Dead Chuffed Life

Parker Family

2012-02-08T19:36:00.003-05:00

Our friends Mike & Sasha are bringing home their adopted son Joseph from Ethiopia this week! They have such a sweet story on their blog about how the Lord has been grafting Joseph into their family. I think I've cried while reading every blog post! Click here, then scroll back and be BLESSED!

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! Home Study Completed!

2012-02-08T19:27:00.001-05:00

Today we had the last home inspection of our home study to become foster/adoptive parents. This process began last August and has involved many meetings, classes, paperwork, appointments, and more personal questions than I care to recount (God forbid you tell them you have ever been to counseling! Opened that can of worms way too many times.) I feel a huge weight lifted off my shoulder. We should have our final approval within a week and then can accept a placement at any time.

I have to brag on my wonderful husband who has been a solid rock partner and never failing encourager during this process. I should write more about that soon. But for now I'm just going to enjoy my nice clean and deceptively barely organized house. And we are on our way to hang out with our friends Ben & Julie for an evening chat taking with us a fresh baked chocolate beet cake. Yes, David Leibovitz Moist Chocolate-Beet Cake.

Booster Shot Needed

2012-01-16T17:13:00.001-05:00

My husband recently asked me if I had my pertussis booster (whooping cough). He had just had his booster shot. I told him I would call and check before we become foster parents. Then I got a cold. Then they announced an outbreak of whooping cough at our school. It does feel like I work in a germ factory during the winter. An early dose of antibiotics has suppressed the illness in my body but I spent the last week feeling MISERABLE. On the mend now and scheduled for a shot next month.
But the commercial keeps playing over in my head "Your arms should be the safest place in the world for your baby.........". Make sure you've had your adult booster if you are around kids!

DIY Disaster

2012-01-16T17:05:00.001-05:00

For about a year I've been making my own laundry detergent. It's saves me tons of money and I only have to make up a double batch about 2-3 times a year. Though money is not the main drive behind this DIY routine. I hate buying cleaning products and resent bottles of laundry detergent. Can't really explain except to say that I really hate them.

Lately I noticed that my liquid detergent was leaving the whites kinda dingy so last night I doctored the recipe. Note to self: Do not add oxy clean while you are still cooking the detergent. Foam was everywhere and kept growing. Had to throw it out and start over again. Oh well.

Kid Stuff!

2012-01-08T20:03:00.002-05:00

I've said that the thought of becoming "instant parents" has been daunting to me and John. I'm less scared about how-to's of parenting, but worry more about making our home a place where a small child would want to live. We've been given a few baby things and know the basic equipment needs of babies/toddlers. We are open to taking in children ages 0-5. I want to be able to have a few things on hand for each of those ages so we are a litle prepared before we get the phone call. If you have young children, what are some of the things that you can't live without?
Can you advise?????

Due Date

2012-01-08T19:54:00.000-05:00

This week our home study is due to be completed (minus the licencing inspection). The process started in August with an initial inquiry sent in via the web while driving back from family vacation in Michigan. Once our application was submitted, the state agency had 100 days to complete the home study. This has included three home visits with interviews, about 24 hours of training classes, mounds of paperwork (thank you John!), moving around bedrooms to make a "kid's room", a few tears, too many anxieties, and MANY prayers. After the home study is reviewed this week, a different state agency has 30 days to complete the inspection. Which means that I have less than 30 days to make this house "kid safe".

Why Foster Care?

2012-01-02T18:43:00.001-05:00

I realize that many of you may have questions about why John & I are progressing down the route of caring for foster children. Hopefully this post will answer some of those questions.

What type of children are in foster care?
Children who are in foster care have usually been removed from their parents custody because of abuse or neglect. All ages of children are in foster care. The purpose is always for the parents to work toward reunification and they usually have about a year to do so. If they don't fulfill the requirements, their rights are terminated and the child becomes available for adoption. (This is the most straightforward explaination, however, there are about a million variants in individualt cases.)

Are you struggling with infertility?
Yes and No! Shortly after getting married we found out that I had a congenital defect resulting in a malformed uterus which would make it impossible to carry a pregnancy. Two surgeries later I supposedly have a safe womb. However, there have been many bumps along the way that have forced us to reflect on what it best for us and how might God have already planned to put our family together. This opened our hearts to pursuing this journey toward foster care and adoption.

Why foster care?
Foster care was something that we talked about before we got engaged (initiated by me, Christine). For many year before I was married I wondered if my calling in life was only to love and care for other people's children (through my vocational ministries and relationship with families). I was much at peace with this idea. Foster care was modeled for me at the youngest age. My grandparents had over 100 foster children in their care. I can remember playing with them when I was a little girl. I worked with foster kids in a group home when I was just out of college. For years I have envied the many families I've known who have done Bethany Cradle Care (caring for infants before they are placed in adoptive homes). Foster care was just always something I hoped to do in life. I also loved the idea of adoption. Foster care and adoption after biological children. John was open to the idea though he also thought it would follow having biological children. The Lord used some hard struggles to help us accept that the picture we had in our head may not actually be what He has drawn for us. Slowly our hearts began to change and we were led to pursuing foster care now. Sometimes all it takes are the simple words of a friend to change your persepctive a great deal.

What if you get too attached?
This is a common question, along with the comment "I would get too attached.". Turns out that attachment is the purpose of foster care! While children are not with their parents they need to form loving and secure bonds with their primary caregivers. They need to know that they can trust you and that you will care for them. Healthy attachment is the best thing that can happen in a foster family. The hard part is letting go. And it will be hard. Maybe too hard. It just makes me think "I'm so glad that John is my partner in this adventure." Sure and steady John.
For a good rant on foster attachment, read this.

This post is too long already! That's all for now (though I always have more to say).

Christmas Letter

2012-01-01T22:31:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to you, ourfriends and family!

Every year seems to pass morequickly than the last. 2011 allowed us a chance to “catch our breath” afterJohn completed the 2010 Census. We enjoyed making memories with vacations toCalifornia and Michigan. Christine got a new job working in a Glen Rockelementary school as a third grade assistant. John is currently beingchallenged through supervising a survey for the eastern half of the country. We are so thankful to have jobs that we love.In January we “adopted” a small mix breed dog named Bodi. She has been a sweetblessing in our home and we enjoy her so much.

We have great expectation that2012 will be full of adventure for us. Weare about to complete our home study to become foster/adoptive parents. Thishas been a huge faith challenge for us. The object of foster care is to help childrendevelop healthy attachments while they are not able to live with their parents.Our hope is to give temporary care as well as build our own family by adoptingchildren that become available through the system. We trust that God haswritten our family story for us and our hearts are steadfast in trust that Hewill reveal His plan one step at a time.

As you celebrate the holidayseason we hope that the greatest story ever, the Word becoming flesh, is madereal in your hearts. Joy to the World!

(Dog picture not included with Christmas cards. Just an added bonus for those reading here. ;)

Resurrection and New Life

2011-12-31T14:53:00.001-05:00

Hello friends! Happy New Year!
I'm resurrecting the blog (again) but with new purpose. John and I are completing a home study to become foster/adoptive parents! While we have spent much time in preparation for this, we realize that many of our friends and family may be still in the dark about this new adventure in our lives. It is daunting to think about becoming parents overnight or showing up at church one Sunday with a new child(ren). I can imagine the questions and funny looks...... So this resurrection is a small attempt in keeping loved ones informed of our growing family life. We are incredibly thankful for the love and encouragement family and friends have showed us thus far. Here's to 2012 - we expect it to be a great adventure!

April Showers

2010-04-07T08:45:00.003-04:00

I've been trying to learn from my husband who is much more disciplined than me in his morning routine. He rolls out of bed and immediately showers and gets fully ready for the day. Me, I like to lounge around in my pajamas, drink coffee, watch morning news, etc and then get ready for the day. But I realize I am much more likely to waste precious morning hours.

So today I got up at 6:30am and immediately showered. Then I decided to go out and work in the garden - just some light work. By 8am I was drenched in sweat and went inside to shower again. Then I realized I would shower for a thrid time after being in the pool tonight. And this afternoon I have an appt for a haircut which will include another washing. This what I get for trying to be more disciplined in the morning.

The good news is that the garden is being primed for May flowers.

D-Day for the Bakers

2010-03-02T06:49:00.002-05:00

Many of you know that John works for the US Census Bureau and is supervising census operations in Manhattan for the 2010 Census. Yesterday was the official start of the 2010 Census (though he has already been working on it for 2 years). Sunday night we were laying in bed at 11pm and I said "Well it is march 1st. D-day has arrived." John stared at me and said "It's not March 1st yet." Typical response from my ultra-literal husband!
John is amazingly gifted for this census work yet he is being stretched beyond belief right now. We expect the next few months to have a lot of ups & downs but thankful that come fall, life will start to get back to "normal" for us. Whatever that is.

More about my life changes later.

Favorite New Movie

2009-08-08T22:04:00.002-04:00

John and I went out last night to see Julie & Julia (the story of Julia Child and and a woman who works through her cookbook in a year and blogs about it). I was soooo looking forward to this movie and as I learned more about it I had an inkling I would "connect" to the main character very well. Guess I'm just feeling like I need some inspiration in life like she did? My sweet husband will often caress my arm or hand during a movie to communicate something - it means different things at different times. But it is a point of connection for us, communication without words. John does not like to talk or be talked to during the movie or even the previews (even when his wife gets upset during a very scary preview). So as we were sitting there watching the movie first something happened and John gave my arm a little rub to say "That is something you would like." The next time it turned into a little slap on my knee. The next time he flat out said "That is so you!!!" I wasn't the only one feeling the connection. Unfortunately, I think John said that when the main character was having a melt down over not getting a recipe correct and was laying on the kitchen floor in emotional turmoil. Not like me at all!

My Nemesis: The Reappearing Yucca Plant

2009-08-08T21:21:00.005-04:00

This spring I wanted to tackle a "small" garden project in our front yard. There is one corner of the front yard that has the best light in the entire yard and I very much wanted to clear the very old yucca plant, weeds, vinca, and no longer flowering bulbs and give it new life. I hacked, and hacked, and hacked at the yucca, eventually creating a hole about four feet long, three feet wide and two feet deep, pulling out all of the exposed root. Yucca roots run deep. I called a gardener friend and he said it was probably fine if I left the rest of it in the ground.

I only half finished that corner garden project because of more pressing yard projects and then vacation season. Sometime in the last couple weeks I realized the yucca had grown back strong and healthy!!! So today I went to the local garden shop and asked for help. They gave me a product that I had to paint on the remaining the roots deep in the ground (knowing it would be impossible for me to pull it all out). This afternoon I opened up the hole again, cleared out the new growth, sat inside the hole and painted poison on every bit of root I could find. I'm so stinkin' sore. And John reminded me that last time I wrestled with the yucca I was sore for two days!

Before our landlords bought this house a couple years ago (unfortunately they spent one year working very hard on making the house "livable" before moving overseas for work), the house belonged to an elderly woman who had let most things go, including the yard. The Kropps did TONS of work in the yard before moving including taking out a big tree in the backyard. We tenderly cared for the new grass put in its place and planted a raised bed full of perennials. But every time we turn around there are new overgrown weeds trying to establish themselves as small trees. I'm scared to even enter the back left corner of the backyard! Weeds taller than me.

Good news is that I scored a MAJOR bargain on end of the season perennials and now I have plenty of flowers for next year for front and backyard! My hope is that I can give the house back to the Kropps having defeated the weeds and with beautiful full (low-maintenance) gardens.

Backyard before tree removal.

Backyard after tree removal. That is the flower garden. I just purchased creeping flowers to plant at the top of the wall to creep down and cover it. I think I actually have to plant them in the neighbor's dirt. Don't tell them, OK?

Acadia National Park

2009-07-31T15:18:00.004-04:00

My eagle scout husband is an avid outdoors man. I like the outdoors - would much rather be outside than inside - but alway require having indoor plumbing nearby. So John has accepted that camping with me means that we sleep within 30 ft of the car and about 100 feet from the bathroom. And that makes me a happy camper. Along with one outlet for a hair dryer. I know, high maintenance.

I loved Maine and would go back every summer! Here are some picture highlights.

Started the Maine experience with a stop at LL Bean. Bought a new rain coat and a screen house tent after driving in torrential rain which was expected to continue all weekend!

This is a sandbar that appears every afternoon during low tide. For a couple hours you can walk across to the Bar Island and hike to the top. The picture of Bar Harbor and Cadillac Mtn in the previous post was taken from the summit of Bar Island. When we first began to cross the sandbar the tide had just gone out and we would walk, then wait for more land, then hop over water, then wait. By the time we crossed back, there were cars that had driven out on the sandbar.
This is me looking for shells and pocketing them. John was horrified that I was stealing from a National park. Maybe he took the picture as evidence?

On the summit of Cadillac Mountain. We mostly saw fog.

Hiking around Jordon Pond. Finished the hike at the Jordon Pond Tea House with very famous popovers and lobster stew. My kind of hiking!

Baker Summer

2009-07-31T14:56:00.004-04:00

OK, it's time for some updates. Summer 2009 has flown by considering that John and I took three vacations in six weeks. With the 2010 Census approaching John was limited to taking all his leave time during the summer and around everyone else's so it ended up being squished together. Two quick trips and one longer one gave us some good time with both of our famiilies and just each other. Below is one picture from each trip, and I'll post some more.

First, we went to MI to visit my family and while there attended a wedding party for my uncle. I love this picture of my grandparents and great Aunt Mina (even though she's a bit fuzzy.).

Over 4th of July, John and I went camping in Maine. I've wanted to go to Maine for a really long time and it was so fun to have this new type of adventure with John. This picture is of Acadia National Park. We camped just outside the park.

Our last trip was to the Outer Banks of NC with John's family for a week of fun in the sun. We had 2 big beach houses and about 20 people. Fun, fun, fun.

Missing People Everywhere

2009-03-07T15:07:00.002-05:00

I'm trying to accept that no matter where I live on the earth, I am always going to be far away from people I dearly love. Here is the list of people that is running through my mind (and don't be sad if you aren't on the list - this is just for today):
Amy in Atlanta; Mom & Michael in MI; McCunes in Denver; Lora in the Springs; all of Chattanooga; Mandy in St Louis; Rachael and Tom in London; Agnes, Andy, and the girls Bible study in Glasgow; Sarah out west; nieces & nephews in MD and TX (Happy Birthday Judah!); Mary who is flying to Ukraine tonight; and Terry in M-i-s-s-i-s-s-i-p-p-i!
Couldn't the world just be the size of New Jersey?

Nursery Murals

2009-02-21T20:15:00.004-05:00

We moved into a new church facility about four months ago. Recently somebody offered to paint murals on the nursery wall in hopes of drumming up some business. Jessi Gelber is an incredible artist and is being extremely generous in donating her time and talent to make our nursery rooms a more fun place to be. Here is a small sample of her work thus far. She began in the Baby Chicks and Loving Lambs rooms which explains the farm theme.

THANK YOU JESSI!

Note: This painting has changed numerous times and looks much different than when I took this picture!

I thought this cow might jump off the wall when I first saw it.

Actually a painting of Jessi's pug.

Can't figure out how to turn this picture - but it's my favorite!

Sore Losers Are Sometimes Determined by Birth Order

2009-01-03T18:48:00.003-05:00

This is a conversation between my sister and her daughter Ana (age 4) following my sister winning a game of Memory. I should add that Ana has a strong inferiority complex that she is not as smart as her almost six year old sister, Nadia.

Ana (whining): I'm not smart enough.
Lisamarie: Why do you think that Ana?
Ana: Because if I was smart enough I would win every game of Memory!
Lisamarie: But Ana, Mommy is smart too and so sometimes she wins at Memory.

All I have to say is....Like Aunt, like niece! (It's really hard to be the second girl!)

Ana is the middle flower girl. Nadia on the right.

Back to Blogging

2009-01-03T18:41:00.003-05:00

So I'm back to blogging....life seems a little more under control and I need to make time for some things such as this. Here's the ramble for today.
John got me Settlers of Catan Traders & Barbarians for Christmas. He got me some other nice gifts but now I think he realizes, there was no need to purchase anything other than this game!
So this is what our dining room table has looked like since Christmas.

Playing games is really good for my sanctification. It is amazing how quickly I pout and crave revenge when John cuts off my raod or steals a port. And the game is absolutely addictive. I'm wondering if I'll burn out on it.....but can you burn out on an addiction?

New Church Facility

2008-08-14T13:52:00.002-04:00

In a few weeks our church will be moving into a new facility we are leasing. We have renovated the 2nd floor of a unfinished light industrial building to meet our needs as a growing congregation. We are so excited about having our own space! We currently meet in a university on Sunday moornings. I am eager to establish Sunday school in classrooms where we don't have to operate out of bins each week! You can view some short videos of the facility here. The video of the children's rooms is in the nursery corridor. Way too much yellow right now! A couple of the yellow rooms are actually supposed to be green and they will be repainted soon.

After building the playground at LMPC I swore that I would never build anything again.....and now I remember why.

Goodbye to Dave

2008-08-11T21:08:00.002-04:00

We spent the weekend furiously unpacking the first floor so that we could host a dessert on Sunday night. Our friend Dave is leaving this week for a year of mission work in East Asia. A few of us got tegether to hear about his mission and pray for him. It was a sweet time of fellowship.

John and I hope this house will be used to bless others in every way possible. Since returning from Scotland my "revolving front door" has not worked too well and I'm a bit out of the habit of using my home to minister to people. The extra space in the house will be wonderful for hosting a new fellowship group we are shepherding called Crossroads. It's for twenty something singles and marrieds. We started it just after returning from our honeymoon and it has been gaining some momentum over the summer. Our first topic was a discussion series to coincide with the summer sermon series on Biblical Sexuality. How's that for an easy starter topic?

Home, Sweet Home

2008-08-11T20:54:00.003-04:00

John and I moved into this house last Friday. Our friends from church moved to Japan for three years and we jumped at the chance to "take care" of their house for them. It puts us in one place for three years considering we're not sure we will stay in this area after the next census. Our new home is in Glen Rock, NJ. Now I have a small commute to work - about 20 minutes when there are no traffic jams. John enjoyed a very short bus commute during our couple months in the honeymoon apartment. Short is relative - about 45 minutes from the front door to his midtown office. Now he's back to 1:15 commute by train. But we both love having all this space, especially for visitors!

Supposedly Glen Rock has an amazing public pool. Everybody keeps asking "Have you been to the pool yet?" Next summer.

Welcome Home Evans Family

2008-07-25T07:28:00.003-04:00

My teammates from Scotland, Bill & Dana Evans and their kids Madison, Slaton, and Lily, have just arrived back in America after finishing their tenure in Scotland. I made a whirlwind trip down to Annapolis, MD to spend with them. The girls shopped and dined in beautiful Annapolis while the boys went fishing and caught losts of fish for dinner and a sunburn!

I love you guys - it was soooooo good to see you!

Madison & Lily

Madison, Lily, & Slaton

Dana and her friend Jenny.

Loving this Saturday

2008-07-19T08:34:00.002-04:00

Since we returned from our honeymoon, every Saturday has been packed with events both in town and out of town. It has been exhausting considering it is my one day off and our evenings have been very busy too. Today is our first free Saturday!!!! And it's the only free Saturday for about another month. We're staying home to work on packing (we move in a few weeks) but then we'll have a date tonight to go see Mama Mia. Last night we also had free and couldn't decide what to do to relax. I as in a mood - didn't really know what I wanted and nothing really sounded good. So we played a game and then made a quick run to Rita's water ice for Italian Ice. A plus for living in this part of the country.

Back to the busyness. Can't remember the text off the top of my head but there is a verse in the Bible about a husband having a year off from war after getting married. I'm adopting that philosophy as much as possible. While the ancient rule was probably intended for producing an heir (not our intention for now), I think we should be able to say "no" to as much as possible while we are busy with merging lives and learning how to be married. These new waters were riding in have not been overwhelming to navigate, but I do want to enjoy the ride a little bit.

Hawaii Dream

2008-07-09T08:33:00.005-04:00

John and I had a wonderful honeymoon on the big Island of Hawaii. Here are a few of my favorite pics.

View from our room!

One of the pools at the resort. We hung out on the chairs on the right side of this pic.

There were about 7 dolphins living at our resort. You could pay huge dollars to swim with them. Instead we chose to have lunch watching other people swim with them. It was fun to watch them interact with their trainers. I realized dolphins are a lot like puppies. Maybe I should ask for a dolphin instead of a spaniel.......

The resort was huge and they had these boats and a monorail to take us from one end of the resort to the other.

This was one of our beautiful sunset dinners. We ate like kings during our trip. The resort had five great restuarants and we found this great place in town from our tourbook. John totally spoiled us with these meals and we had to roll off the plane in Newark.

Rianforest Bay in Hilo (there is another name for this bay but I can't remember it.) How wonderful to go for a hike in the rainforest and then stumble upon this bay.

Reception at The Old 76 House

2008-06-18T22:02:00.005-04:00

From what I hear, the food was amazing. I know the cake was amazing. To me, the memories are the most amazing part. Here are a few pics of the fun had by all!

The Gathering

2008-06-18T21:24:00.008-04:00

John studied history at The College of William and Mary and I am a survivor of five years of family Civil War vacations. We both love early American history. The historic town of Tappan, NY was a perfect setting for our wedding. Tappan is famous for the capture, imprisonment, trial, and hanging of British Major John Andre, co-conspirator to Benedict Arnold. Click here to read more and see the buildings where we had our celebration. Early in the day we took pictures at the DeWint house and the reception was at the 76 House.

After the wedding service, John and I went to sign our marriage certificate while the guest gathered in the front of the church. Bridesmaids and flower girls handed out bells to for the guests to ring when the bride and groom appeared. We came out to greet the guests, then led them down the street to the reception at the 76 House with the ringing of church bells accompanying our walk.

Savoring this Particular Worship Service

2008-06-18T20:40:00.013-04:00

John and I wanted our wedding to be very Christ-focused. Favorite hymns, favorite pastors leading worship (Will Reinmuth and Joe Novenson), the presence of beloved family and friends, a litany of prayer the congregation prayed over us, John's sister singing the benediction, my beloved standing by my side - all these things made my heart swell up in gratitude to my Heavenly Father. Here are a few pictures of the worship service.

Flower girls walking down the aisle.

(There were five in all!)

Pastor Joe and Christine walking down aisle. (My favorite picture!)

During the service.

Introducing the Bride and Groom to the congregation.
(Don't you love the smile on Pastor Joe's face!)

Recessional as Mr. & Mrs. John Tower Baker II

Stillness in the church after the guest leave.

Chapter 2 - Resurrection

2008-06-09T22:46:00.003-04:00

Dead Chuffed Life has been resurrected now that I have interesting things to say again (maybe). And another character has been added. My new husband. Mr John Baker. My Mr. John. More pictures and tales will be posted soon.

A Peculiar Spring

2007-04-15T20:17:00.000-04:00

By the end of February (when I stepped off the plane from my UK trip) the weather had already turned balmy and the daffodils began to bloom, beautiful adding color and life to the barren winter deadness. Temperatures continued to rise feeling more like June than March. One weekend it was 92F as I drove home from Atlanta to Chattanooga. The warmth of the sun and added daylight was invigorating to life in the midst of some lifely chaos. I moved out of my cozy guest house on Signal Mtn and began a house sitting stint on Lookout Mountain. Again I am released from the dominion of "stuff" as it is all in boxes, though not yet in storage. I was concerned about the stress of "transitional living" but it has been a good move. I think I was tempting myself to be settled on Signal Mountain when I knew that I was not settled in every other sphere of life after returning from the mission field. My goal now is to not unpack in Chattanooga as I am seeking a ministry job and there are not any here. Temporary housing has helped set my mind on the bigger changes that are about to come and not get too comfortable in the routine of life. In one sense I feel like I have finally come home since I am now sleeping on Lookout Mountain. Yet, I think I have accepted that I don't really fit in this place any longer. I've changed too much in the last couple years. But I will relish the days that I have left here and enjoy the time with the people that I love so much. And the time may be longer than I think I have, but if that's the case, I might end up sleeping in my car soon! ....So the peculiarity about the season is about more than the weather. It's about perspectives changing, standing in the gap and living by faith when nothing makes sense, and cherishing fleeting moments. I should have cherished those peculiar warm days in March. It has snowed twice in April!

Updates on Life

2007-02-04T10:45:00.000-05:00

Really, I have not meant to be so neglectful of this blog or my friendships with my readers. I thought I would return by giving you some updates on life and what I am learning. Not much has changed concerning daily life. I still go to the Monday - Friday job of "too many papers" at Covenant and try so hard to pay attention to the thousands of details this job requires. Still living in the little house but that will soon end so I can live closer to work. And I'm very excited about a trip back to the UK in 10 days time. I'l be visiting friends in London, Nairn, Dunfermline and Glasgow. I have all kinds of mixed feelings about the trip. I fear it might be a bit of an emotional roller coaster, which is to be expected. But mostly I expect that it will be an opportunity for me to take a deep breath and relish in the what I love most in life, ministering to people's souls. That is what Scotland was about for me and that is what I miss the most about it now.

That brings me to what I am learning. I have not been easily accepting of the Lord's discipline in my life this past year. It has been His desire to refine me to be holy through all kinds of trials and through giving me a time of rest. Just being content to rest has been so hard when I desperately want to return to full time ministry. Recently I was encouraged by a Andrew Murray quote given to me by a friend.

In time of trouble, say "First, he brought me here. It is by his will I am in this strait place; in that I will rest." Next, "He will keep me here is his love, and give me the grace in this trial to behave as his child." Then say, "He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me lessons he intends me to learn, and working in me the grace he means to bestow." And last, say, "In his good time he can bring me out again. How and when, he knows." Therefore, say, "I am here (1) by God's appointment, (2) in his keeping, (3) under his training, (4) for his time."

So even in this "job of too many papers" there are lessons, many lessons, to be learned. And I have faith that it won't be forever.......

Hi-ho, Hi-ho, Off to Michigan I go!

2006-12-27T20:45:00.000-05:00

I just took down my beautiful Christmas tree. It was definitely dead, but felt like plastic as most of the needles stayed put while I ripped the lights off the branches. Still have to clean the kitchen, pay some bills, finish laundry, and pack a suitcase before bed. I drive to Michigan tomorrow. Yipee! I only wish it were going to be restful. But I'm excited to catch up with friends and family. Hope to see some of you there!

My favorite things

2006-12-25T22:41:00.000-05:00

These are a few of my favorite things.....at Christmas!
~ The Divine Family, the Hertzog Family, and the Fisher Family and all the fun memories with them during Christmas 2006
~ Lookout Mountain Church Christmas Eve Service with the glow of candle light in the sanctuary during Silent Night
~ Each person holding their own candle during Silent Night, even when the wax drips down and scalds your fingers.
~ Candy Cane flavored Christmas Coffee from Walmart
~ Dan Fisher's new membership in the Scotch club and he even shares with me!
~ Children opening their presents so fast you can't tell who got what!
~ Everything peppermint!
~ Families coming home to Lookout Mountain and being able to say hello to people you have not seen in years.
~ My stainglass houses and fresh greens & hollyberries decorating the house.
~ The angels telling the shepherds to not be afraid.

Back by not so popular demand

2006-12-19T21:31:00.000-05:00

So there really are people besides my mother who read this blog! Thanks for the recent messages urging me to get writing again (all three of them). Life has been lots of fun since I've last posted which has left me little time for the computer. The fun has brought some friends to Chattanooga including my best friend from college Michelle and her kids, and also my best friend from Scotland, Agnes. Yes, the one my car is named after. I'll try to post some pictures of our adventures but I always seem to hit some snags doing that.

In the meantime, here is my funny little adventure today. I can barely handle Walmart since returning to America for a myriad of reasons, but mostly because it is just too overwhelming. Today I was acquiesced to stop at Wallyworld to pick up envelopes and address labels for Christmas cards. The alternative was going out to the Hamilton Place Mall area which, at this time of year, I call "Hamilton Hell". While I walked the ailes with a glazed over look on my face I suddenly remembered that I needed to buy toothpaste. This was all too exciting because I have been waiting to buy toothpaste for months. The last time I bought some at the grocery in Glasgow there was a two for one deal and the same boring flavor has lasted me most of the year. A couple months ago I had to pick up some toothpaste for Stacy at the store and was amazed at the choices. It may not seem like a big deal to you, but I've been looking forward to buying a particular brand and flavor of toothpaste for a couple months.

So today was the big day for buying toothpaste. To say I was completely overwhelmed in the toothpaste aisle is an understatement. There were way too many brands and flavors and I could not find what I wanted - the very toothpaste I had picked out months ago. I was in shock that one store could have so many kinds of toothpaste and as I stood in awe I began to count the different containers! I stopped when I got to 119! I had yet to count the kids flavors and the special denture stuff. There was another woman there who was obviously very overwhelmed as well. She turned and me some magazine said that Colgate's Luminous Enamel Strengthening toothpaste was rated the very best so that is what she was getting. So I got it too. Now my teeth will be luminous and my breath will smell like Crystal Clean Mint! I really hope this is the last "I'm back in America learning how to shop again...." experience I will have. They have big stores in Britain. It's just that nothing compares to Wallyworld. 119. All I needed was one.

PS. Since I just checked this with spell check, I now know how to spell toothpaste. There is no "e" in the middle!

Autumn in Chattanooga

2006-11-05T18:48:00.000-05:00

Can I drive you to Chattanooga
Where the city in October looks like fire
Changing lanes on this restless highway
Between this living and desire

These lyrics are from Sandra McCracken's new album Gravity Love. Every time I hop in the car I turn up that song and marvel at the autumnal beauty this year. The leaves on the trees have been especially vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and red. Now that the colors have reached their peak, the mountains really do appear to be on fire. In a matter of days it will be over, but for now I soak in the beauty and think about the creativity of the creator. He must love all these colors he chose to splash our city this time of year. It is all so majestic and grandeur. And to think that He loves me even more.

Books I'm Reading

2006-10-30T21:56:00.000-05:00

Current Reading:
To Own a Dragon: Reflections of Growing Up Without a Father, by Donald Miller
Words in a French Life: Lessons in Love and Language from the South of France, by Kristen Espinasse
Real Sex, by Lauren Winner
Confessions of a Shopaholic, by Sophie Kinsella

Recently purchased but still on the shelf:
Seeing Through Cynicism, by Dick Keyes
Instruments in the Hands of the Redeemer, by Paul Tripp
Salvation Belongs to the Lord, by John Frame

Chapel Nerd Lives

2006-10-30T19:51:00.000-05:00

When I was a Covenant student I was a secret chapel nerd. I say secret because it really wasn't cool to love chapel. We were required to attend chapel everyday and were allotted a certain number of skips each semester. I usually had a few leftover each semester. Now that I work at Covenant I get to go to chapel whenever I want! (And I even get paid to do it now!)

Today and tomorrow D.A. Carson is speaking in chapel for the Reformation Day lectures. This morning I was telling my work study student how excited I was about hearing him speak. I actually got giddy about it and then embarrassed. But it really was awesome! He taught from Psalm 1. I was surprised at what a smooth speaker he is - easy to listen and process what he is teaching as he digs deeply in the scripture. I've been blessed to hear some great teaching from great minds, but most of the time I feel like I have to work very hard when listening to their teaching. Carson was intellectually stimulating and spiritually encouraging. My soul felt refreshed "like a tree planted in streams of water."

Fireside family time

2006-10-13T21:44:00.000-04:00

Anna called me a little while ago to invite me to join the family outside. They had made a fire and were roasting S'mores! Yum! It was the perfect fall, err winter, evening. (It feels as though winter arrived last night and it was only 37F when I left for work this morning.) So I bundled up in layers and a scarf to join the family. We roasted marshmallows and squished them in between chocolate squares and graham crackers. We laughed at Anna's ghost stories and relished the warmth of the fire and tilted our heads back to stare at a sky filled with bright stars. It was all very lovely.

Ramblings after Philly

2006-10-13T19:28:00.000-04:00

Last weekend I visited my friend Monica in Philadelphia. It was an awesome weekend filled with sweet fellowship with new and old friends, visiting churches, and walking around the city. Monica works for World Harvest Missions and it was great to talk with her about missionary work in Europe.

A conference at Westminster Seminary was the main reason for my visit. The Women in the Word conference is a take off from the Proclamation Trust Conference in England that I have attended. Both conferences are designed to sharpen Bible teasching skills. This time I prepared a 5 minute talk on Joel 3 - yikes - prophecy! It was hard to get my head into it but I think I got it. With only 5 minutes I decided to forgo the illustrations in order to give more careful attention to the thrust of the text. In our first meeting I found out that my group leader puts great emphasis on using illustrations and even teaches pastors how to develop illustrations in their preaching! Oops! Through these conferences I sharpened my skills in studying/teaching an epistle, O.T. Narrative, and now prophecy. So I wonder what will be next - poetry or gospels? After prophecy I'm more confident to dable in a new genre.

Scare in the night

2006-10-01T22:57:00.000-04:00

When I lived in Glasgow I was always hopeful to fall asleep on weekend nights before the pub traffic picked up on the streets. If I was fast asleep then I could probably sleep through the party that continued on Alexandra Parade after the pubs closed. Last night I was just sleep when I heard a noise that made me jump about five feet high! There was a Teh! Then Teh, Teh, Teh, Teh, Teh, Teh on my roof. Who knew that little acorns could make so much noise as they roll down the roof! Finally I fell back asleep only to be awakened 2 hours later by crashing thunder. I laid in bed and counted the seconds between the lightening and thunder (1 second = 1 mile, count 1 mississippi, 2 mississippi, 3....). It was three miles away. Don't think the lightening will hit my little mountain house. And then back to sleep I went.
Acorns and thunder. Quite a change from neds yelling in the street.

Dum Dums and Smarties

2006-09-27T15:48:00.000-04:00

The other day I was waiting for something at the bank. I spotted a big basket of Dum Dum suckers (lollies) in the waiting area and proceeded to fish out my favorite kinds. I was so excited because the suckers brought back fond childhood memories of going to the bank with my mom. We always got Dum Dums from the teller and it was the highlight of the day! I started thinking about how Dum Dums at the bank are an American tradition and wondered if they provoke such enjoyment for others. If so, I thought they would be the perfect candy for the basket in our office. I was recently given the responsibility of picking up some candy. I wanted something unique to our office and something that I would not be tempted to eat all day long since the candy basket sits on my desk.

When I bought the candy at Walmart I realized that bags of Smarties were just as cheap as the Dum Dums so I loaded up on both of them. It wasn't until I got to the office and somebody pointed out the hilarity of my purchased that I realized what I had done. Dum Dums and Smarties? So now it is a passsive aggressive stress management technique for me. When a student is annoying me I say "How about a Dum Dum?" When I'm impressed with them I say "How about a Smartie?" When they ask if they can have a piece of candy, I say "Choose wisely."

Stuck on a beautiful day

2006-09-27T12:31:00.000-04:00

We have had a succession of beautiful days on Lookout Mountain and I hate being stuck in an office. Especially now because we are a bit slow and I seem to have a hard time coming up with more work. This morning there was a lot of slow traffic over the bridge during my commute. When I got to the bridge I realized it was because everyone slowing down to look at the stunning sunrise over the mountains.
So I was just thinking about where I would rather be on a beautiful day......I decided I wanted to be in Edinburgh Grassmarket at my favorite restaurant Petit Paris. This picture was taken there last spring. I just noticed for the first time the accordion players behind me.
I'm about to get some fresh air while I make the 30 second walk to French class. Maybe I can convince le Professeur to have class outside!

Is the weekend here yet?

2006-09-11T21:32:00.000-04:00

Today was a typical Monday. It seemed that everyone in the office had a hard time getting in gear for the week. In addition, emotions were running high with the anniversary of September 11th. There were moments of silence, times of prayer, time spent recalling what we were doing when we heard the news, etc.

For me the real work began when I left the office. Stacy had a meeting tonight so it was me alone on the homefront with three children and lots of homework. I cooked dinner while helping oversee Anna and her math homework. (Overseeing mostly meant keeping her from killing her brother who was pestering her to no end!). Dinner was served, dishes were cleaned and two loads of laundry started. Anna & Megan continued on homework, Luke and I headed out to the little house of learning therapy. Anna followed for her therapy - both learning and vision. Then back to the big house for checking homework, preparing Anna for her science quiz, working on a rainforest project, continuing laundry, evening showers, vacuuming the kitchen, and planning for the week ahead. I collapsed at 9pm to watch the President's address. Soon the laundry will be done and I'll head to bed. I can't wait to go to work tomorrow so that I can rest!

Hear no, See no, Say no....

2006-09-03T19:21:00.000-04:00

I've been going through pictures from Scotland and this is a favorite. We could call it "Hear No Evil, See No Evil, Say No Evil". (What exactly is Roddy doing?)I miss all three of these fine men very much.

Interestly enough, this picture was taken on a walk in Glasgow's Merchant City during the Festival of Lights. Last week my Time Magazine had a small blurb on the artist who created that light show. If I was better at this I could include a link to tel you more about him (how do I do that?). Och, who cares!

Grace, Agnes, and the little house

2006-09-03T15:13:00.000-04:00

This is my grandmother, Grace Lamson. In July we had a lovely family reunion on Lake Huron in Michigan. I love this picture of Grandma all wrapped up on the windy beach.

This is my little house. I've completely killed the two hanging baskets that were once lush and full of tiny white flowers. Actually, they needed more sun and nothing I could do would help them. Since this picture I have a new permanent cement step and soon will have new landscaping! (And new baskets!)

This is my BIG white car named Agnes. I'm not usually one for naming cars but it was the only way I could cope with driving a car this huge. This car used to belong to my grandparents and it is the classic pensioners car in America (also the common police car). My dear friend Agnes in Scotland used to joke that she was way to young for her name. I am way too young to drive this car, hence the name.

More coming soon

2006-08-27T21:47:00.000-04:00

Wow! It's been a long time since I posted something. I promise to write more soon. Can't write now because I have to go study for French class. Yes, I'm trying to take Intermediate French I. A class that at one time would have been a walk in the park. But 14 years after high school I don't seem to remember much of my vocab and the comprehension is a nightmare. What was I thinking?

The students are back on campus and my office is buzzing every minute of the day! I'm loving it....I feel like I have 950 potential new friends!

Laugh out loud

2006-08-08T13:27:00.000-04:00

Luke is always making me laugh! A few days ago I told him to go in the other room to set up for Neuronet (his learning therapy program). I walk in the room and found him like this. How could you not love this super duper kid!

Mountain Top High

2006-08-05T17:59:00.000-04:00

I started my job at Covenant College this week. I often describe my time at Covenant as a "mountain top" experience (no pun intended). I loved my years at Covenant and now I'm so thankful to be back in that community. My work mates are great and have been so patient and helpful as I learn the ropes. I went to my first staff meeting yesterday and thought it was odd that I already know half the staff or more at this new workplace. The ladies in the mail room told me that I don't look a day older than when I was a student (they're my new best friends!). And of course my favorite time of day is lunch! It is a great opportunity to catch up with mountain friends and soon I'll be making new student friends to meet for lunch.

I'm still trying to help Stacy's children so I'm trying to keep a "working mom" mind set. (Great considering Luke has been telling people I'm their asst mom!) Every night I go home to help the family. These kids are busy, busy, busy. And I love being with them. Soon I'll try to have a social life too. I even got an invite to an outdoor concert last night but then the storms rolled in.

Here is a picture of the campus and building I work in (Carter Hall). The top mountain in the first picture is where I live, Signal Mtn. So I go down one mountain, across the TN river, and up another! Thank God for NPR!

If only I could find my life

2006-08-05T17:46:00.000-04:00

I've been meaning to post some pictures from my recent family reunion in Michigan and my little house. But since much of life is still packed up I can't find my cord that connects my camera to the computer. I was delighted to find my card reader only to then find out that my card reader doesn't actually read the card in my camera! (Why do I have that card reader?)
This morning I was running around trying to get ready to go to a baby shower. I couldn't find tape or an enclosure card for the gift. Finally I found a box of stationary I pack up in Scotland only to open it and realize the enclosure cards were not packed in there. I screamed outloud. This is everyday life and is very frustrating. Much of it is my fault for not getting it all done - but I was supposed to be resting in July. Still can't find the camera cord. It may be in the last suitcase from Scotland that Fed Ex will deliver in the next few days. Then I will also have my cooking utensils which will make kitchen work much easier. And one more trip to Ikea should complete most of what I need to get things out of boxes and put on shelves, namely bookshelves....... why do I keep buying books?!

What was I thinking?

2006-08-05T16:56:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I ran into the local Christian bookstore during a horrible thunderstorm. I've been avoiding this store since I came back to Chattanooga but I had to buy a present there for a friend. The lightening outside was so bad I thought I was safer by killing time in the store instead of returning to my car. So I perused the aisles and was reminded just how much bad Christian writing is marketed to Americans.

But in the newly released section I found a book called What Was I Thinking? Things I've Learned Since I Knew It All by Steve Brown. I know that Steve Brown is pretty well respected in my circles so I picked it up. And then I couldn't put it down. Brown describes himself as the most religious person he knows. A seminary professor, Christian radio talk show host, a minister - all of his life centers on the study of God and helping others to know God. Yet in the introduction he writes, "Theology...., a belief statement....., and propositions...... Are all useless if they don't lead us to the reality which is God and to the astonishment that ought to be a regular occurrence in the believers life." Theology builds a foundation for the life of the believer but reality of God is what teaches a Christian the tune to sing. Brown says that many know the words but few know the tune. This book was written for people who have the foundation yet struggle in their faith to sing the praises that one only has after encountering the living God and finding that He truly is the source of all delight.

I am one of those people. This past year I have struggled in my spiritual life more than ever. Life was difficult and with it came difficult questions. I could give you all the acceptable Bible answers to the questions, but none of them seemed to explain anything. I was faced with my own unbelief and was overwhelmed. I felt like Jacob wrestling with God demanding for God to reveal Himself on my terms, with means that I would recognize. Eventually I released and just trusted that He would restore my soul. And He is, and He will. I love this book because it was written for people who know all the answers but struggle to believe them in their hearts. For Christians who look for the love of God because they don't understand that He is love. And for those that know you can't confine God to the theology books but don't yet know how to sing the tune.

Favorite quote of Chapter One ~
"I often say to my students when they are especially strident about a subject, 'You haven't lived long enough, sinned big enough, or failed nearly enough to even have an opinion on that.' Well, I have lived long enough, sinned big enough, and failed enough. So I want to share with you what I know about God - which, frankly, isn't as much as I once thought it was."

Ramblings

2006-07-15T13:18:00.000-04:00

I don't really have anything to write about so I thought I'd just ramble a bit. I got up early this morning and feel like I have accomplished so much for a Saturday. I have a temporary barking alarm clock who woke me at half 6. Soon after I started sanding the peeling paint off a rocking chair that I plan to paint red to go in my sitting room. This is one of the many projects that I need to finish before starting work. I'm also painting the wall tile in my bathroom and finishing my unpacking of books. Ughhh....I'm sick of packing and unpacking. Later this week I head up to Michigan for my family reunion. Dreading the packing for that trip, which should be relatively simple.

Tomorrow is Sunday. I'm learning how to adjust to not working for the church and having more alone time on Sundays. A couple Sundays ago I went to my usual 9:30 worship service and then went out to my car to go home. I sat in the car thinking "What is wrong and why do I feel guilty?" I realized that it is the first time in 6 years that I am not working on Sundays. Most Sundays in Scotland I would go to somebody's house for lunch but that is not common here so I find myself in alone in the afternoon after church. But now I'm getting into the swing of things. I've been invited to an adult Sunday school class that I think I will like. And my friend Martha invited me over for lunch tomorrow. It is always delightful to visit with her so I am very much looking forward to it.

I'm sitting in a coffee shop typing this and there is another woman talking to her friend VERY loudly. I want to tell you to talk quieter. Does she realize that everybody can hear about her fight with her boyfriend? Americans are so loud (me included)!

I GOT A JOB! I'm the new face of the records office at Covenant College! That means that I smile at people and ask them if I can help and I answer the phones. I love the people in the office. Three of them I already know and the fourth person is British! I think they were more concerned that they got a team member that they liked than what skills I actually possess. My goal is to master the xerox machine in this office. Making copies has always been my weakest skill in office work. I'm excited to work in an office again and thrilled that it is at my beloved Covenant!

The next big decision is whether or not I should get a dog. I have my eye on a few small breeds. Any input would be welcome! All the input from Stacy's children has been very positive with many offers to help!

"Southerners speak music"

2006-07-14T09:13:00.000-04:00

Mark Twain said "Southerners speak music". Hearing a soft Georgia lilt is almost like a song, a song that has brought me much comfort lately. But what I love most are the southern idioms like "He was as nervous as a long tailed cat in a room full of rockers" or "mad enough to spit nails". It is just fun to hear these phrases again. I laughed out loud the other day when I heard a kid at the pool turn to a friend and say "You swim slower than Christmas comes!"
That's my new favorite!

The melting of my heart

2006-07-09T17:54:00.000-04:00

Because of some real struggles over the past year I've had a difficult time going to church. I won't go into all the details but Sundays became a real battle in my heart and I felt like most of the time I was losing the battle. It was difficult because for my whole life I had loved going to church more than anything else. By the time I returned to the states I felt like my heart had turned into stone - so cold and hard. But I held unto the promise in 1 Peter that after having suffered for a while, Christ himself will restore my soul.

I haven't been completely restored but I have felt the melting effect from the warmth of the Holy Spirit illuminating my heart with truth and love. Sometimes all I can do in the presence of the Savior is sit and weep. Much of the melting comes from the welcome home hugs, words of thankfulness that I have returned to Chattanooga, recognizing God's generous provision of a home church family that loves me because they dearly love Jesus.

See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone.
Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come,
the cooing of doves is heard in our land.
The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance.
Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me." Song of Solomon 2:11-13

The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17

Americans say funny things....

2006-07-09T17:38:00.000-04:00

I've already written about the random woman who told me to go check out some shirt because she thought it would look flattering on me. It still feels odd that the people I encounter out in public want to share so much of themselves. Scots are friendly, and Glaswegians the friendliest of them all, but the average person working the till would not give you more than a 'hello' and 'have a nice day'. So imagine how uncomfortable I was during this recent interaction (my words are in italics).

I was paying for a purchase at Home Depot (B&Q to the Brits). The lady, probably in her 50's, working the till said to me "I just saw a guy I went to high school with and his wife. They were talking to me and I looked at him and thought 'You look older than dirt'. I just kept looking at him and wanted to say 'What happened to you?'" Then she continued "But I'm saved." What? "I'm saved. I love the Lord." Oh. "And I know the Lord doesn't want me to look like that so it won't happen." Well I know quite a few people who love the Lord and don't look all that great. "Well then I would wonder what they are doing to themselves to make them look like that." My purchase was complete so I wished the lady a wonderful day and left the store. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry! She obviously has a very fine line between faith and works. And in the end, santification does not cure acne!

Search for a slamming screen door

2006-06-18T19:54:00.000-04:00

I wrote this a couple weeks ago and never posted it.....
I've become a fan of Bill Bryson in the last few years. In his book Notes From a Big Country he writes about his readjustment to American culture after living in England for over 20 years. I think I'll reread it this summer. In one chapter he writes about the sweet sound of a slamming screen door in the summertime. The kind of door with a wooden frame that creaks as it opens and closes. Maybe he says that you can only find these doors in America, I don't know. But I never ran across one in the UK. I remember the same sound from my childhood summers at the my grandparents lake house in northern Michigan. Hearing that sound usually meant that Grandpa was done cleaning the fish for dinner. I can imagine it now.....
I won't make it up north to my grandparents house this summer. But I'll search high and low for the slamming screen door and revel in the memories it invokes. I'll sit nearby and drink a cold glass of lemonade and drink in the sun.

And for the rest of the story......
IT didn't take me long to find my screen door and the good news is that it is on my house!!!! I'm in the process of moving into Stacy's guest house. I've decided to keep calling it the guest house in hopes that it will make me feel like I'm always on holiday. And now every time I enter or leave the house I will hear that beautiful creak and soft slam of the screen door. Sheer joy. Plenty of sun here, now I need to find some lemonade!

What's next?

2006-06-15T20:46:00.000-04:00

I'm still in Michigan at the missionary renewal program. After a fun weekend in Chicago visiting my friend Sasha this week has eased up a little in intensity. I feel like I've had a little holiday taking the opportunity in the afternoons to kayak or fish in the lake. I caught 2 "keepers" the other day. My mother said they could have been very expensive fish since I was taking my chance fishing without a license! First time I've done that - nobody tell Grandpa!

Tomorrow I fly back to Chattanooga. I feel like I'm starting life again. Not exactly so, but I am starting a new phase in life. Right now I only have short term plans to tell. I'll be living on Signal Mtn in the guest house of my friend Stacy. For the summer I plan to help Stacy with the kids and catch up with friends. I'll start looking for a job but I have no idea what I want to do. (I'd love suggestions!) I thought this would be a good time to take a little break from ministry while I reevaluate, recharge, and make some plans for the future. I had hoped to start at Covenant Seminary this next year but some other training opportunities have caught my eye and I want to take some time to ponder and figure out what is the best fit if I am going to continue in ministry.

I'll be writing soon from Chattanooga - home sweet home!

Why is she talking to me?

2006-06-05T19:44:00.000-04:00

After spending 2 years in Scotland I have become so accustomed to their public manners. Yesterday I was shopping with my mom in a department store and there was a woman standing next to me looking at clothes. Suddenly she said "You should go try on one of these shirts." and she started digging through her pile of clothing to show me a shirt she was going to purchase. I just stared at the woman with a confused look on my face. I looked behind me to see if maybe she was talking to somebody else but there were only the two of us in the area. She continued "Really, I thought this style would not look good on me at all, but I was wrong! It is so flattering and I think it would be flattering for you too. There are more right over there - go try one on!" And still I just stood there staring at her while she walked away.

You see, in British culture rarely will the sales people even greet you, much less make a suggestion like that. And she was not even working at the store. I just kept thinking "Why is this woman talking to me?"

Soon I'll post more of my 're-entry' moments that I find interesting. And maybe soon I'll actually make this blog look more like I want it to look.

Home Sweet Home.......for a quick minute

2006-06-05T19:25:00.000-04:00

Hi friends...Here's a short update on my where abouts.
I left Scotland and flew to Atlanta on May 28th. My sweet friend MaryAnne picked me up at the airport with flowers and some chocolate. She must have known I would need more than just a smile and hug after trying to get five suitcases and a violin through customs! Worse than the luggage were the extremely annoying Americans in the customs queue complaining because they couldn't use their cell phones. MaryAnne treated me to a lovely dinner at Chili's where I ate a HUGE salad. I had been craving just that type of salad that you can only find in American resturants.

I spent 2 days doing almost nothing in Chattanooga. I only saw a couple friends and ran a couple errands. I just wanted to rest and adjust back to American life. On Wednesday morning I flew up to Kalamazoo Michigan for a missionary renewal program. I'm staying in a little cabin on a lake. No phone, tv, or email to fight for my time. Mostly just quiet in my cabin with lots of time for resting and reading. In the mornings I go to seminars and meetings and have some homework. But the point of the program in to help renew ministry people so they are careful not to over burden us.

How convenient that it is located near my family! My mom came to stay with me for the weekend. Tonight I am hanging out at my cousin's house in Kalamazoo doing laundry and checking email. My aunt and I just had a long talk on the porch while eating ice cream and raspberries. How sweet it is to be home!

It's so sad.....

2006-05-16T13:05:00.000-04:00

Ruth is a four year old in my Sunday school class. She is usually quite shy but has recently blossomed which we enjoy because she is very clever and keeps us laughing. Ruth loves to play church with her cousins. Last week she asked her granny to play church with her. After they "sang" 7 (!) psalms Ruth announced they would then have 6 prayers. And this is how she prayed
"God help all the children in Africa who have no clothes....It's so sad.
God help all the children in Africa who have no food....It's so sad.
God help all the children in Africa who have no toys.....It's so sad."

ruth's mom had recently told her about these children in Africa when Ruth was refusing to eat her dinner. I chuckled when I heard the story from her granny but later I thought about it more. How desensitized am I to pictures of the suffering children in Africa? How often do I grieve over their suffering in my prayers and feel the sadness that Ruth embraced? Not often enough.

Catching up....

2006-05-12T08:43:00.000-04:00

OK - so I'm not too great at updating this blog. Maybe it's because life is absolutely crazy right now while I get ready to leave the UK!

First....France was wonderful! I love everything - the culture, the food, trying to speak in broken French, the sunshine, and most of all......Paris. The architecture was grand and opulent. The Eiffel Tower was AMAZING!French men flirted with me - nobody ever flirts with me so that was nice. I can't wait to go back there one day.....It's a good thing I didn't get there until the end of my Europe stay.

Now life is filled with packing, packing, and more packing. How can one person accumulate so much stuff in two years? It's sickening and makes me want to just sell everything I own (except my ipod) and become a monk. And the difficulty with moving to another continent is that I have to get rid of everything that I'm not taking. If a friend stops by for a cup of tea these days, they usually take home some treasures that would otherwise become trash.

In the midst of all the madness, my computer got a nasty virus. I got so frustrated I decided to pack it and only use the computer at the movie store on my street. I'm sure somebody in America can figure out how to fix mine.

I'll post a moving schedule soon. Bye for now - I'm going to go call utility companies and hope that some of them actually owe me money! Fat chance.

Bonjour mes amis!

2006-04-22T15:31:00.000-04:00

I'm writing you from Lille, France. This is my last holiday before I wrap things up in Glasgow and move back to the states. A friend from Chattanooga, Tara Luther, lives here in Lille. Today we drove to another small town, Amiens, to see their cathedral. It was stunning - twice the size of Notre Dame. The rest of the afternoon we spent walking around this canal town. It was a beautiful day and I even have a little pink on my nose to prove it! Much different than Glasgow.

If I was really on the ball I would be able to post some pictures from today! But I'm not. So I'll try to post my favorites when I get home. Monday we will visit Gent, Belgium and then Tuesday we will go to Paris for three days. Can't wait.
Au revior!

What's in a name?

2006-04-14T14:24:00.000-04:00

When thinking of a name for this blog I wanted to choose something that was tied to my time in Scotland. Dead Chuffed Life sounds morbid or angry, but in reality it means the opposite. In Scottish vernacular, dead means "very".... It's dead easy. I'm dead serious..... Chuffed means happy or pleased.... I'm chuffed about it......So translation of my blog title is Very Happy Life.

Now that you are impressed with my dead cool title, I'll confess that I stole it. A friend here has a group called the Dead Chuffed Society and I really liked the name! My best creativity is usually another man's ideas. Rob & Duplicate - skills I picked up in missionary training.

People say that America and Scotland are two different cultures with a common language. But sometimes I don't even think the language is common! I love so many of my Scottish words. Rubbish, pudding, blether, queue, porridge, nappy. I wonder how long I will continue to say them when I return to America. I think I'll refuse to give some of them up. My favorite expression I've picked up isn't a word at all.....It's the deep-throated guttural exasperation of "och".

Here is some fun for you! I'll send a prize to the first (non-Scottish) person who can translate this sentence! Good Luck.
Canty whissunday! i'mm aff tae scratcher noo! (no internet cheating allowed!)

Welcome!

2006-04-10T14:54:00.000-04:00

Hiya!
I've finally entered the blogging world. The idea first came to me soon after moving to Scotland and I regret not starting then. But it's never too late so here it is!
In a few weeks I'll be leaving Scotland so this will be easy for keeping in touch with folks on both continents. And soon I'll think of something interesting to say....... In the meantime, here is a picture of my street. About halfway down the block there is a large purple sign and my flat is the top bay window above that sign.