fruitymama

My healthy journey begins

2009-07-05T05:35:00.001-07:00

Scabs and Scars

2009-05-18T05:50:00.000-07:00

I have never been one to think I had much of a testimony. However in the last few weeks I have come to see we all have a testimony and some way that our life has been touched by the work of God. Mine came about in the form of scabs. Scabs you may say? As a friend and fellow blogger posted on Facebook...."Scabs are gross". However scabs can pretty awesome to.

A few weeks ago I was in a car accident. The car rolled, hit a tree, knocked me out, threw me from the front drivers side to the back passenger side, broke every piece of glass in the vehicle and knocked me out. Much less worse accidents have killed people. I was very blessed though...I escaped with lots of bruises, a sore body, and hand that looked like it belonged to Frankenstien. There were 27 stiches and enough tape and glue in there to complete more than a few school projects. If I wasn't hand model material before I certainly would never be now.

However I am so proud of that hand. Everytime I look at my hand now I am given a constant and visual reminder of God's love and protection for me. People told me after the accident "God has great plans for you" but I think the accident was his plan. A wake-up call and a lasting reminder of his love and forgivness. Not only that but that God is always with us. I will never be able to look at my hand without thinking of Jesus's hand and the scabs and scars he carried from those nails. The nails he took and the suffering he bore for me . Someone that has often struggled with my unworthiness to receive such love.

So yes Scabs and even scars might be considered "GROSS" but they can also be pretty "AWESOME".

Need vs Greed

2009-04-22T06:17:00.000-07:00

I read the following quote this morning....

"There is suffiancy in this world for man's need but not for man's greed."
------Ghandi

What an amazing statement that says about so many things in our world today. The economic crisis we see our in. The destroying of our natural beauty. It is all a result of our greed. However, I do believe that EVERY person in the world is guilty of this greed. It is time we release the greed and focus on what it is we really need. In the coming year I hope to make everyday an Earth Day, and futhermore, a day of need only in America.

Let's take back America...starting with ME!!!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T14:13:00.000-08:00

Wow the day of love. I can truly say that I have had a wonderful day and have felt relaxed and love. However as my girls get older I miss the goodie bags and valentine's that we did every year. I always thought I loved the school parties more than they did. Tonight I am headed to the symphony. I am excited because I will be trying my hand at tablescaping for the first time. It is exciting to be trying something new. However I am sad because my sweet husband and I will be away from each other for awhile. He is in the local Jazz Orchestra and they are playing a gig. So I will be enjoying an evening alone with good friends and anxiously awaiting the chance to go an see him play. I look forward to showing pictures of the event tomorrow.

Depression

2009-02-07T09:12:00.000-08:00

I have for years struggled with depression. I think that when I get very stressed out my body deals with the stress by shutting down and anything negative or upsetting just makes me want to crawl in the bed under the covers and shut down. I have been in this struggle lately. I often wonder during these times where my God is? I also wonder at these times if I am even good enough to call him "My God"? I know this is true and that God will never leave me or forsake me. What is happening is an attack of faith. God doesn't promise all blue skies and rainbows and what I need to remember is that he will never leave me or forsake me. Like he would never leave or forsake anyone else.

Do they...or Don't they

2009-01-29T07:09:00.000-08:00

My family says "when they read this blog they see a diffrent me". I think they aren't seeing a diffrent me just seeing the one that at home is busy taking care of all the things that need to be taken care of. Giving (and receiving instruction), listening to the never ending list of needs, and wants, and since they think they know it all, being told what I am doing wrong. So NO I am not a diffrent person on this blog I am just me and with no one to tell me what I should or shouldn't say I can say it all. So while my family thinks I am just a diffrent person my prayer is that they will really just see me...not wife, not mom, not anyone but me.

A Little Obsessed

2009-01-25T11:47:00.001-08:00

I have a little secret to share. These past few months I have been very interested in all things Obama, but NOT Barack. I am so enthralled with two cute young ladies, Sasha and Malia. I think they are a VERY BRIGHT spot in what was an other wise disappointing election for me. I thought this picture of our first daughters said it all.... Pride, Joy, Excitment and YOUTH. What fun the next four (or maybe eight) years will be. However, I believe that we has America need to respect that they are children. They need to have room to grow, flourish, and experience life. So while there experiences maybe different then most kids there age, they have to experience them just the same. However I do think I will be looking for me some Marvelous Malia and Simply Sasha Dolls. Just has a reminder of my little obsession.

The Fruit of the Day is STILL Peace and Joy

2009-01-23T14:04:00.000-08:00

I am still working on this Peace and Joy thing. It has been a long hard week but I do see some true blessings about to come. So I will keep pruning in my vineyard and praying for directions.

CHANGE

2009-01-22T06:12:00.001-08:00

During the election we heard alot about CHANGE. I was often quoted as saying "Change I got....give me Experience." Well I didn't get the experience I got the change and I am going to proudly support him and this nation. I am a big believer in God has a plan. It may not be our plan and we may think we don't like but it is HIS PLAN and I will go with it. These past few days have seen lots of CHANGES in our nation and I think it showed what we as America do best. Celebrate, Revere, and Honor are leaders, our history and our future.

The Bible tells us this:

rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

Colossians 2:7

So I will have Faith in God's plan of CHANGE and support the person that was in God's plan to lead us. I will pray unceasingly for him and will endeavor to support him. I may not always agree but I am keeping my eyes on the bigger CHANGE, the day my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ comes.

The FIRST Check

2009-01-18T15:32:00.001-08:00

Emily has a job. She is working at Chic-Fil-A on Vann Dr in Jackson. I am so excited about this. I am even more excited this weekend because she got her FIRST check. We are so proud of her and hopefully, someday soon, she will allow us to eat there when she is working. However I am praying that she likes her job, learns the value of a dollar, and is thankful that she gets to work for a Godly company.

My BEFORE I am 40 Bucket List

2009-01-16T14:59:00.000-08:00

No....I do not plan on dying at 40. In fact, I am of the belief that my life will just be starting at 40!!! Some great things will be occuring then.......1.) My first child will spread her wings and leave for college. Now I will mess her ALOT but a dear older friend once told me "that it is a reason to be proud. You have given her the wings now let her fly." 2.) My youngest daughter will be starting high school. She has been through so much and I can't wait for her to make this big change her life. 3. I will be married for 20 years (yes I married young but I am so glad I did) and I have a wonderful husband. But, there are so many things that I still want to do so I have a bucket list that I am working on.

1.) Direct a play or musical for a theater group. I am working with my wonderful husband on this now.

2.) Run a marathon or 1/2 marathon. Like Oprah I just want to know I can do it. Now if I do die then I will, at least, be glistening.

3.) Take each of my daughters on a mother/daughter trip of their choosing.

4.) Have $50,000 cash in the bank.

5.) See the Grand Canyon.

Ok now I know that my list is not exotic but it my list. I am working on them and I plan to complete them.

Our Fruit of the Day is JOY

2009-01-16T08:35:00.000-08:00

Ok I am still working on PEACE. That is not an easy fruit to grow...let me tell you. It will bud and then just a little bit of impatience or nasty attitude can really hinder it's growth but I am still working on it . Today I am adding JOY to my orchard. I think if I can keep pruning away the weeds in my PEACE I can also bring more JOY!!!

Our Fruit of the Day is PEACE

2009-01-15T07:08:00.000-08:00

Today I am going to really work on my fruit of PEACE. This will come in real handy since I work with my husband. I don't know about you but it is hard. We are not doing so well with in the PEACE department. So I am going to really focus on it today.

I let you know how it goes.

Techie....NOT

2009-01-15T07:05:00.000-08:00

I am very techinically challenged. I can add that to my list right along with spelling...in fact my five year old "nephew" corrected my spelling over the holidays but I digress. I have been trying to add all these cute backgrounds and fonts to my blog since I started. I see all these other people that change there blog almost everyday. Well not me. I do good to write and see it posted. Much less add a new background. So this is my plea for help. If you can walk this very "techinical challenged" person through changing her backgrounds I woul love it. I might even try out my fruit of patience.

Lists...I Love Em

2009-01-13T14:41:00.000-08:00

Because I love lists, and because it's a crazy busy Tuesday, and because I wanted to offer a little something and don't have time to really write... here is a list that's been circulating the blogsphere. I thought I'd join in. It's interesting to see what I've done.

Here's the rule: Bold the things you've done & post on your blog!

1. Started your own blog

2. Slept under the stars

3. Played in a band

4. Visited Hawaii

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Been to Disneyland (Disneyworld never Disneyland)

8. Climbed a mountain (if climbing to te top of Clingman's dome counts)

9. Held a praying mantis

10. Sang a solo

11. Bungee jumped

12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a lightning storm at sea

14. Taught yourself an art from scratch

15. Adopted a child

16. Had food poisoning

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown your own vegetables

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France

20. Slept on an overnight train

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Hitch hiked

23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill

24. Built a snow fort

25. Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping

27. Run a Marathon

28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset

31. Hit a home run

32. Been on a cruise

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Seen an Amish community

36. Taught yourself a new language

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied (I think I am blessed.. no complaints)

38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person

39. Gone rock climbing

40. Seen Michelangelo’s David

41. Sung karaoke

42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited Africa

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight

46. Been transported in an ambulance

47. Had your portrait painted

48. Gone deep sea fishing

49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person

50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive-in theater

55. Been in a movie

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Visited Russia

60. Served at a soup kitchen

61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies

62. Gone whale watching

63. Got flowers for no reason

64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma

65. Gone sky diving

66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp

67. Bounced a check

68. Flown in a helicopter

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy

70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial

71. Eaten Caviar

72. Pieced a quilt

73. Stood in Times Square

74. Toured the Everglades

75. Been fired from a job

76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London

77. Broken a bone (kind of... got a stress fracture)

78. Been on a speeding motorcycle

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

80. Published a book

81. Visited the Vatican

82. Bought a brand new car

83. Walked in Jerusalem

84. Had your picture in the newspaper

85. Kissed a stranger at midnight on New Year's Eve

86. Visited the White House

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

88. Had chickenpox

89. Saved someone’s life (I've been told I have)

90. Sat on a jury

91. Met someone famous

92. Joined a book club

93. Lost a loved one

94. Had a baby

95. Seen the Alamo in person (Alamo, TN)

96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake

97. Been involved in a law suit

98. Owned a cell phone

99. Been stung by a bee

I'm not sure what all this says about me.

Suessical the Musical

2009-01-13T14:05:00.000-08:00

I had a grand time this weekend with my husband, two friends and our kids. We went to Playhouse on the Square in Memphis perform Suessical. It was AWESOME!!! First, I must say that I had never attended a POTS performance and I can't wait to attend my next one. The performers were at th
e top of their game and yet afterwards they were so welcoming and approachable. This picture is of my daughter, Emily, my friend's daughter, Allie, and the actors that portrayed Gertrude McFuzz and Horton. I also was able to spend time with the techinical director looking at the sets and props, as well as, some of the "inside info" on lights and sound. I will certainly take this back for my Suessical performance.

The stage they used was really cool. I am looking forward to recreating it for our production. We could have bought their set for JUST a $1000.00 but the cost and the fact it had to be picked up the next morning did not make it feasable. So we have some great folks using their "thinkers" and we will have one great stage to.

Give-Away Number 1

2009-01-11T07:23:00.000-08:00

I have become a blog fan. I love reading all kinds of blogs. There is this great blog that sends you a knew enjoyable blog everyday. It is called the Secret is in the Sauce. Now if I knew how to do it I would put a button to get you there but since I don't I will just tell you about. I do want to send you a link to this blog that is giving away this really neat organization treat for the week:

http://craftycarey.blogspot.com

Go check it out and enter. Oh yeah and tell them I sent ya!!!!

Blessings;
Gina Hartley

Imagination

2009-01-06T11:54:00.000-08:00

Imagination is more important than knowledge.........
Albert Einstein

I have just finished auditions for my upcoming musical. It was so much fun watching the kids audition. The whole basis of Dr. Suess books are to use your imagination. I believe in the Dr. Suess theory that if we can imagine we can do. Then I read this quote today by Albert Einstein one of the smartest men that ever lived. It reminded me again to imagine.

As we get older we tend to lose our ability to have an imagination or dream. We get so caught up in the details that we lose the focus. We all need to take time to imagine much more.

I like to think of some of the great stories about dreams in the Bible and how they lead to change and great events. One of my favorite stories as always been about Jacob's Ladder. What change it lead to.

I challenge you today to use your IMAGINATION. Take a moment and think of something and see what it leads to.

Masks

2009-01-05T12:59:00.000-08:00

At Halloween and other times we buy and wear masks. Some are scary, some are funny, some are of characters. However I have determined that we all wear masks everyday of our lives. Right now I have been wearing the mask of happiness when I have been at the door of a deep depression. I have fought depression for years and medication, prayer, and God have all keep me functioning at times. Depression is something that is very hard to admit. The fact that it is more present in our life, at times, than God is even harder.

In depression we feel that God is not hearing us. That alone, we face the struggle of whatever is weighing most on us. In Habakkuk we read of his struggle There is a verse that stuck with me in Habakkuk:

Fig trees may not grow figs, and there may be no grapes on the vines. There may be no olives growing and no food growing in the fields. There may be no sheep in the pens and no cattle in the barns. But I will still be glad in the Lord; I will rejoice in God my Savior.

Habakkuk 3:17-18

So this reminds that God never turns away. I can Go to God with my questions and my struggles. I may not have all the answers, but in finding God, You know the one who does.

Auditions Day 1

2009-01-05T08:58:00.001-08:00

Well..I am a Day late but this is my Sunday post. So while technically I failed at getting a post a day already...I am going to count this as my fourth post for the fourth day of 2009. Yesterday I wasn't able to post because between church, laundry, kitchen duty, a well needed and deserved nap....I had auditions for Suessical the Musical. I saw 30 folks that wanted to sing, dance, and charm their way into the musical I am directing. What a whirlwind of activity. I so enjoyed the audition process and was blown away with some of the talent and now nursing a bruised lip from biting my lip, so as not to laugh at some other talent. It was interesting to say the list.

Some people have bucket list before they die....will I had a before I am 40 bucket list. I have done some of the things. Others I have moved to a before I die bucket list but two things still lingered. First...I wanted to run, at least, a half marathon. Ok to be honest it was a marathon but I am much more realistic now. Second....was to direct a major musical or play. So this year is my last chance and I plan to do both. My mother always said no one died from work...so I will see.

My quote today comes from Magic Johnson:

When you face a crisis, you know who your true friends are.

Hope you have no crisis today and you have lots of true friends.

Blessings;
Gina

New Year....New Start...New Me-Day 3

2009-01-03T16:42:00.000-08:00

With my goal setting for the year I am faithfully reading the Bible everyday. Right now I am focusing on two things-Reading the Bible in a year and reading a chapter of Proverbs a day. Today I read two of my favorite verses:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6

I really needed to hear (or read) that verse. I often want to control things when God is already in control. Thank you for that reminder.

Oh the Thinks You Can Think.....

2009-01-02T17:19:00.000-08:00

I am not sure what I was thinking but I am about to direct my first musical. Suessical the Musical will be staged by Nite Lite Theater on April 2nd-5th and I am the director. I am committed to making it a great musical. Lots of hard work and focus will be involved. I am looking forward to seeing what I can do and what a cast can do with their imagination and hard work.

I found this quote I wanted to leave you with:

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.
Mignon McLaughlin

New Year....New Start...New Me

2009-01-01T17:30:00.000-08:00

Welcome 2009!!! What an awesome adventure we have before us. One of my goals (notice I didn't say resolution I said GOAL) is to blog daily. Therefore I am kicking off the year. I wanted to share a Bible verse I am choosing for the year and a quote. In the coming days I will share the important and the mundane. Please join me on this adventure of 2009.

Verse for the year:

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.

Proverbs 1:7a

Quote for the Year:

Take care of the minutes and the hours will take care of themselves.

Lord Chesterfield

Resolutions

2008-12-30T08:34:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the most common resolutions made each January. If you have one of these on your list, then be sure to create a plan as well. For example, if your resolution is to workout more often, then get out your calendar and mark each Tuesday and Thursday with the type of exercise you resolve to do. Resolutions are hollow without a plan!

1. Get Organized
2. Spend more time with Family and Friends
3. Exercise More Often
4. Lose Weight
5. Quit an Addiction (drinking, smoking, etc.)
6. Enjoy Life More
7. Get Out of Debt
8. Learn a New Skill
9. Volunteer More
10. Keep House Clean

I will share my list of resolutions or goals for 2009 tomorrow.

A Christmas Card

2008-12-21T09:23:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas very much and one of my favorite things to do is send Christmas Cards. Now my friends will tell you that I like to send cards year around but the holidays are extra special. I love seeing my girls and my "fur babies" dressed for the holidays in their yearly picture. However I can't send a card to everyone that reads my "blog" or knows me so I am sharing this special Christmas E-card with you. May God Bless You With a "White Christmas".

Please enjoy this Christmas E-Card from our family:http://samramsay.110mb.com/ChristmasEcard.html

Party Like It's.....2009?

2008-12-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

When I was in high school one of the big songs was the Prince hit....Party Like It's 1999. Then it seemed like forever before 1999 and now here it is about to be ten years later. How come it seems like just yesterday that I was in high school. That is more than 20 years ago. When I think of all the changes in the ten years that have passed since 1999, the UPS and DOWNS of life, I realize I have lived alot in that time yet so little means anything. Right now the only thing that matters is my COMMITTMENT to be the Christian that God wants us to be. It is a struggle. For me it is hard to be under authority and rules. I am so strong willed that I want to speak my mind and do things my way. That is NOT what God intended. Through the messages I am learning in Weigh Down I realize that I need to follow authority and rules. It is hard but I CAN DO IT!!!

So this year I won't part like it 1999 but 2009 and have no regrets about the past and a wonderful outlook on 2009.

Christmas Tree

2008-12-10T17:36:00.000-08:00

I LOVE decorating the Christmas Tree. It is so special to me to see all the ornaments the girls have made over the years and ornaments that we collected as a family. This year our tree seems to look very special to me.

2008-12-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

My Chihuahua Bits! That is the name of a blog that I read but it is also the truth. I have an adorable chihuahua that likes no one but ME!! So he might not be so adorable to others. In fact, Chico is very protective of me. It is has taken him a year just to let our other dog near me and sometimes he doesn't even like that. He also is not very happy with my husband when he tries to be loving to me. My doggie has a place and he thinks it is with me....all the time.

It's Raining....It's Pouring

2008-12-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

And oh I wish I was in the bed peacefully snoring. When my girls were smaller they loved nursery rhymes. We spent many hours saying short little poems, singing songs, and endlessly making up little diddys. I miss those days. Today as it looks like Noah might float in at any minute I am reminded of those times. So to my dear daughters I leave this thought:

It's Rain, It;s Pouring

The Old Man is Snoring

He Jumped in Bed

And Bumped His Head

And Couldn't Get Up in the Morning.

Blessing Day 3

2008-11-28T00:50:00.000-08:00

I didn't get post earlier on Thanksgiving Day but I wanted to keep my blesings going so I could make the 25 days. Today my blessing is my dear children. It is hard being a mom. I make a lot more mistakes right now that I should and I am struggling to let "my little girls" really be the young ladies they have become. Things are hard right now but I will continue to be the mom God wants me to be.

I am blessed with two very diffrent yet equally special young ladies. God is good and I have two Christ loving daughters that love him, each other, and so many others. They are truly a very special blessing.

Thanks and Blessings Day 2

2008-11-26T06:12:00.000-08:00

Well this is another beautiful day and the start of my Thanksgiving break. In just a few short hours we are off for one of my favorite family traditions. We always visit my husband's family for Thanksgiving holidays. It is always so awesome see his relatives and watch the kid's interact with their cousins that they don't see very often. As they have gotten older they have had less in common with their cousins, as to be expected, but it is still fun to see how they have all changed.

Which leads me to my blessing. I am so thankful for my husband. Now no one would say we are the picture of domestic bliss but we do love each other and thankfully over 18 years ago God gave me a husband that really was committed to better or worse, richer or poorer. I am so blessed by him.

So the next time he is about to drive me crazy for the 100th time I will read this post and be so grateful for my MARK.

What am I Thankful for

2008-11-25T06:30:00.000-08:00

I am thinking alot about the holidays. Only two days till Thanksgiving and one month...yes, you read right..one month from Christmas. So I have decided to post daily about a blessing in my life. That means one month from today I should have a list of twenty-five things that I truly am blessed to have in my life.

Today, I am so thankful that I am a child of God. He took this wretched and unworthy me and gave me a new life in him. I want to live my life as his child and be a light for him. Boy do I fail miserable at that. But with each failure I can start over and know that he loves me and forgives. How awesome.

The Caddy

2008-11-25T05:59:00.000-08:00

My husband WON A CAR!!! Not just any car but a cadilliac.......wait it gets better....it is a 1995 Green Cadilliac Sedan DE Ville. So the Hartley's now have what we refer to as the Hoop-ti-mobile. I am loving riding around in my car that makes me at time feel like I am driving my pimp's car and other times feel like a little old lady driving the last car she will ever own. But whatever I feel like it was nice to be blessed with a unexpected surprise.

Mark won the car in a drawing that our local veteran's group was having. He bought one ticket. I had jokingly told the girls for months that "momma's gonna win that car". Little did I really think we would. When they drew my husband's name I was shocked. Our youngest daughter was so upset she promptly asked to walk home. Nice thought...she would rather walk than ride in a car. Now I know what she will be driving at 16. However now we are all getting used to the caddy and it will truly be one of fond family memories when the kids have kids of their own.

Just another reminder that God loves a good joke.

Fleas

2008-11-22T19:45:00.000-08:00

You would think as someone whose family has a pest control business we would not have a problem with any kind of bug/pests. Well WE DO!!! My beloved dogs, Chico and Lucy, have bought us the pesky little bug....FLEAS. The fleas seem to love driving them crazy, and in the process, everyone in the house also. So like the cobbler whose family has no shoes..we are the bugman whose house has bugs. So why it is the owners of a business with the Bug-B-Gone Gurantee can't get their own bugs gone?

Stay tuned for our flea fighting adventures......

It's Me Again

2008-11-15T19:27:00.001-08:00

This has been a crazy week. A week full of surprises and blessings that I plan to share with you soon. I have had a full "platter" as I often laughingly say and the last three days have been more full than others. In three days I have...had meetings of two clubs I am President of (I know most people aren't President of one club and I take on two in the same year), served as hostess for a Membership Luncheon for the Symphony League, chaired a girl's pageant, and served as concession coordinator for the Womanless Beauty Review for my daughter's 8th grade trip fund. So now has I sit here typing this I am both exhausted and relieved. I can now focus on my last "big" project of the year and start my decorating for the holidays. I plan on hosting no less than six parties this Christmas season and have lots to do to get ready.

Some people may question my sanity in doing this but I love it. I love being busy. A good nap and I am refreshed. It is one of my greatest strengths and biggest weaknesses. But God made us to serve. While I am far more blessed by what I do...it is my honor to do for others in serving. So with my full platter I become a little more "fruity". I receive the fruits of love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, and gentleness when I do. So my platter maybe full but so is my life and my heart.

My Challenge Update

2008-11-05T11:33:00.000-08:00

Ok I am one week into my 75 day challenge and thought I would give you a weekly update on my goals:

1. How many books will I read? Five books and daily Bible reads

I have been doing alot of Bible reading and I am right now reading a wonderful book called "Created to be his HELP MEET"

2. How many CD/MP3's wil I listen to?Five a week...so that would be 50 CD/MP3's

I have faithfully listened to, at least, 5 cds (sometimes in one day)

3. How many days will I work out?Ok this is the hard one for me. I will walk on four days a week.

Ok I have NOT done this but I will not give up.

4. How many major ideas will I share?At least ONE every week

I am full ideas and always share them...LOL

5. How many days will I eat right?SIX (6) days a week...ok I need one day of fun right?

Ok I still have some work to do but I am doing better on what I eat.

6. How many meetings will I have with others?At least one meeting of importance every week

Seems like I spend more time in meetings than I care to so I am definately meeting this goal.

7. How much money will you save in the next 75 days?FiftyDollars a week

I have 50 hidden so I have started an emergency fund.

So over all the first week has gone ok. Still work to do but I will keep you posted.

What is my motive

2008-11-05T11:26:00.000-08:00

I heard this comment today and it reall struck me. What is my motive? Why I am doing the things I do. I love listening to Constant Encouragment CD's and lately have found such a joy and peace (two of those fruits I try to have) in really studying God's word. Therefore, I think my motive is to live a life....ALL ABOUT HIM. So while I lament the state of American politics and the ways of the world I know that is not my motive. My motive is ALL ABOUT HIM and that will lead me to the "fruits" this mama desires.

Game On.....the challenge

2008-10-29T14:02:00.000-07:00

One of the blogs I read had this challenge on it. I decided to take it for myself and see what I can do. I will get you in blogland updated on my progress.

Here are SIX (6) personal challenges for the next 75 days and my answers to how I will meet each challenge.......

1. How many books will I read?
Five books and daily Bible reads

2. How many CD/MP3's wil I listen to?
Five a week...so that would be 50 CD/MP3's

3. How many days will I work out?
Ok this is the hard one for me. I will walk on four days a week.

4. How many major ideas will I share?
At least ONE every week

5. How many days will I eat right?
SIX (6) days a week...ok I need one day of fun right?

6. How many meetings will I have with others?
At least one meeting of importance every week.

7. How much money will you save in the next 75 days?
Fifty Dollars a week

Do you have a challenge? What will you do in the next 75 days?

2008-10-29T06:43:00.000-07:00

Ever have days like this:

...like you've been eaten by a 100-ft shark? We've all had days like that. Shoot, poor Jonah LIVED a day like that! But when you do, just remember God is bigger, mightier and stronger than anything that tries to swallow you whole. The shark can get you in its grip, but God has the shark in His!!
www.leadHership.net

This was taken from a blog that I follow and get such insights from. The message today really hit the nail on the head for me. I feel like I am drowning in choas. Drowning in problems I can't seem to solve. Yet I know MY GOD is bigger. A friend has shared that she is losing faith. I guess we all feel like that at times but I know it is in our lowest points that GOD is really there with us. Month after month I struggle at certain times. I feel sick, depressed, stressed but it never ceases to amaze me that I overcome it. Not because of anything great that I do but because it is part of God's plan.

So I today I maybe in the shark's grip but I can relax knowing that the shark is in GOD's grip.

Why I am a fruitymama

2008-10-27T15:37:00.000-07:00

"......but the Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfullnes, gentleness, and self-control.
Galatians 5:22-23

"..............By this My Father is glorified, that Bear Much Fruit; so you be My disciples."
John 15:8

These two verses explain what I am searching for in my life. I want to be the type of mama that represents these two verses in my life. My daughter's have informed me that fruity is a negative term but I am so old that I never got it. However what it represents to me is a mama that has the Fruits of the Spirit and thru her life bears much fruit. Oh yeah, I like to think it means I am a fun loving, silly mama. So I strive everyday to live these verses out and have a good time doing it.

My Wife Swap Dreams

2008-10-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

One of my guilty little pleasures in life is Reality Shows. From Survivor to Project Runway to American Idol I love to watch most all of these shows. Two of my favorites are Wife Swap and Trading Spouses. However I am far from convinced that these two shows deal with much reality at all.

I have often wondered if anyone would want to trade with me. Not much glamour in a wife/spouse that works, does laundry, cooks, cleans, does more laundry, takes care of two teenagers, a husband, two dogs, far to many volunteer projects and does more laundry. Maybe I could be that crazy wife that yells to much or needs to lose weight. As far as "ME TIME" wouldn't it be exciting to watch me take a nap (my favorite thing to do). I am convinced that a rating blockbusters I would not be.

Then I stop and think why would I even want to swap. My job, while not perfect, does allow me flexibility and the chance to carry my dog to work with me. To say I will never give Martha Stewart or Rachel Ray a run for their money, the cooking and cleaning do get done. My children and husband are an absolute joy that I haven't killed...YET. As for the volunteer projects there would be a simple answer to that...say NO.....but the word seems impossible for me to say.

So I think I will keep my own reality. It is better that anyone on tv can imagine. So while the grass may look greener on the other side.....there is still laundry to do.

When a Fruity Mama Goes Rotten

2008-10-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

I lost it today. I lost my cool and temper with my family and with it I lost my peace for today. How awesome to know that God forgives us when we lose are cool and temper, and will give me back my peace. However I will keep striving to leave the life that is more of me and live the life that is all of him...our heavenly father God

Things here have been busy and a little stressful to say the least. Mark and I have been working six days a week for about six weeks now, continuing to deal with Ellen's health, doctor's appts/calls, taking care of normal day to day life and finances, and being over committed in to many areas. Well it has caught up with me. I am fried....both physically and emtionally. I need to take my refuge in the Lord.

Today I will spend less time pleasing others and serve with the joy of the Lord. My mission is to be the Child of the King and stay in the teachings. I have in a great CD called There is Only One God that I got from Weigh Down Workshop (http://www.weighdown.com/) and it is wonderful. I will stay in the word and then I can keep my peace, which leads to keeping my cool and temper.

Through the Looking Glass

2008-10-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

It is official I am addicted to blogs and blogging. I love reading about other people's lives and also sharing my life with others. I have always been a nosy and a gossip (at least according to people who know me the best) and blogs allow me to fulfill both of these human flaws. I can learn about people and their lives, as well as, share mine. It is addiction, though harmless, that keeps me consumed with the computer.

I have discovered blogs on adoption, feminist Mormons, depressed moms, new beginnings, and every kind of religious and political blog you could imagine. I am so taken with the honest of some people and the hidden agenda of others. It is a bit like Alice in the Looking Glass. However how honest are blogs. What is going on under the surface. The inside that only you and God know. What is not revealed.

I will never know many of the people in the blogs I read and my readers will never know me. What I do know is their lives help me live a little better and my prayer is that the inside with shine through.

My Brave Ellen

2008-10-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

This is my very special daughter, Ellen. A week from today she will turn 14 years old. It is so hard for me to believe how fast time has gone since she was born. Seems like it was just yesterday that she telling me how I was her best friend and she wanted some Mella Mella (Mello Yello) to drink. Now she is more likely to tell me I embarrass her and she can get her own drink. However she is still my baby.

A month ago she was a sick little puppy. She had just been released from the hospital after having a hole in her heart repaired and her heart beat regulated. Today she looks like the girl in the picture. Back at school and cheerleading too. Amazing how quickly kids recover. Just like time it is FAST!!

I am so happy to have such a special daughter.

The Wonder of It All

2008-10-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

I love religion. I often said that if could go back to school with time and money being no problem I would study religion. I am amazed by the tradition and customs of the many religions, as well as, the beliefs that they hold. Recently, I have been webcasting with a wonderful church called Remnant Fellowship (http://www.remnantfellowship.org). They are located in Brentwood, TN. They have many beliefs and traditions that I do not understand but the past fourty days have been spent celebrating the days of awe leading up to the Feast of Harvest. It is based on Moses time spent with God on the mountain and his return. It is also meant to remind us to spend time getting ourselves right with God and then the celebration of his blessings.

I often don't celebrate God's blessings enough. I know I am blessed but I look at all my troubles and not enough at my blessings. It is the human side to us that makes us like that but I need more dependence. I get tired of hearing myself complain but I keep right on. Today I am making a pact..with myself, my God, and my readers. That for the next 24 hours I will not complain. I will disagree calmly if needed but complain I will not do. I will count my blessings and times I feel lead to complain...I WILL COUNT THEM. Then I am sure I will sit back at the Wonder of it All.

Blessings;
Gina

Beautiful and Blessed

2008-10-19T16:56:00.001-07:00

No, I am saying that I am beautiful with the title of my post. Cute or fluffy as my husband made the mistake of saying one time might describe but definitely not beautiful. What is beautiful was this day and I was blessed to experience it. God brings us to a point where we need to be and we can make the choice to be blessed or bummed...always choose the blessing.

God is bringing a new season to our family life. I am saddened that we have been called to leave Thrive Community Church. It is a good church...sadly it was not a good church for us at this time. My girls were not growing....not flourishing in the word. We are like a wolf in that we need to run in packs....and for my two teenagers that means packs of girls. Also Thrive was suffering from growing pains and that meant no youth minister. So we had to find a church where my girls could find their pack. Finding a new church home is hard. We have attended several churches in the last few years and I am discouraged by this. I do not want to be a CHURCH HOPPER however I do want to grow. I am praying that in this season we will find the place for us.

Today we visited Engelwood Baptist Church. It was our second time to attend on a Sunday morning. The preacher is young and energetic. He is preaching an AWESOME series on marriage. Today he preached that the most important issue in a marriage in a personal relationship with GOD. I was pricked. My relationship is lagging. My earnest prayer is a closeness with him that will bring a closeness with my husband. Our next step with Engelwood will be to visit a Sunday School class and the girls to visit youth.

I have no idea what God has in store for us but I do know that God has a plan. I am just to be still and listen. Man what an order for me. More on that tomorrow.

My Hands Were Busy

2007-05-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
Psalms 46:10

Since my girls are growing up and need me less and less each day I was brought to tears with this poem. I am going to take more time to be less busy and more quite for the next few years.

Blessings;
Gina

My hands were busy through the day.
I didn’t have much time to play.
The little games you asked to do,
I didn’t have much time for you.

I’d wash your clothes.
I’d sew and cook.
You’d ask and I’d read from your book.
I’d tuck you in all safe at night,
And hear your prayers;
turn out the light.
Then tiptoe softly by your door,
I wish I’d stayed a minute more.

For life was short, the years rushed past,
A little girl grows up so fast.
No longer is she at my side,
Her precious secrets to confide.

The picture books are put away.
There are no longer games to play.
No Teddy Bears or misplaced toy
No sleepovers with lots of noise.

No goodnight kiss,
no prayers to hear.
That all belongs to yesteryear.
My hands, once busy, now are still.
The days are long and hard to fill.
I wish I could go back and do
The little things you asked me to do.

Anonymous