th. Don't worry, I'll still give you a full 24 hours to win the "One to grow" prize from Isn't She Adorable.
Several months ago, I happened across a blog that was reviewing a fantasy novel geared to readers between the ages of 8 and 14. Intrigued that the author was a Christian, and this novel was his debut into the literary world, I kept reading. When I learned that the author of Ryann Watters and the King's Sword was Eric Reinhold I wondered if it was the same Eric Reinhold who I once worked with at a financial planning firm in Orlando, Florida. You can imagine my excitement when I discovered that Eric Reinhold, novelist, and Eric Reinhold, certified financial planner, are indeed the same person.
It's a pleasure to introduce you to someone with whom I actually had face to face conversations. It's also a joy to let others know about an engaging and well-written book that incorporates Biblical principles into the plot. That's rare these days...especially in the genres of fantasy and science fiction.
Another cool fact about this book is that a screen play has been written and is currently being shopped around Hollywood.
Here is a little more information about Eric and his book Ryann Watters and the King's Sword.
About the Author:
Eric Reinhold is the father of three—Kaylyn, Kara, and Kyler. While telling his kids bedtime tales, Eric developed the story of Ryann Watters. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Eric holds his B.S. in Economics from that institution and his Masters in Business Administration from the University of Baltimore. He is a Certified Financial Planner, having received such from the College of Financial Planning in Denver, Colorado. When not weaving his fantastical tales of supernatural adventure, Eric serves as President of Academy Wealth Management, a fee-based, financial planning firm utilizing Biblical principles. He and his wife, Kim, make their home in Orlando, Florida where Kim home schools their three children. They are members of First Baptist Church Sweetwater in Longwood, Florida, where Eric teaches the Cross Trainers Bible Fellowship Group every Sunday morning.
About Ryann Watters and the King's Sword
Ryann Watters and the King's Sword is the first segment of a trilogy based on the book of Ephesians chapter 6 (putting on the armor of God). When asked what he considers to be the strength of the Ryann Watters series, Eric replied,
"The biggest strength of my story is that there is believability. At least early on, everyone can picture themselves as Ryann. He lives in the real town of Mount Dora, Florida, and is visited in the middle of the night by Gabriel and tasked with finding the King's sword. Gabriel gives him three gifts to help him along the way. I loved super hero comics growing up (still do), so Ryann is given a staff (smooth and metal with 7 buttons) and as he matures throughout the story, the buttons light up and have different powers. Not only that, but he is given a ring that changes colors when he's near different things. He has two good friends, Liddy and Terell, and together they have to piece together clues to find Aeliana and search for the sword. Across town, the class bully is visited by a Dark Angel and told to stop Ryann. Book 2 in the Annals of Aeliana is almost finished. I've gotten carried away and it's over 400 pages now, but "Ryann Watters and the Shield of Faith" introduces a very cool cast of new characters, including; a Pegasus, White Dragon and Unicorn, a Black Unicorn, Elves, Dwarves… oh, and a new evil race – The Hugons (half human – half dragon). It's due for release in May 2009 and you can find out more on my blog."
If you know anyone who enjoys reading fantasy please leave a comment and you will be eligiable to win a copy of Ryann Watters and the King's Sword.
If you don't win, there is no need to fret. The book is now available on line and in stores and can also be purchased at RyannWatters.com. Be sure to order it soon so that you and your science fiction fan can finish reading it before the sequel, Ryann Watters and the Shield of Faith, is released this May.
As I learned yesterday, blog readership tends to go down during the weekend...even when a fabulous prize is being given away. I also know from experience, that Sunday is not a popular day for blog reading either. In order to be fair to my next guest, I'm going to extend today's contest to 12 p.m. on Monday, January 12th. Don't worry, I'll still give you a full 24 hours to win the "One to grow" prize from Isn't She Adorable.
Several months ago, I happened across a blog that was reviewing a fantasy novel geared to readers between the ages of 8 and 14. Intrigued that the author was a Christian, and this novel was his debut into the literary world, I kept reading. When I learned that the author of Ryann Watters and the King's Sword was Eric Reinhold I wondered if it was the same Eric Reinhold who I once worked with at a financial planning firm in Orlando, Florida. You can imagine my excitement when I discovered that Eric Reinhold, novelist, and Eric Reinhold, certified financial planner, are indeed the same person.
It's a pleasure to introduce you to someone with whom I actually had face to face conversations. It's also a joy to let others know about an engaging and well-written book that incorporates Biblical principles into the plot. That's rare these days...especially in the genres of fantasy and science fiction.
Another cool fact about this book is that a screen play has been written and is currently being shopped around Hollywood.
Here is a little more information about Eric and his book Ryann Watters and the King's Sword.
About the Author:
Eric Reinhold is the father of three—Kaylyn, Kara, and Kyler. While telling his kids bedtime tales, Eric developed the story of Ryann Watters. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Eric holds his B.S. in Economics from that institution and his Masters in Business Administration from the University of Baltimore. He is a Certified Financial Planner, having received such from the College of Financial Planning in Denver, Colorado. When not weaving his fantastical tales of supernatural adventure, Eric serves as President of Academy Wealth Management, a fee-based, financial planning firm utilizing Biblical principles. He and his wife, Kim, make their home in Orlando, Florida where Kim home schools their three children. They are members of First Baptist Church Sweetwater in Longwood, Florida, where Eric teaches the Cross Trainers Bible Fellowship Group every Sunday morning.
About Ryann Watters and the King's Sword
Ryann Watters and the King's Sword is the first segment of a trilogy based on the book of Ephesians chapter 6 (putting on the armor of God). When asked what he considers to be the strength of the Ryann Watters series, Eric replied,
"The biggest strength of my story is that there is believability. At least early on, everyone can picture themselves as Ryann. He lives in the real town of Mount Dora, Florida, and is visited in the middle of the night by Gabriel and tasked with finding the King's sword. Gabriel gives him three gifts to help him along the way. I loved super hero comics growing up (still do), so Ryann is given a staff (smooth and metal with 7 buttons) and as he matures throughout the story, the buttons light up and have different powers. Not only that, but he is given a ring that changes colors when he's near different things. He has two good friends, Liddy and Terell, and together they have to piece together clues to find Aeliana and search for the sword. Across town, the class bully is visited by a Dark Angel and told to stop Ryann. Book 2 in the Annals of Aeliana is almost finished. I've gotten carried away and it's over 400 pages now, but "Ryann Watters and the Shield of Faith" introduces a very cool cast of new characters, including; a Pegasus, White Dragon and Unicorn, a Black Unicorn, Elves, Dwarves… oh, and a new evil race – The Hugons (half human – half dragon). It's due for release in May 2009 and you can find out more on my blog."
If you know anyone who enjoys reading fantasy please leave a comment and you will be eligiable to win a copy of Ryann Watters and the King's Sword.
If you don't win, there is no need to fret. The book is now available on line and in stores and can also be purchased at RyannWatters.com. Be sure to order it soon so that you and your science fiction fan can finish reading it before the sequel, Ryann Watters and the Shield of Faith, is released this May.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Birthday Bash Day 5-Tea for You
Congratulations to "Slowly Dying" from My Hearts Speaks (#38) and "Tabby-GodzChyld" from I Choose Bliss (#29) for winning a copy of Keri Wyatt Kent's Rest: Living In Sabbath Simplicity.
Today's prize is a gift pack from Tea & Traditions. As I was brewing my first cup of loose-leaf tea from Tea Traditions I wondered if I would really taste a difference, after all, I don't have the most sophisticated palate. I learned that day that just as I don't need suave taste buds to distinguish between salt and sugar, I don't need them to notice a difference between loose-leaf tea and that brewed from a bag. The tea truly is fresh-tasting, invigorating, and delicious.
To win today's prize pack, head over to Mari's shop and look around. Then come back here and let me know what you'd purchase there if you won a shopping spree.
Today's prize is a gift pack from Tea & Traditions. As I was brewing my first cup of loose-leaf tea from Tea Traditions I wondered if I would really taste a difference, after all, I don't have the most sophisticated palate. I learned that day that just as I don't need suave taste buds to distinguish between salt and sugar, I don't need them to notice a difference between loose-leaf tea and that brewed from a bag. The tea truly is fresh-tasting, invigorating, and delicious.
To win today's prize pack, head over to Mari's shop and look around. Then come back here and let me know what you'd purchase there if you won a shopping spree.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Birthday Bash Prize Four - REST
Prior to reading Keri Wyatt Kent's latest book, Rest: Living in Sabbath Simplicity, my Sabbath day included many must do's...but rest never made the cut. Instead, bickering and panic were part of my Sunday morning routine as I crammed too many activities into the early hours of the day and then rushed to get everyone to church. I also used the Sabbath day as my day to prepare for the coming week...to try to do things to make my life easier for the next six days.Through her tenderhearted and well researched writing, Keri encourages her readers to view the Sabbath as both God's gift to them and as an opportunity to reconnect with the Creator and those we love. She explains not only why it is an important commandment to keep in our fast-paced society, but that it is also one that is not as difficult to respect as we sometimes think it is.
I appreciated that this book did not contain a list of do's and don'ts and instead offered helpful suggestions to use the Sabbath as a time to refresh, refuel, and rejuvenate.
Rest:Living in Sabbath Simplicity, was indeed a life-changing read...for me and my family.
Keri Wyatt Kent graciously answered many questions from curious readers about Rest. Here are two questions that I thought you would like answered. You can read the entire Q&A here.
Q: What is Sabbath, and what is its purpose? What do you mean by Sabbath Simplicity?
A: Sabbath, first and foremost, is a gift from our loving God. He invites us to take a day to rest from our labor, so that we might engage in relationship with him and with others. Its purpose is to refresh us physically and spiritually, to celebrate our freedom, to draw us close to God, and yet to remind us that we are not God. God commanded us to Sabbath, to stop. But Sabbath-keeping is also a spiritual practice or discipline. All disciplines, (like prayer, solitude, etc.) create some space for God in our lives. Just as we have a lot of latitude in other practices (we can pray any number of ways, for example), we have freedom in how we practice Sabbath. My book offers a lot of ideas, and real-life examples, of how to approach this life-giving practice.
Sabbath Simplicity is a sanely-paced, God-focused life. It’s a lifestyle that includes the practice of Sabbath-keeping, but goes beyond just taking a day off. IN a way, it’s living out what Jesus told us to do in Matthew 6:33: See first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Sabbath Simplicity seeks God first.Q: What are some simple steps anyone can take to seek Sabbath Simplicity in their own lives?
A: The first step is to assess the current pace of your life—what activities have you and the people you live with said yes too. How hurried are you? You can’t figure out your next step, really, until you know where you are starting from. You may have to get very concrete and write down your schedule and look at it. Because your activity level during the week is going to affect your Sabbath.
Second, choose a day that you will keep Sabbath. I recommend Saturday or Sunday, and go from sunset to sunset. The Old Testament Sabbath was from sunset on the 6th day of the week to sunset on the 7th day—although as I explain in detail in the book, their ancient calendars were different from ours.
Third, choose one thing to refrain from, one thing to engage in. For example, refrain from housework or running errands, and engage in reading a spiritually challenging book, or playing with your kids. Start with small steps, and think about building your Sabbath Simplicity life a little at a time, gradually. After a few weeks, add another thing you will refrain from, and another thing you’ll engage in. Pray and listen, let God shape your Sabbath practice. Make your relationship with him the focus. Allow yourself flexibility.Today, two of you have a chance to win a copy of this book. Just leave a comment at the end of this post. If you do not win a book here, you can order a copy at Amazon.com or Christianbook.com. It's also available everywhere and at other online venues.
The contest is open to all US and Canadian residents and closes tonight at 9 p.m.
Congratulations to Karen, a non-blogger who won yesterday's prize.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Birthday Bash Day Three-And Some Heaven
Congratulations to Ruth Stiles from Life's Journey. Number 10 was chosen from a random drawing, and Ruth was the 10th commenter. Thanks again to Kelli at Blush and Bashful Baby for the adorable bib. Oh...the adorable baby model from yesterdays post is not my baby. I swiped the photo from Kelli's site. He is a cutie though.
On to Day Three...
Today's prize is the children's book, God Gave Us Heaven, by one of my favorite authors, Lisa T. Bergren. Here is a description of the book I copied from Amazon.com.
Product Description
As the sun rises on her snow-covered world, Little Cub wonders aloud…
“What is heaven like?”
With tender words, her Papa describes a wonderful place, free of sadness and tears, where God warmly welcomes his loved ones after their life on earth is over. Little Cub and Papa spend the day wandering their beautiful, invigorating arctic world while she asks all about God’s home: How do we get to heaven? Will we eat there? Will I get to see you in heaven? Papa patiently answers each question, assuring her that…
“Heaven will be full of everything good.”
This gentle story provides satisfying answers for a young child’s most difficult questions about what happens after this life, inviting “little cubs” to find comfort in knowing that God Gave Us Heaven.
Also available:
God Gave Us You
God Gave Us Two
God Gave Us Christmas
About the Author
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the award-winning author of nearly thirty titles, totaling more than one million books in print. She writes in a broad range of genres, from adult fiction to devotional. God Gave Us Heaven is Lisa’s fourth children’s book, following in the tradition of the best-selling God Gave Us You. She makes her home in Colorado, with her husband, Tim, and their children, Olivia, Emma, and Jack.
As the sun rises on her snow-covered world, Little Cub wonders aloud…
“What is heaven like?”
With tender words, her Papa describes a wonderful place, free of sadness and tears, where God warmly welcomes his loved ones after their life on earth is over. Little Cub and Papa spend the day wandering their beautiful, invigorating arctic world while she asks all about God’s home: How do we get to heaven? Will we eat there? Will I get to see you in heaven? Papa patiently answers each question, assuring her that…
“Heaven will be full of everything good.”
This gentle story provides satisfying answers for a young child’s most difficult questions about what happens after this life, inviting “little cubs” to find comfort in knowing that God Gave Us Heaven.
Also available:
God Gave Us You
God Gave Us Two
God Gave Us Christmas
About the Author
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the award-winning author of nearly thirty titles, totaling more than one million books in print. She writes in a broad range of genres, from adult fiction to devotional. God Gave Us Heaven is Lisa’s fourth children’s book, following in the tradition of the best-selling God Gave Us You. She makes her home in Colorado, with her husband, Tim, and their children, Olivia, Emma, and Jack.
To enter to win a copy of Lisa's book, just leave a comment at this post and tell me what you would like to do first when you get to Heaven. Special thanks to Lisa for contributing a copy of this book for my birthday bash. The drawing closes tonight at 9 pm EST and, because of postage costs, is open only to US and Canadian residence.
Here's a little something I wrote about Heaven in June of last year. It is tightly based on a conversation I had with my daughter...yes...she really does use the word wonderful quite often.
Where Lions Won't Bite (first published on June 23, 2008)
Pumpkindoodle tilted her chin upward, but the corners of her rosebud pink lips pointed toward her toes. Something was troubling my reflective daughter.
She shook her head no.
Lions won’t bite you because only gentle, friendly lions live in Heaven.”
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