Jamie's Most Excellent and Mad Adventure

Dear Phenom Gals..Hope Your Spring Break Rocks!

2008-04-17T06:54:00.001-07:00

Dear Ladies:

Happy Thursday and Happy Almost Spring Break!

Here, I found a picture of us...

Here is me with Cheryl E. last Spring Break in Barbados...

It was sooo fun.. No Silly, that wasn't us. But look, I found the whole Phenomenal Group of Us on the beach two years ago...

No, guess that was us more like 20 or so years ago...

But we can do it again. Yes, I can foresee next year the...

First Annual Phenomenal Sisterhood Spring Break Weekend..

Yea!! There we are. Next year -- or next month? It's definitely possible.

Okay, for those of you who can't get enough of Cindy's beautiful new granddaughter London Reece South... Here she is one more time with Daniel her very proud Daddy.

Next year London Reece can join us at the beach ... Yea!

Okay, for those not travelling our discussion in SSchool will revolve around Chapter 8 -- Finding a Life in Balance. Your Emotional Health..

Lisa asks us to ask ourselves.."To what am I enslaved and yoked?" What do I find myself burdened by... depression, abuse, loneliness, skewed perspective, anger, an eating disorder, an addiction? How is my life in balance or out of control?"

I wonder if they mean slightly off-kilter or completely raging out of control?

Oh dear. Sounds like very weighty stuff....

But in addition to recommending seeking out a Godly therapist to help deal with any very deep, thoroughly entrenched enslaving behaviors and tapes,

The Chapter is full of great practical advice.

BOUNDARIES... We all know that word. SELF CONTROL... Another two words we all know.

Self control and boundaries create freedom. YEA!!!!

Also to find balance, "Consciously, slow the pace of life. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal. Obey the speed limit."

And with a more flexible schedule for most next week -- that's a great place to start..

Take a hike.. get outdoors by yourself or with the kids. If you go far enough -- the children can roam free for hours and hopefully not get abducted by madman or hit by a car... and you might even get to take a quick cat nap.

Hurrah!

Or you could just very quietly sneak away to bathroom. Lock the door and find quiet.

Your own little spa moment....

If you are heading out of town. Travel safe. All the rest of your Phenom Gals - I hope to see you Sunday!!!!

Much love and Much laughter.............

God Bless and Hope your Spring Break Rocks!! j

All the Who's down in Whoville...

2007-11-26T05:50:00.000-08:00

Another photojournalism attempt by me... for those of you who missed the fun decorating our lovely sanctuary -- here are a few highlights..

okay -- it really wasn't my eyes that were bad when i took this picture. it was terribly out of focus.

What do they say? Everyone hard at work..or hardly working.

Yea!

-

We thought just draping the greenery over the pews might be the way to go this year.
At least most would likely stay awake in church. -- for will be tad uncomfortable.

Lovely.

Ladders...thankfully, Joe and everyone else once again managed to stay on them.

Some of our most valuable younger helpers!

Who is that guy just loitering around in the red sweater?

All done! quite spectacular! Good Job!

Mstone Classnotes 11.18.07. Catnaps and Black socks.

2007-11-19T12:10:00.000-08:00

Dear All:

Okay – it is the most beautiful day outside. I just feel most cat-like sitting in the sunshine typing away. The only thing that would be better would be if I were asleep. Taking a catnap of sorts. That is incredibly cat-like for I think my father told me once that cats sleep two-thirds of their lives away.

Sounds great! Kind of.

Sunday School was indeed great yesterday – another large Milestone crowd. I mean don’t you people have homes and beds where you could be sleeping on Sunday mornings?

Well, Jamie – then we would miss out on all the fun at church!!! Of course, that must be it. (for you certainly have homes, beds and the like.) Though hope they are neater than mine at present. But who would wantest to be inside straightening with such glorious day. Not i! (big surprise)

Laree and Dan the Man taught great lesson again this week. Actually it was just Laree this week, guess Dan is up next week.

We again discussed Max Lucado’s thoughts on hope and experiencing Jesus.

We started with 1 Corinthians 15:35-38. Thankfully I was sitting by Ruth for she very patiently helped me find the verses that Laree called out in class. Rather like Jake thankfully sitting by James in many of his middle school classes.

This passage talks of the new glorious body we will have in heaven.

Laree, “What does Paul mean by body?”

Mary D., “A new form of being – be ourselves yet different.”

Julie spoke of how our lives could be compared to the acorn and the oak. That our perfected bodies are the mighty oak – but all our potential is always there in the tiny acorn.

Then Laree really gave us all uplifting food for thought thinking of what our future here on earth is with our earthly bodies.

Arthritis, disease, gray hair, wrinkles, loss of bladder control, bad backs, -- black dress socks, translucent white legs attached to white tennis shoes – and whatever happens to the aging brain that doesn’t realize that this just looks STUPID. This affliction seems to be particularly epidemic amongst the aging white male population of Dade County.

I stopped writing at this point for felt sudden gripping wave of depression and noticed I really, really had to use the little girls (or rapidly falling apart women 40-somethings) room.

It is quite bummer getting older.

Then Laree mentioned how Jesus gives us hope. (And what do you know – it is not in the form of Botox injections.) How when we see His body we will be amazed…2 Thessalonians 1:10.

See the bible says he has this amazing body – holy, just, pure, ready to do 100 Ironmans in a row – and we are promised something similar. Unbelievable!

Okay this is where I stopped taking notes again, but Katie said some great things about how we all can see this perfected Jesus reflected in the people we meet every day.

Yes, once we are born again the perfection process starts. That doesn’t mean we won't fall – but God never stops trying to help us fulfil his commandment to be perfect like He is perfect.

Laree liked the analogy that we are the seed. All we have is there from the beginning and if nurtured we grow, blossom and bear fruit.

C.S. Lewis puts it this way. “It may be hard for an egg to turn into a bird: it would be a jolly sight harder for it to learn to fly while remaining an egg. We are like eggs at present. And you cannot go on indefinitely being just an ordinary, decent egg. We must be hatched or go bad.”

Yet God wants us to be perfect…starting toward that goal of flight. And we will fail on that journey. Fall lots of times. But I think this next thought of Lewis’ is so simple, yet sums up everything in a brilliant nutshell.

“You must realize from the outset that the goal towards which He is beginning to guide you is absolute perfection; and no power in the whole universe -- except you yourself -- (emphasis mine) can prevent Him from taking you to that goal.”

Whatever he calls us to do toward being as the glorified Jesus on earth, nothing can stop us – except ourselves. The truth of that really troubles me, challenges me, scares me – even more than the thought that my brain might one day not comprehend that shorts, black socks and tennis shoes are just BAD.

So it's our choice -- to surrender all and immediately be cleared for take-off. Or hold on to things that seem too precious to turn over to God.

Thanks Laree for great lesson.

Prayer Requests

I think most all of you have heard the sad news of Tim's father's passing. We will be sure to pass along service arrangement information.

Let us all keep Tim's mom Dolores, Tim and his brother and sister in all our prayers during this most difficult time. We pray for their safe and expedient passage home.

A cottage at the Methodist Children's Home housing teenage boys burned Saturday night. Please keep all in your prayers. The class is discussing ways the we can corporately help. They certainly would like individual donations as well.

Rick Spence had a great meeting with all the Duke medical personnel. They have mapped out a course of treatment for the entire year. Thank God that Rick is working with a medical team that is on cutting edge of treatment for his condition. We continue to pray for strength and complete healing.

Karen asked for prayers for her Aunt Barbara Peters who is having a very difficult time and complications from her chemotherapy. Right now she is in hospital with blood clot in her lung. We pray for healing and peace in this struggle.

In spite of how much i am having kittens over this beautiful weather -- we really do need to pray for rain.

Announcements

All Mstones please stay after church or return to sanctuary to help decorate for Advent after 11 a.m. service. I think i heard something about pizzas provided.

The Christmas Party is set for December 15 at the Couch's. Please RSVP to gatrjam@aol.com for Kathryn is going to start list of those attending for Empty Stocking Gift exchange.

Good Week, God Bless and

i've decided to dress as a Pilgrim this year for Miles' Thanksgiving feast...what do you think? i don't think this is actual violation of no black socks rule. i think they are more black stocking-like.

Really the houndstooth cloak will make all the difference. My research turned up that they were all the rage in Puritan Early America. Definitely hottest item at the Plymouth Gap in year 1600 for glam feast-wear.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving with your loved ones.

How did the turkey get it's name?

Some say Columbus thought the turkey was part of the peacock family. So he decided to call them "tuka" which is the word for peacock in the language of India.

Big Bird (from Sesame Street) is dressed in a costume of turkey feathers. His costume is made of nearly 4,000 white turkey feathers (dyed yellow).

Turkeys don’t really have ears like ours, but they have very good hearing. (what?)

The Game..

2007-10-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

The Red Sox swept the Rockies.

The Ducks beat the glamour boys. Though those Oregon uniforms really are a cry for help. I guess because they are West Coast they can get away with cutting-edge completely ridiculous.

Tennessee beat somebody. I guess the Tennants and Faye know who.

Michigan valiantly fought for and won the little brown jug. Guess it has been that kind of season. Thrilled to win the little jug.

Let see... there was one more game this weekend.

Shady Brady and company barely escaped the Redskins...

And oh yes there was one more game...

Seems this poor confused fellow is trying to attempt the chomp. You can tell he is amateur at chomping.

Yes, the Bulldogs were thrilled to beat the Gators. Too bad there weren't any stars mid-field for Bulldogs to stomp rather than chomp.

Mark Richt -- really, had to be commended. His game plan was perfect. Took advantage of Gators young secondary, got to Tebow...and honestly...that guy is really a pro.

I mean i need to know whether he does the body spray on tans or the lotions at home? I think he must go the professional route because no streaks in sight.

Yes, flawless Mark -- your game plan and game day tan.

I enjoyed watching the game with Ironman Rick and family. Well, honestly i enjoyed seeing Rick look so great. I didn't pay much attention to the game for the more the thing went on it was just making me rather mad-ish.

No, the Bulldogs won in 2007.

And i really don't have anymore to say on the subject.

oh -- i guess -- could say lots of stuff, but i would come off looking the poor sport.

So enjoy your year of victory Dogs.

Ugh!

You can't spell Ugh! without UGA. Well, it almost works. I'll just pretend it does.

No Greater Love...Mstones 9.16.07

2007-09-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

Dear All:

The Tennants taught a great class about a great woman who died 10 years ago.

This is a special picture. You may remember that they died within days of each other in August of 1997.

Wonder if Diana is asking Mother Teresa if she got her shoes at Nordstroms?

Our class discussion focused on Mother Teresa' s sayings and life. Most of the material from the book No Greater Love.

Ken and Angela distributed a detailed handout outlining Mother Teresa’s thoughts on these subjects: Prayer, Love, Giving/Sacrifice, and On being Holy.

There was plenty of Group discussion:

On Prayer: Karen, “We all want to make prayer about ourselves.”
Ruth, “We need to remember to start with Praising Him.”
Laree, “We need to remember to pray for the little things, not just call on God for the big things.”

Angela shared how Mother Teresa is being considered for sainthood (canonization) by the Catholic church. She explained that there are two groups involved in the investigative process. One that gathers all the positive and one that searches for things that could be considered negative.

Next week:

What has come to light are pages and pages of her handwritten notes to spiritual counselors and confessors throughout the 50 years of her ministry. (Mother Teresa asked that these be destroyed, but the church overruled her). These are now included in a book, Mother Teresa: Come Be My Light.

The Tennants handed out a very recent TIME article which focused on the content of this book – and this will be the discussion of the next week’s class.

In all candor, the excerpts of her writings from the piece are some of the most heartbreaking, emotionally-wrenching glimpses into a person’s life I have ever read. I honestly cannot imagine it. The torment that she was in, yet the life of sacrifice she continued to live.

I have just placed my order for a copy of the book.

She speaks of such darkness she lived in..crying out to feel God’s Presence.

“Lord My God, who am I that You should forsake me. The Child of your Love – and now become as the most hated one – the one – You have thrown away as unwanted – unloved. I call, I cling, I want – and there is no One to answer – no One on Whom I can cling – no No One – Alone….Where is my Faith.”

And that is a question for us all to consider this week.

Where is my faith when bad things happen? Where is my faith when i don't feel God's love like i did before?

Where is my faith when all i know is darkness and arid desert?

Is He still there?

Thank you Ken and Angela…great job. See you next week.

Prayer Requests:

Kathie Pendergraft was diagnosed with breast cancer this past week. Please keep her and her family in your prayers. We pray for complete healing and for the doctor’s wisdom in which course of treatment to pursue.

Julie shared that her Aunt Julie received some very good news from her doctor. Further tests revealed that her lung cancer has not spread to her lymph nodes as they previously thought. At this time, the cancer is all contained in one of her lungs. Julie gave a mighty praise for that answer to prayer. Let’s keep her in our thoughts as they proceed with her treatment.

Karen’s Aunt Barbara is now starting her chemo for her cancer. Please prayer for healing and peace during this anxious time.

Larry Coleman has been diagnosed with cancer. He is Beverly Hayes father. We pray for his treatment and healing.

Cheryl asked for prayers for her father as he has been diagnosed with lung cancer. Please pray for healing and strength for him and all family members.

Let’s all keep Alleyne, Tom and family in our thoughts.

Please keep Rita (Mary Ellen and Kevin Ramsey’s cousin ) in your prayers. She lives in Alabama and lost her only son Will who was 16 in a car accident just a few months ago. Please pray that she experiences God’s Presence and His love.

Last thoughts:

We never will understand all that happens on this earth. As evidenced by our prayer requests this week, there is so much physical pain and illness. And now it seems, Mother Teresa suffered with great emotional and mental anguish.

We never know what that person standing in line next to us at Walmart (right Marge) is living with, trying so hard to deal with. The depths of grief people are experiencing. Hiding deep inside their interior all the fractured mess that is their life at the moment. All concealed by a hold-it-together exterior shell.

There is private pain in all our souls and all around us.

We are to be His light…Always looking for the good in others. For we never will know what most people have overcome or are in the process of overcoming.

“Love each other as God loves each of you, with an intense and particular love. Be kind to each other.” Mother Teresa

God Bless, Good Week and

Be kind to each other………..

a link to the TIME article..http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1655415,00.html

Milestone 8.19.07 Whatever...

2007-08-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

"Behind every great man, there is a woman rolling her eyes." jim carrey

Dear All:

Our group on Sunday was huge. Really huge.

And that was a very good thing for it was a good day to have such a huge group in attendance. I guess everyone must have known that Butch Thompson and so many of those who had traveled to Honduras this summer and years past would be in our midst.

Butch started his presentation with the statement that it had been “the most amazing trip to Honduras” they had experienced – "but not necessarily the easiest."

The Bible School crew (including Heather, Laree, Stephanie and Jesse Robinette)had prepared for 150 – think by Friday they had 516. Yes, that’s 516. In a big room about the size of our classroom except – no air!!!!!

Then the construction crews were digging through rock with a little of sand thrown in, mixing the cement on the ground then carrying it in five gallon buckets to the house they were working on. And they also helped build a chicken coop.

I know I can’t begin to explain all that they did – and I know some of what I’ve transcribed is incorrect (except I’m sure the 516 is right). But watching and hearing the reports of the trip, two things struck me.

First thing, was how every year, I think 14 groups go from North Georgia Conference. And how after seven years things start to build on each other.

Butch showed us many of the finished projects. Homes, Churches, Food Kitchens, Kitchens, helping the local craftsmen and artists find ways to market their creations, and on and on.

And secondly yesterday out on my daily “couch time” run, Steve Curtis Chapman’s song came on iPod (in between Disco Duck and the Monster Mash). And I couldn't help but think, it so applied to what we had heard from those on the trip…

“I made a list, wrote down from A to Z
All the ways I thought that You could best use me
all my strengths and my abilities
I formed a plan it seemed to make good sense
I laid it out for You so sure You'd be convinced
I made my case, presented my defense
But then I read the letter that You sent me
It said that all You really want from me is just…

WHATEVER… "

Yes, we can plan to build houses certain ways, plan on so many children for bible school..and then we come up against a bunch of events that make it all look like….God? Hey... i'm trying to do my best down here. What do you really want?

(okay – since I haven’t ever been to Honduras that is total editorial comment) But Butch recounted example after example of how over the years they thought one way was the best way to do something…but when that failed …God showed them just the opposite.

And you know they didn’t say – wait, God – that’s not how we planned it. They just said…

"Whatever, whatever You say
Whatever, I will obey
Whatever, Lord, have Your way
'Cause You are my God, whatever "

If you want to see John Miles go crazy, it’s usually when I just look at him and say “Whatever.”

I’ve tried to break myself of that bad, annoying habit. Because truth be told when I say “Whatever..” with rolled eyes and exasperation, it really means, this is what I think about this…and you obviously don’t agree.

My “Whatevers” are not acquiescing …they're are not to be taken as agreement (or in anyway changing my opinion on the subject)

But this S.C.Chapman song is talking about a completely opposite attitude of “Whatever.”

….Whatever it takes, however hard it is… i will bury my pride, opinion and ego. And follow YOU.
And that’s what the Honduran crew did….talk to them about their experience --- it was amazing.

Yes, some days it is so easy to roll my eyes and say, "whatever.." But the Godly "whatever" speaks of something entirely different. One that has forgotten about opinions, being right in decisions and caring passionately about having one's own way at expense of all else... needing one's life and service all planned out.

"In the Christian life, godly influence is never conscious of itself. If we are conscious of our influence, it ceases to have the genuine loveliness which is characteristic of the touch of Christ. We always know when Jesus is at work because He produces in the common place something that is inspiring."

Oswald Chambers

Announcements

Shelly Massey gave a treasurer's report. We have $4,812.98 in account.

We some of the ways MClass monies have been distributed..
Kids Camp in Athens, Taylor Kinchen fund, UGA Heroes, Honduran Fund, Appreciation gifts given to all Sunday School teachers last week. The women received lovely Pure Bliss notions. The men Georgia coffee cups - with all due apologies to Scott Webb who is huge Clemson supporter.

Prayer Requests

Please pray for Karen Griffith's sister, Becky Foy. She is still dealing with autoimmune problems. They have moved from RI to VA (please wave at the Angels for us). She needs help finding a new doctor. We pray for the perfect physician and that they will have new insight in how to help her body heal.

Keep Ruth's father in your prayers. He was hospitalized for diverticulitis and they discovered an aortic aneurysm. He is coming home from the hospital today. But will have to receive treatment on the latter in near future. Ruth is traveling to Florida today for a few days -- so keep all in prayers.

Meredith Hollaway asked for prayers for a friend's child, 5 month-old Ashton. There is a growth in his neck that they weren't initially concerned about -- but now it is getting bigger and they are going to do test. They are fearful it is cancerous. Please pray for peace in this very anxious time and complete healing.

OKAY ---

God Bless, Good Week and

"So strike a match, set fire to the list
Of all my good intentions, all my preconceived ideas
I want to do Your will no matter what it is
Give me faith to follow where You lead me
Oh, Lord, the give me the courage and strength to do ... Whatever....."

(i really wish i could pump music into these thing -- no... that might create all other kinds of problems) j

Thanks from the lovely Feather Whidby...

2007-08-14T14:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Milestoners –

I’m not big on emailed thank you notes, but I didn’t want to miss anyone. So, I’ve asked Jamie to put this on the class blog. Thank you, thank you for the wonderful goodie bags that you gave the Honduras bound group. The contents were wonderful entertainment, helpful gadgets and much needed snacks. Not to mention spiritual nourishment to know that you were praying for us while we were gone.

It was an experience I will never forget, and I highly recommend the trip to everyone. I can’t wait to see you all Sunday and enjoy the presentation Butch will give. Have a great week – God speed – heather

Those Black Limousines keep on comin'. Milestone 8.12.07

2007-08-13T06:18:00.000-07:00

"Well, those cars never seem to stop comin'.

Keep those rags and machines hummin."

(i just learned something -- of all the millions of times i have listened to that song -- i always thought it was keep those black limousines hummin'. Go Figure.)

What to do car washes and Promotion Sunday have in common?

i have no idea. If you do please share it with me --but i just went through the car wash this morning.

All weekend long HKate was begging me to go for she loves to go through the car wash -- it just didn't happen.

So today, dropping the kids off i noticed my fuel level was perilously low. This caused trip to Pilot (i just can't face that Race Trac madhouse). On way back, i saw the car wash and pulled in.

Waiting there with no music -- XM signal lost in car wash shoot -- i started looking at all the stuff cascading off my car and down my windshield.

It was really dirty.

Then i pulled through and WOW.

Everything looked so Bright and Cheery!!! Even that new place to buy gas they are putting in at Ingles which looked so deary and depressing when i drove by it the first time this morning.

I had no clue how incredibly dirty my windshield was -- the whole world looked soooo much better.

And then it hit me. A big bug -- right smack in the middle of my nice clean, beautiful windshield. No, not really --just kidding re bug. But something else did hit me.

That's how my eyes and my heart get. Slowly but surely, life and the world deposit stuff on them -- day in and day out. The grime gathers so imperceptibly, i don't know how much stuff is clouding my perception (or reception from God).

That's why i need to set my alarm, set my coffee pot and get out of bed.

(Here i am this morning. --

Funny some Cezanne fellow just happened to be walking by with his easel. I invited him in for a cup and he captured me at my most introspective.)

Yes, i do need to get up and meet God and let Him talk to me.

Crack open the bible and let it speak to me. To get rid of my accumulated film.

(i think film sounds more dainty than grime or dirt -- Though looking at my portrait i look well-scrubbed and quite sturdy. But looks are very deceiving as to what is really going on in our hearts.)

And you know what's really cool is that what He needs to tell me is completely different than what he needs to tell you -- but He is sooo ready to meet us and talk over a great cup of coffee.

Okay -- enough of car washes, sturdy women and a great cups of joe.

Sunday School promotion. Yea!!!

Many thanks to all our teachers who can't be with us adults every week -- but you are doing most important job.

3 year olds (Sydney Griffith, Joe Miles and Steven Speyer) -- Ms Bonnie
4 year olds -- Ms Ashley

Kindergarten -- Laura Margaret and Shelby M.

1st grade -- Jennifer B. and Betty W.

2nd grade -- Chele Hoopengardner and Stacy

3rd -- Lisa W.

4/5th -- Aubey and Scott (stars in your crown my boys -- that is some class)

Middle school -- Teresa W.

High School -- Barry U.

Thanks so very, very much! Have a great year.

Next week: Honduras.

In the interest of being able to spend most of our time on program, please forward prayer requests and announcements ahead http://www.gatrjam@aol.com/. Lord willing, i will have them typed and presentable for viewing so we won't take up first 35 minutes of class on that type of discussion.

God Bless. Good Week and

i just listened to it 3 times on my run... it has to be Black limousines. or maybe i just so want it to be? Really, who's to know.

I'm a Pick'n and I'm a Grin'n. Mstones 8.5.07

2007-08-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

August 6, 2007.

School has started, our Honduran missionaries have returned and A Star is Born.

All I can say is that those of the Milestone faithful who were unable to be in our circle on this past Sunday missed it…I mean they really missed it.

We had a bona fide performance on Sunday…now I seem to remember a visit to our classroom by a certain long ago Reformer who spoke Deutsch wearing a wicked-looking black cape.

Well, I guess yesterday's visitor was a performance or maybe this character was for real?

Or maybe he was just some poor Hee Haw extra that has been running around trying to get a gig ever since they cancelled that show 20 billion years ago.

Yes, these two look like the theologian who wandered into our midst Sunday taking a stop on his travels to somewhere to pick up a mule. Elmer T. Loudermilk was his name.

And i guess he kind of favored the guy on the left or maybe the one on the right -- but both of their teeth are way too purdy to be Elmer's the poor fellow.

But he really was the nicest guy and Shelagh my seatmate managed to capture his image on her cell phone-- if you think i might be telling a tale.

Yes, Elmer had us all on the floor in our Sunday finery.

We were all laughing that hard or we were on the floor just trying to raise our jaws off of it.

But there was something familiar about him.

Last Sunday, July 29, Mary and Jim Devane had most ably taught class on the importance of setting a Godly example for our children. And this Sunday after quite an impressive stand-up routine (Buck Owens really couldn't have done it any better) this Elmer fellow also gave us a little theology on parenting.

Now i was still picking my jaw up off the floor (and not taking very good notes) when Shelagh elbowed me and prompted me to take Elmer's counsel down. And it was very good advice...and the Lord knows i need it.

See here's a bird dog. Some type of hound. And Elmer was telling us lots of stories about a great hound of his.

And he shared with us how (sorry, Elmer can't remember her name) was it Mae Lilly? No, for goodness sakes, that was Elmer's wife.

Well, any way this great dog was a birder of the highest order. And we learned how a good bird dog models good birder behavior for the young pups coming along.

(and this is what Shelagh had me write down.)

Patience -- in the field

Passion -- for the hunt

Persitance

That's how we need to model the Christian walk for our children. The Gospel According to Elmer T. Loudermilk. So there.

Anouncements

Next Sunday is Promotion Sunday. Milestone Class will meet in Sanctuary. Information will be disseminated on the Wednesday Night Claim Name Class.

The Honduras team is back. Yea! We learned that there was a teacher's strike last week (kids with time on their hands) and that our group had 150 children for VBS from 9 to 12 and 230 children from 1 to 4. No sweat!

They also helped build a house for the mission coordinator. We look forward to a full report 2 weeks from now.

Prayer Requests

Julie Speyer's Aunt Julie (her mother's sister) has been diagnosed with lung cancer. The prognosis is very favorable. We pray for the Lord's hand to be in all her treatment for complete healing.

Julie Hughes' Aunt Sarah fell and broke her hip. We pray for her recovery and strength during the healing process.

Ross Mason had a very serious bike accident riding the Silver Comet. He is experiencing paralysis at this time. He is in Atlanta at Shepherd's. We pray for his complete recovery.

Alleyne is going to Athens for a second opinion with doctors there. We pray for the Lord's mighty healing hand on her body. Protect and keep all family strengthened during this time.

Melissa Fitzgerald's cousin, Dusty, was in a serious car accident in Alabama. Please heal and comfort him and family. The family had suffered the loss of another child in a car wreck many years ago, and this is very, very difficult for all.

Okay --

Next week: Sanctuary

Following week: Butch Thompson and Honduras Crew!

God Bless. Good Week and

this just looked really cold.

Mstone 5.13.07....WOW, i did that?

2007-05-14T06:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated Mother's Day to all Mad Milestone Moms!

Confession: Last night sitting on porch with husband -- the crying of 2 younger Miles' children still ringing in my ear -- i was feeling tad sad, a wee failure of a Mother's Day mother.

Problem: We had really tried to squeeze too much into day. Too many Kodak moments planned and our little digitals ran out of batteries.

Query: Why couldn't i be more positive, strong -- Super Jamie!

Today: Okay, after good night's rest both the 2 wee crying Miles and my minor mother's day moment were distant memory.

Yes -- positive, strong -- Super jamie is back.

Well, it is just a little before 10 a.m. i should be able to stay hale and hearty for at least 2 more hours. Till noon, when i have to pick up sweet Joseph.

Then i thought of Ruth -- the Ruth of Terry's lesson.

Yes, Ruth Bearden we missed you in class and spent entire hour discussing , delving into our subconscious, and discovering how you are perfect mother we all are trying to emulate.

Okay -- maybe that just applied to me.

In class, we actually talked about the Ruth found in the book of Ruth as in the bible.

How looking back at her life (everything) every seemingly insignificant moment built on every other seemingly insignificant moment and --

WOW!

Eureka: she was King David's great-grandmother.

So much of the day-in-day-out of life doesn't seem to matter. In fact, it can be down right discouraging. But we've got to "Ruth-anize" our life.

Look at the big picture...This applies to us all...those who are moms, not moms, dads, not dads.

All this has a purpose!!!

and if God is in control of our lives we can be used in miraculous ways. Most of which (i am sure) we will never know in this short life time.....

Okay -- that last burst of energy was about all Super jamie had in her tank so must wrap up this report with...

Prayer Requests.

Continue to keep primary student Taylor Kinchen in your prayers. She is at Egleston for extended stay for treatment of brain tumors. We all pray for strength for Taylor and her family and complete healing.

Morgan Mason is having CT scan today to make sure everything is all right after very hard blow to her head in a horse incident. We pray all looks encouraging.

Keep Mark Rolling in prayers. He is staying at Emory as he continues to face major struggles with diabetes.

Alleyne Wommack asks for continue prayer as she faces the additional challenge of physical therapy in addition to her chemo. We ask special prayers of healing and recovery for her body.

Keep Mary's nephew in your prayers. That wildandcrazyguy just can't stay on the ground for long. He is due to report to airborne training soon.

Announcements.

Clean-up Service Day. All families are asked to meet at church at 8:30 on Saturday 5/19 to go and have great time help Nita Huff with some yard work.

We all enjoyed meeting Stephanie Dickson's mom, Adel Washington. My only wish is that she could have cooked up something for us -- maybe next time?

VBS -- June 4 thru 8. UP, UP and Away... We need a few more good men and women to help out.

contact: Julie sjspeyer@earthlink.net or Laree llzant@yahoo.com

Relay for Life ...
May 18 Relay for Life Fundraising Event 706-549-4893

Diana Blanton asked to spread the word, the word being that the Blanton boys have outgrown BlantonCentral. They are putting their lovely Park Lane house on the market. For info on sale of contact: dblanton@communicomm.com

That's all i have....

God Bless, Good Week and remember..

Not to look at each irritating grain of sand that life might blow our way under a microscope...

Try to think of looking at your life like you were looking at the Grand Canyon.

Some how when we step back and look at it all again someday --

it's going to make sense.

like -- WOW -- i did that? (with God's help)

Milestone 4.22.07 Crazy About Olives

2007-04-22T23:56:00.000-07:00

It was really such the beautiful day. So lovely in fact that the SS group decided, “What the heck?” let’s just hop a plane to Tel Aviv.

We found nice accommodations here at the Tel Aviv Hilton. And Steve managed to get an impressive 25 yards in the pool. It was very nice having class poolside -- but honestly -- the glare from the bright Israeli sun made our video monitor a little hard to see.

Yes, it was quite miraculous that we all made the trip and were back in Madison in time for dinner. So those of you situated in various exotic locals for spring break – you missed out. Not to sound slightly petty or in anyway jealous of the fact that some Millstones might actually be at the beach the moment I am typing this.

Actually it was perfect day for a bike ride...which hope you were doing Joe Cardwell, as you have very, very long bike ride ahead of you. and swim and run. Maybe Mstones could find a bike through the Holy Lands tour. Now there is a thought. Maybe?

Ray Vander Laan opened class this week – at an ancient olive press at Capernaum. Which was Jesus’ base of operations the three years of His earthly ministry. Capernaum – not the actual olive oil production plant. As I seem to remember he was fond of woodworking – not oil trading.

That big stone with the hole in middle was the millstone that initially crushed the olives.

It was all very interesting to those who missed. It really was. You see olive oil was used throughout time to anoint kings – and tons of other stuff. It was basically their petroleum of today. So you might have 10 olive trees – but the person with the millstone and press held all the power.

Isaiah 11:1
“There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse,
And a Branch shall grow out of his roots…”

See, we learned that when an olive tree gets very old and not producing any fruit anymore…say about 43…they cut the tree way down, so far down that it is just the stump. Ouch. Sounds quite painful.

Then out of this stump a new olive branch springs forth – one that produces good fruit. But this new branch is connected and will be forever connected to the old preexisting roots. There is also grafting in of new growth that can be done as well. (I think the graft part is us.) And 43-year-old stump is the Jewish people.

At least that is how my very poor notes read. i just kept absentmindedly staring out the window at beautiful day...and thinking of all the great places people must be.

Just kidding...kind of....Lots of other very interesting symbolism was discussed about the actual procedure of the pressing of the olives by the Gethsemane (the big pillar) that crushes the olives to release the oil.

Very good start to our series. But for some reason -- i really, really am craving a great big salad for lunch.

1/3 Cup Balsamic vinegar
2/3 Cup olive oil
1 Clove Garlic, minced
1 Tablespoon Minced parsley
1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 Teaspoon Salt
1/8 Teaspoon Freshly ground pepper

Well, i might not be at the beach...but at least i've got that to look forward to.

That and what looks like another beautiful day poolside with the kids. As it has now at some point in typing morphed into Monday morning.

Prayer Requests

Rick Spence’s grandmother passed away Friday. She was his father’s mother. Please keep all in your prayers.

Now no one seemed to have the exact news – but all that we were able to cull together was very positive about Ryan Pagett. He might be coming home today (Monday). If anyone has update please make known to all.

Saltwater Bob asked for prayers for the lovely Saltwater Cheryl is heading to Las Vegas. Though the weather looks to be rather squirrelly there first part of week – rest looks sooo warm. Rather sunny and hot. You would think it was some type of desert or something.

God Bless and Good Week

and Good Olives

all travel back safe to Mad....

It was a very Blustery Day! Mstones 4.15.07

2007-04-15T13:48:00.000-07:00

Trivia: What significance does the number 42 have with today -- Sunday, April 15, 2007?

Hope it is not amount you owe in taxes times 10.

And no, it is not the average mph of the wind gusts out there.

I love intimate gatherings. And i really felt meeting in the parlour gave us that intimate party feel. Good vibes always happen when everyone is crowded together. i think anyway.

Rapture or no? We did all get that Left Behind feeling when Tim and Brother Jim disappeared before our very eyes. Come to think of it i haven't seen them since. I wonder?

Well, guess if you are reading this you are either:

a. bored, and getting more so by second,

b. really hate the thought of exercising against hurricane force winds and polar windchill (that's me)

c. or you like the rest of us Milestones (except Tim, Jim -- and "good grief" come to think of it -- where was Steve Speyer?) have been left behind to serve him another wonderful week here in Madison, Georgia.

Okay --

We are starting great series lead most ably by http://bobdickson.com/

It is going to be video series and discussion. Holy Land tour by Ray Vander Laan.

Bob said for us to think about biblical references to trees, vines and general agriculture/vegetation fun.

oh dear -- i just had a most unfortunate thought about the disappearance of Tim, Jim and Steve.

Anyway -- Here's the drill. The videos will start promptly at 10:05 a.m. http://bobdickson.com/ has bought a special timepiece that he will use each Sunday to keep us on track. We watch video -- then we talk. that's that!

Hope to see you all there!

Prayer Requests:

Bonnie Hickey's sister got a very encouraging report from the doctor's at the Mayo Clinic. They did remove part of her liver, but all the tumors biopsied were benign. There are lesions that remain, but they hope that they mirror the ones which were removed. She is scheduled to go back in six months. Keep her in your prayers.

Barbara has a contract on her house. We pray that the inspection goes without incident and things proceed along swimmingly through closing. She is now looking for another place for them to live.

A quaint, cosy cottage would be perfect. Okay -- that's my idea of perfect. A cottage nestled deep in an enchanted forest....Hannah Kate thought this place magical.

Hmm..maybe that's were Tim and Brother Jim have run off to. Yes, maybe they needed a little R&R in an enchanted forest. just a thought.

Shelly's mom's back surgery when very well. Please keep her in your prayers during the recovery process.

Darlena, Shelly's neighbor, started her chemotherapy this week. We pray for mighty healing and strength during this treatment.

Pure Bliss -- Jule's new fabulous spa/shop soon to open in downtown Madison.

Please keep her in your prayers as now seems Steve has disappeared and how on earth will she get all that work done alone?

JohnM is on the books for the first facial.

Hey...wait a minute, looks like i might of found Steve. Seems like he takes this Presidential thing seriously.

Not that there's anything wrong with it.

Right ladies, we want all our Mguys to stay beautiful!

Maybe Pure Bliss can provide facials during the down time at the FUMC's men's retreat? just a suggestion.

Happy Anniversary to Heather and Ben Whidby. Married today, April 15.

Homework:

Bob asked for all to think about biblical symbols of trees, vines, and vegetation, grafting, etc. My notes also refer to some he said re reproduction. Hmmm..I think it might be best if Stephanie handles that.

Okay -- speaking of trees, i do pray that all stay rooted in this wind. And all be safe spring break.

God Bless. Good Week. j.

Just a Wee Spec of something....Mcrowd 3.11.07

2007-03-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

Dark

that is the way it was when my alarm when off this morning.

because the time had changed overnight.

Adding an hour of darkness to our mornings and subtracting an hour of darkness from our early evenings.

Milestone Central

We had a small, intimate crowd today -- which was great. As i am one to like the occasional small, intimate crowd. We broke into smaller groups and shared a point in time that we "had felt God's presence."

The lovely Rebecca Gill and i shared a moment... as did all the gathered with their pairings.

John Miles, our teacher for the day, then suggested that is all we really need to do to witness. Just share God's reality in our lives with others.

We got into big circle again -- then got into small groups again. Talking and Sharing. Sharing and Talking.

Then we got in our circle one last time. At this point, am sure John was giving some great meaningful recap because i was vaguely aware of heads nodding, etc.

But i have confession. I was transfixed by another. Totally and completely transfixed. i could not take my eyes off this tiny spec in the carpet.

i tried to focus on other things, but my eye was drawn over and over to this tiny spec of green glitter in that very uniform (nice, functional) industrial carpet of our very cavernous classroom.

The light was hitting it perfectly.

It shone like the most beautiful, sparkling bobble. i so wanted to run and pick it up. i just had to stare at it.

It was a compulsion really. It was the most beautiful light -- of all else in that huge room -- my eye was drawn to it. A spec of green glitter.

okay -- that is really weird.

But then it hit me. That's what a true witness for God does.

If we let go of all our stuff, when we can truly feel loved, forgiven, humbled and empty of self -- all we do is shine and reflect His light and glory. It's effortless.

People are drawn to it. The light from us. Compelled to stare at it. Want to run and pick it up.

That little spec of glitter was a nothing. As most of what i attempt to do in my strength, might and pride. But when the glitter perfectly reflected light -- it became as a tiny super nova.

It is dark out there.

Just as this morning was and (no slight intended) our very industrial, functional classroom carpet.

We are to be the reflections. The glitter. Not trying in our might, but just being who we are, placed right where He wants us, sitting and basking in His perfect light.

I loved that little spec.

Thanks johnny. i love you too. My little green spec of sorts.

Prayer Requests and Announcements

i am so sorry -- i just realized i left my sheet of note paper in our classroom. as much as i would like to steal back and see if my little spec of glitter is there, alas i can not. It is almost lunch time and the children are starting to rumble.

So here goes from memory..

The Massey's neighbor came through her breast cancer surgery last week with the very encouraging news that the cancer was not in her lymph nodes. She will still have to have chemotherapy. Please continue to pray for her complete healing.

Please keep Mark Rolling in your prayers as he did have part of a leg amputated resulting from his ongoing challenges living with diabetes. Please pray for strength and comfort at this time.

A little bird just flew in (and there he is -- we had nice little chat as he was perched on my computer screen)and Mr. Robin told me that Chanin presented the Church with our Cookbook earnings/Building Fund offering at 11 a.m. service.
$4000.00!!

Thanks so much to our very hardworking cookbook committee.
Stephanie Dickson, Margaret Ligon, Laree Zant, Shelagh Reitman, Kristie Gasque and Shelly Massey. (Please let me know if i forgot anyone)

Dena Lewis is recovering from her surgery. Take it easy please, Dena.

Saltwater Bob is in transit back to Madison as we speak. Please keep him in prayers.

Please keep Jean Ann Wacker in your prayers in her breast cancer recovery as well.

Love and safe journeys to all Mstones breaking far and wide from our dear Mad this week.

God Bless, Good Week --

and Go step outside and smell Spring.

it's so trying to spring it's little self forth.

"Do you swear to tell the Truth, the whole Truth and nothing but the Truth?" Mstonehenge 3.4.07

2007-03-06T06:58:00.000-08:00

Milestone Class ...3.4.07

Witnessing.

What does the term witnessing mean?

What images are flashing through your mind?
Am sure lots of different things. Many, Many different things.

Each one of us has a mental concept of the word witnessing made up of everything we have experienced in life up to this point. The good and the bad.

Did we attend church growing up? Who our parents were? Where we were raised? Our God given personalities? Events -- traumatic and wonderful all make up what we think of the act of witnessing.

Refresher... Matthew 28: 18-20. The Great Commission.
"Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations." v. 19

John Miles opened class with this quote.

"Oh, the unmitigated curse of controversy? Eschew controversy as you would eschew the entrance to hell itself! Let them have their own way. Let them talk, let them write, let them correct you, let them traduce you. Let them judge and condemn you, let them slay you. Rather let the truth of God itself suffer than that love suffer. You have not enough of the Divine nature in you to be a controversialist." Alexander Whyte.

Seems that we had great small group discussion on this point. And tried to have some discussion in class.

Think John is going to open up with this notion again.

The point was raised that isn't it the more loving thing to do for an individual to defend The Truth/God's Truth to their contrary arguments? So that there is no misinterpretation on their part.

And if we love God and would do anything for Him -- how can we let anyone make fun of, make sacrilege, or bitterly refute His existence?

Some folks like to argue. And there is nothing more they look forward to than to put Christian folk in their place.

To challenge them, to show them that their faith, their God and their bible is nothing more than a fairy tale weakly Christians want to be true because they can't deal with
reality.

Yes, angry, argumentative folks.

Guess there are nonbelievers and Believers who are angry, argumentative folks.

And as i am now quite aged, i have observed few thing about our human condition.

Usually the angrier and more vehement a person is -- the more they are desperately hurting. Something or someone has irreparably seared their soul. And some of those hurts are buried so deep and so protected that their hearts have been encased by steel forged in bitterness.

What is the key to melting that seemingly impossibly frozen soul? i don't know? Guess we better think.

So what about your witness?

Often the people that are the most unpleasant to be around are probably the ones who most want the fairy tale to be real. They just would never ever admit it -- even to themselves.

But they are watching and taking note. And lots of them are very, very smart. (code: impossible for a simpleton like me to persuade through argument.)

Anywho......

See you next Sunday. John will be back...i think. No, he will be.

Prayer Requests and Announcements

Officers.. Yes, it is that time of year again. Calling all would be officers. We need a few good souls who will step up and lead the Mstone crowd for 2007

President
Mission/Outreach
Curriculum

Treasurer

Social
Sunday Morning refreshments coordinator (okay -- just a suggestion)

Keep Jean Ann Wacker in prayers for breast cancer.

The Massey's neighbor is also battling breast cancer.

Dena Lewis as she recovers from her surgery.

Mark Rolling and his health as keep struggles with diabetes.

Henry Verner passed away last night. Please keep his family in your prayers.

Karen's sister's knee surgery went very well. And the doctors are making progress on her immune system problems that are affecting her joints.

G'day Mates... let's keep the globe trotting Bob Efird in our prayers as he is visiting the land down under. He will be traveling back on Monday.

Chicken BBQ for church 3/18. Hurrah! Buy those tickets. i was wondering when one of these wonderful chicken Sundays would come around again.

God Bless, Good Week and

Go Forth and live your life as a witness for the Truth.

Mstones 2.25.07 -- "Out of Africa" or "In to Africa" or is it "In to Honduras" or "In to Madison"? I'm Confused.

2007-02-27T06:49:00.000-08:00

As a rule i am not a "forwarder." Lots of you are probably questioning veracity of that statement. But that said, i have enjoyed the email going round lately "Here's a few things about me."

i learned Margaret was once a waitress at Ye Olde Colonial, Ruth and i like lots of the same things and Mexican seems to be somewhere on everyone's favorite food list.

As i was pondering who to "forward" my little questionnaire to, i decided most all of Mad had seen it. Looking through my vast address book (all 10 people who aren't SS), I gathered a bunch of names on the "send to" line. Before i could press "forward", the Lord popped Mary Kay in my mind.

Mary Kay, a former Peachtree Road Methodist SS friend. Now back then, i didn't think we had tons in common as most late 20s people do in passing judgement on things. We were just different. She was extremely smart (designed water waste treatment facilities for starters). She and her husband Charlie met in graduate school at Stanford.

Ten some odd years later, she and husband and 2 boys are in Ghana. She is using all her smarts in helping them with one of the most basic things we take for granted -- clean/purifying water to drink. Something most villages don't have. They became missionaries, and have been there 6 months. It just occurred to me she might be missing us or "US" as in the United States.

Guess who was the first response back i received. Mary Kay from Ghana, West Africa and it was great to hear from her.

Missionaries in Africa. I have a longtime friend -- Tracy -- from same SS class at Peachtree Road. Whenever our husband's had some crazy idea, we always used to say, "Well, at least we're not in Africa." Because 15 years ago, one of our Peachtree Road friends, Claire, went with her husband and family and they are still there.

Guess the joke was on Tracy, for she also has gone to Africa. Funny, lots of us in that tiny SS class in that huge church, ended up in Africa.

Well, we all have ended up in Madison, Georgia at least for the time being.

But what is our Africa -- what are we supposed to be doing for God?

Last Sunday, February 25 (where did Feb. go?) Butch Thompson visited our class.

Butch has been one of the driving forces behind all the wonderful outreach our church has done in Honduras. It was great! He gave a detailed recounting of how the Lord has worked miracles in growing this ministry. Am so sorry for all who missed.

The Great Commission -- "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you." Matt. 28: 19 - 20

I loved what Bruce said.

Question: What does Christ mean when he spoke of "all nations."

Answer: "Just walk outside the door." "Reach out to people who need Christianity." Whether that be Ghana, Honduras or a child at MC Middle School in desperate need of Godly mentor.

Terry is smart guy. See, i finally am kind of getting it.

We took these Spiritual Gift tests. Now we've been pointed to some of Christ's last earthly words which command us to go forth and use those Gifts.

That sounds a little scary and ever so slightly overwhelming -- but i am a timid soul at heart.

But then i read this.
"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in Him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." John 15:5

A piece of cake. We just have to abide. To remain. I can do that. I picture myself lying on a raft in the middle of the calmest, bluest ocean drinking up the sunshine. (i'm not even wearing sunscreen, well maybe a 15 -- okay, who am i kidding the damage has already been done.)

The Lord will carry me along. i guess i do need to get off my raft and act,- but the point is that i don't have to strive. We just have to let go and let God place us where we need to be and the Holy Spirit will use our gifts.

Perfect. As i am not a planner. No need to plan. Hurrah!

So get ready to use those Gifts....(am sure you are already doing so, but i just needed a transitional phrase.)

1. Submit to God. easy.
2. Don't try to do it in our own strength. easy. stop striving. just abide.
3. Encourage each other. all our gifts are of equal importance and value.

Okay -- it really isn't that easy to let go of the control, but it really is so much better once we get the hang of it. Remember the raft.

Many thanks Terry and Many thanks Butch!

Next week: Terry and i think John M. too.

Prayer Requests and Announcements

Dena Lewis is having surgery on Friday 3/2. Let's see how we can help out with the children (Ron, Colson, and Bailey) while she is down for a while. We pray that the surgery and recovery go smoothly.

Karen's sister Becky is having knee surgery and there are concerns about an autoimmune disorder as well. Are prayers are with her healing.

Happy Birthday -- Mary (2/25), Kristie (2/22)

Laree mentioned very good article in recent TIME magazine laying out history of conflict between the Muslim sects.

God Bless, Good Week and

a. Go Forth to touch an individual for God,

b. Hey, looks like we could sign up for TriathlonWest Ghana ...anyone game?

joe, gills, bob, kristie, shelagh, kat?

i think even i could take the guy with bike flag and orange shorts.
(okay, that sounded meanish, but i do think i could take him.)

Milestones 2.11.07... Chocolate the perfect gift..

2007-02-11T10:58:00.000-08:00

Gifts.

Gifts are very funny things. At least to me. When our most excellent teacher T.Massey last taught us Mstones, the subject was love languages. I remember "gifts" was one of them. It seemed like in all my individual testing -- "gifts" was no where in my love language.

And in thinking about today's class i suddenly had an epiphany. Most of all the gifts i have ever received -- esp. as a child -- i really had to "act" happy about.

Now, i love to watch Joe open gifts -- he is ssooo happy!

What was my deal? Why was i always so inwardly disappointed?

Because for some reason i never, ever told anyone what i really wanted to receive. Why? That is very weird. I received very few gifts that i was really excited about because i just never had the courage to say what i really wanted. Now, that is very weird.

Thank goodness, i've gotten over that. but maybe that is why gifts (the wrapped kind) mean so little to me -- unless there is real thought behind it. like your little alligators Jules, and the little angel holding the child that you gave us Mary when we received Joe. If i receive a gift that really, really touches me -- however small it is, i never forget it.

Maybe that is the way it is with our spiritual gifts. Unless we truly get honest with ourselves about how we really are and let God speak to us -- we never, ever really learn what we were created to do.

At least for me it was hard even now to be honest taking that test. What did i like to do? What did i do well?

Not what should i do well?

What do others think i do well?

What would i really, really like to do well?

Often the things that are so natural to us we devalue. Like Terry saying he made all those telephone calls to round up people to complete the Living Christmas Tree at his old church. To him that seemed so easy -- for he is very people, very extroverted. But for me that would be hell.

i couldn't muster enough courage to "ask" my parents what i really wanted for a present -- rather than what i thought they wanted me to receive. How could it be natural for me to call people and ask them to do something when i really resented being asked to call in first place.

So go take Terry's test http://www.kodachrome.org/spiritgift/ -- and forward the result back to him. He's put a lot of effort in this, and you might learn something about yourself. (but of course, i probably am only one that is total Spiritual Gift head case, but as of today -- i now have that straightened out) hurrah!!!

The Methodist church has a good test and intro on Gifts that i looked at today...
http://www.umc.org/site/c.lwL4KnN1LtH/b.1355371/k.9501/Spiritual_Gifts.htm
Watching it, i realized that i needed to be honest with myself and find out what it is that God has specifically created me to do, darn it.

So what is it that when you do it for Him brings God honor, glory and great pleasure. What is it you do that makes God smile?

And like those human gifts given with all the thought, how much more consideration, love and perfection did the Lord use in choosing our specific gift? He wove it into our DNA before the creation for goodness sakes.

That made me think. just a little anyway.

So i took a few more of those tests this afternoon and really tried to be honest this time. And i came up with a new #1 spiritual gift that was not really mentioned first time. And it was consistently the same Gift on all the other tests i took today. Go Figure?

(i didn't take your test again Terry, only because it was 100 plus questions.) and i just didn't have energy. See, i am totally being honest.

Terry has put a lot of time in this. He is a great example of a committed servant to this church and more importantly to the Lord.

Let's all try to find sometime this week for a little positive and honest personal reflection. Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom in answering the questions. Then ask the Lord how you can be used to His glory in the church and community.

Terry will be back next week --

Prayer Requests

Please keep Chrissy Mitchell in your prayers. She was in a horse accident yesterday, and was flown to Atlanta for additional testing. Most thankfully, everything is alright.

Praise for the safe arrival (as in birth) of Jill and Kevin Meeler's new daughter Chapel Caroline. Yea!

Troy announced a need for a new person to run the computer/screen thing for Nine Alive. This would require a commitment during the service and about an hour during the week preparing materials for Sunday. Contact Troy if you are interested.

God Bless, Good Week and Go buy someone you love a Valentine.

and dark chocolate.

Did you see the ad that said a Special Dark chocolate bar contains as many antioxidants as 2 cups of green tea?

very intriguing....

for green tea always makes me slightly nauseous. With dark chocolate i don't seem to have that problem.

Just Five Minutes

2007-02-08T12:53:00.000-08:00

So simple. Just 5 minutes to email a childhood friend.

My 25th high school reunion last fall was great. No cliques in sight. Regina, our most dutiful class president observed, “We all are in our 40s now – it’s like everyone is comfortable with themselves. This is me; this is who I have become.”

And I had the best time talking with Dent Turner. I sat beside him in first grade and we shared the next 12 years of schooling. He lived in Virginia with his wife Tina (we joked about her being Tina Turner – with an equally gifted set of legs) and four beautiful children.

But it was hard not to notice that he walked with the help of a cane. Dent was battling a rare form of cancer. It had been in remission but had resurfaced. Yet he looked so good; his same smile. Our conversation finishing Dent added, “We’ll talk later – I want to meet your husband.” An odd remark for the party would wrap up soon. Stupid me, Dent was not going to be one to say goodbye. “Goodbye” implied finality.

I just couldn’t get Dent off my mind. Every week I lamented to my prayer partner, “I need to get Dent’s email from Regina, so we can get an update on his condition.” Each Tuesday Heather would ask, “How’s Dent? Have you written Dent?” My heart would sink at her questions for I hadn’t contacted him. But he looked so good. Everything must be fine.

This was getting silly. Yesterday, another Tuesday, I looked for
Dent’s email. I had lost the address; it figured. So I sheepishly asked our class president to resend it. Today, I eagerly opened her response. Regina’s reply contained the news that Dent had passed away a few days before.

Death is inevitable, but very hard to stomach sometimes. And so is the fact that I didn’t take 5 minutes two months ago to email a friend. I was just so busy. What would I say, “Dent, we’re thinking about you and praying for you.” It rang so shallow.

And what of that confident reunion banter on being comfortable with ourselves at 43. Must question self: What have I become? I’d like to imagine someone very big and brave. Well, I’m not really all that big or brave. And I’ve learned there’s something far worse than cowardice. The “I should haves.” No, guess cowardice and deeds undone are two sides of a fickle coin.

Foolishly, a coin that I hold unspent in my hand.

Milestones 11.28.07 Restoration Hardware

2007-01-30T10:57:00.000-08:00

I'm terribly sorry.

I am typing this rather late. Guess, not really so tardy from last Sunday. Just lots has happened in our little corner of world so it only seems that way.

All this to say that i have just pulled out my notes from class and due to time passage, poor note taking skills and probably too much chatting with neighbors Kristie and Joe R. I am --

well, a little confused as to their meaning. Just like x2 +y2 (x-y) = ?

i think i used to love that stuff.

But it must have been a fickle love for i have no idea what it means at moment. Kind of like some of my notes from Sunday. So here i go...

Do remember it was a great class. Bob.com did a great job finishing up Job. Sorry for all who missed it.

Do remember we started very, very tardy ourselves. But once class started......

We were finishing up our 4th week on Job. Remember..

Job was righteous.
He had all taken away.
Satan railed against him.
He repented.
What next? (this is where i get foggy)

Think Bob asked group something like:

Of all the suffering Job went through, do you think it would have been any easier if he knew that restoration would be the end result? That he would be made whole?

Pete: Spoke of loss of children being irreplaceable.
Kathryn: It would be easier to have faith, if you knew the end result.
Ron: Something would be much harder to endure, if you didn't know the end result.

Bob: How does that notion affect you personally? Suffering without knowing the end result.

Ron: If we knew the end result, we wouldn't place it in His hands.
Katie: Once you've been through something really big -- it is easier to trust Him with other sufferings.
Laree: Job didn't get everything back (his first children) so how could his pain have been made fully whole.

Cindy brought up observations she gleaned from a cancer ministry. Those with a knowledge of Christ had hope. Those with terminal illness and no Christ had no hope.

How it ends -- Rev. 21: 1-7

A childhood friend lost his earthly battle with cancer this week. Loving husband, father to 4 beautiful children -- and huge Gator (he enjoyed their recent national championship with relish!)

Have not been able to get him out of my mind. But rereading this passage helps. It helps a lot.

"Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth....God himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." v. 1,4

"no more death.." The word death here means separation. In spiritual terms...conscious existence in separation from God. All are born in this condition. But those who believe in Christ are delivered.

Restored.

Will live in spiritual communion with God forever.

There is no way (that i can see -- anyone free to comment) that we are going to be able to understand all the suffering that goes on in the world.

But the good news is that we can be restored now on earth, by belief in Christ -- then experience complete reunion with the Father in heaven where there will be more no suffering.

(guess all will be gator fans)

Great job Bob. Next week Terry with our Spiritual Gifts. All take those tests!

Prayer Requests

Please keep Rebecca's sister Kate in prayers as she is experiencing problems with her endocrine system and recovery from surgery.

Margaret announced that a long time family domestic employee needs to find other avenues of income (babysitting, ironing, etc.) due to shorter hours at her primary place of employment. Please call Margaret for info.

Keep the Zander family in prayers. They had the trailer that burned last weekend.

The Speyers ask for prayers for a coworker of Steve who has been diagnosed with stage 3 cancer.

Please keep Carol Bozeman and her family in your prayers on the passing of her father Sunday. The funeral was today in Elberton.

Keep Pete's parents in prayers as they will be traveling to Dark Continent to see Janice. Hope they are bringing lots of flashlights.

God Bless, Good Week and i never really was a very good note taker.

This was huge problem in law school with each class having one test every 12 or so weeks at end of semester. ugh!

(talk about suffering -- that was usually moment of sharing grades with parents.)

Milestone Minutes 1.21.07

2007-01-21T14:49:00.000-08:00

January 21, 2007

A very "Happy Birthday" to our very own Mark Smith today.

and God Bless him -- little Stevie wonder? Speyer will be 29 tomorrow (1/22). (My sincerest apologies Mark on cake selection if you are in no way affiliated with Bulldogs.)

Bob.com showed why he is the best in the computer biz with a neato powerpoint presentation on Job. We were in small groups. i did not care for my small group -- the Masseys, Lori, Rick, Cheryl and Katie. Such a nice little circle of friends you say, how could they be a contrary lot?

Well, let me tell you. They actually thought about this Job stuff and had a lot of great observations. Which i didn't like -- because it made me think.

And Job is really tough to contemplate if you ask me.

So if you weren't among the gathered here's the run down:

Why do bad things happen to God's people?
Why does evil exist in the world?
Does God allow/cause bad things to happen?

I really don't like those questions, but it seems as if those at my table being the much more mature lot -- discussed and came up with quite a few observations.

We turned to Chapter 38 which was God's first answer to Job.

"Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?" verse 4. Okay -- that's were it starts and goes on and on for 41 verses.

Terry commented that it shows us how little we know. Rick also brought up not only as individuals, but collectively as the human race. There is so much that we can't comprehend about God.

Job responds 40:4 -5

Then God challenges Job again 40:6-14.

Job's second response: "...But now my eye sees You,
Therefore I abhor myself,
And repent in dust and ashes." 42:5-6

God allows all to be taken away from Job -- possessions, family, health.

And Job becomes somewhat incensed and asks God question after question -- What did i do? How did i betray you to deserve this judgement?

Then God comes back at him with -- "I am." basically that is the gist of what He said.

And in the end -- when Job finally sees himself as he truly is in light of the enormity of God -- he is filled with self-loathing.

Or that is at least how i saw it -- and why i have been in fitful mood today. Well, that and the cold and rain. I mean what is it -- January?

Because in the end, in my humanity how am i any different than Job?

Why should i view myself in relation to God any different?

Of course, this afternoon my husband went on and on about how that is without Christ. But i don't know. Guess, i just won't think of it anymore today for the Colts/Patriots games is about to start.

Great Job or job Bob and thank you to my much-loved tablemates.

Btw -- Will have to pull for Peyton for that bad Tom Brady broke up with Bridget. Guess she's better off without him. the stinker!

Prayer Requests and Announcements:

Katie asked for prayers for Kathryn as they are doing more indepth testing to gain knowledge on how to proceed with her adjusted learning needs. We pray God's blessing on the entire process.

Terry brought up a family who had lost their home in a trailer fire yesterday. Please keep them in your prayers and i think we are investigating ways to help.

Bob's friend Dante is making adjustments to working world and he would appreciate your prayers. And he will come play Basketball with the church team this week. and that is a praise!

Praise...James Bearden is reigning state champ in 85 lb. division and Morgan County Bullpups were champs as well! hurrah!

okay -- there is my bestest buddy in whole entire universe Cindy Dickson finishing a blistering pace in the Atlanta Women's' 5k .

Everyone join the fun this year. Saturday, March 24. http://www.atlantatrackclub.org/at04003.htm

You look so cute -- Stephanie dear.

i on the other hand took such great pains to be so color-coordinated. But look at my gloves. One brown and one navy. I guess we did leave in a rush that morning and it was dreadfully cold.

But a good time was had by us ( as evidenced by Step's sweet smile and my grimace -- due entirely to the cold am sure, rather than any pained physical exertion)

and there is a Starbucks really, really close by for which i was very thankful.

Look at those little beauties all lined-up there in a row.

See why i am worried about this Job/God thing when i trauma over miss-matched gloves spoiling my race look or a little cold on race morning.

Oh well -- guess Bob will straighten things out for us and me next week.

God Bless, Good Week and

it's the Colts and da Bears.

Peter, Paul and Mary... Mstone 1.14.07

2007-01-16T08:51:00.000-08:00

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour."

1 Peter 5:8

"There's a fine line, between reckless and courage
It's about time, you understood which road to take
It's a fine line, your decision makes a difference
Get it wrong, you'll be making a big mistake."

Fine Line, Paul McCartney 2005

Peter, Paul and Mary... i really need a Mary, but don't have anything written down that you said Mary DeVane.

So just will have to go with Spongebob since yesterday was holiday and all the Bikini Bottom doings were in continual loop on Miles' television.

See Episode #66_, Spongebob stepped up to a fishhook just dangling. The yellow fellow wanted to hop on a take a ride so desperately.. But he boldly said aloud to the hook, "No...you're a liar, a deceiver..Mr. Crab said i have to stay away from you." then he defiantly marches off...

only to turn around seconds later and come racing to the hook with gleeful smile -- powerless to not hop on for a joyride ... and of course, he gets the hook caught in his very square pants. Oh Spongebob!

Well, our SpongeBob Dickson was the very able Mteacher yesterday for week 2 on Job.

subject...Satan

i am not going to post lots of pictures of the devil in this -- for in gazing over a few out there -- they are very creepy.

Yes, it was Satan who takes center stage in first part of Job. "And the Lord said to Satan, "From where do you come?" So Satan answered the Lord and said, "From going to and from on the earth, and walking back and forth on it." Job 1:7,8.

Once again, i think creepy and scary...that image of this figure prowling around...but enough of my editorializing...

Back to SpongeBOB.com.

Those who weren't there please ponder as the gathered Mfaithful..

"What comes to mind when you think of the devil," Bob asked..

Laree, "Fire."
Jules, "Lion imagery."
Pete, "C.S. Lewis' Screwtape letters."
Rick, "Something just enough to pull you off course."
Cindy, "He knows your weaknesses.'

Dianne spoke of Isaiah 14:12 "How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning."

Bob asked us all "how is Satan involved with our lives...what are his tools?"

Lots of discussion about Lucifer -- and his fellow fallen angels.

How much power he has over us verses how much we allow him to have.

In Job -- the Hebrew for Satan translates adversary.

When Christ is being tempted in the desert (Matt.4:1) the word in Greek means --- false accuser, slanderer.

In 1 Peter 5:8, devil = false accuser.

But the lion imagery might be more telling. Here the word "lion" in Greek was most probably figurative of the imminent peril of death.

Some supposed the reference to be the lions of the amphitheater. hmmm.

i really, really wouldn't want to be there.

So then must question self...Why do you leave any room for an adversarial assault? And it is such a fine line between some of those decisions we make...Well -- aren't we human after all?

Whatever or whomever this Satan is... one thing is for sure. Seems every reference to him is complete opposite to any reference of God.

liar/deceiver v. Truth
adversary v. Advocate
death v. Life

That can't possibly be good. So stay away from those dangling fishhooks and listen to Mr. Crab (or read your bible) ... no matter how fun you think the ride will be.

Next week: God's answer to Job. Many thanks Bob..

Prayer Requests and Announcements

Please keep Bob Efrid in your prayers as he is in Taiwan this week on business. He travels home Monday.

Praise for Pete's dad health. He will be able to travel to Africa to visit Janice in a few weeks. Aren't there lions in Africa? oh dear... but i guess Janice will look out after him.

Rebecca offered praise for her sister Kate's surgery. She seems to be doing much better. We pray that her body continues to respond to the removal of the tumor.

Margaret speaking for our very stupendous cookbook committee -- asked if we wanted to order more books to sell. The class needs a few good men and women to step up and offer to take on this project.

Feb. 10 -- Ferst Books Motown Madness. Cheryl Efrid for tickets.

"Puff, the Magic Dragon lived by the sea."

Guess Revelation tells of one big bad dragon that will one day be cast in to a sea of fire.

i know there are quite a few of you who don't get that reference -- anyway it was a song. Seems it was quite popular back when fire-breathing creatures roamed the earth.

God Bless, Good Week and that's not a CD it's something they called a 45. (which btw is not my age -- yet)

Personal Reflection. Mstones 12.3.06

2006-12-05T07:35:00.000-08:00

Yes, that was what first made my little head swivel Johnny's way.

He had a great smile.

What can i say, have always been sap for a guy with a great smile.

Well, John Miles, Jr. taught Mstones on Sunday.

He started with Philippians 2:3 "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself."

Humility.

i was sooo humble.

I had promised John that i would not interrupt while he was teaching class. Guess this verse really applied to me during that hour. And honestly, it was difficult at first -- but then i kind of zoned out so it really wasn't so hard.

Later on in day, here we were after rather large Sunday lunch.

i had to confess my SSchool space out to our most able teacher.

We were feeling rather large and john felt i was in need of lots of Bible U review, so we took off on extended jog.

So for 2 hours during our run around Mad, he regailed me with all that he said and all that you said. i don't know how 45 minutes of class turned into a 2 hour tutorial, but it did.

Then we came back and were very, very tired. So we napped in the sun.

i think joe joined us.

Ok -- here is what i gleaned from him.

Topic for next few weeks: Goal Setting.

Week One: Priorities. Philippians 2:1 -- 16

1. What is the purpose of your life?
a. For the Christian, God works in you to work out His purpose. v. 13

2. What is God's purpose for your life?
a. Have the attitude of Jesus. v.5

3. How can we have the attitude of Jesus?
a. Meditate on what He did. v. 6
b. Meditate on the result of what He did. v. 9 -- 11

4. What are the results of right priorities?
a. attitude -- comfort, fellowship, tenderness, compassion, unity. v. 1-2.
b. action -- service v. 3 and 14.

There it is. Johnny's notes. Oh dear, there is a slight problem.

See, i was telling a fib. He did not talk with me for hours about class. i just copied his notes.

And honestly, most of how i started note was fib, except that we ran on Sunday and i am sap for john's great smile.

Biggest fib was re Humility.

I thought i was most humble gal. Well, not exactly true either. But compared with raging example and defintion in verse 3. i fall quite short.

So think first step in this Goal Setting for 2007 is honest self evaluation.

Just looking at ourselves in the mirror.

Here i am as john walks through the door to spotless house,
3 spotless, silently adoring children,
and yummy dinner on spotless table.

ok -- i'll be honest. That's not me and that doesn't happen. ever.

But, here i was this morning in personal reflection while i getting ready for morning carpool.

Guess not really true either.

ok -- here's how i really am.

and if this is really what i feel like during personal reflection, how the heck am i going to figure out how to move forward?

Hopefully, we all have reached point in our lives where we realize we need God.

But question to you and to myself this week is: Do we realize that God needs us?

And He needs us not how we think we should be or
how we would like to be, but He needs us
how we were created to be.

So Who am I? Oh dear, now that is quite the poser.

Next week: Looking at our History? Where have we come from?

Prayer Requests and Announcements

Please keep Ben's brother Guy in your prayers. He is having tests run and they will keep us posted.

Christmas Party. Yes, unbelievably it is that time of year! All are to come to Couch's for tons of holiday cheer! Contact Kathyrn Cardwell if you still need name for Toy Swapish thing. bring something to eat. Jan/June -- salty July/Dec -- sweet.

Remember to stock up on M-cookbooks for gifts to all your loved ones.

Mark Dec. 17 down for caroling and supper at church (leave from church). Family Fun. ie.. no drop-offs Steve Speyers.

God Bless, Good Week and Good Night

i am sooo humble. i didn't mention the Gators' Good Fortune once.

Not another one lost? Mstones 11.26.06

2006-11-27T07:15:00.000-08:00

Laree gave us all so much to think about in how/what we give thanks for yesterday.

So when the alarm went off this morning, first thought was -- "Ugh! It's Monday."

But second thought was the need to start being thankful quick away like Laree and Heather encouraged.

Said thanks, then noticed Hannah Kate beside me in bed. Then remembered, of all the good stuff that happened over weekend -- the bad. Oreo (kitten number 3 in about as many months) had disappeared yesterday.

We think this happened while trying to haul Christmas tree inside.

This jailbreak resulted in lots of tears (John managed to regain his composure by night fall), but Hannah Kate has unfortunate inability to go back to sleep in middle of night without breathing rag-kitten to hang on to.

So i got up, got all off to school, had to make 2nd pot of coffee (how in world did John consume that much while i was gone?). Steve from Baccus dropped by, parents called for recap of Gator victory, so on and so on.

Almost 10 a.m. and dreadfully behind in all that i was to do. But needed to have quiet time and give more thanks. At least that had been plan when i got up this morning.

So settled down in chair and asked the Lord to let me be quiet and still, if just for these 5 minutes. So was quiet, calm, reading, writing and thanking.

Not 2 minutes into my quiet reflective thanks, i heard something. Tiny rustles. i poised pen and ear -- and most definitely heard tiny scratches. Followed the sound to a block of wood toy in Hannie's -- flipped it over and out sprung Oreo.

Poor guy had been trapped in there almost 24 hours -- from last sighting.

He is practically mute -- so couldn't hear his pathetic bleats.

Will resist temptation to draw inference how Hannah's treasured animal that she was calling for, desperately searching streets of Mad for was never 5 feet from her bed. As in -- What we really are searching for in life is right under our noses all along.

Or how much this whole event screams about the crazy, loud environment that our family exists. So much so that we couldn't hear a poor cat trapped under a 1 foot by 1 foot wooden coffin for 24 hours.

But i will just say that i am thankful that i did listen to Laree yesterday. And listen to the Lord this morning and take time out to be quiet. So i could really hear a mute, trapped cat.

Yes, for a moment of quiet -- i am very thankful.

Laree's Points in Mclass:
1. Thanksgiving is key ingredient to peace. Col. 3:15 (just ask Oreo)
2. Thanksgiving should be offered in all things. Phil 4:6
3. It is pleasing to God when we give thanks.
4.Thanksgiving should be offered fresh everyday. Psalm 118:24 (just ask Oreo.)

Many, Many thanks for great job Laree.

Next week: John Miles

Prayer Requests and Announcements

Please keep Leann Moss in your prayers as she recovers from back surgery.

Keep Garfield Chambers in your prayers. He will have surgery tomorrow for very serious injuries received in car accident. The family is in Indiana indefinitely.

Many, Many thanks to all Mstones who showed up and decorated sanctuary yesterday. Terry and Joe R. were masters up on those ladders with that tree -- and thought we could have lost Joe C. hanging those huge wreathes -- but all survived.

At least 20 m-members showed. very, very good job by all. And i will never, ever again in moment of space out in church think wreath or tree doesn't look adequately fluffed or perfectly hung -- right Kristie?

We will be selling cookbooks in front of Heritage Hall on Friday and Saturday. Also in Fellowship Hall during the lunch on Saturday. Those who would like to help please contact Stephanie or Shelagh.

Christmas Party, December 8 at Couch's. Draw name for toy to bring. Jan. -- June, appetizer. July - December, dessert. Childcare at church re Parent's Night Out.

God Bless, Good Week

and i am very thankful that i found our dear Oreo with my sense of hearing today and not my sense of smell a few weeks from now.

Birds of a Feather.......Mstones 11.19.06

2006-11-20T05:48:00.001-08:00

The most excellent Steve Speyer was our learned Mstone professor on Sunday.

He started off reviewing lesson from last week...

There was this 80 to 20 ratio thing which i will ignore out of ignorance for i never took a business class in my life. --

Ok -- In Steve's supposings there are 4 pivotal points in the bible.

Point #1

Creation: God made everything and it was good. Genesis 1

Point #2
Adam and Eve. Lots of F's here. Genesis 3

There was a Fall -- from grace.

That resulted in Fear.

Class discussion revolved around our Failings as humans. Stevo got a most excellent discussion flowing.

So sorry all who missed.

Steve got us thinking about our blessings. Discussion turned to ponderings if our blessings are always good things -- maybe, in the end they are the things keep us separated from true closeness with God.

They become our False Idols.

How do we live our lives Focused on God and not on things, people, approval, money?

Imprisoned.

Point #3

The Crucifixion: Luke 24:44

Steve said that all the events in bible from Point #2 lead up to and point to point #3. Jesus' incredible love for us that resulted in his choice to leave heaven, to die a horrible physical death and to endure separation from His Father.

Father...another F word. Yes, we all have a heavenly Father who is continually standing looking, listening, calling for us.

But as Steve reminded all... it is our choice whether we walk up to that door, open it and enter through to bask in all that eternal perfection, mercy, grace and love.....

Point # 4

The Immaculate Reception. Matt.24:44. (24:36-44)

Okay you babies -- if you have no idea who Franco Harris is, please do own research. i couldn't find picture of actual moment of catch, for guess back then there weren't a trillion photographers parked on sidelines.

Yes, as Steve reminded all that the Father is sending the Bride Groom for an Incredible Reception...like the greatest of all weddings.

But must confide to Steve, i do at times feel same as you expressed in class. FEAR. "....two men will be working in the field; one will be taken and the other left."

Left Behind.......now that is catchy. Might be creative concept and most excellent book title. Will have to file away for future use.

Yes, sometimes if honest have the fear that in my case at last minute there might be this.......

........... Immaculate Deflection.

Yes, is great on football field but in spiritual matters would be real bummer.

But guess that is where FAITH comes in. For no huge defensive end's big paw is going to swat me or us away. We are already through the uprights. Hurrah!

No crazy tribunal of pollsters is going to decide who gets into the Championship game for shot at glory.

There is an open invitation and once accepted... Super Bowl ring, blanket of roses, even the little brown jug -- is ours never, ever to be snatched away.

All we need to do is go out there and FLY........

Great job Steve.....most definitely have to find more than 2 wee weeks for you next year. oh almost forgot to mention, think we had record crowd of at least 45 yesterday.

Next week: the lovely Laree...

Prayer Requests and Announcements:

Karen asked for prayers for all Mstone family travelling near and far for holidays.

Mary asked prayers for teacher Barbara Ingram -- she is pregnant and going to have gallbladder surgery.

Rebecca thanked everyone for prayers for her uncle who had passed away last week on his birthday. Please keep his wife and children in your prayers.

Cindy updated us on the young soldier who had been injured in Iraq. She spent time with him, and he is doing well in spite of health issues and his long road to a full recovery.

All please who are able please come to sanctuary next Sunday, November 26 at 2 p.m. to help hang the greens. childcare available.

Christmas Party is set for December 8, at Couch's. Draw name for gift to be donated. Jan - June appetizer. July - Dec -- dessert.

We are trying to locate order envelope for Christmas ornaments that was being passed around. if you have any info on location of such please let me know.

God Bless, Good Week......

and i am very thankful that God brought all us turkeys together, and

even though we are very different birds of a feather...

we are one heck of an M-flock when all stuck together...... Love... j.

A Photo Essay "Just Mad about Maize"...Mstone 10.29.06

2006-10-30T10:54:00.000-08:00

We all had great Sunday.

Visiting M-teacher David Nutter gave great lesson.

Then later in afternoon, many Milestone families found their way to Jack's Creek for another picture perfect fall twilight.

Harvest fun abounded.

Countless hayrides, pumpkins for finding, hotdogs, chips, some mores -- all those big, gigantic spooky spiders and such.

And really what would Harvest Jack's Creek be without getting trapped in the corn maze. Well, i thought David Burbach knew the heck how to get out of there when we followed him in.

After hours and hours of personal reflection, i realized that i had nothing to add to David's message in this M-Update. Sorry for those of you who missed out, i would just look sort of foolish trying to muse re Dave's World (well, guess a little more so than usual.)

And frankly, i just need some rest.

Finally had to kick Ruth Bearden and Mary DeVane out this morning. We had been celebrating a Gator a victory way, way too much.

So much rejoicing, i have forgotten who we beat. All i know is i am unconsciously tired. You ladies are machines!

So good thing this week that a picture is worth a thousand words..

now i really need to go get some rest.

"yawn"......

ta.....ta....

Hannah Kate and Mark ... and

Kristie. Sorry you all were total light "raging in the eyes" victims.

You all look great though, and maybe you can cancel that corrective laser eye surgery Kristie. Think this late afternoon radial exposure might have done trick.

I don't know what is being discussed here, but sure it is something.

Most excellent 1/2 shirt D. Burbach.

Cheryl and lots of other kids enjoying very scary part of hayride.

I was jealous upon hearing of your Bob's fishing trip up on Lake Superior till heard frightful latest.

No heat in cabin. They awoke to temperature in cabin 36 degrees.

ok -- i would have died. Be sure he thaws out good upon return.

A bevy of Mstone beauty. And this reminds me...cookbooks for sale after Church this Sunday.

Wasn't there some other picture with Stephanie and Julie re Cookbook in one of these things. Weird-o-rama, i seem to remember that picture was taken in Couch basement. Long live the disco ball!

The Reitmans are searching for something. Matthew, maybe?

Notice the lovely body of water in back of shot.

Just after this snap think John asks Joe, "Is that Hard Labor Creek behind you." We are all puzzled for moment till Rebecca inserted moment of sanity, "It's Jack' Creek." Then she was amazed for rest of evening that she knew something John didn't. Oh honey...we've got to talk.........

Our favorite pastor and his adorable bride.

Think that is Leanne behind, scurrying around in food prep.

ok -- i've always wanted to know, do they actually grow those wee things there, or just buy in mass at Farmer's Market and chuck in field?

Anyone, Anyone?

"Howdy, Tex."

i don't have to learn a lesson twice, never mess with a guy in a black hat.

Katie and Max -- very cute snap of you 2.

There's David in that blue shirt again. See what i mean. Wee Joe is up there with him in red sweater; they would turn those corners and disappear into the corn -- i was toast.

Got dreadfully lost really. But at least David was always watching out for my precious babe.

"Oh Mr. Burbach...Mr. Burbach?"

"Oh dear. Where is that nice man in the blue shirt?"

The Happy Hickey Clan.

Can't think of anything to say about this fine-looking group. Except you all look very happy too. Oh yeah, "How Bout them Dogs?"

Cooking those hotdogs. Good that it was under the watchful eye of M-stone healthcare specialist Dr. Dan Zant. Am sure he was continually monitoring that fire was at safe temperature to kill all the potentially hidden wee beasties that can reside in pre-cooked processed pork products.

Long live our M-chefs!

Then each dog was nestled snugly into bun with loving care by Tim, one of our M-finance wizards.

Yes, we all were enjoying those hotdogs.

Man in black Tony Hughes said he prefers his dog with mustard, relish and just a hint of caviar.

So glad the Mstone budget could accommodate your way advanced culinary palate.

i tried same and think you are on to new ballpark surf and turf.

btw, looks like you could be extra on The Sopranos the cornfield episode.

and is there any other place a Cobber could be happier dining on his dog than a cornfield?

btw, the dog is plain. as are many, many, many things this mighty former fighting corncob consumes.

Secret sleuth Laree "Nancy Drew" Zant is hot on the trail of the strange hotdog connoisseur.

Seems one particular camper preferred his or her dog bunless.

Not only did she help organize event, Laree worked tirelessly into the night trying to get to bottom of dog mystery.

Here she is gathering some of the bun carcasses the "Hotdog Bandit" cast aside. When we left in darkness, she was dusting each bun with Robert Markley for finger prints.

Think John and Tony are definitely in clear for it is obvious in photos they are bun-eaters. i will comb all my photos to see if any hold any clues. Keep up the good work Laree.

The inhumanity! Who would do such a thing to six helpless marshmallows. Burned beyond recognition. i am one who most definitely prefers the perfect mallow.

Beautiful amber on outside, light crispy coating -- and perfect gooey consistency inside. Absolutely no solid marsh-material detectable. Gosh, that really sounds good. Must have john fire up the pit asap.

Seems "Nancy" was keeping the some-more chocolate under lock-and-key.

Think that cobber is trying to sway her affections by offering her a bag full of toasted marshmallows on a pitchfork.

Well, that might work for those corncob beauty pageant types, but our girl Nancy is not so easily tricked. The chocolate was doled out in the most equitable and efficient manner under her care, insuring plenty for all.

but in interest of honest SS Mstone dealings, must confess to finding a very sticky chocolaty mess upon taking the pictured Cobber sweatshirt out of dryer today.

i can only suppose that he and Julie S. were working in tandem to put off their chocolate caper if the material found all over inside dryer and sweatshirt were indeed of the cocoa plant.

The Gills looking refreshed and very relaxed after their short evening jog from Madison to Jack's Creek.

Aspiring photojournalist signing off from Jack's Creek once again with my favorite little corncob and 2 of my perfect pumpkins.

God Bless, Good Week and

Hope you get gobs and gobs of candy tomorrow p.m.

He Forgives Me...He Forgives Me not...He Forgives Me? Mstone 10.22.06

2006-10-22T09:39:00.000-07:00

Don't let the sun go down on me

Although i search myself,
it's always someone else i see

I'd just allow a fragment of your life to wander free,

But losing everything is like the
sun going down on me.

I thought i had broken myself of the dreadful habit of quoting song lyrics, but i just can't seem to get this one out of my mind. For a second i contemplated trying to pass it off as my own thought, but figured that someone (probably Tony Hughes) would most probably figure it out. So here i sit with Sir Elton in my ear.

and for you who think my music tastes are embarrassingly trapped in the 70s -- you might be right. but i also just a second ago downloaded Skateaway and think that has to be at least the mid 80s.

-- but i must get back into the Mstone Orbit for my ponderings have wandered way too afar in the galaxy. (ok, i just had to look -- Skateaway 1981)

Milestone Class 10.22.06 Feather Whidby and yours truly facilitating.

I just couldn't get the sun/solar system thing out of my head for that is where we started with our hero Joseph's dreams and guess something in my subconscious wants to part from him there.

"Joseph said to them, "Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good." Genesis 50:19,20.

Yes, Joseph was really quite the guy.

When Heather and company had left our man last week he had risen to power in Egypt at the age of 34.

as Pharaoh said, "You shall be over my house, and all my people shall be ruled according to your word; only in regard to the throne shall i be greater than you." Gen. 41:40

We opened class reviewing the idea of forgiveness.

All agreed this was one of the major themes of Joseph's life.

He had been sold into slavery by his brothers. Thrown unjustly into prison for years as the result of the wrath of his owner's wife's advances being rebuffed.

Then through God's providence, he found himself face to face with his brothers who had come to Egypt to purchase grain for they were starving in Canaan.

What did he do? Was his forgiveness immediate?

Julie S. brought up the dichotomy of Joseph's actions. Did he withhold revelation of himself from his brothers because he really wanted to be sure that they had changed? Were they were sorry for their past actions?

Or was he just playing with them as a cat plays with a helpless mouse. Was there a part of him that needed to see them put through the emotional ringer?

Lots of questions..........

"Hallelujah here comes queen rollerball,
Enchante what can i say, don't care at all.
You know she used to have to wait around,
She used to be the lonely one,
But now that she can skate around town,
She's the only one." Mark Knopfler

Yes, lots of questions surround Joseph and i guess they will just have to remain that questions.

For the only person that could give us an answer to "What the heck were you thinking on the forgiving the brothers thing?" hasn't walked the planet for century upon century.

So i think i shall look to the general human condition, for have we really changed all that much since mankind first strode upon this terrestrial ball?

How come it is so hard for us to forgive?

Joe C. "we all feel like we need payback."

Shelly "Even 2-year-olds can't say they
are sorry or let go of fact they have been wronged.

Julie S.,"Joseph wanted to make sure their hearts had changed."

Is there really that much difference between Joseph and us?

Aside from the fact that he was 2nd to the king in Egypt are we really any different from him? When we have been wronged -- don't we want payback?

If you have been looking closely and really attentive to detail, you might have noticed a few pictures of things that were somewhat popular in the 70s. You might have been thinking? What gives james?

i ask back ... or is better question ...what Forgives?

"Now you're climbing to the top of the company ladder Hope it doesn't take too long
Can'tcha see there'll come a day when it won't matter
Come a day when you'll be gone..." Boston

Well, thought i would give those of you who are babies a pictorial history lesson. Other tad older Mstones might have enjoyed this little trip down memory lane, but are thinking what connection to Joseph? Honestly, i am not really sure at this point...just kind of got off on tangent. A 70s tangent. Trapped in a 70s vortex.

Trapped. Yes, that must be link. Whether we are trapped in the 70s, 80s, 90s or present day, we are all just that -- trapped.

Imprisoned by the notion that the universe revolves around us. Whether we think too highly of ourselves or too lowly -- we are all looking out for number 1.

As in..."How dare someone do that to me?"

Oh sure -- to outsiders we try to be sweet, kind and offer cute shrugs of our shoulders -- like, these things don't bother me.

But deep down when we have been slighted, wronged or betrayed -- it violently rages against us at our very core.

Because ultimately it is all about ME. And like Joseph, if it is a family member or confidant who knows us intimately -- aren't they in the best position to devastate us. Often those betrayals are the deepest conflagrations of the soul.

To forgive or not to forgive. Nurse wounds forever or make peace with the offender.

"I understand about indecision
But i don't care if i get behind
People livin' in competition
All i want is to have my Peace of Mind."

Again i ask the question...what Forgives? Well, certainly not time.

All too soon our time on the planet is done. Look at all these images from just 30 years ago. They were so important and full of celebrity then -- but what has the world done for them lately. They made mistakes, grew older or have died.

Isn't that what is happening to all of us? As much as we are desperately trying to keep ourselves the center of everything, all the other everythings out there are racing past.

"Don't let the sun go down on me" Isn't that what we all are really fear? Being dishonored, betrayed -- losing everything. Emotional Annihilation.

We all know it. Whether we believe in God or not -- the sun of this world will one day go down on us for the last time.

Guess next logical question would be -- where will we wake up?

Better still, why don't we WAKE UP while we are here. Forgive in His strength and make the most of each day we are given to see the sun rise. And hopefully find some Peace of Mind..........

thanks heather. As always it was a pleasure.

bye Joseph.

Next week: Johnny Miles' trusted friend, bible scholar, smartest individual on face of planet (and most humble too -- who would be so mad i wrote that smart comment), and all around good guy David Nutter will make trek out from Atlanta to teach us.

Assignment: Crack open those bibles this week and read Acts 9.

Prayer Requests and Announcements

Please keep Brandon Bell in your prayers. Brandon is the 15 year-old son of Terry's friend. He has been diagnosed with throat cancer. We pray the Lord's mighty healing hand on this young man for complete defeat of his affliction.

Please keep my childhood friend Dent Turner in your prayers. I saw him recently and he is battling multiple myeloma. He has wife and four kids and lives in Virginia. He has always been such a beautiful, positive person. I will try to track down address for him. Please pray for his body's ability to fight this.

Pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere! Next Sunday, October 29 at Jack's Creek.

okay -- i know there is a time we are supposed to be there. 4-ish i think?
ok -- just called Deborah to confirm.

4 -- 7 p.m. hotdogs and somemores. or at least that is what i remember to be standard yummy menu for such family fun function.

"The Cookbook is Here...The Cookbook is here!"

Yes, we received word that the Mstone Culinary Masterpiece has indeed arrived.

We all await word on how those little beauties are going to distributed worldwide am sure.

God Bless, Good Week and Good Grief ....

oops! i almost forgot...........

Go Gators !!!!

The Beautiful MDreamer becomes a Beautiful MDoer. Mclass 10.8.06

2006-10-09T13:50:00.000-07:00

The Barbie Doll.

10.8.06

i learned from 2 very secret squirrel sources that a certain Mstone male was wrestling with Barbie doll at close of 11 a.m. service.

Mgal Deep Throat #1 said that evidently during the course of the service, the Barbie in question had lost her top. Guess it was better than losing her head.

As my 2 spies watched with much laughter.... said mystery barbie-whisperer mguy desperately tried to clothe Barbiegal before end of last hymn.

Guess like any self-respecting Milestone male, this gent didn't want to be seen leaving church with half-naked doll.

Who said chivalry was dead?

Barbie's got it all really. Just perfect looking. I mean those who look perfect must have it made. Too bad i can't ask the few of the Bdolls lying around here. They keep pretty mum. But would be fun to see what the world would be like if you had all the looks, brains and talent.

I've had the pleasure of being around a few live Barbie Dolls.

Like yesterday in Sunday School.

And long time ago too. Remember at SMU. There were lots of Barbies there. Lots of beautiful people with brains and bucks. (and am not talking 10-pointers)

Remember this girl Christy Fitchner was on hall directly above me freshman year. Thought she was pretty so-so pretty. But definitely not top barbie in freshman class.

Fast forward a few year later. i was watching TV and there she was...with a Miss USA banner on her. Later she was first runner-up to Miss Universe. Guess Christy was first runner-up to Top Solar System Barbie.

Barbies, Barbies everywhere. There was my Theta sorority initiation eons ago. The day long event, entailed being held captive in room for about 8 hours. 10 minutes of that being taken out of small room for actual initiation. The rest of the time you were stuck in room, while i guess everyone else was having their 10 minutes of initiating. I, Jamie Collins, was paired in room with fellow plebe, Shannon Davidson as the alphabet broke us up.

I thought great. All i really knew about her was that she kept to herself, was former Miss Colorado and she was probably one of the most perfect looking women i had ever seen. What were we going to do just the 2 of us for 8 hours -- i mean what would be the common denominator?

Maybe i could just look at her? Even that would have gotten dull and she would have thought me terribly weird.

Turns out she got there late because she had been doing fashion show at the Mart. She blew in... all 10-foot, 120 lbs, long blond tresses.

"oh dear," i thought.

i started with something like..."hi, glad you got here -- was getting tad lonesome." She smiled a very muted beauty pageant smile. i lamely continued, "i've just been sitting here alone eating chocolate." To pass the time, our big sisters filled our rooms with chocolate. Hello -- freshman 10.

"Chocolate!" Shannon exclaimed. "i haven't eaten anything for 2 days to get ready for this show, where is it?" Well, guess we had found our common ground. Chocolate. And we passed the 6 or so hours laughing and eating.

Think we look at people who genetically ended up with amazing looks, brains, personalities as just charmed.

But in my experience -- as am sure yours -- none of these perfection factors guarantee happiness for those they have been bestowed upon. In fact, it seems like the more talented, smarter, or good looking a person is -- the more they become imprisoned and defined by it.

looks, brains, talent...curses really.

Joseph, Part II. Milestone Class 10.8.06

We turned to Chapters 39 and 40 to continue our exploration of the life and times of Joseph.

Our Mhero has ended up in Egypt as a slave in the house of Potiphar an officer of Pharaoh.

Now it seems that Joseph rose to the top of the servant ranks. Most extensive research has uncovered that there could have been 50 to 75 slaves in such household.

"The Lord was with Joseph, and he was a successful man; ...And his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord made all he did to proper in his hand." Gen. 39:3-4

Potiphar recognizing Joseph's hard work and intelligence put him in charge of all that he had.

Thing were going pretty good for our Hebrew in foreign land. That was until Potiphar's wife decided that she liked him. And unfortunately for Joseph she wanted to cross proper master/slave boundaries.

Well, it would have probably been okay considering mores of ancient Egypt, even foolish to rebuff such advances but Joseph did not want to act against his master or sin against his God.

what a guy!

But for this he ended up falsely accused of attempted rape and found himself in Prison. For a long time.

He met 2 of Pharaoh's other officers there who were put under his care. The kingly wine cup-bearer and baker. He thought "hey -- maybe if these cats get out they will tell the king about me and how i am unjustly imprisoned."

None of which happened immediately.

It struck me how lots of class discussion centered on how the Lord blessed Joseph, how the Lord was with Joseph and prospered him. And that is true for the bible tells us so.

But what blessing? I mean his is slave in foreign country. Falsely accused and imprisoned. Kept in prison and made to serve fellow prisoners. Sure, he had those long ago dreams -- but do you really think he thought.."Hey, this is really great, just the way i would have planned it."

I'm great looking, smarter than anyone i've ever come across, great personality -- people like me, confide in me, put me in charge of things. Things are going just peachy. This prison thing -- this won't last. I haven't the slightest notion of how i could get out of this place, but of course I will....I'm Joseph, darn it!

Do people really think like that,

or do we think that someone with looks, brains and charisma must certainly feel that way.

Looks, charm, talent don't guarantee anything. Some of the most famous beautiful people have been most tormented in many ways.

i don't think God prospered Joseph just because it was part of some divine plan. God could have used anyone or anything. i think he prospered and protected Joseph because

Joseph believed in Him.

Sure he had a lot going for him and God was with him -- but do you really think Joseph thought, hey...God...I've got it made.

If you look at a great part of his young adult life -- it was very scary, very terrifying and very unknown.

But through all the what-ifs he had a mighty courage and mighty faith in God.

We all have that choice. It is not just reserved for the "Josephs." What's to be gained in the only life we have been given here on earth to think...i'm not young, never was too smart, very average looking...and nobody ever listens to me, what i think or have to say."

God just wants us to be teachable and to believe in Him.

Not only till the beautiful, talented and highly intelligent Joseph was completely without earthly hope did things begin to ultimately look up and God finally put him in his position of power.

I mean even Barbie perfection is at the mercy of hapless mistress's fathers who hopelessly struggle to fit clothing over their perfect molded plastic physique.

We all need to look around our Egypt. What or how could we prosper if we only had the faith of Joseph? Guess there's no way to know unless we stop making excuses.

Joseph was sold into Egypt, but became sold out for God.

Seems most of us spend our time counting loose change. i mean what's it going to take for us to change?

Next week: Joseph iii

Prayer Requests and Announcements

Very, very good to see that travelling Mguy Larry Angel back among the classroom crowd this weekend. Though am sure he had dressed many a Barbie doll, Larry was not back row Barbie couturier.

Next week end our Stephanie and Cheryl will be on their walk to Emmaus. Love and thinking of you... and happy, happy birthday Stephanie on the 15th!

Ron Lewis asked us all to keep Eda LaRue in our prayers. Eda is a close family friend and wife of Ron's beloved mentor. She is struggling with bone cancer. Please have the Lord make His presence, peace and love abundantly clear to Eda and her loved ones.

Pete gave a praise that his dad was able to join all those biking Busenitzs in the mountains last weekend. We all pray for continued blessings on his health.

Heather gave a praise for the amazing report the doctor's gave her dad. All are very thankful!

God Bless, Good Week and Good Grief..

was that Rick Wadsworth with half-naked Barbie leaving church?

Orange ones, the blues, greens, browns, reds or yellows....Which is your Favorite? M&Mclass 10.1.06

2006-10-01T20:00:00.000-07:00

Brothers.

Lots and lots of brothers.

Lots of brothers, 4 mothers, one sister and oh yeah..

One father.

i am already confused and i was one supposedly teaching this stuff to M&M's this morning.

(btw... do you know that they actually have come out with Special Dark M&Ms -- that is really, really terrible for me. i mean it is not fair.

They are so nice and colorful with the M and everything just like normal tried and true very benign milk chocolate Ms -- but they are actually dark chocolate.

There are a lot of those little colorful guys at my feet right now -- let's just say there was a slight accident involving one industrial size bag of S.D. M&Ms. Here's my dilemma.... to toss or not to toss....i mean who's to know?)

Ok...where was i?

Lots of brothers and lots of colors.

FYI .. the lovely Feather Whidby will be teaching in the month of October as well. She was just entertaining lots of Whidby's for reunion this weekend.

Stumbled (that was figurative not literal use of verb) on to the singing Whidby boys downtown Friday night. Now those boys can really sing into a can. I mean they were live. Was very, very impressed.

Really need to get the Soggy Bottom Whidbys back into Mad for all to enjoy. oh dear. Think i am off track again. Where was i?

M&Ms.

No, Colors. Yes, colors and brothers. And what else could colors and brothers point to but the Mstone Man of the Month... Joseph.

Mclass 10.1.06

Now i love the story of Joseph. Who am i kidding? Have always been slightly crazed for the person of Joseph since little girl.

i mean that unconscious coat -- all those colors. Those nutty dreams. He was my kind of guy.

Very smart, good-looking, confident, a snappy dresser. Is this a trick question? What was not to love?

His father Jacob loved him.

Jacob loved him a ton.

Joseph was his favored son.

Remember, Jacob had a lot of sons -- 12 of them -- but seems as if he favored Joseph more than the others and didn't make any pretense about hiding that fact.

"Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age. He made him a tunic of many colors." Genesis 37:3

And as much as Jacob loved Joseph -- his brothers hated him. We discussed that the verb hated was used 3 times in Genesis 37: 1 -- 8.

"But when his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, they hated him and could not speak peaceably to him. Gen. 37:4.

Then there were his dreams. Joseph really not following advice from How to Win Friends and Influence People.

One dream was about wheat and one about outer space.

Seems as when our man Joseph recounted his sleep tales to his brothers that word .. hate.. keeps coming up.

"...Shall you indeed reign over us? Or shall you indeed have dominion over us?" So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words." 37:8

It really is a very, very familiar story. It was always my favorite one to find in those blue picture bibles that used to sit on tables in Dr. Hitchcock's office. Looking upon his regal beauty (Joseph's not Dr. Hitchcock's) -- was perfect diversion from fear that there was some shot with my name on it lurking on other side of waiting room door.

Don't we all still think of it that way. Very sanitized story found in way, way Old Testament betwixt colored pages of Children's bibles.

But think about it. Is it all child's play?

i mean what was really going on here?

Remember, Joseph goes out at his father's request to see how brothers are getting along with their family livestock in countryside.

And what is his brothers' reaction when they see him approach?

"Now when they saw him afar off, even before he came near them, they conspired to kill him ." v. 18.

Now last time i checked my consciousness, our federal laws and Exodus 20:13, murder is a big, big no, no. As in really bad.

What depth of hatred lay in the heart of his brothers that murder was the action they thought when first spying our man Joseph coming across arid landscape?

They were out in the wilderness. If brothers all banded together -- no one would have any way of ever knowing the truth.

They hated him. i guess.

They felt so passionately in their hatred to want to kill him, but so distanced about him that once they actually threw him in the pit -- they sat down and started to eat.

Now i can't choke down a roll if HK and Joe are battling at dinner table without experiencing raging indigestion. Why were they able to sit, talk and eat all the while hearing Joseph cry from the pit?

Was it because after deciding to destroy him and act on it somewhat -- the Joseph problem had been solved. Whenever or however the situation ultimately resolved itself (we know by sale of coat-owner to traveling Ishmaelites) -- Joseph the object of their all consuming rage was taken care of in their minds.

And in the end -- that is really what they wanted to do. Get rid of the Object. Sure murder was the first passionate solution that sprung to their minds -- but once it became clear that they would never see him again and the immediacy of emotion had been vented -- they sat down and ate. And somewhat clearer heads prevailed.

For Joseph was only the Object of their hatred. What or Whom was the Source?

The insatiable pit from which those feelings of utter hopelessness, rage and bitter loathing sprung. I think deep down the passion and hatred was towards their father.

Jacob.

The one they could never be good enough for they weren't the first born son of Rachel. Rachel, Jacob's passionate favorite to the destruction of others.

Ok -- You know the rest of this installment of Joseph's tale. Brothers kill a lamb and put the blood on that coat and take it to their father.

Ruth said it best.........The blood was all over the coat. The coat that represented all the favoritism and all the love that would never be theirs.

Contemplate Murder? Really seems unthinkable to most of us. But how many times are we acting out towards an Object in response to those tapes that keep playing over and over in our heads.

"You were never good enough." "You never could do anything right."

"Every time i did receive a compliment ... it was followed with how it could be done better next time." "My brother was the favored one."

"You are nothing and never will be."

Do we have "Josephs" who are the objects of our hatred toward another source?

It could be to another person or our self, but what destructive behaviors do we act on which are really result of a deep loathing and hurt caused by another?

Did this band of brothers so hate their father -- that they were able to take him the coat of his favored son covered in blood and watch as he became overcome with grief before their very eyes -- never to recover.

i don't know their exact feeling towards their father...but it must have been pretty intense and very deep.

i don't know any answers. Guess we need to see what happens to all in this gripping saga.

In meantime, Joseph was heading to Egypt in a camel caravan. I'm really worried about our hero. If this was bad, hate to break it to him, but it is going to get a lot worse. Wonder what he must be thinking?

My brain hurts. I really won't think about this for a while. Just comforting to know that God was always with Joseph. i like that thought.

Next week: Egypt.

Prayer Requests and Announcements

Please continue to pray for Mr. Kronic and the healing of his arm that was seriously injured in a car accident.

Keep the Pilcher family in your prayers as they lost a child in accident last week. Please keep all the siblings in your prayers.

Karen reported that Otha Knight is on the long road to recovery after his accident on his tractor. All are very grateful that he is going to be alright after this very life threatening injury.

Kathryn's father came through his heart procedure very well. The family appreciates continued prayers for the upcoming months and how his body responds.

Many, many thanks to Cheryl, Robin, Bob and Chanin who have stepped up and volunteered to help start a more formalized process for the distribution of Mstone treasuries.

God Bless, Good Week and

i really like the reds to look at

and the blues to eat.

i mean i just can't get used to the blue ones. every time its like.... will they taste the same?

it's always a little surprise. and i love surprises.

The Voices in my Head.......

2006-09-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

Ok -- i really wasn't going to write anything this week.

Why? i didn't know. Think i am just a tad tired. Maybe it is more a smidge let down. Was having lunch with power authoress and agent Deidre Tuesday and she said, "Are you ok?"

ok? Why in the world did i have not to be ok? But as we talked, it hit me. I was having tri-withdrawl. Me -- the very average tri-gal -- was deep, it must be very deep in my subconscious, deep down sad this tri-thing was over for 2006. i guess.

Really no reason to race up to Athens Y for swim, race down dixie on bike or hook up headphones to iPod for run.

Certainly no reason to write anymore about this stuff for have done quite enough of that. But when it came down to it, it was just those last few thoughts i couldn't get out of my head. And for what it is worth -- just had to get up out of bed tonight and put them down.

Wasn't even going to write about it. But here i am writing to myself about it. Why? Because of the voices and the faces in my head.

Where did it all start? i guess this year for me it was in St. Pete at St. Anthony's.

FYI -- for anyone interested. Just saw on the web site that registration opens 9 a.m. Dec. 1. Registration last year for 3,500 entrants closed in 6 hours.

ok -- this was me in bed night before St. Anthony's race. i guess i wasn't wearing red sweater and tights, but i was really fretful. i was staying in sister's house on bay and all i could hear was the wind howling. i mean raging. and that meant really rough water. i was very nervous gal -- then out of blue phone rang, and it was Coach Karen -- asking me how i was doing.

You don't want to tell Coach who has invested time and effort in you that you are a pathetic reject who is terrified -- but what the heck - i was alone and terrified, so that is what i told her.

One voice i remember from this tri-season was yours Karen. Calming me down. Reminding me that there was no way in Hades i was going down with that seal suit on. thanks for that K.

There we were April 29, 2006. and i made it.

Was talking in potty line before Disney race last weekend. It was a very long line. So got to know the New Jersey crowd waiting in front of me.

Turns out after lots of conversing and lots of waiting the young guy in front of me said that he had given up in St. Pete bay that day. He was pulled out. His friend said that they had to fish at least 50 out. To which i remarked, "i'm glad to hear that."

Which sounded terrible, but i just meant, thank God it wasn't all in my head or that i really wasn't very mediocre tri-girl swimmer. It was pretty rough.

So guess all this tri-stuff is done for 2006. Will just have to hop online Dec.1 and hope to get in to tackle St. Pete on April 29, 2007 -- 7 months from today.

But just got up to give a few last thanks to the voices i couldn't get out of my head last Sunday during race. So here they are short and sweet.

The swim and

voice #1 Jeff Davis. Here you are coming in from what surely was great bike at Sandestin. i remembered your voice and sage advice after your great swim there at beach this August.

"Don't stop so much to look for the frickin' buoys." (ok -- you probably didn't say frickin')

You really didn't say anything the sort. I just always somewhat curse when referring to those frickin' huge orange floating things.

"Don't look to the buoys. Trust yourself. Follow the swim caps. Keep your head down and just keep swimming." expert swimmer and former Olympian Jeff Davis.

Great advice. Kept that in my head out there in water. Now i need your help on swinging too wide to get around folks -- but guess there is always room for improvement. Think it really helped me. And i did try to trust myself more and just swim -- darn it.

the bike, Voice #2
Jevon Kearse
ok -- it probably wasn't actually Jevon Kearse because think he is having major knee problems right now, but it certainly looked a heck of a lot like him -- if he was on bike in middle of triathlon at Disney.

i was cruising somewhat along about mile 17 of bike portion when along side me i heard,

" if you'd ever straighten those legs out girl -- you'd fly."

i looked to my left and there was all beautifully sculpted 10 feet of Jevon sailing by with smile on his bike.

"Thanks, Jevon" "You are soooo right." was my reply. And the sad thing was i knew exactly what he was talking about. i have developed this dreadful habit of frogging my legs way out when i pedal. Not really up and down piston-like as would be good bike form. Well, i straightened those legs out and was so inspired that i caught up to Mr. African American beautiful statue and passed him.

Now forever on bike in races i will remember voice#2. "Straighten those legs out girl -- and you'll fly." and i'll remember Jevon's smile. He had a great smile.

Voice # 3 Smarty Jones

ok -- this is race horse Smarty Jones. i think he won the Kentucky Derby a few years back. Unfortunately for my neighbor, Rob Jones, this is the name by which my husband always refers to him.

Therefore i do not think of him as Rob -- i think of him as Smarty. But he (Rob) is not a horse -- though he is really very fast. He really is. I know it is amazing -- but he can move.

(i mean Rob can move,
well -- i guess the horse can move pretty fast too).

Recently, Smarty and his lovely bride Trish came by while i was on porch. During course of neighbor chat, Rob mentioned that he had seen me running and observed that i basically was running like a moron.

Ok -- Now he is the GA Tech engineer type -- and he was getting into lots of bio mechanics in his dissection of my running form, but the bottom line is i was running stupid.

And that my hapless form was making this already slow runner quite the snail.

Well, i took his advice to heart and kept trying to follow the Smarty Scuffle all through my last 6 miles on Sunday.

In St. Pete and Chattanooga i did my 10k in 1:05:30. i did my race Sunday in 58:44.

Almost 7 minutes in triathlon time is huge.

i can't tell you how unbelievable that is. Thanks Smarty. i guess that is why i went to SMU for a film degree and you learned to build Saturn V rockets at Tech.

Have to say favorite moment of race was leaving transition from bike to run and just as i was about to step out of fence a ref motioned to me, "Your helmet is still on."

i would have looked like most excellent and veteran tri-gal cruising along to a PR on my 10k time wearing my bike helmet.

And it was so incredibly hot. i would have totally ejected my nice red helmet somewhere along the shadeless sun-blaring way to Epcot. Thirty some-odd dollars gone. But what if no one had told me it was still on? oh dear. Major tri-style faux paus. Unforgivable really.

ok -- so it was so hot. so very hot finishing it up. And at the end, i had nothing.

Usually there is something, but on Sunday i had nothing. Gal with a 41 on left calf passed me with less than 1/4 mile to go. i thought,"She'll finish ahead of me on list." But i had nothing to answer -- and she did indeed finish 10 sec and a spot a head of me.

So there i was -- about ready to throw-up and cry because cute gal age 41 in red just passed me and i knew she was going to stay there and be a spot ahead on race results when i heard..

Voice #4 -- Coach Karen

"Yeah, Jamie -- you look great."

i looked up and saw sweet Karen there in brown shirt and khaki shorts. Remember thinking i must try to muster some sort of smile for i couldn't let you see how woeful i was really feeling.

i slogged the few more yards to finish doing Smarty's Shuffle -- then found my way back to you.

Your Rick was long gone. For he was in 1st wave. He had gone back to room with girls to shower and check out, and you waited for me.

Now to be honest, i really think i am quite self-sufficient gal. And i was enjoying doing this thing by myself -- but looking back on it -- you staying behind and being lone voice for me at finish will be something i will never forget.

i was done for -- practically crying -- and you were there. You whipped out your cell and we called john and everything was better.

ok -- i know this certainly is not the best, most clever, entertaining thing i have ever penned. But it really is probably one of the truest and bluest.

And from now on, during these silly things i will always carry your voices with me in my head and your voices in my heart.

much love and thanks -- Jeff, Jevon, Smarty and Karen

from me -- very aspiring tri-gal who sometimes has to be reminded to remove bike helmet before run. (guess that most helpful guy should be all important voice #5.)

3 Coaches and One Very Big-Boned Gal. Make My GameDay 9.23.06

2006-09-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

Yea!

i was very, very happy girl last Saturday night.

i was literally doing back flips, or sideways flips or something like that.

Yes. John was also a very, very happy man because of all my flippin' happiness.

i had done kind of good with my picks. Winning 4 and losing 2 (ND outright and Gators on points).

Percentage on year. A very spectacular .500.

But guess others in College Football Nation weren't as happy.

See, his head is perfect example of the time-honored adage..."if you can't say something nice...."

So sorry for him, but if he wasn't so hate-filled --

well, guess he wouldn't have looked so darn stupid.

Yes, lots of fans weren't happy after last week.......

OUuch!

Guess the poor Sooner Schooners were down in mouth after all the miscue calls.

But really, really isn't that a part of the game.

bad calls.

Well, they were really, really bad calls.

But University of OK please get a hold of yourself -- as in take control. Am getting embarrassed for you. The university president asking that the game be permanently stricken from the books.

Coach #1 Boob Stops.

Please stop it Boob. It is really getting old. So sorry you lost, but there is always another day.

Everything will be alright, Bob. Still love you, but please, please don't be such a fuddy-duddy. Things will start looking up soon. You have Middle Tennessee State at home this week -- see i told you, things aren't that bad.

Coach #2 Larry Coker, ok for you -- things are really that bad.

What a short, short memory the Hurricane Nation seems to have.

Now i guess the official word out of Miami is that Coker will be around till end of season, but seems like all those media types are already speculating on poor Larry's successor.

Now really isn't out of the realm of possibility that Larry and Co. win rest of games and ACC. Guess it is possible. But seems lots of people don't think that's going to happen.

Who's going to replace Larry? Talk has been about Butch Davis returning. Now that Rutgers is undefeated Schiano is hot name. Yes, they pounded UNC, the Illini (poor zooker) and Ohio. Seems like the Scarlet Knightdom is worried their guy is heading to South Beach. Leave Camden, NJ for Miami? i've been both places. Think it is kind of toss up. But guess he would have chance at better players recruiting in the Sunshine State. Maybe?

Then, U of M might look to NFL -- i.e. a Pete or a Weis? Then lots of talk surrounding Tuberville.

There might be someone else? Oh Yeah, some in the Bulldog crowd are all worried. Think maybe Mark Richt might be tempted to head back to Miami...

Mark Richt? Leave Sanford Stadium. Never.

Well, almost never. But wherever the guy ends up UGA, Miami or FSU -- i am not too worried. At least i don't think i have reason to be. He seems like kind of nice mellow fellow -- nice, i guess, unless you are 2000 pound female named Ralphie. Think it seems like he kind of has it out for her. And unfortunately our suave Coach Mark thinks our big-boned beast of a gal is a "he." And that really isn't very nice to hear, even for the most secure femgal bovine.

Coach #3 Mark Richt v. Ralphie

There she is. All adorable, thundering 2000 pounds of her.

Guess the Bulldogs are playing Colorado and CU is bringing their mascot. As i pen this, Ralphie is in her trailer -- probably overnighting at the Best Western in Lebanon, Missouri -- wondering what the hell is going on? Hope Buffalos don't get car sick.

Oh dear. Hope someone is going to be hanging tight on wee UGA XXXiiXXV's bright red leash. Poor snub-nosed guy could get trampled. What a way to go.

Think most excellent Mark is worried about the Sanford greenery. Seems like Ralphie doesn't travel much -- like as in never. M. Richt seemed a little concerned in press conference, "I don't know the deal," Richt stated. "Is he going to get to run all over the field and stuff? That doesn't seem right!"

No indeed! "Why did we do that? ...surely they aren't going to let him stomp all over the field." Surely, surely not Coach Mark. Hope no one tells him that they eat 3 percent their body weight every day. Look out Hedges.

Someone please stop the insanity.

"Ralphie IV"

Though reports out of Athens indicate Richt is slightly agitated about the visiting she bison, seems like the erudite and composed Georgia Secondary has the matter all under control.

"We ain't playing against a buffalo,"cornerback Paul Oliver said."We're playing against a team."

Whew. Seems like someone has smidge common sense in the Classic City. i was getting little worried.

Enough of Coaches. Enough of Ralphie. And could call it a week here. The line-up is pretty anti-climatic after last week. But it is College Football and i love College Football -- so here are my picks for 9.23.06.

2 Nationals, ACC, SEC, Reptiles and Ponies -- Short and Sweet this week.

#12 Notre Dame v. Michigan State, 8 pm. ABC

Notre Dame, oh Notre Dame. You have become my Moby Dick. My Nemesis. But i think i have you this week.

This game will be battle between 2 future NFL ball-tossers. Spartan Drew Stanton -- scrambler, passer -- think Steve Youngish. GoldenBoy #10, Brady Quinn. Gunner like Montana.

Who will win? This is in East Lansing. Irish have had trouble with Spartans in recent years. Michigan State is really, really playing great. Question once again for me seems to be can the MSU defense get to........

#10 Greg Brady, No Tom Brady, no silly -- Brady Dr. Quinn medigal.

He really could use this game to get back into Heisman game. Will he? Lots of experts think so.

Me?

Call me crazy. But i think i've got those little wee green fellows this week.

Will take Michigan State and the 3.

Count on it. The Domers are going down again.

#24 Penn State v. #1 Ohio State, 3:30 p.m. ABC

Troy Smith. Another great, great QB who is playing great. These quarterbacks. Seems like they have lots to do with how team does. Go figure.

Well, i seem to be drawn once again into the orbit of Joe Paterno. Maybe i am just closet Big Ten gal. Don't know why -- but chose this game over the ASU v. Cal match-up. That just didn't get my pulse racing.

And besides -- i have always, always hated the Sun Devils helmets. "Sparky." He just is kind of creepy. Guess he is not really bad devil per say -- he's just drawn that way. Still, he bothers me. i might even have bad dreams tonight. So no ASU this week. Ok. Where was i?

OSU or the Nitneys?

Once again the Lions have to travel away from Happy Valley.

Yes, Joe Pa and Company have to travel to the big Horseshoe in Columbus, Ohio.

There they are the Buckeye faithful. So many O's. Tons and Tons of O's.

Multiples, really.

Who to chose? Joe Pa or the Ohio Statesmen.

i might be the only one, but thought Penn State played pretty good, at least for a while against ND. They just made way too many mistakes. Call me crazy once again -- but think the young lions are improving. and will come within the billion and a half they are given.

i take Penn State and the 17. on to......

#20 Boston College v. North Carolina State, 8:00 p.m. ESPN

Sorry Guys.

Really wasn't much else to choose from. Clemson was playing UNC, but felt had such magical moment personally with Tigers last week in victory over FSU just wanted to savor that one more week.

Talk about a coach that is having a rough year.

Chuck Amato.

Good choice on the sunglasses though.

Hope things go well in Raleigh this weekend for you Chuck, but have to stick with my Golden Flyboys -- BC.

Now the Eagles QB Matt Ryan has a bum ankle and BC defense isn't that rock solid -- but think they will be able to pull it out. Just think Wolfpack is playing that bad.

My pick: Boston College will cover the 7 points.

Yes, think those Eagles are on a roll. Or at least on a somewhat thick English Muffin.

Alabama v. Arkansas 3:30 p.m. CBS

Arkansas has a very neat little stadium. They also seem to come up and play fairly good in big games. They don't always win, but they play tough.

Houston Nutt is a nut. But sometimes he can really coach a good game.

Nutt or Shula?

Hogs can run, and Bama hasn't done great job stopping the run. Bama can run, and Hogs haven't great job stopping the run.

This is a poser. ARK QB Mustain is frosh and gets lots of buzz -- but is still young.

Think Bama Qback John Parker Wilson will surprise a few people.

Roll Tide somewhat. They will win and cover the 1 point. on to

Gainesville...

Kentucky v. #7 Florida, 7:45 p.m. ESPN

Ahh..

Young Love.

Another night game. bummer.

and i really, really don't like playing Kentucky. They scare me. (ok, what is scary is that sounded spookily like some sandbag thing Larry Munson would say.)

But they (Wildcats) always seem to find these QB's who can throw the ball a country mile and occasionally bomb it into end zone.

Florida hasn't found much of a running game yet. Where oh where have you gone.

27 points. oh dear. i love the number 27 and i love my gators -- but don't think they will cover 2 and 7. But i am and always will be madly in love and madly loyal to the boys from the SWAMP.

i'll always take my Gators and the 27 points. now that's love.

Arkansas State v. SMU 8 p.m.

My ponies won last week!

Go Peruna -- you wild woman.

and that Ralphie thinks she is something.

Don't know if wee stadium in big D will be full for game against the Indians, but hope it will.

Mustangs will win and score + 3 for those who care about such type of things.

Another week done. Weird week. We'll see.

"Excuse me.."

"Where's the best place to get a chicken sandwich around here?"

and hope all your teams win, especially if i picked them.

and please be sweet to Ralphie for me.

"I am Schneewittchen" the -- Milledstones 9.17.06

2006-09-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

Think i was about 3 years old.

It was my first visit with Dr. Hitchcock my new pediatrician.

He walked in very doctorly-like i am sure and said, "Well, who do we have here -- Miss Tracy Collins?"

To which i very defiantly replied with furrowed brow, "No, i'm Snow White."

Well, i always had an active imagination.

And for the next 20 years of my life, whenever i crossed paths with Dr. Hitchcock the snow white incident came up.

Guess back then the story was not a fairy tale to me. It was real.

i mean there was the fair maiden -- "me."

i had tons and tons of friends among the flora and fauna of nature or at least in my Central Florida backyard.

i had a mean whistle and was really handy with a broom.

and at night i was very, very sure that an evil witch was lurking outside my bedroom window with beautiful red apple dripping with poison clenched in her very gnarled non-manicured hand.

But even that was ok -- because was sure that i would be totally and most romantically saved by Love's first kiss -- or something like that.

Yes, a totally perfect looking male (kind of Ken Barbie dollish -- in every way) cloaked in regal cape and princely tights would spy me all 3 feet of me lying prone in some sleep/burial bunk bed chamber-type of thing.

Leaning down, in really slow motion, the fairly eunuch Ken would kiss me very G-rated like -- for i was preschooler -- and breathe life back into me again. To much rejoicing of my very extended and politically correct 7 dwarf family.

Tracy Collins? Who was she? Wasn't it plain as the wee nose on my face that i was Snow White and the Grimm Bros. were not authors of a Storied Adventure, but highly trained, schooled historians. It was obvious to me.

Milestone Class 9.17.06 --
Kathyrn Cardwell, teaching.

(ok -- loved that blouse you were wearing. i really, really want one. But of course -- obtaining one is just fairy tale -- for if i did, you know that some weird force in the universe would have us wear them without fail to same social event every single time. Then we would uncomfortably laugh and smile. But i know that deep down you would hate me for always showing up to same function wearing same blouse. It would be end of beautiful friendship. So just forgot i ever, ever commented about wanting your blouse.)

Where was i? Oh yeah...

Your blouse.

No, let's see -- the bible. Yes, the lovely Kat was talking about the bible and it's veracity.

Seems it (the bible) has been around a long time. Think it also contains mention of the bite of a luscious fruit resulting in death.

Evil lurking (always, always) around. Never really wanting to give up trying to destroy all that is young and beautiful inside the soul.

Then a young saviour dies.

And is brought back to life again.

Wait -- not just brought back to life again -- think this bible says that He lives forever.

And that all who believe in Him live forever too. Like in this really, really unimaginable perfect place.

Hmm.

Back to really, really abnormally large classroom...

So glad to see that you could join us again Steve Speyers. Looks like they have been really putting you to work back there in Butler.

But think you should leave the pick axes out in the country. Don't think that you couldn't have had much luck with the doves with that as weapon anyway.

Tough Questions for Christians -- How reliable is the Bible?

"What is the Bible?" Kathryn asked assorted stones seated round.

"God's written word," Margaret said. "The Truth," Karen offered. "Research book, " said H. query who is H? Know you were sitting on that side of class..... It will come to me.

Oh -- "Heather" (of course - just kept think Hannah and knew that wasn't right.)

Kathryn asked all to think if you were God, what would You use for guide/blueprint for us mere mortals?

Think He must have decided on the bible. And then there was Jesus -- i guess. "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy, but to fulfill." Matthew 5:17.

The bible took about 1000 years to write, there were 40 some odd authors and was written on 3 different continents. Asia, Africa and Australia. No think the last must have been Europe -- for wasn't Paul in Rome writing lots of his letters?

Old Testament was done by about 500 B.C. -- preserved in Hebrew on scrolls.

By the end of the First Century A.D., the New Testament was finished written in Greek on Papyrus -- a thin-paper like material made from crushed reed stalks. The word "bible" comes from the same Greek root word as papyrus.

The New Testament was written by Apostles/eye witnesses to the events or someone who was close associate of such type of person.

Kathryn asked all if this document is trustworthy considering all the transcribing and translating that has been going on with it during all these years.

Ruth and Cindy spoke of how we all are able to get out our little Strong's and research back to the Greek on these words. Or even a tried and true King James -- if we really are not sure of some translation we are reading.

In 16o4 , King James the 1 -- authorized a translation of bible. 47 scholars took six years to create what we now know as the King James Version. The KJV has been revised four times.

Now Aubie, my neighboring seatmate, think you were much closer than me to guessing date that Gutenberg, a goldsmith by trade -- Heather, printed his first document off his press.

That being the bible -- first published on September 30, 1452. Happy belated birthday to you -- Karen (9.15.) -- oh keeper of the Milestone birthday files. Looks like we must add the Guttentachen bible to our list of September birthdays.

Then Kat finished up a very, very fine lesson with an amazing visual aid -- they add so much to class. It gave the timeline of many accepted historical documents and authors and our bible had way, way, way more -- well, lots of more proof. Written much closer in time. That kind of stuff.

She recommended Lee Strobel's Case for Christ as excellent resource for those wanting to research such stuff further. The adult person that i have been known to occasionally cohabitate with concurred that it is very authoritative and well done book on this subject.

Great Job Kat!

Next week: Do all religions lead to God?

Great Books and Even Greater Fairy Tales

Have always been one to want to believe in Fairy Tales. I mean when i read a book i want it to have a happy ending.

Was recently with group of friends and we all we talking about our favorite movies and books. I felt like total deep thinker reject.

Everyone kept coming up with these esoteric intellectual treatises -- well, not everyone -- remember someone agreed with me on DUMB and DUMBER. But that person shall remain anonymous for his own intellect's appearance protection.

Snow White, Dumb and Dumber and the Bible.

Don't know where this is going to go? Sometimes even i like being surprised. hmm.

Guess people write things: songs, movies, books, blogs because they have something to say.

Whether it is written for escape, joy, humor, historical accounts, news, depravity, evil, stupidity, or a grade. There usually is a reason for thoughts out of thin air to be place on paper for good or for bad.

Why has the human race been writing/communicating since time began and why oh why of all the trillion things that have been written by brilliant people and very average people -- has the bible survived so amazingly in tact?

Why does it change lives? So many millions upon millions of lives through the centuries. Why was it something that i loved to hear my grandmother read to me at three -- and now after 40 more years of reading it is richer, bolder, more amazing, more metaphysical -- yet still as comforting as sitting on my grandmother's lap?

Why doesn't reading Snow White affect me the same way? Sure, occasionally i like to tie a red bow in my hair and make john put on a purple cape/bathrobe, but it just isn't the same as when i was three clonking around in my mother's shoes.

The bible is alive. There is no other explanation. It reaches in, touches places, and transports the reader like nothing else ever written. It is a love letter in best since. One you keep out and want to read over and over and over. Because it is true. and the best part is that..........

We all live happily ever after.

Milestone Announcements and Prayer Requests.

Please keep Scott Mason your prayers. He is recuperating at home from knee surgery. Bonnie, his mother, said this has been very difficult on all and that Scott wants to get back to school as soon as possible with his friends.

Michele Hoopengardner's sister is going to have a C-section on Tuesday for the birth of their first child. Please pray for mother and baby.

Send those birthdays into kargri@aol.com.

It was motioned, seconded and voice vote approved -- we Milestones are now official Church Green Hangers. Margaret, think we could get the worship committee to go with temporary ice rink down in front of altar rail. Just a thought.

Buy your pansies from the Preschool. They are taking orders. And does anything brighten up the gloom of winter like those little happy pansy faces. ok -- don't answer that.

Good Week,

God Bless and

Good Grief according to the map we've only gone 4 inches!

"Do i Feel Lucky?" College Football 9.16.06

2006-09-14T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good Grief!

Last week i was something like 0 for 44!

On Saturday night i was getting a wee down -- as in a tad depressed.

i mean Penn State had gotten killed, TX was going nowhere and it was becoming evident that there was no Spurrier hex on Dawgs.

i was amazing failure in my debut as Pigskin Parimutuel.. i mean...Pigskin Paranormal-kind of person.

John was like, "Jamie what did you expect.. you picked all the underdogs."

No, i didn't pick all the underdogs. Well, in hindsight guess maybe i did, but there was a reason i picked all my teams last week.

I just like them. i really, really like them. And call me "girlish" but i want those whom i like to win. But i guess this high-likability quotient as stratagem didn't result in boon of winning picks. No, i didn't fare so well. bummer.

But give up? Never! Why not admit there are somethings i should just leave to the professionals? i am not really sure, but do think i will try new strategy this week. Just completely ignore every screaming estrogen cell in my body and think with only left side of brain. This should be quite easy and fun.

Analytical, no-nonsense, logical -- why hadn't this occurred to me before? Just were is my Enrst & Young softball cap? Those accountants are terribly logical thinkers aren't they. Well, i can't seem to find such beanie, so will have to trade in Cobber headgear for what?

My all black, "Sustained Pain" cap. Yes, very no-nonsense very "Dirty Harry."

Yes, i can be tough-nosed prognosticator, not one to get bogged down in silly nonsensical things like wanting quarterback's who swim across pond in middle of night to save neighbor's life -- to well, win.

Yes, "Dirty Jamie" that's me.

Though not one at all for guns or violence.

And really what is at all violent about Football? Aren't games all quiet quaint Tea Partys? Yes, am so going to like all this Toughness. For that is what this week is going to be TOUGH. Separation Saturday. That even sounds painful.

There are many, many most excellent games on tap. Yes, great Saturday to watch College football, if only weren't for this added pressure of monitoring my choices of who is actually going to win these games. oh dear.

Pressure. What Pressure? i live for Pressure Packed Picks. i think.

So as i give tug on my very testosterone "Sustained Pain" cap, let's see whose on tap for this week.

Make My GameDay -- In Deed! Jamie's Pigskin Pick'ems September 16, 2006
(now that looks tough)

same as last week: 2 big nationals, 1 acc, 1 sec, gators and ponies.

#19 Nebraska v. # 4 USC, 8 p.m. ABC

Oh Big Red -- where have you been? Remember so well watching Huskers trounce Gators in 1995 on route to winning second straight National Championship. Then all went silent in Lincoln.

Oh sure, there were the occasional police sirens on way to arrest high profile Huskers -- but other than that it has been pretty quiet in Red Country. Especially on the football field. i mean where have all those gigantic cornfed linemen been running off to?

Nebraska could be back. Can't believe they haven't been before now. Think the Husker faithful must be about to explode into fields of popcorn by now.

Think Nebraska does have some type of defense -- they led the nation in sacks last year with all returning. And they did play well as a team in opening games against nobodies. oh dear.. Think they get something like 17 points -- that seems like an awful lot.

Let's see who are they playing?

Oh yeah, they are travelling to Southern California. The University of Southern California. Think they (USC) have been playing good football of late, but they are young and inexperienced. Then they have had lots of injuries to some good Trojans. What's the logical choice? USC is playing at home, but John David Booty is in only 2nd game as starter. He looked good against Arksanas, got stronger as the game went on but who's to know if he is real deal?

Wonder if Tommy Lee will drop in for a set with his friends in Marching Cornhusker Drum Corps? You know Nebraska might could do it, they surely will cover the points. No, this will be Nebraska coming out party.. yes, totally would be their huge debut back into National title hunt, except for ...

Pete Carroll.

ok -- new tough girl like me can't use the l-word. But if i could i would really, really use it.

For i really, really love Pete Carroll.

Ok -- he is great recruiter, motivator and coach.

He's so cool. Remember on field interviews before one National Championship game. Bob Stoops looked as uptight and nervous as cat in room full of rocking chairs. Pete looked like he was asking the interviewer if she wanted him to pick up a coke for her as he was just about to stroll out of stadium down street to McDonalds for a quick pregame snack.

He's just so positive, energetic and well, adorable.

ok -- that was very slight estrogen moment, but Booty and company will handle Huskers. Sorry Tommy Lee. 17 points? That's tough, but i live for glamour on the gridiron. And USC is glamour on the grid -- at least for the moment.

Give me USC and the points.

#11 Michigan v. #2 Notre Dame, 3:30 p.m., NBC

Go Blue. Hail to the Victors! Great Fight Song. Ann Arbor. Bo Schembechler. They've got it all. Or at least they used to have it all.

and guess Lloyd Carr is the coach now. He really, really needs to win this game. Think the Maize and Blue faithful most certainly are getting awful restless.

Now Michigan RB Mike Hart seems to be for real. If he gets a chance to run -- and QB Henne then can throw -- Michigan could win. Defensively for Michigan to have a chance -- they have to get to Quinn.

Georgia Tech pressured little leprechaun #10 and Brady was most definitely off his best game.

Can the Blue win or at least cover 6 points?

This is really poser. Why?

Because i in "Dirty Jamie" mode have intuitively realized that the Gold Domers are definitely in the lead for team to "Most Likely to Screw With Me" all year long.

I just don't buy it. Can't buy that they are for real. i just hate it when this happens.

Here i am trying to be analytical and logical -- everything from left side of brain is thundering... "Notre Dame will win -- you idiot."

Yet, i hesitate. Hmm?

Notre Dame will lose sometime this year. i feel it. Only problem is after this -- about all on schedule are 2 of the academies. Go Air Force. Guess they do ultimately have to meet up with Pete and GlamCorp on November 25 in Southern Cal.

But am holding every other girly intuitive thought captive. Reason. Carr won't be able to handle Sudden Impact of game.

Sorry for him, but Irish will win and cover the 6.

From South Bend travel to.........

Tallahassee

ok -- guess i could have picked Miami v. Louisville. In fact, i had. But changed mind. The Bowden Bowl -- although not as hot a commodity as has been in past -- still is fun.

And besides, i love all those Mad Clemson People.

David, my Dentist, my former neighbors, Jake's former school teacher. i want you to win -- or your team that is.

But guess if truly candid, Clemson would be close 2nd for team "Most Likely To Screw With Me" this year. But all that sounds terribly sensitive, hormonal and femgal.

There she is Miss Clemson. Actually, i think it was some type of Miss America chick. But bet she would have liked to have been Miss Clemson. Really is there not a little girl in South Carolina who wouldn't want to be?

ok -- don't answer that. It's getting later and i need to be the Enforcer.

No more XX thoughts. Only XY.

Clint really was cute back then. Where was i? oh yeah.

Clemson v. #9 Florida State, 7:45 p.m. ESPN

Father and Son.

Bobby and Tommy.

Winner and Loser.

Poser: which one?

Ok -- all experts, which i am certainly not one of, say this is a must win for Tigers. Sorry David. Though you probably don't mind pressure. Hey -- i forgot -- Dirty Jamie doesn't mind pressure either.

In fact, she thrives on it. And in fact, i think this is key to game.

Pressure. Can FSU put pressure on Clemson offense? Will Clemson QB Will Proctor be able to move team against Mickey Andrews and his FSU defensives?

FSU has to find way to get RBs moving North and South in this game. They must find ability to get the ball up field on the ground. If they can do this the game is theirs.

But Noles looked very lack-luster in game last week against Troy. This game is at Doak Campbell. FSU is 52 - 9 on ESPN.

Will it be 53 - 9 or 52 -10 after Saturday? "To tell you the truth in all this excitement, i've kind of lost track myself."

Guess question to ask self is...do i feel lucky?

Don't know about lucky, but here is the dirty bottom line. Clemson will need to play better than they have been, but in minor estro-moment flare-up or coin-flip, my judgement thinks Tigers will rise to occasion.

FSU will be 52 - 10 on ESPN after Saturday. i take Clemson and won't even need the 5. i think.

"Here Kitty, Kitty..."

# 6 LSU v. #3 Auburn, 3:30 p.m. CBS

ok -- this is a big game.

Both teams are playing great. This is really going to be hard. i mean Auburn is playing on The Plains of something. i guess central Alabama somewhere.

Auburn has the home 3.5 and that is it. What's a nitty, gritty girl to decide?

LSU has the nation's no. 7 scoring offense. Auburn has the nation's no. 7 scoring defense.

Time tested football mantra: Defense wins championships.

But LSU coach has great last name. And was former coach at Oklahoma State, for which i have many, many personal reasons to have major warm feelings inside.

Both teams could eventually be in hunt for National Title.

Tigers (LSU) have yet to go Florida and Tenneesse.

Tigers (Auburn) have Florida and Georgia at home.

Ok -- this is troubling. Not really so much for LSU v. Auburn. But cracker jack reporter that i am, noticed Gators on slate for both teams. i hate when that happens.

Guess have to make decision. This should be great game. If Auburn RB Kenny Irons can have breakout performance -- game is Auburn. Since it is getting late. Will just have to Call It: Auburn will cover 3.5.

Now for some real Orange and Blue.

#7 Florida v. # 13 Tennessee, 8 p.m. CBS

oh great. a night game.

upside. Don't have to spend majority of good part of afternoon inside on couch with stomach in knot.

downside. If you lose, really not time to fully accept devastation in consciousness before going to sleep. Which results in that horrible "morning after" moment. You awake happy for new day, then reality of fact -- yes, Gators lost to TN -- the world as i know it has ceased -- comes crashing in.

On those mornings, it's best to give kids poptarts, crawl back in bed, pull covers over head and play hooky from church. For there -- in a religious setting --- all types of evil Bulldogs lie in wait for perfect moment to pounce on hapless me. Never really understand why they feel entitled to give grief for other team's victories over my reptiles.

Sign seen approaching Watkinsville yesterday, "Go Bull Dawgs...Boiled Peanuts." i guess that explains a lot.

Tennessee. at Rocky Top. Full Philmer. Who is going to win?

This is very big game for Vols and Gators. Vols have talent. Just where do they keep getting these compact amazing RBs? i'm getting really, really tired of it. QB Ainge. He didn't look all that sharp last week, but consensus is that he is the real deal.

And He has been very, very happy and protected. Getting days and days to throw. To have success, Gators have got to get to #10. Florida hasn't been burning it up in the sack department.

Chris Leak and Urban have seemed to come to a place where they can work together. i for one, hope this trend continues on Saturday.

Question is will the real Tennessee stand up. The team that looked awesome against Cal or the team that had trouble with Air Force.

For one i hope the later shows up in Neyland Stadium Saturday night.

Gators all the Way. Will cover 3.5.

My Ponies!

losing last week 24 -6 to North Texas. Now Mustang starting RB did go down in 1st quarter, but how oh how have things gone so terribly wrong.

Sam Houston State v. SMU 7 p.m. CBS

oh dear. it is very late (or early) and carpool duty is much, much sooner than later -- so can't take time to check spread.

But who am i kidding? What is the point?

Think Mustangs can handle the BearKats. i think.

i hope.

Here's to another Great Saturday of Football@!

i feel like i really got in touch with my left brain tonight.

It kind of hurts -- i think i touched it a little too much.

Signing off for another week. Hope all your teams win.

Especially if i picked them.

You just got to ask yourself one question? Do you feel lucky? Do ya, Punk?

Later Gators

"I Never Understood a Single Word He Said"

2006-09-11T06:20:00.000-07:00

"Joy to the World,
All the boys and girls now,
Joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea,
Joy to you and me." hoyt axton

That most excellent 3 Dog Night 70s tune was on radio this morning while mired in massive Primary Panda Parking Lot -- a.k.a.s -- morning carpool line inching closer and closer to door.

Loved that song.

i must have been extremely young, but can remember hearing it on the radio at time it was Top 40 recording. An A.M. radio in car. One speaker in middle of front dash. Think it was a blue dashboard -- though no memory of type of car.

Had great family day yesterday. i started off with most accidentally excellent relational church with Bhames -- then our tribe headed off into Atlanta for GA Aquarium. We Miles' were probably only family within 50 miles of Major Million Gallon Tank that hadn't been there visiting. But Jake had a birthday, and birthday's need to be celebrated in family way. So off we went.

Joe was little excited upon sight of tall buildings.

Skyscrapers, Parking Garages, all the exotic Birds (pigeons), Fire Trucks. Became quite apparent we didn't need to shell out any money for Fish House. The sights and sounds of downtown were excitement enough for HK and Joe.

This heard from backseat, "Daddy, Daddy look
that policeman is writing someone a note."

The joys of metropolitan Atlanta.

We parked, made walk and bought tickets which i guess you have to do to get into such places. Joe still under 2 for another month was free, Jake on the other hand is now 13 -- which means 3 adult tickets. Guess we should have tried to hit Disney once more before he hit ADULT in the mind of themed parks or such places.

But we go in and started looking at fish. Imagine that. There were tons and tons of fish in this place. For those who don't know our Joe intimately, he is a water freak. H2O specialist. So this was really his type of outing. Kind of was afraid it might be little too-stimulating for him.

Hannah was enjoying herself very much -- but petrified of the sting rays. Didn't think our house had been talking that much about the poor Croc Hunter and that terrible, terrible accident.

But must be word on street in PandaLand. No StingRays.

i always enjoy these places for it is educational and nice family time -- but to be honest -- i always feel tad sad. i can't help it, but i always end up thinking about the creatures' perspective. What do they think?

Now i'm sure some of these things have a brain the size of a flea -- so not really worried about them. It's just the others.

Like the Sea Turtles. They always look so sad. Of course they probably always look sad -- just because their eyes kind of downturn. But am sure they feel cramped or bored. Maybe that's why they are constantly up at glass -- a least the continual parade of humanity is changing vantage for their brains.

Like dolphins in such types of places .. i mean they always look so happy, those perpetual smiles on their faces.

ok -- not this kind of dolphin.

This kind of aquatic mammal. i mean they always look so happy. I always just wonder if they feel trapped. Sick of performing those stupid tricks and just have kind of resigned self to living their existence in a postage stamp pool of their potential universe of water here on earth.

Do all these sea creatures feel caged or do they have no idea what the heck they are missing?

They might like their safe little environment where everything is provided for them.

Yes, they are all very pretty and colorful.

And most of them probably do have brains the size of peas.

It does seem that the sea lions and otters are total hams and love performing in front of tons and tons of us bi-ped mammal types.

Yes, always think i am so stupid for worrying about the fish, turtles, penguins, and killer whales. Maybe they like their cubicle existence -- their very tight, constrained, protected time here on earth.

Are we any different?

How do we live -- content with our little space. i mean everyone seems to be so taken with the MYSPACE.com. idea. We love creating our space, living in our space, keeping others out of our space.

But what really is MYSPACE on the planet?

Days spent swimming around our in little 3 x 5 tanks, being fed, not having to really worry about predators for they are also fat and happy in our little perfect manufactured civilization.

Yes, some of us are very pretty.

Some very good at performing tricks and playing to the crowd. Guess we all are entertained by those looking in on us, but what do we do when the lights go out for the day?

Are we happy in our aquariums or do we ever feel constrained at all? Are we like the whale born in captivity unable to ultimately ignore the desire for more. Something deep inside us -- the way our cells were knit together -- all cry for something more than a few hundred thousands of gallons of manufactured sea water, and nothing to do but swim around and around in a circle all day long. Our only diversion being the occasional mullet thrown our way and having to heave all 3 tons of us out of water for flip on command.

Yes, does that baby know he was created to migrate thousands of miles and gifted with higher intelligence to experience all that is the mass expanse of the Pacific Ocean?

That makes me sad. It always makes me sad, but in some strange way i think the more tragic option is they have lost that innate pull to be free. Without boundaries -- to experience all they were woven to be. The desire to be more than circus acts in very controlled perfect world.

Is that Us? Have we become so content with this earth bound existence that we forget that we were created for something else. Created for a world and worlds beyond anything that we can comprehend.

I felt quite bonded to this poor sea turtle. Had a few personal moments. Wished i could have asked him how it was living in a water-filled shoe box compared to the Atlantic Ocean. Does he yearn for anything more even if he has no understanding why? Or has this aquarium bound creature resigned himself to living out rest of his earthly existence in captivity never even daring to dream for more.

i don't know, but think he did seem a tad sad.

Do we ever feel a tad sad -- like something is missing? Or are we happy living here in our perfectly manufactured environment -- content that someone might think we're somewhat powerful, pretty, quick-witted, successful or extra nice. Playing for the earthly roar of the very earthly crowd of our very earthly myspace of a fish tank.

Are we just performing tricks, filling up the hours in our days or are we living? i mean really and truly living? My guess is that we were created for much more..to soar above the mountains and dive to the depths of the seas.

But where we chose to live and how we chose to live -- is i guess -- our choice.

Well, as i glance around my little fish tank in the great wide universe think i really need to get up and change the filter. Literally. (or the dishwasher really needs to get unloaded and loaded)

And i really do think aquariums are good things. But they do make me tad sad-dish inside. Sad-dish for them -- the aquatic inmates.

Maybe the real irony is that us aquarium visitors are the ones who are truly in bondage. We're the ones with all the freedom and what the heck are we doing with it?

Now really have to put a halt all this aquarium introspection and check the PH levels around here. Must find iPod for that really, really helps us novice marine biologists get motivated for tank renewal.

Let's see.. Where's that newest download. There it is... starts with most excellent and most groovy electric organ sounds, then ..

"Jeremiah was a bullfrog, was a good friend of mine, i never understood a single word he said, but i helped him drink his wine and he always had a mighty fine wine, singing........"

"Joy to the world, all the boys and girls now........
Joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea....
Joy to you and me!!"

"Just What Have i Done?" College Football Gameday 9.9.06

2006-09-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

the great Carnak holding the hermetically-sealed envelope up to his turban.

answer: "Touchback"

Ripping open envelope and reading card.

question: " What's the smart thing to do when a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader touches you."

Hurrah! Football season has officially arrived.

There are plays to be called, balls to be tossed and cheers to be led.

i once sat next to one of famed Dallas Cowgirls in their hey day -- 20 years ago -- in class at SMU.

She was so nice, so petite and so cute.

So tiny really.

Well, guess all of her wasn't so tiny -- but she was really, really perky.

So once again time for all Bulldogs to start barking, Vols to start rocky topping and us Gators to start tail-gating and to procrastinating

-- oops -- i mean Pronosticating.

ok -- This is probably the bravest (or stupidest) thing i have ever done, at least re this blog. But i think it could be most fun.

so what the heck?

First, i have just decided that i need a hat, my own type of seer-turban. Wait a minute -- i'll be right back.

Picked out my Cobber Football cap. i really like it -- except that it is major FSU colors.

But it fits just great. Now i just have to think. Why because it is time for...

Jamie's 2006 Pigskin Pick'ems -- week of September 9

I'll be the first to admit the name isn't all that original, but i've got work to do. Don't want to sit here all night trying to think of perfect name.

Need to use all my brain power to decide who is actually going to win some of these games.

So here's the deal... i will pick an SEC game of the week and an ACC game of the week. Then look at 2 games that are of the National "BIG GAME" variety.

Then might have to look to Gainesville and Big D -- for no matter how terrible i am about picking winners -- i am none-the-less terribly loyal. So will look to see whom they are battling on grid with.

What games are there this week? Let's see.........

#1 Ohio State v. #2 Texas, 8 p.m.

oh dear. Now why is it this tough this early? Am really plebe at this type of thing.

Heather Schlabach pulled in front of me in White Expedition with screaming G on front plate in Preschool line. Really had to resist temptation to run and rap on window and ask her if she knew any scoop from Mark.

but guess i must go this alone if to be really my picks. But it is a nice picture Mark.

Though Joe Cardwell has one of you in cowboy hat and Lone Star shirt that is really spectacular. i really should email a copy of it to the ESPN.com brass. Think it would be good blog headshot if you ever tire of this one. Just a suggestion.

Where was i? Texas or OSU. Have read lots about heat. Have read lots about inexperienced QBack (TX) v. Inexperienced defense (Buckeyes).

Well, OSU has the experienced quarterback -- Troy Smith. But Longhorns QB has the way, way cooler name.. Colt McCoy -- are you kidding me? UT PR dept. must have loved that one. Right out of HIGH NOON.

Who will win? Probably OSU. But i am going to pick Longhorns.

Because of Colt (i love #13 too). They are at home. OSU's young defense won't mature enough from first to second game. Have to give coaching edge to Mack Brown over Jim Tressel. By just a hair. Both seem to have equally erratic history in big games.

and well -- i just keep thinking that Mark was wearing Lone Star shirt. That just settles it. Texas over OSU. Won't try to do points yet -- this is trauma enough for now.

#19 Penn State v. #4 Notre Dame, 3 p.m.

The Gold-Domers verses the Nitney Lions. Those little Honey Bees down the road almost had them last week. That would have been great. But that was last week. How will the Irish respond? How will Brady Quinn respond?

i don't know. Guess if i knew that i would not be a middle-aged housewife sitting at computer in middle-of-the night trying to figure this out with reasons like school with neatest team uniforms or meanest mascot.

But it is big game -- and i am very big game middle-aged housewife kind of gal, so.........

The Notre's are playing in South Bend. And there He is -- Touchdown Jesus --larger than life. Now will admit that Brady did not look up to all the hype against Jackets. But RB Darius Walker ran very well (99 yds, 1 TD).

The Lions have very inexperienced secondary. 4 new starters. 4 -- "hurrahs" for Brady and 4 -- "oh dears" for PSU. Akron scored 14 last week on the young four corps. Think Quinn will have settled down and do much better. Therefore Notre Dame should most definitely win. But i am going to take Penn State. Why? hmm. Don't really know at this point for all sounds good for Goldies.

But it's just........ Joe Pa. Coach Joe Paterno.

Love, love him.

Nothing against Charlie Weis -- except very gently suggest not tucking in shirt or maybe skip belt -- as sideline wear. Now that is something i probably am more suited for Head Coach Game Day Stylist.

i would be great.

Yes, Charlie is good coach who might need a little fashion advice.

But Joe Paterno is College Football. And in my opinion is Coverboy for NCAA Gentleman's Quarterly. Who looks cooler than Paterno? NOBODY.

and he is good coach. and no one, i mean no one (sorry USC you are 2nd) has uniforms that can touch the Nitneys.

i am sure there are other reasons that PSU could win -- but just have to go with Joe and my gut on this one.

#18 Clemson v. Boston College, 3:30 p.m.

There are so many of you Tigers out there. David, Mark & Lisa, the Forrests, the Webbs, Alsbrooks -- and countless many i am forgetting am sure.

Know that the school is in Clemson and that there is some type of rock that players rub. And then there is Death Valley.

Guess it would be good if they were playing this in the Valley of Death, but they are not.

It also would be good to get a little help from the people who do this for a living on this game -- but no one wants to say much. I know your Coach is one of those Bowden fellows. I really, really should say Clemson is going to win. Yes, Clemson is going to win -- but i am going to pick BC.

Why? Well, i love Beantown. And Bob Sauro went to BC and i love him. And every, every time without fail i picked Clemson for the Mad Citizen Paper College Game thing last year -- they lost. bummer -- for me and Clemson, i guess.

So therefore you will win Tigers -- for i did not pick you. But have always liked those Eagles.

Must be a Fluke Thing -- or Flutie Thing.

Yes, i will take Boston College over Clemson. Don't hate me Tiger Nation.

Just gave you the game with my pick. Promise.

Let's see who is left? Which game? Think there must be one more. oh yeah, now i remember.

#12 Georgia v. South Carolina, 7:45 p.m.

ok -- Got to be careful here. So many issues re these 2 teams for me that i could spend year on couch and not have it figured out.

But must give a tug on the bill of the Cobber cap and try to give my honest analysis of match-up.

Ok -- first, there is this plethora of QBs at Georgia. Wonder why when this happens at Florida it is always called a "Quarterback Controversy." But think Richt has this covered. The senior will start and the number 2 guy is ready to come in if need.

The Ugas have tons and tons of very, very fast players that can run with the ball. If they manage to keep the ball securely tucked under their very, very strong Bulldog arms -- that is.

Will also have to give Georgia edge in mascot and colors department. That scrawny bird and that sickly red and black are no match for that homely bulldog, but he is a dog and i am a dog-lover -- generic dog-lover that is -- and a true bright red and black rules. Well, guess both of you are ok with the black. i mean black is just black.

but Coaches aren't just Coaches. And Mark Richt is a mighty fine Coach.

And he usually looks mighty fine. But oh dear. Look here.

Putting on Head Coach Gameday Stylist hat, someone in UGA Athletic Department really, really needs to get that poor man a new shirt.

Certainly those big Georgia Athletic Bucks can get Coach another shirt. One that hasn't been scribbled all over. Good Grief! Upon closer inspection looks like the man has marked up himself.

Please Coach Richt, all sharpie handiwork needs to stay on the clipboard paperwork. Yes, he is good coach -- little crazy with the markers -- but can call the game. Georgia has the offense, has the defense. Yes, Georgia should win. Yes, Georgia most probably will win. But as i tug on my cap -- a tug in the gut -- says............

Can't pick against Spurrier. i remember all too well sitting in Gamecock Central with a billion ecstatic Cocks as the birds beat the Gators.

and well, can't explain it, but i just love the man.

Now, for i while i hated him -- but guess true love always comes back alive in the heart of middle-aged-housewife, sitting in front of computer in middle-of-the night.

Yes, Georgia will probably win -- but in my heart i really think South Carolina will do it. No can't explain it.

Guess it's just love.

Now must wrap quickly for it is getting late and i am not in anyway getting the big bucks for this way too in depth very mediocre analysis. Not like Schlabach.com

Yes, really need to find that Lone Star picture. Now just what is Cardwell's email?

Oh yeah. ....Who's left?

SMU -- dear, dear Mustangs. i pick thee, i pick thee, i pick thee. SMU over North Texas. Now i remember sitting in Texas Stadium when we would play them and beat them by a trillion. That was with Eric Dickerson and Craig James and pre Dealth Penalty. Think now they might handle them by 10 or 14.

Regardless -- "Go Ponies!" from Mad.

The University of Florida All i can say is you better win. UCF. Good Grief! The Vols are weekend after this. You boys need to get sharper. But still all hugs and kisses from Mad. At least from 605 South Main. and Ruth. and Mary.

Need to go to sleep. But don't think i will sleep well for after this exercise is now all down in print -- reading and re-reading all that online info -- my head hurts.

And i really think i am going to lose every game. Except FL and SMU.

But it was fun. i think.

Anyway, here we go again. College Football 2006. And why in the world would a middle-aged housewife sit at computer in middle-of-night typing nonsensical pick-game thing re College Football. Only one of 2 explanations i can think of. Either i am slightly batty or

it must be love.

Here's to nothing. Have great Saturday. i hope all your favorite teams win. Especially if i selected them.

oh dear. Just what have i done?

Mstones 9.03.06 -- What, no Cornbread?"

2006-09-03T12:40:00.000-07:00

i went to church last Sunday

So i could sing and pray

But something quite unusual
Happened on that day

Now church it started right on time
Just like it does without a doubt
And everything was all just fine
Except when it came time to let us out ....

....And the preacher he kept preaching
Long is the struggle, hard the fight
And i prayed, Father please forgive me
And then i stood up and with all my might
i sang..........

To the Lord let praises be
It's time for dinner now let's go eat
We've got some beans and some good cornbread
And i listened to what the preacher said

Now it's to the Lord let praised be
It's time for dinner now let's go eat......... from "Church" -- Lyle Lovett

ok -- That is one great song. After listening to all 6 minutes of it few times, i really feel like i have been to church in the best most gospel type of way. Very worth the .99 download! And since a few of the Mflock were out of church on this Sunday before Labor's Rest -- maybe you should take a listen.

Church, music and food. And the Lord said," it was all very, very,very good!"

Now this Mreporter understands that there has been little discussion re importance of church lately in Mstone class. Think it was tad lively. Now it seems food and it's place in our spiritual life has been called into question?

Well, can somewhat in my open-minded best understand questioning need of large corporate worship. But suggesting abstention from food.

Just who is this trouble-maker bringing these very crazy ideas to Mrock Central -- for Pete's sake?

No fried chicken on Sunday -- scandously sacrilegious really!

Milestone 9.03.06

Yes, it was back to discipline this week. The Spiritual Disciplines that is.

Our very disciplined teacher asked all, "Why would one want to engage in Spiritual Disciplines?"

1. To place myself before God to be changed.
2. To liberate myself from slavery.
3. To enable myself to do things that i cannot accomplish through sheer effort or self will.

Participating in these Spiritual Disciplines have the ability to draw us into the abundant life. John 10:10

Ok -- will just come out and admit it. There are a lot of these disciplines that Pete has listed every week -- and lots of you have written them down. i just haven't happened to be one of those writing them down. That would require concentration, diligence and well, discipline.

There just seems like there are soooo many of these disciplines, and the teacher talks soooo quickly and i just always am hopeful they might appear on a handout one Sunday.

"There is a route to a closer relationship with Jesus Christ and that route is Jesus himself," "For the Christian, heaven is not a goal; it is a destination. The goal is that Christ be formed in you." Richard Foster

Christ formed in us. That kind of sounds like it could be painful. Think Pete made some analogy to the catepillar. How the catepillar has to go through the very weird metamorphing chrysalis period before becomes the butterfly.

Don't know if the change process is painful -- am sure it gets a tad cramped in that small rent free flat. And do know that there is a lot of feasting going on before colorful slug-like creature goes into transform mode.

Once the whole process is done -- an amazing creature emerges.

In the dark, tight, uncomfortableness of that cocoon, after all the intensive changing, rearranging and renewing takes place --

What have you got? A butterfly!

A creature that was remade beautiful. Transformed from homely earthbound creature to one that can soar.

Flying....Great idea! Inquiring Mminds want to know......How to we MFly?

All the gathered glanced down at Spiritual Discipline handout and it said......

Fasting. just like that. big and bold -- except with out the period. i just liked the way it looked with period.

My neighboring seatmate Rick turned and mumbled under his breath something about wondering what was to eat? oh dear. Poor Rick is in need of little primer on fasting.

Pete's Primer on Fasting.

In our culture, the norm is to satisfy every craving at moment (or at least within 30 minutes) of onset of said desire.

What Fasts are not: diets or hunger strikes.
Fasting is abstaining from food for spiritual purposes.

Centering on God is the Primary Reason. Luke 2:37 & Acts 13:2
* reminds us to center on God
* there is time created for focusing on God.

Fasting can reveal what controls us.
Remind us that we are sustained by God. Matt. 4:4 & John 4:32 -34

Class Fast Chat

Think many gathered had some type of reaction to this fasting idea.

Do without food? Does that mean water only or is juice ok? Coffee -- not my coffee? What if i give up everything but hamburgers and diet coke?

Laree made observation that doing without food might provoke an emotional response to that hunger. What ever trauma is lying there controlled under the surface might break through much easier. Whatever that emotion might be...sadness, anger?

To which sage Margaret replied, "Can't you just drink when those things come up?"

Well, as i sat there pondering away -- did she mean juice or something tad stronger? It became quite evident from class reaction that the liquid refreshment referred to was a juice or "drink" -- that had been fermented or aged little longer than Ocean Spray.

Now query for me at this point in transcription -- should i include a picture of such -- for am typing this within Mad city limits.

But Kirk never reads these things so think i will include this nice etching, line drawing type thing. Think this is very sensible compromise to my "city limits" dilemma.

"You can have food without life...
But can't have life without Me." think Pete said this.

Joe R. asked crowd, "Has anyone fasted?"

Stephanie told all that she had fasted during Lent on Mondays. She reminded us that Kirk had also fasted during Lent.

Types of Fasts

Normal -- no food, just water
Partial -- restriction of diet, but not abstention
Absolute -- no food or water
Group -- prepared people with one purpose

Matt asked, "what is the biblical/historical definition of fasting?" There are lots of examples of all types -- but seems that the traditional view is that of no food and just water to drink.

We know that Jesus fasted for 40 days -- and par usual He had strong views regarding fasting and about the heart of the fast-er and what lay deep within. "Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear t men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward." Matt 6:16

Good news is that Mstone Mfamily Mphysician MDr. Dan said that fasts are medically safe as long as you are taking in fluids.

For those interested in more information re fasting and prayer and such might want to look intohttp://www.billbright.com/howtofast.

Practical Suggestions

You want to make sure you don't have any health issues -- diabetes, pregnancy.

Our able teacher suggested that you start with a fast of 24 hours.

Though he said he had gone without food for 3 or 4 days or something like that. Good Grief, man are you part camel?

But you looks to be in fairly good health, so don't think it was to any of your harm.

In all honesty, no food -- only water. Think i feel like Joe R. who asked, "What are the benefits?"

Why fast? or could be titled -- guess this means i must think again.

Well, after church yesterday set out on bike -- for i am once again signed up for another tri-race before i sanely call it a summer.

As i was leaving Mad, here came fast Elizabeth on foot over RRtracks. Guess you and Jim have decided on another race too. Now she is fast.

i am not fast on bike. i just seem to think on bike. And thoughts eventually came around to this fasting thing. i just asked myself, "Self, what do you really think about it?"

Kept coming back to thought of no coffee or anything just water. No chips. i mean how would i be civil and not mental towards husband, children and friends?

No food, coffee or adult beverages? Just why was the thought of fasting -- abstention from all -- so disturbing?

Now guess i could do without the food for a while. But no coffee? No fruit of the vine type drinks. Could i do it? Just what was so uncomfortable?

Then it hit me,

Right as i was approaching Rutledge -- I need to be filled. Simple as that. I need to be constantly filled with something.

It was the thought of being completely, absolutely empty that was so terrifying. Why do i like food? It tastes good, gives me energy and fills me up.

Why to i crave caffeine? Because it is an Upper. It is a mood alter-er. i can do more, be more with it in my system. Same is true of other non-water types of emotive enhancers. Ice cream, Iced Cappuccino or something else poured over ice.

A normal fast would entail water and me. bummer.

Yes, here i would sit. Just me. No entertainment.

What would fill me up? What would take the edge off those hunger pains? What would alter me -- help me navigate life?

And guess more honestly -- there would be nothing to enhance my view of me. By being completely empty -- guess all the good and all the bad are pretty exposed. No way to cover, hide or ignore those things i've been trying to escape.

Oh my.

Guess that was whole point. And probably -- at least re me -- why i should ask God if i should fast. The only thing left to fill me up would be God.

Not food, drinks, exercise, extremely loud (albeit great) music or a pill. Just being filled with Him and seeing what He and only He feels like.

How novel and how scary. At least for me.

But maybe i should turn over a few rocks inside -- or let Him turn them over -- and show me what He wants thick-headed, caffeine loving me to learn.

Many thanks again, Pete. i think.

Prayer Requests and Annoucements

Savannah Angel's surgery went amazingly well. She was able to leave the hospital earlier than expected and everyone is very, very thankful.

i have been in moment-by-moment contact with Troy as to whether we will have Sunday School next week. It is Homecoming. There is only one service at 11 a.m. and there is lunch afterwards. FOOD! hurrah! Will be sure to forward any news re Milestone class status.

God Bless, Good Week and ...

"The moral of this story,
Children it is plain but true
God knows if a preacher preaches long enough
Even he'll get hungry too".... lyle lovett

Sandestin 2006: i just felt like something was missing!

2006-08-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Sandestin!

August 26, 2006
5:30 a.m.

Here we were...

Straight from tri-training amongst the cotton fields of Bostwick and the mean streets of Mad. Bikes were loaded and transition bags packed. TEAM Cotton Patch was ready to head up the road to do another one of these tri-things. Good Grief! Hasn't anyone come to their senses yet?

The Patchcrowd awoke to sounds of crashing surf, wind and a red flag on beach. eek! Mr. WarTigger awoke to find self one year older by the calendar. eek!

Not really, Lieutenant Dan for you are by far the youngest looking 75-year-old i have ever, ever encountered.

Just Kidding. For even though you are slightly older than this reporter, in reality you look tons younger -- and that just suc_s! (guess only for me -- and not for you) And you really do have springs or something in your feet. It really is not fair. Ageless and Springy! You must have made pact with some Netherworld creature, or just gifted by God with good genetics. One way or the other -- you're freaky -- in the sincerest most complimentary way.

Yes -- John, Jeff, Rick, me, and Birthday Boy were ready to go. Just seems like something or someone was missing. Hmmm.. i actually started getting little concerned. Kept having that feeling that we were leaving something behind.

But another quick recount resulted in 5 tri-ers and 5 bikes. All were accounted for and we were off.........

Got to our little start area with no time to spare. Got marked. Set up our wee transition spaces and headed off for the beach. John was little nervous about getting down to sand on time, so in the interest of being good spouse and good Cotton-patch compatriot, i waved off my rule that you must make final pit stop in lovely PPotty.

This ppotty walk-by necessitated a warm-up swim in the ocean, which actually ended up being great as well as useful. Got used to the water and the waves, and really once we got out past the breakers -- wasn't all that bad. Though come to learn that there had been rumors of certain types of fish spotted off coast the day before.

And the water really was that nice and clear. Which was great -- except if you don't really want to see if such a lovely fish might be swimming under you.

No, more likely we would encounter some of our jellyfish friends from last year. Not exactly like the one pictured for i think one sting from this fine looking invertebrate would permanently takedown a cotton-patcher in 3 minutes.

So there we all were. All 700 of us tri-ers on the beach clutching our colored swim caps.

Then it dawned on me... i really need to find the other Mad tri-gals for final hug and thumbs up. Think the 30 - 34 s and Angela had just left when this realization hit me. Up next in the starting shoot on the beach, the 35 - 39s yellow cappers. That meant i had 5 minutes to locate Shelagh, Elizabeth, Sage and Hope.

I was scanning the crowd. Everyone looks soooo alike in those yellow latex caps and all that androgynous tri-gear. Couldn't even trust scanning down to look at all those athletic-type legs. So many of those tri-guys' legs are way more manicured and comely than mine. oh dear. Time was ticking.. just where were those girls?

First, spied Elizabeth and Shelagh down front on far right. Shelagh motioned to not get too close for she had some type of stomach sickness the night before. oh dear. Elizabeth had her usual smiling, just out for morning dip in ocean calm about her. They both looked great and both are great swimmers. Knew that each would be fine and faster than me. Both of which turned true. Gave each quick hug and kiss on top of yellow latex and was off to find those others.

Now Shelagh had pointed me in right direction to Hope and Sage. Found them no problem. Both were understandably little anxious about swim. i managed to try to say something pollyana peppy about the water being great -- which it actually was -- though tad wavey. "Remember ladies, just keep moving forward" was my big sage-ish advice. Time was counting down -- so quick hug and kiss on top of cap for those two and then they were off.........

Time for us of the light blue swimcap crowd to advance to water's edge. Looked up and saw Jeffrey striding up -- cap on -- yet longish locks out. Gave him big hug and kiss on cheek. Then he was off to place his toes in the ocean for he had "the eye" this year. Then remembered Dan. Had to wish birthday boy good luck. Saw him with the other's waiting in next group. Hug and kiss. Rick standing back with the very fit monsters in the Clydesdales -- kiss and hug.

Then found my way back to john, my husband. Poor guy was looking kind of nervous. He later said, "i felt like i used to before trial of big case." Gave him big hug and kiss on head and cheek. Now kiss on mouth would have been totally legal and even appropriate with him -- but he looked just so dang nervous -- i kind of felt mother-ish towards him at that moment.

Then once again had that feeling... there was someone else that needed that good luck embrace. i need all the good luck i can get. but before i knew it.........we were off..........

and before i knew it all those big orange buoys had somehow been swam past and my feet were on the sand. Hurrah! Time to run across the blasted sand, up that blasted wooden ramp, to that blasted mat. For that was the official timed end of your swim. So across the sand we went.

i made it across the sand and up to the mat just fine. Was thrilled to hear the roar of the crowd. Here are our very lovely and exuberant cheerleaders. Dorothy Newton and Carrie Christie. Now Coach Karen stepped in to role of official photographer this year. A very thankless job. But she was not only snapping action photos like a seasoned SI photog -- she was cheering us all on as well!
Here comes John out of the water.

He's the only one with the raised arms. i think he was tad happy!

as he should have been....he did most excellent.

But this is not a swim meet. There are two more legs to this thing.

So all the Cotton-Patch made it off the beach up to transition and to the bikes.

I like this certain transition. for when i make it up there, there are lots of bikes patiently waiting. This is good because that means their riders -- the other 40 - 44s -- are still on other side of fence in water or sand trying to get to their trikes. So i have momentary glimmer of superiority feeling... only to hear.. "Looking great Jamie", Jeff calls as he is running out of transition with bike helmet on and bike along side.

ok -- i think -- Jeff is flying this year. Now where are my socks? John is across the way doing great, but i beat him out and start riding.

then the inevitable starts to happen. All those 40 - 44 men that i beat out of the water all start to pass me on the bike. i just hate it when that happens! but it isn't bad at all to be passed by members of the Patch -- for i love them. Jeff was ahead i knew that. Shelagh and Elizabeth were already up there with their agers -- and knew i wouldn't catch them. So i peddled and tried to remain positive, darn it!

John passed... love, love to him. Tigger passed. i got give him a "War Eagle" or "Happy Birthday" or something like that. Then Rick passed. Now he was haullllling......... i remember where he passed me last year. Good Grief! Turn around and back up 98 into massive headwind. lovely. But kept eyeing for someone else. Just who did i think was not there? Hmmmmmmmm.

Then before i knew it back to transition, ready to finish with those 4 wonderful miles. Hurrah!

ok -- what's wrong with this picture? First, lots of other bikes. That means lots of other tri-guys and gals who started with me passed me on their flippin' bikes and are already running. and second, for the first time in my life i am putting on sock/shoe rather that shoe/shoe. Yes, transitions in triathlons are perfect places to try something new. Third, Karen had just called out in her good-hearted best, "Shelagh's on Fire!" Ugh! i feel old.

But i truly am not the least bit competitive. not i!

i manage to pull rapidly aging self off asphalt and try to get legs working forward and backwards. This is always tough part. Your legs really protest. They cry, "i have just been moving up and down for 25 miles -- we can't move front to back. That's really hard for us legs and in case you've forgotten, you're really old."

But i trudge along. And about mile 1, my legs decide this running thing is inevitable so they somewhat warm up to idea of moving forward and backward. This happens about the time i see Elizabeth running by. Correction -- i notice her -- because she very sweetly cheers, "Hey Jamie" as she motors by in other direction. i do smile. She is so cute and nice. and she is just fast. and i am just slow.

One foot in front of other to finishline. Finally done. Yeahhhhhhhh!

Here we are. All happy and proud as we should be!

Now think Sage has run for a drink of water and Elizabeth was so far ahead of all of us that she is taking a shower in her hotel room.

Yes, we are all so happy. Ready to go up to pool for annual post race libation and picture...

Then it finally hits us.... the original Cotton-Patch crew. We forgot David!

How could we have made such mistake? Was he sitting in drive on Skyline with bags packed and bike along side with sad little face. Wondering how -- oh how -- we could have left him. Jeff and Rick were hopeful that he had somehow made it down alone. John and i felt like we let one of the Praise Team down -- now that's bad. Dan was so upset -- he just couldn't even look at anyone of us. He knew how much David was looking forward to a slice of the strawberry birthday cake his mother always fixes for us Patchers. oh dear!

Ok -- we really didn't forget you David. We knew you were in SC at Sarah's parent's 50th -- but we so, so missed you!

How could we forget you David -- for it was so fun to give you recap of race Saturday night! Yes, we were out having most excellent feast.

Triathlons and day at pool and on beach can really, really take it out of a girl!

Yes -- David -- true Cotton-Patch compadre that he is had slipped one of us plenty of fundage to provide for lots of rehydration fluid for us spent athletes and cheerleaders. What a guy!

Then he had to suffer through lots of individual highlights by cell -- as the phone was passed round.

Jeff mentioned to David that he thought TEAM Cotton-Patch should, "do more triathletes" next year. Hmm?

i remarked that it was so great "there weren't any Goldfish this year!" i think i meant to say jellyfish. Not really sure what Jeff meant?

Goldfish? Look at this guy. He's a man-eater i'm quite certain. Yes, thankfully there were none of them lurking out in the depths of the Gulf.

Cheers to you David! Cheers to the Cotton-Patch! Many, Many thanks to Coach Karen for all the pictures. Dorothy or Carrie... you know one of you (if not both) has to do this next year. Dan has already asked all back for his big birthday bash next August 26.

am sure David will be there.........who else out there is in? Want to see lots of new faces !

So this humble reporter,

and even more humbled aging athlete is signing off from Sandestin for another year.

Ok -- really think about it: who else is in? The Few, The Proud, the Cotton-Patch!

Mstones 8.20.06 "Here's the church..Here's the steeple..Open the doors.. and See all the people."

2006-08-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

See all the people.

or our guest-Mstone teachers might pose..."Where's all the people?

hmmm. Guess there are always tons of people worshiping in this place pictured above.

And there was an extremely enormous crowd of Mstones in attendance in our place -- Mad FUMC.

Lots and Lots of visitors on hand as well.

In fact, the gathered had the great pleasure of our class discussion being led by visitors.. imagine that!

i wonder what church they belong to -- oh most confident and brave of Christian souls -- willing to face the large Millstone crowd.

Well, Natalie and Mark (opps, i mean Bill) Bhame were on hand to most ably lead us in a discussion geared to get us to think outside the box -- or outside the church, as in church building or that dreaded word......the institution of church.

Personally, i often feel institutions can be comforting entities. Yes, there are the institutions of ...... marriage, mental health, higher learning and government. Structure, structure, structure. i love structure!

and really i am being silly.

Think the way new Mgal Natalie started class discussion it was something like...."We are here to talk about ways to attend church not affiliated with any organized group or denomination."

Which sounded totally interesting and totally cool. Very undeserving of the introduction Pete gave his friends..hmm.. let's see it went something like, "The topic of discussion today will be an opinion that no one here agrees with."

What do they say... with friends like that?

Seems like our president had forgotten one small fact..........we are Methodists. All that Open Hearts Open Door stuff totally applies to the Mad Mcrowd as well. We are a pretty easy Mflock. Not much gets us ruffled or our wool fluffed, except maybe the occasional shearing that nicks a little too close to our skin.

But not attending church, offensive? Lots of us do that lots of the time........

So Natalie opened class with the thought that God leads us in different directions, into all different areas, during all different times of life.

She stated statistics that supported the notion that a lot of strong believers and lovers of God really aren't happy in traditional church/worship settings. Then there are also the many, many of the unchurched who feel intimidated by a building... and by all the people that parade into these buildings called churches every week.

Those outside who look in and see everyone dressed up in nice clothes, those who know all the words to say, and where the heck to drop their children off.

i must admit, God has such sense of humor. All those funky architectural renderings of our new church space lined up again our mega-classroom wall, and there we were discussing that maybe we are placing too much emphasis on a place, on a building, on a day or on a time.

btw -- i think we did begin class around 10:10:12 a.m. Not that it matters, or is in anyway important, but really is anything i write in these things?

So what is important? and what is "church?"

Of course the very traditional view of church points to a building. A place with four walls where we go to worship. Guess back in Jesus' day that was the Temple.

Natalie reminded all that at the moment of Jesus' death -- the veil to the Holiest of Holies was ripped into from bottom to top. Matt. 27:51.

This was a dramatic representation of our free access to the Father. An Intimacy that is now and forever because of Jesus' sacrifice.

With that closeness comes knowledge -- or at least the availability of it -- if we so choose.

The lesson then turned to the person of the Holy Spirit -- the believer's teacher, guide and source of wisdom. "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth..." John 16:13

Natalie then challenged us Stones not just to sit there... .to open our bibles and spend quiet time alone with the Father.... to be teachable, learning in the presence of the Holy Spirit -- not just waiting to come to a building on Sunday to be fed great bible I.Q. or great chicken BBQ.

(btw -- the latter is totally delicious, and comment is in no way meant to infer i in anyway don't want those Mad Methodist Men to keep char-cooking those birds to perfection. i live for those Sundays, but then i don't get out much.)

The Bhames reminded all Mrocks that we are continually receiving promptings from the Holy Spirit. Moment by moment, hour by hour, day by day -- not just on Sunday or Wednesday night.

As a family, they decided to make a conscious change to leave organized, institutional religion and live each day in worship -- in study of the Word of God and trying to be so in tune with the Lord that when He calls they go....... fyi: go to http://lifestream.org .

All of their energy is not directed toward an organized program, but to where they feel the Lord wants them at present.

Ok -- that sounds hard and difficult. All that centering on God stuff all the time. Then "going when Called."

Who could do that? Would have to be someone with Superduper God power.

Margaret mentioned that she is first hand witness to this "going when Called" stuff. See, the Ligons are neighbors of the Bhame family. She can testify to their commitment to keep their lives and schedules open to be teachable and used by God.

Must say we Miles also have been personal beneficiaries. A few years ago, when one of those storms blew through Mad... the might of Mother Nature took down many large trees. One of these unfortunate beasts, was a large pecan on our lot. After the excitement of "the event" had passed, we were left with a large tree and no way to remove it.

ok -- it costs a lot to move those things. Who would have guessed it? i mean the poor huge thing was already on the ground. We had no money. I mean really no money. i just hate it when large trees fall and there is no money.

Well, Bill and Pete took care of the tree, and i still am embarrassed for the little pittance we gave them. But it really was all we had at the time.

i noticed lots of fallen giants disappearing around town -- some from yards where i can only guess they had even less ability to compensate the duo than us Miles.

Then know of very large scale things http://aidexchange.org that Bill and Jeff are involved. An organization they founded after spending time down in New Orleans immediately after Katrina hit. You guys need to bring Bobbert Jones along and tell us about that amazing adventure.

You were called and you went. You are most excellent and responsible -- poster children really -- for the "unchurched" or relational church.

who would i, who could i be on placard for?

the hobbits. i would be perfect hobbit.

Yes, i am the perfect hobbit -- well, totally discounting fact that i am at least 3 feet taller and not as furry -- i do have the most horribly ugly feet!

i would love to eat all those meals they do. They really are homebodies. They detest idea of adventure or heaven forbid being called to do anything. Yes, i would be great hobbit.

Here i would sit. Yes, this would be my view of the world.

I could have great quiet times with the Lord. Look at that perfect little cozy nook. i can already spy me, cup of coffee and bible -- probably some study aid written by Beth Moore. If she was a hobbit -- that is.

If i was really a rich hobbit, i could send off many of my tiny checks written in large amounts all throughout Middle-Earth doing lots of good. It would be great -- God, me and my safe hobbit hole in the Shire.

Then one day, some day -- you know it would happen -- somebody would appear at my wee door with something. A need. A Call. -- i hate it when that happens.

God would be needing me to do something -- and i would be so removed from it all -- Would i go? Could i go? For i really am so weak and timid.

What would i do?
i would have to call on all my Mad fellow Mstone MHobbits.

After making the call, would most definitely have to hand off main MResponsibility of Call to another. Ruth, Rick -- Bob? Don't know, but someone else would most MAbsolutely have to be the MRingbearer.

But all i know is i would leave the safety of my hole and The Shire only if:

a. He Called,
b. you MHobbits were with me........

ok -- last point, was just for drama effect. i guess ultimately i would go it alone if He called -- but i would be terrified and i know it wouldn't nearly be as much fun.

Will do something novel and end on a scripture....

"Come to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious,

you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house , a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 2: 4-6

See, here we are. the wall.

i see Julie and Steve. Stephanie and Laree. Poor Krisitie is getting squished by Joe Cardwell. There's Susan peeking through-- if look quick you can see her -- every now and then. Mark and David. Jeff -- you are there too -- think have to have Chanin sit on you to keep you still.

Some are big, some are small -- some are misshapen, troy ( luv u -- totally kidding!)

i'm one of those really, really flat ones.

But all together -- whether MHobbits or MStones -- we rock! and are really, really strong.

Ruth said it all so eloquently -- so i had to get silly with my commentary. like i really needed an excuse.

But i think our little Mad MShire is tops!

Would hate to think of going it alone without you.

the bottom line:

Church is very, very important in my life. ( now that Ruth made me think about it.)

It is so much larger than life -- Big Time/Peter Gaberial -- is on my iPod right now.

In the chaos that we all live, it is increasingly more important to bond with believers. We need each other. We were re-made in Him to serve and help each other. We need the wisdom and stability found in something so much larger than us as individuals.

The church does ask commitment. eek! We vow to support her with our Prayers, our Presence, our Gifts and our Service. But guess nothing ever worthwhile in life didn't require our best -- not what would best fit into our weekend plans.

and that is about as bottom-line as a hobbit can get.

"and i will pray to a big God, as i kneel in a big church........."

thank you Bill and Natalie. if you ever decide to join a "big" church, we are very fun group.

and you might conclude we are ( or someone is) in need of some help if you ever read this.

Prayer Requests and Annoucements

Please keep Alleyne Womack in your prayers. We are so thankful that all the treatments of her doctors are working. Master Healer please continue to work an amazing miracle in her life.

Please remember the family of Grace Gnehm as she recently passed away. We especially keep her husband Don in our prayers.

Let us all keep Savannah Angel in our prayers. Her surgery is scheduled for September 1. We pray everything goes perfectly with the procedure. Please give parents Alisa and Larry peace.

SURPRISE! we love you -- Alisa.

God Bless. Good Week.

and Good Grief! got so busy, think i must have missed 3 rd breakfast! bummer!

"You have the Right to Remain Silent..."

2006-08-17T12:09:00.000-07:00

I picked up HK from school last Thursday.

Correction -- has it already been 2 weeks since school started? I picked up Hannah Kate on Thursday, August 2, two weeks ago after her second day of kindergarten.

She had been spending afternoon with 2 of her many "favorite boys" -- Austin and Peyton Hoopengardner. As we all settled in for the trek back up 441 toward Mad, i harmlessly asked, "How was your day?"

Was somewhat turned around in her direction in car for i was trying to navigate Hoopengardner mountain -- backing down in reverse. Michele -- have no idea why i just don't turn the car around and proceed forward down hill? Maybe i just like the adventure of trying to navigate perilously down cliff in reverse and still stay on drive? i like a challenge -- what can i say?

From this turned-around vantage point, i saw HK unzip Pink Pony purple bookbag, reach in, draw out white slip of paper and say, "Here, Mommy -- you have to sign this before i can go to recess."

Sign this? hmm. Maybe some form i forgot to turn in? field trip permission needed? IOU for school lunches dished out, but payment never received when Jake was a Primary Panda six years ago?

Glancing down, it was none of the above -- in fact it was something i had never seen before.

A note from the Asst. Principal. On the 2nd day of kindergarten, HK had been sent to the office!

Panda Prison! Ling-Ling or Sing Sing -- or whatever they call it?

After i picked my jaw up off the stained carmat, i said calmly -- think composed manner more from shock than any attempt not to get overly upset -- "Hannah, this is bad......." oh dear.

So the whole ride home, we discussed the infraction. Got a lot of "You don't love me-s" and "i don't love you-s" thrown my way all the while trying to get to bottom of the said "incident" that resulted in the incarceration.

Well, we finally got home and i said, "Go to your room -- i need to tell your father about this." As defiantly as she could -- and she can be extreme (remember the reason for this post) -- she marched all 38 inches of her wee self through back door.

I heard "Hey -- Hannie!" John's very exuberant hello. Then i heard silence for about half a second followed by a meltdown. Tears. Tears. and tons of tears. "Daddy!"

Now HK is one smart cookie. This could have been Academy Award-caliber performance as tactic #1 to avoid major punishment.

"And the Oscar goes to........."

But really think in this case, she was really and truly upset.

A little girl who knows she did something her Daddy is going to disapprove. That was more terrifying than any punitives handed out at Panda Penitentiary.

On the other hand 7 years earlier, Jake made it an entire year through Miss Sally's class with out so much as moving a clip. He never had to transfer his "safety" off green -- never, ever. Toward the end of the school year, i was rooting for him to do something -- anything -- to require clip movement. Challenge authority -- just a little -- please, son.

Well, i guess like Jake i was total first born as well. Didn't want to mess up. Didn't want anything to risk parental or faceless authority figure disapproval.

Can remember long ago nap time in Miss Annabel's first grade at Audubon Park Elementary. We were all on our red-and-blues scattered here and yon over the polished cement of our classroom like some huge cushy primary colored quilt.

One day in particular will always live on in my memory. Robert Miller and Keith Maddox were messing around. Giggling on their mats in that semi-dark lighting tossing some object betwixt them. Then she appeared ....... Miss Annabel. Now she was tall, thin, wore sensible cotton-print dresses with matching thin cloth-covered belts and oozed strictness, discipline and order from every pore of her paper thin skin.

oh dear... poor Robert and Keith. I was in fear for their very existence. Except a very odd thing happened. Miss Annabel came right to my wee mat and looked down. Her pencil thin, very proper lips parted and clipped, "Tracy -- come with me." Gulp!

Then she looked to my left over the metal tables and chairs to another child lying helplessly on his little mat and succinctly snipped, "Steven Brown -- you too."

Talk about "oh dear"..............And before i knew it, little Steven and i were behind her desk getting a talking too. In that darkened classroom, all those numbers and letters circling the room -- there we stood -- totally misunderstood. All the while feeling 25 pairs of eyes were boring into our backs. Everyone else i am sure enjoying all the drama unfolding.

Mistaken identity -- we had done nothing wrong. We both just stood there like little stoic soldiers and took the dressing down. Don't remember exactly what she said -- but i do know that there was lots of disapproval talk. The total and complete injustice of it all made amazingly bearable because at my side was little Steven Brown.

the future Steve Brown. Future Wildcat football star. Future WPHS Homecoming King circa 1980.

ok -- this is not actual picture of his coronation, but he did have curly hair and dimples. those dimples. He really wasn't my type blond, shortish, brown eyes, but even back then he must have had that dreamy homecoming king mojo -- and those dimples. All i know as petrified as i was of Miss Annabel's disapproval, it was still not so bad standing up there with Steven Brown behind her desk -- shoulder to shoulder -- in 1968.

As far as the present day, i am happy to report that things have smoothed out for HK at MCPS. At the Open House, her teacher said she really has become her best little helper. Give that girl a task, and she is happy, happy.

And quite frankly -- though i would absolutely refute emphatically that i ever said this if you tell anyone -- i think it is good to push the boundaries some. One thing is for sure, i know Hannie will never do anything just because the crowd is doing it. Now she might be the one leading the crowd down a crooked path --

Guess that is why she was given to us. Out of the millions of couples out there -- the Lord placed her amazing little self with us Miles. Sometimes i do wonder. Will i be up to it? I already know she is 10 times smarter than me.

Wonder if at the Panda Primer tiny schoolers are read their rights before they are sent on a one way fling to Ling-Ling. the Mirandas...let's see?

"Book-em Brill-o!"

"You have the right to remain silent...anything you say can and will be used against you in Dr. Meyer's office."

Guess that really is the sticking point in little HK's Primary learning curve. She does indeed have few silent thoughts, all wrapped up in a very strong will.

Told friend Steve Stromberg how our children' s first few days of school went -- there was some good, some bad. Jake made football, wee Hannie sent up the river. To which he replied, "She's just social!"

He's right. She's just social and just plain something else.

Don't really think she has a future in fashion design..

No, she'll probably have designs on something else.

the White House?

World Domination?

Guess it's our job as her parents to make sure she keeps going in the right direction.

Please keep us in your prayers.....

thank you.

Rainy days, Mondays and a little Discipline Always Get Me Down...Mstones 8.13.06

2006-08-13T16:53:00.000-07:00

ants. they were everywhere..ok, not really everywhere..but they had really taken over one shelf in the kitchen cabinets. Ugh!

We were rising a little later than normal for a Saturday. Enjoying first cup of coffee on porch, i spied a way too energetic Jeff Davis running along at mega warp-speed. i really didn't have my eyes fully opened yet. At this point of minor irritation with self for sluggish behavior in morning, i heard john exclaim, "Ants -- they're everywhere."

Poptarts. Think he was reaching for poptart to stifle hungry, incessantly begging children. Think when box of fudge-covereds was open, it was discovered that a massive industrious colony of tiny pests had invaded. So the next 10 minutes, the sanctity my Saturday morning quiet was spent dumping, purging -- gasping at how those tiny things got into everything over night. Every open box of anything out. Oreos, Cheez-its, etc. all gone. bummer. All my crackers gone, and i love my crackers.

i know those creatures weren't there the night before. Or at least not a billion of them.

How did this happen? Now i did spot a few Friday afternoon on window sill and zapped them with RAID. Ok -- it was RAID for "flying insects" -- but it did seem to do the job. i really hadn't thought much more about them or that there was a problem. oh dear.

infestations... really guess not much my fault. Maybe if i had been more disciplined about getting rid of the wee beasts at their first salvo on Friday?

Yes, discipline. If there is anything i love more than infestations, it has to be discipline. UGH!

Now i love the result of good discipline -- clean house, trim body, relief from those annoying...."how we can help you get out from debt" phone calls, and not over sleeping on Saturdays. Children dressed out of house and at school on time.

But it always seems so hard for me. Think all those discipline traits were saved for my sister. She who passed her CPA exam -- all four parts, first time -- while working full time at top accounting firm -- not by taking a course, but by reading a book while up at 4 a.m. on treadmill exercising before she went to work.

hmm.. what else? She gained total of 3 pounds for each of her pregnancies. For me add one and times by 10. She was "grazer" years before grazing entered the dieting lexicon. If i see her 3 months before any birthday (husband, child, me) -- she hands me the gift. Ok -- this is really madding -- because i completely forget where i have squirreled the thing away by time birthday rolls around.

Ants and discipline. They really get in my business.

Discipline really.. guess if i was a little more disciplined i could some how make it occasionally to church by 9 o'clock to hear husband preach. Seems that lots of people do it. But it's just that i see him all the time. And Kirk's great too. And it would really require lots of disturbing my 30 minutes of Sunday morning peace that i sooo love........

It is my peace after all, isn't it...........darn it.

Milestone Class, Sunday, August 13 -- year of our Lord -- 2006. (i was so on time, didn't even noticed time we all got started.. just remembered..)

"Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego," Pete said.

hurrah! For even lame biblical scholar that i am, i know that is reference to Old Testament characters. Yeah! Love OT teachings for so clear-cut, no nonsense, yet so applicable. This will be easy to write about.

Ok -- i was fooled. We weren't going to talk about being strong in face of adversity, willing to go to the kiln, and only to be saved by angel or Christ-foreshadowing figure for our trememdous faith. bummer.

i hate it when i have to think while doing these things. that requires discipline. hmmm.

For all those not in attendance, it was quite the large crowd. Everyone very orderly passed around handouts and the discussion began.............

"Are we blessed?" our able teacher for morning asked gathered flock.

The ever timid Ron Lewis jumped right in with.."i am -- because of my wife." Well, he might be timid but he is smart for with admission of Dena's enormous blessing in his life he made her happy, and by doing so first -- he really stole the thunder from any other Mguy.

"Living in America," Steve Speyers.

Laree spoke of the pull we all feel when see others living in very desperately poor situations. "Why have we been so blessed?"

Cindy (Mstone extremely young and gorgeous mother of groom to be this weekend) referred to mission trip to Honduras. Viewing all the unimaginable poverty -- made her realize that being blessed means having choices. How living in the country we do -- we have those choices. Extreme poverty in 3rd world country doesn't allow for many choices in life.

Joe Reitman/Steve came up with the answer of "Jesus."

They got first gold stars for think that was point of blessing discussion. "We are all blessed because we can know Jesus no matter who we are, where we live -- Jesus is the one true Blessing." Pete said. Jesus being right answer again, i guess.

Slavery of Ingrained Habits

was next topic on handout.

Scripture reference: Isaiah 57:20

"But the wicked are like the troubled sea,
When it cannot rest,
Whose waters cast up mire and dirt."

Looking at my bible transcribing class this a.m., i see that at some point in life, i had circled the next verse. Circles are very unusual for me... lots of underlining..but few ink circles in my bible.

"There is no peace, "
Says my God, "for the wicked." Isaiah 57:21.

no peace again. just hate it when that happens.

Love that picture of the water. But guess if one was right in middle of it -- it would be downright terrifying.

Pete asked,"How do we approach and deal with the dirt and mire in our lives?"

Mstones did manage to figure out that the dirt reference was "sin." Kristie added we can, "recognize it." Ron stated, "justify it." Julie added, "Look at others and think -- well, at least i haven't done that."

KT -- reminded all that this dirt, as harmless as it might seem does do one thing that isn't so benign -- results in major separation from God.

Handout then had this thought..."As long as we think we can save ourselves by our own willpower, we will only make the evil in us stronger than ever."

Pete then queried, "What is the common problem with our will and the law?"

"We on our own can't transform the inner person." Think this must have been Joe R. or Steve because you both were on fire yesterday. Mary, "it has to be a continual transformation -- like the sea that is always changing."

Then we get around to point of whole thing, i think. "What is a spiritual discipline?"

"How can i engage in the path in spiritual discipline?" Pete asked all.

Yeah, i'm thinking. How can i? Question should more likely be..Why would i? i mean please?

ok -- i am bad.

Next up on handout, Difficulties in Path to Spiritual Discipline. Difficulties -- see i told you this was going to be hard.

Pete Speak:
a. Pervasive materialism left us without an understanding of ability to reach beyond the physical.
b. We don't know how to explore the depths of the inward life.

"Superficiality is the curse of our age. The doctrine of instant satisfaction is a primary spiritual problem. The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, nor for gifted people, but for deep people." Richard Foster.

i like this thought. Now this i can do... for i am not intelligent, nor gifted. i think i have much more potential to become a deep person, rather than i disciplined one . So come on Pete.. tell us Mstones how we can make this deep/peace/transforming stuff happen right now!

Maybe this will be the point of this Celebration of Discipline stuff. To become transformed deep people, we have to deeply pursue and thirst for all that is good.

These Disciplines are a means of placing ourselves before God to be changed.

i was kind of kidding about all the hating discipline part. For only in the true disciplined pursuit of righteous will we be able to ever glimpse the amazing, overwhelming truth and perfection of the Father. That is indeed worthy of a celebration.

But the Choices. as Cindy said, by virtue where we live we are afforded many different avenues in life.

Guess same is true of our spiritual life as well. We have lots of choices. The choice to be disciplined in our pursuit of Godly living or not so discerning.

Seems i sometimes lean to the not-so-discerning side, because isn't it more fun to test the waters a little. This is where my friends the ants taught me valuable lesson. You see they are really quiet, tiny and harmless as individuals, but you let a few in here -- a few in there. Then you go to sleep..........and wake up and there is a full-fledged war going on. They have permeated and infiltrated everything. All that was good (and great to eat) had to be destroyed and thrown out in garbage.

A little sin. All so tiny, yet once massed together takes over all that is good in us before we know it.

Just like a perfectly good box of Cheez-its. Out in the trash. What a waste.

"What a waste." i can only guess, but think the Father must think that about us sometimes. For He and only He can see all that we could be without these infestations of the soul. So here's to learning about celebrating some spiritual disciplines -- which i guess we will be doing for a while?

Great job, Pete!

Prayer Requests and Announcements

A praise from the Cookbook committee that "it" is indeed in the mail to the publishers. Yea! Thanks for all you hard work. Stephanie, Laree, Margaret, Kristie, Shelly and Shelagh. Our Mstone culinary book has 450 recipes. We have ordered 300. Surely they will be flying off the shelves at Cracker Barrel.

Please keep the Craig family in your prayers -- a young man was involved in a bad car accident that has left him with severe head injuries. They are hopeful that he will be able to regain his normal mental capacity.

Praise -- Cindy's son Daniel and future bride Lindsay are getting married this weekend. All our prayers go out for a wonderful day and that God will always remain at the center of their marriage.

We pray for the Angel family as they are looking for buyer for their house. Please be in prayer for daughter Savannah and the procedure needed to repair small opening in heart. btw -- word on street is that Larry will be in Mad Labor Day weekend. Wonder if that has anything to do with UGA opener?

ok -- Larry, my reluctant inclusion of picture of a bulldog in this thing is true testament of our love for you. Of course, it is a rather small and weakish pup -- which is also true statement of how i think of them. Kidding. Kind of.

He (the dog) seems tad frightened. Must be Western Kentucky. Yes, if i were Mark Richt most of my nightmares would revolve around playing the mighty "Hill Toppers." Good Grief -- Larry -- what is a hill topper? or "Topper" for short?

Don't even know who the Gators are playing? Must look........

Now this guy is worthy opponent. A dang golden eagle. Massive intensive game film review by me has just learned he feeds on small animals..turtles, snakes, skunks and helpless bullpups left unawares on blue blankets in middle of backyard by hapless coaches...oops, i mean owners.

Southern Miss. hope my gators are up to it. Just glad they don't have to face the "toppers."

oh dear... Must end all this silliness.

Epilogue

Yes, discipline might be worth trying by me on the occasional Sunday morning. Miles household Quote of the Day yesterday.

After 9 o'clock service a very nice woman approached Nancy (my dear mother-in-law) and said, "I so enjoyed your husband's message." her husband?

Discounting any weird incest inference -- Nancy and Johnny. Mad's own Demi and Ashton. very edgy.

john's reply..."what must that lady think of me?"

ok -- that is sad. Poor women thinks john is married to Mrs. John Miles, Sr. Maybe, Mrs. john miles, jr. ought to show her face at 9 a.m. little more.

but i move so slow on Sunday mornings.

dreadfully slow really.

God Bless,
Good Week and oh my goodness..

these things can end up terribly long if:

a. rainy Monday morning, and
b. no desire to bike or run in rain, and
c. no real time to make to Athens for swim.. and
d. no other real choice except to.. .. write away for hours or clean house for hours?

hmmmmm.. now really what's a very disciplined Mgal like me to do?