The Spore Family

MOVING...

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 14:31:00 +0000

Please be patient and check back often!

Word-Filled Wednesday #4

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 10:15:00 +0000

Two Shall Become One Tuesday's

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 08:13:00 +0000

Last week, was a bit rough with my Master classes starting back up for the semester. I wasn't able to do a full post for Two Shall Become One Tuesday's The beginning of this week has also been rough, not to mention stressful....

Monday afternoon, as the ice began pelting the Midwest, my phone rang. "Hello?" {{pause}} "Penny, what do you have going on for the next...oh...four or five hours?" the broken-up voice said on the other end. "Um...why mom?" I immediately and suspiciously responded. Faintly and with a voice full of tears she continued, "Could you take me to the hospital? I'm having severe chest discomfort and my doctor is insisting I go straight to the hospital. I've tried to get a hold of your dad, but he isn't answering his phone." Since the doctor merely suggested she be taken by ambulance, instead of insisting on it, she chose to call me instead (and for those of you that know my mom, that shouldn't surprise you!) I immediately began scurrying around the house throwing a few "can't do without" items into a bag, jumped in the car, and headed to pick her up. By the time I arrived, my dad was back home (he had been gone on church business) and ready to go as well. The nearest facility with a cardiologist on staff was some 56 miles away so we headed out, as quick as the weather would allow. After two and half hours of driving through sleet, freezing rain, a burnt out headlight and a windshield wiper gone crazy, we safely made it to Bartlesville where she was admitted to Jane Phillip's Medical Center.

The recliner beside her hospital bed is where I am writing from now. It's in the middle of the night and she is resting as peaceful as one can being hooked up to a million different machines and lying in a bed covered with plastic. Since being admitted, she has endured over 15 sticks and pokes (her veins were playing hide-and-seek from the Phlebotomist upon arrival), a Nuclear (Thallium) stress test, and a Cardiac Catheterization. I am ecstatic to report that the grass seems a bit greener now that she is on the "recovery" side of things.

What does this have to do with "Two Shall Become One Tuesday's?" If it weren't for my supportive and loving husband who was willing to take care of our boys and everything at home, I would not be able to be by my mother's side now.

Thank you sweets! You are truly THE best! And thank you Jesus for taking care of my mother, my family while I've been gone, and giving me the best husband I wife could ever hope for.

"He stands tall, like a cedar,
strong and deep-rooted,
A rugged mountain of a man,
aromatic with wood and stone.
His words are kisses, his kisses words"
Song of Solomon 5:15-16

Memory Monday #4

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 19:06:00 +0000

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."

Romans 12:12 (NIV)

My family is getting ready to face a difficult time in the months ahead and we could sure use the prayers of those who are willing to do so. Although I know the bible teaches us to be joyful, patient, and faithful in prayer, I have a hard time with the "patient" part. I want answers and I want them now! Sitting still, waiting on the Lord, is not my forte! That is why I picked this week's scripture found in Romans 12:12.

I am also taking this week to review the past three Memory Mondays

Week #1: II Corinthians 5:17

Week #2: Isaiah 40:29

Week #3: Psalms 139:13

Good luck and God bless!

Friday Funnies

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 00:38:00 +0000

You Are An Exclamation Point

You are a bundle of... well, something.
You're often a bundle of joy, passion, or drama.

You're loud, brash, and outgoing. If you think it, you say it. Definitely not the quiet type, you really don't keep a lot to yourself.

You're lively and inspiring. People love to be around your energy. (But they do secretly worry that you'll spill their secrets without even realizing it.)

You excel in: Public speaking

You get along best with: the Dash

What Punctuation Mark Are You?

Thankful Thursday #3

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 02:48:00 +0000

For "Thankful Thursday" this week I am honoring none other than the love of my life, my husband, Mark. He is my knight in shining armor! We went to junior high and high school together, but didn't start dating until April of our Senior year. Looking back, I never dreamed he was the one God was preparing for me. We were and still are complete opposites, oil and water. He was a country boy and I was a city girl; he was quiet and kept to himself and I was loud and boisterous; he was spontaneous and I was a planner; he was smart...VERY smart and I was "average;" he liked to kill animals (hunting) and I wanted to keep them all as pets! Needless to say, our differences were part of the reason I fell in love with him. (Not to mention his teddy bear brown eyes and heart melting smile!)

However, Mark isn't only a remarkable husband, but a top-notch father full of compassion, love, and dedication for our children. He is more patient with our boys than I could ever hope to be. By watching their father, our boys have learned to persevere, take risks, be gentlemen, and respect their elders. I thank God for giving me a man with these qualities and one who respects the gift of life itself.

I love you sweets! Thank you for putting up with me and loving me until the end.

Word-Filled Wednesday #3

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 07:38:00 +0000

“Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to death; don’t stand back and let them die. Don’t try to avoid responsibility by saying you didn’t know about it. For God knows all hearts and he sees you. He keeps watch over your souls, and he knows you know..."
Proverbs 24: 11-12 –

Lord, please with those mother's who are facing an unwanted pregnancy for this can be a confusing and frightening time. Comfort them, guide them, and surround them with your unconditional love.
Let them feel your presence and know they are not alone.
In Jesus Name.

Two Shall Become One Tuesday's

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 08:35:00 +0000

I am sorry for my late posting. I'll be back tomorrow. However, I wanted to get the results of the poll up I took last week so you could have a chance to look at the results and ponder over them.

Marriage Poll

Do you still treat your spouse as good as when you were first married? (Going out of your way, remember the little things, dress to impress?

RESULTS:

Sometimes 50%

No 28%

Yes 11%

Are you kidding??? 11%

I'd appreciate your thoughts on this. Please leave a comment and let me know your feelings. Thanks!

Memory Monday #3

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 04:15:00 +0000

I chose this verse in Psalms to commence my week long celebration of LIFE and the right to life!

Week #3 verse:

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made..." Psalms 139:13

Amazing, simply amazing! I am made by God! His hands created me. I've been touched by the Master's hands {{catching breath}} THAT in itself is the most exciting ever! He knew me and was watching over me even before anyone else knew I existed. I'm feeling especially special right now...like warm and fuzzy all over! And guess what? YOU were made by him too! A pretty awesome feeling to know that we are all amazing works of art in God's own gallery, don't you think?

Yet, sadly enough, there are many...many...people who are literally terminating God's handiwork. Why you ask?

1% of all abortions occur because of rape or incest
6% of abortions occur because of potential health problems regarding either the mother or child
93% of all abortions occur for social reasons (i.e. the child is unwanted or inconvenient).

{{{Shaking head in disgust!}}} INCONVENIENT; not suited to your comfort, purpose or needs? It "should" be inconvenient not to have a vehicle in today's society, NOT killing an innocent life because it's awkward, cumbersome, disaccommodating, disadvantageous, embarrassing, inopportune, objectionable, troublesome, uncomfortable, and unseasonable????? Ugh!

Two precious lives. Two beating hearts. Two people worth protecting. Why can't we love them both? BOTH lives "should" count! If you're on a one-man raft in the middle of the ocean, would it be okay to throw the other overboard to save your own life? Every effort, no matter the situation, should be made to save the lives of both the mother and the child!

Please know, I am in NO way, judging those that have had an abortion. I merely want to expose abortion for what it is, taking the life of an innocent child and to let women of all ages know there is hope! We are all God's children. He loves us unconditionally, no matter what we've done. If you are reading this post and have had an abortion, remember God loves you and is willing to forgive you. He is a merciful God and is waiting for you. Remember you were once touched by His hand's, you too are His creation!

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made..." Psalms 139:13

Sanctity of Life Day 2009

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 13:18:00 +0000

Today is National Sanctity of Life Day as proclaimed by President George W. Bush on January 15, 2009.

All human life is a gift from our Creator that is sacred, unique, and worthy of protection. On National Sanctity of Human Life Day, our country recognizes that each person, including every person waiting to be born, has a special place and purpose in this world. We also underscore our dedication to heeding this message of conscience by speaking up for the weak and voiceless among us.

The most basic duty of government is to protect the life of the innocent. My Administration has been committed to building a culture of life by vigorously promoting adoption and parental notification laws, opposing Federal funding for abortions overseas, encouraging teen abstinence, and funding crisis pregnancy programs. In 2002, I was honored to sign into law the Born-Alive Infants Protection Act, which extends legal protection to children who survive an abortion attempt. I signed legislation in 2003 to ban the cruel practice of partial-birth abortion, and that law represents our commitment to building a culture of life in America. Also, I was proud to sign the Unborn Victims of Violence Act of 2004, which allows authorities to charge a person who causes death or injury to a child in the womb with a separate offense in addition to any charges relating to the mother.

America is a caring Nation, and our values should guide us as we harness the gifts of science. In our zeal for new treatments and cures, we must never abandon our fundamental morals. We can achieve the great breakthroughs we all seek with reverence for the gift of life.

The sanctity of life is written in the hearts of all men and women. On this day and throughout the year, we aspire to build a society in which every child is welcome in life and protected in law. We also encourage more of our fellow Americans to join our just and noble cause. History tells us that with a cause rooted in our deepest principles and appealing to the best instincts of our citizens, we will prevail.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim January 18, 2009, as National Sanctity of Human Life Day. I call upon all Americans to recognize this day with appropriate ceremonies and to underscore our commitment to respecting and protecting the life and dignity of every human being.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Please take time to pray for and remember the unborn children and their rights. Now more than ever, no matter your faith, we need to unite and pray for those who cannot speak for themselves.

FOCA Would Wipe Away Every Restriction on Abortion Nationwide

This would eradicate state and federal laws that the majority of Americans support, such as:

Bans on Partial Birth Abortion
Requirements that women be given information about the risks of getting an abortion
Only licensed physicians can perform abortions
Parents must be informed and give consent to their minor daughter's abortion

FOCA would erase these laws and prevent states from enacting similar protective measures in the future.

What would be the FIRST thing YOU would do as president?

Barack Obama seems to be a decent human being, in fact, I like the guy. However, I do NOT agree with nor will I support him in his agenda to pass the FOCA (Freedom Of Choice Act!)

Call and write your senators and representatives NOW. Time is running out!

NATIONAL RIGHT TO LIFE

AMERICA'S UNITED FOR LIFE

SHOUT FIRST ASK QUESTIONS LATER! THIS IS A MUST SEE BLOG POSTING!!!!

Because of Him,

Update! Read All About It!

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 02:56:00 +0000

I wanted to update you on my special friend from Florida who has been fighting Stage IIIB Breast Cancer for almost a year now. I first blogged about Tisha Rambaransingh, single mother of two beautiful kids, back in October '08. You will also find her story on GodTube.com she is known as GodsGirl35

"COME SEE WHAT GOD HAS DONE,

HOW AWESOME HIS WORKS IN MAN'S BEHALF."

(Psalms 66:5)

I'm ecstatic to announce that Tisha's pathology reports came back reporting NO SIGNS OF BREAST CANCER!!! My heart is overjoyed for Tisha and her family. {{{{BIG HUGS}}}} to you Tisha! I've never felt so happy for another as I do right now. I continue to be amazed at God's power, so much it leaves me breathless. Thank you God for saving my friend Tisha and giving her the miracle of life again!

Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you to live.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Because of Him,

Where Is "Footloose Friday?"

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 02:48:00 +0000

"Footloose Friday"... is...um ... how do I put this? Not ready for release... quite yet. Due to some unforeseen circumstances I wasn't able to get things up and ready for this week. I'm as disappointed as you are, but never fret, it will STILL happen! I'm just not going to give a release date until I "know" 100% it's a go!

Soooooo...instead, today is all about FUN! You know what "they" say, "Laughter is the best medicine!" (But have you ever thought about who "they" are? Hmmmm....)

An interesting day for the weatherman

There's nothing like getting "in" to your work...

Enjoy your weekend!

Thankful Thursday #2

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 03:36:00 +0000

I've always liked the game, "word association." You know, where you say a word and then the other person says the first thing that comes to mind. For example, I say "peanut" you say "butter." I say "apple" you say "orange." So, I thought, I'd try it on this week's "Thankful Thursday." The word is THANKFUL...

Thankful............(response).............In all things!

I Thessalonians 5:18

You see, one thing I've learned over the past several years is to be thankful, NO MATTER WHAT! At first, the concept was hard to understand and even harder to apply. But with time, it has become second nature. And you know what? I've been blessed again and again because of it! Thank you Jesus for where I am right now in my life.

Thankful........(response)........for my parents... who made me take piano lessons starting the summer before my 2nd grade year, until I was a senior in high school. And if that wasn't enough, I HAD to get up bright and early EVERY morning to practice 30 minutes before school and then AGAIN 30 minutes after a long day at school. UGH! I remember it like it was yesterday, but the persistence paid off and I am forever thankful Mom and Dad!

Thankful........(response)........for a dependable vehicle, which warms up quickly when it's a blistering -0 degrees out, with north winds blowing at 10-15 mph.

Thankful........(response)........SPRAY-N-WASH...

for when my 14 yr. old wears his BRAND new, never worn, white t-shirt, (UNDER something mind you), yet still finds a way to get spaghetti sauce all over it. A mother's work is TRULY never done!

For these things Lord, for all things and in all things I give YOU the glory!

In His Name,

Word-Filled Wednesday #2

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:19:00 +0000

The purpose of Word filled Wednesday is to share God’s word through a photo and verse. If you’d like to be added, click on this link and follow the directions from there. Make sure and link back here so others can visit and learn about WFW as well!

There is only one path, one door, to heaven.

All others lead in the wrong direction.

Two Shall Become One-"My Beloved"

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:20:00 +0000

Last week I committed to take on a new A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E towards my marriage relationship. However, there were numerous times this past week, that I caught myself starting to nag or be critical of my husband's actions, only to think of King Solomon's words in Proverbs 31:10-31.

"She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises."

"First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started."

"...she always faces tomorrow with a smile."

Let's be honest! Calling all women AND men who have been married for 10 years or longer. Your expertise is warranted. Please take the poll in my right sidebar, which reads, "Do you still..." You may vote/comment until next Monday, January 19th. Results will be given in next week's Two Shall Become One Tuesday's post.

A person's attitude says so much. Therefore, I decided to stop and look at MYSELF before taking another step on my journey this week. I found I was so caught up in how my husband needed to change that I never considered if I needed to change! I talked to God, asking Him what I needed to do to change; how I could change; and what needed changing. It was a time of self-reflection and not an easy one at that.

I soon realized I was looking to my husband for things he could not humanly give me. I expected him to be my "everything" and when he wasn't, it caused a rift in our marriage. See, I was longing for an earthly beloved to "make it all better" when I already had a beloved who loved me far more and deeper than I could ever comprehend. I've never thought of my relationship with Jesus this way, but how I've been blessed in doing so.

Memory Monday #2

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 05:36:00 +0000

Whew! That week went by fast! It's "MEMORY MONDAY" again. How did you do on your verse last week?

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation;
the old has gone the new has come!"
II Corinthians 5:17

The old has gone...YES!... and the new has come! Time to PAR-TAY! The more I read and studied this verse, the more excited I became. "Therefore, if ANYONE is in Christ...wait, did that say "anyone"? Do you think that means "anyone" such as the lady down the street who had an abortion as a teenager, but then found the Lord later in life and asked to be forgiven? Or the drug-addicted, strung-out dad around the corner who lost his family to drugs, went to prison, and found the Lord while serving his time behind bars? It does say, "anyone IN Christ..." And all anyone has to do to be IN Christ, is turn from their old ways, repent of their sins, ask Jesus to come into their hearts, and be baptized. Amazing! Talk about a God full of mercy and grace. Off with the old and in with the new.

However, keep in mind, doing the right thing is not always the easiest thing. It's a challenge to resist temptation and stay pure in heart. The stresses of "life" can deplete us from the strength we need to get things done and in some cases even getting out of bed each morning. We find ourselves growing weary; emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, then when the going gets tough, it's hard to get going. Take a look at this week's verse found in Isaiah.

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."
Isaiah 40:29

Do you feel weak? Do you need more energy to run your race? A personal relationship with God gives us strength that can keep us going. Participating in prayer, reading the Bible and living close to God gives us power that only God can provide. When we believe and trust what we read in scripture and in how God works, our hope is sustained. This strong belief and hope, grounded in scripture, can give us strength. (Yet another reason to share in Memory Monday's!)

So, I'll ask again...how is your strength? How much time do you dedicate to renewing this strength? Why not have some one-on-one time with God now and see if your strength becomes stronger.

Because of Him,

Footloose Friday's

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 23:00:00 +0000

"Loose, footloose
Kick off your Sunday shoes
Please, Louise
Pull me off a my knees
Jack, get back
C'mon before we crack
Lose, your blues
Everybody cut footloose!"

Written by:
Kenny Loggins for the Motion Picture "Footloose"

Check back next Friday for, FOOTLOOSE FRIDAY'S!
Where as Webster says, "one is free to go or do as one pleases!"
It's sure to be fun!

Thankful Thursday #1

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:34:00 +0000

I am so excited about today's post! I've joined Iris and many others at Grace Alone for Thankful Thursday. The idea of "TT" is to give thanks through out the year and not just at Thanksgiving. Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.
I Thessalonians 5:18 (The Message)

In honor of my FIRST TT post, I am honoring my family! I have been blessed with a wonderful, fun-loving, crazy, family, whom I love with all my heart! Thank you Jesus for giving them to me and allowing me time with them here on earth. May I be the kind of daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, "in-law", wife, and mother you would have me be.

(Re-posted)

Word-Filled Wednesday #1

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 08:50:00 +0000

Each Wednesday I will be joining The 160 Hundred Acre Woods for WORD-FILLED WEDNESDAY'S OR WFW for short! The purpose of Word filled Wednesday is to share God’s word through photo’s & a verse! If you’d like to be added to the blog roll, click on the link above and follow the directions from there. You are welcome to use my WFW on your site. Just send a link back here so others can visit and learn about WFW as well. Don't forget to leave me a comment. This is my FIRST WFW so I need lots of feedback! God bless!

I Want A New Attitude

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 01:43:00 +0000

God continues to amaze me. While tweeting, checking e-mails, and blogging this morning, I "somehow" ended up at Praise and Coffee. I'd never happened onto this site before today, yet it It was there that I read: "Our attitudes are a result of our thoughts toward our spouse. Our actions are quick to follow those thoughts and attitudes." I skimmed it again, "...attitudes...thoughts...spouse...actions... are quick to... thoughts... but.. I.. couldn't... me... MY attitude? Surely not, yet... if I asked my husband what he thought about my attitude, what would he say? Was I temperamental, domineering, manipulative, insensitive, neglectful, critical, and even selfish? What kind of attitude had I been conveying in our marriage toward my husband? Had I given him, us, our marriage, the time, love, and dedication I'd so willingly given to others? Was there resentment bottled up from months before?

I sat still, listening to the sound of my heart racing, my blood pounding. Seconds passed, minutes, then the following scriptures came to mind...

A good woman is hard to find,
and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve,
and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously
all her life long.
She shops around for the best yarns and cottons,
and enjoys knitting and sewing.
She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places
and brings back exotic surprises.
She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast
for her family and organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it,
then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden.
First thing in the morning, she dresses for work,
rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.
She senses the worth of her work,
is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth,
diligent in homemaking.
She's quick to assist anyone in need,
reaches out to help the poor.
She doesn't worry about her family when it snows;
their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
She makes her own clothing,
and dresses in colorful linens and silks.
Her husband is greatly respected
when he deliberates with the city fathers.
She designs gowns and sells them,
brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.
Her clothes are well-made and elegant,
and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say,
and she always says it kindly.
She keeps an eye on everyone in her household,
and keeps them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her;
her husband joins in with words of praise:
"Many women have done wonderful things,
but you've outclassed them all!"
Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.
The woman to be admired and praised
is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.
Give her everything she deserves!
Festoon her life with praises!
Proverbs 31:10-31
(The Message)

THIS is the woman I yearn to be! THIS is the attitude I want to have!
"Off with the old and in with the new!" (2 Corinthians 5:16-17)

How many of you find yourself so caught up in the daily hustle and bustle of "life" that what God intended to be holy, sacred, and second to Him, simply gets thrown out the window? ****Hand raised here!**** I encourage you to take time and read Proverbs 31:10-31 again. Keep in mind, God doesn't expect any woman to "roll over and play dead" or be a "doormat" but "God-like" in every way, everyday.

I ask, are you the kind of wife God has made you to be? What are the struggles you face? Feel free to comment. You can be sure you aren't alone and what better way for each of us to be encouraged?

Because of Him,

Memories...Whoa..oh..oh.. Memories

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 07:33:00 +0000

The busier I am, the older I become, both of these have had a lasting effect on my memory. But, what is memory? How does it work? And why am I so forgetful? Whoa, slow down! Let's start at the beginning...PSYCH 101...Memory is: the retention of, and ability to recall, information over time. So, how do we form memories let alone keep and remember them? It begins with ENCODING, a procedure for transforming something a person sees, hears, thinks, or feels into a memory. Once that has been done, your brain keeps and stores the memory. There is short term memory, working memory, and long term memory. Whew! That's a lot to "remember!"

Short term memory lasts for about 20-30 seconds. Long term memory on the other hand, has been suggested to be permanent: that nothing is forgotten only the means of retrieving it is lost. There is also evidence that we retain more than we can retrieve. (I'd buy into that.)

With that being said, I suppose you're asking yourself, "where is she going with all of this?!?!?" Let me explain. First, I am a huge fan of Psychology. The human brain is beyond fascinating and such a complex piece of work that no one except God himself could ever have created it. This in itself is breathtaking! Second, I am a teacher at heart, so I tend to "teach" by accident. It's a part of who I am. Third and lastly, it's an introduction to the challenge I have for you today. It's important to know "what" you are learning and "why."

Memorizing scripture is one of the best ways to "get the Bible into your life" on a daily basis. It helps you develop and/or maintain a close relationship with God and equips you with the tools needed to share the gospel to those who have never heard it.

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." II Timothy 3:16
"I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11
"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." Isaiah 40:8
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." Psalms 119:105

What better reasons are there? I am challenging you to join Memory Monday's hosted by "The Simple Wife" blog. I've committed to this as part of my weekly devotions and New Year's Reflections. The idea of "writing God's words on our hearts," or simply stated, memorizing scripture on a weekly basis is the goal of this challenge. Ask the Lord to show you through your memorization and study, what He would have you get from His word. Continually place this in your heart and you will be blessed.

Please comment and let me know if you join the Memory Monday challenge. My hope is for us to encourage each other with this challenge as time progresses and "life" gets in the way. This week's verse is:

So from now on, we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:16-17)

A new year calls for new beginnings..."the old is gone the new has come!"

Because of Him,

New Year's Meditations Part II

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome back! I've been "meditating" on my goals, dreams, aspirations, desires, and hopes for 2009 and wanted to share with each of you.

As previously stated, in my original "New Year's Meditations," Lori's Reflections inspired me to start my "New Year's" journey. However, along the way there were other blogs, which spoke to my heart, "It's All About Him" was one of these. So much of what I was feeling and thinking was written through out. When reading this blog, the Lord laid on my heart, "purpose" or the lack of it in my life and living INTENTIONALLY. Webster defines intention as: a determination to act in a certain way; a synonym of intention is purpose." As Tricia stated, I too, want to live intentionally. Many days over the past year, I've merely survived, because I "had" to. "I went through the motions, and did what I had to do to "get through" the day." Then, at the end of the day, there was an emptiness I longed to fill. So, my list begins...

Live with purpose! Each decision I make, every step I take will be INTENTIONAL! My desire is to focus solely on my relationship with the Lord and my family, while not letting the "little things" or "trivial" things come in between these relationships. In order to accomplish this, I will need to

*trust and accept that my "needs" might not be the same as God's needs for my life (Proverbs 3:5)
*take the focus off my needs and be open to the needs of my husband's and children (Romans 12:8)
*lose the want to control and be a submissive wife to my husband (I Peter 3:1)
*loose control, let go and let God! (John 14:1)
*become self-less in ALL things EVERY day, not just when it's good for me (Phillipians 2:3)
*be slow to anger (Ephesians 4:26)
*focus on my inner beauty, by obtaining a gentle and quiet spirit (I Peter 3:4)
*intentionally take care of myself better by exercising and eating healthier (I Corinthians 6:19)
*live with the end in mind (Phillipians 3:14)

2. Another thing pulling at my heart strings is the desire to serve others. I've always had a heart for helping those in need, but it wasn't until recently that I felt a strong and passionate urge to "somehow" become actively involved in reaching out and serving others. I don't know why I feel this way, except that the need is great! I ask for God's guidance in this and that my eyes will be open to His will. (I Peter 4:10)

The following are a few scattered thoughts.. a lil' that... a lil' this, which need sorting, but that I wanted to go ahead and share with you.

*My oldest son will be ending his sophomore year and beginning his junior year. I ask for God's direction and wisdom for the time we have left with him and that it will be used wisely, be meaningful, and cherished forever.

*My middle son will be starting high school. Ugh! I am concerned about him for several reasons, one being his diabetes and celiac disease. I ask for the Lord's help in letting him go and trusting everything will be "okay."

*My baby son (he would not like that.. hehehehe) will be starting middle school. He is a fragile boy and I worry about his self-esteem and happiness. I ask for God's guidance in helping him the best way possible and to be the kind of mom he wants me to be.

*I quit my teaching job after 10 years, May of 2008. Although it has been the best thing for my family, financially it has taken a toll on us. Do I go back to full-time teaching or do I stay at home? What and where should I be Lord?

*I am unsure what direction my blog should go this year. As a "baby" blogger (began September 2008), I didn't realize all that was involved, how addicting it could be, or how much enjoyment I would get from blogging. I am blessed with many new friends from all over the world and I am thankfu for each one of them. Lord, where do I go from here? I don't want to ramble on unless there is a purpose invovled. Please open my heart and eyes to your will.

I have no idea what 2009 holds for me, my family, or friends, but I do know that my awesome God is in control and watching over each one of us as a shepherd tends to his flock. (John 10:14) I encourage you to take a look at Lori's Reflections and the other 38 bloggers who joined this challenge. I hope you will join my on my journey in 2009. Feel free to link back to my site and let me know about your dreams, aspirations, prayers, and hopes for the new year. I appreciate you reading my post.

For Him,

New Year's Meditation

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 07:18:00 +0000

Please take time to check out her blog, Lori's Relfections. You will be blessed!

I HATE New Year's resolutions! Have you ever wondered how many people make New Year's resolutions and actually follow through with them... for the WHOLE year? I'd bet my polka-dotted, lime green socks that more times than not, people who make a resolution one day, end up breaking it the next. This year, thanks to Laurel, or should I say Lori, one of my closer on-line friends, I've been inspired to meditate upon the coming year and that which the Lord wants for my life. In doing so, here is what I've discovered.

Webster defines resolution as, to find an answer to or make clear or understandable. I am not sure ANYTHING in my crazy, mixed-up life has EVER been made clear, without a doubt understandable! Humans are curious by nature, inquisitive, always asking questions, which is how we learn and grow. Yet is there an answer to every question? Who are we relying on for our answers? Could we be looking in the wrong places? Do we stumble upon our answers and "hope" for the best? Or are we lead with specific intentions and purpose? Where does our "faith" come into all of this? Maybe there is a better way...

Meditation- to focus one's thoughts on, ponder over, and to plan or project in the mind. Let's break it down even further...

FOCUS>>> a point of concentration; to focus one's powers, efforts, or attention on

PONDER>>>> to consider or examine attentively or deliberately-on purpose

PROJECT>>>> a method devised for making or doing something or achieving an end

In short, meditation is a process of purposeful concentration, with the end in mind. WOW! What an amazing thought! Taking the time to think and focus on where I've been and where I want to be. I like the sound of that! Spiritually, we are instructed through out the Bible to:

"...grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
II Peter 3:18 (NIV)

Growing involves asking questions, yes, but then we are to meditate and focus on what we've learned and continue our purpose driven life from there. AMAZING! I'm sold!

I look forward to 2009 and living "intentionally." What about you? I challenge you to take time to "meditate" and decide where you life is heading in '09. I'll be doing the same. Join me tomorrow as I share my initial findings with you.

God bless!

The Joyous News!

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 07:58:00 +0000

“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:8-14

Why did the angel say, “unto you”? He could have just said, “For a Savior, Christ, the Lord is born this day.” But he says, ‘Unto you!”

He uses those words because they describe why the news is so joyous! The child is born unto you! Unto all the people! The child is born:

* Not just to the rich and powerful,
* Not just to the Pharisees and Sadducees,
* Not just to the chief priests and the scribes,

But to you! To all the people, young and old, rich and poor, healthy and sick, strong and weak. The prophecy had said, “unto us a child is born.” So the angel says, “This child is born unto you! Truly, a good and great joy.

This is the joyous news, the great joy! Unto you has been born a Savior, the Messiah – the Lord! This is the day, the long-awaited day, the day when there would be no more delay. The child is born. The Messiah is come.

* Unto you – lost in sin, dead in rebellion, doomed to destruction;
* Unto you – mockers of God, violators of His Law, idolaters at heart;

This child Himself will be your peace. This child will be your entryway to God. This child will die to pay the penalty for your sins, if you only believe in Him, if you only see Him for what He is: Your Savior, your Messiah, your Lord, your treasure. Unto you is born this day a Savior.

H.O.P.E.

zuckie-cookie@hotmail.com (Lil This Lil That-The Spore Family) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 05:48:00 +0000

Hope, defined as;

...a belief in a positive outcome related to events and circumstances one's life.
... the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best.
...a wish or desire accompanied by confident expectation of its fulfillment.

Hope in Afrikanns is hoop
Hope in Dutch is hopen
Hope in Finnish is toivoa
Hope in German is hoffe, Hoffnung, Hoffnung, hoffen, hoffen
Hope in Italian is sperare, speranza
Hope in Latin is spero, spes
Hope in Spanish is esperanza
No matter how you say it, it's still H.O.P.E.

Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all. Dale Carnegie

Hope is passion for what is possible. Soren Kierkegaard

Don't lose hope. When it gets darkest the starts come out. Unknown

It is difficult to say what is impossilble, for the dream of yesterday is the hope of today and the reality of tomorrow. Robert H. Goddard

Hope is the thing with feathers, that perches in the soul, and sings the tunes without the words and never stops at all. Emily Dickinson

Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.
Psalms 31:24

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Romans 12:12

But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Romans 8:25

Hope, without it, what is there?