Trinidad: The Plot Thickens

No matter how many times I get on a plane, I still enjoy the window seat. We just completed takeoff from Miami and the views from my window were both spectacular and thought provoking. Spectacular was the clear, bright blue sky in contrast to the bright, cottony clouds. Thought provoking was the shrinking image of busy city streets and neighborhoods for as far as visibility allowed.

Fortunately, I was able to capture a few photos of the neighborhoods before we were over the Atlantic. Looking at streets lined with homes reminded me of something dear hubby and I often say when in "people watching" mode: "everybody has a story". As silly as it seems, we've sometimes speculated as to the plots of certain passers-by.

In all probability, a square mile of suburbia is fraught with a million little stories, some intertwine with other "characters" in the community adding a level of joy in some cases, while relationship drama exists in the stories of others. The culdesacs we just passed over are likely full of children thrilled its summer - while on the inside of their homes, all kinds of "the real housewives of Miami-Dade" drama is unfolding. Not that those culdesacs are any different than the ones we all live on.

On any street visited, if exposed to the realities of its residents - we'd find heartache, frustration, and depression interspersed with pockets of joy and contentment. The interesting bit is the circumstances and challenges faced are often similar. So, how is it that marital struggles, financial upheaval, prodigal children, cancer, death, and disappointment can visit our households and yield radically different responses? Ah, of course its largely because of faith.

Christians aren't immune to the difficulties of this life - in fact, trials are guaranteed in the lives of Believers. This "guarantee" is not an implication that we all emerge from trials completely unscathed but we do tend to emerge with greater faith and compassion for others who will walk thru similar storms in life. For these reasons and more, we are on a flight bound for Port of Spain, Trinidad.

We will share our stories and the way Christ has carried us through rough times; we will share the hope and healing found only in Him- and we will surely hear of many Trini ladies' stories as well. Pray that we will be attentive, empathetic listeners as we intersect this next chapter of our lives with theirs. Pray that God will use us, giving us His Words as a healing balm to the afflicted. We have been told of typical mindsets in this primarily Hindu region. We have learned of culturally specific challenges facing women and their daughters - situations most of us could never fathom back home. They need hope. They need healing.

One of the encouraging cards hidden in my bookbag reads: "Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Phil 1:6) On the inside, it reads "I'm believing great things for you!"

Everybody has a story...and for those of us with faith in Christ, we know that whatever "Real Housewives drama" comes our way - our stories will have a Heavenly conclusion! As long as breath remains in our bodies, anyone can change the ending of their own story while finding greater joy, comfort, purpose and peace in the meanwhile. Not a bed of roses by any means - but infinitely better than the alternative - literally!

Believe great things for us. Believe great things for the women of Trinidad! Our stories are all far from over (we assume). While this next chapter is unwritten, its pregnant with opportunity for blessings, adventure and life change. It's looking really exciting - turn the page!

T

PS - all teammates doing well so far - most are sleeping... I will probably regret not napping!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Testing

Just added a blogging app on my phone - Hopefully, this will enable simple, short updated.

Taking off from Miami now (after a few minor glitches - its all good!)

T


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Trinidad: Wisps & Other Stuff

Well, our Trinidad adventure has commenced! Four of us spent the night in a hotel near the airport - that was a very wise move (especially, for non morning people like me!) The hotel stay also afforded closer bonding with those present! We learned things about each other that were complete unknowns until last night. We also laughed a great deal and were able to start our morning off with prayer for the entire team, for our travels today, the families, friends and pets we all left behind...and for the women we will all encounter in a matter of hours.

So far, God has shown great favor in numerous ways: for instance, my checked bag exceeded maximum weight by .5 lbs - instead of a $100 fee - I got a casual wink and a nod! We are presently in the Miami airport and the flight from Atl to here was uneventful (and NO crying babies or barfing nervous flyers on board!)

With limited room in my bookbag, I packed minimal toiletries including "wisps". Most military moms are all too familiar with this ingenious invention: a small, pre-pasted, disposable tooth brush. As I was brushing my teeth this morning, I was reminded of the many "wisp-filled" care packages I sent to my son when he was in Afghanistan. He, and thousands of other troops have gone there to bring hope, peace, and a new system of government to the Afghani people.

Standing at the sink, it occurred to me that Kelly, Barb, Trish, Elizabeth, Kim, Hilary, Cathy and myself are "troops" - heading to the battlefield. Like Tyler, we are going to a war zone with a mission of taking the hope, and peace found in Christ to desperate people. We want to give them a new ruler as well, A King - THE KING!

Another interesting parallel- the value of encouragement and prayers from those we love back home! I was brought to tears when I realized my husband, my daughter and my "adoptive mom" wrote letters of encouragement, prayers and scripture for me to open each day we are in active battle. (The phone messages, texts, Facebook comments are meaningful not just to the individual recipients but to our entire team!) Please keep'em coming!

We will update from Trinidad when time and connectivity permit!

Pray for us as we board the next flight to Port of Spain - we'll have "boots on the ground" in just a few short hours! (chacos, sperrys, keds, and flip flops anyway)

Love to all,
T

PS-posted from my iPad - please forgive grammatical errors and overall aesthetics!

Meet the Team - and Pray for us Please!

Make a photo album

Happy Father's Day to My Dad

This picture collage personalized with Smilebox

Mirror, Mirror

“Mirror Mirror” was not on my list of “Must See” movies, yet it was the option selected by a group of friends tonight.  The gist of Disney’s classic “Snow White” is still familiar to me.  That same version, re-released in the early 90s just happens also to be the very first animated film I took my baby girl to...it was also the first and last film we ever had to leave early.  (Looking back, it was a little too intense for a toddler – oops, a Rookie Mom mistake.)

Movies are my “thing”.  I’m the type that likes to watch and re-watch great movies for missed clues, editorial mistakes, and quite simply – entertainment.  Sometimes, movies serve as a great escape when a week or particular day has been a bit overwhelming. However, if a movie fails to capture interest, my eyes are the first in the room to grow heavy.   Tonight, as I sat comfortably, well-fed and hydrated from a yummy dinner beforehand – my greatest concern was falling asleep.  Instead, I kept wishing a “pause” button was within reach – along with a notebook and pen.  There were so many “life applicable” gems incorporated into the revised familiar classic.  As we left the theater, I asked a friend if it was “just me” or were the multiple life and redemption references brazenly apparent to everyone. 

Background/Refresher: Snow White was born into nobility, but her mother died leaving her without a mom.  An evil woman later married her dad, thus becoming Queen.  Through evil manipulation, the king was soon out of the picture, no longer reining over his castle or the Kingdom.  The Evil Monarch (Julia Roberts) was rather conniving and manipulative to say the least.  A woman engulfed with pride – yet obviously painfully insecure.  She despised Snow White; so much that she manipulated others into believing deceitful lies about the “fairest of all” - the cherished and beautiful daughter of the King.  In this modern day version, the embittered Queen attempts to land a fifth husband, not for love, nor romance – but for selfish greed and continued control. 

Disclaimer:  Having seen this film just once and only an hour ago (and without a notebook!), here are a few plotlines and quotes that, in my humble moviegoer opinion, have great relevance to life, especially, to the lives of girls; and to those of us who have known the sensation of being in the crosshairs of another’s unyielding jealousy and envy. Not everyone has experienced being the target of such animosity, but I’m willing to bet that most of us have.  (If not, we have a friend who can likely relate.)

Quotes and Commentary:

The Queen Regarding Snow White: “She is a threat to everything, take her to the woods and feed her to the beast!”

Isn’t it interesting how bullies are often able to rally support simply by wagging their lying tongues?  I see the Queen as nothing more than a “Royal Bully”. Bullies secure the loyalty of their “supporters” by implementing a “gift with purchase” business model. If you give me your support in destroying or at least significantly damaging the life of someone I loathe – validating me in the process, you’ll receive: a spot at the cool kids’ lunch table, a new bike, a luxury vacation, a partnership in business, a promotion, FILL IN THE BLANK! (Some people are willing to sell their integrity for minimal, quickly fleeting and superficial gain!)

In one situation witnessed recently, the “Real Life Evil Queen” built her army by funding various wants and needs of her constituents.  She preys on the ones easily swayed, with the ultimate goal of controlling their actions long term.  The “bought” person(s) eventually attain a level of dependence making it uncomfortable to break free from the control – even when breaking free becomes desired. 

I’ve also seen it take years for some to realize they’ve been caught in this trap, but once free – they are all the wiser, and not at all surprised to see others caught in the same cycle, with the same conniving bully.

~~~~~

Baker Margaret to Snow: “The Queen has the whole kingdom convinced you are nothing but a pathetic shut it. The worst is, she has you believing it too.” 

Like Snow, it can be a little too easy for us to view our significance in a manner consistent with the opinions of others.  That is dangerous and shortsighted!  Our value is not contingent with or decided by friends, family, coworkers - or other external factors.  Too often we forget that!

~~~~~

The Queen regarding Snow White: “Snow will have to do what she does best.  Snow will have to fall!” 

hmmmm – fall?  (Interesting, especially when we consider “All fall short…..”)

~~~~~

The Queen to Snow White regarding a shiny red apple: “It would warm my ancient heart if you could accept this modest gift on your wedding day.”

Snow White: “It's very kind of you.”

The Queen: “Just one bite... and a good fortune to the fairest of them all.”

Okay – I don’t have to tell you what apple this reminded me of!  (The Evil Queen seems to have a great deal in common with The Evil One...pride, deceit, tempest, building a self-serving contingency....the list goes on.)

~~~~~

Dwarves to Snow: “A weakness is only a weakness if you think of it that way.” 
In our weakness…His power is made perfect – and He makes us strong.

~~~~~

Perhaps, my favorite recurring theme of the movie was this: No matter who plotted against Snow White, regardless of the weapons and war waged against her, in spite of the lies temporarily believed by some, nothing, nothing, nothing kept her from being the Daughter of the King!  We can all rest in this truth. No one can take away our birthright! No one can separate us from the Love of the Father. 

I looked it up and don’t see any reference to Gregory Maguire’s faith (author of Mirror Mirror…Wicked, and other fairy tale rewrites), however I did note that the Brothers Grimm added Christian elements to their stories (authors of the original Snow White.)  Without time to research their story methods, my hunch is they were well familiar with scripture.  If not, they were well versed in human nature and the ongoing battle between good and evil. 

So, the “fairy tale ending” is not a fairy tale at all – it’s an eternal promise:

We CAN all be Snow White….

I hear the Savior say, Thy strength indeed is small! Child of weakness, watch and pray, Find in Me thine all in all Jesus paid it all All to Him I owe Sin had left a crimson stain He washed it white as snow Lord, now indeed I find Thy power, and Thine alone, Can change the leper's spots And melt the heart of stone Jesus paid it all All to Him I owe Sin had left a crimson stain He washed it white as snow For nothing good have I Where-by Thy grace to claim I'll wash my garments white In the blood of Calvary's Lamb Jesus paid it all All to Him I owe Sin had left a crimson stain He washed it white as snow And when before the throne I stand in Him complete Jesus died my soul to save My lips shall still repeat Jesus paid it all All to Him I owe Sin had left a crimson stain He washed it white as snow Jesus paid it all All to Him I owe Sin had left a crimson stain He washed it white as snow (Jesus Paid it All) Note: comment/updated info on this song from "Terry" below:

Happy 21st Creighton!

Digital slideshow made with Smilebox

Dear Jason...(JJ)

We never met face to face, yet your very life had tremendous impact on my family, me – and on countless others.  You see, the October morning I said a tearful goodbye to my baby boy – you were there in the crowd.  Like your sweet mom and hundreds more – I was hating those last few minutes before you boarded the bus.  Whether your mom was on base, or she was agonizing from home as many were - via cell phones, prayers, and maternal raw emotion, we who adore our sons weren’t oblivious to the fact that those final moments at LeJeune, may be your very last on US soil.   The moments before you, Tyler, and the young men of 2/2 boarded the buses are moments that will never leave memory.  Not just mine, not just your mom’s, but every mom and dad who cared deeply for their son, no matter where goodbyes were said, those moments will NEVER be forgotten.

In a few days, our country will “celebrate” Memorial Day.  For most, it means a day off of work.  The United States Post Office and many banks will be closed.  Most schools in the Southeast have already dismissed for the summer, but the ones around the country who’ve not concluded their academic year will enjoy a three-day weekend.  As I’m writing this, there are people in packed cars headed to see out of town relatives or in route to the beach.  People are planning menus for Monday afternoon cookouts.  Still others will just be grateful to sleep in on Monday morning, avoiding the typical commute and marking off a few task items. 

You see, Jason – too often the meaning of Memorial Day has been lost.   They don’t know that it’s about you and thousands of other young men and women who have lost their lives while fighting for, defending or upholding the values of this incredible nation.  They don’t get it.  They take freedoms for granted.  “They” have never had a beloved son (or daughter) deploy to a hostile environment, placing their physical lives on the line, so that the rights and privileges of others can be preserved. 

Enough of that; If you could hear my words today – Jason, I’d want you to know that your parents and brother love you still and the memory of you is ever present.  They honor your courageous life with theirs.  You’d be so proud of your family.  You’d be blown away by the strength of your mom.  Never, never, never - would I want to walk the path that she is on.  Surely, my feet would falter – yet she does it with humility, grace and with great dignity.   She looks beyond herself and the physical void that is left in your absence.  Pressing forward, she honors and remembers her sweet son through the way she loves and encourages your friends – and their families. 

One of the most unexplainably humbling moments of the past few years, was sitting with your mom at the Memorial Service of another fallen young man – Blake.  (...tell him he has great reason to be proud as well.  His parents are phenomenal people, pressing forward in faith and still an active part of the Marine family community.)  We sat on a row which would make it convenient for your mom to exit the sanctuary if the “still too fresh” reminders were too painful.  I told her I’d walk out with her. Rest assured, she would have not been left alone in her grief that day.  She hung in there – with love for you, her precious son.  In some ways, the words of encouragement that day – the talk of Heaven, the absence of strife – were a delayed comfort.  In her raw grief, at your own service – there were many similar words shared – but I can only imagine, those words were hard to penetrate the heart of a woman who had just lost her beloved oldest child.  I can’t say for certain how she felt – and I hope that’s a certainty that will elude me for a lifetime.

Your parents were there when the 2/2 returned from their last deployment in February.  It was a pleasant surprise to see them there – again, you’d be so proud of how they honor you by serving others.  Your mom mentioned that she felt “close to you” at the recent homecoming.  Words still fail me – but your mom and your dad, show stellar resilience.  Their memories of you, your love and honor for them and for your country, your antics and all that you stood for, remain here today. 

Many have lost sight of what “Memorial Day” is declared to be.  I wish it fell routinely on the last Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday of May.  It’s not meant to be a convenience to civilians, but that’s what Monday has become for a great deal of Americans.  Please know that in my heart and in the hearts of those you have personally touched – your memory and your life, will be forever honored. 

No, you’re not physically here.  Rest assured, no terrorist organization can erase your legacy.  You will live on in the hearts of those you loved.  Your memory will stay with those of us who have watched in awe, the strength and increasing faith in God that resulted from your passing.  Your memory will not dissipate from the friends you made at LeJeune and especially not from those who were serving alongside of you on that fateful February day. 

Interestingly, I remember vividly the day that you died – I wish I didn’t.  I hate the words “River City” and will always recall the happenings of that day.  The sound of my son’s voice when he called is permanently etched in my mind.  I’m grateful for the sound of his voice, and so wish your parents had the same experience that day.  I don’t know how you felt about tattoos while you were here, but I suspect you’d be humbled by the number of young men who have a memorial tattoo on their bodies that reminds them of you every time they see themselves in a mirror.  Some people have issues with “ink” but how could any parent object to a permanent reminder of a friend whose life on Earth was cut short in an act of valor?  Tyler has accumulated an impressive collection since turning 18.  Most though, have been since his return from Afghanistan.  His most recent tattoo – has your silhouette….and your name.  As a mom, I’m proud of him for NOT wanting to forget you and others.  Having your name displayed on his bicep also provides ample opportunities for strangers to hear of your brave devotion.  See, people are going to be talking about you long, long, long after you were here.  Interestingly, several celebrities have died since you – interestingly too, they get a lot of coverage the week or two following their passing, but I haven’t seen a single celebrity tattoo.    

No, Jason, you may not have had as many years on Earth as most, but there is no doubt – the imprint and the legacy you left behind will outshine many lives with decades more of opportunity.  You made a difference.  Mine is just one life you touched. Believe me, the hearts you impacted span across this great nation and into other countries.  Although you’re gone, others will continue to learn of your bravery, sacrifice, devotion to family, and your love of God. You’re not forgotten.  You never will be. 

Sure, there will be cookouts on Monday, people will sleep in, the lakes and beaches will be full - but no matter what we’re doing, or where we are – there will be plenty of people remembering you and your fallen comrades from years gone by.  Know there will be many prayers offered for the darling family you (and others) have left behind. 

Scripture tells us that you’re happy to be in Heaven – you know no pain, you’re in the most glorious of all places.  Your tears have been wiped away; there is nothing you long for.  You wouldn’t want to be back on Earth because you’ve seen what awaits those of us who have come into a saving knowledge of Jesus.  While the ones you’ve left behind still feel the pain of your loss- I pray they find comfort in knowing you are with the Lord…and that one day you’ll all be reunited for eternity. 

 

The First House on the Left

Our neighborhood is a comprised of approximately 96 homes in a desirable suburb of North Atlanta.  We have decades old, well established yards, with gorgeous trees and  even a lake.  We have swim and tennis and an active Homeowner’s Association.   A cornucopia of shopping, gourmet restaurants, parks and leisure  is literally minutes away.  The majority of homes are larger than average.  Most are “traditional” by design – often with full finished basements.  It’s a quiet community with fabulous neighbors.  Crime has not been an issue in the nine years we've lived here.  Our community is nestled in a top ranked school system with convenient access to everything.  When we peer out kitchen windows, we see trees, flowers, and beautifully choreographed birds, butterflies, squirrels and more. 

This is on one of the "better days" - yet, weeds galore

Residents seem quite content here – with one caveat.  There is a house on our street that is an absolute eye sore.  It has long been vacant.  The “phantom owner” fails to maintain the property to the point of neglect.  It’s my understanding that the issue has been addressed with proper authorities and appropriate “processes” are in place.  While encouraging news, “processes” take time and fail to lessen the eye strain every time anyone enters our neighborhood. While this one horrendous yard exists there are many lawns that look as though they were carefully and precisely extracted from Pebble Beach or Pinehurst and plopped in our midst. 

There is a lovely home for sale a few doors down.  I’m sure that prospective buyers may be inclined to turn around when their sight lands upon the yellow stucco that could quite possibly house Gomez and Morticia.  This one horribly unkempt lot would be unfortunate on any street in our neighborhood, but it is presently the “first impression.”  The first house on the left has given me quite a bit of pause lately.

We learn about first impressions at an early age.  We grow up hearing the colloquialism, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”.  From youth, we are conditioned to put "our best foot forward" -  perhaps appealing to the masses, yet  often far removed from authenticity.  How absurd.  Yet, at my present age (43) – it’s still easy to succumb to absurd, cultural conditioning.   Just yesterday, I found myself explaining to someone why a 5’9” girl (me) would consider wearing 4” heels.  Why?  Because, generally speaking – people take you more seriously with every inch of height.  It’s silly and superficial!  (Although, I have a bias toward fabulous shoes - ascribing to the "keep your heels, head and standards high" philosophy!)

  At some point along the way, my wardrobe became  somewhat contingent on what persons in “authority positions” would be encountered on a given day.  Conversely, in recent months – I’ve learned to appreciate (and encourage among friends) “cosmetic free days”.  Those are coming about more and more!  (It's great for the skin!)  There is obviously an inner battle brewing within - one between preconceived notions and time-proven reality. 

On the flipside, my own first proclivities of others have been “generally accurate.”  Most often, intuition kicks in and a façade is easily penetrated.  Although, history is not 100% accurate.  There have been individuals encountered that seemed “harsh and abrasive”.  Through further interaction, initial assessment has been replaced by one that is “quiet and yet, incredibly nurturing and gentle.”   Most significantly, if my husband remained defined by the first impression – he’d not be my husband now.  It’s funny how life works. …and also quite humbling. People perceived as friends may not be – people perceived as adversaries, may turn out to be loyal and true companions. 

A very dear, longtime friend once told me that throughout early high school, she thought I was conceited and very snobby.   It took a little time for her to figure out that I was only extremely shy and painfully insecure.  How profoundly opposite of her “first impression”! Then again, six years ago – I ascertained a very positive initial assessment of someone who I now know only “made a great first impression.”  Through conversations, actions and handwritten letters – it’s clear that this individual was also too familiar with the phrase, “You only get one time to make a first impression.”  Time revealed greater, darker truths – that are far from the persona presented to immediate family, friends, and prospects.  My desire to love this person made the positive first impression almost impossible to forget.  Wanting to believe the best - the best was a remarkable front, and I was one of the last to see the reality.  Some people are simply brilliant actors/actresses.  (Keep both eyes wide open!  First impressions can be hard to shake – in either direction.)

First impressions are a reality.  We simply must not assume first impressions are correct.  Just as potential buyers should drive past the first house on the left to see what sits beyond the “entrance” – so should we pursue further information as we first become acquainted with others.   Don’t be too quick to write someone off.  Don’t be too quick to give someone your heart.  Be prayerful.  Be wise.

This is not an admonition - but a charge  and a challenge to self. 

 It doesn’t hurt to make a great first impression...it really doesn't hurt to make a great first impression this is truly representative of the person you are.  I've no doubt that I've left poor first imprints  for others. Hopefully, they've extended a bit of grace in those situations as was the case with my childhood friend!

First impressions aren't necessarily a "Hole in One."    Lesson learned - again.

IMHO
T

Libre Euphoria: Roy G Biv Style

Interested in a little cheap therapy? Forget Dewey Decimal!  After tackling multiple organizational projects in recent weeks, I’ve grown particularly fond of the euphoria associated with Roy G. Biv.  If you’ve been out of middle school for a while and have forgotten this mnemonic for the color spectrum, here it is: RED.ORANGE.YELLOW.GREEN.BLUE.INDIGO.VIOLET.  I first rearranged my dresser drawers and closet in the order of the spectrum.  Opening the drawers of my dresser is uber pleasing to the eyes.  I’ve discarded and donated so many pieces of clothing that the remaining inventory is much easier managed.  Especially, with the “rolled” shirts positioned in ROY G. BIV fashion.  

                                     

While perusing the April 2012 Redbook magazine, my eyes fell upon a picture of a bookcase arranged in the color spectrum.  GENIUS, I thought! New inspiration trumped my existing project list and revitalized my organizational enthusiasm.  So, here I sit on Day 1 of a 3 Day “Stay-cation” – facing a newly arranged bookcase in my home office.  Roy G. Biv is cathartic.  Try it.  If you consider the traits affiliated with right/left brain dominance – I come out in the middle.  People lovingly tease me for anal tendencies while others pick up on the more creative side. 

“Middle brain” is probably a more accurate descriptor (with perhaps a slight leaning toward left.)   

BEFORE:  revamping my office bookshelves:

• All books shelved by subject matter
• Within each section, books alphabetized by author’s last name
• Corresponding excel spreadsheet on laptop with Title/Category/Author/Notes

"not terrible"..... just blah

  AFTER: revamping office bookshelves:

• All books shelved by color, following ROYGBIV
• Row of White books across the top shelves
•  Row of Black books across the bottom shelves
• Corresponding excel spreadsheet has new column: Spine (color) - indicating location on shelves

To bring out your inner creative librarian, check out: bookshelfporn.com.To easily create your own online “library” –create a free account at librarything.com. (I just started one for kicks – maybe eventually I’ll combine my multi-purpose spreadsheet and the online library.)

Oh …and a bonus:Bookplates that coordinate nicely with my office – and my Kennedy fascination.I created these utilizing Avery mailing labels – much less expensive than bookplates purchased in the past!





My new bookplates - a TLH original!



Portion of revised spreadsheet: title/category/spine color/special notes






Okay, My Marine Son is Home -
no more blogging/organizing!