The Best Gift Ever

Christmas has come and gone again.  Another year of anguishing over what gifts to give is over.   Even decorating the house for the holidays seems like such a chore each year.  It's not that I don't appreciate the holiday, I only wish it were kept in the context for which was meant.   For that reason, I esteem Easter much more.  It has yet to become the nationalized unreligious hype that Christmas has become.  I appreciate the fact that Christmas is the time we celebrate our savior's birth, I just don't see the significance of the commercialization of it.  In fact, if Easter hadn't happened, we wouldn't even be celebrating His birth.

I think there are many who feel overwhelmed and depressed as I do, but are afraid to admit it.  So many people get excited about it, that to say anything to the contrary makes you a target for ridicule.  Names such as Scrooge get thrown about.   For those that relish in the holiday with its glitter and glamour and festivities, I say bully for you!  Go for it.   I just don't want to be judged by your standards.   

I'm sure that when and if I ever have grandchildren my tune may change.   Although I find it very difficult to lie to small children and make-believe there is a Santa Claus.   Even when my daughter was younger I found it hard to pretend such a farce when I really felt in my heart the best thing I could teach her or help her to believe in was the fact that Jesus came to this world to make a way for us to be saved.   I wanted her to know that above all else, she could count on Him to deliver her from whatever hardship or trial she may ever face in her life.   I was always worried that if she found out we had lied to her about Santa Claus, would she think we were lying about God?

So far, my twenty-year old daughter, seems to be quite rooted in her faith.  I don't think the farce of Santa Claus has caused permanent damage.  Maybe it was that all children her age were taught the same thing and they all realized about the same time that it was just a nice story.   I'm still not clear on what the story was supposed to teach us.  Whether it was to let us know that someone loves us all so much that they want to give us gifts, or that if we are really good, we'll deserve nice gifts.   I'd much rather cling to the discovery that God loves us no matter who we are, or what we do and gave us his only son that whosoever believes in Him will have everlasting life.   By far, that is the greatest gift I've ever received and that is exactly what I want my children and grandchildren to have also.

So, whether you think I'm the Grinch, or Scrooge, I can't help it.   I make no apologies for not trying to impress anyone with my decorating, party-giving or gift-giving skills.   I offer only the truth; that Jesus came into this world to become like one of us and to make the ultimate sacrifice so that we may live with Him forever.  And that is the best gift ever.

Wintertime Lazies

Well, the wintertime lazies are catching up with all of us here on the farm. Even Honey, our golden retriever, has gotten lax. I know that I'm getting older and slowing down, but it really hits home when even your dog starts resembling your lifestyle.

When the days get shorter, it's harder to get outside for any exercise after work. I've promised myself for months that I would definitely take up a gym membership when Fall came. It's going on December and I still find excuses to drive on by each day. "I'm going to do it this week!"I say, but each day a new excuse pops up.

You really know your getting lazy when taking the dog for a walk consists of firing up the quadrunner. "After all," I reason, "she's got more energy to burn than I. Why should I hold up the process with my slow plodding?" So, off we go. She runs ahead setting the pace. Most of the time she stays far ahead. Only on the return trip does she let me catch up. Sometimes I tease her by giving the quad the gas and speeding up. She lets me know she doesn't like it by turning to bark at the tires as if to tell me, "Slow down!" Lately, though, she's been barking at the tires from the outset, which lets me know she's out of shape, too!

I've just noticed it this Fall that she's slowing down, probably because of taking on our bad habits. Sometimes missing a walk all together, we spend the evenings laying around watching TV and eating snacks. She has caught the "snackitis" problem because of us. We keep her dog biscuits on top of the refrigerator. Now, whenever anyone even walks by the fridge, she takes a stance blocking the way back and looking eagerly toward the top of the fridge at the tasty treats. Of course, feeling guilty because I've gotten up to get a snack, I feel obligated to at least give her a small one, too. Like everyone else in the house, she's beginning to show the signs of this indulgent lifestyle. Snacking and lack of exercising has given us all extra pounds. It's sad when your dog reflects your own shortcomings.

So, with a new "dogged" determination, I promise myself once again that I will do something! I will call the gym. I will take the dog for a walk. I will not make continual trips to the fridge at night, and
I'll do it...tomorrow!

What's Missing?

Lately, I've been feeling like I want more from my relationship with God. I keep thinking I need to be closer. I wonder if I'm doing everything I should. Should I pray more? Maybe if I spent time actually kneeling by my bed. Don't know if my knees could stand more than a couple of minutes, but maybe I need to force myself to do it. Maybe I should read the bible more. What's missing? Why don't I feel that same closeness I did when I first gave my heart to the Lord? I remember feeling euphoric. I want that same fascination, and wonderment to encapsulate me again.

Some people call it revival. They hold special meetings, have special guest speakers, special music. Maybe that helps, I don't know. I'm not sure it's something you can look for, or force to happen. I am wondering if there's anything that would ever help me to feel that way again. After all, it's been almost 20+ years since I gave my life to the Lord. Can it be like we just met all the time?

My husband and I are going to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary next month. We love each other very much, but I can't say it's the same type of love we had in the beginning. Falling in love is such a high. To find someone who says they love you and wouldn't mind spending the rest of their lives with you, well, it feels very magical. But we both know that it isn't realistic to expect to have that thrilling feeling like we just met after 25 years together. What we have is comfortable, for lack of a better word.

Is a relationship with God any different than being married? Can we expect to produce a magical high somehow? Is it wrong to be "comfortable" with God? Do I take both my husband and God for granted? Sure I do. I could spend more time being appreciative. Maybe that's the key. Perhaps what is missing is not what I can get from a relationship, but what I can give.

Today, I will remember to say thank you for the wonderful things in my life; to be grateful for all that God has given me. And I suppose it wouldn't hurt to let my husband know I appreciate him, too!

Amazing Story of Faith

When I saw this woman today on CNN's Faces of Faith, I was blown away. Her story brought tears, chills and a renewed awe of our God's power to my heart. Her name is Immaculée Ilibagiza. Her book Left to Tell is about the struggle to stay alive during a holocaust in her native country of Rwanda and her discovery of a God that answers prayer. She hid with 7 other women in a small bathroom of the local pastor's house for 91 days. Please see more about her and her book here. There's an interview on YouTube you can check out here. It's a two-part interview, so check for the 2/2 to see the whole story.

It's a Reality ... A New School!

I had the chance to tour the newly built Logan High School last Thursday. Mr. Stirn, our superintendent, showed us through the not-quite-done building pointing out special features. I have to say I was quite impressed. While I was standing there gawking, I thought about how I never thought I'd ever see the day we'd have a brand new high school for Logan. When I was only in grade school, my father had been on a committee to try to round up interest for a new high school. That was in the 60's. Others had tried over the years. Every time, the people said, "No." I felt they were saying they didn't care about me, about my future.

Our old high school was originally built in 1910. Several additions were built on over the years. Although the district has done its best to maintain the building, time has definitely taken its toll and won. The auditorium has been closed for over a year. When the voters passed a vote to build new schools, it was a resounding, "YES," for our kids and their future.

Here are a couple of photos from my visit.


Front entrance. Entry tile floor design.



Nice wide, bright hallways. A greenhouse.



Finishing touches on gym floor. Main gate and ticket booth.

God the Gambler?

I was thinking this morning that God would be a great poker player. He may hint at what he's holding, but he doesn't play his cards before it's time. When God has something in store for you, it never comes early, it never comes too late, it's right on time.

Could God be considered a gambler? Why does he leave it to people to spread his word and to show others the gospel? Why would he chose to use such irresponsible, selfish, people? I cannot say that I would depend on anyone else but myself to get something important done. So, why take the risk of putting the future of his kingdom into the hands of the few who say they serve him; always a disappointment, always missing the mark, always in debt to sin? How can we be the vessels he's chosen? It would certainly be a high-stakes gamble.

But God isn't relying on luck. No where in the Bible does it say, "...and just by chance the Red Sea parted at just the right time allowing the Israelites to escape from Pharaoh." There is always a plan for our escape. Through the definite trail to the cross, Jesus made a way for our ultimate escape from the second death. We all leave this earth and must stand before the Father and give an account of our life. The second death is facing the judgment without the covering of the blood of Jesus Christ. Without that, we face the second death, the lake of fire. God had a plan because he knew we were unable to do it ourselves. And God makes a way through us to show others his mercy. Somehow, he just does.

So, who's really the gambler here? Is it God, or is it us? We are faced with a decision here on earth that will determine our eternity. Are you ready to gamble your eternity away by ignoring the fact that there may be more to this life?

Resurrection Lilies

Thanks to my good friend, Pam, she tells me that those freaky flowers in my front yard are called Resurrection Lilies, because they sprout foliage in the Spring, die back, then shoot up a flower spike in August. Makes since to me and seems to tie in with this week's theme of my life.

Sometimes, God is like that. He finds a way to make everything tie together. It's beyond coincidence. I'm glad He is pointing to the fact that there is a resurrection after the dying to self part. I die daily is the motto. Letting go and letting God take control so that He can make beautiful things of my life is the main goal.

The Luckiest People

I think Barbara Streisand sang it best in Funny Girl. People who need people are the luckiest people in the world. Being a Christian is all about people. Years ago after reading the book What Color Is Your Parachute, I determined that I am not a people person. I am a data-type person. I shuffle papers. That's my strength and where I'm comfortable. That's probably why I'm a secretary. I do have to deal with people every day. I hope I am not too awkward at it, but after the day is through, I retreat to my shell, my home, and become the hermit crab I was born to be.

It doesn't seem fair to me that there are people in the world who seem to love to be around people 24/7. I live with two such strange creatures; my daughter and my husband. They LOVE people. If they aren't around people, they are on the phone to people. It's like they can't stand to be alone. And now, God is trying to push me out of my comfort zone to be....one of them?

All week long, I've walked by the wall of my bedroom and glanced at the ceramic cross with a nail Christmas ornament hanging from it. The words, "I die daily, " keep spouting into my mind. Well, yes, as a Christian we have to die daily to our wants and desires to give way to what God wants, and didn't Christ make the ultimate sacrifice when He died for our sins so that we may have life and have it more abundantly?

Why me? Why does it always seem like I'm the one who has to do all the sacrificing around here and do it stark cold sober? It's just not fair. It's not fair that I was not "born" a people person and now I'm being asked to grow that way. It's like asking someone to grow a second head. It's just not natural.

It was very apparent to me this week when a situation came up that was going to become my ultimate test. I am going to have to share my privacy, my space, my shell of protection from the world with "outsiders." People! People who are not family or my friends. "But it's the Christian thing to do, " my husband retorted, "They have no where else to go." I've always professed to love Christ with my whole heart, but this? No, this is a matter of self-preservation, I protest to myself. Don't throw the Christian card up in my face!

I wrestled with my demons, as they say, that night. I went for a long walk. I knew I was in no state of mind to be around anyone. I was so offended and hurt that anyone would ask me to do this; give up my sanctuary. I panicked. Feelings of betrayal and entrapment enclosed on me. I was ready to leave my marriage and my faith. I couldn't even pray. I told God to just let me go. It's not worth it. I won't do it. It's too much. I've cut off friendships for less.

I continued my fit that night as I got ready for bed. As I was blow drying my hair, all I could think as I sobbed to myself was, "I can't do it!" to which a surprising thought countered, "Yes, you can." (Now, knowing from experience that any voice of reason is not my own, I knew it was God's spirit speaking to me.) "No! I can't!" Again, the thought back was, "Yes, you can!" And still not wanting to listen I said, "I can't do this!" Again the counter thought was, "Yes, you can....you have my spirit living in you." I began to understand that God was NOT going to let go of me and He was NOT going to take "No" for an answer. I continued to feel sorry for myself as I got ready for bed. I still have another day of work this week; better try to get some sleep.

The next morning, I awoke and felt....strangely calm. I was sane again. I didn't even have feelings of spite against my husband, who I had previously thought I would stake my revenge of silence upon. It was all gone! No anger. No resentment. No panic or fear. A peace that surpasses all understanding was mine. How could this be? Could it truly be that the Spirit of God had done a work in me over night? I don't know how long this will last. I have yet to face the actual situation to which I was so opposed, but I'm not dreading it now. I know that God has changed something inside of me. Could it be....I may becoming one of them?

People who need people, truly are the luckiest people. God uses and blesses us through people. And if He can change my heart to be open to these people, them I am lucky and blessed, too.

Freak Flowers

So, I keep forgetting that we have these freak flowers that pop up every August on the bank in front of our house. If they ever had foliage, it wasn't there before they sprouted the flower spikes. August Lilies I guess they are called, or Surprise Lilies....cause that's when they spring up and surprise you!

Summer Memories '08

Speaking of making memories, my daughter decided that we needed to take a family vacation this summer and go camping up at Lake Erie like we used to every year. We jumped at the notion. Now that our "little one" is going into her junior year of college, it is rare that we get these opportunities. What a great time we had. This is one of our usual stops, Marblehead Lighthouse near Lakeside, Ohio. We actually got to go to the top one year and look out. We knew a couple of different people who used to live at the keepers house located to the right. It's now turned into a museum. Yes, they're trying to hold up the lighthouse!

We had fun taking the ferry over from Port Clinton to South Bass Island, too. Here's the view from Perry's Monument overlooking Put-in-Bay.

And of course, the best way to see the island is by golf cart!

And to top off the trip, a stop at the Ohio State Fair. Of course, we had to stop and see Smokey Bear. I actually had the privilege to help work with Smokey one year. My husband worked it a couple. Smokey talks to the kids and his helpers ask them their names and try to phonetically spell them out on a card so that they can see them from the building behind him. (Oops. That's top secret.)

Things We Remember

What are the things we will remember is 10, 15, 20 years from now? What will leave such lasting impressions on our souls that we will remember it through the haze and confusion of our senility? As I sit and visit with my mom's cousin, who is 82 yrs. old, there are things that she can't seem to forget or let go of. Hurts seem to leave the most lasting impression. When I hear her repeat the same things over and over, I worry that maybe I will be like that someday. What will I remember? Disappointments, hurts, or regrets -- it is so easy to harbor these feelings, nursing them over the years. Will they be all that I remember when I'm older?

I have to admit I am critical and negative by nature. I think that's why I started this blog; to make myself stop and think. Instead of wasting time going through life letting my impulses lead me wherever they will. I want to examine my thoughts and motives then redirect my life towards more positive results.

In the Bible it states:

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoeverthings are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoeverthings are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

I think there is so much in this scripture that can help us in so many ways. It can change our habit of spreading gossip or thinking ill of others. We can focus on things that are good in the world instead of everything negative. This isn't to say that we never deal with real issues in life, but to dwell on the negative all the time only leads to depression and despair. We need balance. For some of us it is harder to think even one positive thought a day. I believe it is only by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that I am able to come across anything positive. Guess that's why I'm so compelled to share it!

I remember a parable of two wolves I once read that seems to befit this theme. It is an old Cherokee Indian parable. An old Cherokee was teaching his young grandson one of life’s most important lessons. He told the young boy the following parable:

“There is a fight going on inside each of us. It is a terrible fight between two wolves,” he said.

“One wolf is evil. He is anger, rage, envy, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, resentment, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego."

"The second wolf is good. He is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, empathy, truth, compassion, and faith.”

The grandson thought about this for a moment. Then he asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win this fight?”

The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”

If I have any hurts, if I have any disappointments, if I harbor any ill feelings against anyone else, I pray that I will have the courage to go to God and ask that He will help me with all of these. I pray that I will make peace with whoever or whatever and learn to forgive and let go. I pray that I will never harbor resentment, anger or hurt of any kind. I pray that as I get older if I remember one thing let it be how much God loves me and forgives me. And also let me remember the good things that happened in my life. I want to dwell on them now and burn them into my memory bank so I'll never forget them.

My goal this week is to be thankful for every good thing in my life and not let it go by without recognizing them. This week I will chose to feed the good memories.

Learning to Listen

Today I went to visit a relative who now lives at the "memory" unit at a local retirement home. Although she at times has problems remembering who I am, she seemed to know and remember that it has been quite a while since I'd been there last. I had hoped her memory would skip that detail. All the same, she was delighted to see me. She's my mom's cousin, a widow without any children. It has long been on my heart that I need to start seeing her. In the Bible it says:

James 1:27 Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.

I did go see her earlier this year. Even though my intentions were good, I just didn't hold to a return visit. (I've once heard that the road to hell is paved with good intentions.) I guess I had some moments during the previous visits that made me uncomfortable, like when she thought I was my mother and I was married to my father. Awkward. She can be so coherent and then she'll say something that makes you realize she just slipped.

I managed to "forget" to see her over that past few months. There's only one problem. Every time I spent time in prayer with God, and checked in with Him as to what He wanted me to do....well, I saw her face. I once heard a wise old preacher say, "The next thing God wants you to do is the last thing He told you to do." Ouch.

I've spent several months wondering why I haven't had as close of a relationship with God, but now I see that it wasn't God that stopped communicating. I had selective hearing, kind of like my dog when we're out in the woods. She can hear me fine when it pertains to doggie treats or something she wants, but totally deaf if she doesn't like the request.

I was apprehensive about today's visit, but left feeling so rewarded and touched by her stories. Whether or not they are exactly true didn't matter. I wouldn't know the difference any way. The only thing that mattered was that for an hour, she was able to relive a happy time in her life and I was enriched because of it. Today I learned to listen.

Butterfly

Saw this butterfly on my walk to the pond yesterday. I was so excited about getting a picture that I didn't realize till the third or fourth picture that it was missing a chunk out of its left wing. Didn't seem to bother it, though. When I got closer, it flew away without any trouble. Makes ya think how something that looks so damaged can still function as if it were perfectly whole.

Bouquet of Broccoli

My husband, Mike, was so proud of this broccoli, that he wanted me to take his picture with it. Isn't it pretty? (The broccoli, not Mike!) Looks like a bouquet; a broccoli bouquet! It's been a great year for cool weather veggies. So, no wonder the broccoli and cauliflower are doing so well. He's thinking there's another head up in the garden that's going to be even bigger! And, boy, did it taste good, too! I hope the tomatoes do as well! Yum!

Blackbird

I don't know what it is with me and music, but I've notice for years that there are times when a song pops into my head and I cannot figure out why. It isn't that I've just heard it on the radio. It isn't that it was one of my favorite songs. But sometimes, they speak to my very soul with such perfect timing that I can only think that it is partly something beyond natural comprehension.

I've had one such song come to my consciousness at times of desperation; Blackbird by the Beatles. I know that supposedly it was written in reference to the racial problems in the 60's, but it brings me comfort and inspiration in a dissimilar way.

Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these broken wings and learn to fly

All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to arise

Black bird singing in the dead of night
Take these sunken eyes and learn to see
all your life
you were only waiting for this moment to be free

Blackbird fly, Blackbird fly
Into the light of the dark black night.

Blackbird fly, Blackbird fly
Into the light of the dark black night.

Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these broken wings and learn to fly
All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to arise,oh
You were only waiting for this moment to arise, oh
You were only waiting for this moment to arise

I've found myself using this as almost a prayer. For me, it represents hope in the midst of darkness. My broken soul needs help to learn to fly and to see when there is no light to guide me. I am the blackbird, a desperate, ugly thing, not an eagle. But I look toward heaven and pray that He will breathe life into this weary soul, lifting me above the circumstances, my heaviness of heart, making my broken wings able to soar. By His power, at that moment, I am set free.

Empty-nesting, again

In a week, my daughter will be moving into her first apartment.   Although she has been in college for two years now, she has always lived in a dorm; a requirement of all freshmen and sophomores.   I don't know why, but I get this feeling that this is really it.   I have no recourse but to let her grow up now.   Furniture will be hauled, rental agreements signed, utilities put in her and her roommates' names.   And even though my husband says, "She'll be back," I'm not so sure.    This is it; the severing of the apron strings.

The garage is filled with furnishings we've collected from friends and family.   We have enough stuff by now to fill an entire house, not just an apartment.  It's been fun to help gather up items and know it will help her get settled in quite nicely right off the  bat.  The business of it all has kept my mind from dwelling on the fact of the matter; she's moving out!

I know there is nothing I can do to stop the process, nor would I want to.   I just wish it wouldn't make me feel like a part of my life is leaving with her.   

So, next week I will be brave, load up the truck and help move all her stuff.   The week after that, I will get a life!

Those Birds!

The birds! Oh, those noisy birds! Why is it that every spring I have to be awakened before daybreak by chirping birds?

I once did an article on this a couple of years ago about being off for the summer with my husband in "retirement land", and how nice it sounded to be able to sleep in everyday. But, of course, the birds quickly changed those plans.

I know, I know. How can anyone complain about the beautiful singing of birds? And after the long winter we had, I should be ecstatic that they are here heralding the return of spring. Okay, okay. Now I am starting to feel bad. I can't help but wonder, though, how in the world someone or something can wake up and just start singing right away. I have to have a cup of coffee and at least 10 minutes to think about what I have to do next. Even our dog, Honey, is no early-morning riser. She likes to sleep in, too. She won't get up one second before her master does. Then, and only then, will she reluctantly saunter out of the bedroom for her morning stretch and a morning biscuit. (No coffee for her.)

So, why do the birds feel the necessity to sing when they rise seemingly before they even leave the nest? I noticed it again about dusk. They seem to sing as they returned to their nests for the evening. It made me think of David in Psalm 92:1-2:

1) It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High;

2) To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night.

I've come to the conclusion that the birds automatically awake each day and sing in praise to their creator for the fresh new day He has given them. And again at evening, they thank Him for all He has provided for them during that day. Well, who am I to challenge that philosophy? I think it would be better for me if I adopted it.

So, now, even though the clock reads 5:50 a.m., I quietly whisper my praise to God and thank Him for all he has done for us. Then, I put my ear plugs in, put a pillow over my head and roll over for a few more winks of sleep. Well, I'm only human! So, sing on bird friends! I'll catch up with you later!

zzzzzzzzzzzzz

"School's out for summer....

"School's out for summer.... " It's funny, but that old Alice Cooper song was written in a thank you card I received from one of the students in my building on the last day of school. I wouldn't think a fourth-grade girl would know that song, but apparently she did. I had to laugh, because she is normally this quiet, reserved, soft-spoken thing. But what kid hasn't heard that song and not instantly want to sing it the last day of school? It made my day.

For many, it was the last day at elementary. Their next step is middle school. I some how lost track of that fact until some of my fifth-graders came in on the last day to say, "Good-bye." Of the three girls that came into my office, two were smiling with anticipation of summer and their step into growing up and going to the new school and all it has in store for them. But, for one girl, tears welled up in her eyes and she couldn't speak. She was realizing fully well that this was her last day of elementary school. She would be leaving the security of all that she had known and been comfortable with; the building, the teachers and staff. And it hit me, too. I may never get the chance to see her again, and I felt sad.

For over 12 years, I've worked at the same building. My little elementary school has gone through principal changes, grade-level changes, and name changes. I've had 6 principals in that time. We've gone from grades 2-5 to just 4th, 5th and preschool. Our name was West Elementary. We are now Central Intermediate - West Campus. We house just around 200 students at a time. Soon, after our new building is built, we will merge with Central Primary - East Campus and become just Central Elementary and will house around 500+ kids.

Even though there have been many changes, I've enjoyed the opportunity to work with the children that come and spend time with me in our little building. I'm the one who takes care of their boo-boo's, calls their mom when they are sick, and I even let them call home for forgotten homework when they come into the office looking all forlorn and teary-eyed. They become "my kids" for the brief time they are there. It's all in a day's work for me. It's my job. But during that process, I get to know them and become attached to their lives.

It's amazing how many of their names I can remember even years after they've moved on. I suppose it comes from writing their names a hundred times in a year for class lists, attendance, etc. So, I look for their names in the paper. I point them out at football games and band concerts. "There's a former West School student!" I say with pride as if it were my child. It always amazes me to see them all grown up and the accomplishments they've made, especially since I can remember them as they were in elementary school.

Some of the children have stories that could break your heart in two. Those are the ones that haunt me. I sometimes think of them and say a prayer for them, hoping that God can fix what no one else can seem to touch. I can say I've seen first-hand what God can do through prayer. It was God that helped the youngster that was slipping through the cracks. All of our top experts and most dedicated adults on the case were unable to help, but God caused a miracle. I cannot share the details because of confidentiality, but I know it was God that put him on my heart to pray for him. And it was God that caused the circumstances to change.

When I think of all the children that God trusts to our care, I wonder about all the missed opportunities to pray for them and and how it could effect their lives. I wonder about how important it is for us to show them kindness and love while we have a chance, and not take them for granted. I forget that it's not just a job that I have to tolerate from 8-4 pm. It's kind of a ministry. Even though I provide a service and I'm an employee of Logan-Hocking Schools, I'm first and foremost a delegate of God.

I thank God for the opportunity He has given me. I am thankful that He has mysteriously kept me from being sick from every imaginable virus and germ that comes into my office during the school year. I'm grateful that He makes me able to focus and stay on task even though I am interrupted a thousand times a day. I am amazed when people tell me "thank you" for just doing my job. I am delighted when I get any card from a student whether it's for my birthday, secretary's day or a just a thank you card. All in all, I can say that I feel blessed to be where I am. God must have put me there, because he has blessed me during the process.

And the best part of my job? Summer vacation! "School's out for summer!...."

Something's Coming

From the West Side Story Site

Could be!
Who knows?
There's something due any day;
I will know right away,
Soon as it shows.
It may come cannonballing down through the sky,
Gleam in its eye,
Bright as a rose!

Who knows?
It's only just out of reach,
Down the block, on a beach,
Under a tree.
I got a feeling there's a miracle due,
Gonna come true,
Coming to me!

Could it be? Yes, it could.
Something's coming, something good,
If I can wait!
Something's coming, I don't know what it is,
But it is
Gonna be great!

With a click, with a shock,
Phone'll jingle, door'll knock,
Open the latch!
Something's coming, don't know when, but it's soon;
Catch the moon,
One-handed catch!

Around the corner,
Or whistling down the river,
Come on, deliver
To me!
Will it be? Yes, it will.
Maybe just by holding still,
It'll be there!

Come on, something, come on in, don't be shy,
Meet a guy,
Pull up a chair!
The air is humming,
And something great is coming!
Who knows?
It's only just out of reach,
Down the block, on a beach,
Maybe tonight . . .

Call me silly, but I first fell in love with this song from a Todd Rundgren album of my brother's. Didn't even know it was a song from West Side Story. I just loved the hope filled anticipation in it. Still do.

I don't know what's in my future. I do know that God's in control, which is good. Kind of scary for a control-freak such as myself, but I am coming to the conclusion after 40+ years that I never really had control anyway. And if God is for me, who can be against me?

Feel free to hum along!

The Tempo Tantrums!

Yes, this a shameless posting about my daughter's a cappella group at O.U. Athens. Hope you enjoy. Check out their other videos from the recent A Cappella Invitational 2008 on YouTube.

Just Being Me

Yesterday's sermon by Pastor Mark titled What Does the Holy Spirit Do for Us?
spoke to me on so many levels. One of the most important things I took from it was his phrase, "we are human beings, not human doings."

I realized that I have that sentiment about myself; that I am not of value unless I have done something to show my worth. My job, for instance, is my pride. I work hard and hope that someone notices. But to place my value as a human being into the hands of other people is dangerous.

I recently interviewed for a new job that would be a career advancement, not only in pay, but in responsibility. Afterward, I had so many fears of inadequacy that I wondered why I was so upset by it. The real reason was that if they didn't consider me for the job, I would see it as a cut on me being judged as incapable to do the work.

If what I've written before is my truth...then for me to think this about myself is ridiculously self-centered and prideful. (Pride should be spelled prIde, because the "I" is put as most important.) If I take them picking someone else over me as a judgment of my capability, I am not: 1) trusting God to have control over my life 2) trusting that the people He placed in authority over me are really under His control, too 3) think more highly of myself than I ought.

So, I even if they do pick someone else, I must trust their judgment and God's. It doesn't mean that I am worthless. It doesn't mean that I do not have value as an employee. It doesn't mean I am less valuable as a human being. My job is a minute part of my life. God sees me as his child. He wants and KNOWS what's best for me. So many times I wondered why I didn't get something I really wanted in life. Through the years, I've seen that it wasn't my time, or the right place for me. I know this is true. I just seem to need reminded of it a lot lately.

I thank God for the job I have. I still try to do my best, to be conscientious and caring. I thank Him that I am healthy enough to go each day and that He gives me clarity of mind to make good decisions. But, my value is not in my job.

Thank you, Jesus, for showing me that you love me beyond human measure, mine or anyone else's. Thank you for showing me it's OK to just be me.

He's Gotta Hold of Me!

I love this image I found. The look on the child's face says it all. This is how I feel today, like a child holding onto their father's arms. After searching and chasing to find that all elusive peace, it feels like Jesus has me by both arms now, not just my hand. Just like a trusting small child, I look to Him and know that I'm going to be all right no matter what the future holds.

In my earlier blog entry I stated how upset I'd been by the recent turmoil over jobs in my district. Like children, we all want to know what's going to happen to us. Will we be all right? Worried and stressed over not knowing what to do, I spent hours trying to figure out a plan. Truth is, I have no control over what happens. I can plot and plan all I want, but really, who knows what the future holds? That's where my trust in Jesus comes in. He comforts me like a smal child.

I realized that where I am now is in no direct control that I've had. Every single detail of my life, including my job, was ordered and planned by God. I believe He has complete control. As the Bible says in Proverbs 16:9
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
I can make all the plans I want to, but ultimately, it's the Lord who determines where I will go.

This has been so freeing for me, because as I've seen in the past He has always taken care of me. It may not have been what I've planned, but always something good. Sometimes, even better than what I could have picked, because He knows me better than I know myself. He sees the whole situation, where I only see part. My view from down here is clouded. He has the "bird's eye view."

Matthew 6:26-27 states:

25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life^[b]?

Having a close, personal relationship with Christ has been the most rewarding thing in my life. Even one hour of thinking I am separated from Him is torture. I can do anything as long as I know He is with me all the time. My worrying only separates me from Him. Worrying is the opposite of trusting. Trusting brings peace.

I don't know where I will be heading. Even though I have high hopes for chances of advancement, it doesn't matter one way or the other, because nothing is worth feeling separated from Christ's will. I want to always be in His will for my life. I usually know it by the amount of peace I have, and by the doors He opens or closes. Disappointment may visit for a while, but bitterness can not take root as long as I remember that God has good things in store for me. It just may be later on down the road.

Whenever I am tempted to look to the left or to the right and get scared by seeing the scenery swirling past me, I start to get afraid. As long as I remember to look straight into his face, and I know he has me by both arms and I do not have to worry. He will not let me fall.

Psalm 37:24
...though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.

Guess you could say, He's really gotta hold of me!

We interrupt this rant.....

Found this "gem" on Pastor Mark's blog.

Another Gem...

from Pastor Glen VanderKloot's daily emailed inspirations:

Thought for the Day
"God will speak only when you stop.

"Only when I silence my heart can I seek God with any
hope of understanding what he is trying to reveal to me."

(Erik Reese)

Scripture
Psalm 37:7 NLT:
"Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act."

Prayer
Lord, help me to quiet my heart so that I can hear
and understand what you are saying to me. Amen

For information on how you can receive Pastor VanderKloot's daily emails, go here.

Either he, or God knew I needed that!!!!!

THANKS!

Chasing After Jesus

This week has been very stressful. There are situations at work that have me twisted in knots. Without going into specifics, there are decisions to be made about jobs. I am torn. There is a lot of unrest and anxiety in the entire district. There is a lot of talk; talk about prospects, talk about outcomes, and talk of dissension. By the end of this week, we'll see what it all culminates into.

It is hard to maintain any clarity right now. I have prayed, read scriptures, talked with other people...trying to come to any conclusion about a clear path. I cannot figure out why sometimes it's so easy to hear from God, and other times, there's just silence. I wonder if it is due to the lack of peace in my soul; if somehow my receptor or antennae has static interference.

I find myself awake everyday before dawn breaks; before the birds even awake. I lie and stare at the wall. When it is evident that there is no more rest, I get up and start the day. I study scriptures. I pray. I try my darnedest to reach out to God. I tell myself He's there. I tell myself I'm not alone. I tell myself he would never leave me.

With my heart already racing like a gerbil in a cage anyway, I decided I may as well head for the treadmill upstairs and just walk till I'm exhausted. Maybe if I wear myself out, I will be able to rest; to find peace.

My treadmill is not the latest in technology. It's not even motorized. It runs on a flywheel. So, it's a little like pushing a lawnmower...uphill. It gets the job done. I can break a sweat in less than 5 minutes on it. "Sweating is good," I thought. "Maybe I can sweat the toxins from stress out of my body." I was determined to push on!

I also like to listen to my favorite radio station while I "mow." We have been blessed to have a couple of really great Christian contemporary stations in our area. I usually listen to 92.7 FM out of Zanesville. Still my attempt to "stay my mind on things above." But even that didn't seem to satisfy the soul.

And then it hit me. I saw myself as the woman in the crowd, trying to push through; trying to catch up, but He keeps moving away. His back is towards me, and the people keep crowding in front of me. I can see myself, pushing through, chasing after Jesus. I am desperate, knowing it is only Him that can heal me; knowing it's my only hope, my only chance. I am reaching, fingers stretched out. If only I can touch his garment, I will be healed. I will have peace. Oh, why won't he slow down? How am I going to catch up? I'll never make it! Tears are streaming down my face at this time. I am consumed by my grief and want to curl up into a ball of despair, but I still keep grasping.

So many times in my life, I've felt Jesus was as near as a whisper. How could this situation make me feel so far away? So left behind? I know that the Bible states He will never leave us or abandon us. Yet, here I am, like a lost child, alone and confused. It is during times like this that I have to remind myself of what I've learned.

Fear is an all consuming emotion. Yet, it seems that there are times it cannot be avoided. I know that I must hang onto what the Bible declares as true. He will never leave or forsake me. Fear involves torment, and perfect love casts out fear. Jesus is that perfect love. I must hang onto only those thoughts. All things work together for those that love Him and are called according to His purpose. I pray that I will stay in His will and be used for His purpose. I must base my decisions on trust, not fear. Even if it means accepting things I don't want to accept. I know that I only think I have control over my life. But a man can only plan his path, and the Lord directs his steps. I must let go, and let God.

Someday, I will be able to look back on this and probably wonder why it was such a big deal. You know what they say, "Hind sight is 20/20." But for now, I'm just going to have to focus my sights on Jesus. I know I'm going to reach Him soon. Peace, clarity and that all too familiar whisper. He knows. He hears. He waits for me to catch up. I'm almost there.

Mushrooms!

Well, here it is, in all its glory; the first mushroom. I found it on April 22nd. Seems a little late, but conditions had to be just right. Enough rain, enough heat at night to make them germinate. We've only found a few more. Hardly enough to fill a skillet.

Morels are hollow in the middle. Once picked, you cut them in half, rinse them and put them in the fridge in a bowl of salt water to kill any bugs. Once you've collected enough for a batch, rinse them and lay them out on paper towels to dry. Then, dredge them in flour seasoned with some salt and pepper. I like to fry them in a combination of butter-flavored Crisco and margarine. Most people use straight butter or margarine, but it can't handle the high heat. I cook them till they are a golden brown. Drain on paper toweling and serve either on bread or straight off the plate. Either way, they're delicious!

"You're Trying Too Hard"

About 23 years ago, I made a serious commitment to be a fully dedicated Christian. I wanted to do my best to live up to all that a Christian should be. I tried so hard, but every day I failed to live up to the perfect picture I had drawn in my mind. I felt so angry each time I messed up.

It was during one of my fits of self disgust that I dove into cleaning the house. Anger is a great motivator to clean...all that energy. I also thinks it's a way to reclaim territory or assert some control over life when other things seem out of control. Some people drink; I cleaned.

During my burst of restoring order, I was picking up my shoes and shoving them into my closet. The only problem was that one of the shoes kept falling back out. I would grab it up and jam it back in. It would fall out again. I'd repeat the process, only I was in such a hurry, I would just pick it up and almost throw it at the closet each time missing the rack. I was almost irrational and definitely not thinking clearly, if at all.

Then it happened. A calm voice I could only hear in my head said, "You're trying too hard." Too calm, too rational to be my own thoughts, I wondered, "What? Where'd that come from?" I had heard the Christian lady at work talk about how God talked to her. Was this what it was like? It had to be, because it was not me. And it struck me somehow that the voice was not just talking about the shoe, but my whole approach to "being Christian." I was in such a hurry to be perfect, I was trying to "shove" myself into this perfect image I had of what a Christian should be. It just didn't seem right that I could become a Christian in an instant by accepting Jesus into my heart, but I couldn't change my actions at the same speed. My spirit was saved, but my soul, that selfish, self-willed part of me, didn't always do what it should.

I guess I will always be a sinner in need of help. That's why God sent his son to die for me. He knew I could never do it on my own; live righteously, that is. I could never "force" myself to be perfect. Guess Paul said it all in Romans:
Romans 7:14 -25
14) We know that the Law is spiritual. But I am merely a human, and I have been sold as a slave to sin. 15) In fact, I don't understand why I act the way I do. I don't do what I know is right. I do the things I hate. 16) Although I don't do what I know is right, I agree that the Law is good. 17) So I am not the one doing these evil things. The sin that lives in me is what does them.

18) I know that my selfish desires won't let me do anything that is good. Even when I want to do right, I cannot. 19) Instead of doing what I know is right, I do wrong. 20) And so, if I don't do what I know is right, I am no longer the one doing these evil things. The sin that lives in me is what does them.

21) The Law has shown me that something in me keeps me from doing what I know is right. 22) With my whole heart I agree with the Law of God. 23) But in every part of me I discover something fighting against my mind, and it makes me a prisoner of sin that controls everything I do. 24) What a miserable person I am. Who will rescue me from this body that is doomed to die? 25) Thank God! Jesus Christ will rescue me....

As I look around now, I see that my house hasn't really had that good of a cleaning in a long time. Truth is, I just haven't been all that angry! I've found a peace and contentment that comes from knowing that it's not about being perfect. It's about a relationship with God. Like any friendship, it develops over time.

...taste and see that the Lord [our God] is good! Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who trusts and takes refuge in Him.

Psalm 34:8 Amplified Bible

They're Back!

Sorry bluebirds! They're back! I guess that nest box was so ideal they just couldn't resist. The flying squirrels have returned to raise another litter in the bluebird nest box at the edge of our yard. I knocked on the box and she peaked her head out and then ducked down so quickly that I couldn't get a picture. See other picture below from last year. I found a nice drawing to include to give you a better idea what they look like. They don't really fly, they kind of glide when they jump.
If you want to know more about the cute little critters, go to this web site.

Are You Fully Charged Yet?

I was reading another blog site this week on the topic was prayer. I love the reference to cell phone reception and the little bars that show up on your phone. You'll have to read it for yourselves to get the full effect. Go to http://247christian.blogspot.com/2008/04/solitary-place.html

The writer was saying how Jesus would go to be alone to pray and how some villagers in African would have a designated spot to go pray alone. You could tell who'd been praying by how beat down their path was. He thought about how finding the perfect spot to talk with God was a bit like finding good cell phone reception. You know by the amount of reception bars.

Also on cell phones, you know when your cell phone is charged by the amount of battery bars that show up. What if you could tell who was "prayed up" by a display of battery bars over their heads on Sunday morning? Couldn't you just see the pastor looking out on the congregation and seeing how "powered up" each parishioner were?

I think the most important thing to remember about prayer is that our lives are incomplete without the "charge" we get from spending time with God. God is a jealous God. He wants to be first in our hearts. He desires to spend time with us. In return, He gives us hope, peace, joy. He gives a part of Himself to us. That's what keeps us "charged up" and ready for each difficulty that life throws our way.

So I ask, "Are you fully charged, yet?"

Secret Squirrel

It's that time of year again when the bluebirds appear. Last year we had a unexpected surprise in the nest box in the side yard. A family of flying squirrels had taken up residency there. We were as surprised as this little fellow when we went to see if there were bluebirds inside! He and his little brothers scampered up the post when we crossed his comfort zone.
I did see my first blue bird of the year on my way to work this morning. It was a beautiful color of blue with a slight flash of red underneath. I hope it doesn't find a "No Vacancy Sign" on our nest box this year!

Our Little Cave

Just wanted to share our little secret cave on our farm. It's very small in comparison to the ones out at Old Man's Cave and the other Parks. Just goes to show you, you need to be very careful when visiting Hocking Co. You can be walking along, and OOPS!

My husband was a forest officer for over 30 years at Hocking State Forest. Please heed the advice of the signs. Stay on the
trails out there! And don't be in there after dark.



You can't fly, and you don't bounce!!

Communing with Nature

On our daily walk today, the pond was a very peaceful place to rest and just listen. The return of the red-winged black bird was inevitable. We could hear the neighbor's rooster. Of course, there were a few dogs in the distance. Honey, the retriever, took her swim, then set about rooting out mice from their winter's nest. My husband pointed out the elusive chat, a bird that has a crazy call. If Jim Carey were a bird, that's how he'd sound. We never actually pinpointed its exact location. He said this was the best time of year to spot them before the leaves came out. I wish I could have photographed one for you. We casually looked for mushrooms on our return stroll. Hopefully, I will log our first finds for you here! If you've never had morel mushrooms, you haven't lived.

More Spring Beauties!

Still more signs of spring!

God is a Gentleman

I was thinking about our prayer vigil coming up in May before Pentacost. I just wanted to encourage people to pray now. I don't think they have discovered yet the potential that prayer can have in their lives.

I want to share the perspective I've gained through studying and being open to learn from others. I once heard that God is a gentleman. He does not force himself on us or our lives. It says that He stands at the door and knocks. If anyone hears His voice and will open the door, He will come in... (Rev. 3:20)
But, when you open the door, you don't just stand there staring at each other, you invite them in....you ask. Prayer is our way of asking Him to come in. So often I think we just forget that fact. He's standing there watching and waiting, but he isn't invited.

So, open up to the possibilities of what God can bring into our lives. Think of all the things He can help us with if we just ask. And if you don't know what to pray for in a situation, ask for guidance in that, too. "How should I pray about this situation, Lord?" He gives wisdom to all liberally and without reproach. (James 1:5)

A Taste of Spring....finally!

Finally, a reprieve from the rain! The crabapple tree out front is showing signs of flowering. Not the spectacle they have in Washington D.C., but nonetheless, a sign of spring! Next week the reality comes back to haunt us with more rain.

The Real Truth

Well, I have to admit that I was sucked into the voyeurism trap of the reality TV show The Moment of Truth. I was actually waiting for another show coming up, but had time to kill. I don't think I've ever seen such hype for a show that's really only worth about 10 minutes of the actual footage. By watching only the last half of the show, I'd been given the entire season's run down on everything I could have possibly missed. Their main tout was "Lives ruined! You have to see it to believe it!" So, I did.

The show is based on contestants being strapped to a lie detector and being asked very personal questions. Questions that only someone very close to them would think to ask. As I watched, people were willing to risk telling their deepest secrets in order to win money, even if to do so would hurt their wife or husband. They would confess to having affairs. They would confess to still being in love with their ex-boyfriends. You can see their spouses, and parents and friends react as the contestants confessed and the lie detector they were strapped to would verify their responses. Lives ruined. Secrets revealed, all for the sake of money.

Each contestant seemed to be willing to "bare it all." No amount of coercing from the host would make them quit. So, what happened? They each lost on the questions that seemed the easiest to answer. One girl was asked if she would pose nude in a magazine for $100,000.00. After thoughtful consideration, she said, "No," to which the lie detector said she was lying. She seemed shocked. Why? Who was she lying to? Herself? The one girl was asked if she'd ever used sex to advance her career as a model. She said, "No," and again lost all the money she'd gained after crushing her husband only moments before with her confessions. She risked her marriage, but lied about that?

I was left with the most provoking question that nagged me all night. What lies hurt us the most? Is it the ones we tell to others, or the ones we tell to ourselves? That's what shocked me most after watching the show. They all seem to know what was the truth about the lies they told to others, but didn't realize the ones they told themselves. Whether it was, "I've never compromised my integrity by using my sexuality to advance my career," or "I'd never compromise my integrity by posing nude," to "I think I'm a good person." Subconsciously, they must have known the truth, because the lie detector gave them away. (That is if you believe those things actually work.)

Perhaps the whole thing this show reveals is that it's easier to sacrifice others' feelings than it is to sacrifice the self-image we build for ourselves. So, then, what lies do you live with? What "image" do you give yourself? We count out the reasons we do things and justify them with our excuses. But, who can really judge us?

Before getting overloaded with guilt and introspection, which some of us are inclined to do, I want to balance the picture by saying this:

Paul, an apostle, wrote in I Corinthians 4:3-5
3) I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. 4) My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me. 5) Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.

I believe we do the best we can to live our lives according to what God shows us to do, but we should never be deceived into thinking that we will ever reach perfection. Only Jesus is perfection and will be the one to judge our lives. He works in us and through us to help us improve, and is He is the author and finisher of our faith. Just be careful not to fall into the trap of viewing others lives as so much lower than our own that we think it okay to point and laugh at them.

One Attitude Adjustment, please.

While watching TV this morning, Joyce Meyer was talking with someone about the difference between obedience and submission. I was struck by the fact that I really didn't know the meaning of submission. Obedience, I knew. It means you obey; do what you're told. So, what's submission? Why didn't I know this? It's our attitude. You can do something and be obedient, but you can do it while grumbling and complaining.

Since attending Pastor Mark's classes on learning how to become witnesses for Christ, I find myself wrestling with my conscience. I know we are told to be witnesses, but I have every excuse for not "bothering" others with my beliefs. "It's uncomfortable." "I don't know how." "Let someone else do it." "I don't have to and you can't make me!" "It doesn't mean I'm not saved." I think my attitude and my heart are going to need some adjusting before I can ever really reach out to anyone. I could try to witness, but with an attitude of "I'm only doing this because I have to" I won't get far. After all, the whole meaning of God's message is love. It all boils down to this, "For God so loved the world that He gave his only son to die for us." John 3:16

Submission to me feels a little like dying inside. Wrestling with the demons of my own self-will and pride, I die to make room for God to come in. Yeh, it hurts a little, but it also feels good. Through submission, I learn what it means to love. Through humble surrender, I find true power. Because love conquers all.

So, I guess I'm saying, I'll take that Attitude Adjustment, please and thank you!

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

I woke up to the sound of rain pummeling my roof early this morning before daylight. There's been a repeating weather pattern over Ohio for months now. Seems that every week, some sort of precipitation has fallen, usually about the middle of the week. We had one siege the other night. Another came through last night and seems to be hovering over us now. Someone said we're at least 17" above our average so far this year. If it keeps this up, we'll need an ark.

Of course, we'll never really need an ark again. God gave us His word in Genesis, chapter 9, that He will never let the earth be flooded to the point that it drowns out every living creature. He even set the rainbow in the clouds as a sign of this promise. I find it comforting and amazing in this day and age that there is something to hold onto that I can always count on. When God gives his word on something, it's engraved in stone. Numbers 23:19 says, "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?" His word is dependable and reliable, unlike man's conventional wisdom of today.

I find it disturbing and amusing that we are taught by scientists about the world only to have them refute their own facts. I was blown away recently when they came out and told us that Pluto doesn't exist. How many school textbooks do we have to replace because of that one? The teaching of evolution always was a head-scratcher for me. With my Christian upbringing, I was taught the biblical creation story. Then, during my formative years in school, I was taught that we evolved. So, I tried to reason that maybe we were created by God through evolution. But that doesn't wash, because the Bible says God created the earth and its inhabitants in six days. (He rested on the seventh.) So, unless God's days are worth a thousand years each, that theory doesn't hold water. And what's all this fuss about global warming? They've even came out and said that they were wrong about that, too.

So, I guess it all boils down to this: Only God's word and God's wisdom is to be trusted. Although I may need an umbrella, my galloshes and even a row boat, I know that I never have to fear that we'll need an ark again!