My husband and I were lucky enought to be part of an event this weekend. It was a Halloween Bash hosted by some families who attend St. Francis Cabrini school. We don't have our children there though I am proud to say I am an alumni. We do attend their Fundraising night in Spring (thanks to the Lemlers) and were a part of a group that helped the school raise over $3000. Wow! Just by bidding on this night...Fright night had arrived.
It was a blast! Todd went as Mr. Clean. I know many of you who know him can totally see that. I went as Mrs. Clean, in a sense. I was actually a French Maid, fish net stockings and all but you can see how that would go together. Other great couple costumes included the Lime and Tequilla bottle, the banana and gorilla, the bottle of Jack Daniels and Coke, the patient with her hind end hanging out and fellow Doctor Harry Fingermaster, lots of priests and nuns, 4 ghostbusters, and a bunch of "pot"heads. And one man who did not really even need to wear a costume because he looked so much like Todd Palin...he was amazingly similair. For a church auction, it was a bit on the wild side! And don't get me wrong, I am certainly not complaining. I enjoyed seeing the outfits but more so the laughter and all out belly rolling that took place throughout the night. I am sure it took a tremendous amount of planning. It sure was a success...well worth the cost of admission.
I am sure you have all said the same...when a hurricane hits, a tornado, a local family with tragedy...we all want to help. It is our human nature to want to help others. Saturday night in the midst of all the fun, money was being given to a wonderful school. A school, though at times I disliked, helped me develop my values. It reflected much of what I feel that Shoe night is about. Yes, you need to get a "costume" (shoes, a jacket, jewlery, etc) but really it's about getting together, laughing out loud, and helping out the community in which one lives. I can't wait to see you there!
Paula
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Monday, October 20, 2008
Brilliant!
There are so many reasons why I love being a woman. This past weekend brought to light some of them...1. we are often creative when given the time and resources. 2. we can change our minds and still be right and usually better off.
I was happy to take part in 2 girlie gatherings Friday and Saturday. Friday night was the patron license hunters...dare I say this...wet dream! OK, I said it but let me tell you why. Micky S. held this event with purses, jewelry, sunglasses, and shoes for sale...plus Julie B's Tastefully Simple...and the wine, food, and fun to boot! The group was eclectic yet cohesive. We shared ideas and past on stories. Trista came up with this creative and brilliant idea... Party night is Dec 6th. We plan on having things there to raffle/auction. We all have purses at home that we have bought and either never used or have used gently. Why not bring them to the event and have them for sale for $10 or so with all proceeds going to Chix! What a great idea. I went home that night and saw an example of just that sitting in my closet. I can't wait to bring it! And no, it is not my very used purse with the sticker on the front that says "Make out, not war". I did happen to buy a new purse Friday. Despite my children begging me to get the purse organizer on TV for $49.95, I bought a big chunky brown and black one. I love it and will not be giving that one away- thank you Teresa (www.bagtiqueparty.com). There will also be a little something being raffled off at the party from Teresa's never-used bagtique collection!
Saturday was Simply Indulgent. That is the name of the company Julie Craig owns. She makes homemade gourmet chocolates...need I say more! Kelly G. won this day at the Kewaskum Athletic Complex Fundraiser. I, along with Kelly and several other women, spent some time with Julie learning the art of fine chocolate making...peanut butter cups, truffles, chocolate covered cherries, spoons dipped in chocolate. I was in heaven. Oh, and there was good wine too! Kathy, Mrs. VP of the Shoe Hunting Club, came up with a brilliant idea. This idea in place of our prior thought about prizes (that's where the changing minds comes to play) I don't want to completely give it away but for those who are winners of the contests the evening of the shoe party should be very satiated after receiving their prizes! The night was topped off by joining our spouses for a nice dinner and games. Julie is a true talent! She was kind enough to open her home to a few strangers and put forth a tremendous party. We will be honored if her presence is made the night of the event! If you are interested in ordering her chocolate, let me know and I will give you her contact information. Oh and by the way, it's Monday. Just 2 days, barely 48 hours after we left the party. I have 2 pieces left.
So Sunday was my day of rest...well, I just about killed myself cleaning floors in my house and felt like I had aged 30 years over night BUT I am very blessed to say that I ended my day with several hours being spent snuggling with my beautiful boys on the couch just hanging out. And that truly is the absolute best thing about being a woman...I get to be the mom of Jordan and Andrew.
Sweet succeses.
Paula
I was happy to take part in 2 girlie gatherings Friday and Saturday. Friday night was the patron license hunters...dare I say this...wet dream! OK, I said it but let me tell you why. Micky S. held this event with purses, jewelry, sunglasses, and shoes for sale...plus Julie B's Tastefully Simple...and the wine, food, and fun to boot! The group was eclectic yet cohesive. We shared ideas and past on stories. Trista came up with this creative and brilliant idea... Party night is Dec 6th. We plan on having things there to raffle/auction. We all have purses at home that we have bought and either never used or have used gently. Why not bring them to the event and have them for sale for $10 or so with all proceeds going to Chix! What a great idea. I went home that night and saw an example of just that sitting in my closet. I can't wait to bring it! And no, it is not my very used purse with the sticker on the front that says "Make out, not war". I did happen to buy a new purse Friday. Despite my children begging me to get the purse organizer on TV for $49.95, I bought a big chunky brown and black one. I love it and will not be giving that one away- thank you Teresa (www.bagtiqueparty.com). There will also be a little something being raffled off at the party from Teresa's never-used bagtique collection!
Saturday was Simply Indulgent. That is the name of the company Julie Craig owns. She makes homemade gourmet chocolates...need I say more! Kelly G. won this day at the Kewaskum Athletic Complex Fundraiser. I, along with Kelly and several other women, spent some time with Julie learning the art of fine chocolate making...peanut butter cups, truffles, chocolate covered cherries, spoons dipped in chocolate. I was in heaven. Oh, and there was good wine too! Kathy, Mrs. VP of the Shoe Hunting Club, came up with a brilliant idea. This idea in place of our prior thought about prizes (that's where the changing minds comes to play) I don't want to completely give it away but for those who are winners of the contests the evening of the shoe party should be very satiated after receiving their prizes! The night was topped off by joining our spouses for a nice dinner and games. Julie is a true talent! She was kind enough to open her home to a few strangers and put forth a tremendous party. We will be honored if her presence is made the night of the event! If you are interested in ordering her chocolate, let me know and I will give you her contact information. Oh and by the way, it's Monday. Just 2 days, barely 48 hours after we left the party. I have 2 pieces left.
So Sunday was my day of rest...well, I just about killed myself cleaning floors in my house and felt like I had aged 30 years over night BUT I am very blessed to say that I ended my day with several hours being spent snuggling with my beautiful boys on the couch just hanging out. And that truly is the absolute best thing about being a woman...I get to be the mom of Jordan and Andrew.
Sweet succeses.
Paula
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Let the Birds Sing!
Wednesdays are normally my day off from work. Yesterday was an exception. The morning actually went by pretty quickly while it was pouring outside. The last few hours of my work day, however, drained me. Despite clearing skies outside, cancer diagnoses seemed to cloud my afternoon inside. Of course, I am not the one being diagnosed. It is the worst part of my job. I'm amazed at how each person manages the news. By work days end, I almost feel like I do not want to leave. I'm one of those people who likes to leave only when my work is done. I feel today like my work is not even close to being done. On my drive to Cedarburg, I pray.
Wednesday nights, one day per month, is Bunco Night with the girls. Tonight I'm worried it may be hard to transition to this complete night of fun. We planned on starting the night at Morton's (if you've never been there, it is a must). As I come closer to the restaurant, I am greeted with the most awesome flock of singing birds who have gathered in the vines that are growing along the building. I mean this was a jungle! I smile and breathe with ease. You see, months ago I had decided that anytime I had seen a bird who crossed my path or a group a birds that was God's reminder of the women in my life. Here I was being reminded those women diagnosed are strong. I could leave my day job behind for a few hours and enjoy the company of fun and entertaining friends!
Bunco is always educational. The night's conversation involved mostly politics, something I'm currently not a huge fan of! We debated some hot topics. Relationships with significant others. Our kids and their current stages. High school yearbooks came out. Can you say "really big hair"? It was a timely topic however. Next year will be my 20th year reunion. Just this past week a few of my classmates started a website- www.eastandwest89.com- it's been great to see just how fast the "word of mouth by email" is going! Oh...we didn't play bunco (I hope my male counter parts aren't reading this). It totally dismisses anything I wrote about in the "Trap Night" blog entry! But we did try to bring out other games...which we never played. There was just way too much to talk about. For goodness sakes, there is an election just around the corner and we were ready to solve the world's problems! So I would say we did the world some good last night despite not playing bunco. I brought home my $5 which I now will invest in our failing economy.
Thanks girls! The bunco team will be there on Shoe night. And at that party, the theme will be properly played out with lots and lots of cool shoes AND money to help out those people who need support of all kinds with a cancer diagnosis. It could be as simple as listening to singing birds.
Peace.
Paula
Wednesday nights, one day per month, is Bunco Night with the girls. Tonight I'm worried it may be hard to transition to this complete night of fun. We planned on starting the night at Morton's (if you've never been there, it is a must). As I come closer to the restaurant, I am greeted with the most awesome flock of singing birds who have gathered in the vines that are growing along the building. I mean this was a jungle! I smile and breathe with ease. You see, months ago I had decided that anytime I had seen a bird who crossed my path or a group a birds that was God's reminder of the women in my life. Here I was being reminded those women diagnosed are strong. I could leave my day job behind for a few hours and enjoy the company of fun and entertaining friends!
Bunco is always educational. The night's conversation involved mostly politics, something I'm currently not a huge fan of! We debated some hot topics. Relationships with significant others. Our kids and their current stages. High school yearbooks came out. Can you say "really big hair"? It was a timely topic however. Next year will be my 20th year reunion. Just this past week a few of my classmates started a website- www.eastandwest89.com- it's been great to see just how fast the "word of mouth by email" is going! Oh...we didn't play bunco (I hope my male counter parts aren't reading this). It totally dismisses anything I wrote about in the "Trap Night" blog entry! But we did try to bring out other games...which we never played. There was just way too much to talk about. For goodness sakes, there is an election just around the corner and we were ready to solve the world's problems! So I would say we did the world some good last night despite not playing bunco. I brought home my $5 which I now will invest in our failing economy.
Thanks girls! The bunco team will be there on Shoe night. And at that party, the theme will be properly played out with lots and lots of cool shoes AND money to help out those people who need support of all kinds with a cancer diagnosis. It could be as simple as listening to singing birds.
Peace.
Paula
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Save the TaTas
I'm up to my boobs in breasts this month. As you know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. In doing my job as a Nurse Practitioner, I know women are very concerned about their risk. I know each of us have been touched by several women in our lives who have been diagnosed. In case you're interested, let me give you some of the facts:
1. You have a 1 in 10 lifetime risk of breast cancer. So take 10 women at the age of 80, 1 of them would have had breast cancer in her life.
2. The average age of diagnosis is 61. This means 50% are less than 61 and 50% more.
3. You are at increased risk if you have a first degree relative (mom, sis, child) who has been diagnosed, you have been on hormones, or you have highly dense breast tissue(called glandular tissue) compared to fat tissue.
4. You can attempt preventing the disease by having your weight controlled, being physically active, limiting your alcohol consumption, not smoking, having a baby before age 30, breast feeding, and avoiding hormone replacement. In some major high risk situations, certain preventative meds or even prophylactic surgery (having the breasts removed) has been done.
5. If the cancer is caught in early stages, you have a 98% five year survival rate.
6. Mammograms are recommended to women 40 years and older. If you are at increased risk, they may be started earlier. MRIs or ultrasounds are also used.
Now it's time for the interactive part of the blog. Do a breast exam! You should do them monthly after your period. How? Sitting/standing up and laying down. Showers or tubs are a great place. Often this is the part the husband has no problem assisting you in. Don't forget every piece of breast tissue including your armpits! I always say that the breast tissue to me feels like cottage cheese and you are looking for a marble, a pea, a pebble in the cottage cheese. Everybodys' boobs feel different so get to know what yours feels like. And remember to just look...no redness, rash or dimpling should be noted. There is a device right now that Curves and Olivia Newton John are promoting called Liv Aid. Mindy, owner of West Bend Curves, introduced me to it. It helps when you do your exam- go to Curves if you are interested. If you just come in and check them out, you get one for free- no need to sign up. They even have something called "Girls Night In", an evening packed full of discussion and entertainment!
We know as women how important those tatas are. Though they certainly don't define who we are (flat, large, flopsy, augmented...), they set us apart. I have found no greater joy than going from a AA cup size to DD in a matter of months to feed my children, engorged one day as all get out, prancing around in front of the mirror imaging Hugh Hefner was going to call me at any minute! Oh, they are gone now but, boy, that was fun while it lasted for the day! And luckily I do not have the boobs like the lady in the National Geographic special- have you seen it? She is naked bending over this pot of rice just stirring away. All of a sudden in back of her comes one of her kids. I SAID FROM THE BACK. He grabs hold of her breast and pulls it behind her to take a drink and she just keeps stirring. Amazing. What was more amazing was this colony she was living in was perfect. She was the master. She had several husbands who did almost everything for her. Hmmmm.
OK, back to breast cancer. Chix for a Cause is a great organization. They help people with all types of cancer. I know they have helped several who have had breast cancer. I remember Peggy Anderson telling me one day that she thought Ty Pennington was coming to her house to build her a new home. In fact, it was the Chix organization surprising her with some much needed cash during her battling days. She is a true survivor by the way.
Which brings me to the Shoe Hunt. I am so excited. I have received several confirmations for the evening which means there will be women out hunting for shoes and accessories very soon! There will be women gathering together, spending some time together, laughing, loving, living. Yeah! It's not about the shoe- height, size, color, cheap....don't matter! See you there!
Want a cool shirt that makes a statement during October. Go to www.savethetatas.com
Paula
A brown eyed girl too!
1. You have a 1 in 10 lifetime risk of breast cancer. So take 10 women at the age of 80, 1 of them would have had breast cancer in her life.
2. The average age of diagnosis is 61. This means 50% are less than 61 and 50% more.
3. You are at increased risk if you have a first degree relative (mom, sis, child) who has been diagnosed, you have been on hormones, or you have highly dense breast tissue(called glandular tissue) compared to fat tissue.
4. You can attempt preventing the disease by having your weight controlled, being physically active, limiting your alcohol consumption, not smoking, having a baby before age 30, breast feeding, and avoiding hormone replacement. In some major high risk situations, certain preventative meds or even prophylactic surgery (having the breasts removed) has been done.
5. If the cancer is caught in early stages, you have a 98% five year survival rate.
6. Mammograms are recommended to women 40 years and older. If you are at increased risk, they may be started earlier. MRIs or ultrasounds are also used.
Now it's time for the interactive part of the blog. Do a breast exam! You should do them monthly after your period. How? Sitting/standing up and laying down. Showers or tubs are a great place. Often this is the part the husband has no problem assisting you in. Don't forget every piece of breast tissue including your armpits! I always say that the breast tissue to me feels like cottage cheese and you are looking for a marble, a pea, a pebble in the cottage cheese. Everybodys' boobs feel different so get to know what yours feels like. And remember to just look...no redness, rash or dimpling should be noted. There is a device right now that Curves and Olivia Newton John are promoting called Liv Aid. Mindy, owner of West Bend Curves, introduced me to it. It helps when you do your exam- go to Curves if you are interested. If you just come in and check them out, you get one for free- no need to sign up. They even have something called "Girls Night In", an evening packed full of discussion and entertainment!
We know as women how important those tatas are. Though they certainly don't define who we are (flat, large, flopsy, augmented...), they set us apart. I have found no greater joy than going from a AA cup size to DD in a matter of months to feed my children, engorged one day as all get out, prancing around in front of the mirror imaging Hugh Hefner was going to call me at any minute! Oh, they are gone now but, boy, that was fun while it lasted for the day! And luckily I do not have the boobs like the lady in the National Geographic special- have you seen it? She is naked bending over this pot of rice just stirring away. All of a sudden in back of her comes one of her kids. I SAID FROM THE BACK. He grabs hold of her breast and pulls it behind her to take a drink and she just keeps stirring. Amazing. What was more amazing was this colony she was living in was perfect. She was the master. She had several husbands who did almost everything for her. Hmmmm.
OK, back to breast cancer. Chix for a Cause is a great organization. They help people with all types of cancer. I know they have helped several who have had breast cancer. I remember Peggy Anderson telling me one day that she thought Ty Pennington was coming to her house to build her a new home. In fact, it was the Chix organization surprising her with some much needed cash during her battling days. She is a true survivor by the way.
Which brings me to the Shoe Hunt. I am so excited. I have received several confirmations for the evening which means there will be women out hunting for shoes and accessories very soon! There will be women gathering together, spending some time together, laughing, loving, living. Yeah! It's not about the shoe- height, size, color, cheap....don't matter! See you there!
Want a cool shirt that makes a statement during October. Go to www.savethetatas.com
Paula
A brown eyed girl too!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Hump Day
I love Wednesdays. It's my day off from work. It's amazing to think that after only 2 days of work, I need a day off but it always comes as a relief. I'm shocked by the complete disarray my house is already in. So it usually starts with a lot of straightening up. I get to take the kids to school. Then it's off to the Y for a swim. That's when complete peace sets in. I think it has to do with the breathing I do with each stroke.
I usually head off to the store after that. That is when I am reminded of the wisdom I am surrounded by. You see, Wednesdays are senior citizen discount days, at least in the town of West Bend. They have earned their right to receive an additional 10-15% at each store they enter. Brilliant thinking on the stores part by the way! These ladies are expert shoppers! They find the deals. They go out in packs. They compliment each other on the items and for sure the deals they find. They also hold the gift to buy more than one. If a pair of shoes fit perfectly, buy them in every color. Again, brilliant. Today I parked in one of the last slots at Kohls...on a Wednesday...on October 1st...The store was full of extremely wise shoppers and I was there to learn.
I also cherish the absolute lack of being rushed for time. As I finished my shopping spree, I patiently waited in line as the lady in front of me asked the cashier to wrap each of her candles with paper individually...10 candles...12:28...in 12 minutes I need to be at my son's school to help in math which, if I'm lucky, is 15 minutes away. Sure, take your time. I am in no hurry. I'm reminded of my swim earlier that day...breathe.
We can all learn from this generation- go for the deals, go out in packs, and go for more than one when the fit is perfect! Most importantly, make and take the time. It's worth every breath. And for those of you in that generation, I thank you.
Peace,
Paula
I usually head off to the store after that. That is when I am reminded of the wisdom I am surrounded by. You see, Wednesdays are senior citizen discount days, at least in the town of West Bend. They have earned their right to receive an additional 10-15% at each store they enter. Brilliant thinking on the stores part by the way! These ladies are expert shoppers! They find the deals. They go out in packs. They compliment each other on the items and for sure the deals they find. They also hold the gift to buy more than one. If a pair of shoes fit perfectly, buy them in every color. Again, brilliant. Today I parked in one of the last slots at Kohls...on a Wednesday...on October 1st...The store was full of extremely wise shoppers and I was there to learn.
I also cherish the absolute lack of being rushed for time. As I finished my shopping spree, I patiently waited in line as the lady in front of me asked the cashier to wrap each of her candles with paper individually...10 candles...12:28...in 12 minutes I need to be at my son's school to help in math which, if I'm lucky, is 15 minutes away. Sure, take your time. I am in no hurry. I'm reminded of my swim earlier that day...breathe.
We can all learn from this generation- go for the deals, go out in packs, and go for more than one when the fit is perfect! Most importantly, make and take the time. It's worth every breath. And for those of you in that generation, I thank you.
Peace,
Paula
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Closet cleaning
As I write you this evening, I am wearing some fuzzy slippers. Yes, it's that time of year. It seems like just yesterday...well, it was just yesterday that the sun was shining and it was 80 degrees. Today it felt like 50 with full cloud cover. I sit here in red PJ's donned with snow flakes and fuzzy slippers. Time to put the sandals away for a few months.
It's also a perfect time to clean out the closet. That is what I spent a great deal of time doing this weekend. During that time I made a huge discovery. I put the summer clothes away. I sorted through to see what my Fall choices were and if they were still in fashion. I really thought i needed some updates- scarves, belts. I thought I needed some staple items- black pants, white shirt. Come to find out, it was like the Loaves and Fishes story from the Bible. The clothes just kept coming and coming. All they need is a little ironing.
The huge discovery was this- I think this is the year to focus on the shoe as the accessory. I can't be wearing staple items and staple shoes at the same time. Something has got to stand out and I am declaring this year it be the shoes.
The tough thing about shoes is that they often go unnoticed. Rightfully, people generally look people right in the face when conversing. And in most situations, pants cover a good portion of the shoes. Maybe this is why I have such a strong desire for the tucked in pant look to come back. I am determined to get some riding boots this year. I think the trend is slowly making a comeback...and hey (this goes out to all those people who know me well)when I set a trend (ie- rolling up jeans, scrungy in the hair) we know how well it takes off! Setting can be much better than following. I try to not be too much of a trend follower. I clearly remember the day when I had my hair spiked up like Billy Idol's, cut off gloves on like Michael Jackson, and tore up jeans like Madonna. Yes, I managed to get out of the house like that past my parents on a day when my St. Francis Cabrini pupils and I would be headed off to church. God is forgiving.
Though I have this true passion for shoes, my true inspiration for this continues to be uniting amazing women together. Life is far too short to stand here just complaining about what we feel should be done and how to do it. For goodness sakes, my husband has already figured out 1/10 of the school year is over- time flies! Let's just do it. If that means having shoes be your accessory this season, OK. If that means helping out a great organization like Chix for A Cause, even greater! And if it means you take the time to hang out with a few friends and spend some quality time together, that's the best!
I wanted to dedicate this post to Jody Goratowski who died September 23rd. She was 38. While here, she was a fantastic RN, a blast to be goofy in the ER with when I was working there, and a real go-getter. This was a woman who remembered detail, who knew names, who told great stories. She even told me what the secret ingredient was in the ChiChi's salsa (and though I know my salsa buddies know what it is, I'm going to keep it a secret). Her giggles were infectious. Her life courageous. Jody, it seems, had no warning of her death. She will be dearly missed. Though, to my knowledge, Jody did not have a shoe fetish, each convertible I now see reminds me of her spirit!
Peace,
Paula
It's also a perfect time to clean out the closet. That is what I spent a great deal of time doing this weekend. During that time I made a huge discovery. I put the summer clothes away. I sorted through to see what my Fall choices were and if they were still in fashion. I really thought i needed some updates- scarves, belts. I thought I needed some staple items- black pants, white shirt. Come to find out, it was like the Loaves and Fishes story from the Bible. The clothes just kept coming and coming. All they need is a little ironing.
The huge discovery was this- I think this is the year to focus on the shoe as the accessory. I can't be wearing staple items and staple shoes at the same time. Something has got to stand out and I am declaring this year it be the shoes.
The tough thing about shoes is that they often go unnoticed. Rightfully, people generally look people right in the face when conversing. And in most situations, pants cover a good portion of the shoes. Maybe this is why I have such a strong desire for the tucked in pant look to come back. I am determined to get some riding boots this year. I think the trend is slowly making a comeback...and hey (this goes out to all those people who know me well)when I set a trend (ie- rolling up jeans, scrungy in the hair) we know how well it takes off! Setting can be much better than following. I try to not be too much of a trend follower. I clearly remember the day when I had my hair spiked up like Billy Idol's, cut off gloves on like Michael Jackson, and tore up jeans like Madonna. Yes, I managed to get out of the house like that past my parents on a day when my St. Francis Cabrini pupils and I would be headed off to church. God is forgiving.
Though I have this true passion for shoes, my true inspiration for this continues to be uniting amazing women together. Life is far too short to stand here just complaining about what we feel should be done and how to do it. For goodness sakes, my husband has already figured out 1/10 of the school year is over- time flies! Let's just do it. If that means having shoes be your accessory this season, OK. If that means helping out a great organization like Chix for A Cause, even greater! And if it means you take the time to hang out with a few friends and spend some quality time together, that's the best!
I wanted to dedicate this post to Jody Goratowski who died September 23rd. She was 38. While here, she was a fantastic RN, a blast to be goofy in the ER with when I was working there, and a real go-getter. This was a woman who remembered detail, who knew names, who told great stories. She even told me what the secret ingredient was in the ChiChi's salsa (and though I know my salsa buddies know what it is, I'm going to keep it a secret). Her giggles were infectious. Her life courageous. Jody, it seems, had no warning of her death. She will be dearly missed. Though, to my knowledge, Jody did not have a shoe fetish, each convertible I now see reminds me of her spirit!
Peace,
Paula
Sunday, September 21, 2008
God Spent Just A Little More Time with You!
It's Sunday. Our day of rest. I did not go to church. I love my church, Still Waters in Jackson. We had some family over last night and I went for a walk as the sun rose this morning. That was my reason for not going. I did connect with God though. I seem to always see deer whether it be in my car or while I am walking. I wondered a while ago what that may have meant. Was God trying to tell me something by placing these deer in front of me? Well, I decided the deer was being placed to remind me of God's presence in my life. So, today I saw 3 crossing the road just in front of me as I walked onto County Road by the New Fane trails. What a sight! Yes, God, I know you are in my life!
Deer stories are great...well, sometimes! I know all of you who are married or around deer hunters can relate. Like yesterday as I sat around the ball diamond in Beechwood watching my husband play softball. There were times while there that I would be talking with my husband...then another man would appear...the conversation would slowly change to allow the third party to participate in the conversation...before you know it a deer story was being told! And now rather than me being part of the conversation, my vocabulary suddenly decreased to that of an infant, "uh-huh...wow...oh..."
You see, women, on average, use 20,000 words per day, while a man uses about 7,000 (Brizendine, 2006). We have bigger communication centers in our brains. So why is it that when around a group of men we often become wordless? We have plenty of things to talk about!
I am impressed with my husband's ability to tell a story. He truly is brilliant at remembering the details and reciting them. A story of his, and this is not a cut on him at all, can last as long as the actual event . And I really don't mean that as a cut. I know I have to repeat that because if he is reading this I don't mean to offend. I really admire him. I am amazed at the details. Honestly, I either can't remember the details or feel that I should speed through the story for fear the other person may not be interested in what I am saying. But he, and Todd Jr. (who is my son Jordan) has been blessed with this ability. Story telling is almost a lost art. People are so busy with their lives, sometimes they feel they don't have the time. God spent just a little more time with Todd and Jordan on this gift. And I thank Him for that!
Now Ladies, I know we have a lot to say. I think it may be 2 things that prevent us from dominating a conversation...1) the busy thing, 2)the common interest thing (besides our children). I say let the common interest thing disappear! Anytime you hear a deer story, retort with an equally detailed and exciting shopping story. Yes, yes,yes, while this may sound shallow it may save you the anguish you feel just standing there saying nothing at all. So now it will be..."wow! I had that happen to! I was really having a hard time finding the right exact rack. Then there it was in the distance, about 20 yards away. There was actually a group of them. It took sometime to decide which one I should focus in on. And then I knew. The red shoes, size 9, stiletto heels. With a flash of my card , they were mine. Here, I'll show you. I've got a picture..."
Let the shoe hunting begin. The tip of the week- Scout. Make sure prior to a big hunt that you have prepared. This may take several trips to various stores, websites, magazines, newspaper flyers before you can actually locate the place to go. While this may not guarantee success, it's something else you can talk about!
Enjoy your Sunday! Hey, I would love to hear from you...What did God spend just a little more time with you on, or your husband, or your kids? Click on comments and let me know!
I'm trying to remember the singer of that song...James?..."God spent just a little more time with you, babe!"
Paula
Deer stories are great...well, sometimes! I know all of you who are married or around deer hunters can relate. Like yesterday as I sat around the ball diamond in Beechwood watching my husband play softball. There were times while there that I would be talking with my husband...then another man would appear...the conversation would slowly change to allow the third party to participate in the conversation...before you know it a deer story was being told! And now rather than me being part of the conversation, my vocabulary suddenly decreased to that of an infant, "uh-huh...wow...oh..."
You see, women, on average, use 20,000 words per day, while a man uses about 7,000 (Brizendine, 2006). We have bigger communication centers in our brains. So why is it that when around a group of men we often become wordless? We have plenty of things to talk about!
I am impressed with my husband's ability to tell a story. He truly is brilliant at remembering the details and reciting them. A story of his, and this is not a cut on him at all, can last as long as the actual event . And I really don't mean that as a cut. I know I have to repeat that because if he is reading this I don't mean to offend. I really admire him. I am amazed at the details. Honestly, I either can't remember the details or feel that I should speed through the story for fear the other person may not be interested in what I am saying. But he, and Todd Jr. (who is my son Jordan) has been blessed with this ability. Story telling is almost a lost art. People are so busy with their lives, sometimes they feel they don't have the time. God spent just a little more time with Todd and Jordan on this gift. And I thank Him for that!
Now Ladies, I know we have a lot to say. I think it may be 2 things that prevent us from dominating a conversation...1) the busy thing, 2)the common interest thing (besides our children). I say let the common interest thing disappear! Anytime you hear a deer story, retort with an equally detailed and exciting shopping story. Yes, yes,yes, while this may sound shallow it may save you the anguish you feel just standing there saying nothing at all. So now it will be..."wow! I had that happen to! I was really having a hard time finding the right exact rack. Then there it was in the distance, about 20 yards away. There was actually a group of them. It took sometime to decide which one I should focus in on. And then I knew. The red shoes, size 9, stiletto heels. With a flash of my card , they were mine. Here, I'll show you. I've got a picture..."
Let the shoe hunting begin. The tip of the week- Scout. Make sure prior to a big hunt that you have prepared. This may take several trips to various stores, websites, magazines, newspaper flyers before you can actually locate the place to go. While this may not guarantee success, it's something else you can talk about!
Enjoy your Sunday! Hey, I would love to hear from you...What did God spend just a little more time with you on, or your husband, or your kids? Click on comments and let me know!
I'm trying to remember the singer of that song...James?..."God spent just a little more time with you, babe!"
Paula
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