~Casting Crowns If We've Ever Needed You http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kS_4VAX1a_A&feature=related
~Love having NASCAR back.
~Though I often make mistakes with my eating, I am learning, and doing better.
~Roses are blooming.
~Friends who see me through my less sane moments. :-)
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Saturday, March 10, 2012
My Heroes... Dan Potts....
This was posted on FaceBook, by Marcus Luttrell:
Daniel J. Potts, 61, of Houston, Texas died March 3, 2012 in a skydiving accident in San Marcos, Texas. He was born January 4, 1951, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Jerry and Alma (Tittle) Potts.
Dan enlisted in the US Navy in March 1969 during the Viet Nam war and volunteered for duty to serve in combat with the UDT-SEAL Teams. Dan qualified for and completed training in BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training) Class 55 and served in Vietnam with UDT 12 and UDT 13 until July 1972.
Dan moved to Houston in 1980 and became a self-employed master plumber and spent his entire career as a self employed independent businessman and had an excellent reputation for quality work and dedication to his work. Dan was an active member of the national UDT-SEAL Association and served as the founding President of the Gulf Coast Chapter of the UDT-SEAL Association from 2000-2006. He was an active member of the Republican Party, the Holley Terrace Civic Association, the National Rifle Association and the United States Parachute Association.
It has been recently said of Dan that he “Lived Out Loud!” Yes, Dan knew how to “live” and he invested his time in the things in life that he valued most. Dan was a man of deep moral conviction. Every person that knew Dan, even casually, knew the level of his faith. Dan was a devoted man of God and he tailored his life around that conviction. Dan’s life was a public demonstration of
service.
Dan loved God and determined early on, to live a life of service to the Lord. That service not only included an unfailing dedication to the family that he so deeply loved and committed to his care but, Dan’s level of service went well beyond. Dan loved his country and was deeply committed to serving this great nation, not only in words and deeds right up to the day of his death but, going back to his military days fighting for our freedoms on the battlefields of Viet Nam, with the US Navy UDT-SEALs; an organization he dedicated his entire adult life to supporting.
In short; Dan Potts was a man of immense moral conviction that was liberally demonstrated through a life without compromise. He did not compromise his faith in God, his love for his country, his love and dedication to his family, nor his love and dedication to his friends. To be a friend of Dan Potts was a special bond, for Dan knew how to be a friend, and just like everything else he did, he demonstrated his friendship as “action.” Yes, Dan did “Live Out Loud,” and for those that had the privilege of knowing him deeply, know just exactly how loud his love and devotion were.
Dan will be brought home by his fellow Navy SEALs to St. Jerome Catholic Church, 8825 Kempwood, Houston, Texas for the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 16. Rev. Msgr. Dan Scheel and Father George Henninger will celebrate the funeral mass with a reception following in the Father Raye Center. A memorial fund has been established for the family. Please send donations to:
Amegy Bank
Janet E. Potts, Trustee
Dan Potts Memorial Fund
This caught my attention because I'd seen the name in the SEAL books I'd read. He was always spoken of with respect and admiration. God bless his family. I want people to some day say of me that I lived out loud. I'm still a bit of a mouse, but I'm working on it.
Daniel J. Potts, 61, of Houston, Texas died March 3, 2012 in a skydiving accident in San Marcos, Texas. He was born January 4, 1951, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Jerry and Alma (Tittle) Potts.
Dan enlisted in the US Navy in March 1969 during the Viet Nam war and volunteered for duty to serve in combat with the UDT-SEAL Teams. Dan qualified for and completed training in BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training) Class 55 and served in Vietnam with UDT 12 and UDT 13 until July 1972.
Dan moved to Houston in 1980 and became a self-employed master plumber and spent his entire career as a self employed independent businessman and had an excellent reputation for quality work and dedication to his work. Dan was an active member of the national UDT-SEAL Association and served as the founding President of the Gulf Coast Chapter of the UDT-SEAL Association from 2000-2006. He was an active member of the Republican Party, the Holley Terrace Civic Association, the National Rifle Association and the United States Parachute Association.
It has been recently said of Dan that he “Lived Out Loud!” Yes, Dan knew how to “live” and he invested his time in the things in life that he valued most. Dan was a man of deep moral conviction. Every person that knew Dan, even casually, knew the level of his faith. Dan was a devoted man of God and he tailored his life around that conviction. Dan’s life was a public demonstration of
service.
Dan loved God and determined early on, to live a life of service to the Lord. That service not only included an unfailing dedication to the family that he so deeply loved and committed to his care but, Dan’s level of service went well beyond. Dan loved his country and was deeply committed to serving this great nation, not only in words and deeds right up to the day of his death but, going back to his military days fighting for our freedoms on the battlefields of Viet Nam, with the US Navy UDT-SEALs; an organization he dedicated his entire adult life to supporting.
In short; Dan Potts was a man of immense moral conviction that was liberally demonstrated through a life without compromise. He did not compromise his faith in God, his love for his country, his love and dedication to his family, nor his love and dedication to his friends. To be a friend of Dan Potts was a special bond, for Dan knew how to be a friend, and just like everything else he did, he demonstrated his friendship as “action.” Yes, Dan did “Live Out Loud,” and for those that had the privilege of knowing him deeply, know just exactly how loud his love and devotion were.
Dan will be brought home by his fellow Navy SEALs to St. Jerome Catholic Church, 8825 Kempwood, Houston, Texas for the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 16. Rev. Msgr. Dan Scheel and Father George Henninger will celebrate the funeral mass with a reception following in the Father Raye Center. A memorial fund has been established for the family. Please send donations to:
Amegy Bank
Janet E. Potts, Trustee
Dan Potts Memorial Fund
This caught my attention because I'd seen the name in the SEAL books I'd read. He was always spoken of with respect and admiration. God bless his family. I want people to some day say of me that I lived out loud. I'm still a bit of a mouse, but I'm working on it.
Friday, March 9, 2012
What doesn't end up on FaceBook...
Warning: Rant and possible triggering material. This post isn't intended to offend, but I needed to work out my growing restlessness.
If you wonder why I haven't commented on the latest viral video, it's because I looked the charity up, and there are other charities that are more responsible with their donations and their donors. I also wonder, "Where have you people been?" Do you live under rocks? This is not new. The movie was made in 2005, that's 7 years ago. Now they revamp it, making it shorter, and suddenly everyone is jumping in. Answer me this: What is their plan for changing things? Or are they simply collecting money? What? They're going to have the governments of the world interfere? Oh, and that works soooo well. Yes, that was snarky.
Maybe you haven't heard of the rape trees along the American border, either, where human traffickers separate the women and the girls, GIRLS, from the rest of the group and systematically rape them? Or is this too close to home for a closer look? Maybe it's easier to be sympathetic with the children in a country half a world away, instead of a few states away. Or the children used as drug mules?
What about the girls in Thailand who are sold into prostitution for all the visiting foreigners, by their families?
What about the boys and girls caught in the sex slave trade in India?
Is the inhumanity horrific? Absolutely. No doubt. Full stop.
Why did this recent video hype ruffle my feathers? Because there is nothing within my realm of power that I can do. I resent having my emotions played on for sympathy for a cause I can't help, especially when they ask for money, with only vague promises of helping. More, I resent feeling manipulated for a cause I don't know enough about, and there isn't a lot of information out there to enlighten me. I am expected to trust filmmakers, who made a documentary to expose a problem, but admit to fudging here and there for the sake of simplicity.
I know. I know. I can donate money. Have I mentioned lately I'm poor as a church mouse? Oh, yes, I go to Starbucks a few times a month. Could I spend the money better elsewhere? Yes. Do I need that time more? Yes. It isn't only about the hot chocolate. To be honest, mine is better. What it's really about: I force myself to dress nicely and wear makeup, trying different styles, not so much to see how others react to me, but to see how I react and feel. Being one of those who hates going out in public, interacting with strangers, and leaving home, this is something I'm doing to teach myself to be out and about. It's cheaper than going to a restaurant, which is what I did when I made more money.
Homework: The charity currently being touted only received 3 of 4 stars on the charity rating site I checked, which is better than only one or two stars. However, there were three other similar charities that received 4 of 4 stars. I participate regularly, to one degree or another, in two different charities. I investigated them both. There are a half dozen other charities I've investigated and found worth supporting, and do whenever I can.
So if I don't jump on board, don't think I'm not sympathetic. I lived down the street from a pedophile, who finally went to jail, with people still claiming he was framed. He died there, with people still claiming he was framed. He wasn't. In fact, he got off easy. He was a monster.
If you can do something, do it.
Here's the truth: Everyone is crying over these poor children, and I'm not denying it's sad, but they look away when the child next door passes by with bruises on their legs and terror in their eyes. They jump on their hobby horse to save the children in another country, and say not a word about the runaway teens being pimped in the less savory part of town. They're indignant that a monster goes unpunished, while monsters are regularly freed from prison after serving only part of their sentence, if they serve any time at all. They demand everyone stand for the children a half a world away, but they don't stand for the children in their own city.
Wow. I hadn't realized what was at the center of my growing anger. Now, I know. I've been wondering if I'm doing enough. I have my causes, and I do my best to support them, even if it's only in prayer.
Research what captures your heart. Find out the best way for you to make a difference. And do it.
If you wonder why I haven't commented on the latest viral video, it's because I looked the charity up, and there are other charities that are more responsible with their donations and their donors. I also wonder, "Where have you people been?" Do you live under rocks? This is not new. The movie was made in 2005, that's 7 years ago. Now they revamp it, making it shorter, and suddenly everyone is jumping in. Answer me this: What is their plan for changing things? Or are they simply collecting money? What? They're going to have the governments of the world interfere? Oh, and that works soooo well. Yes, that was snarky.
Maybe you haven't heard of the rape trees along the American border, either, where human traffickers separate the women and the girls, GIRLS, from the rest of the group and systematically rape them? Or is this too close to home for a closer look? Maybe it's easier to be sympathetic with the children in a country half a world away, instead of a few states away. Or the children used as drug mules?
What about the girls in Thailand who are sold into prostitution for all the visiting foreigners, by their families?
What about the boys and girls caught in the sex slave trade in India?
Is the inhumanity horrific? Absolutely. No doubt. Full stop.
Why did this recent video hype ruffle my feathers? Because there is nothing within my realm of power that I can do. I resent having my emotions played on for sympathy for a cause I can't help, especially when they ask for money, with only vague promises of helping. More, I resent feeling manipulated for a cause I don't know enough about, and there isn't a lot of information out there to enlighten me. I am expected to trust filmmakers, who made a documentary to expose a problem, but admit to fudging here and there for the sake of simplicity.
I know. I know. I can donate money. Have I mentioned lately I'm poor as a church mouse? Oh, yes, I go to Starbucks a few times a month. Could I spend the money better elsewhere? Yes. Do I need that time more? Yes. It isn't only about the hot chocolate. To be honest, mine is better. What it's really about: I force myself to dress nicely and wear makeup, trying different styles, not so much to see how others react to me, but to see how I react and feel. Being one of those who hates going out in public, interacting with strangers, and leaving home, this is something I'm doing to teach myself to be out and about. It's cheaper than going to a restaurant, which is what I did when I made more money.
Homework: The charity currently being touted only received 3 of 4 stars on the charity rating site I checked, which is better than only one or two stars. However, there were three other similar charities that received 4 of 4 stars. I participate regularly, to one degree or another, in two different charities. I investigated them both. There are a half dozen other charities I've investigated and found worth supporting, and do whenever I can.
So if I don't jump on board, don't think I'm not sympathetic. I lived down the street from a pedophile, who finally went to jail, with people still claiming he was framed. He died there, with people still claiming he was framed. He wasn't. In fact, he got off easy. He was a monster.
If you can do something, do it.
Here's the truth: Everyone is crying over these poor children, and I'm not denying it's sad, but they look away when the child next door passes by with bruises on their legs and terror in their eyes. They jump on their hobby horse to save the children in another country, and say not a word about the runaway teens being pimped in the less savory part of town. They're indignant that a monster goes unpunished, while monsters are regularly freed from prison after serving only part of their sentence, if they serve any time at all. They demand everyone stand for the children a half a world away, but they don't stand for the children in their own city.
Wow. I hadn't realized what was at the center of my growing anger. Now, I know. I've been wondering if I'm doing enough. I have my causes, and I do my best to support them, even if it's only in prayer.
Research what captures your heart. Find out the best way for you to make a difference. And do it.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Week Thirty-Seven of REAL...
Reminders: REAL - Reduce stress Exercise Adequate sleep Lower caloric intake
What Navy SEALs are required to do to make it into BUD/S:
500 yard swim using breast and/or sidestroke 12.5 minutes 10 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 42 push-ups 2 minutes 2 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 50 sit-ups 2 minutes 2 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 6 pull-ups No time limit 10 minute rest
Run 1.5 miles wearing boots and long pants 11.5 minutes
Here's the link if you're interested in the whole thing: http://navyseal.s5.com/requirements.html
RIght up front: Never in a million years could I do what is required. However, I needed to start somewhere. Considering how fit the SEALs are, I figured it was a good place to start. So my SEAL puppy reps consist of girls' pushups, crunches, and flutter kicks, a SEAL training basic. I started with doing one of each. This week, I try to increase by 10%. I've worked up to 15.
The 2nd: weigh in: 229.6 lb. SEAL puppy rep. Two-mile walk in 40 minutes. SEAL puppy rep. Physical therapy, with 1-lb weights.
The 3rd: weigh in: 229.6 lb. One-mile walk with my sister.
The 4th: weigh in: 229.6 lb. Interesting.
The 5th: weigh in: 229.2 lb. SEAL puppy rep. Two-mile walk. SEAL puppy rep.
The 6th: weigh in 229.2 lb. One-mile walk. Physical therapy, with 1-lb weights.
The 7th: weigh in: 230.6 lb. SEAL puppy rep. Two-mile walk. SEAL puppy rep. Yes, I stressed, yesterday, and ate pretty badly. Today should be better. Nope. Stressed. I'd planned to spend the morning doing my regular work, and then spend the rest of the day doing my heart work. (Thanks Connie W for that label. It fits.) Instead, I worked on my regular work ALL day long. It wasn't what I'd expected. It is done. Whew. Unfortunately, my eating is shot. I'll start over, tomorrow.
The 8th: weigh in: 232.4 lb. Waist circumference: 39". Physical therapy, with 1-lb weights. Sigh. Not surprised by the extra weight, today. Today, I will do better. What's interesting is the way I feel. I didn't used to feel this awful when I ate the way I did yesterday. I think I'm becoming so much better at eating more healthily, and my body is growing accustomed to it. This is good, and will be even better once I stop feeling so sick. :-)
My inspiration:
*whispers* Did you know if you click on the picture it more than doubles in size? I like it. :-)
What Navy SEALs are required to do to make it into BUD/S:
500 yard swim using breast and/or sidestroke 12.5 minutes 10 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 42 push-ups 2 minutes 2 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 50 sit-ups 2 minutes 2 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 6 pull-ups No time limit 10 minute rest
Run 1.5 miles wearing boots and long pants 11.5 minutes
Here's the link if you're interested in the whole thing: http://navyseal.s5.com/requirements.html
RIght up front: Never in a million years could I do what is required. However, I needed to start somewhere. Considering how fit the SEALs are, I figured it was a good place to start. So my SEAL puppy reps consist of girls' pushups, crunches, and flutter kicks, a SEAL training basic. I started with doing one of each. This week, I try to increase by 10%. I've worked up to 15.
The 2nd: weigh in: 229.6 lb. SEAL puppy rep. Two-mile walk in 40 minutes. SEAL puppy rep. Physical therapy, with 1-lb weights.
The 3rd: weigh in: 229.6 lb. One-mile walk with my sister.
The 4th: weigh in: 229.6 lb. Interesting.
The 5th: weigh in: 229.2 lb. SEAL puppy rep. Two-mile walk. SEAL puppy rep.
The 6th: weigh in 229.2 lb. One-mile walk. Physical therapy, with 1-lb weights.
The 7th: weigh in: 230.6 lb. SEAL puppy rep. Two-mile walk. SEAL puppy rep. Yes, I stressed, yesterday, and ate pretty badly. Today should be better. Nope. Stressed. I'd planned to spend the morning doing my regular work, and then spend the rest of the day doing my heart work. (Thanks Connie W for that label. It fits.) Instead, I worked on my regular work ALL day long. It wasn't what I'd expected. It is done. Whew. Unfortunately, my eating is shot. I'll start over, tomorrow.
The 8th: weigh in: 232.4 lb. Waist circumference: 39". Physical therapy, with 1-lb weights. Sigh. Not surprised by the extra weight, today. Today, I will do better. What's interesting is the way I feel. I didn't used to feel this awful when I ate the way I did yesterday. I think I'm becoming so much better at eating more healthily, and my body is growing accustomed to it. This is good, and will be even better once I stop feeling so sick. :-)
My inspiration:
*whispers* Did you know if you click on the picture it more than doubles in size? I like it. :-)
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Another brain dump...
Following up on the Google and FaceBook annoyance of changing their "look" and other things.
I've finally found it amusing.
Google and FaceBook like to consider themselves cutting edge. It makes them feel important and smart.
I've been looking at their "new" look for the past month. Every time I look at it, I keep thinking it reminds me of something. I've scratched my head, and struggled to place why it seems so familiar.
I figured it out.
Ladies and gentlemen, the most advanced technology companies (as they like to believe themselves to be) in the world have reverted to the Victorian era.
Really.
Google it, or better yet, use GoodSearch.com, which is powered by Yahoo. Go ahead, check out the images.
It's busy. It's cluttered.
It's the new Google and FaceBook look on your computer.
Congratulations Google and FaceBook for stepping back over a century. The look isn't new. There's a reason why it didn't last. It gave way to styles by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright. Neater, clearer, more streamlined.... oh, that's what Google and FaceBook are leaving behind.
See, everything old is new again. I simply never thought I'd see the Victorian style come back into fashion, especially not through the technical giants of the internet.
It's funny, if it weren't quite so pathetic to see those who brag about coming up with new ideas falling back on something from the 1800s AND calling it "new." Not new guys. There's a reason it went out of style.
You know what this means? They'll figure it out, and changing everything, again. sigh.
I've finally found it amusing.
Google and FaceBook like to consider themselves cutting edge. It makes them feel important and smart.
I've been looking at their "new" look for the past month. Every time I look at it, I keep thinking it reminds me of something. I've scratched my head, and struggled to place why it seems so familiar.
I figured it out.
Ladies and gentlemen, the most advanced technology companies (as they like to believe themselves to be) in the world have reverted to the Victorian era.
Really.
Google it, or better yet, use GoodSearch.com, which is powered by Yahoo. Go ahead, check out the images.
It's busy. It's cluttered.
It's the new Google and FaceBook look on your computer.
Congratulations Google and FaceBook for stepping back over a century. The look isn't new. There's a reason why it didn't last. It gave way to styles by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright. Neater, clearer, more streamlined.... oh, that's what Google and FaceBook are leaving behind.
See, everything old is new again. I simply never thought I'd see the Victorian style come back into fashion, especially not through the technical giants of the internet.
It's funny, if it weren't quite so pathetic to see those who brag about coming up with new ideas falling back on something from the 1800s AND calling it "new." Not new guys. There's a reason it went out of style.
You know what this means? They'll figure it out, and changing everything, again. sigh.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Brain dump...
It's super Tuesday. I never bothered with politics, growing up. It didn't mean anything to me. I was too busy trying to make sense of my life to worry about affairs I didn't understand and didn't really want to understand. Times have changed. God help us.
Google, I'm not impressed. I've tried the new look. It's cluttered. The special buttons - you know the ones, the ones to change themes and add gadgets - instead of being neatly out of the way are now pasted across the picture. The theme picture I chose because I like the picture.
And FaceBook is changing to timeline. It keeps telling me my friends love it, and I should switch, too. A third of my friends have it, some of them because FB changed it for them. If only a third of my friends have it, doesn't that suggest the majority of my friends don't want it? Or is my math wrong?
March weather: Wait five minutes, it will change. I'm not enjoying it. Summer is coming, I know this. Fine. Let it come, but not today! It's hot, and then it's cold. I don't do well.
There is no such thing as fair. Fair is a concept created by the adversary to trap people into believing things should be a certain way.
What there is: Jesus offers Mercy, to pay the debt required by Justice.
Google, I'm not impressed. I've tried the new look. It's cluttered. The special buttons - you know the ones, the ones to change themes and add gadgets - instead of being neatly out of the way are now pasted across the picture. The theme picture I chose because I like the picture.
And FaceBook is changing to timeline. It keeps telling me my friends love it, and I should switch, too. A third of my friends have it, some of them because FB changed it for them. If only a third of my friends have it, doesn't that suggest the majority of my friends don't want it? Or is my math wrong?
March weather: Wait five minutes, it will change. I'm not enjoying it. Summer is coming, I know this. Fine. Let it come, but not today! It's hot, and then it's cold. I don't do well.
There is no such thing as fair. Fair is a concept created by the adversary to trap people into believing things should be a certain way.
What there is: Jesus offers Mercy, to pay the debt required by Justice.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Carpe diem... PIR...
That's Phoenix International Raceway. NASCAR!! Alas, Carl ran out of gas! But at least he finished 17th. He's #10 overall. Go Carl!
What will be done, today?
Exercise
Laundry
Reading
Writing
More than enough to keep me busy.
Hmmm.... I need to add in eat healthy. Clearly, that's still a tough one for me. I'm working on it.
A hero doesn't look away; they do something to help.
What will be done, today?
Exercise
Laundry
Reading
Writing
More than enough to keep me busy.
Hmmm.... I need to add in eat healthy. Clearly, that's still a tough one for me. I'm working on it.
A hero doesn't look away; they do something to help.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Thank Goodness It's Sunday #93
~Newsboys Amazing Love http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwjTT2bqKk0&feature=related
~Visits with dear friends.
~Desert Rose gatherings.
~God's guiding hand in my life.
~NASCAR is back! Whoohoo! GO CARL!! :-)
~Visits with dear friends.
~Desert Rose gatherings.
~God's guiding hand in my life.
~NASCAR is back! Whoohoo! GO CARL!! :-)
Saturday, March 3, 2012
My Heroes... SEAL Aaron Vaughn...
Special Operations Chief (SEAL) Aaron Carson Vaughn was one of those lost, last August, when the helicopters were shot down. http://forourson.us/index.html
I suppose what brought this home to me, this week, was the release of the movie Act of Valor. Marcus Luttrell gave his stamp of approval on the movie. That's enough for me.
I don't remember who directed me to this site, but I'm grateful. I know there are those who read this who will be uncomfortable there, but being comfortable is highly overrated.
I cannot imagine how these parents must feel, having lost a son, let alone all the parents and sweethearts who have lost loved ones. I pray for them for strength and courage. I don't know if comfort is possible, and sometimes it isn't wanted.
One summer, long ago, vacation was almost over, which included horseback riding for me. My sister pulled the car over and offered a prayer of comfort for me. I remember vividly that peace stealing over me, and the anger that flashed within me. I didn't want to be comforted. I wanted to own my sorrow. Things were changing, and I knew it down to my soul nothing would be the same. I wanted time to processes it, to grieve. My sister was being kind. I felt guilty for not wanting what she offered. Now, I know we would both handle it differently.
When I heard the news of this tragedy, I wondered at it. I pray these families are able to find answers, though I fear it may not happen in this life. In their Quest, I pray they do not grow bitter, but instead grow stronger in their pursuit of the truth. I pray they are able to help others, and as they are uncomfortable, I pray they make others uncomfortable.
An odd thing to pray for, I know, but it is only when we are uncomfortable that we decide to make changes.
Every day, I pray for our military. Our warriors.
I suppose what brought this home to me, this week, was the release of the movie Act of Valor. Marcus Luttrell gave his stamp of approval on the movie. That's enough for me.
I don't remember who directed me to this site, but I'm grateful. I know there are those who read this who will be uncomfortable there, but being comfortable is highly overrated.
I cannot imagine how these parents must feel, having lost a son, let alone all the parents and sweethearts who have lost loved ones. I pray for them for strength and courage. I don't know if comfort is possible, and sometimes it isn't wanted.
One summer, long ago, vacation was almost over, which included horseback riding for me. My sister pulled the car over and offered a prayer of comfort for me. I remember vividly that peace stealing over me, and the anger that flashed within me. I didn't want to be comforted. I wanted to own my sorrow. Things were changing, and I knew it down to my soul nothing would be the same. I wanted time to processes it, to grieve. My sister was being kind. I felt guilty for not wanting what she offered. Now, I know we would both handle it differently.
When I heard the news of this tragedy, I wondered at it. I pray these families are able to find answers, though I fear it may not happen in this life. In their Quest, I pray they do not grow bitter, but instead grow stronger in their pursuit of the truth. I pray they are able to help others, and as they are uncomfortable, I pray they make others uncomfortable.
An odd thing to pray for, I know, but it is only when we are uncomfortable that we decide to make changes.
Every day, I pray for our military. Our warriors.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Posts I enjoyed this past week...
This one post a picture with a short "verse." I find it interesting: http://thebackgroundstory.com/
This one is awesome: http://www.positivelypositive.com/2012/02/26/happiness/
There were others, but I'm a bit brain foggy. Of course, I have a list on my blog, but there are others as well. C.S. Lewis said that we read to know we are not alone. I think we blog for the same reason. Someone else hears us, feels the same way, or at least understands.
As I read the above blog I was gobsmacked to have my life poured out in black and white by someone who doesn't know me at all, which means I'm not the only one who feels this way. I'm pleased I've been working in the right direction on my own. It's nice to have my decisions validated, though it's also nice to know it wasn't necessary to keep me going in the right direction. I'm continuing because I'm happy with where I'm going and what I'm becoming.
I met a dear friend at Starbucks, yesterday, and enjoyed the time together, chatting. My friend helps me center myself. I dressed nicely, in a skirt and blouse. Chatting with her, I realized the blouse isn't really me. Instead of talking myself into accepting it, I was able to more clearly visualize what I want for myself. I also wore light makeup and wore my hair a little differently. I noticed the way it made me feel a bit different, more self-confident, and funnily enough, less self-conscious. Why? I don't know. I didn't expect it.
Thank God, I'm feeling better. My back is still a little sore, but it's improving. I've had a headache all day, but I think it's related to the changing weather. I've had trouble with barometric headaches for years. Unfortunately, medications don't help. Breathe in. Breathe out.
This one is awesome: http://www.positivelypositive.com/2012/02/26/happiness/
There were others, but I'm a bit brain foggy. Of course, I have a list on my blog, but there are others as well. C.S. Lewis said that we read to know we are not alone. I think we blog for the same reason. Someone else hears us, feels the same way, or at least understands.
As I read the above blog I was gobsmacked to have my life poured out in black and white by someone who doesn't know me at all, which means I'm not the only one who feels this way. I'm pleased I've been working in the right direction on my own. It's nice to have my decisions validated, though it's also nice to know it wasn't necessary to keep me going in the right direction. I'm continuing because I'm happy with where I'm going and what I'm becoming.
I met a dear friend at Starbucks, yesterday, and enjoyed the time together, chatting. My friend helps me center myself. I dressed nicely, in a skirt and blouse. Chatting with her, I realized the blouse isn't really me. Instead of talking myself into accepting it, I was able to more clearly visualize what I want for myself. I also wore light makeup and wore my hair a little differently. I noticed the way it made me feel a bit different, more self-confident, and funnily enough, less self-conscious. Why? I don't know. I didn't expect it.
Thank God, I'm feeling better. My back is still a little sore, but it's improving. I've had a headache all day, but I think it's related to the changing weather. I've had trouble with barometric headaches for years. Unfortunately, medications don't help. Breathe in. Breathe out.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Week Thirty-Six of REAL...
Reminders:
Reduce stress
Exercise
Adequate sleep
Lower caloric intake
What Navy SEALs are required to do to make it into BUD/S:
500 yard swim using breast and/or sidestroke 12.5 minutes 10 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 42 push-ups 2 minutes 2 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 50 sit-ups 2 minutes 2 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 6 pull-ups No time limit 10 minute rest
Run 1.5 miles wearing boots and long pants 11.5 minutes
Here's the link if you're interested in the whole thing: http://navyseal.s5.com/requirements.html
RIght up front: Never in a million years could I do what is required. However, I needed to start somewhere. Considering how fit the SEALs are, I figured it was a good place to start. So my SEAL puppy reps consist of girls' pushups, crunches, and flutter kicks, a SEAL training basic. I started with doing one of each. This week, I've worked up to 14.
The 24th: weigh in: 229.2 lb. Increase by 10% SEAL puppy rep up to 14. One-mile easy walk. It's the first walk since I've been sick, so I didn't push for speed, only to help my back loosen up and relax. One more SEAL puppy rep, though me lower back refused to allow the flutter kicks. It's discouraging when you can't raise your feet six inches off the floor. I did my physical therapy without weights. I also did some of my early PT stuff, which helped to loosen the tension in my low back. A couple on Tylenol didn't go amiss either.
The 25th: weigh in: 230 lb. Easy walking at the Ren Faire, today. A lot of standing, doing the rocking back and forth my physical therapist taught me to help loosen up my back. It seems to help. It's that or the trade off of Tylenol and ibuprofen. Again and again, thank You God for those anti-inflammatories and pain relievers.
The 26th: weigh in: 230.2 lb. If I wasn't sure I was under the weather, I am now. I slept 12 hours, but I am recovering. Thanks, God.
The 27th: weigh in: 230.6 lb. Okay, now I'm dealing with losing weight being healthy, again, mostly. Back is still bothering me a bit, but I was able to do a SEAL puppy rep first thing, followed by a one-mile walk, which took me about 23 minutes - yes, it's that bad, but improving - and one more SEAL puppy rep, including flutter kicks. Thanks God! Recovering from low back problems always takes longer than I'd like, but if I'm smart about it, it doesn't take as long as it used to take, which was months. Also did my physical therapy, but without weights.
The 28th: weigh in 230.8 lb. Not bad considering how badly I ate, yesterday. Desert Rose meeting was great. I ate better, today. I'm feeling better. Thank God.
The 29th: weigh in: 231.2 lb. Sigh. I'm eating normally again, and not quite up to my exercise normal, but easing back. One SEAL puppy rep. One and a half mile walk in 30 minutes, using my staff. It actually did help. One more SEAL puppy rep. Physical therapy, with 1 lb weights.
March
The 1st: weigh in: 230.2 lb. Waist circumference: 39". Not bad, considering I'm well again, eating normally, and finally easing back into my healthy habits. Reminder to self, because I haven't done this in a while: I do not need to hide anymore. I don't need the fat to protect me. I'm learning how to set and maintain healthy boundaries. Taking care of myself is honorable.
Inspiration, at least to me:
Reduce stress
Exercise
Adequate sleep
Lower caloric intake
What Navy SEALs are required to do to make it into BUD/S:
500 yard swim using breast and/or sidestroke 12.5 minutes 10 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 42 push-ups 2 minutes 2 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 50 sit-ups 2 minutes 2 minute rest
Perform a minimum of 6 pull-ups No time limit 10 minute rest
Run 1.5 miles wearing boots and long pants 11.5 minutes
Here's the link if you're interested in the whole thing: http://navyseal.s5.com/requirements.html
RIght up front: Never in a million years could I do what is required. However, I needed to start somewhere. Considering how fit the SEALs are, I figured it was a good place to start. So my SEAL puppy reps consist of girls' pushups, crunches, and flutter kicks, a SEAL training basic. I started with doing one of each. This week, I've worked up to 14.
The 24th: weigh in: 229.2 lb. Increase by 10% SEAL puppy rep up to 14. One-mile easy walk. It's the first walk since I've been sick, so I didn't push for speed, only to help my back loosen up and relax. One more SEAL puppy rep, though me lower back refused to allow the flutter kicks. It's discouraging when you can't raise your feet six inches off the floor. I did my physical therapy without weights. I also did some of my early PT stuff, which helped to loosen the tension in my low back. A couple on Tylenol didn't go amiss either.
The 25th: weigh in: 230 lb. Easy walking at the Ren Faire, today. A lot of standing, doing the rocking back and forth my physical therapist taught me to help loosen up my back. It seems to help. It's that or the trade off of Tylenol and ibuprofen. Again and again, thank You God for those anti-inflammatories and pain relievers.
The 26th: weigh in: 230.2 lb. If I wasn't sure I was under the weather, I am now. I slept 12 hours, but I am recovering. Thanks, God.
The 27th: weigh in: 230.6 lb. Okay, now I'm dealing with losing weight being healthy, again, mostly. Back is still bothering me a bit, but I was able to do a SEAL puppy rep first thing, followed by a one-mile walk, which took me about 23 minutes - yes, it's that bad, but improving - and one more SEAL puppy rep, including flutter kicks. Thanks God! Recovering from low back problems always takes longer than I'd like, but if I'm smart about it, it doesn't take as long as it used to take, which was months. Also did my physical therapy, but without weights.
The 28th: weigh in 230.8 lb. Not bad considering how badly I ate, yesterday. Desert Rose meeting was great. I ate better, today. I'm feeling better. Thank God.
The 29th: weigh in: 231.2 lb. Sigh. I'm eating normally again, and not quite up to my exercise normal, but easing back. One SEAL puppy rep. One and a half mile walk in 30 minutes, using my staff. It actually did help. One more SEAL puppy rep. Physical therapy, with 1 lb weights.
March
The 1st: weigh in: 230.2 lb. Waist circumference: 39". Not bad, considering I'm well again, eating normally, and finally easing back into my healthy habits. Reminder to self, because I haven't done this in a while: I do not need to hide anymore. I don't need the fat to protect me. I'm learning how to set and maintain healthy boundaries. Taking care of myself is honorable.
Inspiration, at least to me:
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Tomorrow is Friendship Day
Celebrate with a story. Just Friends The sixth novella in the series. Welcome back to Holiday, USA, small town America, where nothing happen...
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~ A/C ~ Dog time ~ Good movies ~ Donna Keevers Driver's talented work ~ Yummy pastries from Kneaders
