When We Shocked the Church

Oh, come on, you loved the 80's and you hung around the Roxy and the Troubador as much as we did. I remember! They were pioneers of that Christian Rock scene don't you know. Pretty-boy rockers who brougth Jesus to the streets of LA. I will admit, the life of a rocker's wife was pretty tough, but these guys loved the Lord and had purpose. Ah, where did it all go?

I was married to one these pretty boys (photograph above) who also "posed" as Jesus for a poster. He's now an art teacher, and a good one. One of them is touring with um . . . Avion (formerly The Tories) and also with Venice when their drummer toured with the Eagles, pretty boy on the right is working for the government last I heard, and pretty boy on the left is a missionary for CRM.

What did you do in the 80's?

America's Cities

I strolled through the neihborhood the other day and found five for-sale signs. This community is less than a year old. Where would they be going then? It's not time to abandon ship yet. Search for better lands? Well, neighbor to our right (who has become very good friends with half the people in our little desert complex) will soon depart. Of course, I had to ask, "oh but why?" What are you looking for? And where are you going?

"Texas," she announced. "In hopes that we might be able to afford a house and send the kids to better schools."

Another friend moved to Boise, Idaho. Boise, Idaho! "What on Earth is in Boise, Idaho?" I said. Well, I must admit, she's still there and loving it. So let's investigate Boise, shall we . . .

We found Boise homes with 2.5 baths for $264,900. Not too shabby, I dare say. And according to Fortune Magazine Boise is rated number one on its list for best places for business and careers.

Interested in reading a little about Boise's history? Just travel here as they proudly claim that even though "Boise is a thriving hub of economic activity, it retains the qualities that have long attracted new residents to the region: strong senses of culture and history, stunning natural landscapes and an open, family-friendly atmosphere."

Low cost of living, affordable housing and good school districts? Tell me is that what you look for in a new city? I guess Boise has it.

Current Writing Project

1) I'm three assignments behind. Hopefully my mentor/teacher doesn't read my blog. I'll have to start catching up when the Princess goes back to school. Tomorrow we'll be shopping with the gift card her Dad gave her. He did good.

2) 3rd draft of finished novel, Swords of the Watchers, is now in progress. I'm getting sick of this manuscript. Somebody take it off my hands and publish it already!!

3) I've started interviewing my amazing and brave Mom and Dad to write about the five years they each spent in a POW camp in WWII. And, btw, if America had pulled out of that war (or never entered it) my parents would have been dead at age 5 (mom) and age 12 forDad.

On Patrol

Christmas in Chicago. And who would wander out in 9 below for a scavenger hunt? I guess Robyn would. Well, okay, for a $1000 cash prize and some HP digital camera equipment, I might not blame her. Even I could be convinced to leave the castle for that. But wait I live in Southern California, it most likely will never reach below zero, unless we drive up the local mountains.

I'm thinking, however, that I am a tad bit too timid to go on any California street to collect pictures and videos of strangers. And with my luck the Postie Patrol will wait till it's 200 degrees or something before they find me. Oh, I need some courage and most likely a few Digital Photography Tips.

In any case,watch this video (that I may receive compensation), but only if you like, and witness the cool people in Chicago freezing their you-know-whats off to complete a crazy scavenger hunt for the ever illusive money prize of $1000 and HP gems. My favorite part is to see Ted act absolutely nuts and wonderfully cool. Right off the bat he lends a helping hand to Robyn by stripping down to his shorts for one of the required pictures. Way to go! Here's the moving and talking pictures for your enjoyment.





Thanks for the view and FYI -- This post was brought to you by HP.

A Message From Sharon E.

Start 2007 with purpose!
Let 2007 be the year you finally WRITE THAT BOOK!

Get moving on that dream at the upcoming
AuthorizeMe Seminar


You will leave this 12-hour, fun, informative, life-changing seminar with:

Your book completely planned
A query letter
A complete table of contents
A full chapter synopsis
A full proposal template (with much of it filled in)
Ideas on finding markets
And much more!

Bring your laptop and your thinking cap! Be prepared to learn an incredible, organizational, time-saving, sure-fire method to help not only get your book completed, but noticed by acquisitions editors. You will leave confidently able to pitch your book idea to interested publishers who will exclaim, "Send me your proposal!" After attending this class, you'll have that propsal ready to send or even to place immediately in their hands!

All it takes to get the registration ball rolling is to e-mail AuthorizeMe@sbcglobal.net
or send registration information and payment to:

AuthorizeMe
P.O. Box 1519
Inglewood, CA 90308

Get in on the first AuthorizeMe Seminar of 2007.

January 19 - 20, 2007
South Los Angeles Baptist Church
9203 S. Avalon Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90003

Seminar Tuition: $250.00
(Payment plans are available)

AuthorizeMe is taught by Sharon Norris Elliott:

23-year veteran educator
published author
professional editor assistant
director of Sandy Cove Christian Writers' Conference
sought-after conference speaker

(For Christian & positive message books only.)

Spread the word!

writers Writing Seminar writing help Sharon Norris Elliott

The Salad Bar

I promised myself I would go back to eating salads after Thanksgiving . . . I mean after Christmas. No wait, we have one more party to go. I'll eat salad after on the First of 2007. I promise.

Anyhow, here's a few salad recipes Mom and I gathered for her cookbook, Come and Dine. Mind you these are not your ordinary ice berg lettuce. No, we get more creative than that. Nothing wrong with a good ice berg salad with a few veggies and croutons, but we're talking extraordinary here. Take a look, we worked hard on these . . .

Here's a salad from Japan with almonds, top ramen, and rice vinegar.

You'll like this one from Indonesia (correct pronunctiation not required) called Rujak Kankung. This one might be a little spicy but you could always keep the chilies out and enjoy the tofu and tamarind juice.

Well, let's not stop there. I think you all should try a Black Bean Salad with some fresh corn, pepper, wine vinegar, olive oil and beans, of course. Or enjoy a personal favorite--Cabbage Salad with sesame seeds, some butter and soya sauce.

Salad Bar is still open: Mandaran Salad for you? How about a Salad with the most weirdest ingredients combo--baby spinach with yogurt. Go ahead, get some. It's amazing. And here's one more for the taste buds: it's a layered Fruit Salad with grapes, kiwis and some orange juice.

Baby Smooth Tummy Skin

Just a few words for the new mommies who would like to prevent those stretch marks. Found a crazy product, all natural, called Tummy Honey. Personally I love the ingredients of Tummy Honey which include aloe vera, cocoa butter, and olive oil. It also has vitamd D and E which worked wonders on my stretch marks after my daughter (lovingly known as The Princess) was born.

It is said that Tummy Honey maintains elasticity and moisture deep into skin layers. How's that for smooth? If you'd like to read more reviews by a couple of celebrity moms go read it at Mother's Intuition.

For My Writer Friends

If you're a writer you need to come check this out. Join me at AC (Associated Content) and make some money for writing articles. There are many topics to choose from. Even your short stories have a place here though there's no payment for those yet. There's money in well-written how-to articles and also a pay check could depend on how many articles you can produce. Some money could be made for book reviews, music reviews etc. or interviews with famous or interesting people.

If you're interested here's my newest submission published at AC:
Of Jazz And Shadows

I've also submitted a how-to article--still waiting to see if it's accepted for payment.

More Savings For All

Where did you do most of your shopping these holidays? Target perhaps, or Best Buy? Well, we all appreciate finding those good deals and I sure hope you got the best of them before you read this. If you didn't, please come get your coupons here for your next shopping excursions. HP is still offering up to $300 off a notebook for your small business or get free shipping on name brands at Baby Age for all your baby needs. Coupon Chief has coupons for dozens of other stores. There's quite a good amount of savings for you so give them a try.

Happy Birthday Jesus

This morning, around 7:00am I woke up shivering--my blankets had fallen off the bed. Brrr, but I was up, said "Happy Birthday Jesus and how may I bless you today?" If I could.

Well, it's the 25th of December and it is deathly quiet in my neighborhood. Maybe that will change later. So I'm surfing the internet, made a couple of cents, threw away the turkey bones and am watching my daughter defeat those evil Orcs. Blah! Those graphics are just nasty!

It's going to be a nice, peaceful and relaxing Christmas Day. No friends, no family, just the Princess, the Gatekeeper, a few sword-wielding rangers and some pretty-boy elfs defending Middle Earth. I do however, miss the child that went to spend Christmas with his Dad. But these things we accept. Oh, yes, and let's not forget the Cowboys are fighting the Eagles, I believe, in just a little while. What fun it is to . . .

Christmas Eve was nice. Just two gifts for everyone, but we all adored each other for trying. It just meant so much more this year as we were reminded of the trials this family went through last year. No home, no food (the police department showed up with a Christmas meal later) and a very sick child. It's great to have blessings and miracles.

Hope you all have a terrific day and maybe this year instead of returning gifts you don't fit or like, you could give it away to charity. God bless.

Christmas Day gifts

The Vitamins We Choose

If it's vitamins you take, it would be safe to say that the industry was smart to have taken on the internet. Don't you think? It's true. Millions of us take our daily doses of vitamins. And if you are anything like me, one who avoids crowds, it would be a simple virtual walk over to Vuru.com that would make shopping a little less painful.

You get to pick the brand, over 2000 are offered, and choose the exact vitamins and supplements you desire to take. Then to make life even more pleasant they will package your said vitamins and supplements into convenient cool daily packs.

What's left to do but to open one and take your daily supply. Vuru.com is like walking into your favorite health food store, no lines, no waiting around, and you get only what you need. What's not to like? Here's to our health.

A Message From the Year of Our Lord 1100

May the Son of God
Who is already formed in you
Grow in you
He will become
Laughter
Exultation
the Fullness of Joy
Which no one
Will take from you

A benediction from Isaac of Stella

Can You Hear That?

Would you be looking for a job? Need to maximize those opportunities? Resume a little outdated? Here's a tool you might not have heard of. Let your future employer hear your resume. It will, no doubt, look very impressive. Click here and Learn More About Audio Resume.

From what I gather, to create your resume is a very simple procedure. It's done through a toll-free number and then is placed onto your profile. You get your very own url that employers can then listen to. Sounds like a plan, don't you think? Go ahead and try it. They promise it will enhance your professional image.


jobs audio resume employment professional image

For All The Single Moms

There are so many reasons why I love my church and church family. Today, once again, I am reminded why I travel the 80 miles each Sunday (and every other Thursday evening) when I received this Christmas card from one of our pastors. Here's a little bit of the letter that was inside.

. . . I wish I could enclose in this card a host of gifts for you. A Starbucks card, a massage certificate, a housekeeping service, a nanny and personal assistant, a best friend if you lack one, and exciting vacation destination, and a good home-cooked meal. However, they won't all fit! And none of those things are in themselves, or ultimately, what you need. The best thing I can give you is God's Word, which is life and strength and health and joy.

. . . In Psalm 111 I was stopped at the second sentence and pondered whether I do or could honestly give thanks to the Lord. I give thanks with my tired heart, my overwhelmed heart, my lonely heart, my grumpy heart, my frustrated heart, my irritated and ungrateful heart, my selfish heart . . . bring all of who you are at the moment to the throne of grace. You will likely find your heart transformed. The psalmist of 116 reveals one of the reasons why we love God so much. "I love you Lord because you hear me. You listen to my requests and cries." If we will speak, he will listen. If we confess, he will forgive.

Getting help for depression, debt or cash management issues as well as needs for food, gas or help with insurmountable expenses is important and possible--please call me. If you are hurting let your community know.

Well God has been good to us and (I don't know how it happened) we have no insurmountable expenses and no issues with depression or a lack of food. I might ask for some gas money though. It's good to know my church family cares. It's also good to have wonderful parents, kids and my bestests friends of my writing group.

And, by the way, this year I've gotten encouragement and inspiration from a few bloggers which include Foot Steps of Love, and Seedlings in Stone. Thanks guys.

Postie's Blog Love

It's a wonderful Christmas Eve's eve. The castle is a tad bit chilly but we'll fix that soon enough . Sarah and Layne have just started baking their famous pinwheel sugar cookies with chocolate swirls--we intend to eat them while curling up in front of the fireplace. While they bake I do what all good Gatekeepers do and surf the web. Not too many Gatekeepers actually know how to do that. Today, while finding many blogs worthy to be read, I came across a blog that all posties love and would like to pass on.

It's our beloved PPP blog where one can find all the contests that would put extra cash in your pocket and have fun doing it. Need a new camera? Then hurry and join. Most unfortunate, but I completely missed out on the PPP puzzle contest--might have won a nice bag of coins. No worry. There's always something of note going on.

By now it is apparent that all bloggers would like to join the ranks of PPP (and why wouldn't you I might ask?) so their blog would be the best realm to actually catch up with PPP news, updates and for heaven's sake check out the crazy-fun videos. Go on, a good laugh is nourishing for the soul. So journey over to said blog, leave your hearty comments at the door and come on in. Merry Christmas to one and all.

TT Ed # 8 On Friday

AdventBasics

1. Advent is the preparation season for Christmas

2. It lasts for at least four Sundays

3. The longest Advent seasons are when Christmas falls on a Sunday

4. Premier Symbol: The Advent Wreath--the circle symbolizes God's love, which has no beginning or ending.

5. The greenery is for hope and eternity.

6. The wreath has four candles (three purple and one pink)

7. The candles represent the four weeks of Advent.

8. The flame is a symbol of the One who is called "the Light of the world."

9. One candle is lit for each of the Sundays.

10. Scriptures are read from Isaiah, the prophets, and passages concerning John the Baptist, as Christ's herald.

11. Theme: waiting (for the birth of Jesus and His second coming), and Hope.

12. The purple candles represents, hope, peace and love. The pink candle represents joy.

13. The one white candle represents "Christ has come."

Merry Christmas Everyone!

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Still Looking?

When all has been said and done and the season has passed us by, what will you remember most of all? Did you spend time with your kids? I mean precious, quality time? Did the shopping get the best of you or did you manage to find the quiet, peaceful moments or share a good meal with the ones you love. It's almost Christmas and your shopping is done, right? We hope so, but if not . . . then grab your laptop, find your favorite corner and get those last minute gifts in peace.

For the music lover try these classic opera glasses. Yes, you heard me. Need those prescription sunglasses come visit OpticsPlanet. And for the way-too-adventurous boys in your life get them those night vision goggles if you dare. I don't think they can see through steele. But I could be wrong. And if your order is over $29.95 you don't pay a dime for shipping and handling. Sounds like a treat and a deal to me.

So get happy, browse through the thousands of unique gifts at OpticsPlanet and give your car a rest. It's no fun tackling that traffic anyhow. Merry Christmas to one and all.

Good Tidings To All

Four years ago the king left this castle. We heard he is happy now. It is all I wanted for him. Nonetheless, he left behind three broken hearts of which one has not healed. Maybe this Christmas the Princess will forgive and reunite with the king.

Love your family, my friends, cherish them forever and a day, and may you never forget the reason for the Peace and the Hope He promised us.

The Empty Christmas Tree

The high desert is cold this Christmas. There's a thin layer of frost in the early mornings. Not so good for the plants, especially the cherry tree which looked so promising this summer. Nonetheless, the snow on the local mountain tops makes it feel like Christmas, indeed. And though there are no presents under the tree, neither child has made a complaint. Truly I am blessed.

Little brother and family came over today and spent precious time with us. It's how Christmas should be. Just being together and singing The First Noel. They came bearing gifts, I bowed in silence. There was nothing I could give in return. So we cooked up a great meal for them and we ate, we laughed and talked all day.

The high light of our day was when Nephew snuck around with his mighty film camera. It wasn't long beforel we surrendered to his lense and all enjoyed acting goofy. Magically, his digital camera displayed the images onto his lap top, instantly. Father was very impressed. Princess Sarah did not say a word but I could guess her thoughts: It would be nice if but just one present was under the tree--a new HP digital camera with a new photo printer perhaps? I surely would get it for her (a film major without equipment). . . if I could.

"Ah, Mom," she said. "A digital camera would make it easy for me to send pictures from college to home."

"Maybe someday," I said.

"I know," she whispers.

There might be a way, I thought. After all, this post is sponsored by HP.


HP PayPerPost Christmas digital photography

Throw Anything And Everything In The Salad Salad

Well, we shall admit to a few things about this salad: we are not quite sure what language the word Huzarensla is, it might be a tad bit expensive though you could use left overs, the color may cause you to lose your appetite (unless you like that pinkish red sludge look), and the ingredients are questionable. Ah, but your taste buds will explode with everything good.

This is my Oma's (Grandma's) nothing-is-wasted kind of recipe--an attitude of spending years in a WWII POW camp. Here's Huzarensla (a main course salad).

The ingredients:

1 lb. steak (use your favorite)
1 large onion, diced
1 large can of pineapple chunks
7 eggs, hard-boiled
1/4 C. pineapple juice
4 Tbsp. butter
1 (15oz) can of beets, stringed
1/2 C. sugar
2 (15oz) cans of green beans, cut
Salt and pepper to taste
2 (15oz) cans of carrots, sliced
2 Tbsp. mustard
5 medium dill pickles, sliced
1 C. mayonnaise
vinegar to tast
7 medium potatoes, cooked (cook in its skin, then peel when done. Don't overcook. Cut into small cubed chunks.

Preparation:

Fry steak in large frying pan with some butter. Take out of pan and cut into bite-size pieces (or even smaller). Set aside. Fry the onions in the juices of the fried steak for just about a half a minute. Remove from heat. Add sugar, mayonnaise, eggs (finely crumpled with a fork), salt, pepper, mustard, and vinegar.

In large bowl, place the pineapple chunks with only the 1/4 cup of its juice and add remaining ingredients to the bowl. Mix well. Gently add the sugar/onion mixture and mix well again. Refrigerate overnight. Serve over red romaine lettuce leaves.

Hope you try it. You might be pleasantly surprised. The picture, btw, is my mom and dad. It was taken in New Guinea. If you're interested in more exotic Indonesian recipes you can click on the photograph to check out our family cookbook, Come and Dine.

Indonesian recipes salads cooking family cookbooks

Holiday Fitness

Oh, what have we done? Yes, if one is like the Gatekeeper, one has indulged in too many Christmas delicacies. Thanksgiving might not have helped either. Yet, I am proud to say, I have stayed true to a daily walk, a brisk one I might add. Indeed, there is nothing like a brisk thirty-minute walk every evening after a good meal.

And speaking of meals, I must learn to combine a few good eating habits with my daily routine. Otherwise what would be the use of all that excerise? Yes, surely there are easy diets one could incorporate into one's life.

Just one more thing to mention. The Gatekeeper must find a weight training program since she is the only one protecting the castle. No male keeper in this manor. Strength is what she desires and must have. She is sure to embark on this quest with no excuses.

Advent Basics

This is taken from our church bulletin. It's something that we're starting to appreciate more and more as a Christian church. Hope you enoy this . . .

Advent Christmas


Advent: arrival

Advent is the preparation season for Christmas, just as Lent is the season of preparation for Easter. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Christ, of God becoming human in the person of Jesus Christ to rescue, redeem, and restore fallen humanity. Unlike Easter, whose date changes every year, Christmas is always celebrated on December 25th. The preparation season is Advent, and it is four weeks--or at least four Sundays in length.

This year, the First Sunday of Advent is (was) November 26th. To calculate the beginning of Advent, start at Christmas (December 25th), count back four Sundays (December 24th, December 17th, December 10th, December 8th). This year is the shortest Advent season with Christmas falling on a Monday, making the season 22 days. The longest Advent seasons, like in 2005, are when Christmas falls on a Sunday, making the season 28 days long.

What does it all mean? The premier symbol during Advent is the Advent wreath. It is round, with greenery, and four candles (three purple and one pink). The circle symbolizes God's love, which has no beginning or ending. The greenery, evergreen, is for hope and eternity. The candles represent the four weeks of Advent. The flame is a symbol of the One who is called "the light of the world." We who follow Him "will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12). As we move closer to the day when we'll meet Him--Jesus, there is greater and greater brightness.

Putting into Practice. One candle is lit for each of the Sundays of Advent and, if you desire, a fifth for Christmas Day. On the first Sunday--Hope, only one candle will be lit, then two in this order . . . purple-pink-purple. The third Sunday of Advent is Gaudete Sunday (Latin for 'joy or 'rejoice'), "Rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4). The pink candle is traditionally lit to symbolize God's joy. All the candles are lit for the fourth Sunday which symbolizes God's enduring Love.

For a particular week--for example, week 1, the theme being hope--you could light the candle prior to a particular meal, read a passage of Scripture and pray before the meal reflecting on the theme for that week--week one being the theme of God's hope. Readings from Isaiah, the prophets, and passages concerning John the Baptist, as Christ's heral, play a large part in Advent scripture readings as Christmas approaches.

Making Room for Him. While the theme of Lent is penitential (repentance, sorrow) the themes of Advent are waiting and especially Hope. We are awaiting the birth and coming of the Messiah. We are making room for Him in our lives and preparing to receive Christ into the world and into our hearts. It is also a time of waiting and preparation for Christ's second coming when He will set all things right and, of course, a celebration of His first coming, commemorating His arrival in Bethlehem some 2,000 years ago. This hope is not just a positive outlook on life or wishful thinking. It is belief grounded in the knowledge of God, God's power, and God's goodness, that God is true to His promise to always be with us and only will our good.

Cautionary Note: There is no need to leave the candles lit throughout the day/season. Please take care to extinguish them at the close of your meal, devotions or when leaving your home.

The Naturals

It is indeed an ongoing search for the best natural products here at the Gatekeeper's domain. Father and Mother are advanced in age, still peppy and all that, but beginning to see those days of retirement. It is their cholesterol we are concerned about. You know, that waxy, fatlike substance dwelling in all of our cells. Keeping the cholesterol low would be our goal.

Now I must admit that on any given day one might not know if it is I who takes care of them, or if the Gatekeeper is being taken care of. In any case an all natural remedy called Cholestelow looks like a wonderful find for all.

Father and Mother will be happier still to know that if used over 3 to 5 months, their cholesterol could be completely normalized. Cholestelow is the best all-natural cholesterol remedy on the market today and works fast to normalize that waxy, fat-like substance in your cells.

Cholestelow has been clinically proven to be 99% effective (a nice high rate) in lowering cholesterol levels without any pharmaceutical drugs and avoids their harsh side-effects (most excellent knowledge to know). Well, we shall have reports in the future with results from Cholestelow.

I Live There

I'm visiting Blog Village for a few days. Stroll on over there and read the interview with, your's truly, the Gatekeeper. I must confess, I do love giving interviews. Rumor has it, that I might soon be writing them as well.

It's a great village to meander through. We now have over 200 friendly villagers. A variety of folks but all nice people, I can tell. Add your site and live the good life. See ya there.

Writers and Such

As a writer I make it a point to dish out at least 500 words a day. Sometimes at the end of a week those words actually turn into a nice article or short story. Triond has been a wonderful place to get those articles and stories published. Make sure your work has been edited and is of interest to others. Your writing will get read and Triond, true to their word, will pay you. They don't promise riches but they do get you a few dollars here and there. And . . . if you are consistant, so is the money.

You may also upload your photographs, audio (original music etc.), and videos. I have personally been able to publish my pictures, including some artwork, and also a few of my essays, short stories, many recipes, and a few pages of my ongoing journal. Take a look for yourself right here . . .

A Fantasy Tale From Hell is the first chapter of a three-chapter novella, I guess you could call it, and was published by Triond on AuthorSpot. There's lots of competition, always a good thing, to keep a writer on her toes. But don't forget this site also welcomes photographs, videos and audio. Take a look and get her work published.

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This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. For questions about this blog, please contact gtargirl@aol.com.


My blog, Pieces of Me, accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation.

The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post may not always be identified as paid or sponsored content.

The owner of this blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Even though the owner of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements, we always give our honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the bloggers' own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.

This blog does not contain any content which might present a conflict of interest.

The Princess Is Home

Class is out for at least three weeks. And Princess Sarah is home at last. Of course, finals are over but not with its dramatics. A lack of sleep, way too much stress, not eating and the change of the weather gave her an infection inside her mouth. Memories of USC medical center came back to haunt us. But bless the folks at Biola, who sent her to a doctor who took good care of her, all expenses paid, so to speak. So rest up, my daughter, Christmas will be full of joy this year.

Some Lovin' For the Pooches

The Gatekeeper has two precious little pups. Both will let one know if there is an intruder in or around the castle. Much happiness is granted to each. When one has wounds from battles unknown to the Gatekeeper it is a joy, indeed, to find something so natural as Dermaxol™.

I've read on the pooches' site about pet skin care that it will heal your beloved pet's (this would include small and not-so-small kitties) wounds, sores, cuts, eczema, dry/itchy skin, rashes, and all other skin ailments. It brings much needed relief with natural ingredients (always good) which are proven safe, effective with zero side effects.

So, please do take care of the creatures God gave us. It isn't too much to ask for, I dare say, to keep up with that pet skin care. To their health!

No Christmas Blues

I read somewhere with heavy heart that Christmas can be a horrible time for some. Loneliness sets in and peace is hard to find. How does one sink so deep into depression to think of taking their own lives? I don't know, but I do know this, your life is worth a lot. And though you may be a stranger to me, I ask, what can I do for you?

We celebrate the birth of a child (most likely He was not born in December at all) so that we could let the world know, there is peace. He brought it. There is hope. He has it. Maybe the tragic story of Horatio Spafford could tell it a little better.

Horatio, a well-to-do lawyer in Chicago, had one son and four daughters. His only son died. Then, while on vacation with their mother, on the Villa Du Havre, his four daughters drowned when their boat collided with the English ship, Lochearn. Only his wife survived.

How is it that after all this, he was able to say it is well with my soul? These are his words.

It Is Well with My Soul

When peace, like a river,
attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot,
Thou hast taught me to say,
“It is well, it is well with my soul”

Chorus: It is well (it is well)
with my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul

Though Satan should buffet,
though trials should come,
Let this blessed assurance control,
That Christ has regarded
my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.


My sin, oh the bliss
of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross,
and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!


And Lord haste the day
when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound,
and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.


Words by Horatio Spafford
Music by Philip Bliss

That's the peace, I'm talking about. I hope and pray you find it this Chrismas Season. Hope is yours, peace is yours. The name is Jesus. You might have to say it out loud, for your own sake not His. Because He'll hear even your whisper.

Horatio Spafford Christmas blues hope It Is Well With My Soul peace Jesus

There's Room At The Inn For You

Where is it you would like to go? Yet where would you stay? It must all be organized before your departure. There is room at the Inn, with considerable discounts for you, that's what I've heard when you first make those Hotel Reservations, but do it now, you must. It will be worth your time.

Would you fancy a holiday on the Great Barrier Reef? Or in an Italian villa, perhaps? A vacation package would be a good deal, indeed. A cruise for the family? Bed and Breakfast for romance? It is clear, after all, there is room at the Inn. Though I remind you to gather your info for flights, or any other transportation for your final destinations, and make these quiet and easy Hotel Reservations. Do it for the Gatekeeper who would not steer you wrong.

Some Lovin' For the Brother

If there are two siblings so totally opposite from one another it would be my brother and I (or is that my brother and me?). He's the brilliant one and I just have to be the simplest person in the realms of man.

So after toiling away for one major company for 23 years, baby brother axed himself--it was a question of ethics, I believe. He was pretty high up in said company and family, one and all, were very proud of him . . . and of course still are.

Well, let's see if we can push little brother's new venture in hopes of keeping his castle, and his family clothed and fed. Now, being the complete opposite of Josh (awesome name don't you think?) I must confess that all the techinal stuff following is pretty much jibberish to me.

But please, if you know what it's all about visit him at JMNetworks or pop up in his my space.
And here's the thing he does and we all wish him a blessed venture(especially his wife!) . . .


JM Networks is a highly innovative company designed to provide on-site support and full-system analyses for businesses and home users in need of maximizing the productivity of their business or home network. We specialize in, but are not limited to, the following services. Data Backup/Recovery Performance Management Documentation Network Performance and Optimization Wireless Network Installation/Configuration DSL/Cable Internet Installation/Configuration Security Surveillance/DVR Installation/Configuration Application Development and Computer Training.

Have A Merry Christmas

Keeper of Safety

If there is one thing the Gatekeeper feels strongly about, it would be to keep the castle safe. So I urge you, one and all, to trade some of that fine silver or gold for a trustworthy Security System. Surely there is a handy man you know to install a portable system with 24/7 monitoring. Truly kind sir, the Beagle and the Jack Russell can't protect you as well, though hard they may try. Though this high tech (babble to the Gatekeeper) infrared detection Security System is actually quite pet friendly. This wireless unit, with keychain alarm is most highly recommended for smaller castles (you would call home or an apartment) and, no doubt, for the place you work. The Gatekeeper recommends you take your horse quickly to trading posts such as Home Depot, or Costco, maybe Sears, it's all a little foreign to me. Nonetheless, I believe you know where you must go. Keep wherever you abide safe with this Security System.


wireless security system home safety home depot

TT Ed # 7

Thirteen Reasons We're Having A Good Christmas


1. We're not homeless!

2. We have our own Christmas tree

3. Our Fireplace, always wanted one, finally have one

4. The possibility of snow on our local mountains of Southern Cal

5. Food enough to share with family and friends

6. Wonderful new neighbors

7. Healthy children; my daughter spent December 2005, in clinics and USC Med Ctr.

8. A back yard for our dogs to run around in and stick their noses where they don't belong. But hey, they are dogs after all.

9. My bed!

10. The Christmas cards we're receiving and a wall to stick them on

11. All of God's people

12. All of God's provisions, great and small

13. JESUS!


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Money For College

Now listen up. College is expensive and FAFSA on the Web is the answer to all your financial aid questions. Want the maximum amount of federal aid? Then make sure your student completes and submits the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, FAFSA, for short.

Here's your quick link to a FAFSA form that you can download at FAFSA online. There is a tutorial on the site to walk you through the completion of the FAFSA, step by step they say, and it gives you hints and tips along the way. Good luck and may finding funds for college be worry free.

For A Friend

My Burden and the Birds

Yesterday I decided to have a serious meeting with God. I arranged some extra pillows on my bed, got my Bible, my journal, and then plopped into the fluff. I told God it was over! This anxiety had to go! I didn’t want to be anxious anymore. It was sucking the life out of me. I told him I really wanted to hear from him on this—about how to be rid of my burden of worry

There are so many precarious situations in my family…not to mention stressful eruptions, and sudden changes of direction, my strength was waning. I felt like the character in my son’s computer game who has fought so many battles his health points are almost gone.

So I told God I really needed his help. Could he please speak to me? That’s when God reminded me about the birds. Now I have read about the birds in Matthew 6 many times. But this time the passage really jumped out at me.

Look at the birds of the air.

“Okay Lord, I’ll go outside and look at the birds.”

They do not sow or reap.

“You’re right, Lord. They just swoop down and pluck snacks out of the grass.

They don’t store anything away in barns.

“They certainly don’t seem to be worrying about the future.”

They don’t need to. I take care of them one day at a time.

“Are you saying you will take care of my needs, one day at a time, too?

You are more valuable to me than a bird.

“Thank you. Will you take care of my family’s needs too?"

Yes, and you won’t add a single hour to your life by being anxious.

"I’ll try to be more like the birds."

Good.

"I wish I could fly."

Seek first the kingdom of God and you will fly, just like they do.
(Matthew 6: 26-27;33)

Sharon P.

The Monitors

When did computers pop up in our schools anyhow? Yes, I know . . . me, myself and I might be seriously behind the times here. Computers in our schools? Does anyone have a child entering kindergarden, first grade maybe? They're probably doing homework on the computer already, right? Pretty soon we'll be signing school contracts to make sure that said child will behave on the internet. I'm sure there's a little school computer monitoring going on. And so it should.

Are we invading privacy? I'm thinking . . . not. Personally, I would appreciate knowing who's interacting on the internet with my child. If some stranger is emailing my son or daughter, this blogger wouldn't mind getting a copy of that email. Scary thought--what if said children were to email stranger back? Is there software around that could let us know instantly and record that information? Apparently so . . . computer monitoring sounds like a plan to me.

Captain Underdog or David & Goliath If You Must

So do you know the story? Are you sure? I love getting all the little details. Here it is . . .

So these big guys, we know as the Philistines, gathered their forces for war -- on a hill -- in a place called Judah. Of course it was the Israelites (who set up camp across the valley below, on the other hill) the Philistines wanted to get their hands on . . . again.

Well, the Phili's had a champion warrior who went by the name of Goliath. Okay, now giant might be a little bit of an understatement (think Shaq, add two or three feet and a few more pounds). Goliath stood about 9 feet or so.

What to wear when you're a giant? 1) a coat of scale armor of bronze weighing 125 lbs. 2) a bronze helmet--didn't help much 3) legs must be covered with bronze greaves (sorry, I don't recall what greaves are, but must be heavy) 4) the iron point on spear must weigh 15 lbs.

Goliath was a tease and decided to challenge the Hebrews to a one on one session with him and his javelin, spear and sword. Losing this fight would make you and your armies slaves to the winner. Goliath was a tad bit too confident if you ask me. Nonetheless, for forty days he came out and ranted his usual jibberish. The Israelites were pretty scared of Goliath when he started his ranting and raving, thus no one volunteered to meet him. Goliath must have had fun--the ultimate heckler.

Enter on the fourthieth day, a young shepherd boy who was bringing some loaves of bread and ten different cheeses to his older brothers who were fighting in Saul's army. Shepherd boy's name is David who get's pretty ticked at this big guy for mocking and defying the God of Israel.

Shepherd boy asks around, "Who is this jerk?" David is told the story and then is informed that who ever goes to fight Goliath will be given the King's daughter and be exempt from taxes. Cool.

Big brother, Eliab, gets pretty angry however, and shouts, "David you are so conceited and wicked. You just want to see blood. And what did you do with all your sheep?"

To which David cries, "What did I do now? I can't even speak?" Then, apparently against big brother's wishes, he accepts Goliath challenge. Saul gives him a bunch of armor that David doesn't fit. He takes them off and slips about five small pebbles in his pocket to load his slingshot with. Not to worry, remember that David the teenage shepherd has already killed a lion and a bear with his bare hands. Nine-foot giant should be a breeze.

Of course Goliath is insulted and yells out, "Who is this kid? Am I a dog that you should come with sticks and stones?" Or something like that. Well as the story goes, David only needed one stone to bring down the stunned Phili, but not before Goliath cussed him out in the name of his gods. David's God wins.

So here's the gory part. David takes Goliath's sword and cuts of his head. Eeck, yuck, what the hey? All the Philistines ran for cover but no such luck, most of them died. David kept the head and the weapons (the sword shows up in another story later) and brought them to Jerusalem. That was the beginning of his big wig status.

More Help From PPP

Have you heard? I know you have by now. It's all over the internet already. PayPerPost is for real. Who doesn't love to blog, and on top of that get paid for almost every post? I'd love for everyone to get some of your own blog money and sign up with Pieces of Me. Yes, that would be me. There's a link on my sidebar that you just need to click and be on your merry way.

I haven't been with PayPerPost for very long but have already raked in $100. Every morning when I log in there's more companies searching for bloggers to advertise for them. Writing ads for them, and yes, you can choose which company to write for, is a very easy way to put an extra hundred in your pocket. A friend of mine needed to make $100 more per month. PayPerPost will easily help her meet this goal. She'll sign up through this site and I invite you to join us. It's easy money for doing what you already do--blog. See you there.

blog money PayPerPost friends good money

Finals

Before they get their six-week break the kids at Biola University will have to endure one more week of finals. My daughter sounds very tired and a little distracted, but today she got a little surprise from mom and dad--a twelve-pound bag of candy delivered right to her room!! Okay, thank the Lord for student ministries who also put an apple and an orange in there. Well, that should get her through final week sweetly enough.

This is my public statement to a wonderful daughter who, btw, is the first generation to make it to college: "We are so proud of you! You can do this, you were made for this and you will get through it. Love you and we shall see you this Christmas."

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight (or direct your paths).

Proverbs 3:5,6

Biola education Christmas final week

Gifts and Such

Christmas tree looking good? Is there a star or an angel topping your creation? Do the candy canes and strung pop corn amongst the lights bring that festive feeling home? And oh, that fire in the fireplace is crackling those Christmas sounds. But if you still need a few more packages under the Christmas tree, here's a few more gift ideas.

Visit Optics Planet and get your boys all that fun night vision stuff and rifle scopes. There's FREE shipping on any order over $29.95 so just in case you're looking for digital camera scopes and binoculars don't worry about the extra S/H fee. Great gifts, huge selection and the best products on sale. Go check them out.

The Sandee Bag

Three cheers for CafePress. What would we do without them? Here's the latest of our creations with a little help from my friend, Sandee Foster. Thanks Sandee. Of course, she's been very busy promoting her book, Daddy, Will You Dance with Me? which would make a wonderful Christmas gift. It'll make you cry--I'm just saying . . . get those tissues out. Buy it for Dad, or your husband from his little girl. Stuff it in his Christmas stocking cause every Dad deserves to read this one.

So . . . anyway she (Sandee) graciously gave me a bunch of pictures from her trip (book tour/writer's seminar) in England and I put it all together on this beautiful artsy tote bag. The collage includes photographs of C.S Lewis' grave (yipes), The church window engraved with scenes from his famous Chronicles series, his garden and castles and things, oh my. Thanks for looking.




Christmas Christmas Gifts CafePress Daddy Will You Dance With Me

How A Good Man Went Bad

(Excerpts from I Samuel)

He was a good man, they said, always heard the voice of God and relayed the messages to the people. Apparently he towered over most men; tall, dark and handsome is what the Book says. Needless to say, he was brave as well. They made him king, because they did not trust God to rule them anymore. No, they wanted a mere human to head all of their kingdoms. So God said okay, but you won't like it.

The brave young man, from the least of the least in the land, was very honored and saved their behinds from neighboring nations who planned to turn the king's people into slaves. This victory meant party time--lots of dancing and well, you know.

Then the king disobeyed God and got somewhat greedy. He went to war and kept all the loot for himself. Not to worry, there was a prophet in town who came to set him straight. The king denied he had kept any of the treasure till the sheep gave him away. Bleh!

Then the prophet said, you can stay king for a while, but God is taking away His Good Spirit that was with you and you're going to get a nasty one in return. Never good. No more sleep and the fits of anger didn't help his family life one bit.

However, that wasn't the worst of the news for the brave, good looking king. God had already hand picked another kid to inherit the kingdom. A shepherd boy who played a harp, of all people.

This kid must have been even better looking than the king, braver and definitely stronger. He had already killed a lion and a bear with his bare hands and further more . . . he was a musician. Built-in fans. He couldn't lose and the king became a tad bit jealous. Bitten by the green monster was the last straw and it eventually ruined his life, his kingdom and maybe . . . his chance to get into heaven?






greed King Saul jealousy King David Bible Christian

World Class Traveler

Well, I've been all around the world. I've lost a lot of luggage but made a lot of friends. Yogi Bear was first introduced to me while sailing, on a ship called The Maasdam, from The Netherlands to Australia. Now that was a few harrowing months to write about. I've got a few crazy memories: landing in South Africa to bypass the Middle East conflicts for one, sitting comfortably in a Hong Kong airport listening to people speaking languages I did not even know existed, and once I tried to make the Queen's guard laugh--no luck.

What's your story? Thinking about diving into a new adventure? Need some help? Remember that part of the fun is the trip itself--destination good, the path there even better. So before you wreck your brains about what to do or where to go read about these 50 Travel Sites - courtesy of Luggage Online, which will take you to cultures you might never have heard of. New cultures to visit, there's a journey. Go for it.

A Letter From Jesus

Would you like to have a nice day? I know you could use one. As the season goes on let's get a little reality check. Jesus wrote us a letter and it's posted over at FootStepsOfLove blog.

And by the way (or btw) send a Merry Christmas card to the ACLU. Here's the address if you promise to be nice.

ACLU
125 Broad Street
18th Floor New York, NY 10004

And if you do send them a Merry Christmas card consider sending one to a soldier in Afghanistan and Iraq. Write on!

Life In Reality

Is it just me, or am I the only one who has yet to watch a reality show? And now we're watching them on the internet. Well, at least, I am. After all who wouldn't want to watch Ted "Murphman" Murphy's life unfold on the internet. It's the RockStart Show with HD content, or that's what I think it's in. I'm not that computer savvy yet.

What? You don't know who Ted Murphy is? You lie. Sorry, I know you don't lie. Check out the YouTube vids at my boss' site. Oops, yep, I've said too much. Really though, I can't call him my boss, even though he pays me now and again to say nice things. And for the most part I do say nice things.

I do like the Murphman and his staff. They're awfully funny and they love to love us posties. Sometimes I'm not quite sure if they really exist. They're just too sweet. And they hint that all their images are superimposed in this reality show. Makes one wonder. No, say it's not so.

Honestly it's a fun place to visit and soon you can see them on TV. Oh, no! Another reality show! And if you're a fun, witty and wise blogger they might just take you with them. And did I mention they pay. Yes, they'll be famous (or more famous) soon. So watch this HD content reality show and have fun, they are.

A Christmas Critique

The MINUTES

‘Twas the Critique before Christmas
We couldn’t find the house
but soon the screen door was squeaking
just like a mouse

We sat ‘round the table
and ate snacks with great care
In hopes that Debby, Becki and Brenda
soon would be there!

PRESENT:
Marilyn
Sandee & Granddaughter Jillian
Jane
Pat
Sharon
Debby and Layne
Becki (Debby’s guest)
Brenda


CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
Yvonne
Ruth
Colleen
Deanne
Sharon E.
Debbie W.

Tea anyone? Young Jillian (Sandee’s Granddaughter) brought a wonderful little story about a tea cup. If you get close enough, you might smell the fragrance of a rose. We loved the piece! Thank you Jullian for sharing your writing with us!

Next, we delved into another critique of “Catch”. Everyone had a different helpful comment for Sandee. We even commented on each other’s comments. Sandee is home sorting all of this out.

Brenda has been camping out in the children’s section of the library dreaming up children’s stories. We enjoyed her newest creation. If you’ve ever been a “room-mom” at school, you’ll love this story.

Jane brought a stack of “Highway of Holiness” books and study guides. This book, that Jane worked on, is about the amazing power of prayer. Jane, by the way, is our resident senior editor. Today she exhibited impressive fine motor skills by editing 4 manuscripts with a one and a half inch pencil.

Pat wanted us to look at the chapter titles for her next book. Were they interesting? A resounding yes! We could relate to them all. Our favorite chapter was “Go Crazy”.

Becki, our special guest, wrote an intriguing personal experience piece entitled, “The Dime Penny”. It’s really about people. So it was suggested to change the title to “Dime Penny People”. In the end, we were challenged to love and value people just as God does…even diet coke junkies (you had to be there!).

Marilyn gave some helpful tidbits on submitting manuscripts and also dealing with publishers. The latter was quite aprepoe as Marilyn quite calmly informed us that 1400 of her books have disappeared.

Speaking of disappearing, Debby brought Layne today. But he mysteriously vanished 52 seconds after crossing the dining room. At the end of the meeting, we finally figured out that Debby had ushered him into the “office” to do homework. (with the help of a little TV) We love those kids!

Pat announced she wants to buy a wireless laptop and that got us going about computers. We all feel like we need to sharpen our knowledge on the subject so at the next couple of meetings we will donate a section of time to this end. And by the way, Sharon volunteered Jane’s house for our January 5th meeting. Pat will host our February meeting at her cottage.

We missed all of our missing members. Get better Ruth! To those who are traveling, you are in our prayers. To those who are teaching—keep up the good work! To those who are chasing little ones around the house—don’t give up—you are doing the most important job of all.

By Sharon P.

Have a Merry Christmas!

Christmas Sandra Schoger Foster Writing Writers Group Marilyn Woody Jane Rumph

Translate That

How many languages do you speak? I speak two. My friend speaks a little Russian, learning Chinese and she's working hard on a language all of her own. You know, like Mr. Tolkien, who most likely did not need Translation Services. Nonetheless, if you need your project translated I highly recommend them. It's also a great place to find a job if you truly speak in languages unknown to most of us. Feliz Navidad, Vrolijke Kerstmis, Веселое рождество, and Merry Christmas to all.