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November 28, 2012
It was Mary…
Each day it grows closer to Christmas. As it does, my thoughts not only go to my Lord, but also to his mother, Mary. I do not personally believe Mary to be deity, but I do believe she to be of the most esteemed people to ever walk the earth. I hold her and her story in the highest of regard and I think of her example to all of us, not only at Christmas, but all year through. Many times, when I have to take up my Cross and carry it-which simply stated means when I do what God wants me to do and asks of me instead of what I want to do- I reflect to Mary and encourage myself with her testimony. If Mary could forsake all, if only to please God, and she did so in a both grand and regal fashion…then I, too, could walk according to God's purpose in my life.
"Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23
Imagine all she endured if only to please God. Did this little girl have any idea what the Lord was asking of her when He decided it was her he would tuck his promise inside of?
Spent some time thinking about Mary again this morning as I was listening to the Mercy Me Christmas CD on my ipod. My favorite song on that CD, since 2004 when the album came out, has been Joseph's Lullaby. Beautiful song…you should listen to it and put yourself in Mary's shoes….
The woman gave birth to the Savior of the world…it was Mary.
She had no idea what the journey she had only just begun would look like, but she knew it was a weighty and lofty calling.
I know, its not even December yet…but think on her story. Who was she that she should carry a promise so grand inside her? Nobody. She was young, probably quite naive, but her heart pure and herself willing to do what was asked of her. She was accused, mocked and could have been stoned if it weren't for Joseph. She had to move away from her family and friends, not because she wanted to but she was willing to in order to follow the lead of God. She had to let go completely.
I want to be like Mary. Total surrender of my heart and will to the Lord. I gave him my all, 'Here am I Lord, send me', in 2003. It has been an act of the will to manage that decision of surrender every day since. God makes promises and God keeps them. It is our job to follow his lead, obey his call, and take up our cross each day and follow after him.
Jesus is the reason for Christmas.
Jesus is the greatest gift you could hope for, free of charge.
Jesus paid the price in full.
He is the answer to every problem you face.
Sometimes you have to completely let go.
God's got all the right answers.
November 27, 2012
I Dared To Ditch Sugar
It has often been quoted, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step." Isn't it true that when you have a large task at hand, it can become cumbersome and overwhelming to think of what is to be accomplished. We become paralyzed with the notion of it, whatever the task may be, if we allow it. Once we become overwhelmed we become immobilized and ineffective…defeated by a task too grand to conquer. The best way to prevent those overwhelming feelings and doubts of accomplishment is to break the objective down into pieces. Manageable goals with dates attached to them. If we only just begin…
This is true for each of us with our own health and fitness…nutrition included. Instead of waiting for a bad report from the doctor, why not be proactive in your health journey now? I know it can be overwhelming, depending on your objectives and goals. Don't wait for the New Year. Before you know it, you've waited for the following New Year and the circle of life overtakes you and you have accomplished little more than the feeling of dissatisfaction and disappointment.
I am hoping to encourage you to start by sharing my own personal story of how I radically changed my eating and gradually reduced my sugar intake to next to nothing. I didn't do it over night. I had a plan. I had a goal. My objectives were clear and I set my sights to achieve it. When I first thought about radically changing my diet to something much cleaner, healthier and "sugar free", I truly had little idea of what it would look like when I was finished. I just knew that I had many things in this life I wanted to do, I wanted to become, I wanted to achieve. If I was going to get it all crammed into one lifetime, I'd better make sure I was as healthy as I had the power to be, trusting God with the rest, and go for it!
I guess it was in 2004 that I sat down with my journal and my pen and wrote it down. I wanted to reduce the amount of carbohydrates in my diet. I wanted to eat more vegetables. I wanted to completely eliminate processed snack foods from my diet. I had already successfully canceled all presence of soda in my diet. Wow. That pretty much ruled out the American diet. I was overwhelmed. Where would I start?
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step"…
I decided I'd find items that I ate on a somewhat regular basis, but not daily, and I would get rid of those first. I tackled the easier foods to sacrifice and then I held this pattern until I felt I had made a lifestyle change. For example, I liked chips just like most people. I didn't eat them all the time, but I did eat them and I occasionally bought them. I'm not a big salt craver so chips was something I enjoyed, but it wasn't that hard to let go of. There were other foods I did the same with in this time. I little by little whittled the junk out of my diet and made a healthy substitution. I became familiar with the supplement line from Advocare and incorporated some key products into my nutrition plan. I knew going into this decision that it was going to be a journey that I would not finish overnight. It was going to take time, a lot of time, if I was going to do it right. I really had no idea how long it would take, but I determined that within two years I'd have my diet looking pretty fabulous. At this two year mark is when I would radically look at how I made choices concerning sugar. For me, sugar was the grandaddy. If I could give up sugar it would be nothing short of a miracle. I am pretty sure I was addicted to the stuff. I would get at least one craving for something sweet every day. It was usually ice cream. Ice cream was one of my favorite "cheat" foods. I had a great weakness for it. So, though I wouldn't always act on my desire for something sweet, I still had the desire emerge and taunt me. I think it's called temptation?! I figured if I could successfully eliminate sugar from my diet, over time, I would no longer desire it. I was right!
I had always been able to manage my decision to not go out of control with food. I was a fairly disciplined person and I wanted to keep my weight in check. The combination of the small disciplines with food I did have and my love for fitness, I was able to manage my weight fairly reasonably. But it was always work and discipline! Please don't think I am someone who can just eat whatever she wants and be thin. I have a fairly slow metabolism actually and my body type has a bit of endomorph to it (my body would rather hold onto weight than burn it). I have had people make comments to me over the years that leads me to believe there are people who know me who just think, "That's just Nicole, she loves fitness and healthy foods." I've had people tell me they were afraid to bring me meals when I had a child because they didn't know what I would eat (i.e. too healthy). These statements kind of surprised me because I knew my story, but I guess they didn't.
When I began this journey to truly eat clean (whole foods, no processed foods, lots of veggies, some fruit, complex carbohydrates and the absence of refined carbohydrates), I could not even think of the effort and discipline it would take to quit with sugar. So, at that point I only wrote it on the paper, but didn't even entertain the idea at that time. It was too big and I knew I wasn't ready for that. I had to begin smaller with the things I was ready for. This is how it can be with you, whatever your health objective. You don't necessarily have to quit sugar like I did. I realize many people think I am extreme with this and they cannot wrap their heads around it. I've had people take big bites of cake right in my face a parties and say, "Mmmm, this is soooo good." As though somehow they were tempting me or I was standing there in agony because I wanted a bite. Not so! We have control over our taste buds. You heard me! We can train our taste buds. You get used to whatever it is you eat. Here is a newsflash, when you eat very small amounts of sugar, when you do taste something that has sugar (ie. Even a chocolate chip cookie or cupcake) all you can taste is sugar. I'm not kidding. If I were to take a bite of a cake or cookie, whatever, all I would taste is the sugar as if I scooped a spoonful of refined sugar all by itself into my mouth. Gross! It doesn't taste good anymore. I can sit at Baskin Robbins and enjoy watching my children enjoy their cone of ice cream and not have one itch to join them. I am past it. It doesn't mean I don't still want something sweet now and then, but what I consider sweet has changed altogether. What began as a hunch of what could lie on the other side of a sugar free life, a loss of taste for the stuff, turned out to be pure and true intuition! I also practice wisdom with this knowledge. Because I used to battle a desire for sugar I know that I always have to remain guarded. The freedoms in my health since I quit sugar have been amazing! I feel so good all the time. When I don't feel good I find it odd because it doesn't happen very often. I have a mild and even temperament because my blood sugars are balanced. When you eat a lot of sweets and fats, you crave more sweets and fats because you body is in an unbalanced state desperately trying to find what is called stasis…balance! People who struggle with fats and sweets tend to have more mood swings and irritability than someone who eats clean. We truly are what we eat.
I began this health quest in my early teen years. I consciously decided at the age of thirteen that I didn't want to become like my ancestors who battled obesity, heart disease and high cholesterol. There aren't many thirteen year old girls who, not being raised in a health focused environment, make decisions this deep at such a young age. For whatever reason…I did. I spent most of my youth exploring fitness and studying on my own about nutrition. I think I knew every calorie of every food I could dream of consuming. I was vastly interested in nutrition so it didn't seem like studying or work to me. I had interest. I know that gave me an advantage. We will always invest time, money and ourselves into something we are interested in.
It's been eight years since I took the first step and dared to believe I could eat healthier than the average American diet. If I wanted to live more than just a life of mediocrity I had to achieve excellence in all areas. The greatest factor that enabled me to achieve the goals I set for healthy living was a purpose. Did you catch some hints to my purpose along this story?…
I noticed a deleterious health pattern in my relatives that I didn't want to repeat. I had many things I wanted to do and become in my life and I recognized that in order to get it done, I needed to be healthy.
Ultimately, my deep faith in God lead me here. I know it was what God wanted for me. I know he helped me along as I failed many, many times. This is the stuff that truest and deepest character is made of…when we fall, we get up and "get back on that horse!" For it is but too true, the only ones who fail are those who quit. Don't quit, but even more importantly, do not fail to begin. You are valuable and worthy of so much more than an achy body or lack of energy. I hope I have encouraged you in this. If a kid who grew up on Kool Aid can kick sugar, then surely you can achieve that much more! I believe in you…Let your journey begin… Regardless of how many miles it may take or time to overcome, with that first step…
Simply begin.
November 25, 2012
Never Had a Better Friend
The Lord has striped me in many ways.
Yet, He preserves each and every one of my days.
He took away so much that mattered to me
and in the process grafted me more tightly into His Tree.
He drew me near and showered me with blessings from above.
He gave me increase in my capacity to Love.
He showed me His devotion and care
Yet I know He will not only stop there.
He took me as a seed and planted me in the Earth.
He provided the water of Salvation in Jesus
giving me second birth.
He rose from the grave and captured my soul.
So who am I to complain or be afraid of any foe?
He crowned me with splendor and His Grace crowns my head.
He asked me to walk this earth in an effort to revive the dead.
So many are abandoned and left without Hope.
Without Jesus they are left with no strength to cope.
They turn to drugs, violence, suicide and sin
Never gaining the purity of heart that can free them from within.
Who am I to complain when troubles cross my path?
For I have access to the very Throne of the One giving me life that will last.
Blessed Jesus, my Savior, Companion, my Friend
Who could turn from you, ignoring the battle within?
There is a day to day struggle that occurs
With in the hearts of all men.
Without Jesus, we are doomed to failure
in a battle that has no end.
Seek Jesus, the Savior, a Friend to all man.
Only He can take a shattered life, put it back together
And make it whole once again.
Seek, Jesus, the Savior, who was crucified and rose again.
He knows of your suffering, your loneliness and can take it from you, putting your misery to end.
Seek Jesus! Seek Jesus! I have never known another to be such a great Friend.
I wrote this poem as a love song to my Lord in April of 2004. I came across it today and couldn't help but feel that there are lonely and hurting hearts out there right now who are in need of a friend. I want to do my best to be the friend to others that I have experienced God to be to me. Though I can comfort, encourage and pour hope over you like a moisturizing oil of Joy…There truly is no other like HIM. His love for you is unfailing. You can do nothing to make that stop. He is with you. He is for you. If you only knew how much He adores you. Blessings be yours this day and forever more. ~Nicole
November 20, 2012
A View from Above
Have you ever done any reading about eagles? Magnificent creatures. I once had a New Age person who believed in reincarnation ask me what I wanted to come back as in my next life. I was a little taken back by this question considering I do not believe in reincarnation. Instead of debating and arguing all my reasons why reincarnation was not from God, I answered the question. After all, I had been sharing the love of Jesus with this person and I am pretty sure they were not ready to hear my theological rhetoric. However, all people at all times are ready to be loved, accepted and heard. So…I answered, "an eagle".
Eagles are gorgeous! I love how striking their features. The prominence of the eagles white feathers upon their head. The eagle soars high in the sky, up to 10,000 feet and their eye sight keen. Eagles can live to be 35 years of age, on average. They have a stoicism about them that I always find appealing. Did you know that when an eagle is ill he will fly himself to the highest rock he can find and will sun himself? It is true, that the eagle will lye upon a rock in the open sunlight and sunbath until the infection or illness has been drawn out by the Glorious Rays. What a powerful example of what God can do for us when we draw close to Him. He will draw out all of our impurities. Unfortunately, do not expect a party up on that rock, it is a lonely place for few other birds dare to fly and perch as high as the eagle.
I received a profound blessing. It was a moment in time that was to be captured in my heart and mind for my entire life. The finger tip of God was fully upon it and in it and I knew, in this moment, I had received a rare opportunity to witness something that maybe only an accomplished and patient bird watcher could capture. It was very early in my marriage to John. We were visiting his family, who reside in Connecticut. There are so many beautiful mountains in New England. So different is the landscape from that of California. John and I had decided to go for a hike on a local mountain. We packed water and snacks and took along one of our nieces. The trail that we hiked was literally on the side of a mountain. A thin path carved along the crevice of dirt and rock surrounded by wooded terrain. Our visual range was mountain to the left, vast valley to the right. It was a clear and bright Autumn day. It was gorgeous. As we hiked along we heard a rustle in the brush on the side of the mountain just at our feet. We could barely turn our heads in the direction of the sound of the brush when we saw something that took my breath away. We were right above, maybe 5 to 10 feet, from an eagle's nest. The nest was not visible to the eye, but tucked in the trees. What emerged from the trees was a very large and grand bird. Her wing span must have measured at least 7 feet wide as she spread them and glided away from her home, cascading herself over the valley. Regal. Beautiful. In fact, she was exquisite. She must have been around four or five years old, as this is when an eagle reaches full maturity. So, there I was, standing in awe as I look out OVER THE TOP of an eagle watching her soar. I have seen eagles gliding in the sky before, but never had I ever, live and in person, been directly above such a large and grand bird and seen the view of the top of her wings and back. This was a true honor and gift I believed. I drank in the moment, for I knew I would never get another one like it.
I love that I got to have this experience. I didn't just walk away and say, "Wow, that was cool." My thoughts ran deeper to the Sovereignty of God and how he designed that moment for me. I believe God cares about every detail and experience of our life. I never have been one to think that God is too busy to bother with the details of my little life. I have always been aware that not only does he have time for me he is quite smitten with me as well. Just as an engineer takes pride in his structure. Just as an architect takes pleasure in his design. An artist, who drinks in and savors the fruit of his or her labor. So it is with my God. He is my Creator and takes pleasure in all that he has created. It says so right in His book.
"The LORD is faithful to all of His promises and looks lovingly over all He has created." Psalm 145:13
Knowing that I had this belief that God has His hand in everything whether I chose to recognize it or not, how could I take for granted such a gift and not take advantage of the opportunity to make declaration over my own life? That is what I did…I made declaration over my life and prayed to God for it to be as I said. I prayed and thanked God immediately, expressing my gratitude for what I had just witnessed. What I did next, I challenge you to do in your own life. I asked God that this would be a symbolic declaration and a sign in my life of things to come. I didn't have any ideas what things, but wanted His plans and my potential to equal such heights. I prayed that I would not only soar on the heights like an eagle, but that I would climb so high that I would soar above the eagles. See, the bible says this,
"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31
Thank the Lord for the bountiful blessings and opportunities he has granted. They are there, even when you are in a hard place, there are glimpses of God promises and His goodness to you all around. We have to stop and notice before they can be seen. In this week of Thanksgiving, dare yourself to believe and dream again. If your hopes are shattered and dreams unfulfilled, worry not, He has a plan and sees every hill, every valley, every wooded glen and shadowy landscape. He is with you and sometimes the most precious blessings are experienced while you are climbing that hill. I believe in you and can see a God who believes in you, too. Soar higher than the eagles with me.
I frequently have people ask me to pray for them because, as they put it, "God hears me." While it is always my delight to pray for people, and indeed God does hear me and He answers me as well. But guess what, he hears you also! He hears everything. We need only be still and climb toward Him so we can grow in our understanding and ability to hear Him back. When I prayed this prayer those many years ago, I had no idea what it meant to "make declaration" over myself. I just knew I wanted good things in my life and I believed in prayer so I asked. I wasn't versed in "Christianity" or "Purpose". I didn't even know my purpose yet at that point in my life. I did, however, know God loved me. He loves you, too, so very much. Don't be afraid to ask.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all…I love Thanksgiving, it is a special time of the year. Of course, as always, you know how much I genuinely care for and love you, God's Masterpiece.
November 17, 2012
A Word to Live By…
Loyalty. Loyalty is defined as such~ 1.The state or quality of being loyal; faithfulness to commitments or obligations. 2. Faithful adherence to a sovereign government, leader, cause, etc. (www.Dictionary.com)
A few synonyms for loyalty that stand out to me are "devotion" and "constancy". Constancy, that's a good one. It has strength, don't you think? It makes me immediately think on the word "un-waivering". Not changing or yielding…constant.
You may be asking yourself, "why all this talk of loyalty?"
I am a huge believer in its importance. I believe it penetrates each person to the deepest levels and has influence that trickles through our every relationship and our every decision. We make choices on product purchases and restaurants we frequent, stores we shop in, all because of a sense of loyalty we may feel for one reason or another. Usually, we are loyal to something or someone because we had a positive experience, encounter, relationship. Some loyalties are casual in nature, maybe based on convenience. Other loyalties are a tie that run deep and chart the coarse of our daily lives. Loyalty can be based on Purpose. Loyalty may be present between individuals for one small yet profound reason…family.
I am a very loyal person, always have been, it is my nature. At times, I will choose the inconvenience or added expense just to remain loyal to a certain business owner. I know it is a way I can be a blessing and for whatever the reason I make that choice. I am aware that loyalty traits do not come naturally to everyone. If you know anything regarding personality types and temperaments, there are four basic categories of personalities with a whole host of traits each personality type represents. I won't be going into major detail about these personality types and traits, but I will say that they are called Choleric, Sanguine, Phlegmatic, and Melancholy. Each person has one of these four as their foundational blueprint of personality. The fascinating thing is that we are all so unique, we have other components of other personality traits mixed in. A choleric person is the person in charge, leader, gets things done. The Sanguine is so much fun to be around. They make even the toughest chores a party and everyone loves them! The Phlegmatic person is a good friend and is known for their staunch loyalties. The melancholy is very organized and particular about things. Each personality has positive and negative traits. I could go on and on, but my point is, some people are more naturally loyal, myself being one of them. Yes, us Phlegmatic personalities are just like a golden retriever, an analogy commonly made in psychology circles and literature.
I am a lot like my Dad. My Dad was always my greatest example of loyalty growing up. It's in looking back and seeing now, his constant display of friendship to his peers. He is there for them always, whenever needed. Everyone knows they can call on my Dad…they can count on my Dad. Faithful. Constant. Loyal. I see it in how my Father treated his family. His loyalty to us was and is a constant example that this is what family looks like. I know that I have much to be grateful for…not everyone has this.
Because I have a natural bend toward loyalties and then the example of my Father, I have had a lifetime of reinforcement toward "loyalty". Not everyone has had this kind of reinforcement. I am realizing more and more that our culture is becoming more and more a culture that has abandoned this concept, idea, way of living. Fewer and fewer people are familiar with true loyalty. We are becoming a society of "loyal to self alone". This observation and discovery saddens me to a deep level. So much so I decided to blog about it. Maybe, if only one, I can educate and demonstrate what loyalty is and why it is so important for us as a nation, but even more so, it is foundational to myself and all of those who call themselves "The Church".
Families are known for loyalties one to another. They are our blood relatives and even when we are at odds or estranged, something rises in us when our family members are compromised or in harms way. We would move a mountain to make a difference for them. I know this isn't true for all families, but in general, it is very applicable. It is a part of what makes a family nucleus unified. Through hard times and easy times, loyalty is a tie that binds…family.
A nation is built up of families. Individuals who come from a mother , a father, and usually siblings as well. We have relationship, some closer than others, but family. It is an undeniable yoke that holds us together…no matter what. The more that families crumble in our culture the more children are forced to grow up too fast and become independent at young ages, the more each becomes focused on protecting one's self. It is instinctual really and I cannot fault anyone who has had circumstances that force them to this mindset. Self preservation comes alive looking out for "me", loyal to "me". This is the mindset of a narcissistic person. Narcissism is clearly and definably on the rise in America especially in younger generations. It is difficult for someone who is looking out for themselves first to be truly loyal to others. Loyalty requires that we think outside of ourselves and sometimes even yield our own best interest to the best interest of another. Loyalty, at times, requires sacrifice…self sacrifice.
So, what we do as Christians? What can we, "The Church" do to make a difference? We want to see the world a better place, our country in a better direction. We think in bigger terms like changes in Washington and taxes, etc. Honestly, real change can come when we treat each other as family. When the Church becomes loyal to each other.
I get a picture in my mind of an old fashion wagon wheel. The pioneers moved across the plains to settle in the Western United States. They drove wagons with large wooden wheels. These wheels had spokes or cogs made of thick wood with a hub in the center. The hub connected to the axle that connected the wheel on each side of the wagon. The spokes created a firm support inside the framework of the wheel. The wagon could not roll without the wheel. Bear with me here, the wheel was a critical piece of equipment, but had no redeeming value without the help of the spokes for support, the hub for connection and the axle to unit all four wheels beneath the wagon which carried the people. Are you with me? I am going somewhere with this.
Now picture all Christians united. We are working together, paving the way like a pioneer driving across a plain, full of Hope for a better Life. We are not the Baptists, Pentecostals, Presbyterians, Lutherans or Catholics, etc. We are not "the church over here that is anointed to do this great work" or "this one over here that does that great work". We are The Body. We are each like a wheel, a spoke, a cog, a hub, an axle, a wagon. All working together to carry the people…the sick, the wounded, the poor, the broken hearted, the lonely, the lost, and the afflicted, to the destination of Healing Virtue. We move every stone out of the way that may cause one of the least of these to stumble. We build up the high way. Not a literal highway, but the Way, the Truth and the Life. (John 14:6)
How can we make a difference, a true and definite difference in the lives of others if we are not in total and complete loyalty and unity one to another? When we are loyal we celebrate each other's victories and cry with each other's defeat. We carry each other. We love each other. We sacrifice for each other. We favor each other. We provide for and bless one another. We spend our time thinking on each other. We never compete with each other because we are too busy upholding one another. WE ARE THE BODY! We are to pave the way, to make way, so others may live and that they may live abundantly.
"Pass through, pass through the gates!
Prepare the way for the people.
Build up, build up the highway!
Remove the stones.
Raise a banner for the nations." Isaiah 62:10
I know my words are strong, but I am speaking to myself as well. I want to be a living, breathing, example of the Love of God and the Unity and Loyalty of the Church. Let us be so incredibly intoxicating with our beauty that we ravage the gangs of their members! Our Loyalty is free of condemnation and guilt and full of Peace and Freedom. I Believe in you and I know you can do it. I will uphold you and ask that you would do the same for me. Together, we can make a difference! We are the Church and Loyalty is a word we can live by. ~Nicole
November 2, 2012
Gorgeous Face
I have a friend named Jackie. Jackie and I have gone to church together for many years, but it was only in the last four years that I really got to know her. It's funny how God works sometimes. I had signed up to volunteer in the Wednesday night preschool class at my church. It was a time of transition and change at my church and more help was needed. I really felt the Lord direct me to that particular age group. I could have selected second grade or another group of girls to work with, but I strongly discerned preschool was where I was to go. I find humor in this because I thought God was directing me to preschool because they need a lot of supervision and preschool is usually one of the hardest age groups to find volunteers for (because they are so busy). That's what I thought anyway. Though it's true, it is a hard group to find volunteers for and they do need much supervision, that isn't the real reason God wanted me there…it was Jackie.
In this season I got to know Jackie on a deeper level. I had always had a fond appreciation for how Jackie glowed when she worshipped God. It was so beautiful to me, but what I saw as I grew closer to her was that her spirit glowed all the time, not just during worship. We'd meet every week to teach and watch those little ones, but we'd also have some of the most incredible fellowship, conversations and prayers together. We would share of different experiences we had in life and how God really used it to grow us, bless us, protect us. It was very common for the both of us to get a bit teary eyed as we would recap God's grace and goodness. I remember when she told me the whole story of her becoming a Christian and all the mess God rescued her from. The beauty in which she shared her story amazed me…truly beautiful…gorgeous even. On many occasions I would leave Wednesday night church and spend the entire drive home praying and weeping and thanking God that I knew Jackie and had those times with her. My appreciation for her was immeasurable. It's not every day you have that kind of edifying and mutually encouraging fellowship…she was such a blessing. Her heart was so genuine, so pure, so loving…she looked like Jesus to me. I'd get home and my husband would wonder why I was crying and ask what was wrong. I'd say, "Oh, nothing, I just love Jackie." I know it seems silly, but I am a very sentimental person and I have a deep passion for people. Jackie was not just a sister, she was truly a kindred spirit soul sister. I felt tremendous unity of spirit with her…that was special.
Today I said goodbye to Jackie as I went to celebrate her life and burial amongst her family and friends. It was bitter sweet. I rejoiced for her, for she suffered no more and was no doubt dancing and worshipping in heaven. I felt compassion for her family who grieved for her. Their tears and cries of love made my heart ache. But once again, Jackie found a way to bless me. So many times she and I would pray for her family, people I hadn't met before. Today I got to meet a few of them and catch up with others I hadn't seen in a long while….family. God's family.
Thank you, Jackie, you may be gone for now, but I will see you again. I will never grow weary of bragging on you and how you blessed me with your pure and sweet love for Christ. I carry a piece of you with me always. ~Nicole
Unified Message
With the Presidential elections here there is so much talk about politics these days. Each person has their own convictions, beliefs, opinions. Some are boisterous with their proclamations and adamant with their views, while others keep them quietly tucked within, only sharing when needed or asked. We are all different, but we are all the same. We are Americans. Our preamble of this nations great Constitution starts like this:
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America"
I am extremely Patriotic. I display my patriotism in silly little ways like preferring stamps with the flag pictured on them and I cry when I sing or hear the National Anthem. (In fact, a few years back we were in Australia for the Olympics and stayed with a host family, I made it a point to teach each of them our National Anthem and explain why Americans were so patriotic.) I prefer to buy made in USA products, and I prefer to shop with local merchants over large discount stores. There are other ways I display patriotism on deeper levels…I believe it is my moral duty to exercise my right to vote and to be an informed voter. I vote my biblical beliefs over any alignment with political party or person. I spend much time in prayer, seeking wisdom and guidance for my vote. Though my vote may not always be popular with man, I want it to be popular with God.
I see a shifting in our country, this great melting pot, as it was once called. We are becoming more and more divided on our beliefs over where the direction of this great nation should go. I am definitely not a political commentator. In fact, I avoid discussing politics because I am not a gifted debater and quite frankly, a lot of it goes right over my head. I think if most politicians were honest, it goes over their heads, too. So my purpose for this post is not to discuss politics, but to possibly stir you a bit and get you to think about how you can make a profound difference to unify our land once again. You DO have that much power….and it is on your knees. "On my knees?", you ask? Yes. We can pray for our land, but we can also listen for the voice of God to speak ever so subtly, or even loud and direct, what He would have us do. But what I am about to say next is what can really shake a nation to it's foundations and cause it to re-direct and regain focus on it's promise to be a nation "of the people, by the people and for the people." (Abraham Lincoln, "The Gettysburg Address)...We obey.
"Bend the Church, bow the world." ~Evan Roberts
Mel Gibson made a movie several years ago called, "The Patriot". I love this movie. In fact, it's one of my favorites. I saw two scenes in that movie, when I watched it for the first time, that penetrated my heart deeply. I will never forget what God showed me and I have acted upon it. I don't know if you've seen this movie, but there is a scene early in the show where the British had come upon the plantation of a farmer (Mel Gibson) and one of his sons was killed, while another son (a courier in the colonial army) was taken as a prisoner of war. Benjamin (Mel Gibson) proceeded to gather two very young sons, maybe 8 and 10 years old, giving them each a riffle while running into the wood. They were going to rescue the older son. Each boy did EXACTLY what their father told them to do. Their obedience saved their own lives and the life of their imprisoned brother. As I watched this, I was penetrated within. I only had one child at the time and she was an infant. I thought to myself, "teach my children first time obedience and it could save their life." How so it is with us, even as adults. The Voice of the Lord is all around us. God is with us, as Believers He is in us by vehicle of the Wonderful Counselor, and He desires to move His Presence through us. He is ready to guide us and direct us and give us our "marching orders", just like those little boys. It is when we listen, we pray and we obey that results are profound.
The second scene that impacted me was negative in nature but profound in wisdom. One of the men from Benjamin's community becomes a traitor and fights for the British armies. He (the traitor) is taken with one commander of the British army to find Benjamin's town and family. The entire community is locked in the local church and this man is instructed to burn the church full of innocent men, woman and children. The actor displays true depth of emotion on his face as you can discern his internal quandary over the matter. He knows these people, for he worked and lived beside him. Then, you see fear come over his face and he changes his countenance. Though not wanting to commit this horrible act, he does so, obeying orders for fear of his own life.
Wisdom…my delayed obedience to God may delay some other persons blessing. Worse still, my disobedience could harm someone else's life. It's important to Trust God and obey his commands, no matter the cost. My obedience or disobedience affects far more people than just myself…I cannot be selfish.(Matt. 16:24-25)
"If my people, who call upon my name, will humble themselves, and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14
We are all tied together. Our lives ebb and flow amongst each other, around each other, and sometimes intertwined with each other. Our every action and decision is affecting someone else, not just ourselves. We all carry great responsibility with every choice and every decision that can have immediate and trickle down effects for decades and generations to come. Some of these effects we may see, and many we will not. But they will still exist. Make wise choices. Seek God for wisdom. I'm not just speaking of the elections and voting…I am speaking on Life. If we want to see our nation turn around, then we, I'm speaking to the Church here, we need to be on our knees praying, listening, obeying the direction of God in our lives. We must humble ourselves. We must sacrifice our own selfish wants and desires and do the right thing, the best thing, the God thing.
"The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love…" Numbers 14:18


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Oct 28 2009
Mac & Yease
Mac & WHAT?! That's right, it's Mac & Yease, or rather the vegan version of Mac & Cheese. Having a vegan boyfriend has gotten me on a fun quest for delicious vegan recipe favorites. While on a recent trip to Seattle, we stumbled across the amazing Spicy Mac 'N' Yease at Plum Bistro, an all-vegan restaurant in Capitol Hill. A seriously yum-tastic dish, it started me on a quest to somehow recreate it at home. The following recipe is the closest that I have come to Plum's genius, and has quickly become a household favorite. Enjoy!
Mac & Yease
- 1/2 Cup Margarine
- 1/2 Cup Flour
- 1 Cup Nutritional Yeast
- 3 1/2 Cup Boiling Water
- 1 1/2 Tsp. Salt
- 1 1/2 Tsp. Garlic Powder
- 1 Pinch of Turmeric
- 1 Pinch of Cayenne Pepper
- about 1 Tbsp. Red Pepper Flakes
- 2 Tbsp. Soy Sauce
- 1/2 to 1 Tbsp. Mustard
Making It
- Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil, add salt to taste, and add macaroni.
- Melt the margarine over low heat. Beat in flour with a wire whisk. Continue to beat over medium heat until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Whip in boiling water. Add salt, garlic powder, turmeric, cayenne, pepper flakes, soy sauce and mustard to the liquid.
- Let the sauce cook until it thickens and bubbles. When that happens, beat in nutritional yeast. If the sauce is too thick, add more water.
- When the macaroni is cooked, drain and add the sauce. Serve immediately.
I sometimes stir in shredded vegan mozzarella cheese until it's all melted for a creamier version.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
UMass men's soccer falls to Hartford
September 7, 2009
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With a third straight NCAA Tournament bid as their goal, the Massachusetts men's soccer team is discovering how hard it may be as they have started the young season out winless.
The Minutemen (0-1-1) fell to Hartford, 2-0, Saturday night, in its second regular season game, as two late second half goals from Hawks forward Carlos Villa cemented the win.
The Hawks dominated both sides of the ball, outshooting UMass 18-5 and allowing just two shots in the first half and three shots on goal throughout the game.
After a scoreless first frame, Villa scored his first of two goals in the 70th minute on a free kick following a Minuteman yellow card.
Six minutes later, he struck again, in the right corner past keeper Shane Curran- Hayes for an insurance tally.
Curran-Hayes is vying to fill former standout goalkeeper Zach Simmons's spot with fellow junior Chris Piekos.
Curran-Hayes had five saves, while Piekos had seven – including back-to-back-to-back saves in the first overtime of a double overtime match against No. 24 Boston University last Tuesday.
"That was [Piekos'] first varsity start that counts," UMass coach Sam Koch said. "He did a great job in the spring for us. I'm not surprised, I'm pleased but I'm not surprised that he did that, but we have a battle. Shane is an outstanding keeper too, so the two of them battling who is going to start is going to be interesting."
The Minutemen tied the visiting nationally ranked Terriers 1-1 in both teams season opener, as redshirt sophomore defender Sam Denormandie scored his second career goal in the physical contest that ended in a 1-1 draw.
"I think the fact that we only had one scrimmage and getting over the fact that we didn't play UConn last weekend because of the weather, it was a good result for us," Koch said.
Although Koch was pleased with how his team kept up with an extremely talented team, there were some things that UMass will need to work on.
"The goal that was ruled offside's was bad marking on our parts. We made some mistakes that this game exposed, and were fortunate to get away with it. As the season goes on, were not going to [get away with them], so we have time to clean those things up."
The Terriers were the second nationally ranked team on the Minutemen's schedule, as UMass was supposed to play No.12 Connecticut on Aug. 29. The exhibition match was rained out, but the Minutemen were able to play Adelphi on Aug. 22 in an exhibition match, winning 2-1.
"There were a lot of things we didn't know, so in a way [the BU game] was a scrimmage for us. Our fitness level I think is ok, we have some freshman, and you don't know what they can do yet, and we got them some time."
Freshman defender Dominic Skrajewski started for the Minutemen against the Terriers, with Tyler Brown, Matt Johnson and Brodie Steigerwald getting solid minutes in their first regular season game at BU.
Against Adelphi, sophomore forward Chris Roswess scored twice in 21 minutes to lead the Minutemen to their first victory after the Panthers took the lead in the 63rd minute.
Koch has been impressed with the first three games, but feels that the team must execute their skills effectively but easily.
"We've got to play simple. A lot of times when we try to take the extra cuts, we try to turn when we shouldn't have turned, we have combinations that we didn't find, and we have to go over that."
The Minutemen will next travel to Burlington, Vt. to compete in the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Classic, facing New Hampshire on Friday and Vermont on Sunday.
David Brinch can be reached at [email protected]


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THE SILENCE What It Is How To Use It
"I Have Faith and Conviction in My Ultimate Success."
I believe the Scripture: "My ways are not your ways, saith the Lord;
neither are my thoughts your thoughts, for as the heavens are higher
than the earth, so are my thoughts higher than your thoughts."
I understand by this Scripture that the thoughts of the Infinite God
are far above the understanding of finite me; that God's ways are
higher than my ways. "God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to
I also have faith and conviction in my ultimate success because I am a
part of the Infinite Spirit, and in the Infinite Spirit, there can be
no failure. I am harmonious, complete and successful in Spirit--in God.
I may not see my success today, or I may feel as though I have
accomplished little, but I know that all my efforts and energies, in
the past, present and future, are working together for my good.
Therefore, I shall hold the thought that my success has already been
achieved. I am Success, I have success now and forever! Therefore, I
think only success; I talk only success; I believe only in success; I
am demonstrating success, and I know that success is mine.
The needed lessons I am having now, have had in the past, and may
require in the future, are but necessary stepping stones to my greater
success. The apparent delay of my greater success means that I am now
demonstrating more success than I could otherwise have. Dreams that I
have dreamed, visions that I have visualized, and the goal that I have
mapped out, are all a part of my ultimate greater success. I have that
now! I am successful now!
As Moses went into the land of Midian, and spent forty years of his
life as a shepherd in the wilderness--(apparently with no future before
him--which, however, was the great schooling necessary for his greater
triumphant success in the future)--so I may be, in _my_ land of Midian,
apparently, only a sheep herder, but in reality getting the necessary
training for my greater and ultimate success.
Therefore, I now rejoice in every experience I have--giving thanks for
every apparent set back, and for every "seeming" blocking of my
purposes and aspirations.
I believe that my past experiences, as well as present happenings, are
for my benefit, and that I could not have been the great success I am,
and shall be, had not the discouragements of yesterday, the
perplexities of today and the drawbacks of tomorrow come into my life.
I realize that I need to go into the land of Midian; that it is as
necessary for me, as it was for Moses, to spend a few years in the
wilderness of Life's experience. I am happy to know that I am in such
company as that of the Great Leader of his people, and rejoice in the
thought that the Lord has called me to spend my time in the land of
Midian, getting the necessary training for the greater things the Lord
has in store for me.
There is no place in the world where clouds do not gather, and storms
do not rage; but when the storms abate, and the skies clear, then do we
appreciate more fully the glories and beauties of God, the Universe and
its natural laws, and Infinite Love.
However, I know by experience in the land of Midian, where clouds hover
low, and where storms try the soul and body, that the dawn of a new day
shall make life all the sweeter for me and mine.
Moses could not have enjoyed leading his people into the promised land,
had he not been in the land of Midian. If he had stayed forever in the
Court of Pharaoh, with its attendant luxuries, life would have taken on
a dull, monotonous hue, and his experience would have seemed drab,
wearisome and pale.
I am glad for the privilege accorded me to be in the land of Midian for
a short time! I know that, as did Moses, I shall enjoy my promised land
all the more when my greater success shall have been well worked out by
the hand of Divinity.
Faith and conviction in my ultimate greater success is stronger today
than ever! I hold such a strong thought, and such a deep and courageous
faith in the workings of God's plan, that I know I now have that which
has been intended for me, and nothing can take from me that which the
Lord hath prepared for my success, health and happiness. I know, too,
that I shall learn daily to enjoy, appreciate, and make better use of
the success I now possess; that I shall unfold day by day into greater
opportunities for more influence, power, friendship, charity, love,
comradeship and service. I know that my present success is but a part
of the greater success which the Lord has waiting for me--"just around
the corner".
Therefore, I shall offer up prayers of thanksgiving and gratitude; I
shall work harder, being more particular in the preparation for my
greater work, than I have been in the past--never doubting but that
every moment spent in this greater preparation will bring added
interests, and a greater success in the future.
Even as Moses did not doubt the wisdom of the Lord for a greater future
(when in the land of Midian for forty years), so shall I not doubt His
ways today.
I claim, with a joyful heart and an attitude of thanksgiving, that my
life could not have been as great in the future had I been denied my
present experience. I know that greater things are in store for me,
because God's thoughts are greater than my thoughts; because He is
giving me that training now, in my land of Midian, which I most need. I
trust the guiding Spirit of Infinite Love to lead me, at the right
time, into my life's Promised Land.
The success today, in my land of Midian, is attracting unto me the
greater influence and power in my Court of Pharaoh, and in my
leadership, as I lead others into that promised land which the Lord has
prepared for me and mine.
I smile--I sing--I rejoice, and offer thanksgiving and gratitude for my
success now and forever. Surely I believe more and more: "My thoughts
are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways, saith the Lord,"
and all things are now working together for my good.
Therefore, I have faith and conviction in my ultimate success--in my
greater success--in my greatest success!
* * * * *
Viewed: 2947


text:
BC: you know you liked it
FC: Passion
1: This scrapbook is dedicated to my horse,best friend, and life Tobey.
2: All I pay my psychiatrist is the cost of feed and hay, and he'll listen to me any day. ~Author Unknown
4: The beginning | everyone has to start somewhere, sometimes is takes years to become anything close to good at something. -Julianna (72) Flipped
5: ride ride like everyone is watching smile smile like no one is watching jump jump like the world is depending on it laugh laugh like you just don't care love love like you never have love love like you never will again
6: "once your horse always your horse" -Beezie Madden
7: What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies. ~ Aristotle
8: "Love is the master key that opens the gates of happiness." - Oliver Wendell Holmes
9: He knows when you're happy He knows when you're comfortable He knows when you're confident And he always knows when you have carrots. ~Author Unknown
11: "things never start perfect, and the things that do never have passion." -Julianna's mom (203) Flipped
12: before | after
13: I gave you a home You gave me a passion I gave you food you gave me happiness I gave you love You made me feel loved I thought silently as I hugged your neck and you nudged my face
14: "The view and the sounds and the colors and the wind, and how being up so high felt like flying,Felt like magic." - Julianna (38) Flipped
16: I look into your sweet brown eyes, reflecting the time we had. I'm glad we got to spend it together, but leaving you was rather sad. I watch you prance around the ring, your head and tail held high. Your eyes gleam at what they see, And I awkwardly say goodbye. -Paul Cunneen
19: we've always been there for each other through our worst times
22: "It is so empowering that i can not even explain" -Lynetta(46) Flipped
23: "the choices you make now will affect you for the rest of your life.Do the right thing." -Bryce's Granddad (181) Flipped
24: Through the air as if suspended, Legs extended and tail flapping, Gliding smoothly in full view, The horse lands on legs of steel. The rhythm of experienced hooves Combines with sunken eyes. The sighs and groans of exhaustion Combine with the young rider's Bold determination. Horse and rider blend. Together they appear Horse with rider. They ride as one. With great force The horse springs, Travels far Across endless sky. Viewers gaze, Faces in wonder, Full of surprise But the legs of steel Feel fragile. | -Les Zsoldos
30: oovoo


text: We are an established company in Australia, the main areas of iron ore, scrap steel, we maintain with China's good relations with large companies, as they find the resources to meet the requirements of the worldwide. If you're iron mines' owner or have used rails, please contact us, we will contact buyers with China as soon as possible. Email: email@example.com


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Double-sided colour print (4/4)
Printed on 300 gsm art print paper
spot UV varnish makes individual design elements pop.
Glossy highlights reflect natural light to create special effects.
partial finishing is only possible on the front.
For detailed information on how to create spot finishes in your artwork file, see here.
Data format (incl. 2.00 mm bleed): 5.90 x 5.90 cm
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Fonts must be completely imbedded or converted to curves.
colour mode CMYK as with FOGRA51 (PSO Coated v3)
Maximum colour application of 300%
We will not check for spelling and/or typographical errors.
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To be noted for spot UV varnish and relief varnish:
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lines need to be at least 3 points (1.06 mm) wide
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Colours may appear differently because of the varnish
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July 27 2015
Media Coverage
SALT RIVER PIMA-MARICOPA INDIAN COMMUNITY, Ariz. (July 27, 2015) -Talking Stick Resort, an enterprise of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, is thrilled to announce that its fine-dining restaurant, Orange Sky, has earned Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for the fifth year in a row. The signature eatery at Talking Stick Resort – which is named after its breathtaking views of the Arizona sunsets—features an impeccable wine list selection of more than 300 bottles and 30 wines by the glass. "We're proud Wine Spectator has decided to recognize Orange Sky once again," said Ramon Martinez, director of public relations for Talking Stick Resort. "The restaurant is our culinary jewel so we're elated to see our wine offerings receive such a prestigious award. It truly is an honor and we don't take the recognition lightly."
Deemed by many the go-to guide for tastings, wine ratings and dining, Wine Spectator evaluates wine lists annually. Each year, restaurants have an opportunity to win one of three awards including the Grand Award, Best of Award of Excellence and Award of Excellence. The latter award recognizes wine lists with a minimum of 90 choices that coincide with the restaurant's dining options. Orange Sky was one among more than 2,500 restaurants to receive the accolade in 2015 and as an award recipient, the upscale eatery will be featured in Wine Spectator's Aug. 31 edition.
To qualify for an award from Wine Spectator, the restaurant's wine list must showcase complete, accurate information, including appellations and vintages for all selections. The complete producer names, as well as correct spellings, are required and the overall presentation of the wine list is also reviewed.
Orange Sky contains 200 seats and a versatile menu that will satisfy all tastes. The restaurant's glass wine room contains more than 100 white wine selections, which are stored in a temperature controlled environment of 42 degrees, and red wines that are kept safely in hand-crafted, cedar wood wine racks. The true epitome of elegance, all of Orange Sky's wines are served in lead crystal glassware, fitting to the varietal.
Located on the 15th floor of Talking Stick Resort, the Scottsdale signature restaurant offers a romantic décor, 360-degree vistas of the Valley, aged beef and fresh seafood. For more restaurant information or reservations call (480) 850-8606 or visit www.talkingstickresort.com.


text:
Item #: S661859
Personalized 178-Piece Art Set
Sale Price$59.99
Original Price$79.99
Save 25%
Only $10.00 a Month Buy Now, Pay Later
Additional Information
Product Details
An amazing array that fits into a professional-style case —with artistic personalization!
- 178-Piece set includes:
- 40 markers
- 40 crayons
- 36 colored pencils
- 20 watercolor cakes
- 15 oil pastels
- 12 acrylic paints
- 4 drawing pencils
- 4 brushes
- Palette, sponge, eraser, pencil sharpener and water bottle
Additional Information
Ratings & Reviews
Personalized 178-Piece Art Set is rated out of 5 by 82.
Rated 5 out of 5 by Elizabeth A from Perasonalized 178 piece art set I had this before. I enjoyed it so much had to have another one. Thank you so much
Date published: 2019-11-10
Rated 5 out of 5 by Doudledoo from Amazing! This item is amazing. And the personalization is spot on. My budding artist grandaughter will be ecstatic at Christmas.
Date published: 2018-11-16
Rated 5 out of 5 by Patty Jackson from Great find Grandson loved it since he is quite the artist. He loved the fact his name was on it also.
Date published: 2017-12-30
Rated 5 out of 5 by Dee Memmer from Very very happy! I'm thrilled to be able to give this to my granddaughter! She has become a great artist at a very young age and takes care of all her supplies! The case is very well made and her name looks perfect.
Date published: 2017-11-30
Rated 5 out of 5 by John Carder from Kids Creativity!!! My nephew just received this for his 8th birthday! Also received his RC truck/trailer with an RC 4 wheeler from Montgomery Wards. I guess I'm his favorite uncle right now. He enjoys the art set and told me to make sure I get one for his sister for Xmas, and I will!
Date published: 2017-11-22
Rated 5 out of 5 by Angie Runyon from BEAUTIFUL Beautiful personalization. PERFECT gift for my artist daughter
Date published: 2017-10-13
Rated 4 out of 5 by Kapeka from Liked product! Daughter loved it and with her name on the outside of the case.
Date published: 2017-01-27
Rated 5 out of 5 by Rosa from Wonderful Beautiful personalization, grandchild loved it, very satisfied
Date published: 2017-01-03
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text:
{This post has been edited to bring it in line with the Norwex media policy}
Today's blog post was supposed to be an announcement of the three winners for Fabulous Norwex Body & Baby cloths, AND the announcement of the next Giveaway. But instead, I've given you Homemade Natural Mosquito Repellent, plus an Organic Bug Spray Review. What gives?
Well, I will announce the winners of the last giveaway.
BUT – it turns out I am breaking the Norwex code of conduct by doing Norwex giveaways online, that do not originate with head office. This is basically because they don't want consultants undercutting each other, which is fair enough. Norwex is very committed to being an ethical company, and I guess this is part of that commitment.
So giveaways are fine to do in a private group, or party etc, where you are not potentially trying to entice customers away from another consultant (because they are already at your party or in your email or Facebook group or whatever), but not on a public website.
So, the last giveaway was only available to those who were also on my email list – so I will make an announcement of the winners via email instead, and future giveaways will only be in private settings.
Having said that – did you know that Norwex host gifts (which are fully company funded, not special gifts from me) are INCREDIBLY generous? And that you can get them by having an online party, just as easily as by having an in person party?
PLUS for an online party you don't have to cook, clean up, or even get out of your pajamas, if you don't want to! So if you would like to try some Norwex products and were hoping to do so in future giveaways, why not host a party?
I am more than happy to run a party for you on Facebook, or in person if you are nearby, OR if you would like an in-home party and you are not in the Canberra area, I can refer you on to another Norwex consultant. Just let me know – if you're not on my email list, contact me via my facebook page, or my contact page.


text:
Efficiency Clean Energy At Last!
Around the world there have been some very dramatic changes in governments and as the election mania settles down clean energy advocates are holding their collective breath wondering what it will mean for renewable power. Will we continue to invest in new ideas and products that support a reduction in the use of fossil fuels or we move in the other direction towards coal and oil?
Regardless what happens with local or federal governments, cost effective and efficient ( same thing? ) clean energy technology has a life of it's own. For example solar pv and wind energy technology are at the point where the electricity they produce can be at the same cost as grid energy. Or lower.
Countries that decide to place tarifs or disincentives on clean energy will simply miss the economic opportunity to lead in these industries. This means they will also miss the opportunity to create millions of jobs in these fields in the next 10 years.
An example of a clean energy technology that has such a tremendous advantage to society and so virtually there is no way to stop it, is hybrid concentrated solar thermal photovoltaic systems.
With simple solar photovoltaic technology the best that we can do today is an efficieny some what less than 20%. If we combine solar pv with concentration of the solar rays and collection of the waste heat produced that efficiency can go over 70%!
Governments Ignore This High Efficiency Clean Energy Technology At Their Own Peril!
At this level of efficiency which is higher than an other form of electricity conversion of any kind, universal clean energy becomes a real possibility. Take a look at the future solution to power our planet.
Gordon Smith
Gordon's expertise in the area of industrial energy efficiency and alternative energy. He is an experienced electrical engineer with a Masters degree in Alternative Energy technology. He is the co-founder of several renewable energy media sites including Solar Thermal Magazine.
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Lift and revitalise lifeless locks with the Big Root Pump Volumizing Spray Mousse from Sexy Hair, a body-boosting formula that works to create volume and fullness from the roots.
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About Beer Reviews & My Rating System
I'll try any beer once, but there's many beers that I won't try twice. With that being said, let's talk about what types of beer will be reviewed on The Best Craft Beer Blog, and how my rating system works.
The beer reviews here on the The Best Craft Beer Blog are fairly straightforward. I'll make comments about each beer in four main categories:
- Packaging
- Appearance
- Aroma
- Taste
The big difference you'll notice between this blog and some others is that I don't rate based on "mouthfeel." Despite the fact that I realize different beers have different body to them, carbonation levels, etc....honestly, mouthfeel has never made a major impact to me on whether or not I enjoyed the beer. I may make general comments occasionally, but it won't be a focus of the reviews. I've included packaging because it's worth noting what vessel/method the beer was served (can, bottle, growler, on tap, garden hose, etc), and because right now, the artwork on beer labelling is as great as it's ever been and it's worth mentioning. I don't assign points to any category, the reviews are simply what I'm observing as I smell and taste the beer and marvel at its magnificence.
The best part about my rating system is: THERE IS NO RATING SYSTEM!
Personally, I've never been a fan of "1 to 10" or "star" rating systems - for anything. What can possibly cause something to be rated a 7.4 instead of a 7.6? Instead, I take a basic "yes or no" approach...I either like the beer or I don't. As I mentioned in a previous post about why this site is called The Best Craft Beer Blog, I like to exaggerate when I enjoy something. So if I think that new barrel-aged bourbon stout of yours is delicious - in that moment, it's "The Best." Think of it as a term of endearment. It doesn't mean I think it's absolute best beer of its kind (trust me, I'll say if I do), it just means that I liked it and would drink it again. A seal of approval, if you will. Easy rating system, right? It's the best!
"I'll try any beer once, but there's many beers that I won't try twice."
As far as what types of beer will be reviewed, well that's pretty open-ended. Any style of an actual beer will be featured, of course (duh). But, every now & then you can also expect to see ciders, meade and anything in between - basically any type of alcoholic beverage that has been brewed via fermentation. Wines (which I do enjoy), spirits (hello, delicious scotch) & coolers (ugh) need not apply.
Something else that I feel is important to mention: I will use proper brewing terminology whenever possible, but I don't claim to know everything and I never try to bullshit my way through something I can't explain. So if I simply think that a beer "tastes like awesome," and want to convey that message, then taste like awesome it shall.
Outside of reviews, there will be other features, such as brewery visits and beer-related events, random thoughts related to beer and brewing news, and documentation (both good and bad) of my forays into home brewing. That part should be fun.
And by all means - this blog will only get better with your feedback. So please, let me know what you think by leaving your comments & questions below. And like anything - enjoy responsibly.
Bottoms up.


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"Déjà Vu" is a hit 1979 ballad song written by Isaac Hayes and Adrienne Anderson and recorded by Dionne Warwick in 1979. It was the second single released from her Arista debut album, Dionne, which was produced by Barry Manilow. The song was Warwick's fifth and last top 40 single of her 1970s period and her second top 40 single following the release of "I'll Never Love This Way Again" in the five years since her number-one single, "Then Came You", featuring The Spinners.
"Déjà Vu" went to number fifteen on the Billboard Hot 100, number twenty-five on the soul chart, and number one on the Adult Contemporary chart in early 1980. Warwick won the Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for "Déjà Vu", also winning for Best Pop Female Vocal Performance for "I'll Never Love This Way Again". Warwick became the first artist ever to win the R&B and pop categories on the same night.
Similar ArtistsBurt Bacharach
Aretha Franklin
The 5th Dimension
Jackie DeShannon
Carole King


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There is a reason why so many parties gravitate to the kitchen. It is the warmest room in the home, figuratively speaking; the place where everyone feels relaxed, welcomed and chatty.
As warm and welcoming as they may be, kitchens are also often the first room to really date the house. Cabinets, counter-tops, fixtures and appliances have traditionally been among those major household expenditures that can become visibly dated because of changing styles. Avocado appliances or vinyl veneer cupboards can define a home's age almost to the month. In renovating a dated kitchen there are two key questions you should ask before you begin anything:
1. Am I renovating this kitchen for my pleasure, to fulfill all my senses through cooking and socializing for many years to come?; or
2. Am I renovating this kitchen with an eye to the resale value of my home?
In either case, you will want to utilize the best quality products you can afford, creating the finest kitchen with reliable appliances, thoughtfully laid-out cabinets, and flooring, window-coverings and counter-tops that are both efficient and pleasing to the eye.
Beyond these basics, there are a few things to consider.
If your renovation is really about making your kitchen a destination and a retreat for yourself, your family and friends for many years to come, you can let your imagination run free. Without worrying about what potential future buyers might think, you can use favorite colors, textures and styles.
A dazzling back-splash can set the tone for the entire room and make a statement about the kind of family you are. An unorthodox lighting scheme can make a stunning impression. Quartz counter-tops that pop to the eye can be a joy in your life as long as you live in the house.
The greatest advantage of doing this renovation "just for you" is making your kitchen as practical as possible based on the reasons you use it most. If your vision for your kitchen is really to host a social scene, raise the counters to make room for high stools around the perimeter of the room. Turn the kitchen into a stage for your culinary performances.
If you routinely cook for a crowd, incorporating special appliances like a stand-alone steamer or indoor grill can be worth the effort. If a member of your family has a bum knee, the entire configuration of the cabinets can be aligned to put the items at appropriate heights, leaving the lower sections for rarely used larger items or for drawers that do not require getting on hands and knees. When you are renovating your kitchen for your own needs, anything goes.
Think about your needs – your real needs, not the needs of the ideal Mario Batali you of your gourmet daydreams – and discuss it with your designer.
Your plans should be a little different if you expect to be selling your home during the lifespan of your kitchen. The basics should remain the same. You still want to use quality products and the best appliances and fixtures you can afford (they'll pay for themselves in the resale). The difference is that you want to keep an eye toward what an "average" homeowner would want. Go with less splashy colors, textures and styles in selecting the components that are expensive to replace, like counter-tops and cabinets. If you want to make a statement, do it with window-coverings or lighting, which can be easily replaced if the next owner doesn't share your exquisite style sense.
Asking the question "Who is this renovation for?" is the necessary first step in the process of re-doing your kitchen. There are a great many questions that follow in this exciting project, but this is the initial step to determine the big-picture plan.
For answers to all the questions you have, RodRozen Designs, an interior design company based in Vancouver, BC is here with advice on every aspect of your interior design, renovations, construction and custom services including window-coverings, draperies, furniture, mill-work and bedding.


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I have yet to read either of the dueling books, How Jesus Became God: The Exaltation of a Jewish Preacher from Galilee and How God Became Jesus: The Real Origins of Belief in Jesus' Divine Nature—A Response to Bart Ehrman. When I do, I will discuss them in terms of their contents and arguments.
But the latter probably wins clean hands down for the cleverer marketing strategy. I just got this in the mail together with a copy of the book:
Hand sanitizer, together with a piece of publicity material with the title "Wash your hands of bad history." Very clever – and useful!
For those interested in this topic, Ben Witherington also posted today about Jewish monotheism and early Christology. I am not persuaded by his line of reasoning. It doesn't seem to me that simply saying "I am adding this person within rather than alongside the one God" would have allowed early Christians to completely sidestep issues of monotheism. Indeed, tampering with the nature of the one God would arguably have been more controversial than adding an agent alongside that God.


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PURPLE UP and High Five an Awesome Military Kid!
It's the Month of the Military Child and we've been celebrating and honoring these special kids and the sacrifices they make while their parent serves in the military. Over on our Facebook page, we're telling the real story about #BratLife, and what military life is really like for kids.
Here are some startling realities:
One in four military kids struggle with depression.
63% of military child abuse cases are neglect cases.
Health insurance for military kids is modeled after the needs of elderly patients. (What?!)
Not only that, military kids have a tough time being seen at Military Treatment Facilities because their doctors are often too busy, and appointments are few and far between.
At NMFA, we rally around these amazing kids and love to celebrate the awesome things about them. Especially today. It's PURPLE UP Day! Around the world, people are joining together to sport their best purple outfits in celebration of our nation's resilient, remarkable, and rad military kids.
What's so cool about military kids?
On average, most will move every 3 years…good thing they make friends easily!
They've mastered the art of flexibility and adapt to change better than most.
They know happiness doesn't have one address.
Military kids will say goodbye to more significant people in their lives by age 18 than most people do in a lifetime.
Military kids really do serve, too.
But somehow, these little heroes turn out to be some of the most incredible people, some even growing up to appreciate their experience as a military kid, others go on to follow their parent's footsteps and join the military.
Today, we ask you to join us and wear purple – the color that represents of all the military branches – and honor the awesome military kids we love! If you're wearing purple today, snap a selfie and tag NMFA in it!
What's your favorite thing about military kids? Tell us in the comments!
Posted by Shannon Prentice, Content Development Manager


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Nothing kicks off summer better than baseball, hotdogs and popcorn at the ball park. Looking forward to a River Dogs game June 23rd in Charleston, South Carolina! If your close or willing to drive we will have a group going with great Mom 2 Mom discussions and watching baseball with our families.
Hope to see some of you there or meet some new Moms to welcome to the Hemophilia family!
Hope to see you then!
Monday, May 23, 2011
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Masterful. I love the butterfly photo. (and others)
I shut my eyes in order to see…
The poet, the painter, or the photographer who is locked into only the visual phenomena
may miss the heart of what was actually being experienced…
Internationalization closes
many doors…
Do not go where the path may lead,
go instead where there is no path and leave a trail
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Well-known and respected names in the Houston building industry offer an impressive selection of new designs in Tavola, where six furnished model homes are open daily. Lennar, M/I Homes, Perry Homes and Lakewood Homes are building in Tavola on homesites from 40 feet to 65 feet, along with the amenities you and your family have come to expect from Friendswood Development Company.
Come take a tour today! Get driving directions now.


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The Glasses Fiasco: Part 1
Around three weeks ago, I went and had my eyes checked. I am telling you this because it is a big deal. I hadn't had my eyes checked in SIX YEARS. Therefore I have been wearing the same glasses for six years and they are pretty much done. They are rough looking, and barely fit my head anymore.
So here is the exciting part!! I bought TWO new pairs of glasses. The decision to buy a pair of glasses is much bigger than you think, for those of you who are not cursed with four eyes. So I asked the glasses guy to help me choose the BEST pair of glasses for me. My big gay glasses guy. I knew I was in good hands.
I told him to not be afraid to rip my choices apart. This is what I NEEDED. An advocate for me to look my best. I mean, usually glasses are the first thing that people see...I need to coordinate my outfits around those babies! It was a quick process. I explained to him what I was looking for, he found me a plethora of different pairs to try, and pretty much 'yes' or 'no'-ed me until just the right two pairs were chosen. And he wasn't afraid to tell me when certain ones looked ugly. I love him.
After making the choice and paying for them, the next part was having to wait. And I HATE waiting. Once I have paid for something it needs to be in my hands RIGHT NOW. So when I received a phone call this past Friday letting me know that they were being shipped out via overnight courier right at that moment, I got super excited.
So this is what I did:
I waited until Saturday morning (knowing full well that nothing is delivered on Saturdays) and called the glasses store to see if they got them in yet. Only I LIED and said they were sent out on Thursday. WHY DO I DO THIS? In hopes that if I lie hard enough it will become a reality? To try and trick the glasses people? NO! They have no control over when things are delivered! So as you can most likely guess, no dice. They told me to check back on Monday.
I did. No dice.
It is now Tuesday and they JUST called me to let me know they are in (it's 4PM).
P.S- Why do I get so offended when people try on my glasses and say "Woah! I can't see through these AT ALL! These are crazy blurry!".
a) they aren't YOUR glasses ASSHOLE, therefore not your prescription. Why would you be able to see out of them?


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Controls and displays – the key interface to the driver
A search function that is as intuitive as that on a smartphone. Voice command that will understand everyday terms. A virtual tachometer needle with an absolutely smooth motion because it is recalculated 60 times per second – Audi breaks new ground in the design of controls and displays in its cars. The most recent highlights include the new MMI interface concept, the Audi virtual cockpit and a voice command which will obey natural language.
Controls and displays in the new Audi Q7
The new Audi Q7*, to be marketed from 2015, will set new benchmarks in terms of its interface concept, infotainment, Audi connect and in its driver assistance systems. The car will come with the new generation of the Audi MMI with a large central display and the newly developed MMI all-in-touch control unit featuring a large touchpad, a natural-speech voice command and the Audi virtual cockpit. Other innovations include the Audi smart phone interface and the Audi tablet for rear-seat passengers.
Playfully easy: the new MMI operating concept
The new generation of the Audi MMI interface makes using the numerous functions of the Audi Q7 especially easy. Operation follows a flat hierarchy geared to the driver's needs MMI displays appear on the central monitor, which rises up from the instrument panel when the system is started and also enables the passengers to use the Audi MMI system in the familiar way.
The innovative MMI search with intelligent suggestions makes it easy to find specific song titles and to input telephone contacts or navigation destinations. This significantly reduces the number of steps in operation. Writing just a few letters on the touchpad will cause the system to display initial results taking into account the car's position. When searching for a restaurant, for instance, the driver only need enter its name and the first letters of the city, and a list of hits throughout Europe appears together with the addresses. Audi once again sets a benchmark here.
Nearly all entries can be completed in just a few steps. Two supplemental menus offer up intelligently linked functions and options. One of them allows the driver to change the frequency band in radio mode or to call up traffic information in map mode. The driver can also use context-sensitive options and settings to navigate to an entered destination he or she entered, display parking places nearby or save the destination to a list of favorites.
Haptic feedback: MMI all-in-touch
In terms of operating, the newly developed MMI all-in-touch control unit with a full touch surface stands out. Each input is followed by an acoustic and a haptic confirmation – a click that is also felt on the finger. The driver can enter characters on the large touchpad or perform multi-finger gestures to zoom on the map, for example. The main functions can be accessed using the high-quality rotary pushbutton and two rocker switches. The driver can also assign personal favorites, such as navigation destinations, telephone numbers or radio stations, to eight freely programmable buttons.
"Where can I fill up?": new natural-speech operation
Another highlight in the new Q7 is the voice control system. It has become much simpler. Drivers no longer need to conform to predefined commands. The system will understand phrases from everyday speech, meaning that hundreds of command variations are possible for each function. In the telephone menu, for example, the driver can call up a contact simply with the words "I want to make a call to John Smith" or "Connect me with John Smith".
In navigation, simple commands will help such as "Where can I get gas?" or "Where is the nearest Italian restaurant?". Natural-speech control such as "Listen to iPod" is also integrated into radio and media menu entries. This allows comfortable operation of the system thanks to end-to-end voice operation.
To provide a perspective, Audi is also showing online-based natural-speech voice operation, which incorporates the onboard database, but also Audi connect services. This will allow a customer, for instance, to easily find out about the weather at his destination or to locate a nearby gas station with bargain prices.
The Audi virtual cockpit
In the Audi Q7, the optional MMI Navigation plus can be ordered with the Audi virtual cockpit: a 12.3-inch TFT screen with a resolution of 1,440x540 pixels displaying ultracrisp and detail-rich graphics. The driver can switch between a classic view with high-quality rendered dial instruments and an infotainment view with an extended display area for lists and the map – all conveniently from the steering wheel. The display's high flexibility enables the driver to have navigation information, onboard computer data and, for instance, the media list within view in the central area.
The essential control logic of the Audi MMI is also reflected in the new multifunction steering wheels. The keys on the left spoke control the menus as via the MMI while those on the right spoke operate audio output and actuate the voice dialog system. What is new is express operation of the telephone and a practical skip function for quick changes of the radio station or the music title.
New Audi TT: Audi virtual cockpit with integrated MMI operation
Audi has fully made over the new TT*'s driver-oriented operational concept.
The TT now comes with two of the brand's innovations – the new MMI Multi Media interface and the Audi virtual cockpit digital instrument combination.
Audi virtual cockpit
In the new TT, the Audi virtual cockpit replaces analog instruments and the MMI monitor. On this 12.3-inch fully-digital combination instrument, the driver can switch between a classic view with dial instruments rendered in high quality and an infotainment view with an extended display area for lists and the navigational map.
In addition, the driver can choose certain values of the onboard computer for permanent display. The display's high flexibility enables the driver to have navigation information, onboard computer data and, for instance, the media list within view in the central area. In the TTS model, an additional display option assigns a central position to the tachometer, highlighting the car's affinity to motorsports.
MMI touch control unit
The Audi virtual cockpit MMI can be controlled from the steering wheel, but also from the center tunnel. In the TT, the MMI Navigation plus comes with the MMI touchwheel. This allows the driver to use the touchpad on the top of the rotary pushbutton to zoom into the navigational map and to enter characters. All key functions can be reached with just a few clicks, and the buttons on the side provide access to intelligently linked functions and options.
Free-text MMI search
A major highlight of the new system is MMI search, which is available for all basic menus and uses free text entry like an internet search engine. It generally answers queries after just a few letters, taking into account the car's current location. When searching for a restaurant, for instance, the driver only need enter the name and the first letters of the city and a list of hits throughout Europe appears together with the addresses. Searching for songs, albums and radio stations works similarly.
Intuitive: the new natural-language operation
Voice operation has also been intensively reworked and expanded. It will now understand many phrases from everyday speech. To call a contact, a command such as "I want to call John Smith" will be enough. A multifunction steering wheel is available as an additional control instrument. Other than touch gestures, the driver can use control keys and cylinders to perform the same steps as with the MMI terminal, all without taking his eyes off the road.
Equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice.


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Booty By Brit – Phase 2
This is where things really start to pick up! The hypertrophy phase is designed in what is called a 'DUP' fashion (daily undulating periodization) which has been show to be the most effective method for increasing muscle mass. It's where we combine a specific lower rep/higher rep strategy day to day and week to week to create an environment that will force your body to increase muscle fiber size. This method increases muscle protein synthesis, the driving force behind growth, for up to 36 hours post workout!! You've heard of certain types of cardio burning calories for days after you finish? This is the weight lifting equivalent.
You've always dreamed of it – that hard as rock, neck breaking behind that people don't shut up about – but you have tried over and over without success to get it. Good thing you found us because this program implements strategies that most fitness experts tend to ignore when they promise you godly glutes.
This program is no joke. We take your basic principles of muscle growth and apply them in a functional-specific manner to not only give you the best looking legs possible but legs that can perform just as well as they look.


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As the Supreme Court takes up two landmark cases for marriage equality this week, the impending decisions have sparked comparisons to another one of the Court's rulings on a so-called "social issue" — the Roe v. Wade decision, which legalized abortion rights exactly 40 years ago. Since a politically contentious battle over abortion rights has continued throughout the four decades after Roe, some pundits argue the Justices moved too quickly to grant legal rights to reproductive care, and a similar move toward marriage equality before the country is ready could incite the same kind of public backlash.
But the idea that Roe created the Religious Right — fueling public outrage over abortion that spurred religious conservatives to mobilize across the country — is actually a myth. As Sally Steenland, the Director of the Faith and Progressive Policy Initiative at the Center for American Progress, explains, religious conservatives actually began organizing to prevent the IRS from revoking tax-exempt status from a Christian college that was practicing racial discrimination. Evangelicals didn't welcome what they perceived as "government intrusion" into privately funded, faith-based institutions, and a movement began brewing. In fact, abortion wasn't added to the Religious Right's agenda until several years after Roe, when the movement's leaders began seeking to expand their issues.
And it wasn't necessarily political backlash from the Religious Right that began chipping away at reproductive rights in a post-Roe nation. In many cases, it was actually the Court itself. In 1980, Harris v. McRae upheld the Hyde Amendment, which bars low-income Americans in the Medicaid program from getting abortion services covered by public insurance. In 1992, Planned Parenthood v. Casey narrowed Roe's broad abortion protections to a less rigid standard — specifying that states may restrict abortion as long as they don't impose an "undue burden" on women seeking to terminate a pregnancy — which paved the way for today's state-level restrictions, spanning everything from mandatory waiting periods to forced ultrasounds.
Even aside from the unfounded myths about the history of the United States' abortion rights battles, there's even more evidence to suggest that Americans won't revolt if the Justices advance LGBT equality. Although abortion and gay marriage have been the two pillars of the Religious Right's "values issues" for the past two decades, serving as political wedge issues that go hand-in-hand, that's not necessarily the case anymore.
"As recently as 2004, we talked about abortion and same sex marriage in the same breath," Daniel Cox, the Public Religion Research Institute's research director, told the Washington Post. "They were the values issues. Now, it doesn't make sense to lump them together anymore. We've seen a decoupling." Cox explained that's partly because of the increased visibility of LGBT people, and the personal connections with gay and lesbian people that are leading growing numbers of Americans to support pro-equality policies — the kind of public awareness that doesn't necessarily exist for women who have abortions.
So, although support for legal abortion has remained fairly steady throughout the past three decades, without much of a discernible shift between different age groups, the support for gay marriage has recently soared to historic highs — particularly among young people. The nation didn't actually erupt into a political firestorm directly as a result of the Court's decision on abortion rights, and there's no evidence to suggest that a ruling in favor of marriage equality will spark that response, either.