I think one purpose of fasting is to seek God's will on certain issues. So, along with that, He seems to be teaching me some things about His will. For example, at church Sunday night, we studied Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mt 26). You get such a sense of Jesus' humanity in that passage as he prays there might be some other way for God's will be to accomplished. But, nevertheless, he prays "no my will, but thine." This evening I was reading in Exodus 5 where the LORD calls Moses to be his representative to Pharaoh. Moses gives every excuse he can thinking of, and when he runs out of excuses he finally says, "please send someone else to do it." Ha! I read that and think, "what a coward!" But... then I realize most of us fall into that same category. God promises to provide all our needs, but somehow when He's calling us to do something we list off every excuse we can think of...
"I'm too busy"
"That doesn't fit into my life"
"I'm too young/too old"
"My friends would think I'm crazy"
"I don't have the qualifications"
"I've/we've never done that before"
"That's impossible"
... and a million more
Finally we plead, "God, PLEASE send someone else to do it." But God doesn't let up. He knows what He's doing. He knows who to send. He knows our backgrounds, our skills, our limitations... He knows it all. And... He still asks of us.
I pray I will be a person who doesn't squirm to find a way out but who courageously steps up, accepts my mission and says, "Here I am, send me."
I love this quote by Dr. George W. Truett, "The know the will of God is the greatest knowledge; to do the will of God is the greatest achievement. The will of God is not always easy, but it is always right."
Amen.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Friend?
I just ran across this poem, and I'm happy to note that I'm not even sure to whom it may have referred...
Friends?
From the first moment you extended your hand to me,
I've wondered what kind of friend you will be.
Maybe just an acquaintance,
someone who might happen to recognize me on the street.
Maybe the casual friend who meets me irregularly for dinner
and occasionally drops me an email to say "hi."
What about that friend who is so close, so deeply involved in my life
that I can't imagine a life apart, until six months later that time comes.
You could be that person.
Or you could be, just possibly, an eternal friend,
one who loves me endlessly,
who despite the time and distance is an intricate part of me.
Only in retrospect will I know who you are.
As for now, I see the possibilities in your eyes.
And I know that you are important, no matter what your role in my life.
For this time, I'm glad to know you.
I've wondered what kind of friend you will be.
Maybe just an acquaintance,
someone who might happen to recognize me on the street.
Maybe the casual friend who meets me irregularly for dinner
and occasionally drops me an email to say "hi."
What about that friend who is so close, so deeply involved in my life
that I can't imagine a life apart, until six months later that time comes.
You could be that person.
Or you could be, just possibly, an eternal friend,
one who loves me endlessly,
who despite the time and distance is an intricate part of me.
Only in retrospect will I know who you are.
As for now, I see the possibilities in your eyes.
And I know that you are important, no matter what your role in my life.
For this time, I'm glad to know you.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
A Call to Die
Our church is committing the next 21 days or so (leading up to Easter) to fast and pray. We're doing a variety of fasts (food, media, etc.). I've elected a sort of "social" fast. I'm going to take some time I would generally spend with friends and take the time to spend in dedicated prayer and Bible study. I'm excited to see what God will teach me and what he may reveal to us corporately and individually.
I've already journaled about a variety of topics and things that God has laid on my heart. And I already have a couple of "to do" items from God... a phone call, a thank you and a challenge to be a better neighbor. (That one may be more difficult for me and will require me to get out of my comfort zone.)
What I've read today that struck me...
From Matthew 15 - "What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean' but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him 'unclean.'" (vs 11) "Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander." (vs. 17-19) (Reminds me of one of my new favorite verses, Matthew 12:34b - "Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.")
Then my prayer in Psalm 19:14, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer."
I've already journaled about a variety of topics and things that God has laid on my heart. And I already have a couple of "to do" items from God... a phone call, a thank you and a challenge to be a better neighbor. (That one may be more difficult for me and will require me to get out of my comfort zone.)
What I've read today that struck me...
From Matthew 15 - "What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean' but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him 'unclean.'" (vs 11) "Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander." (vs. 17-19) (Reminds me of one of my new favorite verses, Matthew 12:34b - "Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.")
Then my prayer in Psalm 19:14, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer."
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Under $50
Latest shopping victories...
Shoes at Dillard's - $21 (original price - $80)
Long-sleeve "tuxedo-style" shirt from The Gap on clearance - $12
Shoes at Dillard's - $21 (original price - $80)
Long-sleeve "tuxedo-style" shirt from The Gap on clearance - $12
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Being Stretched
I should be in bed, but I felt like making a couple of comments on the budgeting front. First of all, I'm pretty proud of myself. I feel like I've always been a pretty good steward of my material resources... more accurately the resources with which God has entrusted to me. But, as I'm currently without a roommate (a state that could be prolonged, given my best prospect just got engaged this past weekend), I thought it wise to tighten the purse strings a bit and rely as little as possible on my "emergency funds" and savings. The two most troublesome areas of spending tend to be eating out and clothing (especially as of late, given the fact that most of my clothes no longer fit). A week and a half ago, I had $3 for about a week's worth of eating out. So, among other things, I had the opportunity to sit and watch my friends eat (quite a learning experience). It was kind of difficult at first. I never realized how humbling that can be. But, even more so, it seemed a great exercise in self-control. I had one friend offer to pay for my meal (which I quickly declined). There has to be an art to refraining from eating out but not allowing others to feel sorry for you. Eating out is such a social thing for me that I find that all very difficult. It really is easier to just whip out the debit card and carry on as per normal... instant gratification of the hunger pains and less socially awkward. All that to say, I made it... five days without so much as a cup of coffee out. :)
Also, I went shopping the other day for some black pants. I didn't find the pants, but I got a black skirt and another (bonus) skirt, which only cost me $5!! It is a freeing feeling to know that I have the money specifically allocated to make purchases like that. I've never worried about being able to afford the clothes I've bought, but I've always had a nagging feeling about whether I should be spending the money. So, that's cool. It was a bit awkward paying with cash, though, in this plastic age.
So... I'm learning some new things. Who said you can't teach an old dog new tricks? ;)
Also, I went shopping the other day for some black pants. I didn't find the pants, but I got a black skirt and another (bonus) skirt, which only cost me $5!! It is a freeing feeling to know that I have the money specifically allocated to make purchases like that. I've never worried about being able to afford the clothes I've bought, but I've always had a nagging feeling about whether I should be spending the money. So, that's cool. It was a bit awkward paying with cash, though, in this plastic age.
So... I'm learning some new things. Who said you can't teach an old dog new tricks? ;)
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Ouch! There's a Fork in my Eye!
It's been kind of a blah day. A friend's father is in the hospital, Heath Ledger died and a friend of mine told me that sometimes I make him want to stick a fork in his eye. So... I've had better. That being said, I did get a couple of looming responsibilities out of the way at work. I finished up our contribution statements (required by the IRS) and printed our W-2/W-3 forms. So, that's a load off. I have plenty of other things to do, but I have most of my big year-end deadline things completed.
I should be in bed, but I don't really feel like sleeping. I guess I could read. I'm reading "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller. It's on my list of books to read before I die, and I have several other friends reading. I would have read it earlier had someone told me how incredibly hilarious it is. :) Here's one of my favorite passages...
"Major Major had been born too late and too mediocre. Some men are born mediocre, some men achieve mediocrity, and some men have mediocrity thrust upon them. With Major Major it had been all three. Even among men lacking all distinction he inevitably stood out as a man lacking more distinction than all the rest, and people who met him were always impressed by how unimpressive he was."
Ha!
In other news, I didn't take much time for lunch today. I called to the restaurant downstairs and ordered a salad to go. When I went down to pick it up, the restaurant was pretty empty except for a few folks sitting here and there around the bar. There was a very nice looking gentleman closest to me when I walked in. He smiled, and I think he was watching me as I looked confused and tried to figure out where to get my salad. Instead of saying anything to him, though, I did the typical Krista "I'm here on a mission to get a salad." For some reason I always operate like that... in and out, head down, very focused on the task at hand. Anyway, he watched me and smiled again as I walked past him on the way out. For the next hour I regretted not saying anything to him... "excuse me, sir, do you know where I would pick up a to-go order?" (Not great, but at least a dialogue.) Or, better yet, I could have dropped something on the way out... let him bound out of his chair to pick it up for me. Maybe he would have offered to carry my heavy salad upstairs for me. Either way, there's always a chance he knows the wait staff and inquired about my name and number (they took my first name and work # for the order). Or, they could have told him, "I think she said she works in the building." But, alas, he never called. I happened to see him leave the building about an hour later. He was probably still wondering about me. :)
I should be in bed, but I don't really feel like sleeping. I guess I could read. I'm reading "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller. It's on my list of books to read before I die, and I have several other friends reading. I would have read it earlier had someone told me how incredibly hilarious it is. :) Here's one of my favorite passages...
"Major Major had been born too late and too mediocre. Some men are born mediocre, some men achieve mediocrity, and some men have mediocrity thrust upon them. With Major Major it had been all three. Even among men lacking all distinction he inevitably stood out as a man lacking more distinction than all the rest, and people who met him were always impressed by how unimpressive he was."
Ha!
In other news, I didn't take much time for lunch today. I called to the restaurant downstairs and ordered a salad to go. When I went down to pick it up, the restaurant was pretty empty except for a few folks sitting here and there around the bar. There was a very nice looking gentleman closest to me when I walked in. He smiled, and I think he was watching me as I looked confused and tried to figure out where to get my salad. Instead of saying anything to him, though, I did the typical Krista "I'm here on a mission to get a salad." For some reason I always operate like that... in and out, head down, very focused on the task at hand. Anyway, he watched me and smiled again as I walked past him on the way out. For the next hour I regretted not saying anything to him... "excuse me, sir, do you know where I would pick up a to-go order?" (Not great, but at least a dialogue.) Or, better yet, I could have dropped something on the way out... let him bound out of his chair to pick it up for me. Maybe he would have offered to carry my heavy salad upstairs for me. Either way, there's always a chance he knows the wait staff and inquired about my name and number (they took my first name and work # for the order). Or, they could have told him, "I think she said she works in the building." But, alas, he never called. I happened to see him leave the building about an hour later. He was probably still wondering about me. :)
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
For the New Year
I'm not a big fan of resolutions. (I did pretty well last year... without any real "resolutions.") That being said, I DO believe in goal-setting. :) (I know, I know... it's all semantics.) At this moment, there are only a few things I feel inspired to work on in 2008...
1) My relationship with Christ - I'm digging back into my One-Year Bible again. I just finished it in October, but I'm hoping not to take four or five years to get through this time. :) Regardless of the Bible reading, I would like to spend more time in prayer and one-on-one time with God this year. Sometimes I'm really bad about not doing that.
2) Budgeting - I need to reassess my financial situation. I'm currently working sans roommate. I've known in my head that it will be difficult for me to stay in the black (not to mention get ahead) without a roommate, and that was confirmed earlier tonight when I was drafting my budget. (YIKES!!!) So, I'm doing fine, and I'm not worried, but I do need to get in gear. I have a lead on a roommate, so I'll keep working on that. I'm also tossing around some other (more drastic) possibilities... selling my car? selling my house? I doubt I'll sell the house, but I'll tell you... after this ice storm, I was reminded of the ease of apartment dwelling... no yard to mow, no leaves to rake, no limbs to clear, no electricians to call, no roof to repair, etc., etc., etc.
3) Relationships - It probably sounds crazy and unrealistic to say that I'd like to get married this year (or at least make some meaningful steps in that direction). It probably also makes me sound either desperate or discontented with my single life. But, that's not really how I feel about it. In fact, I've really enjoyed my single life and all of the opportunities I've had as a single person - traveling, enjoying a variety of roommates, a strenuous career (for a time), lots of fun friendships, freedom in making decisions, and so on. But, sometimes the life of a single person is also a selfish life. I've been reminded of this more and more as I've had roommates the past year and a half, as I stayed with my friend and her family during my power outage and as ten of my family members stayed in my house over Christmas. But, most of all, I just feel ready to share my life with someone else. Now, God may have different plans. (That wouldn't really surprise me, because we're already WAY off course as compared to MY life plan.) So, I'd like to state (for the record) that I want what God wants. So, if it suits His purposes for me to stay single another year (or two, or ten, or fifty), then that's where I want to be. That'll keep me leaning on Him, which is probably reason enough for Him to keep me there. :)
That's probably enough to work on for one year, huh?
HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!! Let me know what YOU have planned for 2008!
Monday, December 31, 2007
2007 In Review
It's the last day of 2007, and what a year!
I made no resolutions for 2007, but I commented to a friend that "I just don't want to be in the same boat next year that I am right now." 2007 was a year dedicated partially to becoming healthy. The most obvious expression of that was some (long overdue) attention to my weight. I had an idea what it would mean to lose some weight, but I expected that to be primarily a physical change. In reality, I think it was even more mental than physical. I never realized how my weight had become a sort of wall for me... keeping me isolated... and keeping others out. I've learned that beauty is an important part of being a woman and that I'm a unique expression of God's beauty. I don't think I was doing a very good job of expressing that before. I'm still working on it, but I feel like I have a lot more to give of myself today than I did a year ago.
I've also been on more dates this year than I probably have all of my years up to now. Now, that's not saying a whole lot, but it has been a fun year in that regard. And, I've learned a few things there, too. I've allowed myself to be more open to possibilities... not so guarded and not so oblivious to the people around me. I've taken more risks, and I've tried not to over analyze every situation. I've focused more on enjoying the moment and not getting so caught up on where things might end up. There's a real freedom in trusting God that whatever happens will be for the best. I can see where worrying about those things has caused considerable havoc in my past relationships. I want to be a person who brings life and freedom to another person... not someone who causes stress and adds pressure where none needs to be. THAT has been a really exciting change!
It's been a year of new friendships, too! A vast majority of the people I'm hanging out with these days were not friends (or at least close friends) a year ago. God's really blessed me with a great gal pal, too! It's so nice to have a friend who understands my life, with all of its idiosyncrasies. He's also blessed me with old friends. Though things have changed fairly radically this year, it's nice have friends who will stick with me... regardless.
I'm sure there are other interesting things to tell, but those are the highlights! In summary, 2007 has been what one might call a banner year for Krista. :)
I made no resolutions for 2007, but I commented to a friend that "I just don't want to be in the same boat next year that I am right now." 2007 was a year dedicated partially to becoming healthy. The most obvious expression of that was some (long overdue) attention to my weight. I had an idea what it would mean to lose some weight, but I expected that to be primarily a physical change. In reality, I think it was even more mental than physical. I never realized how my weight had become a sort of wall for me... keeping me isolated... and keeping others out. I've learned that beauty is an important part of being a woman and that I'm a unique expression of God's beauty. I don't think I was doing a very good job of expressing that before. I'm still working on it, but I feel like I have a lot more to give of myself today than I did a year ago.
I've also been on more dates this year than I probably have all of my years up to now. Now, that's not saying a whole lot, but it has been a fun year in that regard. And, I've learned a few things there, too. I've allowed myself to be more open to possibilities... not so guarded and not so oblivious to the people around me. I've taken more risks, and I've tried not to over analyze every situation. I've focused more on enjoying the moment and not getting so caught up on where things might end up. There's a real freedom in trusting God that whatever happens will be for the best. I can see where worrying about those things has caused considerable havoc in my past relationships. I want to be a person who brings life and freedom to another person... not someone who causes stress and adds pressure where none needs to be. THAT has been a really exciting change!
It's been a year of new friendships, too! A vast majority of the people I'm hanging out with these days were not friends (or at least close friends) a year ago. God's really blessed me with a great gal pal, too! It's so nice to have a friend who understands my life, with all of its idiosyncrasies. He's also blessed me with old friends. Though things have changed fairly radically this year, it's nice have friends who will stick with me... regardless.
I'm sure there are other interesting things to tell, but those are the highlights! In summary, 2007 has been what one might call a banner year for Krista. :)
Saturday, December 22, 2007
A Christmas Miracle!
Well, I can't sleep, so I thought I'd catch up on some overdue blogging. :)
My nerves started wearing thin mid-last week. I was still without electricity and waiting to hear from the electrician who had already been out to my house and had apparently ordered some supplies for the job. Needless to say, I was beginning into the meltdown stage. Thursday was a bit better, and Friday I was determined to sleep in my own home... regardless the electrical situation.
I got home around noon on Friday to find that NO electrician had been to my house. I called a couple of other electricians, but prospects were not looking good to get anyone out to the house until after Christmas. My friends were becoming increasingly aware of my tense emotional state and were kind to offer assistance with generators and limbs. Around 3pm, as I was rolling a generator over from the neighbor's house (the rest of the neighborhood had power by this time), I received a call from one of the electricians I had called around noon. They said they were on their way! I was excited to know they were coming but doubted the possibility of getting the electrical work done AND having PSO come back out to connect me. (I had friends who had to wait the better half of a week just to be reconnected AFTER having the necessary electrical work completed.) But, the electrician went ahead and connected everything so that I had power flowing into the house! YEAH!!! What a blessing!
I talked to my Dad later that day. He said that that morning when he was praying he knew there was no way all the pieces could come together to get electricity by the end of the day, but he prayed anyway... prayed for a miracle... a Christmas miracle, which came true!
So... twelve days without electricity... and I survived, thanks to the generosity of my friends and God's watchful protection.
My nerves started wearing thin mid-last week. I was still without electricity and waiting to hear from the electrician who had already been out to my house and had apparently ordered some supplies for the job. Needless to say, I was beginning into the meltdown stage. Thursday was a bit better, and Friday I was determined to sleep in my own home... regardless the electrical situation.
I got home around noon on Friday to find that NO electrician had been to my house. I called a couple of other electricians, but prospects were not looking good to get anyone out to the house until after Christmas. My friends were becoming increasingly aware of my tense emotional state and were kind to offer assistance with generators and limbs. Around 3pm, as I was rolling a generator over from the neighbor's house (the rest of the neighborhood had power by this time), I received a call from one of the electricians I had called around noon. They said they were on their way! I was excited to know they were coming but doubted the possibility of getting the electrical work done AND having PSO come back out to connect me. (I had friends who had to wait the better half of a week just to be reconnected AFTER having the necessary electrical work completed.) But, the electrician went ahead and connected everything so that I had power flowing into the house! YEAH!!! What a blessing!
I talked to my Dad later that day. He said that that morning when he was praying he knew there was no way all the pieces could come together to get electricity by the end of the day, but he prayed anyway... prayed for a miracle... a Christmas miracle, which came true!
So... twelve days without electricity... and I survived, thanks to the generosity of my friends and God's watchful protection.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Things I Usually Take for Granted...
Heat - if it's a little cool, I usually just crank up the thermostat, add another blanket to the bed or find any number of warmer places to be. This week, I've been cold everywhere I go. I've been wearing long underwear, ski socks, sweaters, a coat and gloves!
Clean clothes/Washer/Dryer - I've been taking a few clothes at a time over to Jessica's house. But every day or two I have to go back by my house to load up again. Jessica at least has power now (off the generator), so I've been able to do a load of laundry. But, I think I'm to the end of my clean underwear, so I suppose I'll be making another trip by the house. (I haven't hit the end of my clean resources there... yet.)
Coffee - Warms drinks are somewhat hard to come by, especially early in the week. A lot of restaurants & coffee shops were closed. Without power it was difficult to make. (Coffee pots aren't always top priority when you're running a generator.) But, my neighbors were kind enough to run an extension cord from their house to mine so I could run my refrigerator. A couple of mornings, I'd run by to check on the house and would unplug the refrigerator long enough to brew a few cups of coffee. Mmmmmmm.
Internet access - I felt somewhat removed from the world. I've been able to check my email from a church I camped at for "work" early in the week and then various friends' computers (here later in the week).
Cell phones - I was a bit nervous on Monday... running low on gas, trapped in a war zone and limited cell phone juice. I've been carrying my charger with me all week with the hopes of finding a live plug here or there for recharging. (Such has fortunately been the case.)
My home/shelter - I've feel a bit nomadic this week. I realize how much I've taken for granted just the simple comfort of having a "home-base." I've felt a bit lost this week... unable to really focus on anything... like a wanderer... drifting from place to place.
Gas - My gas light came on Monday. I determined to fill up on Tuesday, and became a bit concerned with the first gas station I tried was dark and closed up. (I was hoping it was an electricity thing and not a gas shortage!) I did find another place, but the lines were backed up. I patiently waited my turn and mused at the variety of attitudes there... some people very kind and helpful... others angry and easily-agitated.
Okay... more later.
Clean clothes/Washer/Dryer - I've been taking a few clothes at a time over to Jessica's house. But every day or two I have to go back by my house to load up again. Jessica at least has power now (off the generator), so I've been able to do a load of laundry. But, I think I'm to the end of my clean underwear, so I suppose I'll be making another trip by the house. (I haven't hit the end of my clean resources there... yet.)
Coffee - Warms drinks are somewhat hard to come by, especially early in the week. A lot of restaurants & coffee shops were closed. Without power it was difficult to make. (Coffee pots aren't always top priority when you're running a generator.) But, my neighbors were kind enough to run an extension cord from their house to mine so I could run my refrigerator. A couple of mornings, I'd run by to check on the house and would unplug the refrigerator long enough to brew a few cups of coffee. Mmmmmmm.
Internet access - I felt somewhat removed from the world. I've been able to check my email from a church I camped at for "work" early in the week and then various friends' computers (here later in the week).
Cell phones - I was a bit nervous on Monday... running low on gas, trapped in a war zone and limited cell phone juice. I've been carrying my charger with me all week with the hopes of finding a live plug here or there for recharging. (Such has fortunately been the case.)
My home/shelter - I've feel a bit nomadic this week. I realize how much I've taken for granted just the simple comfort of having a "home-base." I've felt a bit lost this week... unable to really focus on anything... like a wanderer... drifting from place to place.
Gas - My gas light came on Monday. I determined to fill up on Tuesday, and became a bit concerned with the first gas station I tried was dark and closed up. (I was hoping it was an electricity thing and not a gas shortage!) I did find another place, but the lines were backed up. I patiently waited my turn and mused at the variety of attitudes there... some people very kind and helpful... others angry and easily-agitated.
Okay... more later.
The Ice Storm of 2007
Well, I figured I'd give everyone an update on my experiences here in Tulsa this past week.
I'm currently sitting at a friend's house, sitting across from another homeless soul.... watching it snow outside... and wondering when life might return to "normal."
Sunday night, December 9th (into Monday morning)
Tulsa was like a war zone. No kidding! The freezing rain began sometime that night, and all through the night I heard crashing limbs, explosions and emergency vehicles. I kept getting up to look out the windows and would see bright orange and turquoise blue flashes in the sky. (I've never seen the sky so brilliantly colored! I maintained power until about 5am Monday morning. I heard a huge explosion, which was obviously our transformer. I looked at my alarm clock... black. I knew at that point that I wouldn't have power any time soon.
I called my Dad (the one person I thought might be awake) and told him of the war zone-like atmosphere in Tulsa. Well, the freezing rain continued through until Monday afternoon/evening, making a bad situation even worse. I heard from several friends Monday morning who were looking for anyone with electricity... making plans already for evening warmth. I had no such place to offer, but we finally found a few folks around who had electricity. (Though some of those who had electricity in the morning were out by night.) I got together with a cousin of mine who had just moved to town. We headed for the warmth of the mall, where I ate two meals that day. He and I went by to check out the status of my office (some lights, limited heat, no internet) and then went back to my house for awhile. We stayed warm by sitting (practically) IN the gas log fireplace. We also rigged up a way to heat water in a metal bowl in order to make hot chocolate. (I have a picture that I can post later.)
I met other friends that night at the mall, and I ended up staying the night w/ my friend Jessica... whose family had no electricity but DID have generator. That's where I've been camped. It's a different group each night, it seems... her Dad was here earlier in the week but left town on Wednesday. Then different friends have crashed with us each night... usually friends who spent the first part of the week in their homes but have since given up the "home-life" in search of some warmth.
I have plenty more to say, but I think I'll add some different posts... to break up the potential monotony for those who have better things to do besides sitting and reading my blog. (I'm guessing those are probably people who have their own sources of electricity!)
I'm currently sitting at a friend's house, sitting across from another homeless soul.... watching it snow outside... and wondering when life might return to "normal."
Sunday night, December 9th (into Monday morning)
Tulsa was like a war zone. No kidding! The freezing rain began sometime that night, and all through the night I heard crashing limbs, explosions and emergency vehicles. I kept getting up to look out the windows and would see bright orange and turquoise blue flashes in the sky. (I've never seen the sky so brilliantly colored! I maintained power until about 5am Monday morning. I heard a huge explosion, which was obviously our transformer. I looked at my alarm clock... black. I knew at that point that I wouldn't have power any time soon.
I called my Dad (the one person I thought might be awake) and told him of the war zone-like atmosphere in Tulsa. Well, the freezing rain continued through until Monday afternoon/evening, making a bad situation even worse. I heard from several friends Monday morning who were looking for anyone with electricity... making plans already for evening warmth. I had no such place to offer, but we finally found a few folks around who had electricity. (Though some of those who had electricity in the morning were out by night.) I got together with a cousin of mine who had just moved to town. We headed for the warmth of the mall, where I ate two meals that day. He and I went by to check out the status of my office (some lights, limited heat, no internet) and then went back to my house for awhile. We stayed warm by sitting (practically) IN the gas log fireplace. We also rigged up a way to heat water in a metal bowl in order to make hot chocolate. (I have a picture that I can post later.)
I met other friends that night at the mall, and I ended up staying the night w/ my friend Jessica... whose family had no electricity but DID have generator. That's where I've been camped. It's a different group each night, it seems... her Dad was here earlier in the week but left town on Wednesday. Then different friends have crashed with us each night... usually friends who spent the first part of the week in their homes but have since given up the "home-life" in search of some warmth.
I have plenty more to say, but I think I'll add some different posts... to break up the potential monotony for those who have better things to do besides sitting and reading my blog. (I'm guessing those are probably people who have their own sources of electricity!)
Television Update
If you read two posts ago, I recently gave my (non-working) television away through Freecycle. As "Amy" was leaving with my television, I asked her to email me and let me know how much it cost to fix. She said, "are you sure you want to know?" I assured her I did... even though I knew it might be painful. (I honestly didn't expect to hear from her.) But, she DID reply and let me know that it cost $70 to fix... something to do with the power switch. Not too bad, but I still don't think I would have spent $70 on a ten-year old TV. :)
This whole episode reminds me of when I was in college. Me and my two roommates (Chelle-belle and Laura) had a huge TV. It stopped working, so we had a smaller TV sitting on top of the large one, which had a sheet thrown over the top of it. When Laura, the owner of the TV, moved out there was some discussion about whether to trash the TV or move it. She decided to keep it and later informed us that it only took $35 to fix = $11.67 a piece. We probably would have gone for that. :)
This whole episode reminds me of when I was in college. Me and my two roommates (Chelle-belle and Laura) had a huge TV. It stopped working, so we had a smaller TV sitting on top of the large one, which had a sheet thrown over the top of it. When Laura, the owner of the TV, moved out there was some discussion about whether to trash the TV or move it. She decided to keep it and later informed us that it only took $35 to fix = $11.67 a piece. We probably would have gone for that. :)
Monday, December 03, 2007
Covenant vs. Convenience
We've been working through a sermon series at church on the Ten Commandments. We're just over half-way through, and this past Sunday night we covered Commandment # 7... "Do not commit adultery." It'd be easy to write that off as only dealing with the married folk, but we talked a lot about how marriage is a covenant - a pledge or binding agreement. It's not meant to be abandoned as soon as the going gets rough, the excitement wears off or "something better" comes along. It's a commitment that requires time, patience, communication and work... lots of work.
Compare this to our culture of quick fixes and self-absorption... fast food, drive-thru cleaners, internet shopping and casual relationships. We tend to take whatever is right in front of us... instead of to wait... even if it's for something better. This is true of married couples as well as single adults. Even in dating, it's easy to settle for the something now instead of relying on the hope of something that God can bless in the future.
I want to be a person who cares enough about myself, my relationship with Christ and the people in my life to avoid the self-centered, instant gratification that so many other people live by. It's not easy, but I think that's a foundation that God can use to build a healthy marriage in the future.
Compare this to our culture of quick fixes and self-absorption... fast food, drive-thru cleaners, internet shopping and casual relationships. We tend to take whatever is right in front of us... instead of to wait... even if it's for something better. This is true of married couples as well as single adults. Even in dating, it's easy to settle for the something now instead of relying on the hope of something that God can bless in the future.
I want to be a person who cares enough about myself, my relationship with Christ and the people in my life to avoid the self-centered, instant gratification that so many other people live by. It's not easy, but I think that's a foundation that God can use to build a healthy marriage in the future.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Freecycle
I had my first experience with Freecycle this week. I didn't post about it, but my television "died" about a month ago. It wouldn't turn on any more. When you pushed the power button, it made this small sound like it was turning on but then wouldn't do anything else. Since it's about ten years old, I didn't want to sink any money into fixing it. My friend, John, was kind enough to give me a TV he wasn't using (or using much?). So, I'm back in business. But... I had a 27" TV taking up space in my house.
Enter Freecycle. It's pretty cool. I knew David had used it before up in Kansas, so I thought I'd give it a shot. I registered w/ the Tulsa group and posted it on Tues/Wed, had a response by Wed and had it picked up Thurs. So, I've determined it's a worthwhile means of getting rid of stuff... especially LARGE stuff that would otherwise cause me headaches. Thanks, Freecycle!
Well... I'm off to bed. I'm supposed to meet friends for an early morning cup o' joe in about six hours.
Enter Freecycle. It's pretty cool. I knew David had used it before up in Kansas, so I thought I'd give it a shot. I registered w/ the Tulsa group and posted it on Tues/Wed, had a response by Wed and had it picked up Thurs. So, I've determined it's a worthwhile means of getting rid of stuff... especially LARGE stuff that would otherwise cause me headaches. Thanks, Freecycle!
Well... I'm off to bed. I'm supposed to meet friends for an early morning cup o' joe in about six hours.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
The Kite Runner
While on vacation, I was able to read "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini. It's an excellent story about friendship, betrayal, regrets and maturing. I wrote down a few of my favorite quotes...
"That's the thing about people who mean everything they say. They think everyone else does too."
"What happens in a few days, sometimes even a single day, can change the course of a whole lifetime."
"My heart was doing pirouettes in my chest."
"A man who has no conscience, no goodness, does not suffer."
If you're looking for something to read, you might want to pick it up. A movie about the book is coming out in November, though we all know the book is (nearly) always better than the movie. :)
"That's the thing about people who mean everything they say. They think everyone else does too."
"What happens in a few days, sometimes even a single day, can change the course of a whole lifetime."
"My heart was doing pirouettes in my chest."
"A man who has no conscience, no goodness, does not suffer."
If you're looking for something to read, you might want to pick it up. A movie about the book is coming out in November, though we all know the book is (nearly) always better than the movie. :)
A Road Trip to South Carolina
A friend pointed out to me today that I've fallen significantly behind in my blogging. (I agree.) So, let me catch you up a bit...
I just got back from vacation. I went to South Carolina with some friends. We took two days to drive out, and the drive was absolutely lovely. It would have been nice to have a bit more time, but as it was we still had time to "stop and smell the roses" so to say. The trees in Alabama hadn't changed colors too much, but the trees/forests in Tennessee and North Carolina were really astounding.
We drove on the Natchez Trace Parkway from Tupelo, Mississippi to Florence, Alabama...
This is a trail we hiked on the Natchez Trace Parkway...
Gorgeous! The Appalachian Mountains!
More scenic highways...
The funniest stories relate to trying to escape all of the National Forests we drove through. We finally passed a sign that said "Welcome to South Carolina." After driving and driving and driving, we hit another sign that said, "Now entering North Carolina"!! The scary part was that we were running low on gas, it was very dark and there didn't seem to be any gas stations anywhere in the forest. Fortunately we found one before we started sputtering. And, we also finally escaped North Carolina. :)
Columbia and Charleston were both a lot of fun. I got to visit my friend, Kate, in Columbia and hang with her. Then we joined up with some other friends in Charleston and did a lot of eating a sightseeing. We went on a not-so-scary ghost tour and also toured the U.S.S. Yorktown, an air craft carrier. Our hotel was lovely, and we were able to hang out there one night around a nice fire pit and just hang out.
We made the drive back in one LONG day. Fortunately we gained two hours (one from the time zone and one from the change from daylight savings)... we slept one and drove one. We left SC around 4am and arrived back in Tulsa about 9pm... only stopping long enough to eat and use the restroom.
But, I'm home... safe and sound! A good time was had by all!
I just got back from vacation. I went to South Carolina with some friends. We took two days to drive out, and the drive was absolutely lovely. It would have been nice to have a bit more time, but as it was we still had time to "stop and smell the roses" so to say. The trees in Alabama hadn't changed colors too much, but the trees/forests in Tennessee and North Carolina were really astounding.
We drove on the Natchez Trace Parkway from Tupelo, Mississippi to Florence, Alabama...
This is a trail we hiked on the Natchez Trace Parkway...
Gorgeous! The Appalachian Mountains!
More scenic highways...
The funniest stories relate to trying to escape all of the National Forests we drove through. We finally passed a sign that said "Welcome to South Carolina." After driving and driving and driving, we hit another sign that said, "Now entering North Carolina"!! The scary part was that we were running low on gas, it was very dark and there didn't seem to be any gas stations anywhere in the forest. Fortunately we found one before we started sputtering. And, we also finally escaped North Carolina. :)
Columbia and Charleston were both a lot of fun. I got to visit my friend, Kate, in Columbia and hang with her. Then we joined up with some other friends in Charleston and did a lot of eating a sightseeing. We went on a not-so-scary ghost tour and also toured the U.S.S. Yorktown, an air craft carrier. Our hotel was lovely, and we were able to hang out there one night around a nice fire pit and just hang out.
We made the drive back in one LONG day. Fortunately we gained two hours (one from the time zone and one from the change from daylight savings)... we slept one and drove one. We left SC around 4am and arrived back in Tulsa about 9pm... only stopping long enough to eat and use the restroom.
But, I'm home... safe and sound! A good time was had by all!
Monday, September 17, 2007
The lies we tell...
A personally-entertaining quote from my current read ("The Eyre Affair" by Jasper Fforde)
[After the main character reveals (lies) to her mother that she has a new boyfriend...]
"This, to my mother, was extremely good news. It had been of considerable anguish to her that I wasn't spending more time with swollen ankles, hemorrhoids and a bad back, popping out grandchildren and naming them after obscure relatives... In all honesty I wasn't against the idea of kids, it was just that I wasn't going to have them on my own."
[After the main character reveals (lies) to her mother that she has a new boyfriend...]
"This, to my mother, was extremely good news. It had been of considerable anguish to her that I wasn't spending more time with swollen ankles, hemorrhoids and a bad back, popping out grandchildren and naming them after obscure relatives... In all honesty I wasn't against the idea of kids, it was just that I wasn't going to have them on my own."
Touché! :)
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Insanity
Well, they say the definition of insanity is trying the same activity over and over but expecting different results. I guess I qualify. I apparently have some messages on facebook but can't seem to log in. So... I guess I should just give up and go to bed, but it's really bugging me and I just keep trying.
Btw, David... noticed you're on FB. I'd add you as a friend... if I could. :) Maybe tomorrow!
Quick updates... life is getting really interesting. I'm spending time with some new people, who keep me well-entertained. I'm going camping this weekend w/ the fam. Should be fun. I'm running again. I'm back up to two miles at a time but am working toward three. Hopefully I'll be there again soon (in the next week or two). Monica, my new roomie, has moved in. It's only been a few days, but so far so good! I can't think of anything else, though I feel there's something on the tip of my fingers...
... oh well... I have an early morning meeting and should be in bed. G'night, y'all.
Btw, David... noticed you're on FB. I'd add you as a friend... if I could. :) Maybe tomorrow!
Quick updates... life is getting really interesting. I'm spending time with some new people, who keep me well-entertained. I'm going camping this weekend w/ the fam. Should be fun. I'm running again. I'm back up to two miles at a time but am working toward three. Hopefully I'll be there again soon (in the next week or two). Monica, my new roomie, has moved in. It's only been a few days, but so far so good! I can't think of anything else, though I feel there's something on the tip of my fingers...
... oh well... I have an early morning meeting and should be in bed. G'night, y'all.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
The Pre-Celebration
It's not quite my b-day, but that didn't stop our small group from celebrating anyway...
Monday, August 06, 2007
Mini Mart
I passed a building today that said "Minute Mart," and it reminded me of the little "mini mart" that used to be at the end of the road from the house where I spent some of the most formative years of my life. I was thinking of that mini mart and thinking of the man who I believe worked there filling gas tanks. His name may have been Dewayne. And then "Dewayne" always reminds me of the punchline of an old knock knock joke... "Hurry up! D'wayne the bathtub, I'm dwowning."
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Opossum
I wrote this poem after another dead animal was found in Matt's yard. It seems he sent (as always) a picture of it along. I'll have to see if I can find that. :) I should also note that the poem was inspired by a few lines from Matt's email, which effectively are the last few lines of the poem.
Opossum
This one died near the hyacinth bush,
Under the colorful crepe myrtle, which has yet to bloom.
I can’t be sure what caused his demise…
Maybe a cardial-infarction?
An advanced case of tail cancer?
Or a broken heart?
Who’s to say?
It was surely a sweet, though possibly short, life.
Let’s hope he hasn’t left behind a family…
Two baby opossums and a loving mate,
Who wonder why he hasn’t returned with dinner.
He met an unfortunate end here in my yard,
Under the crepe myrtle, near the hyacinth bush.
But, I laid him to rest.
Under the stars.
In a dirt hole.
Next to the bird.
And the other bird.
And the rat.
And the squirrel.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
2:07
It's 2:07AM, and all I can say is I'm tired. Tired physically (wanting to sleep) but mostly tired of itching from this darned poison ivy. I've just been laying in bed these past 2-3 hours scratching my arms, legs and anywhere else that happens to itch at the moment. Grrrrrr.
The doctor prescribed me some steroid pills on Monday, but I was hoping by now the itching would have subsided. No luck.
So, since I'm up, I thought I might as well blog. I'm sure there's something I could blog about that you might find interesting, but I'm not quite sure what that would be. Maybe a poem? Maybe a funny story? Maybe just some unintelligible rant?
Life's not too bad right now (save the itching). I'm enjoying some new friendships, planning some trips, doing some new things... trying not to answer all the unknown questions of my life just now. I figure they'll be answered at some point, so I might as well sit back and just enjoy the ride. :) I guess that's all I have to say right now. Say a prayer for me as I return to bed and try to actually sleep!
Good night/morning!
The doctor prescribed me some steroid pills on Monday, but I was hoping by now the itching would have subsided. No luck.
So, since I'm up, I thought I might as well blog. I'm sure there's something I could blog about that you might find interesting, but I'm not quite sure what that would be. Maybe a poem? Maybe a funny story? Maybe just some unintelligible rant?
Life's not too bad right now (save the itching). I'm enjoying some new friendships, planning some trips, doing some new things... trying not to answer all the unknown questions of my life just now. I figure they'll be answered at some point, so I might as well sit back and just enjoy the ride. :) I guess that's all I have to say right now. Say a prayer for me as I return to bed and try to actually sleep!
Good night/morning!
Sunday, July 29, 2007
The Midnight Drags
Sorry for the paucity of email lately. Maybe I've been busy. Or, maybe I just haven't had anything to say. Or, maybe there's been so much to say that I haven't even known where to begin. :) Regardless. Here I am, typing away, doing my best to satisfy the masses...
So, the most immediate thing on my mind is the insane "itchiness" being caused by my most recent run-in with poison ivy. Grrrrr. It's driving me insane. I'm trying to avoid another steroid shot, but I may have to give in and get one tomorrow.
Last night was quite fun. I ran out to Fort Gibson with a friend who has a Jeep. We took the top off, and I got to experience the wind in my hair and the feeling that I could easily fall out onto the highway. It was exhilerating! We didn't have much time there, but caught an amazing sunset and the full moon, which we enjoyed on the drive back.
Then, we met up with a couple of other friends and headed out to the midnight drag races! What a crazy place! Quite an interesting crowd... from the guy with the shirt on that said "I'm a Keeper." to the girl hanging all over the guy right in front of our car as we waited to get in the gates. I think I needed to show a little more clevage to really be "appropriately dressed" for the drag races. (Maybe next time...) There were some pretty crazy cars out there, but I think my favorite was a kind of pale green Chevelle. (Dad... you would've loved it! David, you too! Next time you're in Tulsa, we'll have to go out!)
I'd write more, but I'm about to scratch myself to death. I need some relief!!
So, the most immediate thing on my mind is the insane "itchiness" being caused by my most recent run-in with poison ivy. Grrrrr. It's driving me insane. I'm trying to avoid another steroid shot, but I may have to give in and get one tomorrow.
Last night was quite fun. I ran out to Fort Gibson with a friend who has a Jeep. We took the top off, and I got to experience the wind in my hair and the feeling that I could easily fall out onto the highway. It was exhilerating! We didn't have much time there, but caught an amazing sunset and the full moon, which we enjoyed on the drive back.
Then, we met up with a couple of other friends and headed out to the midnight drag races! What a crazy place! Quite an interesting crowd... from the guy with the shirt on that said "I'm a Keeper." to the girl hanging all over the guy right in front of our car as we waited to get in the gates. I think I needed to show a little more clevage to really be "appropriately dressed" for the drag races. (Maybe next time...) There were some pretty crazy cars out there, but I think my favorite was a kind of pale green Chevelle. (Dad... you would've loved it! David, you too! Next time you're in Tulsa, we'll have to go out!)
I'd write more, but I'm about to scratch myself to death. I need some relief!!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Saturday, June 16, 2007
In Cold Blood
Well, I've finally set to reading an American classic, "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote. It's been on my list of books to read for some time (though I reviewed my list of "books to read before I die" just yesterday and couldn't find it on there). I think my particular interest in the book is the fact that it tells the true story about a cold-blooded murder of an upstanding family in a small Kansas town in late 1959. I seem to remember from my college days that the murderers stopped in Emporia, KS to buy some supplies. Very creepy. Indeed, the book is relatively creepy. I've determined that I can't read it too closely to when I go to bed. And, I also think it's reviving some of the sleeping difficulties I noted right after our break-in last fall. However, I'm curious enough to know what happens to push on through. I like this particular quote, as it reminds me of those nervous nights last fall...
"Imagination, of course, can open any door - turn the key and let terror walk right in."
"Imagination, of course, can open any door - turn the key and let terror walk right in."
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Lessons I Learned from my Deck
My Memorial Day weekend project was to rebuild the deck on the back of my house. When I say "my" project, I really mean my Dad's project. :) Since my Dad's a home builder, he's definitely the expert, but other family members (me and my sister, primarily) aided him as best we could. We didn't get finished, but there was some definite progress made.
There were two concrete steps off the back of my house that provided a considerable amount of work to remove. We rented a jack hammer for a couple of hours and (again, my Dad) chipped away at the steps. I used the jack hammer briefly, but that was mainly "for the experience" (according to my Dad) and "for a good photo opp" (according to me). But, as I was sitting back watching my Dad hammer away, I was saddened just a bit. The deck was pretty much unusable as it was, but even so, those steps have been my friends for the past three years that I've owned my house. I was reminded of the times I sat on that back stoop talking on the phone or just contemplating life. So, though I was excited about the new deck, it was a bit difficult to leave behind those stoops.
It made me think about life a bit... how it's comfortable to hold on to the past, even when I know it keeps me from moving forward. But, sometimes you have to remove the old before the new can take hold.
"God, let me be a person who bravely lets go of those things that keep me from experiencing the newness of your grace and mercy."
There were two concrete steps off the back of my house that provided a considerable amount of work to remove. We rented a jack hammer for a couple of hours and (again, my Dad) chipped away at the steps. I used the jack hammer briefly, but that was mainly "for the experience" (according to my Dad) and "for a good photo opp" (according to me). But, as I was sitting back watching my Dad hammer away, I was saddened just a bit. The deck was pretty much unusable as it was, but even so, those steps have been my friends for the past three years that I've owned my house. I was reminded of the times I sat on that back stoop talking on the phone or just contemplating life. So, though I was excited about the new deck, it was a bit difficult to leave behind those stoops.
It made me think about life a bit... how it's comfortable to hold on to the past, even when I know it keeps me from moving forward. But, sometimes you have to remove the old before the new can take hold.
"God, let me be a person who bravely lets go of those things that keep me from experiencing the newness of your grace and mercy."
Sunday, May 20, 2007
The Miseducation of Krista
Isn't it funny the things God uses to teach us? If you've read my post from April 29th, I've been working on not worrying as much. I've had several situations this past month or so that could have caused me a lot of stress and anxiety, but I've chosen not to get worried or stressed out about them.
One of those is one of the teams I sort of lead at church. It's called "The Crew." Late last month, right after preparing our May schedule, I had three people call and tell me that they were going to be able to help with it any more. Three may not sound like many, but we were already running a fairly tight ship with only about 10 helpers. So, three people, each serving twice a month had a pretty significant impact on the team. That's something I usually would have been really worried about... until I had a chance to find enough helpers and rebuild a schedule for May. However, I decided to trust God to take care of it. And, I knew that (no matter how few helpers we had) week-to-week things would still get done somehow... whether I worried about it or not. So, last week I was telling someone about the three new helpers we've had in May... one new person each week, and it dawned on me that I DID NOT HAVE TO TRACK ANY OF THEM DOWN! I really thought to rebuild the team, I'd have to spend some time on the phone begging for help. But, instead, each of these people either contact me out of the blue or just happened to mention to me that they were looking for additional ways to help out around the church!
What an incredible blessing! All it took was letting go of it and leaving it in God's hands! You thought I would have learned that by now!
"Thank you, Papa!"
One of those is one of the teams I sort of lead at church. It's called "The Crew." Late last month, right after preparing our May schedule, I had three people call and tell me that they were going to be able to help with it any more. Three may not sound like many, but we were already running a fairly tight ship with only about 10 helpers. So, three people, each serving twice a month had a pretty significant impact on the team. That's something I usually would have been really worried about... until I had a chance to find enough helpers and rebuild a schedule for May. However, I decided to trust God to take care of it. And, I knew that (no matter how few helpers we had) week-to-week things would still get done somehow... whether I worried about it or not. So, last week I was telling someone about the three new helpers we've had in May... one new person each week, and it dawned on me that I DID NOT HAVE TO TRACK ANY OF THEM DOWN! I really thought to rebuild the team, I'd have to spend some time on the phone begging for help. But, instead, each of these people either contact me out of the blue or just happened to mention to me that they were looking for additional ways to help out around the church!
What an incredible blessing! All it took was letting go of it and leaving it in God's hands! You thought I would have learned that by now!
"Thank you, Papa!"
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Don't get on my "bed" side!
I drove home tonight after work and lifted my garage door like I always do. Instead of finding the empty garage, I found my bed... perfectly assembled and made up. Hrmmm... that's unusual. I normally sleep in my bedroom. (head scratch) It didn't take me long to realize that my roommate is a traitor and assisted my "friend," Chris, in moving my bed out to the garage. He was in the office this afternoon. When he mentioned that he was going to stop by Blockbuster to rent a movie I owned, I naturally told him I would loan him my copy. (Big mistake.) Truth be told, had my roommate not been home, I probably would have had a temporary lapse of judgement and given him my key. Fortunately she WAS home, so the disruption was limited to the bed.
The whole reason that happened is because several weeks ago I had help moving his scooter into a 20' box truck. That would have merely been funny had not his scooter been stolen before in the past. (I had that piece of information but, personally, still thought it was funny.)
Of course, that was egged on by him hiding my keys in my kitchen cabinets the last time he was over for small group.
And that was retribution for something I can't even remember, though I'm sure whatever that was was retaliation for when he took all of my light bulbs from out of my light fixtures and hid them around my house (everywhere from my sugar canister to my underwear drawer).
I'm sure there are more stories to tell, but... you get the idea. :)
The whole reason that happened is because several weeks ago I had help moving his scooter into a 20' box truck. That would have merely been funny had not his scooter been stolen before in the past. (I had that piece of information but, personally, still thought it was funny.)
Of course, that was egged on by him hiding my keys in my kitchen cabinets the last time he was over for small group.
And that was retribution for something I can't even remember, though I'm sure whatever that was was retaliation for when he took all of my light bulbs from out of my light fixtures and hid them around my house (everywhere from my sugar canister to my underwear drawer).
I'm sure there are more stories to tell, but... you get the idea. :)
Mango-induced rash
A bit of explanation on the last post... I've had a bit of a problem with mango salsa since last summer, though I assumed it was related to the jalapeno or cilantro. Well, after a bit of extensive research this weekend, I think I've linked it back to the mango. That's incredibly disappointing, but I love mango!
But, after eating a whole mango Sunday night, I've developed a poison ivy type rash. I did a bit of research on-line and discovered others with similar experiences...
But, after eating a whole mango Sunday night, I've developed a poison ivy type rash. I did a bit of research on-line and discovered others with similar experiences...
Monday, May 14, 2007
I loved you once...
What a sweet affair... once or twice a year, you and I would share some heavenly moments. I can hardly believe it's over. It's been only 24-hours since you last touched my lips, but I think I shall never forget you. I loved you once, but it's not meant to be. I'm sure I'll see you around, at dinner parties and in the homes of friends. I'll catch a glimpse of you from across the room and remember all that has passed between us. A tear will invade my eye, and I'll be forced to look away. But, I must leave you forever. My health depends on it. Thank you, mango salsa, for the good times. I shall never forget you.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Things to say...
Wow... I've been working for my church for a year now. It doesn't seem like that could be possible. "Happy Anniversary, Me!"
I bought a pair of pants this week in a size smaller than I ever remember wearing!! I'm sure I passed quickly through the size once pre-puberty, but that memory has long escaped my awareness. Regardless, it feels fairly exhilarating. :)
I've been reading "The Ragamuffin Gospel" by Brennan Manning. Great book! I'll have to share more thoughts/quotes from the book at a later time.
I took advantage of Tulsa's public transportation for the first time last Saturday. There's a Tulsa Transit bus stop two blocks from my house. Who knew?! It was an enlightening experience. I've only really used public transportation in populated US cities and foreign countries, so it brought a more urban-feel right to my doorstep (or at least as close as two blocks away). I encourage you all to check it out!
I don't know what else to tell you, other than... I'm going to bed here shortly. So, goodnight, friends!
I bought a pair of pants this week in a size smaller than I ever remember wearing!! I'm sure I passed quickly through the size once pre-puberty, but that memory has long escaped my awareness. Regardless, it feels fairly exhilarating. :)
I've been reading "The Ragamuffin Gospel" by Brennan Manning. Great book! I'll have to share more thoughts/quotes from the book at a later time.
I took advantage of Tulsa's public transportation for the first time last Saturday. There's a Tulsa Transit bus stop two blocks from my house. Who knew?! It was an enlightening experience. I've only really used public transportation in populated US cities and foreign countries, so it brought a more urban-feel right to my doorstep (or at least as close as two blocks away). I encourage you all to check it out!
I don't know what else to tell you, other than... I'm going to bed here shortly. So, goodnight, friends!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Funny...
... I ran across this quote by Groucho Marx tonight...
"It isn't necessary to have relatives in Kansas City in order to be unhappy."
"It isn't necessary to have relatives in Kansas City in order to be unhappy."
Sunday, April 29, 2007
My Confession
Well, I've been blog lagging... "blagging." It's not that I haven't thought about blogging. I just haven't gotten it done. I would say things have been busy, but I don't know that that's true. So, I guess I just haven't taken the time to do it.
The Holy Spirit has been revealing some sin in my life. It's the sin that rips away at joy and peace... worry and fear. I've never really identified those as sins before, but so many of the scriptures related to the topic say, "Do not worry" (Mt 6) and "Do not be anxious" (Phil 4:6), etc. They don't read that much differently from the Ten Commandments... "You shall not..." But, I've never read them that way. I always read them more like, "when you're worried...." But, it's obviously something I struggle with, because all of my favorite verses in the Bible deal with that topic.
But, why is that such a big deal? Well, I would never consciously say (or really even think), "God, I don't trust you," or "God, I don't believe you're in control here," or "God, I don't think you have my best in mind." However, that has to be the ultimate root of my worry/anxiety.
So, I'm laying it to rest. I'm not saying I'll never be anxious or worry again. (I wish that were the case, yet I know myself better than that.) But, now that I I've identified it for what it really is... the willful act of doubting God... I think I won't hold on to it as long. But, for good measure, I ought to ask for your help. When you see me getting stressed and worried about something, gently remind me who is in control. :) I really do trust God, so I might as well act like I believe that!
So, peace and joy to each of you. Good night!
The Holy Spirit has been revealing some sin in my life. It's the sin that rips away at joy and peace... worry and fear. I've never really identified those as sins before, but so many of the scriptures related to the topic say, "Do not worry" (Mt 6) and "Do not be anxious" (Phil 4:6), etc. They don't read that much differently from the Ten Commandments... "You shall not..." But, I've never read them that way. I always read them more like, "when you're worried...." But, it's obviously something I struggle with, because all of my favorite verses in the Bible deal with that topic.
But, why is that such a big deal? Well, I would never consciously say (or really even think), "God, I don't trust you," or "God, I don't believe you're in control here," or "God, I don't think you have my best in mind." However, that has to be the ultimate root of my worry/anxiety.
So, I'm laying it to rest. I'm not saying I'll never be anxious or worry again. (I wish that were the case, yet I know myself better than that.) But, now that I I've identified it for what it really is... the willful act of doubting God... I think I won't hold on to it as long. But, for good measure, I ought to ask for your help. When you see me getting stressed and worried about something, gently remind me who is in control. :) I really do trust God, so I might as well act like I believe that!
So, peace and joy to each of you. Good night!
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Jump the Shark
"Jump the shark" is my new favorite phrase, so I'm going to attempt to make it popular among my friends and family. Check out the definition in the Urban Dictionary.
So, my blog may have just "jumped the shark." But... I hope not. Because how else will I help get that phrase into wider circulation? :)
Hope everyone's doing well. I have more to say, but I'll save it for another day.
G'night!
So, my blog may have just "jumped the shark." But... I hope not. Because how else will I help get that phrase into wider circulation? :)
Hope everyone's doing well. I have more to say, but I'll save it for another day.
G'night!
Monday, April 09, 2007
Just some of the girls!!
Someone will have to send me some pics of Avery. (I had to lift these from John's blog!)
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Monday, April 02, 2007
Signs of a Long & Painful Summer...
I mowed the lawn for the first time (in 2007) this afternoon. It's been needing it for a week or two, but I just couldn't bear the thought of beginning my summer mowing in March. :( I clearly remembered hating it from the past two summers, but today I was reminded just how much I hate it. Ugh. I feel like my lungs are still filled with dust... and that's on top of having some kind of sinus infection that hit me over the weekend.
But, before this sounds too depressing, I'd like to note that it may just be a wonderful summer after all. I won't go into details, but I've realized some personal victories as of late. So, it will be interesting to see how the summer plays out.
Quick update... I went up to KC this weekend to help David & Sarah move. (The only thing I accomplished toward that goal was to paint about half of Erin's bedroom.) I went to an Easter egg hunt w/ John, Michelle, Natalie and Erin Saturday morning at the Speedway. But, I got back to Mom & Dad's and crashed for the afternoon. Then, I went out with a college friend (and a couple of his friends) for dinner. Then, strangely enough, we all took a driving tour of my hometown, Tonganoxie, and some other outlying areas.
All-in-all it was a good weekend. I wish I had felt better. I pretty much stayed around Mom & Dad's on Sunday and just watched non-stop movies all day. But, now it's time to get back to the daily grind here in Tulsa!
But, before this sounds too depressing, I'd like to note that it may just be a wonderful summer after all. I won't go into details, but I've realized some personal victories as of late. So, it will be interesting to see how the summer plays out.
Quick update... I went up to KC this weekend to help David & Sarah move. (The only thing I accomplished toward that goal was to paint about half of Erin's bedroom.) I went to an Easter egg hunt w/ John, Michelle, Natalie and Erin Saturday morning at the Speedway. But, I got back to Mom & Dad's and crashed for the afternoon. Then, I went out with a college friend (and a couple of his friends) for dinner. Then, strangely enough, we all took a driving tour of my hometown, Tonganoxie, and some other outlying areas.
All-in-all it was a good weekend. I wish I had felt better. I pretty much stayed around Mom & Dad's on Sunday and just watched non-stop movies all day. But, now it's time to get back to the daily grind here in Tulsa!
Monday, March 19, 2007
On Friendship...
"Give me one friend, just one, who meets the needs of all my varying moods."
(Esther M. Clark)
(Esther M. Clark)
Another Run-in with "The Law"
If you read Sarah's comment in the previous post, she referred to an "infamous" run-in with the cops in Emporia, KS. It's a fine story, so I thought I'd share it!
It was about 3:30 AM. A couple of girls from my high school had come for a campus visit to Emporia State University, so I was doing a bit of entertaining. We had been out bowling and then over to an all-night diner to have milkshakes or something. I was headed back to campus via Commercial, which is the main street that runs through downtown Emporia. A cop (who was bored no doubt) clocked me going 36 mph in a 20 mph zone. I remember him saying, "16 over... that's kind of hefty." I responded by saying something like, "well... it's 3:30 in the morning... it's not like I'm gonna HIT anything." (I know... I would've sent me straight to jail, too, after a snide comment like that!) The officer proceded to ask if I had been drinking. I replied, "no." (I conveniently left out the chocolate milk shake.) He told me to slow down but didn't write me a ticket. :)
The funnier addendum to the story is that a friend of mine was driving behind me and saw me get pulled over. He was going to circle to block so he could drive by and laugh at me. Instead, another bored cop pulled him over for having a headlight out! He wasn't as fortunate, though. HE GOT A TICKET!! Ha, ha, ha!!! KRISTA WILL NOT BE MOCKED!! ;)
I have some other good stories about being pulled over... one in which I had to actually say my "ABC's." (No, Mom... I hadn't been drinking.) But, I'll save those for another day/blog.
It was about 3:30 AM. A couple of girls from my high school had come for a campus visit to Emporia State University, so I was doing a bit of entertaining. We had been out bowling and then over to an all-night diner to have milkshakes or something. I was headed back to campus via Commercial, which is the main street that runs through downtown Emporia. A cop (who was bored no doubt) clocked me going 36 mph in a 20 mph zone. I remember him saying, "16 over... that's kind of hefty." I responded by saying something like, "well... it's 3:30 in the morning... it's not like I'm gonna HIT anything." (I know... I would've sent me straight to jail, too, after a snide comment like that!) The officer proceded to ask if I had been drinking. I replied, "no." (I conveniently left out the chocolate milk shake.) He told me to slow down but didn't write me a ticket. :)
The funnier addendum to the story is that a friend of mine was driving behind me and saw me get pulled over. He was going to circle to block so he could drive by and laugh at me. Instead, another bored cop pulled him over for having a headlight out! He wasn't as fortunate, though. HE GOT A TICKET!! Ha, ha, ha!!! KRISTA WILL NOT BE MOCKED!! ;)
I have some other good stories about being pulled over... one in which I had to actually say my "ABC's." (No, Mom... I hadn't been drinking.) But, I'll save those for another day/blog.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Thank you, Occifer!
Well... I got pulled over tonight. After church, a bunch of us went over to Mazzio's. I hate the entrance/exit to this specific Mazzio's, as it always confuses me. There are some strange lights and a median there at the entrance. Plus, it appears more like two entrances than an entrance and exit. As I was leaving, I exited through one of the entrances and drove south briefly on the northbound lane past the median and then into the proper lane. It was about 10 pm, so my thought was... this probably isn't the right way to get out of here, but it's late and there's no one around..... EXCEPT for the police officer in the northbound lane. I obviously didn't notice him until I was half-way through my little maneuver. :(
He flipped around and turned on his lights. He was shortly thereafter joined by another policeman. He asked for my license and insurance. FORTUNATELY he didn't ask for my registration, because I had very randomly pulled it out of my car yesterday and hadn't returned it to the glove box!!
When he came back he said, "so, I suppose you know why I pulled you over?" I nodded and commented that "I'm always confused as to how to exit that parking lot." He then shared with me how HE exits it. I also explained my reasoning about it being late and no one being out there... except for him, of course. So, he told me to drive carefully and let me go. Phew! I didn't even have to playing the crying of flipping-the-hair card. ;)
He flipped around and turned on his lights. He was shortly thereafter joined by another policeman. He asked for my license and insurance. FORTUNATELY he didn't ask for my registration, because I had very randomly pulled it out of my car yesterday and hadn't returned it to the glove box!!
When he came back he said, "so, I suppose you know why I pulled you over?" I nodded and commented that "I'm always confused as to how to exit that parking lot." He then shared with me how HE exits it. I also explained my reasoning about it being late and no one being out there... except for him, of course. So, he told me to drive carefully and let me go. Phew! I didn't even have to playing the crying of flipping-the-hair card. ;)
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Beware of the Ides of March!
Happy Ides, people!
One month until tax day. Have you done YOUR taxes? Yeah... me neither.
One month until tax day. Have you done YOUR taxes? Yeah... me neither.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Significant Relationships
I read this quote recently in a coffee house/book shop...
"Significant relationships are meant for those who place enough importance on them to nurture them." (Unfortunately, I can't remember or find who originally said/wrote it.)
Nurture your significant relationships. And if you don't have any significant relationships... create some and then nurture them. :)
"Significant relationships are meant for those who place enough importance on them to nurture them." (Unfortunately, I can't remember or find who originally said/wrote it.)
Nurture your significant relationships. And if you don't have any significant relationships... create some and then nurture them. :)
The Little Red Hen
Do you remember the story of the little red hen? For some reason it has come to mind a lot lately. In fact, I was thinking of it again this morning (hence the blog). It has some obvious "lessons" to it. Some of those are helpful...
"If you're not going to help, don't expect a handout."
"You must be willing to risk something in order to reap a reward."
Some are a bit more harsh...
"Don't expect anyone to help you in your labors. You can, however, expect them to show up and take advantage of your hard work in the end."
I'm not sure which lesson is for me. Maybe my lesson is that it's easy to get bitter and selfish in life... especially when we feel like we're on our own. But, then again, what good is life if we can't share what we have with others?
I guess I'll have to think on that a bit more. I'd love to hear your suggestions and interpretations, too.
In the meantime, I'm off to work! Have a great day y'all!
"If you're not going to help, don't expect a handout."
"You must be willing to risk something in order to reap a reward."
Some are a bit more harsh...
"Don't expect anyone to help you in your labors. You can, however, expect them to show up and take advantage of your hard work in the end."
I'm not sure which lesson is for me. Maybe my lesson is that it's easy to get bitter and selfish in life... especially when we feel like we're on our own. But, then again, what good is life if we can't share what we have with others?
I guess I'll have to think on that a bit more. I'd love to hear your suggestions and interpretations, too.
In the meantime, I'm off to work! Have a great day y'all!
Sunday, March 11, 2007
God's Sovereignty
Have you ever been to one of those points in life where you weren't sure what was supposed to come next? Like life had taken some funny detour and nothing looked familiar any more? I may be in such a place. It seems like some of the things that neatly defined my life in the past are slipping away, and I can't quite make out the new definition.
One time in college I was in a similar position. I was within a year of graduation, and had some significant friendships in my life. I was caught somewhere between moving forward and wanting to hang on. That's when a friend made a simple comment that put things into perspective...
"I believe in the sovereignty of God."
Sometimes I hate hearing that. I mean, if God is in control, that implies that I am NOT in control. And, I kind of like being in control (or at least THINKING I am). I'm not sure how that all applies to the spot in life I currently find myself, except to say that I know God is in control. If I keep my eyes on Him, nothing will come my way that I can't handle. And THAT is reassuring.
You might say a prayer for me as I'm sifting through these thoughts.
One time in college I was in a similar position. I was within a year of graduation, and had some significant friendships in my life. I was caught somewhere between moving forward and wanting to hang on. That's when a friend made a simple comment that put things into perspective...
"I believe in the sovereignty of God."
Sometimes I hate hearing that. I mean, if God is in control, that implies that I am NOT in control. And, I kind of like being in control (or at least THINKING I am). I'm not sure how that all applies to the spot in life I currently find myself, except to say that I know God is in control. If I keep my eyes on Him, nothing will come my way that I can't handle. And THAT is reassuring.
You might say a prayer for me as I'm sifting through these thoughts.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Encouragement
I got a nice boost of encouragement yesterday (well... Monday, by now). It's really cool to see God working in and around The Gathering!
There's nothing sweeter than seeing and helping people take steps closer to Him!
There's nothing sweeter than seeing and helping people take steps closer to Him!
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Live Your Own Truth
I caught the tail end of Oprah a couple of nights ago. The show was basically focused on married women who were attracted to other women, and the overall message was that you'll be happier in life if you admit your true feelings and live those out. She ended the show by saying, "live your own truth."
Isn't the theory that "we all have our own truth" self-defeating?
I mean... what is truth if it can be different for each one of us?
If your "truth" is hidden inside of you, how can someone else tell you for sure that it's there?
More importantly... if the "truth" is inside of you, why are you still looking for it?
If truth is relative, what is to keep it from changing from day to day? Today's truth may just be tomorrow's lie!
I don't know about you, but that kind of "truth" is worthless to me. I want the REAL Truth... the one that is constant... unchanging... unfaltering... solid. I have found such a truth, and his name is Jesus Christ!! He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Heb 13:8). He is the way, the TRUTH and the life (Jn 14:6)!
So, if you're on a search for THE TRUTH, you have two options... you can look inside yourself (according to some, it could be tucked neatly right there beneath your own nose), or you can recognize that THE TRUTH is bigger than yourself. You didn't create it. You CAN'T create it! IT CREATED YOU!
Friday, March 02, 2007
Rev Up Those Bagpipes and Get the Music Started!
Well... my neighbor is practicing his bagpipes today... no doubt gearing up for the upcoming "bagpipe season"... otherwise known as "St. Patrick's Day."
I may have mentioned the neighbor's annual St. Patrick's Day party. It's a neighborhood affair. One neighbor stands outside and plays his bagpipes, while the rest of us chow down on cookies and play "dirty Santa"-type St. Patrick games. I told you about the new shirt I bought for the party in a previous post. I just realized that, unfortunately, I have a choir concert the same night as the party. :( However, I'll probably go over a big early and hang out until I have to leave.
Ah, it's a festive time in the neighborhood!
I may have mentioned the neighbor's annual St. Patrick's Day party. It's a neighborhood affair. One neighbor stands outside and plays his bagpipes, while the rest of us chow down on cookies and play "dirty Santa"-type St. Patrick games. I told you about the new shirt I bought for the party in a previous post. I just realized that, unfortunately, I have a choir concert the same night as the party. :( However, I'll probably go over a big early and hang out until I have to leave.
Ah, it's a festive time in the neighborhood!
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Communication... or lack thereof
"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place."
~ George Bernard Shaw
Wow! How true!! I think guys are particularly bad at assuming they have communicated something when in reality nothing has been shared. I'm not a mind reader, so please... just say what you want to say.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Saturday, February 24, 2007
In the Stillness...
It's very quiet here... except for the wind howling outside. I took a Tylenol PM last night because I was having trouble sleeping, and it did the trick. It knocked me out until pretty late this morning.
It's been a fairly relaxing day, and I've gotten a few things done... though mostly I've just enjoyed bumming around. Forrest Gump was on TV tonight. For some reason that movie always strikes a tender chord in my soul. Last night I went to see the movie "Babel." I don't really recommend it, though it lived up to its name in terms of the confusion it caused. :)
Well, it's still quiet. I think I'm going to do some reading. I'm going to blog about one of the books I'm currently reading... after I've finished it. It describes well what it's like to be a Christian single adult (esp. over the age of 30) in today's culture. After I'm done with it, I'd be happy to tell you more about it.
I hope your day/night has been fun and delightful.
Krista
It's been a fairly relaxing day, and I've gotten a few things done... though mostly I've just enjoyed bumming around. Forrest Gump was on TV tonight. For some reason that movie always strikes a tender chord in my soul. Last night I went to see the movie "Babel." I don't really recommend it, though it lived up to its name in terms of the confusion it caused. :)
Well, it's still quiet. I think I'm going to do some reading. I'm going to blog about one of the books I'm currently reading... after I've finished it. It describes well what it's like to be a Christian single adult (esp. over the age of 30) in today's culture. After I'm done with it, I'd be happy to tell you more about it.
I hope your day/night has been fun and delightful.
Krista
A New Tee
I know... it's sad when the topic of one's blog is her newest T-shirt, but I just have to tell you about it. I love it. I really do. I bought it for St. Patty's Day, which is right around the corner. I wouldn't normally think of buying clothing for that "holiday"; however, my neighbor throws an awesome party every year. So this year I want to be prepared (... especially since my St. Patrick's bracelet that I received at the party two years back was stolen from my home).
The Place: Old Navy
The Price: $15 (I probably wouldn't have bought it at that price, but I had in my head it was $8 until I at the register ready to pay... and already in love with it.)
The Color: "Greenport"... a basic primary green (which I learned is a surprisingly nice color for me!)
The further description (from Old Navy's website)...
Irish eyes are sure to smile when you wear this flirty tee. Made of soft cotton, it features a rib-knit crew neck, cute cap sleeves and a special nod to St. Patty's Day.
Greenport: shamrock graphic composed of hearts, stars, and flowers
Unfortunately I couldn't find a picture of mine, but here's one of a similar vein, except Basil green and different graphic... (I might have bought this one, only I'm not Irish.)
The Place: Old Navy
The Price: $15 (I probably wouldn't have bought it at that price, but I had in my head it was $8 until I at the register ready to pay... and already in love with it.)
The Color: "Greenport"... a basic primary green (which I learned is a surprisingly nice color for me!)
The further description (from Old Navy's website)...
Irish eyes are sure to smile when you wear this flirty tee. Made of soft cotton, it features a rib-knit crew neck, cute cap sleeves and a special nod to St. Patty's Day.
Greenport: shamrock graphic composed of hearts, stars, and flowers
Unfortunately I couldn't find a picture of mine, but here's one of a similar vein, except Basil green and different graphic... (I might have bought this one, only I'm not Irish.)
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Speaking of Nanners...
(Re: the comment on the previous post...) No banana pancakes this past weekend, but TWO weekends ago, I made a go at making my own. They turned out very well, actually. They were not only beautiful but also tasted divine. :) I also made a sort of blackberry syrup for them. Mmmmmmm... brings back memories of sunny days in La Jolla.
And since we're speaking of breakfasts... I had breakfast in bed one day last week. Now, I know some of you would consider that to be a scandalous and shocking announcement, but never fear. I got up on Valentine's morning, made myself a nice breakfast... bacon, eggs and grapefruit... and took it back to bed to eat. It was absolutely delightful. The only thing that could have made it better (besides having it served by a loving husband) would have been to have it served on one of those little "breakfast-in-bed" trays. Maybe I need to get one of those...
And since we're speaking of breakfasts... I had breakfast in bed one day last week. Now, I know some of you would consider that to be a scandalous and shocking announcement, but never fear. I got up on Valentine's morning, made myself a nice breakfast... bacon, eggs and grapefruit... and took it back to bed to eat. It was absolutely delightful. The only thing that could have made it better (besides having it served by a loving husband) would have been to have it served on one of those little "breakfast-in-bed" trays. Maybe I need to get one of those...
Monday, February 19, 2007
Amendment to Previous Comments
When I said the weekend was "dull," I may have unwittingly implied there were no redeeming qualities to the weekend (other than the cleaning). I did, however, have a delightful brunch with two friends on Saturday. We had French toast, oatmeal, bacon, sparkling grapejuice and coffee. (I would hate to not be invited back after slighting it in a blog comment.)
Big Changes
I received a fortune cookie awhile back that said, "Big changes are in store for you." :) In some ways I feel a season of change coming on. I don't even know what that means, and last time I predicted some big change, it never presented itself. But, I think I'm committed to change this time. So... one way or another...
This weekend was pretty dull, though I got an exceptional amount of cleaning done... most notably on my bedroom, living and dining room. I've started on the main bathroom (tub, stool and counter top), but I still have the kitchen. One of my greatest accomplishments was cleaning the hard wood floors (all except in the office). I even rolled up the rug in the living room to clean the floors in there.
Church was good tonight... fairly encouraging. There seem to be some new folks around. That always livens things up a bit. In fact, I think I'm working on making a new friend. It's been awhile, so I'm looking forward to exploring that.
No other news to report... other than I'm tired and want to get in bed. G'night!
This weekend was pretty dull, though I got an exceptional amount of cleaning done... most notably on my bedroom, living and dining room. I've started on the main bathroom (tub, stool and counter top), but I still have the kitchen. One of my greatest accomplishments was cleaning the hard wood floors (all except in the office). I even rolled up the rug in the living room to clean the floors in there.
Church was good tonight... fairly encouraging. There seem to be some new folks around. That always livens things up a bit. In fact, I think I'm working on making a new friend. It's been awhile, so I'm looking forward to exploring that.
No other news to report... other than I'm tired and want to get in bed. G'night!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Ahhh... sweet relief
FINALLY!! I have a new phone in my possession. Same #, same service. I think it's Samsung's response to the Motorola Razor. I'm enjoying it so far. Mainly, though, I'm just happy to have good reception and for the person on the other end of the line to be able to hear me! (It's the simple pleasures...)
Okay, I just remembered I have to be at a meeting at 6:30 AM. I guess I should get in bed!!!! But, remind me to tell you about the guy I met at the Sprint store. It's one small leap for most women, but one GIANT leap for Krista!! :)
Okay, I just remembered I have to be at a meeting at 6:30 AM. I guess I should get in bed!!!! But, remind me to tell you about the guy I met at the Sprint store. It's one small leap for most women, but one GIANT leap for Krista!! :)
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Love is like a booger...
You keep picking at it until you get it, then wonder what to do with it. (Unknown)
Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!
Krista
Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!
Krista
P.S. - For all you single women out there...
Monday, February 12, 2007
Sprint Spatz
My story begins on New Years Eve. I had my phone with me at or about the stroke of midnight, but my 12:30 AM or so it had gone missing. I was at church, so I had to have lost it somewhere in the building... UNLESS it was packed away on the truck with all our stuff OR it fell into a trash can and was taken out of the building that way. Yes... I tried calling it, but I knew I left it on vibrate that night, so that wasn't successful. So, I waited one week... until the following Sunday, hoping to find it again. No luck. It has yet to reappear.
Soon thereafter a friend (Chris C... don't say I never mention you either!) offered me an old cell phone of his to use. It was fairly similar to my old one, so I activated it and began using it. I was impressed with how easy it was to call in and activate the "new" phone! Kudos to Sprint on that one! However, as soon as people began calling me, they started complaining about how difficult it was to hear me. So, it didn't take me too long to realize I needed a NEW phone.
I tried looking on line to see when I was eligible for my next rebate, but was having difficulty. So, I headed to my local Sprint store to inquire. I explained to them what happened, and they said, "oh... didn't they tell you when you activated the other phone that it would RESET your rebate period?"
Krista: (disappointedly) "uh... no... they did not."
Sprint Rep: "Oh... so they didn't tell you that as of September you were eligible for $150 toward a brand new phone?"
Krista: (even more irritated) "No. They did not."
As luck would have it, the in-store reps were helpless. They suggested I go back home, call Sprint Customer Care (yes... "Customer Care") and see if they would reset the rebate. (joy, joy)
I called Sprint expecting them to put up a fight. Instead, they were very quick and helpful. They reset the rebate and transferred me to the sales department to order a new phone.
PHASE 2:
I believe I was patched through to a call center somewhere in India. I had already visited Sprint's website to ID a potential model. So, that was easy enough... or should have been. Before closing the deal, I unfortunately asked the rep if the phone had a certain feature (even though I had verified that on-line). She said that it did not. After being put on hold TWICE and me having time to verify it on-line, she came back and said that it "definitely does NOT have that feature." I told her I had checked it on the website, and it said the phone DOES have that feature. She then asked me if I was looking at phonescoop.com. I sternly replied, "NO! I'm looking at SPRINTPCS.COM!!!!! SPRINT'S WEBSITE!!!" After going there herself she (surprisingly) admitted that the phone DID have that feature. Right before finishing up, she gave me my new phone number. Um... "I don't want a new phone number!!! I just want a new phone." She kindly explained that sending the phone programmed with my old # might result in a break in service. So, she told me when I received the new phone to call in and have them switch the number when I activate it. Okay, fine, whatever.
Waiting... waiting... waiting for my new phone...
The phone arrives. I pretty much hate it at first sight. But, whatever... it's a new phone. I call in to activate it. The Sprint Rep (may have been the same lady as before) asked me what number I wanted to change it to. When I gave her the #, she said, "I show that's a number on one of your other lines." HELLO!!! I DIDN'T WANT A SECOND LINE. I JUST WANTED A NEW PHONE!!!!! She gets more and more confused and finally transfers me to someone in the continental United States. Ah, David, you're a sound for sore ears! However, he explained that he could not change the number on that phone without charging me FULL PRICE for the phone (i.e. - not applying the $150 rebate). He says I'll have to return that phone and they can ship out another one. Grrrrrr!!!!! I vented to him awhile, because I had made it VERY CLEAR to Sprint what I wanted (and didn't want). He finally said he'd mail me a return pack for the phone, so I wouldn't be out any postage to resend it. (Gee, thanks.) I postpone the re-ordering of a new phone but ask him to reinstate the rebate so I can order a phone from a local Sprint store, which he fortunately does.
Waiting... waiting... waiting for the return pack.
After about a week, it finally comes. Shipping it back is relatively easy.
Few days later.... I go into a Sprint store and hate all of the phones they have... except for (of course) all of the uber-expensive ones. I finally decide on the same model that was originally mailed to me. (I'll have 30 days in which to return it if I don't like it.) However, the normal blue and silver phones are gone. All they have is PINK. The thought of carrying around a candy pink phone for the next two years made me want to puke, so I passed and left the store... unsatisfied yet again.
Two weeks later (today), I visit a Cingular store. I like some of the phone options, but wonder about the cost-benefit given the fact that my whole family and close friends are still with Sprint.
Several hours later I receive my latest Sprint bill... which includes $204 of charges related to the "new phone line" they set up for me. So, I spent the last hour on the phone with Sprint again. I was told "a credit will be issued for the phone within ten to fifteen days of them receiving the phone you sent back," which apparently they received on February 7th. I kept saying (because I'm set up on automatic withdrawal, "I DON'T WANT MY BANK ACCOUNT TO BE CHARGED FOR THAT LINE." They would reply, "we will credit back your account when the paperwork goes through." I would repeat, "I DON'T WANT MY BANK ACCOUNT TO BE CHARGED FOR THAT LINE." I finally asked for a manager, who told me pretty much the same thing. But, she finally assured me that it would be credited within 10 days (which is before it's due to hit my account); however, the last thing she said is "you might call back two days before it hits just to make sure..." Geesh.
Believe it or not, that's the abbreviated story. Within each of those calls was more arguing and fighting than I described here. What I want to know is... whatever happened to CUSTOMER SERVICE? Admitting mistakes (many, many mistakes) have been made and trying to make it right? Is that too much to ask?
Anyway... the reception on my land-line sucks, too. So, please don't think I'm ignoring any of you. It's just been annoying to use either of my phones for the past six weeks. Maybe one day I'll get it resolved and have clear reception once again.
Kudos to anyone who actually read this whole post. I'm impressed!
Soon thereafter a friend (Chris C... don't say I never mention you either!) offered me an old cell phone of his to use. It was fairly similar to my old one, so I activated it and began using it. I was impressed with how easy it was to call in and activate the "new" phone! Kudos to Sprint on that one! However, as soon as people began calling me, they started complaining about how difficult it was to hear me. So, it didn't take me too long to realize I needed a NEW phone.
I tried looking on line to see when I was eligible for my next rebate, but was having difficulty. So, I headed to my local Sprint store to inquire. I explained to them what happened, and they said, "oh... didn't they tell you when you activated the other phone that it would RESET your rebate period?"
Krista: (disappointedly) "uh... no... they did not."
Sprint Rep: "Oh... so they didn't tell you that as of September you were eligible for $150 toward a brand new phone?"
Krista: (even more irritated) "No. They did not."
As luck would have it, the in-store reps were helpless. They suggested I go back home, call Sprint Customer Care (yes... "Customer Care") and see if they would reset the rebate. (joy, joy)
I called Sprint expecting them to put up a fight. Instead, they were very quick and helpful. They reset the rebate and transferred me to the sales department to order a new phone.
PHASE 2:
I believe I was patched through to a call center somewhere in India. I had already visited Sprint's website to ID a potential model. So, that was easy enough... or should have been. Before closing the deal, I unfortunately asked the rep if the phone had a certain feature (even though I had verified that on-line). She said that it did not. After being put on hold TWICE and me having time to verify it on-line, she came back and said that it "definitely does NOT have that feature." I told her I had checked it on the website, and it said the phone DOES have that feature. She then asked me if I was looking at phonescoop.com. I sternly replied, "NO! I'm looking at SPRINTPCS.COM!!!!! SPRINT'S WEBSITE!!!" After going there herself she (surprisingly) admitted that the phone DID have that feature. Right before finishing up, she gave me my new phone number. Um... "I don't want a new phone number!!! I just want a new phone." She kindly explained that sending the phone programmed with my old # might result in a break in service. So, she told me when I received the new phone to call in and have them switch the number when I activate it. Okay, fine, whatever.
Waiting... waiting... waiting for my new phone...
The phone arrives. I pretty much hate it at first sight. But, whatever... it's a new phone. I call in to activate it. The Sprint Rep (may have been the same lady as before) asked me what number I wanted to change it to. When I gave her the #, she said, "I show that's a number on one of your other lines." HELLO!!! I DIDN'T WANT A SECOND LINE. I JUST WANTED A NEW PHONE!!!!! She gets more and more confused and finally transfers me to someone in the continental United States. Ah, David, you're a sound for sore ears! However, he explained that he could not change the number on that phone without charging me FULL PRICE for the phone (i.e. - not applying the $150 rebate). He says I'll have to return that phone and they can ship out another one. Grrrrrr!!!!! I vented to him awhile, because I had made it VERY CLEAR to Sprint what I wanted (and didn't want). He finally said he'd mail me a return pack for the phone, so I wouldn't be out any postage to resend it. (Gee, thanks.) I postpone the re-ordering of a new phone but ask him to reinstate the rebate so I can order a phone from a local Sprint store, which he fortunately does.
Waiting... waiting... waiting for the return pack.
After about a week, it finally comes. Shipping it back is relatively easy.
Few days later.... I go into a Sprint store and hate all of the phones they have... except for (of course) all of the uber-expensive ones. I finally decide on the same model that was originally mailed to me. (I'll have 30 days in which to return it if I don't like it.) However, the normal blue and silver phones are gone. All they have is PINK. The thought of carrying around a candy pink phone for the next two years made me want to puke, so I passed and left the store... unsatisfied yet again.
Two weeks later (today), I visit a Cingular store. I like some of the phone options, but wonder about the cost-benefit given the fact that my whole family and close friends are still with Sprint.
Several hours later I receive my latest Sprint bill... which includes $204 of charges related to the "new phone line" they set up for me. So, I spent the last hour on the phone with Sprint again. I was told "a credit will be issued for the phone within ten to fifteen days of them receiving the phone you sent back," which apparently they received on February 7th. I kept saying (because I'm set up on automatic withdrawal, "I DON'T WANT MY BANK ACCOUNT TO BE CHARGED FOR THAT LINE." They would reply, "we will credit back your account when the paperwork goes through." I would repeat, "I DON'T WANT MY BANK ACCOUNT TO BE CHARGED FOR THAT LINE." I finally asked for a manager, who told me pretty much the same thing. But, she finally assured me that it would be credited within 10 days (which is before it's due to hit my account); however, the last thing she said is "you might call back two days before it hits just to make sure..." Geesh.
Believe it or not, that's the abbreviated story. Within each of those calls was more arguing and fighting than I described here. What I want to know is... whatever happened to CUSTOMER SERVICE? Admitting mistakes (many, many mistakes) have been made and trying to make it right? Is that too much to ask?
Anyway... the reception on my land-line sucks, too. So, please don't think I'm ignoring any of you. It's just been annoying to use either of my phones for the past six weeks. Maybe one day I'll get it resolved and have clear reception once again.
Kudos to anyone who actually read this whole post. I'm impressed!
Friday, February 09, 2007
Pictoral Documentation
This was one of our favorite runs. It was much more steep than it looks. I got pretty good at taking it fast... except for the one time I did a shoulder-plant into one of the moguls!
Krista the Snow Bunny!
Krista the Snow Bunny!
Panoramic. Beeeeaaaauuuutiful!!!
"Either way..."
Well... it seems I have a lot to blog about.
First, a non-personal comment. I caught a clip of 20/20 tonight, and they were interviewing this young kid who has been producing videos on-line. I thought it was fascinating for some reason. I think I'm just impressed (maybe even a bit scared) at the power of the internet.
I've returned safely from my ski escape to Colorado. I have a few impressive bruises, but I wouldn't trade a one of them. :) I'm just disappointed the trip is over and I'm back to life as usual.
I have learned a few things, though...
1) Though some can do it, I am not able to sit/lay down on the back of my skis and then stand up again. I tried numerous times, but I could barely even keep from crashing... much less get back up.
2) I'm glad I don't have kids. :) Don't get me wrong, children can be adorable... and I enjoyed getting to play with Seth in the evenings on our trip. But... when they're unhappy, they're unhappy. To complicate matters, they don't seem to have an off switch.
3) I'm apparently a "light blue."
4) It was brought to my attention that I say "either way" all the time. And, it seems to true. It was pointed out to me repeatedly on this trip.
5) My niece, Avery, got her first tooth. Erin was kind enough to call me and let me know!
So, it was an educational trip, too!
I enjoyed all the slopes, but the last day, we went up on top of the mountain and had about a 315-degree panoramic view of the mountains. It was an amazing site! I'm always impressed at God's creativity in creation! I'll try to post a picture or two for you! I was just fortunate enough not to be blown off the top of the mountain. :)
Okay... more blogging to come. If not tonight, then soon!
First, a non-personal comment. I caught a clip of 20/20 tonight, and they were interviewing this young kid who has been producing videos on-line. I thought it was fascinating for some reason. I think I'm just impressed (maybe even a bit scared) at the power of the internet.
I've returned safely from my ski escape to Colorado. I have a few impressive bruises, but I wouldn't trade a one of them. :) I'm just disappointed the trip is over and I'm back to life as usual.
I have learned a few things, though...
1) Though some can do it, I am not able to sit/lay down on the back of my skis and then stand up again. I tried numerous times, but I could barely even keep from crashing... much less get back up.
2) I'm glad I don't have kids. :) Don't get me wrong, children can be adorable... and I enjoyed getting to play with Seth in the evenings on our trip. But... when they're unhappy, they're unhappy. To complicate matters, they don't seem to have an off switch.
3) I'm apparently a "light blue."
4) It was brought to my attention that I say "either way" all the time. And, it seems to true. It was pointed out to me repeatedly on this trip.
5) My niece, Avery, got her first tooth. Erin was kind enough to call me and let me know!
So, it was an educational trip, too!
I enjoyed all the slopes, but the last day, we went up on top of the mountain and had about a 315-degree panoramic view of the mountains. It was an amazing site! I'm always impressed at God's creativity in creation! I'll try to post a picture or two for you! I was just fortunate enough not to be blown off the top of the mountain. :)
Okay... more blogging to come. If not tonight, then soon!
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Bruised & Battered
Well... I've been skiing the past three days... and loving every minute of it. I'm a bit bruised and battered, but no matter. It was well worth it. We spent one day at Keystone then hit Breckenridge and Arapahoe Basin. A-Basin is a sort of smallish resort, but it's fun to just play around in the trees and terrain parks. I took several good spills. But the way I see it... if you don't take any good spills, you're not skiing hard enough. :)
More on that later. We're driving home tomorrow!
Krista
More on that later. We're driving home tomorrow!
Krista
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Love Me Tender
I just finished watching part of a documentary on the life of Elvis. I'm kind of a closet Elvis fan. It seems an odd fascination... like my fascination with Rocky movies and Christopher Walken. It's difficult to explain. I don't collect Elvis memorabilia or anything. I only have one CD... the latest compilation of all of his #1 hits. But, it's difficult for me not to watch old Elvis movies or documentaries when I run across them. I really think if I had been alive in the 50's I would have been one of those crazy girls who nearly faints at the thought of Elvis. Although, if I had the same parents then as I do now, I'm sure I wouldn't be allowed to listen to him music or watch his movies. My how things have changed!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Holiness
"Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"
I Peter 1:13-16
I Peter 1:13-16
Monday, January 15, 2007
Addictions... some old, some new
Okay, so I'm addicted to the "old-school" video games on John's website. If you've been there, you know what I mean! Snake is my favorite, though I'm obviously no good. (Don't be fooled by the fact that the initials "KDR" appear toward the top of the list.) Matt H. is the undeniable champion. (Don't say you're never mentioned on my blog!!) Well, except for PACMAN, where Matt F. has blown everyone away. Check it out, if you dare.
My other (renewed) addiction? 24
Season 6 started last night. I've decided (for the time being) to skip Seasons 3-5 and watch the current season with the rest of the world. Don't you just love Jack Bauer?!?! :) The second half of the premier is on tonight, so I'm secretly hoping choir rehearsal will be canceled.
My other (renewed) addiction? 24
Season 6 started last night. I've decided (for the time being) to skip Seasons 3-5 and watch the current season with the rest of the world. Don't you just love Jack Bauer?!?! :) The second half of the premier is on tonight, so I'm secretly hoping choir rehearsal will be canceled.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Crazy Linda
Okay, here's the real update... at least as much as I can manage at this time...
I spent the morning in the courthouse. There was supposed to be a preliminary trial for one girl involved in our break-in. Apparently she didn't actually participate in the burglary... just got caught with the stolen good in her car afterwards. Allegedly. Did I say "allegedly"? ;) Anyway, it was all for naught. After an hour and a half we were released to go. She waived her right to the trial or something. I'm still a bit confused as to what happened. Regardless, it sounds like we could be subpoenaed to testify again in the future. In the meantime, we turned in a list of everything we lost and the real-world value of those things. Such a pain, such a pain.
In other life news... busy season sucks. :) I know that doesn't make any sense, but trust me...it does. Regardless, I'm feeling somewhat optimistic about 2007. Good things may be in store. In fact, I had a fortune cookie the other day that said, "Big change is ahead for you" (or something like that). I realize that could be big bad change, too, but I'm hoping for the best. :)
If nothing else, the weekend is ahead!
Commentary on the title line: I had a Crazy Linda Roll today at a local sushi restaurant. It totally rocks!!
I spent the morning in the courthouse. There was supposed to be a preliminary trial for one girl involved in our break-in. Apparently she didn't actually participate in the burglary... just got caught with the stolen good in her car afterwards. Allegedly. Did I say "allegedly"? ;) Anyway, it was all for naught. After an hour and a half we were released to go. She waived her right to the trial or something. I'm still a bit confused as to what happened. Regardless, it sounds like we could be subpoenaed to testify again in the future. In the meantime, we turned in a list of everything we lost and the real-world value of those things. Such a pain, such a pain.
In other life news... busy season sucks. :) I know that doesn't make any sense, but trust me...it does. Regardless, I'm feeling somewhat optimistic about 2007. Good things may be in store. In fact, I had a fortune cookie the other day that said, "Big change is ahead for you" (or something like that). I realize that could be big bad change, too, but I'm hoping for the best. :)
If nothing else, the weekend is ahead!
Commentary on the title line: I had a Crazy Linda Roll today at a local sushi restaurant. It totally rocks!!
My lovely nieces
Row, row, row your box...
I have to hand it to the competition (Aunt Michelle)... when Erin opened the box with the boots she exclaimed (and I mean EXCLAIMED), "THIS IS THE BEST CHRISTMAS EVER!!!!!! I'VE WAITED MY WHOLE LIFE FOR THESE!!!!" So, Aunt Chelle may have usurped her authority as the underling aunt.
Our little model...
Princess Natalie...
L'il Avery. 'Nuff said. :)
I have to hand it to the competition (Aunt Michelle)... when Erin opened the box with the boots she exclaimed (and I mean EXCLAIMED), "THIS IS THE BEST CHRISTMAS EVER!!!!!! I'VE WAITED MY WHOLE LIFE FOR THESE!!!!" So, Aunt Chelle may have usurped her authority as the underling aunt.
Our little model...
Princess Natalie...
L'il Avery. 'Nuff said. :)
Christmas 2004
No, the above title is not a typo. For Christmas 2004, our family decided to draw names for Christmas. And just to change things up a bit, we add a requirement that you had to MAKE the gift. Was it a success you ask? Well... let me put it this way... most of us received "IOU's" for Christmas that year. And a further indication as to the success (or lack thereof), there's been no mention of ever doing that again.
All that being said, Mom made good on her Christmas gift to me this year! And, it was definitely worth the wait. (I had my brother's name, and though he actually received a gift on December 25, 2004, they were baked goods... mainly cookies.)
So, without further ado...
Monogrammed sheets, too! (Thanks, Ann!!!)
All that being said, Mom made good on her Christmas gift to me this year! And, it was definitely worth the wait. (I had my brother's name, and though he actually received a gift on December 25, 2004, they were baked goods... mainly cookies.)
So, without further ado...
Monogrammed sheets, too! (Thanks, Ann!!!)
Love you, Mom!! Yes... DEFINITELY worth the wait! :)
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Found!
I don't believe I blogged about it, but another attempt had been made on my jewelry... this time by my niece, Erin. :) My whole family came down for Christmas, and at some point, my niece gathered up all of my jewelry from my jewelry box, put it in some kind of children's toy (a plastic box with different shaped cutouts) and carried it out to the living room to show it off. The only problem was that half of it was falling out through the cutouts. I commented that the recent burgulars tried the same thing with a ziploc bag. :)
So, I collected the jewelry and untangled it all for the second time in recent days. The only thing I couldn't find was one tiny peridot earring. I wasn't too upset about it, but I was hoping to locate it, as it was a gift from my grandparents... when I first got my ears pierced. We searched high and low... from the bedroom, down the hall, into the living room, carefully through the living room carpet... to no avail. I finally vacuumed my carpet last night. (I had been putting it off... assuming I would probably suck up the earring as I cleaned.) No further sign of the earring. HOWEVER... when I got home tonight, I did a bit more cleaning in the kitchen. I saw the earring just as I nearly sucked it up! But, it was saved from the jaws of the vacuum cleaner, and it has been safely restored to my jewelry box! Yeah!
I think I've also finished my replies to companies and organizations regarding my stolen checks and credit card. That was quite a hassle, but I hope I'm done. (Knock on wood!)
So, I collected the jewelry and untangled it all for the second time in recent days. The only thing I couldn't find was one tiny peridot earring. I wasn't too upset about it, but I was hoping to locate it, as it was a gift from my grandparents... when I first got my ears pierced. We searched high and low... from the bedroom, down the hall, into the living room, carefully through the living room carpet... to no avail. I finally vacuumed my carpet last night. (I had been putting it off... assuming I would probably suck up the earring as I cleaned.) No further sign of the earring. HOWEVER... when I got home tonight, I did a bit more cleaning in the kitchen. I saw the earring just as I nearly sucked it up! But, it was saved from the jaws of the vacuum cleaner, and it has been safely restored to my jewelry box! Yeah!
I think I've also finished my replies to companies and organizations regarding my stolen checks and credit card. That was quite a hassle, but I hope I'm done. (Knock on wood!)
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