Statement on the Enviornment from Western Bishops

The House of Bishops<br />Province VIII<br />of the Episcopal Church<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />April 21, 2009<br />Beloved in Christ,<br />We are writing to each of you about one of the most urgent issues facing our world today: global climate change, a crisis caused by rapid increases in the emissions of global warming gasses such as carbon dioxide. Most leading climate scientists believe that we have a very limited time in which to address this situation effectively. We must act quickly and decisively if we are to avert catastrophic and irreversible changes to life on this planet. Climate change is already affecting people around the world, particularly those living in or near poverty.<br />Our recent meetings at Canterbury with colleagues from across the Anglican Communion at Lambeth have caused us to become more acutely aware of the gravity of the challenge that we face. We know what is ahead if we don’t find a way to change course quickly: more droughts and floods around the world, more severe storms, a rise in infectious diseases, desperate shortages of fresh water, millions of environmental refugees, and, as one study recently reported, a possible sea level rise of seven feet within this century.<br />As Christians, we proclaim that God created the Earth and that God delights in it (“God saw everything that [God] had made, and indeed, it was very good,” Genesis 1:31). God entrusted the Earth to human care, and as faithful stewards of God’s Creation, we need to understand the devastating impacts that global climate change will have and is already having on human communities around the world. As faithful witnesses to the power of the Risen Christ, we need to work together to become healers of God’s Creation and to do everything in our power to reduce the world’s output of greenhouse gas pollution.<br />We ask each of you as members of this province, as dioceses, as family members, neighbors, and citizens to respond to this crisis in ways that bring healing to our Earth and all its creatures. We appeal to you:<br />• As members of a congregation<br />We ask that you establish a faith and environment group in your congregation. We ask you to support it in determining your church’s carbon footprint (your production of greenhouse gases from lights, heat, and other sources) and in completing an energy audit of all your buildings. We ask you to take measures to increase energy efficiency and conservation throughout your church, and to educate each other about sustainable living. We ask that you engage in this work with our young members, those who will live out their lives in the world we leave for them.<br />• As members of a household<br />We ask that you assess your personal and family carbon footprints, and find ways to decrease and offset your greenhouse gas pollution. For instance, where possible, walk rather than drive, or use public transportation. Turn the heat down; avoid or turn up the air conditioner. Re-use, re-cycle, and buy products that are re-cycled. Use compact fluorescent bulbs, and turn off unneeded lights.<br />• As citizens<br />We encourage you to advocate for public policies at local, regional, national, and international levels that serve to decrease global warming emissions, conserve fossil fuels, and build an economy that is based on clean, safe, and renewable energy. We urge you to vote for political candidates who will help our country make a swift transition to clean, safe, and renewable energy. We urge you to support the Millennium Development Goals developed by the United Nations, which include preserving the natural environment as an essential part of relieving human suffering around the world. As Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori commented in her testimony to the U.S. Senate in 2007, “We cannot triumph over global poverty… unless we also address climate change, as the two phenomena are intimately related.”<br />• As Episcopalians preparing for General Convention<br />We urge you to support the <a href="http://www.genesiscovenant.org/">Genesis Covenant</a>, an initiative by which the Episcopal Church will commit to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions from every facility it maintains by a minimum of 50% in ten years (http://genesiscovenant.org). We urge you to encourage delegates not to buy bottled water, but instead to bring metal or ceramic water bottles that can be refilled with tap water.<br />There are numerous resources available to support us. Some dioceses have formed diocesan-level Care for Creation groups, such as the Bishop’s Committee for the Environment in the Diocese of Olympia. <a href="http://www.provinceviii.org/">Province VIII</a> also has a Faith and Environment network that will gladly assist you in identifying which measures to take, and in networking with other congregations and dioceses that want to become better stewards of God’s Creation. (Chris Christensen convenes this network; she can be reached at <a href="mailto:chrischris11@msn.com">chrischris11@msn.com</a>.)<br />The Genesis Covenant website offers a helpful list of theological and practical resources for greening congregations and households, such as <a href="http://genesiscovenant.org/resources.htm#general">David Gershon’s Low Carbon Diet: A 30 Day Program to Lose 5000 Pounds</a> [http://genesiscovenant.org/resources.htm#general]. The website of <a href="http://www.theregenerationproject.org/">The Regeneration Project and Interfaith Power and Light</a> offers a wide range of resources, including an online store for energy-efficient products and a tool for calculating your church’s carbon footprint (http://www.theregenerationproject.org).<br /><br />This is a crucial moment in human history, a time when people of faith have a powerful opportunity to bear witness to hope. As author and environmentalist <a href="http://www.billmckibben.com/">Bill McKibben</a> has observed, this is the kind of time for which the church was born.<br />We ask that you pray about this challenge, that you seek wisdom and guidance for your decisions and responses, and that you trust in God’s goodness and love for each of you.<br />Emboldened by the Spirit given to us by the crucified and risen Christ, we have an opportunity to proclaim: our reverence for the Earth that God has given us to cherish and protect; our commitment to the poor, who are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change; and our concern for future generations, who depend on us to pass on to them a habitable world.<br />With God, In Christ and By the Holy Spirit,<br />The Rt. Rev. Marc Andrus, Bishop of California<br />The Rt. Rev. Barry Beisner, Bishop of Northern<br />The Rt. Rev. Steven Charleston, Suffragan Bishop of California<br />The Rt. Rev. Dan Edwards, Bishop of Nevada<br />The Rt. Rev. Sanford Hampton, Bishop of Oregon<br />The Rt. Rev. Carolyn Irish, Bishop of Utah<br />The Rt. Rev. James Mathes, Bishop of San Diego<br />The Rt. Rev. Mary Gray-Reeves, Bishop of El Camino Real<br />The Rt. Rev. Greg Rickel, Bishop of Olympia<br />The Rt. Rev. Nedi Rivera, Bishop Suffragan, Diocese of Olympia & Bishop of Eastern Oregon<br />The Rt. Rev. Kirk Smith, Bishop of Arizona<br />The Rt. Rev. James E. Waggoner, Bishop of Spokane

Statement on the Enviornment from Western Bishops

The House of Bishops Province VIII of the Episcopal Church April 21, 2009 Beloved in Christ, We are writing to each of you about one of the ...

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FYI!

Hello my favorite blogger buddies!!! Just wanted to write a quick note and let you know I'm still alive! ;) We lost internet at our house. DH is home today hopefully getting us back up and running. So I'm here at work now and had a quick sec to check in! Hopefully I will be able to post tonight! Can't wait to check up on everyone's blogs!! That's all for now!! Ta ta!!

FYI!

Hello my favorite blogger buddies!!! Just wanted to write a quick note and let you know I'm still alive! ;) We lost internet at our hous...

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Life On The Moon

I am reading David Kranes' Low Tide In The Desert, a collection of Nevada short stories out of UNR press. One is "Life On The Moon." It is about a brilliant but sadly deranged college boy from Tonopah. He goes to college back East and meets a girl from the Eastern Seaboard in his freshman year. They fall in love and he calls her Ondine, a reference to a mermaid. He then has to go back home for the summer, where of course no one understands him. In his letters to Ondine, he says he has gone to the moon. I love this passage.<br /><br />"The moon is composed as follows. Sixty percent sandstone. Twentyfive percent sand. Seven percent porous white bones (mostly skulls and spines). Three percent bleached lumber. One percent bomb testing sites. One percent casinos and motels. One percent human beings and lizzards. The texture everywhere is like pumice. The topography is pocked and cratered and uneven. There is no Time here. An early probe tried to bring Time to the moon, but it could not survive. Time died. Its remains are in a museum in Reno. School children go and look through the glass at it and have no comprehension. Time is 97 percent water."<br /><br />Nevada produces some great writers only some of whom are named Laxalt.

Life On The Moon

I am reading David Kranes' Low Tide In The Desert, a collection of Nevada short stories out of UNR press. One is "Life On The Moon....

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Low Sunday In Bullhead City

It was low Sunday at Holy Spirit, Bullhead City, but still a healthy turnout of 34 people including 4 first time visitors and 3 folks to be received. More green shoots than I saw last year on a higher Sunday. On Easter they had 11 children present. Not bad for a congregation that was understandably greying. Bullhead is a retirement Mecca. I met several other people, other than the visitors, who I am quite sure were not there last year. All in all, quite a bit of vitality out there in the Mojave.<br /><br />They were once again quite warm and welcoming, though they do miss Fr. Lionel whenever he is not there and the downside of my annual visit is that they miss their priest who serves at St. Matthew's when I am covering Holy Spirit. Fr. Lionel has served this congregation faithfully and they are flourishing with his care. Fr. Tim Swonger also drives down to Bullhead from Las Vegas once a month. Holy Spirit would be fantastic if they had more support, but they are doing great with what they've got, and they are getting more support than other congregations like Pioche, Tonopah, and Yerrington. We are doing our best with the loaves and fishes in our basket.<br /><br />The stress of the day for that congregation is that the Water Company has retroactively changed them from residential to commercial billing, which will wipe out half their bank account tonight. I talked with them about ways to deal with the Water Company and suggested ways the Dioceese might help if that doesn't work. It's church in the real world. Boilers. Roofs. And utility bills. All the stuff that people can skip by being "spiritual but not religious" -- meaning keeping their faith unsullied by reality. As for me, I'll cast my lot with the real folks at Bullhead trying to be Christains while the Imperial Water Company sends in the lions.<br /><br />One troubling question: I stopped off at Cafe 95 on my way out of town for a caffeine fix for the road. In response to my polite inquiries about her welll-being, the waitress said. "I'm doing alright -- <em>for a Sunday </em>-- not my favorite workday." To which I replied, "I guess you get pretty busy." She said, "Yeah but the problem is customers on Sunday are <em>so rude</em>!" "Why do you suppose that is?" I asked. She said, "I guess they've just gotten yelled at for an hour." Hmmm. Yes, I was in full purple shirted, pectoral cross, backward collar clerical attire. She knew quite well who she was talking to, and thought I needed to know this.<br /><br />I hope our preachers don't yell at people for an hour, but it does make me wonder what kind of mood are our folks in as they go out into the world? How do they treat the world while they are freshly washed in the dew of faith? And what might we need to learn from the Fellowship For Faith In Daily Life? Have you ever been cut off in traffic by a driver with a religous emblem on his or her car? I have. It made me feel irreligious. Are we proclaiming gospel out in the world? Are we empowering each other to proclaim gospel when we gather for worship? When it comes to gospel sharing of God's love, are we doing more harm than good? Are we getting the word out that we do Christainity differently and are we doing it differently enough to make a difference? Just questions to ponder.

Low Sunday In Bullhead City

It was low Sunday at Holy Spirit, Bullhead City, but still a healthy turnout of 34 people including 4 first time visitors and 3 folks to be ...

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Standing Committee At Work

The first 3 hours of Saturday morning were at a Standing Committee meeeting on Skype. I am proud of this group first of all for its sound stewadship of diocesan funds by meeting on line instead of spending the money on travel.<br /><br />I was again struck by how faithful, competent, insightful, and sagacious our leadership is in this Diocese. Not all bishops are so blessed. I am truly grateful.<br /><br />The SC tended to all sorts of business matters like approving a $25,000 loan at 2% to St. Timothy's for a desperately needed heat pump. They approved ordinations and did all the required canonical stuff. They surveyed the doings of the diocese, reveiewed the finances, and did all those things it is so much easier not to think about. I am glad they do.

Standing Committee At Work

The first 3 hours of Saturday morning were at a Standing Committee meeeting on Skype. I am proud of this group first of all for its sound st...

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Day 164 (Friday 4/17)

It's officially the weekend everyone...YAH!!!<br /><br />First of all my camera battery was dead yesterday so I have ZERO food pictures for you guys...but I'll just do a quick list and get on with it!<br /><br />B: english muffn w/cream cheese 2 points<br />L: Smart One's Creamy Rigatoni 6 points<br />S: Club Crackers 3 points<br />S:Lean Pocket & Chicken breast 10 points<br />S: Honeynut Cheerioes 4 points<br /><br />Nothing too exciting!! My day at work was crazy. I was gone most of the morning on tours and then it just flew after that...I couldn't believe I didn't need a snack throughout the day!!<br /><br />After work DH and I didn't have much planned so he made his usual salad and we vegged out on the couch. Once our supper settled I wanted to go for a run AND convinced DH to join me!! It was so fun and so much easier to run with a buddy rather than by myself. We did about 2 1/2 miles. I was so proud of DH for making it that far. I would have keeled over way before we finished if I was him (hasn't exercised much lately).<br /><br />Oh and he did tell me that he has now lost 19 lbs!!! I can't believe it...he is doing so good...I need to get back into that losing mode. I've just been mainting since my Florida trip over a month ago....sigh.<br /><br />So as you can see Friday's foods and happenings weren't too exciting but I had to do my post!<br /><br />Not much planned for the weekend. DH is working today (Saturday) so I plan to clean, shop, run (hopefully a 5K), and who knows what else...maybe tan...pedicure...get my nails filled!!! Crap...that's a lot I need to get going!!! Hope everyone has a SUPER weekend and I'll see you later tonight for my Saturday post.<br /><br />WAIT.....I just thought of something exciting about Friday.....DH sent me a beautiful spring boquet of flowers at work with a card that said "You're the best!"!!! I think he's the best. Once my battery charges I will take a pic and get it posted!! Ok...now I'm really going to head out...lots on the to-do list!! :)

Day 164 (Friday 4/17)

It's officially the weekend everyone...YAH!!! First of all my camera battery was dead yesterday so I have ZERO food pictures for you guy...

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Days 162-163

<p>Happy Friday to everyone! This week has just completely slipped by me! I’m sorry I’ve be slacking in my blogging…I hope you don’t abandon me! :)</p> <p>Wednesday I had good intentions of going to the gym, but didn’t make it. And I didn’t beat myself up over it. </p> <p>Breakfast was a bowl of <strong>grapes</strong> for <strong>1 point</strong>. I have so much fruit in my fridge I figured I need to eat that because it’s not like the oatmeal in my cupboard is going to go bad like all the fruit I have! So be prepared to see lots of fruit in this point!! :) <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3bAgK0Yri5h1x_GTsOQwpB8qSjM6rEpqQQXMtZ83_3MDGdAXf4QpXuAyZcq83PcjpsveT-BOdtp2Jm8Qd4BUuq10p9l08OOw25tsBDq15CajbgX5t75ZGZycuxa5hKLSI44Gfmv-FPrI/s1600-h/DSC02269%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02269" border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxe39p0EyIcCL3tk5VHpWJPbiq-AflYNcC6dUUxBdFxs3nI-bI3NM3Blo36fDwdzn3C4bhn8fMsLGq247F47D2fTNGl9lIkFQVIrtS0YImK5M5ssVehzVtvCyOBbxbPtXhQ_K1xdcwVX_C/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02269" width="365" /></a>           </p> <p>And later on in the morning I had another <strong>1 point</strong> serving of <strong>grapes</strong>. I knew eating only 1 point for breakfast I would need more throughout the morning to keep me satisfied. I just have to say that these are so SUPER delicious grapes…so crisp!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjexQBAMUXuODqVs2hPH7ACc4Gx6dYAW6qU4yeCjMNQnqBse-tQchuJVGG2u717z8BWNdO4rxcETx-rnqelTeBGm-XFq8KJePh1eCHOA1HyO1CXeH3bZs5OXHwdWSw1ytgz4C9Bvzsv_0jm/s1600-h/DSC02269%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02269" border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-m60NbdMkTmu64Mh0o1Jq-TJJ-K6Na5fuJOO_j334bTvtCfRLO1twVc5f6loPjPY0ZNq0ypRbLtb7d3G0-S2cBBHF_JoGSbUMHhSr-oqPWdksegeVDEdtlYbjD8I_dSpC1g6xlMKctTpL/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02269" width="372" /></a></p> <p>I had another morning snack on Wednesday too! My favorite combo of <strong>strawberries</strong>, <strong>yogurt</strong>, and <strong>grape nuts</strong> for <strong>3 points</strong>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxs0_YZ4XAjLUE93RJO3u-cT9YXPcEUvfSaSp3TBW6CyW89TXu1a1PmY0f94zYXiclGBb0zMHoMilF42IKOwf60wd-wsoGlCDhDMqVTm3oLzLw2aT8Wj2YCJ742jEkMbuxB7zzgrdnlVU6/s1600-h/DSC02270%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02270" border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1cacT-hJIa7-Pfx1vIPPIvWBbP5CGsWSWatAAX_igVcizqFIzPeFaRJRoDb7O7CIJV2pTeuLV42bx5zVxIfdA-dG1v8zGHkpUjs3UESprKxknhis3swpD9liNKF23EitHPAjxTEC3GI-/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02270" width="364" /></a></p> <p>I kept lunch light because I knew we were going out in the evening. I had a heaping serving of <strong>honeydew</strong> and <strong>cantaloupe</strong> and <strong>1/2 cup of cottage cheese</strong> for <strong>3 points</strong>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58Bb8qls5v0VChIdlEvlKt1qMJsC3d-2l2wZTnUT1zpWNqycGp1AdUVuaQi0Wrwsk7MTbTAEUQN3JHZJjRlnHUUfBnY8nI-nksaZkHdmAVMLHbi0upFXzz2sIQ0X3fj11B4ZpYDS9VYiS/s1600-h/DSC02271%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02271" border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgFsfiqXtVU6evzyRg0GKDKYxWi1GPd0mpLrojXF3AooWXCnZ6d6q_1y0hZ41eDAP55tclAydOrE9OyyyejNt8E77BGHgoUhn2XbBkEBosVzzGRnle4E-e4ikeBZUgZn4_j7l0gUCPswT/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02271" width="365" /></a></p> <p>I usually do my younger sister’s taxes and for some reason this year I totally put it off till the VERY last minute. I knew I needed to finish them before we went out for the night…doing taxes after a few margaritas….not a good combo! lol So I hurried to get those done and then DH and I headed to our favorite Wednesday night spot! We ended up running into friends, neighbors, AND family while we were there!! I had <strong>two soft shell tacos</strong>, a <strong>few chips & salsa</strong>, <strong>3 margaritas</strong>, and <strong>3 light beers</strong> for WAY too many points! Let’s see…I think it would be around <strong>26 points</strong>! But we had fun!</p> <p>We ended up staying longer than planned and I think we were both <strong>WIRED </strong>when we got home! Didn’t get to bed until after midnight…too late for an old married couple in the middle of the week!</p> <p><strong>WEDNESDAY’S STATS</strong></p> <p>POINTS = 34/23</p> <p>WATER = 72 oz</p> <p>EXERCISE = none</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><font size="5">THURSDAY</font></em></strong></p> <p>I actually felt great Thursday morning. DH didn’t have to work so that made it hard to get out of bed in the morning, but other than that I was great!</p> <p>I started out my morning with more fruit! I had a <strong>banana</strong> on my way to work for <strong>2 points</strong>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_D8suvk3Mt-7flpAzr-j5i332gzuExH-r12mxEYUfyvAfZXTP8W5aTZPCPQd0eiNKW13tbtFgleTI2Ih0PI8L_8Synlc-KZCI3sFuqbl1FTY5hd7ijZ8DDoBMu7OfegTJJZveqeyeAzxb/s1600-h/DSC02272%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02272" border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzTYnon4Zt8YC8BqwfI5Ri-fnuzuc3Hs72TYqaRE4vM2PhoK6mzxMMryeDJTv9z_Et4we6hovu3_hKEoOZq00mzCFX3rqidxcodMeAAV1Eet5QqSMdCHXQuPagY60QSn1OhsYLqXSNk1Pu/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02272" width="365" /></a></p> <p>Later on in the morning I had another fruit…<strong>grapes</strong> this time for <strong>1 point</strong>.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5wmgF9ep_yUvBB_dfn80-d5KLC1l_nUOM3X2LXRlFOWs06sKTuHke7gPhRmcjAmRZlcVM9l4POB3C1e9kkBwbYqFEyAuKuGcf8o5ncu4JGibv44y5JgIv23HdU1uuqKvG5_jTo1pvJh1a/s1600-h/DSC02273%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02273" border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-jhYKhaHG1_pLmrRpJWZWOYix1GgW0kxJ92ux8eKqpREQ7ByE2kYLpJPvxJKm7nfzujMiyYqJkiCwo_0G4w-iC61ynh7alkSNlnNIdtdZ6yUXgwUK9k7wiN1bOSDei52v3dmg2tYAk7Y1/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02273" width="360" /></a></p> <p>And before lunch I mixed up <strong>strawberries</strong>, <strong>yogurt</strong>, and<strong> grape nuts</strong> for <strong>3 points</strong>. I don’t think I will ever get sick of this combo…I hope you guys don’t sick of hearing/seeing it!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdj-JCQ5A4ECjfq6moF7nma1Ja9IXTlAkDhqMVUojqMWmncU3qVhyN6-IpsIbEpSNjjeZJVashROO7OT935t1WLqJmf201chdoJrqmxPTxkIjuOUToIA3b5McUU_nZteu9huvnEY9EDGH/s1600-h/DSC02274%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02274" border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmL0uPLRab7kX70A7RJ9_0FX-mjhsKTNC8g9A87p4OOhxjkFaD9yxj4DREPEuQqWCuSwOU7BTJh85wGg00_y__bGDotedTracQNSRLbn09MlB9LkYO8QW_lHmfuLz6n1ERjyy6yp5jW-D8/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02274" width="355" /></a></p> <p>I headed home for lunch anxious to see DH. I love it when he has days off in the middle of the week and I get to see him on my lunch break! I had something quick, simple, and new! Heather has had these on her blog a time or two and I found a coupon for them so I decided to try them out! It was pretty good. I think next time I might add some more broccoli and chicken and maybe make two meals out of it!. It came out to <strong>5 points</strong> and filled me up great!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk-cXFougxaJEXb-c7yujWV4kUTRM8qTU8zg-qTi8jiBN2o0Q5-IZhw6yOO9Sfkh13Oecxt7ihb2iD0SzS3FMXfP31tiDn2dnGtgdE95p633xZwtVNpehyphenhyphenPH_fg3_Nxnkn6W_3zSeR3xnt/s1600-h/DSC02275%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02275" border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFyb5U-NysP3BJmjpsibnVLI8r7NKcLILN6LcozvBn53G2LSFk22Ff7VCgeWlUUGzQA-pzSCP8O33xcfnk-C9mgB6S8l3iRknF9v-Fh06kwCmhgP51CEJQFGcTcxm-x15jf60VB28Mp5T/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02275" width="364" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9pM0CHuprI5DWW9mY2X5JgnxTYjPPUMUuCS98PdbAelcqKdZjB8_hkr5NTseXxpi8GZinh1wLQflAmBk-BdJjO_pFLAKgFrEFQZmltRyuKPEcwha50bgARL5zzM_6fqP7AJePq4U4YBd/s1600-h/DSC02277%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02277" border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uU8s7FBtTGqMIZ2odCBgSHFq3oHr8wZv92wzgAaGAttcJ5kSSjYlP2IwG-_4s2ObHN6AQEemyS58HmfqeQT4TwdIGTxLEgHAHsKrmzoux0PfAHSwu00TduZDoDtm3kbUiJRyV_0cWPIN/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02277" width="362" /></a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p>After work I hurried home to see what DH wanted to do for the night. And I had completely forgotten about meeting up with a friend who is moving out of town. So I knew I had to get my stuff done and wanted to meet her. So my hope of spending the evening with DH on the couch quickly changed. But that’s ok!</p> <p>I took Abby out on a <strong>2.5 mile run</strong>. She is so funny. I wish I could teach her to pace herself. The first mile she is sprinting and at the end of her leash and by the end of the run she is barely keeping up with me and I had to even slow my pace down! Total with a cool down I got in <strong>30 minutes</strong>. Felt AWESOME!!</p> <p>When I got back DH was making his GIANT salad…it is huge. I should take a picture of it sometime. He puts it in a serving bowl instead of a regular cereal bowl because it could never hold it all!! He is feeling much better…thanks for the well wishes everyone!</p> <p>I decided to head back outside (it was 68 degrees today!!) and get some more raking done. Got another section of the yard done and it’s starting too look much better! We just need to get it greener!! :)</p> <p>After that I cleaned up a bit and headed to one of my favorite Mexican restaurants EVER to meet up with my friend Laura who is moving about 4 hours away. She is so fun…I’m going to miss her. So we, of course, had to have a margarita!! Now these are WAY different than the ones I have at our Wednesday favorite spot…these are BIGGER and WAY more alcohol. Laura ordered the EXTRA large one. And I just stuck with the regular! Here is mine: (I had 2!)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUfK-GhSHqIWpUN9b_soyIY6kbsKUua5KJNZA6PXfeVUJ8uQn-xnbr7wFcPZQJgu-O0LQ0V_Pok1_nKvFxoLdmwX3gP1i1gqs7p-sjp4u7NqnDRll4lrBjMWYSDFClfifa97l3xC9Tu-lb/s1600-h/DSC02279%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02279" border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9OGEZrGnX-jLPTyKP6C8xTk5t0HSZVN0kLXpDStymKouq4ZbaIKfY2DLKrdL4Ls7rpX30xFxd3HX9ZzBW_rbKTbR98C81ZTBQCnxzci7dlClEaQySGJgiAef9rIEu8K5JQ2_-Po61dv8O/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02279" width="269" /></a></p> <p>And here is Laura’s – it’s like the size of her head!! Literally!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWGZcukntMCXXj7wCgTmFz7JPbyql9G-yxtRkMdDPoKZa0TJgJI4MHNHXfc0FvPHHo-k3KFNMyjZ1NhfcGpODPTkvln4q2QOuOYrqzL4upBhiWkjsmFhPyDpwfqzJCqeMys1fBoc9TIUB/s1600-h/DSC02278%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02278" border="0" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiepkkJklZJqomVkkcNtk-7hVn-ctoaDMANbl-1_Vb1h9hB-WMHb-j2SvF8izJWc3l-sfL_vff7lQmJY-_PWQtegwQwZ8rcFyrlnJen30QPQMGmOZqGy4I7any-tzNOn7rHfKV6_iqlV-7/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02278" width="425" /></a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Some of her other friends came to so it was fun to mingle and chat with them. One of them ended up living 3 houses away from me and is a HUGE Iowa Hawkeye fan and we talked Coach bags, jewelry, accessories all night! It was fun!! I think she is my new best friend!! :) lol</p> <p>We all ordered the mini chimi’s…they look like egg rolls, but are mini chimichagas smothered in a white cheese sauce that is TO DIE FOR!!!I have no clue on the points…just too many I know! :) It was a fun night and so great to see Laura before she heads on to her next adventure!</p> <p>I promised DH I wouldn’t have margaritas tonight…2 nights in a row is enough! :) But we’ll see what the night brings! lol</p> <p>Well I need to get to work. It’s visit day today and we have lots of kids coming to campus and I have to give tours. And when I hear that I think **EXERCISE** get to get outside and walk around campus!! WooHoo!!</p> <p>I hope everyone has a SUPER Friday and I hope to “see” you all later tonight for my Friday post! :)</p> <p><strong>THURSDAY’S STATS</strong></p> <p>POINTS = too many to count/23</p> <p>WATER = 72 oz</p> <p>EXERCISE = 30 minute run and 20 min yard work</p>

Days 162-163

Happy Friday to everyone! This week has just completely slipped by me! I’m sorry I’ve be slacking in my blogging…I hope you don’t abandon me...

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Prophet Nathan or Cardinal Richilieu

I spent yesterday morning in league with RESULTS, Bread for the World, and the Soroptomists (4 of us in all) doing MDG advocacy with two of Sentator Reid's aides. Today, I was at a large meeting at Mandalay Bay hosted by Senator Reid to discuss ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009) aka the stimulus package.<br /><br />I am not used to all this political stuff, don't know how to act -- can't tell if I'm supposed to be Nathan or Richilieu. Actually though, the Senator's staff were a class act. They knew their facts -- both the underlying facts of the situations and the political realities of what can and cannot be achieved this year. I felt heard and understood.<br /><br />There were a lot of administation people from various departments and agencies today. It was a bit of information overload. Clearly a shotgun approach to the stimulus. I hope some good will come of it. We have some folks whose lives are severely impacted by this economic crunch. I plan to pass on some of what I heard to folks in the diocese who might be able to make good use of it. I am particularly interested in several programs that make money available to First Nations reservations.

Prophet Nathan or Cardinal Richilieu

I spent yesterday morning in league with RESULTS, Bread for the World, and the Soroptomists (4 of us in all) doing MDG advocacy with two of ...

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West Geauga High School Teacher Recieves National Grant for Wildlife Education Projects

April 9, 2009<br />Submitted by: Bonnie Gruttadauria, Director of Communications, (440) 729-6802<br /> <a href="mailto:bonnie.gruttadauria@westg.org">bonnie.gruttadauria@westg.org</a><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">West Geauga science teacher receives TAPESTRY grant</span></strong><br /><br />West Geauga High School science teacher Michael Sustin was awarded $10,000 last week in grant money from the Toyota TAPESTRY Program for excellence and innovation in science education. The TAPESTRY grant will be used to support a study of bobcat and black bear populations in three northeastern Ohio counties.<br /><br />“Supporting excellent teachers who can excite and energize their students is a great way to make an impact on future generations,” said Michael Rouse, Toyota’s vice president of philanthropy and community affairs. “TAPESTRY's reach over the past 19 years has allowed countless numbers of students to be inspired by the possibilities of science education.”<br /><br />Sustin’s project, The Return of Apex Predators to Northeastern Ohio, proposes to research and document the permanent residency of bobcats and black bears in three Northeastern Ohio counties and investigate methods of managing for them. It will offer students the opportunity to use real scientific inquiry skills and technology to make a difference in statewide management goals and strategies and to raise awareness and respect for successful conservation efforts. Students will interpret topographic maps and Geographic Information System technology to identify and evaluate potential habitat to use in the study. Students will put in place cutting-edge remote sensing and imaging technology to capture visual evidence of the target species without unnecessary human intrusion. Students will then be challenged to investigate, evaluate and select innovative, effective and efficient wildlife and land management strategies that will promote continued success of bobcats in black bears in the study area. Finally, students will be empowered to realize their own efficacy by publishing and presenting their research findings to supporting agencies and in community forums through printed and electronic media.<br /><br />Sponsored by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. and administered by the NSTA, Toyota TAPESTRY is the largest annual K-12 science teacher grant program in the United States. Award-winning projects are selected from three critical areas for today’s youth: environmental science, physical science, and science applications that promote literacy. Fifty grants of up to $10,000 are awarded each year, along with a minimum of 20 grants of up to $2,500 each. In total, Toyota awarded $550,000 in grants to 82 teachers in 2009. More than $8.5 million has been awarded to 1,064 teams of teachers throughout the program’s 19-year history.<br /><br />About Toyota:<br />Toyota (NYSE: TM) established operations in the United States in 1957 and currently operates 10 manufacturing plants. Toyota directly employs over 36,000 in the U.S. and its investment here is currently valued at more than $17 billion, including sales and manufacturing operations, research and development, financial services and design.<br /><br />Toyota is committed to being a good corporate citizen in the communities where it does business and believes in supporting programs with long-term sustainable results. Toyota supports numerous organizations across the country, focusing on education, the environment and safety. Since 1991, Toyota has contributed more than $464 million to philanthropic programs in the U.S. <br /><br />For more information on Toyota's commitment to improving communities nationwide, visit <a href="http://www.toyota.com/community">www.toyota.com/community</a>.<br /><br />About National Science Teachers Association:<br />The Arlington, VA-based National Science Teachers Association is the largest professional organization in the world promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all. NSTA's current membership includes more than 58,000 science teachers, science supervisors, administrators, scientists, business and industry representatives and others involved in science education.

West Geauga High School Teacher Recieves National Grant for Wildlife Education Projects

April 9, 2009 Submitted by: Bonnie Gruttadauria, Director of Communications, (440) 729-6802 bonnie.gruttadauria@wes...

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Days 160-161 (Monday 4/13 & Tuesday 4/14)

<p>Evening everyone! I’m sitting here watching the Biggest Loser. The makeover shows are always fun to watch!!</p> <p>Monday was just a ho hum day. I didn’t get up to work out. Well scratch that…I did get up ‘cause DH had to get up for work and I got up with him and then what did I do…go back to bed! Ggggrrrr!!! And I didn’t do anything yesterday evening either. So I need to get back into my workout routine. </p> <p>Breakfast was back to my usual <strong>oatmeal</strong> with <strong>blueberries</strong> and a <strong>banana</strong> for <strong>4</strong> <strong>points</strong>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzOkejQJUCSN-XVe21c3FvGMhdhGk_1NIc8QytWyGpee_rh2B7g0cXWi9CAbIlgGLHU-eKpPcx2x4z3g6KT5r7XsTgiGQq23gCZrFtvafVWRy7vI9w8wuiByjUlHG8epByUS8Y1Gc0bZ0Z/s1600-h/DSC02260%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02260" border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT9NWLPtErDH-MLo5zdLAt3R4buOzFMILqtT0k5-KV6kMrwqjZvqC8rYop8X-A4JBGmX_BDFwWGVXamyUwrH93eAjKvCwVFYLl1HawZVOcF6pq6f_sNrcTLm2OWlneMYJXwIit7Ba_yp06/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02260" width="417" /></a></p> <p>Late morning I had my favorite combo, <strong>strawberries</strong>, <strong>yogurt</strong>, and <strong>grape nuts</strong> for <strong>3 points</strong>. Strawberries were on sale when I got groceries on Saturday and we bought 8 pounds…so you’ll be seeing a BUNCH of them around this week!!! :)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr20caPZJw0V0lLtHttq-iigE46dWs3_oKAweCU7jP7Js4ZO7la0WWJCPZrpqVncPj0_I8GGQh4wboixEKgWJT9qoJAhVRR3nz6DBVT_OmGQycq4kEfjmoCj1CCpRdSOak-yI66GEZxg9a/s1600-h/DSC02261%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02261" border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgag5pdQ9B3SOvp-92ug5rVDYCLhzNxyMJmpgvbOWcdLE-tr3xhTQBtSt7GkoyCzoZnIP65j65n79bVF7P3HYGO1SJIsDx0Hp3CWzV-YeR_IscteNedHmzur9vvbCyuSeM2KR4PRfLNVJHF/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02261" width="416" /></a></p> <p>Lunch on Monday I was trying to get some almost empty containers cleaned out. I finished up the last <strong>hot dog</strong>, some <strong>melon</strong>, and <strong>broccoli & cauliflower w/cheese</strong> for <strong>4 points</strong>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB94c6L6oeVcSdWjtV0AxqYAHFF2lkf1yPcqg663ZiWMFe-AmuQkP3ey4DvGJ6X4NzbBsZt1XWVKFZ5CZNiYwbl7ptU_M2AT1fzt20Um9FcOHpxOq_A-ibojv70qJXQtT4Rvxx7j81fTH0/s1600-h/DSC02262%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02262" border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0CoXWjNWEOHncYaR-aGkX_k84PwAsZP1svnNUcMNO0oU1gJcsw8APIkekaSIpisq_uE1XtxgCPH3qsWc-jDtZbDQHwkmA0lNi5FgpcXUldOBV0ArzCzOQl0y9eSQMnxi-gfbyef6ObOn/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02262" width="419" /></a></p> <p>And of course I had to have a desert! I grabbed a <strong>ww ice cream sandwich</strong> to snack on the way back to work for <strong>2 points</strong>. I picked these up at Target on Saturday…they were on clearance…only $2 for a the whole box of them!! Sweet deal!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSPLPNegCJEUwxn7iT1LIqTBXCexAtkX829VfW028XTfWXjY8WPrQY7yXSb0x80gdV9UdARPizg0XGunq2Vg1ov6-zj_-hKcMSmIs-eh0759ej4l_OjfLynCodN04xFT_xqAX7_kUkbpr/s1600-h/DSC02263%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02263" border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBT32F4AWWhJHLAgZzO-kLuCVLSCHD4Ur8cR4DK8Lm1DKeP_D1TgWu2IynIeTU4yWTS69o0-MGuj_iVFVVJ6fUZqFw8j6tt57lAKSodOPVMZZ3tib7muWigDkAOORmBpNYpB0jdwbLoAd/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02263" width="417" /></a> </p> <p>After work I stopped at Target to get DH some meds for his sore throat he’s been having. Since he wasn’t feeling well I picked up all his favorites…a frozen pizza, motzerlla sticks, and some ben & jerry’s!! At first he said he was going to make a salad but decided that he was eat the “treats” his nice wifey bought for him! ;) </p> <p>I made <strong>spinach artichoke dip</strong> (one of my favorites!!!) and had some <strong>wheat</strong> <strong>thins</strong> with it for <strong>6 points</strong> total. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5hbzoosxKirmoNgPbsW_iwUTluSJ7RX_j6XCJt7XIEmxTHmCT4fS9_ORA129_BkzmErwN6zbMTPhYwRL7IZph7hQRqfjaWeElQaD3R1rPye7GUuDl9OGBs5ITSWVWgDknIoGweEajbDH/s1600-h/DSC02264%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02264" border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kdbGaFfoKrdmClk29UUi8RwnWezzLgEIrS2d_r_j6XspptVBOFhjvESqJYkQPw57LC2sQpb-LpxgZZte1Pl5cNDXQJ7W1jempBcZOdgCg4hVamjgJD9y0lsn6ZWvGogEPE39rCDq6ijq/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02264" width="418" /></a> </p> <p>And you know this girl couldn’t watch her hubby eat ice cream without having some herself!! lol I bought <strong>Ben & Jerry’s FroYo half baked</strong>!!! OH….MY….GOODNESS…..this was AMAZING!!! It comes out to 4 points a serving and I of course couldn’t stop at one…I had 2 servings for <strong>8 points</strong>. And it was worth EVERY bite!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPhZb-yFqUvlAP9Lk9hLDsb8aTHWwzqX-qAyecKS3x-sHwEbFCGqSV5kkKZiOLjbAoambXmHkGYQ39fuxlcLUPMTyv4z0wJEiC5AC-jCMjQHWPYhaZnEgRzdF8xG8n9QaqWreLoxxBoqN/s1600-h/DSC02265%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02265" border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KSUiCGwxwhCuxLJ6woSbT_3mbwn4Pi00bwFeloiMsw7g3kTSyZRk1CAi3qWiLmBicYMyGUnP02RKWT0Za3q6hWwiPpqVGY3ST0XRvPW8WWgZg94LLj5r5M3N3OToHYpBq9gna2t43Jnu/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02265" width="419" /></a> <strong>MONDAY’S STATS</strong></p> <p>POINTS = 27/23</p> <p>WATER = 72 oz</p> <p>EXERCISE = none </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>TUESDAY</strong></p> <p>Once again I couldn’t get my lead butt outta that nice warm bed! No workout this am….but just wait! DH is working tonight so he got to sleep in and I didn’t want to leave his side! Kelly I think I need to get that alarm clock that you have to chase to shut it off!! lol</p> <p>I headed off to work and was running quite late so I didn’t have time to make my oatmeal. Around 9am I threw together my morning snack for breakfast…the usual <strong>3</strong> <strong>points</strong>! :)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkuXFjKE_cEL_81Fltgd_4kAPB9U-vVYS5E8JZAxYMfEnoOgyPubwGX6dmeOhiIIfk5WmGuVV-HKHgDEi8_rr2IUuz2HJJ8dOdlGmOVL58w4MNhAJ0OsjgHFIJwTIn9a-yoUqRTnNq1I0/s1600-h/DSC02267%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02267" border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNzy6qXI2gjbQBTRNi273zlsSo-BE5znS46sGG_HzHU4s8qnxcV9Ajuvt_BLAUb4VJO0hGTnJdy-BE8Gw2Fy-qtuVu4WLN2bN1pJIFeuru3rRVexYjA7EBXR5aD9ueccfvmkUtm1rpW0U/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02267" width="414" /></a> </p> <p>Throughout the morning I snacked on a few <strong>wheat</strong> <strong>thins</strong> for <strong>3</strong> <strong>points</strong>. Sorry…no picture. </p> <p>DH still wasn’t feeling any better so I got him a dr. appointment and it worked out good ‘cause I had a dentist appointment too so we went together and I took the afternoon off. So we grabbed a quick lunch and got our appointments outta the way. We had some <strong>penne</strong> <strong>pasta</strong> with <strong>marinara</strong> sauce for <strong>5 points</strong>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBjL7-ASZr0FsrixwcEAKNnJm3zE-rB3F-hDOZ6XdV_CkkTdEOyhJdJiLejdHGcWi2aLzwe_6VrEtkQZM9-lhRxm5_YXxXm7tUEVQKpaCscgwy3uZ748QedCstxMCO-y92uuZsRF24X6f/s1600-h/DSC02268%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02268" border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGaHu5hTageGs-GmV1ASWnuaRO1xm4TYXrmhKiu9bWo87JC2GNYpmCCdYiWdtxSPQLO7xkSWG7GoeE-xWg9kNkAZv36_C6hfzkQCQDz2uacAEJykj8hKhy3_uhlxRSQ7EM5h5Yd86oA8WG/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02268" width="418" /></a></p> <p>We had some time to kill after our appointments so we rented “Yes Man” and DH got in some more relaxation time. It was nice to spend some time with my hubbs…I feel so bad for the poor guy, he needs to feel better!</p> <p>When DH went to work I hit the pavement for a <strong>20 minute run</strong>. It felt SO good. The weather here today was AMAZING…over 60 degrees and so sunny!!! Makes me so excited for summer!!!</p> <p>And after my run I grabbed my ww booklet, water bottle, and hit the pavement again…but for a bike ride….to the ww meeting! There is a trail that goes almost right to my meeting location! It took about 20 minutes or so! Wait…that was only one way…..so I got in a <strong>40 minute bike ride</strong>! Felt so good!!</p> <p>I knew I was going to gain at ww…but it was only .4lbs…I was thinking it was going to be 2 lbs…so I was happy with the .4! I hope to have a big loss next week. I need to get my head back in the game. I can’t keep slacking and slipping like I have been the past 2-3 weeks. </p> <p>Got home from the meeting and snacked on some <strong>cool whip</strong> &  <strong>strawberries</strong> and a few <strong>wheat</strong> <strong>thins</strong> for <strong>5</strong> <strong>points</strong>. And I had some time to spare before BL started so I grabbed a rake and worked in the yard for about 30 minutes!! I think I got my exercise in for the day! :)</p> <p>I’m so curious who is going to go home on the BL….we will find out very soon!! </p> <p>Later bloggies!!! </p> <p><strong>TUESDAY’S STATS</strong></p> <p>POINTS = 16/23 (i will pri snack on some fruit before bed to get in some more points)</p> <p>WATER =96 oz</p> <p>EXERCISE = 20 min run, 40 min bike ride, 30 min yard work</p> <p>PS Thank you so much for all of your sweet comments on my new hair!!! You guys are the BEST!!!</p>

Days 160-161 (Monday 4/13 & Tuesday 4/14)

Evening everyone! I’m sitting here watching the Biggest Loser. The makeover shows are always fun to watch!! Monday was just a ho hum day. ...

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Easter Adventures

My Easter began at St. Paul's, Sparks with an eclectic and moving Easter Vigil Service. They do good liturgy there in a church well adorned for the occasion with flowers, streamers, candles, and all the trappings. After the service we had a country hoedown with line dancing an country music kicked off by Toby Keith's "I Love This Bar" -- with lyrics espousing a kind of secular inclusive catholicity. A good time was had by all. St. Paul's is a lively place growing larger and younger these days. That's what happens when you put a good bunch of clergy (Kirk, Chip, and Kathy) together with a good bunch of laity.<br /><br />The next morning was Easter at Pryamid Lake Reservation. Before the early service at Wadsworth, the worship leaders were smudged with sage in the tradional Paiute way of blessing and purifying, comparable to the European use of incense. Ed Ely in Nixon had blessed water from the sacred lake, also using tradional Paiute prayers. We had a huge turnout in Wadworth despite the fact we had fewer than usual baptisms. There were around twice as many people as last year. One of the baptisms was an adult, Norman. He had a broken gas guage on his truck so he ran out of gas on the way to the service but was just barely able to coast to a gas station. Grace abounds, and Norman was determined. Good on him!<br /><br />At Nixon, we had only one baptism so attendance dipped just slightly, but given the low baptisms, it was really an excellent turnout. And we had a fabulous feast aferward.<br /><br />We have a special mission on the Reservation. There are practioners of tradtional Native Spirtuality, and there are Protestants who insist that the Native traditions are pagan evils to be deplored by Chrstians. We are the place where First Nations people can stay true to their culture and the ways of their ancestors and follow the gospel of Christ. The gospel is not about European culture. It is a flower that can grow in different soils. Seeing the gospel in these different contexts reaveals its essence and keeps us from confusing it with the social norms of our own backgrounds.<br /><br />Pryamid Lake Reservation is a place rich in history and tradition. It is also a land with a deep sacredness. I wrote this poem after a solitary visit to the lake during a windstorm.<br /><br />SHELTER<br />The wind,<br />resolute, indomitable,<br />swoops over bare snow mountains<br />down, down onto Pyramid Lake,<br />blue water skidding<br />away from shore, not to.<br />Vapor,<br />windblown mist twin, not spray,<br />races across, above<br />the breakers<br />toward island peaks<br />– how far?<br />I stand,<br />then kneel<br />at the edge,<br />dip my fingers<br />into mysterium tremendum<br />and cross myself with fascinans.<br />Then turn,<br />boots sinking<br />in wet sand,<br />face wind-grit stung,<br />straining toward<br />any shelter<br />I can find<br />from God.

Easter Adventures

My Easter began at St. Paul's, Sparks with an eclectic and moving Easter Vigil Service. They do good liturgy there in a church well ador...

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Day 159 (Sunday 4/12)

<p>When we got home from church on Sunday I told DH..."I just feel so pretty today"! I have new hair, I made it all curly for Easter, wore my size 8 dress, and got lots of compliments from everyone at church. I think it was a good confidence booster because I don't always feel pretty! DH said that I should feel pretty all the time...'cause he says that I am...what a sweetheart! :) </p> <p> <br />We went to my Mom's house for dinner with her and her husband and my sister and her hubby and then my Mom's husband's daughter, her husband, and their absolutely adorable adopted daughter from China!! Her name is Maya, she's three, & is SUPER smart! She was the entertainment for the afternoon. I guess you could call her my step-niece...but we really aren't that close so it doesn't feel like that. But hey, I would claim her! :) <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmsI1V6wOh-e0ggqhTESjfH1Rx2ORqei7wHEB1a37s1hS1RmGcvlXEEebeBBRScGANxEsdytjq039MSaj0jM3CszDEFqzgJGTAVvu7b6xIvmg8DuYotEppmeHqixF4lv9TqFWS0A8tKkdP/s1600-h/DSC02254%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02254" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0KdNJhYAzErzQIDiGNDyUeUcWf3s4uLii3GVwS3gXbEHZwmNIWR0KvruDXMGONPwignx6O8imBs0KtglkAoCQ7pZljwm7r9jly36WRLwIvVcTp5LfidqlqJW3e9mLIM31T0fOyJ34ft_I/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02254" width="400" /></a></p> <p> <br />Ok back to dinner...we had ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, dinner rolls, scalloped corn, jello, homemade applesauce, and green bean casserole. Wow!! It was all SO good! I felt good I didn't stuff myself...just satisfied. And I said no to pie. The only choices were coconut creme and pecan and I'm not a big fan of either one. </p> <p> <br />We spent the afternoon just relaxing in the living room talking, playing with Maya, and taking it easy. DH was not feeling well at all today. I feel bad for him that his one day off work he is sick. :( A few hours after dinner I decided I wanted something else to munch on and I had a small slice of that stinkin pecan pie that I wasn't too fond of. It was just ok and totally not worth it! Sigh...</p> <p>  <br />It was fun to see my Mom and her newly remodeled kitchen, living room, bathroom, and office! Since my sisters (who live out of state) read this blog Mom said I couldn't put pictures up...but trust me...it looks AWESOME!!! Her previous kitchen was SO small and we had to all cram in around this small table and add some tv trays on the side for more space. It was nice to be in her nice formal dining room now and not have to eat while almost sitting on top of each other! Makes me want to have my kitchen re-done! </p> <p> <br />DH and I came home and just chilled the rest of the evening away. He still wasn't feeling well at all so we kept it low key. DH found his Easter basket so I did have some Easter candy...mmm I love chocolate! I finished reading Marley & Me on Saturday so we rented the movie. It was so good...but very sad. I think I liked the book better! <br />While watching the movie I had my favorite combo of strawberries, yogurt, and grape nuts! Mmm!! As you can tell I didn't count my points Sunday...and no exercise either. :( Monday is a new day and I'm going into it full force!! <img alt="DSC02259" border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGW0pRhHdiS4ZLaN5-6utjYkGzZBYaCkbXcuSBYEdb1CVHiT9MpSoHDlagXtPmZ2L86JG5ZLW1fSv7G1_JMmJD8IJfdXnWWxSdQc8jzrcE25-tyxwF2oT4RjAUiKEjpTFwDnCzsj88QI3/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02259" width="412" /></p> <h5> </h5> <h5>  TAG You're It! </h5> <p>I got tagged by Kelly over at “Happy Texan”. Her blog is always full of fun ideas and YUMMY recipes!! And her comments always make me smile!!! ":)</p> <p> <br /><strong>8 Things I'm looking forward to:</strong></p> <ol> <li>hitting goal weight </li> <li>running a 5k this summer</li> <li>my sister coming home for the summer</li> <li>“summer hours” at work</li> <li>hosting my SIL’s bridal shower</li> <li>giving DH his bday present!!</li> <li>Hawkeye football this fall</li> <li>starting a family</li> </ol> <p><strong>8 things I did yesterday:</strong></p> <ol> <li>shopped</li> <li>tanned</li> <li>ate </li> <li>got my hair cut</li> <li>worked out</li> <li>played UNO</li> <li>blogged (for the 1st time in a week!)</li> <li>cried when i finished reading “marley & me” while working out!</li> </ol> <p><strong>8 things I wish I could do:</strong></p> <ol> <li>travel more</li> <li>feel comfortable in a bikini</li> <li>be a stay at home wife (eventually mom!)</li> <li>connect my house to the garage</li> <li>buy a motorcycle</li> <li>see all my sisters more often</li> <li>run a 5K w/o walking</li> <li>get rid of my stinkin’ love handles!!</li> </ol> <p><strong>8 shows I watch:</strong></p> <ol> <li>Biggest Loser </li> <li>Real Housewives of Orange County</li> <li>Jon & Kate +8</li> <li>CSI</li> <li>Criminal Minds </li> <li>Friends</li> <li>The Bachelor </li> <li>HGTV & TLC shows!</li> </ol> <p><strong>8 People I tag: (come on guys, be a good sport and do it) ;-)</strong></p> <ol> <li><strong><a href="http://thresholdofgreatness.wordpress.com/">On The Threshold of Greatness</a></strong></li> <li><strong><a href="http://road2skinny.blogspot.com/">To Being Skinny in my 20’s</a></strong></li> <li><strong><a href="http://simplyfabulousnow.wordpress.com/">Simply Fabulous</a></strong></li> <li><strong><a href="http://kristaskraziness.blogspot.com/">Krista’s Kraziness</a></strong></li> <li><strong><a href="http://karitakingbackcontrol.blogspot.com/">Taking Back Control</a></strong></li> <li><strong><a href="http://aworkingmomsjoy.blogspot.com/">A Working Mom’s Joy</a></strong></li> <li><strong><a href="http://heathersaloser.blogspot.com/">Heather’s a Loser</a></strong></li> <li><strong><a href="http://ajourneytothin.blogspot.com/">A Journey to Thin</a></strong></li> </ol> <p>Tag! You're it! :)</p>

Day 159 (Sunday 4/12)

When we got home from church on Sunday I told DH..."I just feel so pretty today"! I have new hair, I made it all curly for Easter,...

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Day 158 (Saturday 4/11)

<p>Day 2 of three day weekend and I’m loving every single minute of it!! I started out my morning catching up on all of your wonderful blogs!! I just luv my blogger buddies!!</p> <p>After DH went to work I hit the gym for a nice sweat session…got in 45 minutes on the cross ramp and 10 minutes of abs. Afterwards I picked up our weekly loot of groceries…stocked with fresh fruits & veggies for the week! </p> <p>While cleaning and cutting my purchases I snacked on a cup of grapes. They were crisp and delicious for just 1 point!!</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOiYRWyyEf9maGqzrBoyGTg3vRlIYS2E-8ZcpIcGWDNWKsRNAN4Cdb-Csi1q7UPLRF_ZmGZFdMX7vEDC0XsXY9rCkWMvPQ4RkfoI1qd69LCuXVjo1LXlq4UdKlGasKSHeeZd_ebA8V4xyY/s1600-h/DSC02230%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02230" border="0" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSPQwsdJAUsWKE_iGu9Ysb8gn_2o7IP6SRncvODa_fNHMVH2pL6i6ZjG35n329TTgBk_66-RiZNaBl-w028PfGnkBFWZ5m7fo8hUusDVvzTFDoSr4168nOaU_7b_VBRGicWBJboBPucD0Q/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02230" width="448" /></a> </p> <p>By the time I was done with all that it was after 2 and I knew I needed to eat something so I didn’t pig out at the in-laws for supper! So I had some left over grilled chicken and steamed broccoli & cauliflower with cheese for 6 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTsa6XOHFu-n-djrLABe6PnnPkkdYVSihIB2720Br5g7o2jbMMcKaj1Y0p1FtBW-teXW6D0yxhjq01PSgx_ygNBwpm_WQDRCCIZgbGyLkLPFJPa4m_TtuweX6yG4_3wviCnckGk7EFl60/s1600-h/DSC02231%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02231" border="0" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-tkU5icp9j9EyRtPnVDsKaywmYC965nCc4G0xeHjDIX_4AuSPg96xshtv9DHsK0smYKP9N4r47VDYdyWb99FscB5Cu_jHRrSj0Ws9Np56W_wlAAuIl6EtmDNDwx1HtIfuuIvvmbyMsBEl/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02231" width="443" /></a> </p> <p>Then I was off to get my hair cut. I went pretty drastic!! Cut off 10 inches!!! What do you think?</p> <p align="left"><strong>BEFORE</strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhPlRX-X_J2NbXZ5-MRuBD2YtwVZj_FszCa6m_ilio6csS5cMaaTeyp0ChNY9-9-oPPLV6lbOrid6ri_SmcUo799myOC6zOGku4WZJN5uym-mVby3L36RG0EmodXGb2kxg4cGzXh-56Eg/s1600-h/DSC02233%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02233" border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkO_Fj4xp8zu8Im5UCbsq-sk6_1IbCr1lGUzGZUHWt7vkcmkMGeg_gtoPvlp-8t1U6lKcbg6OqozA-z8YhiWCH7kP4Ya2pHW_bL63t4bzwGXcv7-vLt1r-cyDp_1mWiJ7ugHFK1SQzRqs/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02233" width="442" /></a> <strong>AFTER</strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeFH_wGVxn_lvxOklI5lRZrQUCoaY_5uoOgTQLCzak42kbRFS-0IMkEN75gOMU0e5EpGluJRkUw9aYEz4Ag-Huy7F2tE_LUI3z-Abh22u8FQWMUGVz6wA7vJN8qCBuVMXHHs_NPuyQO9K0/s1600-h/DSC02237%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02237" border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih0fZ_U8geh9jkHLUdnPLA4bKKPxzftuv6nJXUnLXunkNv6Y_LmLlC9eb6G47u97rPmJZbsDDaNXDFRwUTQe8vF6fUi22D3jLW4XM3hT4yymXnRrxNa5V0itsGTEIvu1WA7G3-0inn4ByT/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02237" width="450" /></a> </p> <p align="left">When I got home we had to rush off to DH’s parents house for supper. Which happened to be completely NOT point friendly. But I enjoyed myself and didn’t worry about it too much. The only picture I got was when DH took the rotisserie off the grill!! Don’t worry he was just pretending…he didn’t really bite into it! :) We had pork loin, cheesy potatoes, corn, homemade dinner rolls, ice cream and brownies!! YUM!! My MIL is an AMAZING cook!!!<img alt="DSC02239" border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikYhmblhuseHvR7Elxtl9GwcoIhlEHAcnDddOFroD48izItm1V3tMRXklsMZ10bDL49gikvlMy3O2CtW-CHYdChrlDFwxCKHA_OcwPf06_ibCIJj11XRDMkmXd2lOUmw4t8tzoSpcPUUG/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02239" width="448" /></p> <p align="left">We stayed for quite a while into the evening playing games, chatting, and doing a little online shopping for MIL! It was a fun evening!</p> <p align="left">Now it’s Sunday and I am just killing a little time before we head down to my Mom’s house for Easter dinner.</p> <p align="left">Here is a picture we snapped quickly after church! I just love this guy!! Oh and btw, he’s lost 14 pounds!!! Congrats hunnie!!</p> <p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_UcOYP0AvhkcX7FmxTGsgDCFPaxjYfiYfKg4W6d0u3HUKgcP2sFBSfHlOzDkgMm2ZsXVHimy3Wk37UxZUYlxEx6H1N6OdUgCN8APRMvPR8QUz9qUR81tM_AC6Wf_Xs3dqHzgGaSo4mhw/s1600-h/DSC02243%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02243" border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrH4ABXrb7RBXvp4eeL_bgAhfZarXU1lrTpUNcfZ0pqaED0rVHKZEFRTML8wfc03D_i66S-HdqzNsPbocaWQ2hXQUaLTLLF4xEr4JH_HqjsvJHNz6ng_C5A-xEBT_OC7iVOmc0zkTpA0oH/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC02243" width="452" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!!! DON’T EAT TOO MUCH CHOCOLATE!!! :)</p>

Day 158 (Saturday 4/11)

Day 2 of three day weekend and I’m loving every single minute of it!! I started out my morning catching up on all of your wonderful blogs!! ...

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Days 150-157 (Friday 4/3-Friday 4/10)

Hey all my lovely blog buddies!!<br /><br />First of I have to apoligize. I haven't blogged in a WEEK!! Holy cow!! Don't worry nothing bad happened...no earth shattering news and I didn't fall off the wagon. Just didn't blog. Life for some reason has just been really crazy and I'm sorry I've been lazy with my blog. I know it helps me stay on track better 'cause I know I have to report to all of you at the end of the day what I ate/did!<br /><br />I stayed fairly OP the past week. A few slip ups....but hey who doesn't have those?? I feel like I've been more on the maintaining part and not losing. So today...Saturday April 11th is a new day for me. I am going to be more strict with myself and get back to blogging!<br /><br />I did take pictures of the majority of my meals the past week, but I am not going to bore you with those details! I worked out only 4/7 days. Ouch! I want to get back in the exercising mode again too.<br /><br />I need to lose at least 5 more lbs I think to feel more comfortable and determine if that is a good weight for me or if I will still need to lose more. I look at myself and still see "chub" and I know it a whole lot more than 5lbs!!! Do any of you who have met your goal have any advice for me on a "good weight"? I feel good where I'm at...but not 100% happy and that is why I think I want to lose more...sigh I don't know what to do!<br /><br />Oh and my scrapbooking weekend last weekend was fun! We did get snow. But I ended up coming home early so I didn't get stranded there because I got everything I brought scrapbooked so I didn't want to get stuck with nothing to scrap!!<br /><br />Well everyone I am off to catch up with all of your blogs! Hope everyone is enjoying their Easter weekend.

Days 150-157 (Friday 4/3-Friday 4/10)

Hey all my lovely blog buddies!! First of I have to apoligize. I haven't blogged in a WEEK!! Holy cow!! Don't worry nothing bad happ...

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In The Air Again

In a few minutes I head to McCarran to fly North to Reno. This is probably my favorite trip of the year. I am going to celebrate Easter, as generations of Nevada bishops have done, at Pyramid Lake Reservation with the Paiute people. We always have a slew of Baptisms. It is a glorious way to rejoice in Resurrection hope.<br /><br />Before the joy of Easter morning, this year I will spend the Great Easter Vigil with the saints at St. Paul's, Sparks -- a lively and faithful crew of committed Christians, with a dynamic new rector, the Rev. Kirk Woodliff. I also plan to meet with several folks, including a few who are working on grants to help us <em>resurrect</em> a comprehensive program of Christian formation and ministry development in our Diocese.<br /><br />The Spirit is particularly moving in the Reno-Sparks area these days. First, St. Steven's, Reno has opened their doors to Faith Lutheran. They are sharing Holy Week and Easter in the wake of a fire that has caused smoke damage to Faith Lutheran's church building. In Fernley, one of our priests and one candidate for priesthood are working with Pastor Paul Theis to build up the new Lutheran Fellowship there. In Virginia City, the Roman Catholic Church building is out of commission for a year's worth of remodelling, so they are worshiping at St. Paul the Prospector.<br /><br />It isn't about denominations. It's about the gospel. I feel great and our people feel great when we help anyone anywhere share God's love with a world that needs it.<br /><br />Easter blessings to all of you everywhere. The A word is on the tip of my tongue.

In The Air Again

In a few minutes I head to McCarran to fly North to Reno. This is probably my favorite trip of the year. I am going to celebrate Easter, as ...

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Salvation By Grace Through Faith (?)

First, the confession -- this little series of blogs on the process of salvation has been a Lenten Discipline of mine. Holy Week is waning, so I must hop to with my final post.<br /><br />Salvation -- not just forgiveness, but a healing and wholeness -- is a gift, not a wage, not an award, not a personal accomplishment (for if it were, then the whole process of ego-trancendence would clench in a Catch 22) but a gift -- received through "faith."<br /><br />I was on a plane recently sitting beside a woman who was saying how her mother had insisted that certain things must be believed unquestioningly, unthinkingly, because religous teachings are based on "faith" -- meaning blind acceptance of things unevidenced, unreasoned, and not understood. She justifiably objected to such an epistemology.<br /><br />One test of good religion vs bad religion is whether it grows or diminishes its adherents. A religion that shuts down the mind diminishes it adherents. Thankfully, that is not what "faith" has traditionally meant.<br /><br />"Faith" is not an opinion embraced or assent to an intellectual truth claim. Faith is an orientation of the heart toward the ultimate mystery. It is not faith <em>that</em> certain facts are true, but <em>trust in</em> the Giver of grace. Faith is actually the opposite of dogmatism. It may be expressed in formularies but the faith is not in the forumlaries. Faith is in the Giver toward whom the formularies feebly point. (I say this as one who is rabidly committed to the regular recitation of the Ancient Creeds.)<br /><br />Faith is not a closed mind. It is an open heart. Faith is not the opposite of doubt. But faith does insist that when we doubt grace, we doubt our doubt, and so remain open the possibility of miracle and wonder. That openness to possiblity is the open gate <em>through</em> which the grace of salvation passes.

Salvation By Grace Through Faith (?)

First, the confession -- this little series of blogs on the process of salvation has been a Lenten Discipline of mine. Holy Week is waning, ...

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Humanly Engaged Holy Week

Palm Sunday found me at St. Timothy's, Henderson. I feel so welcome there! Their open-hearted hospitaliy must be why they are making such a lovely comeback. After delcining during the national controveries of years gone by, they are now on the way up. New people are joining them. They are a noticeably younger congregation than when I saw them less than a year ago. There are young families, lots of children.<br /><br />I had the joy of confirming two middle school boys. Their parents and grandparents can be justly proud of them. The children's choir joined the adult choir for a fine musical offering. They have a well designed building for worship. I see good things for this parish.<br /><br />Holy Monday evening the Interfaith Coalition for Jobs and Housing held their first town hall meeting. Grace in the Desert was there in force. St. Timothy's was strongly represented. A few folks from Christ Church came. I am grateful for their support of this mission. I gave the invocation and participated one of the small groups.<br /><br />All in all, about 150 people gathered in small groups to tell stories of how the economic crisis has impacted them and those near to them. It was the first time some of the folks had been able to talk about what they are dealing with. A feeling of caring support prevailed. But the goal goes beyond comfort in knowing others are hurting too. The goal is to put a human face on the crisis and do a reality check on the solutions. I hope the silver lining in all this will be to bring the people of this Valley together.<br /><br />Holy Tuesday began bright and early with a peace rally at the Martin Luther King statue. I blessed about 40 peace activists from Nevada Desert Experience and Pace Bene before their long walk to Creech AFB. They are bunch of good hearted folks gathtered around some veteran Franciscans. Utterly uncompromised with the world.

Humanly Engaged Holy Week

Palm Sunday found me at St. Timothy's, Henderson. I feel so welcome there! Their open-hearted hospitaliy must be why they are making suc...

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Consolation & Desolation In The News

Having just finished The Hour I First Believed, a book on the aftemath of Columbine, I am all the more speechless at the killings in Binghamton today. The 14 deaths, the other physical injuries, the PTSD that will afflict survivors -- some for a long, long time -- it is all beyond words.<br /><br />Meanwhile in Fargo, ND, faced with a certain disaster, volunteers flooded in ahead of the water to make and stack 3 million sandbags!! It takes four people to do one sandbag. The spirit of common concern, the self-giving, the for-otherness -- again it is beyond words.<br /><br />Such words as grace and salvation must pertain to these things. Some quality of mercy, some moment so of mutuality to overcome the lethal power of alienation -- grace must flow into the lives and deaths in some salving/healing way. Else I do not know how life is livable. Life is livable even in the face of horrors. That is to me perhaps the most mysterious gift.

Consolation & Desolation In The News

Having just finished The Hour I First Believed, a book on the aftemath of Columbine, I am all the more speechless at the killings in Bingham...

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Day 149 (Thursday 4/3)

Hey everyone! Sorry for my lack of post last night. I needed all the time I could get with DH. I am leaving today (Friday) at 2pm and won't be home till late Sunday night. I'm going to miss him and my lil puppy!<br /><br />I got all my stuff packed and ready to go last night. Only 5 more hours of work and then I'm hitting the road with my sister to go scrapbook for the weekend!!!! I'm super excited!!!<br /><br />Eating wise was ok yesterday. I don't have my camera cord, so I can't upload pictures. But I think I was a fairly OP day. I didn't eat supper, but did have some M&Ms there were supposed to be going in the rice crispie treats (snack to share for the weekend) that I was making but went in my mouth instead!<br /><br />Oh and I got in a workout yesterday...cardio and weight lifting. My friend from work and I both went to the gym...it's fun having a work out buddy. We both agree that we're good for each other 'cause when one wants to quit the other one is always like..."how about a little longer" or "just one more"!<br /><br />So I hope everyone has a great weekend. I won't be posting again until probably Monday night. Oh and keep your fingers crossed for me. We are driving about 2 hours away to scrapbook....and there is a HUGE winter storm predicted for that area on Sunday...hoping I don't get stranded!!<br /><br />Happy weekend everyone!! (And happy scraping to me!!)

Day 149 (Thursday 4/3)

Hey everyone! Sorry for my lack of post last night. I needed all the time I could get with DH. I am leaving today (Friday) at 2pm and won...

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Some Lines On Grace And Salvation

Wendell Berry's book, Given, is a quiet celebration of grace. Hence, the title. Here are a few lines:<br /><br />"There is a place you can go<br />where you are quiet<br />a place of water and the light<br /><br />on the water. Trees are there,<br />leaves, and the light<br />on leaves moved by air. . . .<br /><br />This is the time you'd like to stay.<br />Not a leaf stirs. There is no sound.<br />the fireflies lift light from the ground.<br />You've shed the vanities of when<br />and how and why for now. . . ."<br /><br />Georgia poet, Judson Mitcham, in his book A Little Salvation, writes:<br /><br /> ". . . some days,<br />the simplest things matter,<br />and you are fascinated by water, there at the faucet,<br /><br />watching it flash and break, amazed at being alive,<br />washing your face."<br /><br />The comment on my post about grace quoted Rowan Williams as saying salvation has to do with the experience of being, feeling, and knowing that you are seen another way, knowing you are wanted. It is essential to be seen, and also to see. Wendell Berry and Judson Mitcham see grace and salvation in "the simplest things."<br /><br />Jesus said, "What do you want me to do for you?" "Master," the blind man answered, "I want to see again."

Some Lines On Grace And Salvation

Wendell Berry's book, Given, is a quiet celebration of grace. Hence, the title. Here are a few lines: "There is a place you can go ...

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