Pure, Unadulterated Joy

God continues to stretch and teach me through this experience with my mom

By Joy A. Kennelly

If you're not on my Facebook page and have only been reading this blog, then you might not know my mom's pains were deadly serious and she almost died last week. Fortunately, they caught the puncture in her heart and the subsequent fluid filling her lungs the 2nd trip to emergency performing emergency open heart surgery to repair it that same night.

Never doubt a woman's intuition is all I have to say. I knew something drastically wrong was happening because I've never seen her have such severe pain and inability to breath like that before. I kept pressing for her to go see her doctor and despite my father's thoughts that she was exaggerating, by the time the last episode happened even he couldn't deny it.

Although it was a hard phone call to receive when he called to tell me she'd been re-admitted, it was also comforting because I could hear in his voice how sorry he felt for dismissing her earlier pains. He's still very stoic and unemotional which is what I've grown up with.

Last night however, I just needed to talk to someone and let down my guard and cry I felt so overwhelmed. Despite feeling like it could be the wrong thing to do, after church last night I drove straight to her hospital room to share my true feelings with her.

I've been so strong and not let her see me cry, but last night needed her to know how I really felt. She's always been my confidante, my best friend, my spiritual adviser. While I sat next to her hospital bed while she lay on her side, we held hands and I just dumped. I told her everything I felt about this entire experience and she was just like my old mom before her heart procedure.

She comforted me with words of wisdom, love and understanding despite her own fears and pain as only she knows how to do. She told me maybe God is trying to strip away everything I normally go to when I'm stressed out and bring me to Him only.

She told me to put my trust in God because that's the only place I'll find peace. I had felt so good earlier praying for her and her room-mate to encourage them, and now, here she was encouraging me.

Her nurse was very encouraging too and told me she will arrange to let me speak to case manager to advise me on where I can find support at the hospital. I realize rather than continue to blog, or seek support only through my own resources, I must reach out and have personal contact with others who are going through what I'm going through.

After a bit, my Mom and I prayed together and then I left to allow the nurses to give her a blood transfusion. I was so encouraged this morning when I called to check in on her to hear her sound like her old self and ready to get out of the hospital.

Before she used to tell the nurses, I'm never leaving which scared me. She wasn't feeling very strong before, but now that she's had this blood transfusion she is on the real road to recovery. I had to arrange with the nurse to prevent any more guests coming in to visit because although mom loves seeing people, she doesn't know how to tell them she's getting tired and over-extends herself.

Although Mom has never understood why I love to have massages, she has really enjoyed the back massages I've given her. I am going to see if we can have someone professional come in to help soothe her pain when she gets out of the hospital too.

I have faith again that my Mom is on the road to restored health and am so grateful to all my friends and others who have been praying for us. I know God answers prayer. I just needed a boost and today's answer to prayer has really helped.

If I've been short tempered, I apologize. I've been under a tremendous amount of stress and don't handle it well, although I'm trying to get better at it.

When I told my Dad I was looking into support groups at the hospital his response was "Why? You don't need it. You're not dealing with Alzheimer patient. Now those people really need support." That's why I don't share much with him what's going on with me. My pain is never valid, nor my feelings. After awhile you realize that's just him and he'll never change.

He's yet to break down, nor admit his fear, but maybe he does it with the many men's groups he's involved in. I don't know. I hope so, but I kinda doubt it. He's the type who likes to pretend nothing's wrong and he never needs any help until people offer it and then he's grateful.

Men and women are so different sometimes, don't you agree?:) I'm just glad today's a new day, a new week and a new beginning. I'm going to go have a massage to relieve more stress and then am heading back over to the hospital.

Thanks again for your prayers. Means a lot and are definitely felt.

Family Ties - blood is definitely thicker than water.

By Joy A. Kennelly

Well all good things must come to an end. Tomorrow my sister and her kids head back to CO after a jam-packed, fun-filled vacation out here visiting with us and other friends in San Diego and here. I have had a lot of fun spending time with them. Maybe too much fun.:)

I also enjoyed my visit with my cousins visiting from Ohio who I haven't seen since they were married many moons ago. The reason we all got together was sad because my uncle died, but sometimes sad things happen to draw family closer together.

My uncle's death was a surprise to me, but those closest to him were kind of expecting it since he'd been in and out of the hospital so often lately. I have to admit, it's probably a big relief to my aunt not to have to worry about him although it's still sad. We normally only get together on holidays.

My mom and I and family all convened at my other aunt's home for lunch in San Diego before attending the service which was nice. The service was very lovely and gave me an opportunity to mourn with his side of the family. Then we had dinner afterward privately again which was nice.

My family is pretty funny and we were sharing fun family memories this morning which was a nice way to start the weekend. My cousin promises to stay in better touch now that we've re-connected in person which is nice because he and his wife are really wonderful people.

My allergies are finally subsiding - thank you Cousin Caroline for recommending Sudafed! After a nine hour rest, I feel great and ready for tonight's BBQ which should be fun. Speaking of which, I need to go prep.

Did want to say that my previous O post drew quite the commentary on Facebook which was fun to read. I am moving on from that issue, but if you're curious, read my F/B notes to learn what both sides of the political spectrum feel about this.

As for me, I'm enjoying my summer! I hope you are too!

Ode to the Adoptive Parents of my son, Eli

By Joy A. Kennelly

Earlier tonight I called the adoptive couple to speak to my son, Eli, who just turned 10 yesterday. Some of you know I have a son, some of you don't because I don't talk about him all the time and he lives with his adoptive parents out-of-state.

However, since Cinco de Mayo was his birthday I feel compelled to give an update because I'm so proud of him and so proud to know the adoptive parents. When I was struggling with my pregnancy, not knowing which way to turn, I made the difficult decision to choose an open adoption for me and my son.

This has affected my life and probably will until I die. However, I'm happy to report that I'm content with my decision because in spite of everything I know my son is well loved, well adjusted and one helluva kid.

He's on the honor roll (again!), over 5 ft tall at age ten (like me at that age!), is a voracious reader with an imense vocabulary for a child his age (just like me!), loves music (like all of us), and loves computers (like all of us!). It's been very wonderful to hear how he's doing from his godmother, Elaine.

She broke down in tears when we were talking and thanked me for making the sacrifice to place him with them. That touched my heart so deeply since it isn't something any of us talk about very often. Then tonight, when I was talking to the adoptive mother, my heart just swelled with love and pride for choosing such wonderful people to raise my son.

Not only have they raised my son to be all that he can be, but since the husband has retired from the military and now has more time with his new job, they have been studying to be foster parents. It was a little over a week ago that they just took in three brothers to love and provide a stable home life for with Eli's blessing and his urging.

They've been discussing foster care for many years and Eli has ALWAYS wanted siblings. Now that he has 'em, I'm not so sure he realized he'd be sharing a bedroom. It was so cute after we had talked about his new computer game (which he advised me to check out on the Nintendo site - he spelled Nintendo to make sure I knew where to look which made me smile), and about everything else, I asked him how he liked having all his new brothers. That part he loved.

Then I asked how he liked sharing his room to which he soto whispered to me (since they might have been around), "I don't like it very much." which makes me giggle even as I'm writing this. I never liked sharing a room with my sister's growing up either (even though now that I think back I don't think I did that often since I was the oldest come to think about it.)

My heart swelled with love and apprectiation for the adoptive couple for graciously opening their home and their hearts to three little boys who really needed love and stability for reasons I don't know, nor need to know.

All I do know is that God is alive and well in this family. I'm so proud to be a part of their family by default. I can sleep easy tonight knowing my little guy is thriving and he is so loved. I'm proud of him too for wanting to open his heart and home to other children at such a young age too because it's a huge adjustment for everyone.

Can you imagine? Now they have four little boys - two 10 year olds, and a 6 and a 7 year old I believe. As we were talking, Amy was doing laundry and I bet that is an even more regular occurence now. I'm just so happy for all of them. I know they have lots of love to give and will provide what these little boys need in all ways.

Just felt like sharing because it touched my heart so much and hope it touches yours too.

That's all for now.

God bless!

Please pray for my friend Tony who had a heart attack

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just heard the news that my good friend, Tony, who I've known for many years has just suffered a heart attack this past Friday and is in the ICU. Hearing it via email was a shock and I've been on the phone ever since trying to find a live person to share my grief with someone who knows him.

Please pray for he and his daughter Nicole. He's such a great guy and someone I consider a good friend. She needs and loves him and so do so many of us.

Thank you for reading and praying.

Just another sunny day in CA - I told you so...

By Joy A. Kennelly

What you can always count on in CA is that even if you're experiencing one or two days of grey, pretty soon the sun will peep through and you'll have sunshiney weather once again. Today is no exception. Yesterday was grey and gloomy with rain showers off and on and now... beautiful weather!

Just love it. I had a very nice day yesterday with the fam and hope you enjoyed yourselves too. I promised them I wouldn't write about it, but I do have to share this funny moment because we all were laughing. My aunt who hosted the party is doing some remodeling and recently completed their beautiful new bathroom.

The big highlight of the day yesterday was learning how the new bedat works (the toilet that washes your privates - what's that called again? I'm not spelling it correctly, but you know right?)

Since everyone's faces are hidden I just have to post this one pic because it's so funny. I don't think my uncle ever figured it out, but we all had fun anyway.

What an amazing meal and lovely time was had by all. Now to decide what to do with the rest of the time off!:) Have a good one everyone!

My parents are fine, off to Seaside Ice to see Santa arrive. lol

By Joy A. Kennelly

Heard back from my mom via email that they're nowhere near the tragedy in Mumbai and are actually have a grand 'ole time as I suspected they would. Since they've traveled so much they know where to avoid and what to hit which is why even though I was  a little worried, I wasn't too scared for them.

Thanks for praying anyway. I think we should continue to pray for the people who were attacked because it's horrible what's going on and has happened over there. My heart goes out to the families affected. God bless you one and all.

Just got back from five hours worth of shopping and now to go hit Seaside Ice to watch Santa arrive! See ya! Have a good one!

Please pray for my parents as they travel in India - thanks

Blind adherence to Obama always surprises me. Does it you? and other stuff

By Joy A. Kennelly

It ALWAYS surprises me, and perhaps I do you, the blind adherence to Obama that so many of my otherwise intelligent, level-headed friends have despite the facts that have repeatedly been presented.

I'm sure many people feel that way about my support of McCain/Palin, but I do read a lot and ask a lot of questions of a variety of people before I come to these conclusions.

You'll also notice, I'm open to changing my mind if I feel something is right that I disagreed with before and I actually read the other side's viewpoints when friends send it to me. How many Democrats have you met are willing to do the same thing? Very few I'm sure.

For some reason none of them seem to think it's a big deal that Obama has had a long term relationship with a known domestic terrorist. Nor, that he is connected to ACORN (no matter how much he denies it and lies about it.)

Here's a history of William Ayers that I'm sure you'll never read elsewhere and you wonder why I'm concerned about Obama's friendship with him? OY! GIVE ME A BREAK!

Background: William Ayers was a member of the Weather Underground, a radical leftist group that from 1969 to the mid-'70s conducted several bombings of government institutions. Ayers served on the group's Central Committee. The Weather Underground bombed the U.S. Capitol, the Pentagon, military installations, and police stations. In all, seven people were killed. In 1981, two police officers and one security guard were killed by members of the Weather Underground in the robbery of a Brinks truck in New York state. After Ayers married Bernardine Dohrn, also a member of the Weather Underground (who was described by FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover as "the most dangerous woman in America"), they settled in Chicago.

 

Fact: Bernardine Dohrn had this to say in response to the Charles Manson murders, which she romanticized as a revolutionary coup at a Flint, Mich., Weatherman War Council in December 1969: "Dig it! First they killed those pigs, then they ate dinner in the same room with them. They even shoved a fork into the victim's stomach! Wild!" Dohrn later stated this was meant as a "joke."

Fact: In 1969, Bernardine Dohrn and other members of the Weather Underground traveled to Cuba and met with representatives of the North Vietnam and Cuban governments.

Fact: Both Ayers and Dohrn lived on the run from authorities from approximately 1970 to 1980. The case against Ayers and Dohrn was dropped due to illegal wiretaps and prosecutor misconduct. The FBI was conducting "black bag jobs," or illegal break-ins,in their pursuit of the Weather Underground. Some of these black bag jobs were authorized by Mark Felt, later to be known as "Deep Throat" of Watergate fame.

Fact: Shortly after turning themselves in, Dohrn and Ayers became legal guardians of the son of former members of the Weather Underground, Kathy Boudin and David Gilbert, after they were convicted of murder for their roles in a 1981 armored car robbery. Two police officers and one Brinks guard were killed in the robbery.

Fact: Starting in the mid-'90s, Ayers and Obama served on the board of the Chicago Annenberg Challenge Project. They served together on the board for approximately seven years. Ayers and Obama were tasked with the oversight of a $100 million budget. The board, under Obama's chairmanship the Annenberg project gave hundreds of thousands of dollars to Bill Ayers' projects promoting alternative schools. ["Anderson Cooper 360," CNN, Oct. 6, 2008]

Fact: From 1984 to 1988, Bernardine Dohrn was employed by the prestigious Chicago law firm Sidley Austin. She was hired by Howard Trienens, the head of the firm at that time and someone who knew Thomas G. Ayers, Bill's father. However, Dohrn's criminal record has prevented her from being admitted to either the New York or Illinois bar.  "Dohrn didn't get a [law] license because she's stubborn . . . She wouldn't say she's sorry." [Chicago Tribune, May 18, 2008]

Fact: In 1991, Dohrn was hired by Northwestern University School of Law in Chicago, as an adjunct professor of law, with the title "clinical associate professor of law." Thomas Ayers was a long-time member of the Northwestern Board of Trustees, and was named life trustee in 1987. [Source: Feb. 7, 2008 speech to the Conservative Political Action Conference, CPAC]

Fact: In 1994, Dohrn was quoted on her political beliefs: "I still see myself as a radical." [Chepesiuk, Ron, "Sixties Radicals, Then and Now: Candid Conversations With Those Who Shaped the Era," McFarland & Company, Inc]

Fact: In 1995, Obama's first autobiography is released. In it he writes of his years in college, associating with radicals. "To avoid being mistaken for a sellout, I chose my friends carefully. The more politically active black students. The foreign students. The Chicanos. The Marxist professors and structural feminists and punk rock performance poets . . . When we ground out our cigarettes in the hallway carpet or set our stereos so loud that the walls began to shake, we were resisting bourgeois society's stifling constraints. We weren't indifferent or careless or insecure. We were alienated." [Obama, Barack, "Dreams from My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance, Random House, Pages 100-101]

Fact: In 1995, Ayers and Dorn opened their Chicago Hyde Park home to host a political coming-out party for Barack Obama, when he ran for the state Senate. Someone who was at this party for Obama wrote that Ayers and Dohrn were launching him, "introducing him to the Hyde Park community as the best thing since sliced bread." [Politico.com, Feb. 22, 2008]

Fact: From 1999-2002, Ayers and Obama served together on a second charitable foundation, The Woods Fund. While at the Woods Fund, they gave money to the Rev. Jeremiah Wright's church, which Obama attended, and a children and family center, where Dohrn worked. ["Anderson Cooper 360," CNN, Oct. 6, 2008]

Fact: In a 1996 interview, one year after hosting Barack Obama's coming-out party in their home, Ayers and Dohrn were profiled by "The NewsHour" on PBS. Ayers was asked, "Looking back, would you do it differently now?" He stated, "I doubt it . . . probably not." (NOT THAT LONG AGO PEOPLE!)

Fact: Question to Obama in 2000, during his run for the U.S. Congress: "What is your argument, based on the one term that you served in the [Illinois] Senate so far, that makes you prepared for the Congress?" Answer: "I would argue . . . my experience previous to elected office equips me for the job . . . I've chaired major philanthropic efforts in the city, like the Chicago Annenberg Challenge that gave $50 million to prompt school reform efforts throughout the city." [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-45A6I-N5I&NR=1]

Fact: In 2001, Ayers made a $200 campaign contribution to Illinois state Sen. Barack Obama.

Fact: In promoting his book "Fugitive Days" Ayers told The New York Times on Sept. 11, 2001, "I don't regret setting bombs. I feel we didn't do enough." When asked if he would "do it all again," he said, "I don't want to discount the possibility." (ARE YOU SEEING THE PATTERN YET? HE IS STILL A RADICAL!)

Fact: Just days after 9/11, Ayers was quoted in The New York Times Magazine: "This society is not a just and decent place . . . We're living in a country where the election was stolen, and we didn't have a mass uprising. It's incredible. We're all asleep. The pundits all pat themselves on the back: 'God, what a great country'. . . It makes me want to puke."

Fact: In 2001, Ayers posed for a photograph in Chicago magazine, accompanying a profile of his book, which shows him stepping on an American flag. (AMERICA'S FREEDOMS GIVE HIM THE RIGHT, BUT THIS DOESN'T MAKE IT RIGHT!) [www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/August-2001/No-Regrets/]

Fact: In a 2001 profile, a writer quotes Ayers as saying, "I think there will be another mass political movement, because I believe that the kind of injustice that is built into our world will not go quietly into the night." [Chicago magazine, August 2001 online edition]

Fact: In his 2001 memoir, "Fugitive Days," Ayers writes of the time he took part in bombing the Pentagon. "Everything was absolutely ideal on the day I bombed the Pentagon. The sky was blue; the birds were singing. And the bastards were finally going to get what was coming to them."

Fact: In 2008, Ayers again denies he was ever a terrorist, writing on his blog: "The September 11 attacks were acts of terrorism, and the U.S. bombings in Viet Nam for a decade were acts of terrorism. Terrorism is never justifiable, even in a just cause . . . I've never advocated terrorism, never participated in it, never defended it. The U.S. government, by contrast, does it routinely and defends the use of it in its own cause consistently." [billayers.wordpress.com/2008/04/page/2/]

Fact: In the 2008 presidential race, Obama downplays his association with Ayers, saying that he is just a "guy who lives in my neighborhood." [The Washington Post, Oct. 7, 2008]

Fact: David Axelrod, Obama's chief strategist, attempted to downplay the Obama/Ayers relationship: "Bill Ayers lives in his neighborhood. Their kids attend the same school . . . They're certainly friendly; they know each other, as anyone whose kids go to school together." [Politico.com, Ben Smith, Feb. 26, 2008]

Fact: Obama's children never attended school with the Ayers children. Obama's children are ages 9 and 6. Ayers and Dohrn have two adult children, and they adopted a son from their fellow Weather Underground terrorist Kathy Boudin. That son was born in 1981.

Fact: Chicago's Hyde Park residents speak of Obama and Ayers' relationship. "Neighbors said it's only natural that Obama would know Ayers and Dohrn, who often open their homes for gatherings filled with lively discussions about politics, arts, and social issues. Obama and his wife ' are part of our neighborhood and part of our social circle,' said Elizabeth Chandler, a neighbor of Ayers'." [ChicagoTribune.com, April 17, 2008]

Pretty scary stuff wouldn't you agree? I'm sorry, but the people you hang around and associate with professionally and otherwise, say a lot about a person. I don't care how much people want to ignore this fact. It's a fact whether or not Obama lies about it or not.

Certain people also don't seem mind Obama's late-term abortion stance I guess because they don't consider babies people, but those fighting a war they personally don't believe in are people. When does the value for human life begin if not at birth?

Maybe too many women have had abortions and think it's ok to assauge their own guilt? I just don't get it. Abortion is murder. Plain and simple. Deal with it. You know it's true. Stop living in denial.

Get some counseling to help deal with it, but don't act like it doesn't matter because to those of us who choose to value life it matters a great deal. It should matter to you too as I'm sure it does if you ever had the guts to admit it too.

I even heard that Newsweek was trying to imply that Catholics are supporting Obama because Catholics believe that social welfare is more important than abortion and the rights of unborn babies.

Apparently Newsweek hasn't had access to the Catholic Church's very pro-life video that I've shared and will share again just in case any of them happen to stumble upon my site: www.catholicvote.com. Hello? Doesn't this seem to contradict that bastion of liberal thought?

I don't feel like linking to the article because I don't like to give credence or publicity to those I find foolish. You'll notice I don't mention my family or men I'm seeing lately either. Although I did slip up last night.

Don't worry. Nothing happened other than a long drive to clear my head. At least that's what I'm writing here. LOL I'll never tell. Hopefully he won't either. LOL

Seriously though, nothing happened other than some stupidity that was silly and fun.

Have to admit I make myself LOL at the crazy stuff I get myself into.

Am under consideration for a New York based TV talk show to discuss an issue that has plagued my family and me for years. The ONLY reason I'm not going to publicly out them is I forgot I had the Governor's Conference to work the same day of the potential interview.

Lucky for them. You can tell them so Grace. I know you will. Thanks. Appreciate it sis. Love ya. Don't be a stranger. Or on second thought, maybe, Yes. Do. Be. A. Stranger.

Thank you. I've given you the family, what else do you want? I'm all out of relationships for you to taint.

Back to politics. Where was I? Oh yeah, Obama believers. The other thing I don't think Democrats and others who don't attend church services on a regular basis understand is that despite everything they want to believe, the teachings and mentoring of your pastor directly affects your thinking and beliefs.

If you are constantly taught that America is bad, white people are terrible, (I'm using the simplest terms to describe his beliefs rather than quoting because I don't want to give him any more credence than this) and everything else that Pastor Wright has been "caught" saying, then you're going to hold those beliefs. 

Obama's Pastor: God Damn America, U.S. to Blame for 9/11 Have you forgotten this fact so quickly?

Why do you think people go to school? To learn thoughts and concepts and facts that their teacher is presenting. Same thing with attending church.

That's why I go. To learn positive ways of dealing with life and it's issues. Last week didn't experience that so much, but hey, gotta give the man a break. His daughter got married the night before and a DVD teaching a message seemed the best way he knew to take a day off from preaching the next day.

Don't happen to agree, but that's probably just me. Everyone's entitled to have an off day and I know many people who did get something out of it. I just wasn't in that head space and walked out half way through. Spent the whole day crying, but that's another story for another day. It wasn't the sermon if that's what you're thinking.

Getting back to my point, that's what's great about America too. Freedom of religion. Freedom of choice. Freedom period. For those of you from other countries wondering why so many Americans still choose to live in America if we think it's so messed up, it's because we enjoy freedoms that perhaps many of you will never, or have never experienced.

We also experience a lot of other bad stuff that you don't, like racism and racial divides, but overall, this is a great country. Why else do you think we have so many illegal aliens fleeing here on a daily basis from all over the world?

Hello! Don't believe everything Michael Moore puts out. Over here many of us think he's crazy and if you watch An American Carol you'll see why. Totally funny movie and true by the way.

Oh, and speaking of crazy beliefs, did you all know that Barack Obama, yes, that man, wants to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants? Just thought I'd share because that is so stupid to me and is just opening us up to more terrorists like those who lived here before 9/11.

Plus, validating their illegal status without the requirements that everyone else who applies to live here legally has to go through. GIVE ME A BREAK! Heavy sigh.

Where's the justice for those who actually learn about our country, take the test, pass and are proud to participate in our country as naturalized citizens? What about those who have to wait for visas just to continue living here? I don't get it.

Don't believe it? Here's a little taste of upcoming TV ads designed to reveal that fact:

Obama's Plan: Driver's Licenses for illegals

Since so many people only believe what they see on TV, maybe ads like these will wake them up. Apparently that's what helped Hilary win. Revealing exactly what Obama really believes. Here's an excerpt from a site that states this:

Exposing the Truth

Hillary Clinton was late in recognizing the threat Obama posed to her campaign, but once she did, her strategy worked.

When Hillary exposed Obama publicly, her campaign saw a major turnaround.

Hillary won every major state primary in the nation with the sole exception of Obama’s home state of Illinois.

And even though Obama was “anointed” by the media and Democratic elites, Hillary went on to win eight of the last 10 Democratic primaries.

How did Obama beat Hillary for the nomination?

Well, using a loophole in Democratic rules, he was able to rack up large majorities in caucus states where he outspent and out organized her. (Oh yeah, that. Where did Obama get his funding? Don't you care? Hello! What planet are you living on?)

But in large, contested states she won almost every time. Why? Because when Democrats heard what Obama really stood for, they turned on him."

We can only hope that this will happen in the weeks to come. Oh, and for those who think McCain is running negative ads now at least my candidate owns up to his mistakes and apologizes (even when it's not his fault, but those attending his rallys).

Obama? Slick and sick politician to the core and willing to stoop so low its despicable without apology. If you don't apologize, then no one can pin it on you right? GIVE ME A BREAK.

You're wrong. Be a man. Admit it.

May God bless America and pray for our soldiers fighting for a country. Pray for Joe the Plumber too because if Biden can stoop so low as to attack him on national TV what else is next for him? I guess having an independent, market-based opinion will soon be crushed if the Obama thugocracy continues to have their way.

Good News! Thanks for praying if you did...

Just heard this morning that Dwayne's memory was affected by the trauma, but other than a chipped tailbone he's going to be ok. Just recovering in the hospital. Please continue to keep him in your prayers for a full recovery.

Thank you!

Crosswalk devotional by Melanie Chitwood - it's so good!

I just read this story written by Author/Speaker Melanie Chitwood and thought it was very appropriate for my life right now. I hope it encourages you too. This blog post is from my daily free devotional from Crosswalk (meaning I haven't written it.)

Just an aside. I've just found our cities new country station and got to tell you, forgot how much I love country music! It's got me in such a good mood. I know, corny as all get out, but what can I say? I have eclectic music taste. Hope those of you who hit the Eagle Rock Music Festival had fun!

Back to what I was saying before... (isn't that such a female trait to carry on multiple thoughts at once? LOL!)

A lot of times the devotionals apply to women with children and those who are married which I just accept and realize I can learn from because it's interesting to see what married women struggle with seeing as I'm single. This story was one of those.

All about being gentle in your marriage relationship. I want that quality in ALL my relationships. God help me to become more and more like you please. Say a prayer for me if you think about it too ok? I'm ready to meet my husband. God, are you listening?:)

I've been good! I'm ready for my life partner. What do you think God? I aint getting any younger. LOL But got to say, am getting better (in certain ways - just lost 4.4 lbs going to Weight Watchers for a week! It's time to shed the pounds and get back to my old self.):) Time for discipline and commitment like Chris Howard kept saying. I'm listening Chris, I'm listening! Now to apply it! (whoops, there I go again. Back to the devotional...)

I've just copied and pasted the entire thing so you can see if it's something you might be interested in signing up for too. I believe you can just click through and sign up somewhere on the site. I don't remember how I found it, but I love it! Really gets my morning going on the right track.

Sending all of you lots of love and gentleness! Have a great day. I plan to.

God bless you! Now, without further ado here's today's devotional - enjoy the read!

Encouragement for Today Daily Devotional
Welcome to Encouragement for Today Daily Devotional, a free devotional from Crosswalk.com, the world's largest Christian website. We honor your privacy and time. If this newsletter no longer meets your needs, please use the unsubscribe link at the bottom of this newsletter and you will be removed immediately.     

           

 

October 9, 2007

 A Gentle Breeze or a Sledge Hammer

By Melanie Chitwood

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)

Devotion:

Gentleness is part of being feminine - part of being a woman, and God made us distinctly different from men on purpose! God wants us to bring our gentleness to our marriages, to love our husbands with the tender love of God. Our tenderness woos our husbands and allows them to be vulnerable in return.

We can show our husbands gentleness in many ways--a soft touch, a sweet smile, a kind deed, and a caring tone of voice. We show gentleness when we are considerate, patient, understanding, forgiving and not easily offended or irritated.

Think about the opposite of gentle--harsh, pushy, insistent, demanding, caustic, and argumentative. Are you more likely to respond to your husband in gentleness or harshness?

Sometimes I think we fear being gentle because we fear we'll appear weak or vulnerable. We see in Scripture that God is both a mighty warrior and a tender Shepherd. In Isaiah 40:10 and 11 we read, "See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power ...He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart" (NIV).

In the same way a woman can be both gentle toward her husband and strong. Consider the ways of a mother with her child; she is the one who scoops her child into her arms and hugs him tighter than tight, and she's also the one who is fiercely protective of her child's well-being.

As I was discussing the idea of a wife being gentle, an acquaintance shook his head and said, "My wife makes me think of the blows of a sledge hammer. There's nothing gentle about her. She's like a run-away bus and you just better get out of her way."

Let's practice the application steps below. Let's watch our marriages flourish as we practice being more like the caress of a gentle breeze rather than the blows of a sledge hammer.

Dear Lord, Thank You, Heavenly Father, that You are both a mighty Warrior and a tender Shepherd. Help me to be a wife who is both strong and gentle. Fill me with Your Spirit and make me gentle like You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

What a Husband Needs from His Wife by Melanie Chitwood

For more on marriage issues visit the Growthtrac website

Do You Know Him?

 Application Steps: 

Enjoy God's quiet presence and tender love.

Don't let harshness become a bad habit. Begin to replace it with gentleness.

Practice patience.

Refrain from interrupting, correcting or nagging your husband.

Think before you speak. Do you really need to say what you're about to say?

Spend time with friends or family who have a gentle spirit and observe.

Reflections: 

How do you think being gentle helps your marriage? How does harshness hinder your marriage?

Do you have any fears about being gentle toward your husband? Be honest before the Lord and ask Him to give you His gentleness.

Power Verses: 

Proverbs 15: 1 "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." (NAS)

Matthew 11:29, "'Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.'"(NIV)

 

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org

 

Oh happy day...Random Sharp Objects, Harvest Home, LA Louver

By Joy A. Kennelly

I must share that although I'm not big on live theatre, my friend Esther Friedman's show, Random Sharp Objects, last night was really quite good - almost surprisingly so because I had no idea what to expect at all. I've linked to the review so you can learn more. I think it runs two more weeks so catch it if you can.

I've known her for years and have never seen her perform except in the infamous "What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas" commercial where she's giggling with friends in a limo.

We bumped into each other again at the Independent Television Festival where she and her friend were there as finalists for something or something like that (I forget and since I'm not their publicist and just sharing as a friend I don't have to get it right! Esther - add a comment at the end with the correct info ok?)

To make them both feel good I spoke to the publicist manning the red carpet at the festival and enabled them to do some publicity shots with I think one of their producers (again, not sure of the facts, just sharing as a friend) which can be seen here. They were thrilled and it made me feel good to help them out.

Ever since then she's been inviting me to see her show, but I have been so busy I wasn't traveling to Hollywood too much. I had a night free last night and since the theatre was right down the street from my good friend Shana, I thought what the hey.

I'm so glad I did! I'd had a very emotionally stressful morning and the play was funny. It was also very poignant too. Here's the blurb on the play from the postcard so you can check it out:

"Esther grew up mixed up 1/2 white, 1/2 black, 1/2 Jewish, 1/2 Christian. She must deal with her past to change her future. Hali comes form a good Jewish middle class home with some loose floor boards. She explores why she never fit in and sought her thrills outside.

In Random Sharp Objects these two women examine their lives, seeking answers to such profound questions as why Hali is attracted to bums and why Esther does not date black men. Together they peel the onion of illusions."

Here's a quote from Esther in the Jewish Journal article written on the play too:

"The play has proved cathartic for both actresses. 'I kept many of these stories secret for years, because they were so painful," Friedman says. "But keeping secrets can kill your spirit.'"

I could so relate to Esther's story! It was kind of comforting to realize I'm not the only one with these life experiences and to be honest I almost cried when I left the theatre it moved me so much. Esther really captures and shares what life was like growing up mixed in New York inhabiting all the characters of her family so well.

I especially loved the diatribe on her padunk-a-dunk (butt) which until this play I had actually never noticed! Not only because I'm a woman and don't make it a habit to check out other women's behinds, but also because Esther is so much more than her butt! However, it was very interesting to see what kind of issues were raised growing up because of her shape. Also, her mixed heritage.

I highly recommend checking it out if you can. She's an undiscovered talent who deserves a closer look. Sending you lots of love Esther! Hali, her counter-point, is great too! Here's some love for you too ok?

Enjoyed visiting with Shana afterward and introducing her to my South Bay girlfriend. Shana keeps promising me she'll come visit me, but I doubt it! Too far and she's way too busy too. (how do you like all the "too's"?)

Today hit the Harvest Home reunion which was interesting. Hard to believe I ever lived there to be honest, but it's the truth. Saw some old friends, made some new ones and also received a video on the place which I intend to share around. It's cool to see they have their marketing together.

A flood of memories came rushing back - the sewing classes, the nutrition classes, the birthing classes, having to cook for 10 women at least once a week, the chores, the room I lived in, my thoughts and dreams for the couple who would adopt my son, and the discipline and growing up I did there too. Also remembering producing my film festival from there! What chaos that part was. A lot went on there for me in more ways than one.

I'll never forget hating the 10pm curfew and having to do chores even when I was sick because they wanted me to experience what it would be like to have a child and be sick and responsible for the welfare of my household. I also remember all the times I had to run to the hospital for various complications - all the flus I had and all the sadness of that time.

My life is so completely different now it's amazing. God is good!

Drove around looking at some potential new places afterwards and then popped into LA Louver to check out their art on display. Hard to believe such an amazing art gallery is in Venice, CA within walking distance to the beach. Quite stunning venue. I love modern, contemporary style.

My favorite artist's pieces were Michael C. McMillen's sign painters' enamel;  Charles Garabedian's Willie Snake which is so huge it takes up almost one entire wall of the cavernous space;  Don Suggs Arc of Hours; Dan Ho's My Green Dreams (he isn't listed for some reason); and my favorite, Rebecca Campbell's Tangle , which I was surprised was so inexpensive comparatively. 

I was expecting a much higher price point because it's so visually arresting. Her other smaller works are wonderful and clustered together next to this huge piece which measures 102 x 76.5. 

I think she's absolutely brilliant and extremely gifted as an artist. Such variety in style and her images are so life-like. I would have Tangle in my house in a heartbeat if I had the type of house this piece deserves. It's so expansive and draws you in to take a closer look. One feels like you're peeking in on a real person taking a nap it's so life-like. You definitely must go to see this piece if you have time. They don't showcase the current exhibits online so you need to go visit regardless!

There was also a David Hockney on display in the reception area that is fun. For some reason though I resonated most with Rebecca Campbell's work. The entire gallery is filled with amazing artists and you'd do yourself a huge favor if you took the time to visit. Highly, highly, highly recommend it.

Okay, that's all. Just had to share. I need to hurry up and get ready to go out. Chow baby! 

I always thought this was true! JUST KIDDING!

Just found this survey on Yahoo and thought it was too good not to share here. What's interesting in my family is that my middle sister was the one who went to gifted classes, not me. Oh well, I must have coached her into it -- according to this article.:)

The other interesting fact about IQ is that it's been determined that the success of your marriage will benefit from your spouse being within 10 points of your IQ. Guess that's why I'm still single - I haven't met someone smart enough yet! JUST KIDDING!

IQ was just one of 29 factors that go into determining a successful marriage according to the founder of E Harmony, but since this blog is about IQ I thought it was important to mention it as one aspect here. Enjoy the read - it's not my words, but the authors below.

Study: Older Siblings Have Higher IQs

Andrea Thompson
LiveScience Staff Writer
LiveScience.comThu Jun 21,  2:05 PM ET

Being the oldest child in the family has its perks: later bedtimes, no hand-me-downs, and, according to a new study, a higher IQ.

The study, detailed in the June 22 issue of the journal Science, analyzed the IQs of nearly 250,000 Norwegian 18- and 19-year-old draftees and found that older siblings had higher scores than younger siblings.

Another study, by the same authors of the new Science study but published recently in the journal Intelligence, looked at more than 100,000 Norwegian brothers and found that first-borns on average had an IQ 2.3 points higher than their younger brothers (the IQs were all taken when the brothers were 18 or 19, so they compare the older brother’s score at that age to the younger brother’s score when he reached that same age).

“These are probably the two most important studies on birth order and intelligence in the last 75 years,” said psychologist Frank Sulloway of the University of California, Berkeley, who wrote an analysis of the latest study for Science.

Social order

Unlike earlier studies that compared the intelligence of first-born children to those born later (and that also found that first-borns have higher IQs), the Science study looked at the social order of the children in a family, which does not always correspond to actual birth order in cases where there is a death in the family.

By comparing children who lost an older sibling, for instance, and so were treated as the eldest child, to those who were actually the first-born of their family, the authors showed that the former group had similar IQs to the latter group.

“The second-borns who lost an older sibling are becoming like a first-born” in terms of IQ, Sulloway said.

Sulloway says the new research rules out criticisms of earlier studies that argue that the findings were an artifact of other factors in the data, such as family size and parental IQ.

Reversing trend

Psychologists have a few theories to explain the new results. One proposes that older siblings “tutor” their younger brothers and sisters, which reinforces their own learning, though direct evidence for this particular theory is lacking.

Paradoxically, younger siblings start out in life with higher IQs: Because younger children haven’t yet mastered the skills their older siblings have (for example, language or math skills), they actually degrade the learning environment of their elder brother or sister.

“Every time you add a child, you’re diluting the intellectual environment of everyone in the family,” Sulloway said.

But eventually, around the age of 12, this trend reverses and the older siblings overtake their younger siblings.

Sulloway points out that though older siblings may win out in IQ, the time they devote to studying is time spent elsewhere by their younger siblings, who may excel in other areas such as the arts or sports.

Top 10 Mysteries of the Mind Vote: The Greatest Modern Minds Recipe for Genius Revealed Original Story: Study: Older Siblings Have Higher IQs

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