Showing posts with label musings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label musings. Show all posts
Monday, June 10, 2013
Thoughts and ponderings
Really do need to write more often. Life has become a crazy turmoil of thoughts and occurrences.
The plant is what it is. Tom has a contract for 18-24 months. I know it is what he wanted. After that...who knows?
I have a job, although it is fraught with problems. Another new principal, this brings the total for the school to 5 in 15 years. Two new assistant principals, I'm not even going to start thinking about how many that makes for the last 15 years. Life total of principals is now 12 and assistant principals has to be up to 25-30 now. More teachers coming and going at the school. More change and adjustments to the school.
I know Tom has thought about getting a job back at 4&5. I don't feel that great about that choice. It would give him what he thinks he wants. He's also thinking it would allow him to retire in 10 or so years. He has said he would probably always work at something but with this county seemingly dying, what would he do? If we stayed, it would probably mean my having to stay at the school for at least 20-25 more years. I can't picture doing what I'm doing right now for that long. Job prospects in this area, especially in my field, are slim to non-existant. The project I've been quietly working on for the last 3-5 years doesn't seem to be making headway. There seems to constantly be things coming up to stand in the way. The area we were looking at is being hit by the recession and it seems to have finally settled in there. I have faith, but I'm also being realistic.
Feeling like if we stay it will also mean staying in this house. It's an ok house. It isn't something Tom and I picked together, though. I would like something that fit our needs a bit better. It would also be a good thing to get away from the neighbors. Issues there continue. It seems they don't want us to leave the house. Just recently we learned they don't think we should walk our dog on the street. The harassment continues. Most recently we had to call the police...again. We learned they had lied about us...again. The sheriff sided with them! It seems they can do what they like and we are forced to tolerate it as best we can.
Trying to sort through some odds and ends. Weird things keep popping up. Tired of feeling so tired all of the time. Tired of not being able to get the best sleep, either.
Leaving for Phoenix in just over a week. Maybe a change of scenery is what I need to see things clearly.
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Really need to post here more...
It's been over a year since I last posted here. Really need to get back into the habit of writing here. There is quite a bit going on and I 'need' a place to think things out.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Dum Dum devotion
I read this this morning. This is something I am really struggling with right now. Work is frustrating and so often it feels like I'm "going through the motions" down there. I'm exhausted and really don't understand why I am still at the school. There are students I like, there are teachers I like. Taken as a whole, though, it isn't the best environment. This school year has taken its toll on me. I feel worn down, weary, exhausted, burned out. For some reason, though, God is not done with me and with my job there...yet. There have been glimmers in the past. He does know what is best. He knows what I need. I know he is making my way perfect and will release me from that place when HIS timing is complete and perfect. In the mean time, my job is to serve Him. My job is to seek Him. My job is to live my life for Him. In doing my job to the best of my ability (and with a cheerful heart) is accepting the gift (the lollipop) he has given.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dum Dums
By Christine Hoover | Mar 26, 2012 04:00 am
My bank teller must be a dad.
Every time I go to the bank, he gives my children the exact same colored lollipops. I’ve never asked him to do this, but, without fail, he digs through the lollipop basket until he finds a matching set of Dum Dum lollipops.
He must be a dad because he knows about the fight he is saving me. The one where each of my boys are eyeing the lollipops they don't have rather than enjoying the one they do. The one where they whine for their favorite color. The one in which they are not satisfied until they have what their sibling has.
As I drive away from the bank’s drive-through window, I inwardly thank this man, and I think about this picture of human jealousy: envious, controlling, domineering, possessive, and self-focused.
God is a Dad, but he is not like my bank teller.
He gives lollipops out to everyone, but he does not give them equally or similarly. He gives them perfectly, however, and until we trust that, we’ll be dissatisfied with what we’ve been given.
As a Father, God knows his kids’ tendency to want what their siblings have. It's hard not wanting the bright pink lollipop when we’re given the brown one. But unlike our spiteful jealousy, God’s jealousy for us says, “I absolutely know what is best for you and I want you to have it. Because I love you, I will not give you anything less than my best. However, what I give you is going to be different than what I give that person you are comparing yourself to.” He lifts our eyes up to him and away from watching others and reminds us that he has perfectly and strategically given us our gifts, talents, and ministries.
Romans 8:28 reminds us that God is always working things for good on our behalf:
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
“What a power would be unleashed in your life and mind if we really believed that the almighty God, whose counsel cannot be frustrated, is this very minute, busily at work making sure that what happens to us this afternoon and tomorrow at home and at work is only what is best for us!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dum Dums
By Christine Hoover | Mar 26, 2012 04:00 am
My bank teller must be a dad.
Every time I go to the bank, he gives my children the exact same colored lollipops. I’ve never asked him to do this, but, without fail, he digs through the lollipop basket until he finds a matching set of Dum Dum lollipops.
He must be a dad because he knows about the fight he is saving me. The one where each of my boys are eyeing the lollipops they don't have rather than enjoying the one they do. The one where they whine for their favorite color. The one in which they are not satisfied until they have what their sibling has.
As I drive away from the bank’s drive-through window, I inwardly thank this man, and I think about this picture of human jealousy: envious, controlling, domineering, possessive, and self-focused.
God is a Dad, but he is not like my bank teller.
He gives lollipops out to everyone, but he does not give them equally or similarly. He gives them perfectly, however, and until we trust that, we’ll be dissatisfied with what we’ve been given.
As a Father, God knows his kids’ tendency to want what their siblings have. It's hard not wanting the bright pink lollipop when we’re given the brown one. But unlike our spiteful jealousy, God’s jealousy for us says, “I absolutely know what is best for you and I want you to have it. Because I love you, I will not give you anything less than my best. However, what I give you is going to be different than what I give that person you are comparing yourself to.” He lifts our eyes up to him and away from watching others and reminds us that he has perfectly and strategically given us our gifts, talents, and ministries.
Romans 8:28 reminds us that God is always working things for good on our behalf:
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
“What a power would be unleashed in your life and mind if we really believed that the almighty God, whose counsel cannot be frustrated, is this very minute, busily at work making sure that what happens to us this afternoon and tomorrow at home and at work is only what is best for us!"
Saturday, December 31, 2011
2011-a year in review
I don't normally do a meme for the new year. As I reflected on this past year, I though I would.
January: The year started reasonably enough. Tom and I had the NPD car show at Silver Springs and had a nice time. Didn't win anything but my '67 got a lot of attention. Started a new semester at work and that brought a new batch of kids. Had one of the best English 3 classes I've had in years. Had a small English 1 grade forgive class. Struggled with the "dump all Drama classes into one" the school keeps doing to me. Ended up deciding to do an incorporated project for Drama and we studied "Our Town", I think that project went fairly well. On the 27th my brother and sister-in-law (and Amelia!) welcomed Knox Richard James into their family.
February: Valentine's Day, my Birthday, FCAT. Worked a lot. Cast the spring show and started rehearsing. Had some blood work done and the endocrinologist thought we had my thyroid levels under control with medication. My GP wanted me to start taking some additional medication but I resisted, I just wasn't comfortable with taking it then.
March: 3rd quarter exams. Spring Break (where I basically slept the whole time). Rehearsals continued. Adopted a new Black and Tan coonhound (Annabel Lee) and she is amazing. We knew we would know when it was time to get a new dog and God sent us Bellee
April: Rehearsal increased and the show was the end of April. Tom and I celebrated our 13th anniversary. Got word Uncle Bill (Dad's brother) had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Granny fell and broke her other hip, requiring surgery. During the Spring show I got work Uncle Bill went home to be with the Lord. Continued to have problems with DE the AP (she walked out of the spring show twice and trash talked me and my kids).
May: Went to Uncle Bill's Celebration of Life. Graded research projects. Officially learned I was losing my classroom and black box theatre. Got torn to shreds in an evaluation and after 5 years of DE the AP's 'issues' addressed the problems with 'The Boss'. Learned DE the AP had been reassigned to the Renaissance Center (school for 'problem students') and she was getting her 'wish' to be a Principal (this is a bit of a 'be careful what you wish for' situation). Had the Broken Leg banquet and said good bye to another group I cared deeply about. Went to another graduation (in the miserable heat). Started packing and moving my home on campus (death #2). Ended my 12th school year at CRHS.
June: Tried to recover from the school year. Wasn't feeling well. Spent at least a week working with Cate on the 'sooper seekrit' project. Met people in Dunnellon. Karen contacts me about Mom and Dad's address. She wants to send Dad a plant for Father's Day. (this is a big deal) Mom turned 68(?)
July: went to St. Maarten for a week with Mom and Dad. Wish I could go back to that condo on Simpson Bay at least once a year. It was such a beautiful place and I really loved sitting on the balcony (either the small one off my room or the big one off the main section) and reading or looking at the water/boats/planes take off or land or watch the sunset or watch the rain showers move. St. Maarten was a wonderful experience. Started getting ready for a new school year. Got my hair trimmed and colored (note to self...don't wait 10 months between trim and coloring) Dad had a cancer scare.
August: started school year #13 at CRHS. Stuff was missing that was supposed to be moved. The new construction isn't everything it was 'supposed' to be. My room is very small and doesn't begin to meet the needs of my subject. They forced me to teach 2 English 3 classes and only 1 Drama class. Was given no time to move out of my old space and lost about 85% of what we owned, the program will never recover from that. Was given a number of challenging students (an autistic, an ESOL, several very low learners). Started having lunch with another teacher and one of the aids. Have to start going to training mandated by the county. Lots of changes going on. Got closer to Bri after knowing her for about 2 years. Going on a Spring Break cruise with Mom, Dad and Karen. Tom working on SD A LOT. Planning to have the car done by October 2012. Angela turned 34. Granny turned 92.
September: Granny passed away on September 10 while Mom and Dad were in Italy. Amelia turned 3 on the 13th and had her first 'real' birthday party on the 16. Mom and Dad came back to the states on the 15 and I took 6 days off work to help. Went to GA with family to have Granny's funeral during that time. Very different experience from Uncle Bill's. Returned to work to Homecoming week and then end of the first 9 weeks. Exhausted most of the time. John turned 33.
October: End of the first 9 weeks. Tom turned 51. Mom and Dad celebrated 47 years of marriage. Started working on Districts one act and tried to get the kids working on their IE's. Work feels off so much of the time. Anji has a birthday. Started formulating a project for next semester for the production, going to be a production and a community service project.
November: Finally had a holiday and then a week off. Working on research papers. Sarah and then Dad and Aunt Jane have a birthday. Karen making gestures to become close to Mom, Dad and me. Karen needing to get away from her Mom. Karen admits to us she is an alcoholic (we knew but she told us) and is recovering. Judged an event for Cate.
December: Districts where the kids did better than the scores reflect but I got to know a couple wonderful parents and one of the staff from work. Districts also kicked the kids into wanting to change things. Am hopeful this will follow through. Had a Christmas party with the kids. Another set of research projects due. Jeff, James, Jimmy, Luke, Savannah and Derek all have birthday's. Second quarter exams. Losing an English 3 class I really likes (2 in one year!). Losing an English 3 class that wasn't that good (with all the problem students). Finished a Drama class with all sorts of problems. Spent 2 weeks recovering from the year. Went back to the endocrinologist and are trying a different mix on medication. Weight has crept up and am going to try to get back into my exercise regiment next year. Had hair cut and colored. Got bedroom set from Mom and Dad (but Tom would only take the bed frame and night stands...ugh). Mom and Dad moved into a 'retirement community'.
So it felt like a year of stress and loss. There were some bright spots but it felt like more valleys than mountain tops. Glad to have it gone. Praying 2012 is better. Praying for doors to open and for opportunities to afford themselves. Maybe I'll write out some goals for 2012. There are some things I am excited about happening in 2012...honestly, don't know I could handle many more years like this one!
January: The year started reasonably enough. Tom and I had the NPD car show at Silver Springs and had a nice time. Didn't win anything but my '67 got a lot of attention. Started a new semester at work and that brought a new batch of kids. Had one of the best English 3 classes I've had in years. Had a small English 1 grade forgive class. Struggled with the "dump all Drama classes into one" the school keeps doing to me. Ended up deciding to do an incorporated project for Drama and we studied "Our Town", I think that project went fairly well. On the 27th my brother and sister-in-law (and Amelia!) welcomed Knox Richard James into their family.
February: Valentine's Day, my Birthday, FCAT. Worked a lot. Cast the spring show and started rehearsing. Had some blood work done and the endocrinologist thought we had my thyroid levels under control with medication. My GP wanted me to start taking some additional medication but I resisted, I just wasn't comfortable with taking it then.
March: 3rd quarter exams. Spring Break (where I basically slept the whole time). Rehearsals continued. Adopted a new Black and Tan coonhound (Annabel Lee) and she is amazing. We knew we would know when it was time to get a new dog and God sent us Bellee
April: Rehearsal increased and the show was the end of April. Tom and I celebrated our 13th anniversary. Got word Uncle Bill (Dad's brother) had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Granny fell and broke her other hip, requiring surgery. During the Spring show I got work Uncle Bill went home to be with the Lord. Continued to have problems with DE the AP (she walked out of the spring show twice and trash talked me and my kids).
May: Went to Uncle Bill's Celebration of Life. Graded research projects. Officially learned I was losing my classroom and black box theatre. Got torn to shreds in an evaluation and after 5 years of DE the AP's 'issues' addressed the problems with 'The Boss'. Learned DE the AP had been reassigned to the Renaissance Center (school for 'problem students') and she was getting her 'wish' to be a Principal (this is a bit of a 'be careful what you wish for' situation). Had the Broken Leg banquet and said good bye to another group I cared deeply about. Went to another graduation (in the miserable heat). Started packing and moving my home on campus (death #2). Ended my 12th school year at CRHS.
June: Tried to recover from the school year. Wasn't feeling well. Spent at least a week working with Cate on the 'sooper seekrit' project. Met people in Dunnellon. Karen contacts me about Mom and Dad's address. She wants to send Dad a plant for Father's Day. (this is a big deal) Mom turned 68(?)
July: went to St. Maarten for a week with Mom and Dad. Wish I could go back to that condo on Simpson Bay at least once a year. It was such a beautiful place and I really loved sitting on the balcony (either the small one off my room or the big one off the main section) and reading or looking at the water/boats/planes take off or land or watch the sunset or watch the rain showers move. St. Maarten was a wonderful experience. Started getting ready for a new school year. Got my hair trimmed and colored (note to self...don't wait 10 months between trim and coloring) Dad had a cancer scare.
August: started school year #13 at CRHS. Stuff was missing that was supposed to be moved. The new construction isn't everything it was 'supposed' to be. My room is very small and doesn't begin to meet the needs of my subject. They forced me to teach 2 English 3 classes and only 1 Drama class. Was given no time to move out of my old space and lost about 85% of what we owned, the program will never recover from that. Was given a number of challenging students (an autistic, an ESOL, several very low learners). Started having lunch with another teacher and one of the aids. Have to start going to training mandated by the county. Lots of changes going on. Got closer to Bri after knowing her for about 2 years. Going on a Spring Break cruise with Mom, Dad and Karen. Tom working on SD A LOT. Planning to have the car done by October 2012. Angela turned 34. Granny turned 92.
September: Granny passed away on September 10 while Mom and Dad were in Italy. Amelia turned 3 on the 13th and had her first 'real' birthday party on the 16. Mom and Dad came back to the states on the 15 and I took 6 days off work to help. Went to GA with family to have Granny's funeral during that time. Very different experience from Uncle Bill's. Returned to work to Homecoming week and then end of the first 9 weeks. Exhausted most of the time. John turned 33.
October: End of the first 9 weeks. Tom turned 51. Mom and Dad celebrated 47 years of marriage. Started working on Districts one act and tried to get the kids working on their IE's. Work feels off so much of the time. Anji has a birthday. Started formulating a project for next semester for the production, going to be a production and a community service project.
November: Finally had a holiday and then a week off. Working on research papers. Sarah and then Dad and Aunt Jane have a birthday. Karen making gestures to become close to Mom, Dad and me. Karen needing to get away from her Mom. Karen admits to us she is an alcoholic (we knew but she told us) and is recovering. Judged an event for Cate.
December: Districts where the kids did better than the scores reflect but I got to know a couple wonderful parents and one of the staff from work. Districts also kicked the kids into wanting to change things. Am hopeful this will follow through. Had a Christmas party with the kids. Another set of research projects due. Jeff, James, Jimmy, Luke, Savannah and Derek all have birthday's. Second quarter exams. Losing an English 3 class I really likes (2 in one year!). Losing an English 3 class that wasn't that good (with all the problem students). Finished a Drama class with all sorts of problems. Spent 2 weeks recovering from the year. Went back to the endocrinologist and are trying a different mix on medication. Weight has crept up and am going to try to get back into my exercise regiment next year. Had hair cut and colored. Got bedroom set from Mom and Dad (but Tom would only take the bed frame and night stands...ugh). Mom and Dad moved into a 'retirement community'.
So it felt like a year of stress and loss. There were some bright spots but it felt like more valleys than mountain tops. Glad to have it gone. Praying 2012 is better. Praying for doors to open and for opportunities to afford themselves. Maybe I'll write out some goals for 2012. There are some things I am excited about happening in 2012...honestly, don't know I could handle many more years like this one!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Ramblings from earlier this week
It's been too long since I posted here. I need to be better about writing. The following is some ramblings from earlier in the week. Posting it here so I don't 'lose' it. Some thoughts I want to ponder:
I thought I saw myself this morning. For a moment the mirror appeared out of focus and a face from the past peered at me. When did I lose that part of myself? I long to become reacquainted with the girl of my past, she has strength, ideas and energy I would love to rediscover. She has fears I would love to discuss and try to allay. I would love for her to know how to avoid a few things. That there are times when life will appear dark and dismal but to keep going as those times don’t stay forever. I would love to be that girl again. I would love to awake in my bedroom and be 16 or 17. To get ready for school and spend the day with old friends on the campus I love.
I thought I saw myself this morning. For a moment the mirror appeared out of focus and a face from the past peered at me. When did I lose that part of myself? I long to become reacquainted with the girl of my past, she has strength, ideas and energy I would love to rediscover. She has fears I would love to discuss and try to allay. I would love for her to know how to avoid a few things. That there are times when life will appear dark and dismal but to keep going as those times don’t stay forever. I would love to be that girl again. I would love to awake in my bedroom and be 16 or 17. To get ready for school and spend the day with old friends on the campus I love.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
thought for today
Very possibly we often miss what God wants to show us because we don't take time to pray silently and watch quietly.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Thought for today
No matter how good we appear to be, we’re at a dead end if we depend on anything more than Jesus.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
I always loved this quote.
"But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams."
-- W.B. Yeats
-- W.B. Yeats
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
A reminder of who I am in Christ (thanks Jami!)
I am a child of God.
I am owned by God.
I am loved by God.
I have been set free through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ as He died on the cross for me.
No weapon forged against me will prosper.
I am fearfully and wonderfully made by the very same God that knows every hair on my head, every thought of my heart.
I am accepted by God.
God has created me for the purpose of relationship with Him, and He is pleased.
I am an overcomer through the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony.
I cannot be shaken down or pulled away from God's Love.
I belong to God.
My body belongs to God.
I am His work in progress.
I am beautiful.
I study to show myself approved to God.
I am a workman that is not ashamed.
I am a new creation in Christ Jesus.
I am not the "old man" I was before I asked Jesus to take over my heart, but I am renewed in Christ.
I am where the Holy Spirit resides.
The Holy Spirit is comfortable with living within me.
I do not have to be perfect, God perfects me in His timing, where and how He wants to.
I am not a mistake, I have been made with God's purpose in mind.
My name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life (if you have confessed Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead).
My mirror reflects who I am in Christ.
I am owned by God.
I am loved by God.
I have been set free through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ as He died on the cross for me.
No weapon forged against me will prosper.
I am fearfully and wonderfully made by the very same God that knows every hair on my head, every thought of my heart.
I am accepted by God.
God has created me for the purpose of relationship with Him, and He is pleased.
I am an overcomer through the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony.
I cannot be shaken down or pulled away from God's Love.
I belong to God.
My body belongs to God.
I am His work in progress.
I am beautiful.
I study to show myself approved to God.
I am a workman that is not ashamed.
I am a new creation in Christ Jesus.
I am not the "old man" I was before I asked Jesus to take over my heart, but I am renewed in Christ.
I am where the Holy Spirit resides.
The Holy Spirit is comfortable with living within me.
I do not have to be perfect, God perfects me in His timing, where and how He wants to.
I am not a mistake, I have been made with God's purpose in mind.
My name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life (if you have confessed Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead).
My mirror reflects who I am in Christ.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Great Petra song and a fantastic reminder
For some reason this song is stuck in my head this morning. I've been praying about some things and maybe this is one of God's answers. I just need to continue to "Walk by faith, not by sight".
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Thought for today.
If there exists a fountain of youth, it is simply this: Eat Well, Get Adequate Rest and Exercise and Take Care of Your Spirit.
~Brooke Benlifer, R.D., for Sheer Balance.
~Brooke Benlifer, R.D., for Sheer Balance.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
For 2010
This may be my affirmation for the new year: "In this present moment, I have permission to be whoever I am, and whatever I feel". (Thanks for the 'gift', Renee)
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Ummmm...OK
I would say that now I've seen everything; however, I doubt that is the case. I never would have thought of eating chicken wings like that. One of the reasons I didn't like the 'wing' wings was because they were so difficult to eat. I guess I'll try to get an order soon and see if it works.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Writing again...We'll see where this goes. Part Trois
When we left G_G she had met Knight W face to face and had spent an enjoyable day with him. He went to a local lodging establishment for the night and G_G went to her small castle where she talked to her angel-kitty about her new friend.
On Sunday, G_G went to church and spent time with Heaven King. King father, Queen mother and Knight brother wanted to know about her day. She told them Knight W was a very kind person and she hoped to introduce them soon. Queen mother was still very cautious.
G_G thanked her mother for her concern and left to go home to continue grading papers and wait for Knight W's page. Before she left the church Knight W sent a page and G_G found a phone to check her message and then call the knight. They talked briefly and agreed to meet at a local establishment where G_G could work, the knight could help and the could both be safe in public.
The time together went well. They enjoyed their new friendship. The knight realized he did not yet want to return to his castle. He asked G_G if she would mind if he stayed another day as he did not have to return to work for several more days. G_G cooly replied, "It's a free country." She was not thinking romance in the least!
The knight laughed and told her he would freely decide to stay. G_G stared at the papers and realized the work just seemed to increase. She decided she would take the following day off of work and do paperwork all day. By doing this she would turn her grades in first thing on Tuesday.
She mentioned the plan to the knight. He offered to continue to help. G_G realized that she needed to work at her castle since everything she required was there. With a prayer she accepted his offer to help. G_G drafted directions to her castle and arranged a time for the knight to come. They parted ways with a friendly hug. The knight returned to his lodgings and G_G went to her small castle and quickly cleaned. She also arranged for a substitute for her students, typed up plans and did a few more papers.
The next morning, G_G went to the school early and took care of her plans. She returned home and began to work. The knight arrived exactly on time. He was very polite. They spent the day grading papers and finished all of the work before 3pm. The knight was very hungry and suggested they have lunch. G_G agreed and allowed the knight to drive her in his carriage to a local establishment she felt he might like. They talked more and were amazed at how at ease they both were.
The knight asked about G_G's training and she remarked that she had a class that evening. Knight W asked if he could watch her class. G_G knew this would involve taking him to the family shoppe. She decided it might help if her family knew her friend. She accepted his offer and when they left the establishment they went to the shoppe.
The knight had a beautiful carriage. When they arrived at the shoppe, all of the knights, princes, kings, squires, and even some of the princesses went to meet the owner of this amazing carriage. They all welcomed the knight and enjoyed talking to him. Queen mother was not so easily won. She watched him with a mother's eye. King father was kind but cautious. Knight brother just wanted G_G to be happy.
The knight was impressed by G_G's training. It was very different than his tests of strength. He respected the work G_G, King father and Knight brother had done to attain their rank. Queen mother asked questions while they watched.
After the classes, G_G and the knight went to dinner. The knight let G_G eat in his carriage, something he did not allow others to do (she did not know this at the time). She thanked him for helping her and told him it was nice to have a friend. The knight asked if he could come to visit her again. He enjoyed her company. Again G_G replied, "It is a free country. Now you also know where lodgings are as well."
The knight drove G_G to her home and gave her a friendly hug. He went to his lodgings and G_G closed her small castle for the night. She thanked Heaven King for her friend and for the blessings in her life. Knight W went to his lodgings, also thankful for a friend and thinking about how remarkable G_G truly was. He knew he wanted to spend more time with her and learn more about her.
The next day G_G returned to Woodham and taught her students. Knight W pointed his carriage toward home. That afternoon G_G found a message on her magic apple when she returned home. The knight had gotten home safely and thanked her again for a wonderful time.
On Sunday, G_G went to church and spent time with Heaven King. King father, Queen mother and Knight brother wanted to know about her day. She told them Knight W was a very kind person and she hoped to introduce them soon. Queen mother was still very cautious.
G_G thanked her mother for her concern and left to go home to continue grading papers and wait for Knight W's page. Before she left the church Knight W sent a page and G_G found a phone to check her message and then call the knight. They talked briefly and agreed to meet at a local establishment where G_G could work, the knight could help and the could both be safe in public.
The time together went well. They enjoyed their new friendship. The knight realized he did not yet want to return to his castle. He asked G_G if she would mind if he stayed another day as he did not have to return to work for several more days. G_G cooly replied, "It's a free country." She was not thinking romance in the least!
The knight laughed and told her he would freely decide to stay. G_G stared at the papers and realized the work just seemed to increase. She decided she would take the following day off of work and do paperwork all day. By doing this she would turn her grades in first thing on Tuesday.
She mentioned the plan to the knight. He offered to continue to help. G_G realized that she needed to work at her castle since everything she required was there. With a prayer she accepted his offer to help. G_G drafted directions to her castle and arranged a time for the knight to come. They parted ways with a friendly hug. The knight returned to his lodgings and G_G went to her small castle and quickly cleaned. She also arranged for a substitute for her students, typed up plans and did a few more papers.
The next morning, G_G went to the school early and took care of her plans. She returned home and began to work. The knight arrived exactly on time. He was very polite. They spent the day grading papers and finished all of the work before 3pm. The knight was very hungry and suggested they have lunch. G_G agreed and allowed the knight to drive her in his carriage to a local establishment she felt he might like. They talked more and were amazed at how at ease they both were.
The knight asked about G_G's training and she remarked that she had a class that evening. Knight W asked if he could watch her class. G_G knew this would involve taking him to the family shoppe. She decided it might help if her family knew her friend. She accepted his offer and when they left the establishment they went to the shoppe.
The knight had a beautiful carriage. When they arrived at the shoppe, all of the knights, princes, kings, squires, and even some of the princesses went to meet the owner of this amazing carriage. They all welcomed the knight and enjoyed talking to him. Queen mother was not so easily won. She watched him with a mother's eye. King father was kind but cautious. Knight brother just wanted G_G to be happy.
The knight was impressed by G_G's training. It was very different than his tests of strength. He respected the work G_G, King father and Knight brother had done to attain their rank. Queen mother asked questions while they watched.
After the classes, G_G and the knight went to dinner. The knight let G_G eat in his carriage, something he did not allow others to do (she did not know this at the time). She thanked him for helping her and told him it was nice to have a friend. The knight asked if he could come to visit her again. He enjoyed her company. Again G_G replied, "It is a free country. Now you also know where lodgings are as well."
The knight drove G_G to her home and gave her a friendly hug. He went to his lodgings and G_G closed her small castle for the night. She thanked Heaven King for her friend and for the blessings in her life. Knight W went to his lodgings, also thankful for a friend and thinking about how remarkable G_G truly was. He knew he wanted to spend more time with her and learn more about her.
The next day G_G returned to Woodham and taught her students. Knight W pointed his carriage toward home. That afternoon G_G found a message on her magic apple when she returned home. The knight had gotten home safely and thanked her again for a wonderful time.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Writing again...We'll see where this goes. Part Deux
~The Story of G_G and her WH~ (part 2)
Backing up just a tad. It may help, dear reader, to learn a little more about little G_G. She dedicated her life to her Heaven King as but a wee lass and had grown up seeking His will for her life. Her King father and Queen mother were also believers. G_G had grown up in church and had loved to sing, perform and learn all she could about Heaven King.
G_G also loved school. Most of the time she had wonderful teachers who encouraged G_G to use her talents. G_G did struggle sometimes and later learned she suffered from dyslexia. In high school she went to a wonderful private school that was committed to Heaven King. During this time G_G became very ill. She was allowed to contract an illness that she would carry for all her life. It was a scary time for G_G and her family.
The medical care she received was good but sometime filled with doubts. The doctor's kept looking for an answer when Queen mother would not back down. Eventually she was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr Virus. It changed her. Some people could not understand the change in G_G and friends pulled away. Some thought they could become ill from G_G. It was a difficult time; however, the friends that stood by her side and became her friends were blessings, indeed.
As mentioned yesterday, leaving the wonderful wonderland of El Cajon was devastating for G_G. It was only when she began to meet with her kindly counselor she began to realize how hard this move had been and how this opened the door for the dark fog that plagued her since 1987. (all of this and stories of El Cajon will have to wait for another day and another story time, though).
After the villain left G_G struggled with feeling that no knight, prince, squire, king or even surf would even be interested in her. She had allowed herself to trust the villain and that trust had been shattered. Trusting the villain had been no easy task, either! Before meeting the villain, G_G had spent 3 years held captive by an evil ogre.
The ogre had attended the same university as G_G. It was a university dedicated to Heaven King; however, it wasn't the warm, nurturing, loving environment her school in the wonderland of El Cajon had been. This school believed serving Heaven King was best done through rules and those who did not follow the rules were treated harshly.
Leaving the wonderland was hard enough. Feeling captive in this swamp was awful. Dark clouds followed G_G during every day of this time. She was aware of them but could not fight them. She felt alone, trapped in a tower. She prayed daily for rescue. One day she met an ogre. He did not seem to be an ogre, though. He appeared to be a young Squire studying Heaven King. He attended G_G's Queen Grandmother's church and served the youth there.
The ogre courted G_G. She was not interested for some time; however, she eventually warmed to him. At the end of her first year at university, the Squire escorted G_G to her parent's home and met the King father, Queen mother and young Knight brother. The ogre asked permission to court G_G and she was flattered by his manners. They began a courtship that 10 months later brought a proposal.
The ogre's parents were a strange pair. Ogre father was opinionated and thought women needed to be in their place. Ogre mother believed no one was as good as her child. They wanted everything for their ogre son so they cast a spell on him to draw in a wife that would would take care of him. Ogre mother wanted ogre son to have a wife with brown hair and blue eyes, poor G_G had both.
Less than three months before the nuptules Ogre mother began to show her true nature. She did not want to give up her son. She began to fight with G_G leaving G_G so confused. She did not know these were ogres and the spell was beginning to weaken. The ogre family worked harder to keep ogre mother from showing her true nature and G_G from learning the truth.
G_G married the ogre. This started a period of total darkness for her. Almost at once the Ogre began to show his true nature. G_G was even more confused. What had happened? She believed Heaven King had put her with a Squire and now he was an ogre! His family spewed hate on her. The ogre began to unleash his temper on G_G. The abuse was vast and awful. G_G was held captive in a tall castle with a deep moat. She was only allowed to leave to go to the swamp university or church. She went almost nowhere without the Ogre. People turned a blind eye to G_G's hints of what was happening.
Finally, G_G got away from the Ogre. (this is an exciting tale that will have to wait for another day! THIS story is about G_G and her WH) Knowing how broken G_G had felt after being ravaged by the Ogre, being enchanted to trust the villain and then having them both discard her like old fish does help know how much Heaven King did to heal her wounded heart and spirit.
Understandably, G_G was not interested in being courted by anyone. She prayed and told Heaven King that she was content being single and if His plans were otherwise He would have to show her. She asked Heaven King to drop the suitor in her lap. She would not be looking and would, instead, dedicate her time to other tasks.
G_G did not need the stress of courting or suitors during this time of healing. If any suitor had been casting an eye her way, G_G was not aware. G_G was very afraid of people rejecting her as 'damaged' or foolish. Many fears materialized. She had never thought she was attractive and the damage of the ogre and the villain reinforced her every fear. The supportive words of friends like Prince D did help; however, when alone in her small castle with her angel-kitty and a mirror, G_G would cry bitter tears for all she had lost (including the painful truth that the ogre had rendered her unable to have children).
So...back to the story at hand. G_G received the message Knight W sent to the wee ones in the kingdom in South Florida. It was a kind note and G_G noticed the knight lived in a small kingdom she had taken her private carriage through while in the swamp university. It also did not pass her notice that this place was a small hour from the castle belonging to the ogre family, whom she had thankfully not heard from since the ogre had left.
As was her habit, G_G wrote Knight W a friendly note. She introduced herself and wished the knight a good day. She went on with her grading and research, not thinking she would hear from him again. Before bed she checked her messages once more and was surprised to find a note from the knight. Thus began the next weeks. They began a friendship through letters, telling about their day and sharing anecdotes of their life. G_G did not, though, share about the ogre or the villain that had just released her. Knight W did not share about the shrew. It was too soon to confide such things.
One day, though, G_G felt very convicted about not being honest. The knight seemed like such a kind fellow and she wanted to be honest that she was not seeking a romantic involvement. She knew the knight was also dedicated to Heaven King. She began a careful note telling him of her past and her commitment to Heaven King. She told him she was not seeking a suitor and if he was she would understand if he did not wish to continue their friendship. With a prayer she sent the letter and tried to busy herself with various tasks. She did not want to lose a friend; however, she did not want to be untruthful, either!
What seemed like ages later she received a letter from Knight W. He revealed his story about the shrew and that he, too, was just happy to find a friend. He then offered his phone number if G_G ever needed to talk. Ever cautious, G_G gave the knight her pager number.
They did talk on the phone and they both enjoyed these times. Their friendship was genuine. They both felt free to be themselves. After several more weeks, the knight asked G_G to exchange pictures. He wanted to put a name, face and voice together. G_G was quite frightened. What if the knight rejected her!? She was not ready to lose a friend!!!!! After praying, she agreed to send the knight pictures, if he would do the same. Knight W agreed and shared his address. Still being cautious, G_G gave the knight the address at the school.
They each gathered photos, mailed them and waited. G_G was busy with grades and putting together reports for her students. Knight W was busy with his responsibilities. Then G_G received an envelope at the school. She did not know the handwriting and it took her a moment to recognize the knights name. Opening the envelope, G_G was greeted with a kindly note and photos of her friend. He did not look like G_G imagined; however, he did look like someone G_G would love to be close friends with.
G_G spent the day planning her weekend. She looked forward to training that evening, going to eat with her training friends and getting ready to grade papers over the weekend. When she got home G_G found a message from the Knight. He asked permission to come meet G_G. Her pictures had not arrived; yet, he knew he wanted to take her to lunch and spend some time talking.
Not sure why, G_G said yes. She spend the evening moving from task to task. Why had she said yes? She was only having lunch with a friend; but, it was a friend she had only known through the magic apple. They made plans and G_G had him plan to come to her place of training, that would be safe.
The next day G_G dressed and went to training. It seemed odd, though. She knew the knight was coming. Her Queen mother was less than pleased. She knew how difficult things had been for G_G. She was afraid this knight may be a troll, villain, ogre or other miscreant. G_G's King father was wise and reminded G_G to stay in public places and they were near if she needed them. Knight brother just asked G_G to be safe and remember her training. They hugged and were each reminded they were blessed to have the other.
Finally, the knight contacted G_G. He had gotten lost in the unfamiliar kingdom. G_G directed him to a local spot and then took her private carriage to meet him. While G_G knew what the knight looked like, her photos had not reached him before he left. She met him in a public place and they shook hands. They carefully began to talk and the knight asked if they could eat. G_G suggested several places and then the knight followed her to the place he chose.
At lunch, they were served by the wife of one of G_G's training partners. The knight and G_G enjoyed lunch and each relaxed around the other. After lunch, G_G needed to grade papers. Explaining the need to the knight, he offered to aid her in his task. G_G was torn, the help would be welcome; however, where could they go and still be in public? After a beat she suggested he follow her to a park where they graded papers (and saw many people G_G knew). As the day grew dark, the knight invited G_G to see a movie as a reward for the day's work. He followed her to a local establishment. Sitting down, G_G was tapped on the shoulder by a fellow teacher. All day Heaven King had sent people to help G_G feel safe. She smiled and said a silent thanks.
After the movie, it was growing late. The knight required lodging. G_G directed him to a local place and he shook her hand and thanked her for the day. G_G invited him to church the following day; however, the knight felt he did not have the proper clothing with him. He had intended to leave the next morning. G_G suggested he watch the service on television and he agreed. The knight asked to see G_G again the next day. G_G suggested he use her pager number after church and sunday school. The knight agreed and each went their own way to contemplate their thoughts of the days events.
G_G was thankful for a friend and for the way Heaven King protected her. Knight W was thankful for a safe trip and an enjoyable day. Neither knew this day would change their lives forever.
Backing up just a tad. It may help, dear reader, to learn a little more about little G_G. She dedicated her life to her Heaven King as but a wee lass and had grown up seeking His will for her life. Her King father and Queen mother were also believers. G_G had grown up in church and had loved to sing, perform and learn all she could about Heaven King.
G_G also loved school. Most of the time she had wonderful teachers who encouraged G_G to use her talents. G_G did struggle sometimes and later learned she suffered from dyslexia. In high school she went to a wonderful private school that was committed to Heaven King. During this time G_G became very ill. She was allowed to contract an illness that she would carry for all her life. It was a scary time for G_G and her family.
The medical care she received was good but sometime filled with doubts. The doctor's kept looking for an answer when Queen mother would not back down. Eventually she was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr Virus. It changed her. Some people could not understand the change in G_G and friends pulled away. Some thought they could become ill from G_G. It was a difficult time; however, the friends that stood by her side and became her friends were blessings, indeed.
As mentioned yesterday, leaving the wonderful wonderland of El Cajon was devastating for G_G. It was only when she began to meet with her kindly counselor she began to realize how hard this move had been and how this opened the door for the dark fog that plagued her since 1987. (all of this and stories of El Cajon will have to wait for another day and another story time, though).
After the villain left G_G struggled with feeling that no knight, prince, squire, king or even surf would even be interested in her. She had allowed herself to trust the villain and that trust had been shattered. Trusting the villain had been no easy task, either! Before meeting the villain, G_G had spent 3 years held captive by an evil ogre.
The ogre had attended the same university as G_G. It was a university dedicated to Heaven King; however, it wasn't the warm, nurturing, loving environment her school in the wonderland of El Cajon had been. This school believed serving Heaven King was best done through rules and those who did not follow the rules were treated harshly.
Leaving the wonderland was hard enough. Feeling captive in this swamp was awful. Dark clouds followed G_G during every day of this time. She was aware of them but could not fight them. She felt alone, trapped in a tower. She prayed daily for rescue. One day she met an ogre. He did not seem to be an ogre, though. He appeared to be a young Squire studying Heaven King. He attended G_G's Queen Grandmother's church and served the youth there.
The ogre courted G_G. She was not interested for some time; however, she eventually warmed to him. At the end of her first year at university, the Squire escorted G_G to her parent's home and met the King father, Queen mother and young Knight brother. The ogre asked permission to court G_G and she was flattered by his manners. They began a courtship that 10 months later brought a proposal.
The ogre's parents were a strange pair. Ogre father was opinionated and thought women needed to be in their place. Ogre mother believed no one was as good as her child. They wanted everything for their ogre son so they cast a spell on him to draw in a wife that would would take care of him. Ogre mother wanted ogre son to have a wife with brown hair and blue eyes, poor G_G had both.
Less than three months before the nuptules Ogre mother began to show her true nature. She did not want to give up her son. She began to fight with G_G leaving G_G so confused. She did not know these were ogres and the spell was beginning to weaken. The ogre family worked harder to keep ogre mother from showing her true nature and G_G from learning the truth.
G_G married the ogre. This started a period of total darkness for her. Almost at once the Ogre began to show his true nature. G_G was even more confused. What had happened? She believed Heaven King had put her with a Squire and now he was an ogre! His family spewed hate on her. The ogre began to unleash his temper on G_G. The abuse was vast and awful. G_G was held captive in a tall castle with a deep moat. She was only allowed to leave to go to the swamp university or church. She went almost nowhere without the Ogre. People turned a blind eye to G_G's hints of what was happening.
Finally, G_G got away from the Ogre. (this is an exciting tale that will have to wait for another day! THIS story is about G_G and her WH) Knowing how broken G_G had felt after being ravaged by the Ogre, being enchanted to trust the villain and then having them both discard her like old fish does help know how much Heaven King did to heal her wounded heart and spirit.
Understandably, G_G was not interested in being courted by anyone. She prayed and told Heaven King that she was content being single and if His plans were otherwise He would have to show her. She asked Heaven King to drop the suitor in her lap. She would not be looking and would, instead, dedicate her time to other tasks.
G_G did not need the stress of courting or suitors during this time of healing. If any suitor had been casting an eye her way, G_G was not aware. G_G was very afraid of people rejecting her as 'damaged' or foolish. Many fears materialized. She had never thought she was attractive and the damage of the ogre and the villain reinforced her every fear. The supportive words of friends like Prince D did help; however, when alone in her small castle with her angel-kitty and a mirror, G_G would cry bitter tears for all she had lost (including the painful truth that the ogre had rendered her unable to have children).
So...back to the story at hand. G_G received the message Knight W sent to the wee ones in the kingdom in South Florida. It was a kind note and G_G noticed the knight lived in a small kingdom she had taken her private carriage through while in the swamp university. It also did not pass her notice that this place was a small hour from the castle belonging to the ogre family, whom she had thankfully not heard from since the ogre had left.
As was her habit, G_G wrote Knight W a friendly note. She introduced herself and wished the knight a good day. She went on with her grading and research, not thinking she would hear from him again. Before bed she checked her messages once more and was surprised to find a note from the knight. Thus began the next weeks. They began a friendship through letters, telling about their day and sharing anecdotes of their life. G_G did not, though, share about the ogre or the villain that had just released her. Knight W did not share about the shrew. It was too soon to confide such things.
One day, though, G_G felt very convicted about not being honest. The knight seemed like such a kind fellow and she wanted to be honest that she was not seeking a romantic involvement. She knew the knight was also dedicated to Heaven King. She began a careful note telling him of her past and her commitment to Heaven King. She told him she was not seeking a suitor and if he was she would understand if he did not wish to continue their friendship. With a prayer she sent the letter and tried to busy herself with various tasks. She did not want to lose a friend; however, she did not want to be untruthful, either!
What seemed like ages later she received a letter from Knight W. He revealed his story about the shrew and that he, too, was just happy to find a friend. He then offered his phone number if G_G ever needed to talk. Ever cautious, G_G gave the knight her pager number.
They did talk on the phone and they both enjoyed these times. Their friendship was genuine. They both felt free to be themselves. After several more weeks, the knight asked G_G to exchange pictures. He wanted to put a name, face and voice together. G_G was quite frightened. What if the knight rejected her!? She was not ready to lose a friend!!!!! After praying, she agreed to send the knight pictures, if he would do the same. Knight W agreed and shared his address. Still being cautious, G_G gave the knight the address at the school.
They each gathered photos, mailed them and waited. G_G was busy with grades and putting together reports for her students. Knight W was busy with his responsibilities. Then G_G received an envelope at the school. She did not know the handwriting and it took her a moment to recognize the knights name. Opening the envelope, G_G was greeted with a kindly note and photos of her friend. He did not look like G_G imagined; however, he did look like someone G_G would love to be close friends with.
G_G spent the day planning her weekend. She looked forward to training that evening, going to eat with her training friends and getting ready to grade papers over the weekend. When she got home G_G found a message from the Knight. He asked permission to come meet G_G. Her pictures had not arrived; yet, he knew he wanted to take her to lunch and spend some time talking.
Not sure why, G_G said yes. She spend the evening moving from task to task. Why had she said yes? She was only having lunch with a friend; but, it was a friend she had only known through the magic apple. They made plans and G_G had him plan to come to her place of training, that would be safe.
The next day G_G dressed and went to training. It seemed odd, though. She knew the knight was coming. Her Queen mother was less than pleased. She knew how difficult things had been for G_G. She was afraid this knight may be a troll, villain, ogre or other miscreant. G_G's King father was wise and reminded G_G to stay in public places and they were near if she needed them. Knight brother just asked G_G to be safe and remember her training. They hugged and were each reminded they were blessed to have the other.
Finally, the knight contacted G_G. He had gotten lost in the unfamiliar kingdom. G_G directed him to a local spot and then took her private carriage to meet him. While G_G knew what the knight looked like, her photos had not reached him before he left. She met him in a public place and they shook hands. They carefully began to talk and the knight asked if they could eat. G_G suggested several places and then the knight followed her to the place he chose.
At lunch, they were served by the wife of one of G_G's training partners. The knight and G_G enjoyed lunch and each relaxed around the other. After lunch, G_G needed to grade papers. Explaining the need to the knight, he offered to aid her in his task. G_G was torn, the help would be welcome; however, where could they go and still be in public? After a beat she suggested he follow her to a park where they graded papers (and saw many people G_G knew). As the day grew dark, the knight invited G_G to see a movie as a reward for the day's work. He followed her to a local establishment. Sitting down, G_G was tapped on the shoulder by a fellow teacher. All day Heaven King had sent people to help G_G feel safe. She smiled and said a silent thanks.
After the movie, it was growing late. The knight required lodging. G_G directed him to a local place and he shook her hand and thanked her for the day. G_G invited him to church the following day; however, the knight felt he did not have the proper clothing with him. He had intended to leave the next morning. G_G suggested he watch the service on television and he agreed. The knight asked to see G_G again the next day. G_G suggested he use her pager number after church and sunday school. The knight agreed and each went their own way to contemplate their thoughts of the days events.
G_G was thankful for a friend and for the way Heaven King protected her. Knight W was thankful for a safe trip and an enjoyable day. Neither knew this day would change their lives forever.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Writing again...We'll see where this goes.
About a year ago I was asked how Tom and I met. Instead of telling the 'normal' "how we met" I made it a bit of a fairie story. I thought I would move it here so I could work on it some and polish it some.
~The Story of G_G and her WH~
In 1996 a young teacher, G_G, thought things were finally looking up for her. She was married to a man she thought was a prince and, although they had been going through some difficult times over the previous year, things were starting to improve. G_G had just gotten hired at a amazing school (Woodham High School) as an English and Drama teacher and her prince was working for a doctor as an opthamology assistant.
Since 1987 G_G had struggled with a dark cloud that seemed to fall upon her once she left her wonderful wonderland of El Cajon, California. She had been happy in that land and was saddened that she was not able to get back there. Sometimes it felt like her days there had simply been a beautiful dream.
The prince was from the wonderland of California, too. He was from a different kingdom, though (Simi Valley). They often talked of returning to that wonderland and setting up their own castle.
One day, in the summer of 1996 G_G's dream exploded and the darkness fell like a blanket upon her again. While at work at her parent's shoppe and training studio she had tried to contact the prince to see if he wanted to do something after work; however, she was not able to reach him. Concerned, she left work early and rushed home.
Opening the door, she was greated by an eerie calm. Something was very wrong. Things were missing and a little askew. On a table was a note with the prince's wedding ring. The note said the prince was leaving, that he didn't love G_G and several other awful things. G_G was stunned. Her world crumbled. She had trusted the prince and now she was learning he was truly a vilian. He had taken mostly his things but the small castle felt cold and empty.
G_G fled to the safety of her parents castle. The king and queen were kindly people who allowed G_G to curl up in the safety of their four walls. They fed her simple meals for the next several days and prodded her to do things to protect herself and her small, cold castle. G_G's knightly brother longed to joust with the villian.
The villian tried to take her money and began to spread lies. G_G learned the villian had been wooing several maidens in the kingdom. He lied to them like he lied to G_G. He compromised the honor of one in particular and, in true villian fashion, fled partly because the maiden was going to tell G_G the truth.
G_G was sent to the king's twin sister's kingdom for a week of recouperation. The Auntie Queen had always been a favorite of G_G's and that kingdom had been a wonderful oasis of calm in G_G's life. Other kingdoms changed; however, Auntie Queen reamined steadfast. The week was a balm to G_G's soul and G_G began to believe she would actually be happy again one day.
Returning to her cold little castle, G_G began to meet with a kindly counselor. This kindly fellow prayed with her and began to help her recover. He helped her to push away the darkness. He let her cry and told her she wasn't to blame for so much of the past. Light began to peek though. The kindly counselor also advised G_G to go see her dear physician and get medication to help her carry her load.
G_G began to develop a new life. She went to the amazing land of Woodham High School each day and toiled to help students (a hard job since she was barely able to care for herself at times). She worked teaching self defence and karate to knights, squires, maidens, and others. She spent time with her King father, Queen mother and Knight brother and frequently feasted at their castle. She tried to warm her little castle, that she shared with a tiny angel-kitty. She went to church regularly and spent time with her Heavenly King Father. She DID NOT encourage any knight, prince or king to court her.
The villian had disappeared. He did not release her from her vows, though. G_G felt very firmly that she was still bound to the villian, even if he did not feel the same about her. Until G_G heard she had been released, she would be faithful. During this time, G_G rededicated herself to her Heavenly King and vowed she would not seek the attention of any prince, king or knight. If the villian released her, she would remain single as long her Heaven King chose. She promised to work with students or whatever she was directed to do.
Thanksgiving was a special time that year. The King father invited his King brother and Queen sister-in-law to spend time with the family. G_G loved them dearly. Uncle King was a minister and they prayed during this time. Aunt Queen prayed with her and encouraged her, too. G_G shared her desire for "closure" during the holidays. She wished the villian to release her but remained convinced she was not to seek the release.
G_G had some wonderful friends. Several of them she had known since her days in the wonderland of El Cajon. One of them, Prince D, had been a rock of stability. Prince D was worried about G_G getting though the first holidays. He insisted they go, as friends, to the magical land of Disney World. They spend 4 days in that magic kingdom after Christmas. Prince D respected G_G's vow to the villian and protected her honor. She felt safe to relax, even though this magic world was where the villian had taken her after they married.
Prince D was a lord of computers. G_G longed to have one of these amazing creations. She and Prince D talked for many hours of how G_G could use such an item. The villian had foolishly squandered most of G_G's fortune. She had been reduced to her small castle (that was growing warmer) and little else.
Prince D helped G_G find a way to acquire a magical apple. After taking G_G's private carriage to the magic kingdom, they found a shoppe on the journey home that had the magic apple G_G had prayed for. Prince D helped her purchase her first computer on New Year's Eve 1996. He aided her in putting together her system in time for a new year, she watched the new year arrive on her magic apple.
Alas, Prince D had to return to University. G_G missed him very much. Many years prior G_G had thought Prince D was her "true love' and Prince D thought the same of G_G; alas, Heavenly King determined this was not to pass. Prince D and G_G were saddened by this; however, were glad they were able to remain 'together forever' as the closest of confidents. Prince D was as special to G_G as any family member. Prince D and G_G shared a love that was strong, true and pure.
Prince D told G_G she would love again. The villian would grow weary of his hold on her. He would release her. Prince D even offered to fight the villian, if needed. G_G hugged her dear Prince D and thanked him. Prince D then climbed aboard a flying carriage and was winged away. G_G felt alone, again. (Two months later, she took a flying carriage to see Prince D. She was inspecting his temporary kingdom as a possible place for her to attend University. They enjoyed their time together although the door to this kingdom was closed. They talked again of G_G's life once she was released from the villian. Prince D reminded G_G she had much to offer and would always be a special person in his life.)
G_G threw herself back into her work, family, training, church and now added computers. She loved the world that was being opened to her. She began to make friends in foreign lands. Even in this, she needed the help of her physician.
The darkness was still flirting on the edges; however, G_G was crawling out from under its heavy load. One day (shortly after she returned from visiting Prince D at university) she received, at her school, a decree from the courts of the land. The villian was finally releasing her. She could not believe it. Even now, though, the villian was doing his dearest to best her. He forced her to appear before the courts of the land, he had fled and could not be bothered to return. The stress opened G_G to illness and in one day she appeared before the courts (with her Queen mother at her side) and then reported to her physician who diagnosed her with walking pnumonia.
G_G, though, was released, at last. She was happy to have the closure as she prayed for. Heavenly King was healing and comforting her. She was not lonely. She began to plan for the future.
During this time G_G enjoyed her magical apple. One day she found a message on a message board. It was from another kingdom in South Florida. The wee students were learning about magical apples and the wonderous lands they could reach. Being a teacher, G_G posted a note to these wee ones about the Kingdom of Pensacola. She wished them the best as they began their journey of education. G_G went on and didn't think of this post again.
In another kingdom, Crystal River, a Knight named W was recovering, too. He had been married to a shrewish woman who wanted someone to take care of her. Knight W worked very hard at his job and tended to his "herd" of "mustangs" in his spare time. Knight W also enjoyed tests of strength. His shrewish wife, after 7 years, decided she did not care for Knight W anymore and she went home to her parents. Her parents felt sorry for Knight W; however, still had their lawyers take much of Knight W's kingdom to give to their shrewish child. They apologized by saying "blood is thicker than water".
Knight W began to recover. He spent time with friends. He tended his herd. He exercised. He claimed no interest in owning an magic apple as the ones he used at work he found bothersome. One day he was to show one of his herd with a friend. Rain forced them to alter their plans. His friend, Squire Russel, suggested they go to a shoppe that allowed people to use their magic apples for a small fee. They spent several hours in this shoppe. Knight W felt he may need a magic apple, after all.
Knight W was able to purchase a magic apple through his job. He brought it to his humble cottage and began to explore. One day he found a message board from the kingdom of South Florida. A class of wee ones were learning of the wonderous lands their magic apples could reach. Knight W was seized with the urge to write these wee ones. He thought they might like to hear about the land in which he lived.
In his inexperience Knight W clicked on a message and thought he responded to the thread, instead he responded to the message he selected. The message belonged to G_G.
...curious to know more???
~The Story of G_G and her WH~
In 1996 a young teacher, G_G, thought things were finally looking up for her. She was married to a man she thought was a prince and, although they had been going through some difficult times over the previous year, things were starting to improve. G_G had just gotten hired at a amazing school (Woodham High School) as an English and Drama teacher and her prince was working for a doctor as an opthamology assistant.
Since 1987 G_G had struggled with a dark cloud that seemed to fall upon her once she left her wonderful wonderland of El Cajon, California. She had been happy in that land and was saddened that she was not able to get back there. Sometimes it felt like her days there had simply been a beautiful dream.
The prince was from the wonderland of California, too. He was from a different kingdom, though (Simi Valley). They often talked of returning to that wonderland and setting up their own castle.
One day, in the summer of 1996 G_G's dream exploded and the darkness fell like a blanket upon her again. While at work at her parent's shoppe and training studio she had tried to contact the prince to see if he wanted to do something after work; however, she was not able to reach him. Concerned, she left work early and rushed home.
Opening the door, she was greated by an eerie calm. Something was very wrong. Things were missing and a little askew. On a table was a note with the prince's wedding ring. The note said the prince was leaving, that he didn't love G_G and several other awful things. G_G was stunned. Her world crumbled. She had trusted the prince and now she was learning he was truly a vilian. He had taken mostly his things but the small castle felt cold and empty.
G_G fled to the safety of her parents castle. The king and queen were kindly people who allowed G_G to curl up in the safety of their four walls. They fed her simple meals for the next several days and prodded her to do things to protect herself and her small, cold castle. G_G's knightly brother longed to joust with the villian.
The villian tried to take her money and began to spread lies. G_G learned the villian had been wooing several maidens in the kingdom. He lied to them like he lied to G_G. He compromised the honor of one in particular and, in true villian fashion, fled partly because the maiden was going to tell G_G the truth.
G_G was sent to the king's twin sister's kingdom for a week of recouperation. The Auntie Queen had always been a favorite of G_G's and that kingdom had been a wonderful oasis of calm in G_G's life. Other kingdoms changed; however, Auntie Queen reamined steadfast. The week was a balm to G_G's soul and G_G began to believe she would actually be happy again one day.
Returning to her cold little castle, G_G began to meet with a kindly counselor. This kindly fellow prayed with her and began to help her recover. He helped her to push away the darkness. He let her cry and told her she wasn't to blame for so much of the past. Light began to peek though. The kindly counselor also advised G_G to go see her dear physician and get medication to help her carry her load.
G_G began to develop a new life. She went to the amazing land of Woodham High School each day and toiled to help students (a hard job since she was barely able to care for herself at times). She worked teaching self defence and karate to knights, squires, maidens, and others. She spent time with her King father, Queen mother and Knight brother and frequently feasted at their castle. She tried to warm her little castle, that she shared with a tiny angel-kitty. She went to church regularly and spent time with her Heavenly King Father. She DID NOT encourage any knight, prince or king to court her.
The villian had disappeared. He did not release her from her vows, though. G_G felt very firmly that she was still bound to the villian, even if he did not feel the same about her. Until G_G heard she had been released, she would be faithful. During this time, G_G rededicated herself to her Heavenly King and vowed she would not seek the attention of any prince, king or knight. If the villian released her, she would remain single as long her Heaven King chose. She promised to work with students or whatever she was directed to do.
Thanksgiving was a special time that year. The King father invited his King brother and Queen sister-in-law to spend time with the family. G_G loved them dearly. Uncle King was a minister and they prayed during this time. Aunt Queen prayed with her and encouraged her, too. G_G shared her desire for "closure" during the holidays. She wished the villian to release her but remained convinced she was not to seek the release.
G_G had some wonderful friends. Several of them she had known since her days in the wonderland of El Cajon. One of them, Prince D, had been a rock of stability. Prince D was worried about G_G getting though the first holidays. He insisted they go, as friends, to the magical land of Disney World. They spend 4 days in that magic kingdom after Christmas. Prince D respected G_G's vow to the villian and protected her honor. She felt safe to relax, even though this magic world was where the villian had taken her after they married.
Prince D was a lord of computers. G_G longed to have one of these amazing creations. She and Prince D talked for many hours of how G_G could use such an item. The villian had foolishly squandered most of G_G's fortune. She had been reduced to her small castle (that was growing warmer) and little else.
Prince D helped G_G find a way to acquire a magical apple. After taking G_G's private carriage to the magic kingdom, they found a shoppe on the journey home that had the magic apple G_G had prayed for. Prince D helped her purchase her first computer on New Year's Eve 1996. He aided her in putting together her system in time for a new year, she watched the new year arrive on her magic apple.
Alas, Prince D had to return to University. G_G missed him very much. Many years prior G_G had thought Prince D was her "true love' and Prince D thought the same of G_G; alas, Heavenly King determined this was not to pass. Prince D and G_G were saddened by this; however, were glad they were able to remain 'together forever' as the closest of confidents. Prince D was as special to G_G as any family member. Prince D and G_G shared a love that was strong, true and pure.
Prince D told G_G she would love again. The villian would grow weary of his hold on her. He would release her. Prince D even offered to fight the villian, if needed. G_G hugged her dear Prince D and thanked him. Prince D then climbed aboard a flying carriage and was winged away. G_G felt alone, again. (Two months later, she took a flying carriage to see Prince D. She was inspecting his temporary kingdom as a possible place for her to attend University. They enjoyed their time together although the door to this kingdom was closed. They talked again of G_G's life once she was released from the villian. Prince D reminded G_G she had much to offer and would always be a special person in his life.)
G_G threw herself back into her work, family, training, church and now added computers. She loved the world that was being opened to her. She began to make friends in foreign lands. Even in this, she needed the help of her physician.
The darkness was still flirting on the edges; however, G_G was crawling out from under its heavy load. One day (shortly after she returned from visiting Prince D at university) she received, at her school, a decree from the courts of the land. The villian was finally releasing her. She could not believe it. Even now, though, the villian was doing his dearest to best her. He forced her to appear before the courts of the land, he had fled and could not be bothered to return. The stress opened G_G to illness and in one day she appeared before the courts (with her Queen mother at her side) and then reported to her physician who diagnosed her with walking pnumonia.
G_G, though, was released, at last. She was happy to have the closure as she prayed for. Heavenly King was healing and comforting her. She was not lonely. She began to plan for the future.
During this time G_G enjoyed her magical apple. One day she found a message on a message board. It was from another kingdom in South Florida. The wee students were learning about magical apples and the wonderous lands they could reach. Being a teacher, G_G posted a note to these wee ones about the Kingdom of Pensacola. She wished them the best as they began their journey of education. G_G went on and didn't think of this post again.
In another kingdom, Crystal River, a Knight named W was recovering, too. He had been married to a shrewish woman who wanted someone to take care of her. Knight W worked very hard at his job and tended to his "herd" of "mustangs" in his spare time. Knight W also enjoyed tests of strength. His shrewish wife, after 7 years, decided she did not care for Knight W anymore and she went home to her parents. Her parents felt sorry for Knight W; however, still had their lawyers take much of Knight W's kingdom to give to their shrewish child. They apologized by saying "blood is thicker than water".
Knight W began to recover. He spent time with friends. He tended his herd. He exercised. He claimed no interest in owning an magic apple as the ones he used at work he found bothersome. One day he was to show one of his herd with a friend. Rain forced them to alter their plans. His friend, Squire Russel, suggested they go to a shoppe that allowed people to use their magic apples for a small fee. They spent several hours in this shoppe. Knight W felt he may need a magic apple, after all.
Knight W was able to purchase a magic apple through his job. He brought it to his humble cottage and began to explore. One day he found a message board from the kingdom of South Florida. A class of wee ones were learning of the wonderous lands their magic apples could reach. Knight W was seized with the urge to write these wee ones. He thought they might like to hear about the land in which he lived.
In his inexperience Knight W clicked on a message and thought he responded to the thread, instead he responded to the message he selected. The message belonged to G_G.
...curious to know more???
Sunday, August 23, 2009
from facebook...
On this day of your life, Cathy, we believe God wants you to know...
... that work begins when you don't like what you are doing.
Little children can do the most amazing things with such joy and fun. You were little once too, and knew how to turn everything into a game. So, turn your work into a game, and you will find joy and satisfaction in it. What are some ways you can start being playful with work?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hmmmmmmmm....interesting.
... that work begins when you don't like what you are doing.
Little children can do the most amazing things with such joy and fun. You were little once too, and knew how to turn everything into a game. So, turn your work into a game, and you will find joy and satisfaction in it. What are some ways you can start being playful with work?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hmmmmmmmm....interesting.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Something to think about...
If God can fling out a galaxy so that it stays where He wants it and yet observes one exhausted person and strengthens him, can we believe that we are adrift in a fathomless void? Hear the promise of Jesus: "No, I will not abandon you or leave you as orphans in the storm--I will come to you" (Jn 14:18 LB).
Saturday, July 18, 2009
I am learning to wait...
Waiting for God's Time
11 Samuel 2:1-11
Second Samuel 2 opens with these words: "And it came to pass after this, that David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron" (v. 1).
David found, as we will too, that we never lose anything by believing God and then patiently waiting on Him. But we will surely suffer if we take things into our own hands and rush blindly ahead.
The word "Hebron" means "alliance" or "communion" in contrast to Ziklag, which refers to self-will. Being allied with God and being in communion with Him, David was in a place to be led in the will of God.
David's reign began by reigning first over Judah. It was not necessary for David to take the throne; God saw that he received it. God moved him back to Hebron, and his own tribe anointed him king.
Seven and a half years went by, however, before the whole kingdom was put under his hand. David still had to wait, but it was God's time he was waiting for, not people's.
"There is a time there for every purpose and for every work" (Eccles. 3:17).
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Could the 7.5 years be a significant time frame for me as well?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do You Want an Answer?
This is the question we need to ask ourselves when we are seeking "solutions" to our problems. Often we want only an audience. We want the chance to air grievances, to present our excuses, to make an explanation for our behavior, rather than a cure. More often than not the clearest and most direct answer can be found in the Word, but it must be sought honestly.
"The way of the Lord gives refuge to the honest man, but dismays those who do evil" (Prv. 10:29 NEB).
We can approach God's word with a will to obey whatever it says to us about our present situation, or we can avoid it and say to anyone who would try to point us to it, "Don't throw the Book at me." The latter is an evasion, which supports our suspicion that our problems are, in fact, insoluble. The honest (i.e., humble) heart will indeed find the Lord's way to be a refuge.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I do want answers; however, I am content to to wait on the Lord and on His perfect timing.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Holy Spirit, enable your kindness to take root and flourish in me. Make me more like Jesus, who, though he was rich, was willing to become poor for my sake. In his name, Amen.
11 Samuel 2:1-11
Second Samuel 2 opens with these words: "And it came to pass after this, that David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron" (v. 1).
David found, as we will too, that we never lose anything by believing God and then patiently waiting on Him. But we will surely suffer if we take things into our own hands and rush blindly ahead.
The word "Hebron" means "alliance" or "communion" in contrast to Ziklag, which refers to self-will. Being allied with God and being in communion with Him, David was in a place to be led in the will of God.
David's reign began by reigning first over Judah. It was not necessary for David to take the throne; God saw that he received it. God moved him back to Hebron, and his own tribe anointed him king.
Seven and a half years went by, however, before the whole kingdom was put under his hand. David still had to wait, but it was God's time he was waiting for, not people's.
"There is a time there for every purpose and for every work" (Eccles. 3:17).
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Could the 7.5 years be a significant time frame for me as well?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do You Want an Answer?
This is the question we need to ask ourselves when we are seeking "solutions" to our problems. Often we want only an audience. We want the chance to air grievances, to present our excuses, to make an explanation for our behavior, rather than a cure. More often than not the clearest and most direct answer can be found in the Word, but it must be sought honestly.
"The way of the Lord gives refuge to the honest man, but dismays those who do evil" (Prv. 10:29 NEB).
We can approach God's word with a will to obey whatever it says to us about our present situation, or we can avoid it and say to anyone who would try to point us to it, "Don't throw the Book at me." The latter is an evasion, which supports our suspicion that our problems are, in fact, insoluble. The honest (i.e., humble) heart will indeed find the Lord's way to be a refuge.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I do want answers; however, I am content to to wait on the Lord and on His perfect timing.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Holy Spirit, enable your kindness to take root and flourish in me. Make me more like Jesus, who, though he was rich, was willing to become poor for my sake. In his name, Amen.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Proverbs 27:1???
I got a message that on this day, God wants me to know...
... that I cannot wait anymore.
The moment has finally come. I have no choice. I have to take that step now. Now. Not tomorrow, not in an hour, - Now! If anyone else is reading this, they would be confused. But not me. I know exactly what we mean. Do it. Now.
... that I cannot wait anymore.
The moment has finally come. I have no choice. I have to take that step now. Now. Not tomorrow, not in an hour, - Now! If anyone else is reading this, they would be confused. But not me. I know exactly what we mean. Do it. Now.
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