This morning is an exceptionally wonderful blessing. After several days of recurring storms and rain, it looks like today is going to be weather perfect. It is starting out sunny, yet cool. I'm sure it is going to warm up rapidly, so I don't want to wait too late to get the doggies out for walks. The past three days I have been taking walks under threatening skies and between storms. Under those circumstances, I don't dare travel too far from our house. When the sprinkles start, I want to get home, but fast. Thankfully, we've only encountered being lightly spattered with raindrops, thus far.
I have managed to get somewhat overwhelmed over the past week with Easter looming and all. Just like my mom and sisters, I want Easter to be special and memorable for everyone in our family, especially the kids. Granted, most of them are either in their thirties or getting close to the big three-oh, we still like to see their faces light up with special Easter goodies and Easter activities. I think it is all getting ready to change. We apparently can't keep them "little children" forever. Yes, I made my adult children baskets, but no, for the first time, I didn't hide them and make them find them. And,no, we did not conduct our annual Easter Egg Hunt with plastic eggs filled with money. I didn't even color any eggs, actually, I haven't done that for years, for that matter. Guess it's time to put all that stuff aside until grandchildren come along. Dustin even reminded me that peeps don't fit into his low-carb diet and Christina didn't even ask about her Easter Basket. It was merely an "oh by the way, don't forget your basket" reminder when she was heading out. Yep, I guess they're finally growing up. Time to accept it. They grew up going to church on Easter Sunday, as with most Sundays, hopefully, they'll be doing that in the years ahead.
Making holidays and birthdays special for children is one of my favorite things. I know I get that from my mom, thanks Mom. Speaking of moms, guess what's in less than two weeks?
Carrie Underwood has a wonderful song for her mother called Mama's Song. She made the video after her recent wedding to her Canadian Professional Hockey player. It's a wonderful song telling her mom that her groom and future husband is just what she has always prayed for......that he is good. I've thought about the song and her message to her mom and wondered if she knows the real, true meaning behind that sentiment. I learned from personal experience and from a past Bible Study called Am I Beautiful? by Angela Thompson, that human husbands (or wives, for that matter) are by nature, sinful. Even though we may want to do what's right, we sometimes(more like often) fail. We shouldn't count on our newly married(or 30-40 year married) husband or wife to be perfect. Only Jesus is perfect and the perfect marriage will only and always remain the one between Jesus and his church. Hey,that's us! We are the church, we human Christians. And Jesus is our ever faithful, always present spouse. God is Good, all the time.
Weddings, you can't turn on the TV today without being overwhelmed by the upcoming Royal Wedding. I'm more concerned about what is going on in the south with the terrible devastation caused by the tornadoes there.
I also finished my Christmas book about Mark Krebs and his remarkable journey to becoming and being a Kentucky Wildcat. His mother's devastating diagnosis for cancer, during his sophomore year of high school, made the dream of playing for UK even more unlikely, but through his family, his faith and his sheer determination, he made his dream come true. He has written a wonderful book of inspiration for anyone who thinks a dream is unattainable. Terri Krebs fought the odds stacked against her and after being told she had nine months to live, lived an amazing nine years. God is Good.
I'm enjoying the last of the fragrance of lilacs in my house. I knew they were only going to be here a short time, so I took them in the house and appreciated their appearance as well as their sweet aroma each and every day. They are another one of my favorite things. I hope you are enjoying your favorite things in life today and everyday. It's best to enjoy them now, while you can, they may not be around for tomorrow. Have a great day, luv, Susan
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Thursday, April 14, 2011
WAITING
It can be really fun living out in the country. This morning I was awakened to the dogs barking because they saw a big turkey out in the side yard. It was a big, fat one, so I yelled for Mark to come up and take a look. Just moments later, he pointed out about six deer walking up the hill towards our neighbor's house, the dogs ,thankfully, did not see them. Later Mark mentioned seeing an Oriole out back. I've tried year after year to attract them to an Oriole feeder, no success at that yet. But I have had success with my bluebirds over the years.
Today's Upperroom takes us to the book of Lamentations in the Old Testament. I obviously don't go there often, as I actually had to go to the front to see where it was. I thought somewhere after Psalms, well, it's right after Jeremiah. In fact, they think that the prophet wrote it as a compilation of funeral songs for Jerusalem after it's destruction. I don't know a lot about that, but I did flip over to it and was surprised to see the day's reading from Lamentations 3:22-26 underlined. Then I started reading it and it all came back......I love these verses! I live my life by these verses! It reads: "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself," The Lord is my portion, therefore I will wait for him." The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord."
Yes, as a procrastinator, this is perfect for me. We are to wait patiently, quietly for the Lord, I can do that. My hobbies include quilting and birdwatching, so yes, I have a lot of patience. We aren't, however, just supposed to sit around twiddling our thumbs, we are never to tire of doing good and serving others, that's in there as well. I also like the idea of having our new portion of God's blessings every morning. That theme is repeated throughout the Bible. And, actually waiting for the next morning to start each new day fresh with God's newest blessings isn't ever that long of a wait. I think morning rolls around every 24 hours or so.
I am currently waiting for the bluebirds to find their new birdbath. They found their house again this year, so hopefully, they'll spot it sooner or later. Watching bluebirds bathe is almost as fun as watching them leave their box for the first time. Really, that's my idea of fun.
It was a big coincidence for me to see what was in the Lexington paper this morning. Yesterday while walking with the dogs around the perimeter of the yard, I actually found, totally unexpectedly, a couple good sized morels. These are the wild mushrooms throughout our area. I remember hunting them in Illinois when I was little. My Aunt Jean used to fry them up afterwards and we'd dip them in ketchup. I was successful a couple times hunting them in the woods next to our house in Henderson. Dustin even got pretty good spotting them. I've looked a couple times here in the spring, but to no avail. So, it was quite a surprise to stumble on a couple like that. I looked for more, but found none. I actually think the deer eat them before I can find them. But, I did fry up the two I had and had a little bit of nostalgia enjoying them. If you don't know anything about these mushrooms, don't even think about eating anything like that. They're pictured in today's Lexington herald. Eating other wild mushrooms could be deadly.
Well, I will continue my waiting today. Waiting for the bluebirds, waiting for the rinse cycle, waiting for the mail, waiting for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and then, Easter. I hope you're waiting for good things in your life as well. Stay safe, luv, Susan
Today's Upperroom takes us to the book of Lamentations in the Old Testament. I obviously don't go there often, as I actually had to go to the front to see where it was. I thought somewhere after Psalms, well, it's right after Jeremiah. In fact, they think that the prophet wrote it as a compilation of funeral songs for Jerusalem after it's destruction. I don't know a lot about that, but I did flip over to it and was surprised to see the day's reading from Lamentations 3:22-26 underlined. Then I started reading it and it all came back......I love these verses! I live my life by these verses! It reads: "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself," The Lord is my portion, therefore I will wait for him." The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord."
Yes, as a procrastinator, this is perfect for me. We are to wait patiently, quietly for the Lord, I can do that. My hobbies include quilting and birdwatching, so yes, I have a lot of patience. We aren't, however, just supposed to sit around twiddling our thumbs, we are never to tire of doing good and serving others, that's in there as well. I also like the idea of having our new portion of God's blessings every morning. That theme is repeated throughout the Bible. And, actually waiting for the next morning to start each new day fresh with God's newest blessings isn't ever that long of a wait. I think morning rolls around every 24 hours or so.
I am currently waiting for the bluebirds to find their new birdbath. They found their house again this year, so hopefully, they'll spot it sooner or later. Watching bluebirds bathe is almost as fun as watching them leave their box for the first time. Really, that's my idea of fun.
It was a big coincidence for me to see what was in the Lexington paper this morning. Yesterday while walking with the dogs around the perimeter of the yard, I actually found, totally unexpectedly, a couple good sized morels. These are the wild mushrooms throughout our area. I remember hunting them in Illinois when I was little. My Aunt Jean used to fry them up afterwards and we'd dip them in ketchup. I was successful a couple times hunting them in the woods next to our house in Henderson. Dustin even got pretty good spotting them. I've looked a couple times here in the spring, but to no avail. So, it was quite a surprise to stumble on a couple like that. I looked for more, but found none. I actually think the deer eat them before I can find them. But, I did fry up the two I had and had a little bit of nostalgia enjoying them. If you don't know anything about these mushrooms, don't even think about eating anything like that. They're pictured in today's Lexington herald. Eating other wild mushrooms could be deadly.
Well, I will continue my waiting today. Waiting for the bluebirds, waiting for the rinse cycle, waiting for the mail, waiting for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and then, Easter. I hope you're waiting for good things in your life as well. Stay safe, luv, Susan
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
GOOD NEWS !!!!
They say April showers bring May flowers. The problem here is that most of my flowers; tulips and daffodils, have already bloomed. My lilacs look rather puny and I don't know if my hydrangea shrubs are even going to bud new leaves. Guess these April showers will just have to float me on down to Georgetown to shop for some new flowers. At this point, a boat may be the vehicle of choice. Due to falling rain, we have our little river running down the hill and under the culvert in the road to the horse pasture across the street. It was amusing to watch the horses navigate the ever widening stream of fast moving rapids across the way. As they pooled their collective energies, after seeing the dogs race down our hill, they managed to create quite the stampede in the mud and puddles. This triggered a similar stampede of little white fuzzies parallel to the equine version. I was a little concerned as I watched one dog after another splash their way across our little river. I wondered if they might be small enough to be swept into the culvert and under the street. But, no, they just kept right on going til they got to the end of the fence. Coming back was another story, however.
The two bigger dogs, Pudge and Taffy, didn't have any trouble coming back across the span of raging rain water. The smaller two, Riff and Roy were no longer running on adrenaline and they paused to notice this water that practically had engulfed them just moments earlier as they splashed courageously through after the horses, now seemed to be an impassable barricade. Because I was heading out the gate to get the paper in the driveway, I felt it necessary to keep an eye on how these two little yippers would make it back to the high part of the yard. Amazingly, Riff decided to simply use his very bouncy back legs to hurtle himself up onto the "now much higher than before" rock wall that he used to get over months ago before Mark made our fence a secure perimeter around our yard. Before I knew it he was on the outside with me, and we scurried back through the gate together. That left even littler, Roy on the other side of the river. He was eying the rock wall as well, but I wasn't going to have him miss and fall into the churning water as it entered the culvert, so I guided him to the narrowest part and he was able to leap over clearly.
What an experience just getting the morning paper.
I might add that Pepper, being the smallest, never did go over the river. Also, the horse stampede ended just beyond that part of their pasture that is just past the dogs' fence. I'm glad that they were amused and entertained by the furry frightful four.
It was wonderful to see that our University of Kentucky Lady Wildcat, Victoria Dunlap was taken by the WNBA Washington franchise. Kentucky has a good contigent up there with Kevin Grevey in the area and, of course, John Wall. I read that possibly John Pelphrey was up for a coaching job in Miami, haven't heard any more about that. I did enjoy seeing the special prior to the NCAA final four that told of the story of the special bond between the Florida Gator's head coach, Billy Donovon and his former assistant coaches. Over a four year period, they each lost children through their wives miscarrying late in pregnancy or the infant dying soon after birth. It was a heart wrenching story, yet out of it, these families have been able to reach out, not only to each other, but to many others in similar circumstances. It also solidified the bond between these men and their families forever. It would be nice for John Pelphrey to land a job in Florida once again. If that doesn't work, I'm sure something would come up in Central Kentucky. He is one of our Unforgettables after all and I know God is watching over him and his family.
It is now twelve days before Easter. I am trying to prepare for this special time, as we grow ever closer to marking the days when mankind was at it's lowest low of all times, then experienced the highest of highs. This remarkable story can be read in all four of the gospels in the New Testament; Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Two of the twelve disciples, that were with Jesus during his ministry, penned their stories. Matthew was the tax collector and John was the disciple that "Jesus loved". Mark was an associate of the Apostle Paul, who is responsible for most of the letters in the New Testament. It is widely believed that it is Peter's account of his time with Jesus and the other eleven disciples. The other gospel was written by Luke, a doctor who also traveled with and was an associate of Paul's. It is the most historically accurate of all the gospel accounts and is even continued in the book of Acts, also written by Luke, which records the Acts of the Apostles of Jesus and the beginning of His church. I highly recommend one or all of these books that are full of the good news of Jesus Christ.
It is time for me to get something other than blogging accomplished. I see the horses are again waiting across the street and it is time for the doggies to go back out for their business. Have a great day and stay dry, luv, Susan
The two bigger dogs, Pudge and Taffy, didn't have any trouble coming back across the span of raging rain water. The smaller two, Riff and Roy were no longer running on adrenaline and they paused to notice this water that practically had engulfed them just moments earlier as they splashed courageously through after the horses, now seemed to be an impassable barricade. Because I was heading out the gate to get the paper in the driveway, I felt it necessary to keep an eye on how these two little yippers would make it back to the high part of the yard. Amazingly, Riff decided to simply use his very bouncy back legs to hurtle himself up onto the "now much higher than before" rock wall that he used to get over months ago before Mark made our fence a secure perimeter around our yard. Before I knew it he was on the outside with me, and we scurried back through the gate together. That left even littler, Roy on the other side of the river. He was eying the rock wall as well, but I wasn't going to have him miss and fall into the churning water as it entered the culvert, so I guided him to the narrowest part and he was able to leap over clearly.
What an experience just getting the morning paper.
I might add that Pepper, being the smallest, never did go over the river. Also, the horse stampede ended just beyond that part of their pasture that is just past the dogs' fence. I'm glad that they were amused and entertained by the furry frightful four.
It was wonderful to see that our University of Kentucky Lady Wildcat, Victoria Dunlap was taken by the WNBA Washington franchise. Kentucky has a good contigent up there with Kevin Grevey in the area and, of course, John Wall. I read that possibly John Pelphrey was up for a coaching job in Miami, haven't heard any more about that. I did enjoy seeing the special prior to the NCAA final four that told of the story of the special bond between the Florida Gator's head coach, Billy Donovon and his former assistant coaches. Over a four year period, they each lost children through their wives miscarrying late in pregnancy or the infant dying soon after birth. It was a heart wrenching story, yet out of it, these families have been able to reach out, not only to each other, but to many others in similar circumstances. It also solidified the bond between these men and their families forever. It would be nice for John Pelphrey to land a job in Florida once again. If that doesn't work, I'm sure something would come up in Central Kentucky. He is one of our Unforgettables after all and I know God is watching over him and his family.
It is now twelve days before Easter. I am trying to prepare for this special time, as we grow ever closer to marking the days when mankind was at it's lowest low of all times, then experienced the highest of highs. This remarkable story can be read in all four of the gospels in the New Testament; Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Two of the twelve disciples, that were with Jesus during his ministry, penned their stories. Matthew was the tax collector and John was the disciple that "Jesus loved". Mark was an associate of the Apostle Paul, who is responsible for most of the letters in the New Testament. It is widely believed that it is Peter's account of his time with Jesus and the other eleven disciples. The other gospel was written by Luke, a doctor who also traveled with and was an associate of Paul's. It is the most historically accurate of all the gospel accounts and is even continued in the book of Acts, also written by Luke, which records the Acts of the Apostles of Jesus and the beginning of His church. I highly recommend one or all of these books that are full of the good news of Jesus Christ.
It is time for me to get something other than blogging accomplished. I see the horses are again waiting across the street and it is time for the doggies to go back out for their business. Have a great day and stay dry, luv, Susan
Thursday, April 7, 2011
All Things Working for Good
The sun is shining brightly in Central Kentucky. It looks like Spring is here to stay, finally. We had a wonderful March Madness run, the Big Blue Nation is so very appreciative of our team of Wildcats for taking us back to the Final Four. We really missed going for twelve years. You just can't imagine all the things being said on the many UK basketball blogs out there. It is crazy to think that we are back to where we like to be and the Louisville followers, even with our former coach, still are unable to get things together at tourney time.
Spring means getting dogs ready for flea season. Having five dogs means a real financial commitment. Between flea treatment and heartworm meds, it can actually cost around a hundred dollars a month to protect these five furry little yappers. And speaking of such, the largest yapper is still out in the yard doing just that. We must have had a whole herd of deer grazing in the yard last night for Pudge to still be investigating all the wonderful smells out there.
Tonight I will finally get to see my world travelling daughter. The kids often make it over for supper once a week, it'll be my first chance to see Christina since her trip to Vietnam. It'll be good to get caught up on how things are going with her new house as well, it's a fixer upper for sure. Dustin is also moving into his new home.....my babies are definitely growing up.
Bible study last night again took us to Romans. Paul sure did pack the letter to the church in Rome with all a Christian needs to live a Christ led life. Romans 8:28 is often targeted as a perfect mantra for us to live our lives as those who truly believe. It is so positive, encouraging and uplifting yet hinges on that one crucial component of being a Christian......making the choice to love God and believe in Him. It states: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Yes, as long as we love God and accept his call of living our lives for Him, all things in our lives will be used for good. I can deal with that. Even though bad will happen, God will use it for good eventually.
Well, I've got a busy day planned and Pudge is still out there making a racket, so I best be getting started. Have a blessed day, luv, Susan
Spring means getting dogs ready for flea season. Having five dogs means a real financial commitment. Between flea treatment and heartworm meds, it can actually cost around a hundred dollars a month to protect these five furry little yappers. And speaking of such, the largest yapper is still out in the yard doing just that. We must have had a whole herd of deer grazing in the yard last night for Pudge to still be investigating all the wonderful smells out there.
Tonight I will finally get to see my world travelling daughter. The kids often make it over for supper once a week, it'll be my first chance to see Christina since her trip to Vietnam. It'll be good to get caught up on how things are going with her new house as well, it's a fixer upper for sure. Dustin is also moving into his new home.....my babies are definitely growing up.
Bible study last night again took us to Romans. Paul sure did pack the letter to the church in Rome with all a Christian needs to live a Christ led life. Romans 8:28 is often targeted as a perfect mantra for us to live our lives as those who truly believe. It is so positive, encouraging and uplifting yet hinges on that one crucial component of being a Christian......making the choice to love God and believe in Him. It states: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Yes, as long as we love God and accept his call of living our lives for Him, all things in our lives will be used for good. I can deal with that. Even though bad will happen, God will use it for good eventually.
Well, I've got a busy day planned and Pudge is still out there making a racket, so I best be getting started. Have a blessed day, luv, Susan
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Come Back , Spring
March, in like a lion, out like a lamb? Hardly, I don't remember exactly what the first of the month was like, but you can describe these last days as an arctic seal, wet and cold. The amazing early Spring we were experiencing became suddenly and unexpectedly hijacked just when it was supposed to really be nice. Oh well, guess you could say the weather outside is good for something indoors, say like watching basketball?!!
So, yes, I have been watching some of the NCAA Tournament. We actually listened to the Princeton/Kentucky game on the radio as we drove home from Florida. I could only imagine the final shot made by Brandon Knight, it was an amazing thing for him to be capable of such basketball heroics, after such a shooting drought the rest of the game. The West Virgina game was such sweet revenge after the Mountaineers ended UK's last season, what seemed to be prematurely. As for the Ohio State game and the North Carolina game, let's just say, I no longer have any fingernails. Go Big Blue!!!
How does your bracket look? I had Kentucky and UConn meeting in the semi-final on our side of the bracket. I also had UK playing BYU in the final. I'm afraid Florida did not allow that to happen. It was fun watching Jimmer make his thirty some points each game.
After a twelve year drought of not going to the final four, who would have thunk that thirteen would be the magic number for returning. It brings back wonderful memories and feelings of being part of the last week of the college basketball season again. After the nineties, we pretty much felt like we were entitled to a spot of the last four standing. Guess we learned that nothing is a given, even for Kentucky.
I hate to hear so much hype about John Calipari and his vacated wins at UMass and Memphis. I don't think a college coach can be aware of everything that goes on in a student athletes life any more than a parent can be aware of everything that goes on in their college aged child's life. No matter how hard you try to be on top of things, sometimes temptations creep in and the best coaching/parenting skills are nullified by bad choices made by young charges. We can only hope and pray that the young men who wear the Kentucky name on their jerseys are cognizant that their every action is being carefully scrutinized.
God does work in mysterious ways. I was saddened, earlier in the year, when Enes Kanter was not allowed to play on Kentucky's team. He became a student assistant coach instead. Good ole Josh Harrelson soaked up as much of the young Turks' basketball skills and athletic moves as he possibly could during their time together. Between an unbelievable attitude change, amazingly hard work and a super talented example in Enes, Josh has become a real force to be reckoned with. I like the reason that Brandon Knight gave when reporters asked his opinion of Harrelson's transformation. He said, "Maybe it was God". I think he was right.
Today they are talking about opening day of the baseball season. It always brings back memories of Bill Keightly, Mr. Wildcat, for me. He passed away after UK's basketball season ended, maybe three years ago, during his annual trip to see his beloved Cincinnati Reds play their opening game. He has been and will continue to be terribly missed by the entire Big Blue Nation. I hope Mr. Wildcat is enjoying all of this hoopla from above.
And tomorrow is April Fool's Day. That means that today is also the anniversary of another dark day in UK Basketball history. Seems we suffered a loss to some team named Duke on March 31, 1992. Has it really been that many years ago?
Well, I'm gonna try to get my priorities in order and remember that we are still in the Lenten season. The weeks ahead should remind us of what our wonderful savior did for us all. Enjoy this special season and whatever sport God has placed on your heart to enjoy as well. Go Big Blue!!! luv, Susan
So, yes, I have been watching some of the NCAA Tournament. We actually listened to the Princeton/Kentucky game on the radio as we drove home from Florida. I could only imagine the final shot made by Brandon Knight, it was an amazing thing for him to be capable of such basketball heroics, after such a shooting drought the rest of the game. The West Virgina game was such sweet revenge after the Mountaineers ended UK's last season, what seemed to be prematurely. As for the Ohio State game and the North Carolina game, let's just say, I no longer have any fingernails. Go Big Blue!!!
How does your bracket look? I had Kentucky and UConn meeting in the semi-final on our side of the bracket. I also had UK playing BYU in the final. I'm afraid Florida did not allow that to happen. It was fun watching Jimmer make his thirty some points each game.
After a twelve year drought of not going to the final four, who would have thunk that thirteen would be the magic number for returning. It brings back wonderful memories and feelings of being part of the last week of the college basketball season again. After the nineties, we pretty much felt like we were entitled to a spot of the last four standing. Guess we learned that nothing is a given, even for Kentucky.
I hate to hear so much hype about John Calipari and his vacated wins at UMass and Memphis. I don't think a college coach can be aware of everything that goes on in a student athletes life any more than a parent can be aware of everything that goes on in their college aged child's life. No matter how hard you try to be on top of things, sometimes temptations creep in and the best coaching/parenting skills are nullified by bad choices made by young charges. We can only hope and pray that the young men who wear the Kentucky name on their jerseys are cognizant that their every action is being carefully scrutinized.
God does work in mysterious ways. I was saddened, earlier in the year, when Enes Kanter was not allowed to play on Kentucky's team. He became a student assistant coach instead. Good ole Josh Harrelson soaked up as much of the young Turks' basketball skills and athletic moves as he possibly could during their time together. Between an unbelievable attitude change, amazingly hard work and a super talented example in Enes, Josh has become a real force to be reckoned with. I like the reason that Brandon Knight gave when reporters asked his opinion of Harrelson's transformation. He said, "Maybe it was God". I think he was right.
Today they are talking about opening day of the baseball season. It always brings back memories of Bill Keightly, Mr. Wildcat, for me. He passed away after UK's basketball season ended, maybe three years ago, during his annual trip to see his beloved Cincinnati Reds play their opening game. He has been and will continue to be terribly missed by the entire Big Blue Nation. I hope Mr. Wildcat is enjoying all of this hoopla from above.
And tomorrow is April Fool's Day. That means that today is also the anniversary of another dark day in UK Basketball history. Seems we suffered a loss to some team named Duke on March 31, 1992. Has it really been that many years ago?
Well, I'm gonna try to get my priorities in order and remember that we are still in the Lenten season. The weeks ahead should remind us of what our wonderful savior did for us all. Enjoy this special season and whatever sport God has placed on your heart to enjoy as well. Go Big Blue!!! luv, Susan
Thursday, March 24, 2011
WE CAN ALL BE NEW AGAIN
I guess you could say that I took a break from blogging. Seems I was just needing to get caught up on some things, I guess. Hopefully, I'll be able to be more timely with my posts from here on out.
It is officially Spring. We did get the early Spring we were promised by the groundhog. At least we did in Central Kentucky. I'm afraid we are currently experiencing a cool down after some very summer like days this week. I'm hoping my blooming daffodils and budding tulips can weather this dip in temps. Because we were in Florida visiting Mark's folks, we were able to experience the full spectrum of Spring's magnificence. Going through Georgia and Florida this time of year is like getting hit with a full palette of God's brightest colors. It is just so amazing to me to see so many blooming trees, shrubs and vines traveling through these areas. And so many of them are just growing wild, especially those Wisteria vines covered with clusters of purple blossoms. It just gave me a preview of what is to come here in Kentucky, I can hardly wait. Spring has officially become my new favorite season over Summer.
We had a wonderful time in Florida. We always love seeing family. Good to see our family members in the Sunshine State doing super. We also celebrated our 33rd wedding anniversary on St. Patrick's Day. I can say, though, that it was the only St. Patty's Day I can remember when I hadn't wore something green. That's because Kentucky was playing basketball and I know my priorities. We've done so well these last weeks of the regular season and into tournament play. It was great seeing UK again be crowned at the end of the SEC tournament. Now, hopefully, we'll continue to do well against the overall number one seed in the nation after struggling by Princeton and triumphing over the Mountaineers.
I was amused to read that the freshman point guard of OSU was the player who was photographed with Bruce Pearl at a cookout at his home. Evidentally, that, or the cover-up of that, was what ended Bruce's career at UT. I really hate to see him go. Wondering if Arkansas will be at all interested in taking a giant risk on him to get their attendance at Bud Walton Arena up. I sure hated to see John Pelphrey lose his job at Arkansas, coaches should know by now not to let themselves be photographed anywhere with recruits. I believe that God will open the right door up for our Unforgettable John Pelphrey.
My daughter has been in Vietnam the past two weeks and is due back this weekend. It will be so good to have her home. I know she's really enjoyed being there with the International YMCA helping with classrooms and schools in the rural areas of the country. They've also learned as much as they could about the country, so they can share their experiences with the middle and high school students they interact with throughout the year.
Because of the Lenten season, I had hoped to be more disciplined with certain things on a daily basis. I have failed miserably, but am still hoping to do better. Not only do I continue to listen to my favorite song, New Again, by Brad Paisley, but I'll also get out my cd of Jesus Christ Superstar, which always helps me prepare my heart for this season preceding Good Friday and Easter Sunday. I hope you're preparing your heart, as well, to celebrate the most awesome day ever. We have been studying Lent on Sunday mornings and God's Grace on Wednesday nights. Amazingly, both studies have taken us to the same spot in the Bible, Romans 5. It is a very powerful chapter in the Bible that reminds us how we were made sinners because of the actions of Adam in the garden of Eden, yet, made righteous because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, which removed our transgressions and reconciled us to God. When we can grasp the awesomeness of this dual reality, we can begin to understand how much our God loves all of us. Romans 5:8 states, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for US."
I hope you're enjoying Spring and all the newness that comes with it. Take care and be safe, luv, Susan ps I may not have worn green on St. Patty's Day, but all five dogs had their green shamrock scarves on to help celebrate the day.
It is officially Spring. We did get the early Spring we were promised by the groundhog. At least we did in Central Kentucky. I'm afraid we are currently experiencing a cool down after some very summer like days this week. I'm hoping my blooming daffodils and budding tulips can weather this dip in temps. Because we were in Florida visiting Mark's folks, we were able to experience the full spectrum of Spring's magnificence. Going through Georgia and Florida this time of year is like getting hit with a full palette of God's brightest colors. It is just so amazing to me to see so many blooming trees, shrubs and vines traveling through these areas. And so many of them are just growing wild, especially those Wisteria vines covered with clusters of purple blossoms. It just gave me a preview of what is to come here in Kentucky, I can hardly wait. Spring has officially become my new favorite season over Summer.
We had a wonderful time in Florida. We always love seeing family. Good to see our family members in the Sunshine State doing super. We also celebrated our 33rd wedding anniversary on St. Patrick's Day. I can say, though, that it was the only St. Patty's Day I can remember when I hadn't wore something green. That's because Kentucky was playing basketball and I know my priorities. We've done so well these last weeks of the regular season and into tournament play. It was great seeing UK again be crowned at the end of the SEC tournament. Now, hopefully, we'll continue to do well against the overall number one seed in the nation after struggling by Princeton and triumphing over the Mountaineers.
I was amused to read that the freshman point guard of OSU was the player who was photographed with Bruce Pearl at a cookout at his home. Evidentally, that, or the cover-up of that, was what ended Bruce's career at UT. I really hate to see him go. Wondering if Arkansas will be at all interested in taking a giant risk on him to get their attendance at Bud Walton Arena up. I sure hated to see John Pelphrey lose his job at Arkansas, coaches should know by now not to let themselves be photographed anywhere with recruits. I believe that God will open the right door up for our Unforgettable John Pelphrey.
My daughter has been in Vietnam the past two weeks and is due back this weekend. It will be so good to have her home. I know she's really enjoyed being there with the International YMCA helping with classrooms and schools in the rural areas of the country. They've also learned as much as they could about the country, so they can share their experiences with the middle and high school students they interact with throughout the year.
Because of the Lenten season, I had hoped to be more disciplined with certain things on a daily basis. I have failed miserably, but am still hoping to do better. Not only do I continue to listen to my favorite song, New Again, by Brad Paisley, but I'll also get out my cd of Jesus Christ Superstar, which always helps me prepare my heart for this season preceding Good Friday and Easter Sunday. I hope you're preparing your heart, as well, to celebrate the most awesome day ever. We have been studying Lent on Sunday mornings and God's Grace on Wednesday nights. Amazingly, both studies have taken us to the same spot in the Bible, Romans 5. It is a very powerful chapter in the Bible that reminds us how we were made sinners because of the actions of Adam in the garden of Eden, yet, made righteous because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, which removed our transgressions and reconciled us to God. When we can grasp the awesomeness of this dual reality, we can begin to understand how much our God loves all of us. Romans 5:8 states, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for US."
I hope you're enjoying Spring and all the newness that comes with it. Take care and be safe, luv, Susan ps I may not have worn green on St. Patty's Day, but all five dogs had their green shamrock scarves on to help celebrate the day.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Wildcats Continue To Spread Happiness Throughout The SEC
I thought the saying was April showers bring May flowers, not February showers bring March flowers. It's rather mind boggling for me to see all my daffodils and tulips I planted two years ago already coming up in the garden. I am so very thankful for the early Spring, it has been wonderful, but, this is just weird. I've already seen crocus blooming their yellow, white and purple all around Central Kentucky. I am looking forward to all the colors of Spring, after a definitely white winter. I can expect yellow and red in the coming weeks, if not days. I'm just hoping the temps stay mild so as not to reek havoc on the emerging buds.
I was not a happy camper last night. I read the articles about how we have won ten straight games over Arkansas. This should be our second SEC road win. Well, as usual, the home team got really excited about this game. It seems we just become the "championship game" for these other SEC teams. It was an exciting game. I was really impressed with that Rot guy and Arkansas's ability to hit key three point shots when they really needed them. It was good to see Bud Walton Arena practically filled after the razorbacks have been dubbed recently as "forty minutes of ho-hum". Leave it to Kentucky to go in there and give them something to cheer about.
I was disappointed to see the Wildcats let another SEC road game slip away, but after some reflection, I understand the importance of this game to the career and well-being of one former Unforgettable, John Pelphrey. It seems many in Fayetteville have dubbed him as Coach Fail-phrey. He has been on the hot seat and really, really needed a win in a bad way. Well, the basketball gods have smiled on our John. Hopefully, he will be around another year for us to dominate his little hogs, yet again, in Rupp Arena.
I have been down with a miserable cold these past several days. Hoping to bounce back today. It was great to help my Dad celebrate his 85th birthday on Sunday, even though most of my family thought I should have kept my germy self at home.
Mark is still working on my Christmas present, a fence that will keep my five dogs in the yard and out of trouble. It will be nice when it's finished.
I hope you also are enjoying early Spring weather. I'm gonna go find my umbrella and my raincoat, so I can get out there and get my day started. Stay dry and safe, luv, Susan
I was not a happy camper last night. I read the articles about how we have won ten straight games over Arkansas. This should be our second SEC road win. Well, as usual, the home team got really excited about this game. It seems we just become the "championship game" for these other SEC teams. It was an exciting game. I was really impressed with that Rot guy and Arkansas's ability to hit key three point shots when they really needed them. It was good to see Bud Walton Arena practically filled after the razorbacks have been dubbed recently as "forty minutes of ho-hum". Leave it to Kentucky to go in there and give them something to cheer about.
I was disappointed to see the Wildcats let another SEC road game slip away, but after some reflection, I understand the importance of this game to the career and well-being of one former Unforgettable, John Pelphrey. It seems many in Fayetteville have dubbed him as Coach Fail-phrey. He has been on the hot seat and really, really needed a win in a bad way. Well, the basketball gods have smiled on our John. Hopefully, he will be around another year for us to dominate his little hogs, yet again, in Rupp Arena.
I have been down with a miserable cold these past several days. Hoping to bounce back today. It was great to help my Dad celebrate his 85th birthday on Sunday, even though most of my family thought I should have kept my germy self at home.
Mark is still working on my Christmas present, a fence that will keep my five dogs in the yard and out of trouble. It will be nice when it's finished.
I hope you also are enjoying early Spring weather. I'm gonna go find my umbrella and my raincoat, so I can get out there and get my day started. Stay dry and safe, luv, Susan
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