Question on the radio today...
Five out of six Canadians under the age of 18 have never used ____________.
Have fun guessing! I'll let you know the correct answer tomorrow. If you guess correctly, I'm sure I'll have to send you a prize of some sort. ;)
Showing posts with label fun and games. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fun and games. Show all posts
Monday, March 22, 2010
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Loot Bag Winners
I have to be honest - drawing names had to be one of the hardest things I've done in a long time! I would think, "Oh, I really hope she wins because she is a new reader," or "Clearly she is in love with this book, so I hope she wins it." Frankly, it stinks to have a limited number of prizes. I wish I could be like Oprah (not that I'm endorsing her, ahem) and tell you all that there is a fantastic gift waiting for you under your seat!
At the risk of sounding trite, I would like to remind you all that you do have a gift to open each and every day, and that's the Word of God. (I know, there is no way that it doesn't come across as a cliche, but seriously! His Word never returns void!) I just spontaneously asked God if He had a treasure He'd like me to share with you today, and one of my memory verses from last year popped into my head:
#1 - Two copies of Lysa TerKeurst's Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl
Bobbie from 40 Shades of Pink
#2 - $29.39 gift card for Chapters/Indigo/Coles
Shauna of Shutterbugg Mom - That's Me!
#3 - One copy of Beth Moore's So Long, Insecurity: you've been a bad friend to us
Heather from the land of no blogs
#4 - An original photocard of your choice created by Danielle of Danielle Designs, in digital file
Jenny at/of The Wagner Family
If you are a winner, you will be getting an email from me asking for your mailing address and/or gathering other necessary details to get your loot bag into your hands. Thanks again for reading, encouraging, and playing!
I have a couple interesting observations/comments about this whole process...
First, you girls are too much fun! I must thank my mom for getting everyone off to a great start by commenting on the party post repeatedly - totally in the spirit I was looking for. Ironically, she did not win a single thing! LOL!
Those who don't know me personally might not know this, but the first three winners are all people that I know personally. I realize that makes the whole drawing process sound fishy, but I promise you there was no fishy-ness involved whatsoever!
Was anyone wondering about the odd amount of the gift card ($29.39)? I will proudly confess to re-gifting. There was a book purchased that was later returned without a receipt, and the poor little cash card has been sitting around just waiting for someone to love it. Since I seldom go to the physical store to buy books anymore, I figured someone else should have it. As well, Lysa's two books were mailed to me by Proverbs 31 Ministries as a promotional tool for women's ministry - re-gift. And though I had planned to buy someone a photocard created by Danielle, she offered to do it gratis! Does it get any easier to give stuff away?!
A few people managed to get their names entered four or five times, yet two of the winners only entered their names ONCE! I guess the whole theory of increasing your odds doesn't apply when you're drawing names from ahat child's plastic drinking cup.
One last thing... It really is better to give than to receive. I mean, I am beyond excited to get these prizes sent out to the winners! Each name I pulled gave me a little thrill for that person. Total fun!
Okay, I lied - just one more thing. But good golly! Does anyone remember me saying that one of the potential prizes would be a copy of my first public talk on Mommy Why Are You Angry? Yeah, I forgot, too. Obviously. Remind me of this a week or two down the road, and I'll see if I can't find an occasion for another giveaway. ;)
At the risk of sounding trite, I would like to remind you all that you do have a gift to open each and every day, and that's the Word of God. (I know, there is no way that it doesn't come across as a cliche, but seriously! His Word never returns void!) I just spontaneously asked God if He had a treasure He'd like me to share with you today, and one of my memory verses from last year popped into my head:
Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. ~Psalm 37:4-5, (emphasis mine)And now, the winners of additional prizes...
#1 - Two copies of Lysa TerKeurst's Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl
Bobbie from 40 Shades of Pink
#2 - $29.39 gift card for Chapters/Indigo/Coles
Shauna of Shutterbugg Mom - That's Me!
#3 - One copy of Beth Moore's So Long, Insecurity: you've been a bad friend to us
Heather from the land of no blogs
#4 - An original photocard of your choice created by Danielle of Danielle Designs, in digital file
Jenny at/of The Wagner Family
If you are a winner, you will be getting an email from me asking for your mailing address and/or gathering other necessary details to get your loot bag into your hands. Thanks again for reading, encouraging, and playing!
I have a couple interesting observations/comments about this whole process...
First, you girls are too much fun! I must thank my mom for getting everyone off to a great start by commenting on the party post repeatedly - totally in the spirit I was looking for. Ironically, she did not win a single thing! LOL!
Those who don't know me personally might not know this, but the first three winners are all people that I know personally. I realize that makes the whole drawing process sound fishy, but I promise you there was no fishy-ness involved whatsoever!
Was anyone wondering about the odd amount of the gift card ($29.39)? I will proudly confess to re-gifting. There was a book purchased that was later returned without a receipt, and the poor little cash card has been sitting around just waiting for someone to love it. Since I seldom go to the physical store to buy books anymore, I figured someone else should have it. As well, Lysa's two books were mailed to me by Proverbs 31 Ministries as a promotional tool for women's ministry - re-gift. And though I had planned to buy someone a photocard created by Danielle, she offered to do it gratis! Does it get any easier to give stuff away?!
A few people managed to get their names entered four or five times, yet two of the winners only entered their names ONCE! I guess the whole theory of increasing your odds doesn't apply when you're drawing names from a
One last thing... It really is better to give than to receive. I mean, I am beyond excited to get these prizes sent out to the winners! Each name I pulled gave me a little thrill for that person. Total fun!
Okay, I lied - just one more thing. But good golly! Does anyone remember me saying that one of the potential prizes would be a copy of my first public talk on Mommy Why Are You Angry? Yeah, I forgot, too. Obviously. Remind me of this a week or two down the road, and I'll see if I can't find an occasion for another giveaway. ;)
Friday, February 19, 2010
I'm Throwing a Party, and It Just Wouldn't be the Same without YOU!
Without so much as a nod of my head, I wrote and posted my 500th post in this little internet space. I am disappointed that I allowed a special moment (to me, anyway) slip by without fanfare. But, given that I seem to run a couple days behind my blog plans on a regular basis (birthday posts, The God Chronicles*), I have decided to hold a celebration.
So on Monday, in honour of you - the rockin' few who keep on reading my babblings - there will be a par-tay!
There will be a few "best of" posts going up; there will be some long-overdue awards handed out; and there will be prizes! You are welcome to bring your own coffee and snacks. :)
Clearly, I don't have 500 things to give away (oh, but I wish I did - wouldn't that be fun with a capital F?!). How about 1 prize for every 100 posts? Count 'em - 1-2-3-4-5 things for you to win. Just for F-U-N! Prizes may include Lysa TerKeurst's latest book (two copies), "Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl," a CD of my first (and so far, only) talk on mother anger, a gift card for Coles/Chapters/Indigo, and a few other things I'll think of over the weekend.
Therefore, you are cordially invited to attend my 500 post par-tay on Monday, February 22. Come prepared to visit too long, drink too much coffee, laugh (or cry) too hard, and win too many prizes.
* Regarding The God Chronicles... I have decided to give this blog carnival its wings and let it fly away. (Yeah, I'm not so great with the metaphor.) I think it's fair to say that my carnival suffered from chronic lack of participation. Don't worry - I'm getting over it. It just no longer seems reasonable to host TGC as a carnival, given that my heart breaks each month when no one links up. (I said "getting" over it, not "gotten" over it, okay?) I will still post the God sightings in my life under the tag for TGC, and you are always welcome to join in by posting your own TGC and putting your link in the comments. But it will no longer be a regularly scheduled event (no longer, ha, it hasn't been since October) on this here blog. For those who did participate in TGC this past year - THANK-YOU!!! I love you all just a little bit more than my other readers. Kidding. Sort of. ;)
So on Monday, in honour of you - the rockin' few who keep on reading my babblings - there will be a par-tay!
There will be a few "best of" posts going up; there will be some long-overdue awards handed out; and there will be prizes! You are welcome to bring your own coffee and snacks. :)
Clearly, I don't have 500 things to give away (oh, but I wish I did - wouldn't that be fun with a capital F?!). How about 1 prize for every 100 posts? Count 'em - 1-2-3-4-5 things for you to win. Just for F-U-N! Prizes may include Lysa TerKeurst's latest book (two copies), "Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl," a CD of my first (and so far, only) talk on mother anger, a gift card for Coles/Chapters/Indigo, and a few other things I'll think of over the weekend.
Therefore, you are cordially invited to attend my 500 post par-tay on Monday, February 22. Come prepared to visit too long, drink too much coffee, laugh (or cry) too hard, and win too many prizes.
* Regarding The God Chronicles... I have decided to give this blog carnival its wings and let it fly away. (Yeah, I'm not so great with the metaphor.) I think it's fair to say that my carnival suffered from chronic lack of participation. Don't worry - I'm getting over it. It just no longer seems reasonable to host TGC as a carnival, given that my heart breaks each month when no one links up. (I said "getting" over it, not "gotten" over it, okay?) I will still post the God sightings in my life under the tag for TGC, and you are always welcome to join in by posting your own TGC and putting your link in the comments. But it will no longer be a regularly scheduled event (no longer, ha, it hasn't been since October) on this here blog. For those who did participate in TGC this past year - THANK-YOU!!! I love you all just a little bit more than my other readers. Kidding. Sort of. ;)
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Questions
I am fully uninspired this morning. I have been up between 6-12 times per night for the past 4 nights, and I am plumb tuckered out! So I decided the best thing I could do (for you and for me) is to pose a few questions that I wonder about. I would be just tickled if you took the time to answer. :)
1. Am I the only one who still has my Christmas tree and decorations out?
I have thought to myself daily since December 30th, "Self, you should really get that tree down and all the decorations put away." But the lazy in me keeps winning out.
2. How many cups of coffee do you drink in the morning?
Three cups is about perfect for me. If I only have one I end up with a headache, but if I have four my tummy starts to feel that "icky" feeling.
3. What time do you put your kids to bed? And what time do they get up?
I am fairly strict about our 7pm bedtime on school nights. Those who don't actually need as much nighttime sleep (anyone who napped) will wake up as early as 6am. The school kids are dragged out of bed at 6:45 - in order to catch the bus at 7:45.
4. Do you floss your teeth regularly?
I never have. I would say that I floss about once per month, and once per week for the month prior to a dentist visit. I know, pathetic.
5. If you were stranded on a desert island and could only keep the pages from one book of the Bible, which book would you keep? And why?
I'd have to say James. Every time I read it I find something practical and relevant. Love it!
1. Am I the only one who still has my Christmas tree and decorations out?
I have thought to myself daily since December 30th, "Self, you should really get that tree down and all the decorations put away." But the lazy in me keeps winning out.
2. How many cups of coffee do you drink in the morning?
Three cups is about perfect for me. If I only have one I end up with a headache, but if I have four my tummy starts to feel that "icky" feeling.
3. What time do you put your kids to bed? And what time do they get up?
I am fairly strict about our 7pm bedtime on school nights. Those who don't actually need as much nighttime sleep (anyone who napped) will wake up as early as 6am. The school kids are dragged out of bed at 6:45 - in order to catch the bus at 7:45.
4. Do you floss your teeth regularly?
I never have. I would say that I floss about once per month, and once per week for the month prior to a dentist visit. I know, pathetic.
5. If you were stranded on a desert island and could only keep the pages from one book of the Bible, which book would you keep? And why?
I'd have to say James. Every time I read it I find something practical and relevant. Love it!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
On the Loose
I am almost off for an evening away with a girlfriend. By the time you read this I will be off (she doesn't know where she's going or who she's meeting, so I scheduled this to pop up after I know she's gone -you know?). As soon as I get home tomorrow, Pat and I are sneaking off for a night. We'll go to his work Christmas party, then enjoy the luxury of sleeping in the next morning. (Yay, Grandma! Have fun at 6am.)
So far this morning I have:
- washed, dried, folded, and put away three loads of laundry
- had my chimney cleaned (unrelated, but it was scheduled for this morning)
- grocery shopped for snacks and quick foods
- packed for one night, stacked packing for the next night
- put tonight's dinner in the crock pot
- fed two children lunch
- taken out the garbage and recycling
- cleaned up 400 mounds of dog doo
- paid bills
- and paced anxiously waiting for the sitter to arrive (who, as I write this, is not yet due for another hour).
If you've never taken a night away with a girlfriend, you totally should. It's almost naughty how free you feel!
If you've never taken a night away with your hubby, you should do that one first. :) Just 24 hours of escape from the day-to-day can bring month's worth of refreshing to a marriage.
And if you ever have the blessed opportunity to do both in one weekend, be sure to thank the Lord and not take one moment for granted. Because time away - it is a blessing.
Anyone know how it is that on any normal day it would take every waking moment to complete that list of tasks? Really, getting away is good for the whole family - they've never had such a productive Mommy! :)
So far this morning I have:
- washed, dried, folded, and put away three loads of laundry
- had my chimney cleaned (unrelated, but it was scheduled for this morning)
- grocery shopped for snacks and quick foods
- packed for one night, stacked packing for the next night
- put tonight's dinner in the crock pot
- fed two children lunch
- taken out the garbage and recycling
- cleaned up 400 mounds of dog doo
- paid bills
- and paced anxiously waiting for the sitter to arrive (who, as I write this, is not yet due for another hour).
If you've never taken a night away with a girlfriend, you totally should. It's almost naughty how free you feel!
If you've never taken a night away with your hubby, you should do that one first. :) Just 24 hours of escape from the day-to-day can bring month's worth of refreshing to a marriage.
And if you ever have the blessed opportunity to do both in one weekend, be sure to thank the Lord and not take one moment for granted. Because time away - it is a blessing.
Anyone know how it is that on any normal day it would take every waking moment to complete that list of tasks? Really, getting away is good for the whole family - they've never had such a productive Mommy! :)
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Quick Reminder
The God Chronicles will be going up on Friday. Please join me and link up!
I'll be back with something to say tomorrow. For today, I'll leave you with this...
Girls really do just wanna have fun. :)
(P.S. I was four months pregnant, so don't knock the belly.)
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Good Medicine
Laughter, hot spinach dip, dessert you didn't make at home...these things are good medicine.
You may have noticed that it's been a busy week. It's been difficult to pull together a coherent thought for this place. But our conversation last night was of great help in that department.
We were expanding our vocabularies and our horizons over food and giant glasses of iced tea.
Somewhere in the conversation I mentioned the word ginch (or was it gonch). This brought shivers of disgust to my princess friend. Apparently that word provokes her mind to visual images of icky, dirty ginch (or gonch) with bacon strips. If you're as uneducated as I, you are wondering, "what the heck are bacon strips?" Apparently, this is the new and improved terminology for "skid marks" left behind in said ginch (or gonch) after not wiping properly.
I want to thank my girlfriends for the vocabulary lesson. I will never again be able to enjoy fried bacon.
You may have noticed that it's been a busy week. It's been difficult to pull together a coherent thought for this place. But our conversation last night was of great help in that department.
We were expanding our vocabularies and our horizons over food and giant glasses of iced tea.
Somewhere in the conversation I mentioned the word ginch (or was it gonch). This brought shivers of disgust to my princess friend. Apparently that word provokes her mind to visual images of icky, dirty ginch (or gonch) with bacon strips. If you're as uneducated as I, you are wondering, "what the heck are bacon strips?" Apparently, this is the new and improved terminology for "skid marks" left behind in said ginch (or gonch) after not wiping properly.
I want to thank my girlfriends for the vocabulary lesson. I will never again be able to enjoy fried bacon.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Doin' the Hop
I'm joining in on Blog Hop '09 at Pensieve this weekend. The purpose is to find a few new blogs I love and add them to my reading list (because I have all this free time and nothing to do with it, and I refuse to do housework), to have a few people find my blog and decide they love me, and to try to win some super giveaways!
Since I'm posting twice today, if you visit here regularly you may want to check out my post from earlier this morning...
So, who the heck am I?
Let's start with the stats:
* 31 years old
* wife
* mother to 5 (ages 11, 7, 6, 4, and almost 2)
* special needs mother
* women's ministry leader
* hopeful author
But here's the real grit:
* full-out follower of Jesus Christ
* I hate laundry and cooking (hahaha, God's funny giving me a big family)
* I love reading and writing
* I love singing (and if loving something made you good at it I'd be fantabulous)
* we are in a perpetual state of home renovation
* my heart beats to see other women find who they are in Christ
* I love being a mom, but struggle big time with being an angry mom
* I love my husband, but all too often let PMS rule our interactions
* I have the unique personality combination of organized procrastinator (???)
* I host a monthly blog carnival called The God Chronicles, so we can keep a record God's faithfulness in our lives (TGC is supposed to be on the 20th of each month, but I seem to be not completely on top of it - for those who are wondering, I have just now - July 24th - decided to take a summer hiatus from TGC; it will return on Sept. 20th)
And, what shall I be giving away for the Blog Hop? Hmmmm.... I always give away books, because I love to read. But I recognize that not everyone shares my passion. I know, I'll do up a care package of my favourite things! For example, my fave bubble bath, candle, lotion, book, corkscrew, socks, whatever. As I shop for some of my own faves, I'll just throw an extra in the cart for the lucky winner! I'll draw (via random.org) on Tuesday afternoon (that's July 28th).
To enter, just tell me one of your faves.
Thanks for stopping by! :)
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Mother's Day Giveaway
I recently had the great blessing of winning a book that I really, really wanted to read. You see, the book was written by someone I "know" (by knowing I mean: I read her blog every day and comment lots in the hopes that she'll like me *smile) and based on my "knowing" her I was certain her book would be chalk full of wisdom and handy tips for mothering.Mary Ostyn of Owlhaven has recently released her new book, "A Sane Woman's Guide to Raising a Large Family." And fyi - you sure don't need to have a large family to benefit by reading her book. It is g-o-o-d!
Here's the review I submitted to amazon.com:
Mary has written the guide of a lifetime! If you (like me) are struggling in any area of family life - from chores to discipline, from organizing to laundry - "A Sane Woman's Guide..." will have something for you.
Mary's no-nonsense, concise approach to offering up all the tips and tidbits from her years of experience managing a family of 12 is a quick and easy read. But do NOT mistake it to be your typical quick and easy read; this book is chalk full of information!
I set this book down encouraged that it really is possible to raise my family of seven (five little monkeys) AND keep my house organized and tidy AND not break the bank doing it all. If you are considering purchasing this book, let me tell you this - it will be worth every penny!
If you would like your very own, brand new (read: you're not getting my copy, I'm keeping it!), hot off the presses copy of Mary's book, leave me a comment! Not just any comment, though - tell me what you really hope to get for Mother's Day.
On a side note, I would be remiss if I didn't mention my best advice for getting the gift you want from your spouse for any occasion. So don't forget to stop by tomorrow; my WFMW post is all about getting the gift you really want.
You don't need to be a blogger to enter, just make sure you leave me an email address so I can let you know if you've won.
Here, I'll go first. What I really want for Mother's Day is the gift of total relaxation - 90 minute full body hot stone massage. Mmmmmmm...
* The fine print... No purchase necessary. You must leave a comment in order to be entered. If you would like to post about this giveaway, linking BOTH to this post right here AND to Mary's book (or her blog), your name will be entered FIVE times (plus another entry for your comment). Entries will close at noon (MST) on Friday, May 8th. Winner will be announced on Saturday, May 9th at 9am (MST). International entries will be accepted.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are!
Lurk - verb (used without object)
1. to lie or wait in concealment, as a person in ambush; remain in or around a place secretly or furtively.
2. to go furtively; slink; steal.
3. to exist unperceived or unsuspected.
4. Chiefly Computers. to read or observe an ongoing discussion without participating in it, as in an Internet newsgroup.–noun Australian Informal.
5. an underhand scheme; dodge.
6. an easy, somewhat lazy or unethical way of earning a living, performing a task, etc.
7. a hideout.
Lurker - noun
One of the `silent majority' in a electronic forum; one who posts occasionally or not at all but is known to read the group's postings regularly. This term is not pejorative and indeed is casually used reflexively: "Oh, I'm just lurking." Often used in `the lurkers', the hypothetical audience for the group's flamage-emitting regulars. When a lurker speaks up for the first time, this is called `delurking'.
My friend Jenni has informed me (via her blog) that it is National Delurking Week. What nation - I don't know! Nor do I care. Because this blog world is all very official-like, I now pronounce it National Delurking WeekEND here in Canada - that way I can justify my participation.
So, what are you waiting for?! Tell me who you are. Say "hi." Even if you are a faithful reader and commenter, say "hi" just for kicks. What's that? You need incentive??? Oooooh, incentive I can do. Comment on this post, and I'll put your name in the drawing for a super-duper prize. If it's your FIRST TIME leaving a comment, let me know and I will enter your name TWICE! Just because I want you to feel loved and welcomed.
And....go!
Oh, sorry, you want to know what the super-duper prize is. So do I. But I'm going to let Pat decide (you're free to make suggestions to him, but if he never listens to me I'd be surprised if he listens to you). :)
Happy National Delurking WeekEND!
P.S. Comments will be closed at my bedtime (around 10pm MST) on Sunday. You know, when the nationally recognized holiday ends.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Duck - There's a Snowball Coming Your Way!
I was tagged by Hope at Pink-a-Doodle-Doo for this fun Christmas post.
The rules:
1. Post the rules on your blog.
2. Fill out the questions below
3. Tag 5-7 people at the end of your post.
4. Pass on the tag. Have FUN!!
1.Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Both. But only very occasionally.
2.Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? He likes to fill up stockings with unwrapped gifts (such as toothbrushes and underwear), but he also usually gives one gift to the whole family that is unwrapped (last year, we got Tinkerbell - farewell, Tink).
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? This year, I finally had a bit of money to buy my own lights (rather than using my parents' cast-offs). We have blue LED lights outside, with silvery-white on our posts. Those same silvery-white (did you know you can buy lights with different shades of white?) on the tree.
4. Do you hang mistletoe? No, but I've always thought I should. It would be great fun to make the kids go stand under the mistletoe when they're arguing.
5. When do you put your decorations up? Usually right around December 1st.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? I am VERY fond of stuffing...I like to mix it up with my mashed potatoes and pour gravy all over it. (Anyone still wondering why I'm having weight "issues?")
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child. We used to go to Manitoba and have Christmas with my Grandparents and Aunties and Uncles. Someone (Grandpa, I think) invented an excuse to give all the kids money - we put on a "show" and the relatives tossed dollar bills our way (I know, I'm dating myself with the dollar bill thing). One year my cousin, Nick, and I did a lip sync to Kenny Rogers' & Dolly Parton's "I'll Be There with Bells on." I can still see the tears streaming down my Grandma's face as I pulled the 14 pairs of rolled-up socks out of my shirt.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I'm sad to say that some mean kids at school ruined it for me! They were running around and blabbing about how smart they were and how dumb the rest of us were. I went home to ask my Mom, and she told me the story of Saint Nicholas. I was very relieved that she agreed to continue filling a stocking for me on his behalf.
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? We do - the kids always get pyjamas. Pat and I, in our early days, bought each other several gifts and would open one daily for about a week before Christmas. Not so much now.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? Much to my stress, we let the kids decorate it (and I fight my inner urges all month to keep from making it more symmetrical).
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Dread it - ugh. I'm perfectly happy having a brown Christmas.
12. Can you ice skate? Not anymore, my ankles are weaker than an eighty-year-old woman's.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Honestly, I can't remember a single gift that I didn't love. I pretty much always get what I want! (I think often because the list isn't very long - this year it includes some new pots and pans. LOL.)
14. What is the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Definitely that my kids know and understand the first Christmas and why we celebrate - Jesus coming to earth to save us.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Pumpkin pie. Or banana cream pie. Or raisin butter tarts. Maybe marshmallow peanut butter squares. Caramel popcorn. (Mom - you better get to baking! Mmmmmm.)
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? I enjoy a new tradition we started just a couple of years ago... Our kids each fill a shoebox for a child of the same age and gender, and they get sent off for Operation Christmas Child with Samaritan's Purse. It's the perfect way to begin the season where God gave more than we can ever imagine or understand - by giving of ourselves.
17. What tops your tree? Currently (and in years past), an angel. But I have several requests in to find a great big star for this year. I'm working on it...
18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? I love giving - love planning, shopping, wrapping, and watching the gifts being opened. But I'd be lying if I said I don't enjoy the receiving as well. Opening presents is so much fun! (I especially love being surprised.)
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? I'm going to reveal my age again, my childhood favourite (and still today) is "Mary's Boy Child" as sung by Boney-M (video embedded below for your listening enjoyment).
20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? One is yum (one per year, that is).
21. What do you want for Christmas? I mentioned pots and pans earlier (all my non-stick surfaces are getting sticky). Maybe jewelry, or a purse (I've been desperately searching for a red purse that is divided into two compartments - impossible!).
22. Do you attend an annual Christmas Party? Pat's work usually has a party - this year it's dinner and a dance at the local Legion. We often have a women's ministry party, as well (which I attend and plan) - this year we'll be bowling in January.
23. Do you dress up on Christmas or wear PJs? I usually dress up slightly from my pjs - yoga pants are nice and stretchy for overeating.
24. Do you own a Santa hat? I don't, but I believe the four older kids each have one.
25. Who do you normally spend Christmas with? We go over to my parents' place, and my brother and sister and their spouses come, too.
In the spirit of winter tag, imagine me tossing a snowball at each of the following bloggers (I am trying to hit people whom I've never tagged or linked to before):
Joy @ Joy in the Journey,
Stacy @ my simple walk,
Starr @ Threshold Moments,
Christy @ Life as a Mom, and
Moi @ Life as Moi (sorry, I know her real name, but I don't know if she wants everyone to know, lol).
If I haven't tagged you, but you want to play anyway - feel free! It's fun for everyone. :) (Cheesy, I know.) Just leave a comment telling me and everyone else that you're playing, too. And if you don't have a blog, go ahead and leave a super-duper long comment. (I LOVE comments!)
The rules:
1. Post the rules on your blog.
2. Fill out the questions below
3. Tag 5-7 people at the end of your post.
4. Pass on the tag. Have FUN!!
1.Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Both. But only very occasionally.
2.Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? He likes to fill up stockings with unwrapped gifts (such as toothbrushes and underwear), but he also usually gives one gift to the whole family that is unwrapped (last year, we got Tinkerbell - farewell, Tink).
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? This year, I finally had a bit of money to buy my own lights (rather than using my parents' cast-offs). We have blue LED lights outside, with silvery-white on our posts. Those same silvery-white (did you know you can buy lights with different shades of white?) on the tree.
4. Do you hang mistletoe? No, but I've always thought I should. It would be great fun to make the kids go stand under the mistletoe when they're arguing.
5. When do you put your decorations up? Usually right around December 1st.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? I am VERY fond of stuffing...I like to mix it up with my mashed potatoes and pour gravy all over it. (Anyone still wondering why I'm having weight "issues?")
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child. We used to go to Manitoba and have Christmas with my Grandparents and Aunties and Uncles. Someone (Grandpa, I think) invented an excuse to give all the kids money - we put on a "show" and the relatives tossed dollar bills our way (I know, I'm dating myself with the dollar bill thing). One year my cousin, Nick, and I did a lip sync to Kenny Rogers' & Dolly Parton's "I'll Be There with Bells on." I can still see the tears streaming down my Grandma's face as I pulled the 14 pairs of rolled-up socks out of my shirt.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I'm sad to say that some mean kids at school ruined it for me! They were running around and blabbing about how smart they were and how dumb the rest of us were. I went home to ask my Mom, and she told me the story of Saint Nicholas. I was very relieved that she agreed to continue filling a stocking for me on his behalf.
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? We do - the kids always get pyjamas. Pat and I, in our early days, bought each other several gifts and would open one daily for about a week before Christmas. Not so much now.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? Much to my stress, we let the kids decorate it (and I fight my inner urges all month to keep from making it more symmetrical).
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Dread it - ugh. I'm perfectly happy having a brown Christmas.
12. Can you ice skate? Not anymore, my ankles are weaker than an eighty-year-old woman's.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Honestly, I can't remember a single gift that I didn't love. I pretty much always get what I want! (I think often because the list isn't very long - this year it includes some new pots and pans. LOL.)
14. What is the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Definitely that my kids know and understand the first Christmas and why we celebrate - Jesus coming to earth to save us.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Pumpkin pie. Or banana cream pie. Or raisin butter tarts. Maybe marshmallow peanut butter squares. Caramel popcorn. (Mom - you better get to baking! Mmmmmm.)
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? I enjoy a new tradition we started just a couple of years ago... Our kids each fill a shoebox for a child of the same age and gender, and they get sent off for Operation Christmas Child with Samaritan's Purse. It's the perfect way to begin the season where God gave more than we can ever imagine or understand - by giving of ourselves.
17. What tops your tree? Currently (and in years past), an angel. But I have several requests in to find a great big star for this year. I'm working on it...
18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? I love giving - love planning, shopping, wrapping, and watching the gifts being opened. But I'd be lying if I said I don't enjoy the receiving as well. Opening presents is so much fun! (I especially love being surprised.)
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? I'm going to reveal my age again, my childhood favourite (and still today) is "Mary's Boy Child" as sung by Boney-M (video embedded below for your listening enjoyment).
20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? One is yum (one per year, that is).
21. What do you want for Christmas? I mentioned pots and pans earlier (all my non-stick surfaces are getting sticky). Maybe jewelry, or a purse (I've been desperately searching for a red purse that is divided into two compartments - impossible!).
22. Do you attend an annual Christmas Party? Pat's work usually has a party - this year it's dinner and a dance at the local Legion. We often have a women's ministry party, as well (which I attend and plan) - this year we'll be bowling in January.
23. Do you dress up on Christmas or wear PJs? I usually dress up slightly from my pjs - yoga pants are nice and stretchy for overeating.
24. Do you own a Santa hat? I don't, but I believe the four older kids each have one.
25. Who do you normally spend Christmas with? We go over to my parents' place, and my brother and sister and their spouses come, too.
In the spirit of winter tag, imagine me tossing a snowball at each of the following bloggers (I am trying to hit people whom I've never tagged or linked to before):
Joy @ Joy in the Journey,
Stacy @ my simple walk,
Starr @ Threshold Moments,
Christy @ Life as a Mom, and
Moi @ Life as Moi (sorry, I know her real name, but I don't know if she wants everyone to know, lol).
If I haven't tagged you, but you want to play anyway - feel free! It's fun for everyone. :) (Cheesy, I know.) Just leave a comment telling me and everyone else that you're playing, too. And if you don't have a blog, go ahead and leave a super-duper long comment. (I LOVE comments!)
Monday, October 20, 2008
The Earth is Square
It must be, because I have definitely fallen over the edge!
An explanation of my absence, in short version...
A group had booked our Church facility for their large women's conference. Twenty (or so) volunteers were needed to keep things clean and running smoothly. Those volunteers needed someone to coordinate what to do, when to do it, and the like. That was me. :)
It was a great blessing to serve, and the team of volunteers connected and had a lot of fun together. But man, my legs and feet ache. I am currently propping my eyelids open with toothpicks.
While I was gone, my man did dishes, made meals, and (drumroll, please) did laundry! (He even put it all away.) His homemaking skills totally trumped mine, and I'd like to offer him a new job with a much lower pay scale than he's used to. Thanks, honey! You rule!
Anyway, I figured you'd all be awaiting the big announcement. The winner of the 10,000 hits giveaway is (another drumroll, please).....
Lori from Panic! at the Refrigerator. Go visit her and say hello.
Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:14
Timestamp: 2008-10-20 19:29:33 UTC
© 1998-2008
Because I knew it would be way to difficult to choose a winner, I went with the tried and true Random Integer Generator. I asked it to choose one number between the values of 1 and 17, and it chose 14. (I debated making it only out of 16 comments, because comment #17 was entered at hit #10,001. But I always tell my kids that if they tell the truth above all else, the consequence I would normally give will be less, or not at all. So my cheating (but honest) Tante still got to play. LOL!)
Lori, I will email you for your address. Give me a week to read your blog so I can attempt to pick a prize you'll love.
An explanation of my absence, in short version...
A group had booked our Church facility for their large women's conference. Twenty (or so) volunteers were needed to keep things clean and running smoothly. Those volunteers needed someone to coordinate what to do, when to do it, and the like. That was me. :)
It was a great blessing to serve, and the team of volunteers connected and had a lot of fun together. But man, my legs and feet ache. I am currently propping my eyelids open with toothpicks.
While I was gone, my man did dishes, made meals, and (drumroll, please) did laundry! (He even put it all away.) His homemaking skills totally trumped mine, and I'd like to offer him a new job with a much lower pay scale than he's used to. Thanks, honey! You rule!
Anyway, I figured you'd all be awaiting the big announcement. The winner of the 10,000 hits giveaway is (another drumroll, please).....
Lori from Panic! at the Refrigerator. Go visit her and say hello.
Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:14
Timestamp: 2008-10-20 19:29:33 UTC
© 1998-2008
Because I knew it would be way to difficult to choose a winner, I went with the tried and true Random Integer Generator. I asked it to choose one number between the values of 1 and 17, and it chose 14. (I debated making it only out of 16 comments, because comment #17 was entered at hit #10,001. But I always tell my kids that if they tell the truth above all else, the consequence I would normally give will be less, or not at all. So my cheating (but honest) Tante still got to play. LOL!)
Lori, I will email you for your address. Give me a week to read your blog so I can attempt to pick a prize you'll love.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Ten Thousand
As I write this post, my handy little counter says "9738" visitors since I started out. To be honest, I'm kinda surprised! I was worried that I'd be writing for myself, my hubby, my mom, and my BFF to read.
I'm thrilled, excited, and blessed to know that other people who don't even know me (and even some who do) read my blatherings on here. My hope is that my day-to-day will be an encouragement to someone else - then it will be totally worth pouring my life out here on the world wide web.
To celebrate the impending 10,000 hits, I've decided to host a giveaway. It's a thank-you giveaway...well, because I want to say thanks! Because everyone is different, and I wouldn't just give the same gift of thanks to everyone I meet, the gift is not determined. NOPE. You must help me!
So, here's how you win:
- look at the hit counter (which is sitting right up top beside this post)
- post a comment (obviously, tell me what number you read on the stat counter)
- also, tell me three things about yourself that would help me choose a great thank-you gift for you (your fave colour or verse, whether you like pretty or useful, and so on) - THREE THINGS.
I'm not going to tell you how I will select the winner, but Pat knows so you know I'm not just choosing someone I like (I like you all, anyway, so how could I choose?). Go ahead and keep commenting, even after the 10,000 mark.
I'll announce a winner soon!
I'm thrilled, excited, and blessed to know that other people who don't even know me (and even some who do) read my blatherings on here. My hope is that my day-to-day will be an encouragement to someone else - then it will be totally worth pouring my life out here on the world wide web.
To celebrate the impending 10,000 hits, I've decided to host a giveaway. It's a thank-you giveaway...well, because I want to say thanks! Because everyone is different, and I wouldn't just give the same gift of thanks to everyone I meet, the gift is not determined. NOPE. You must help me!
So, here's how you win:
- look at the hit counter (which is sitting right up top beside this post)
- post a comment (obviously, tell me what number you read on the stat counter)
- also, tell me three things about yourself that would help me choose a great thank-you gift for you (your fave colour or verse, whether you like pretty or useful, and so on) - THREE THINGS.
I'm not going to tell you how I will select the winner, but Pat knows so you know I'm not just choosing someone I like (I like you all, anyway, so how could I choose?). Go ahead and keep commenting, even after the 10,000 mark.
I'll announce a winner soon!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Open Mouth, Insert Foot
Dear Women Friends,
I am writing this letter to ask you to please refrain from saying stupid and insensitive things to other women. I understand that, on occasion, we are struck by a dangerous case of "foot in mouth" disease, but SERIOUSLY, it cannot be that difficult to THINK before speaking.
Some examples of this rudeness may include (but are certainly not limited to) the following statements:
"I didn't realize that style of [insert clothing item] was making a comeback,"
or "You look so great today, all dressed up...not that you don't normally look great, I just mean...."
or "Wow, your new haircut sure looks - um, different."
Especially, though, I must insist that you refrain from the following:
"When are you due?"
or "I didn't realize you were expecting!"
or "So, are you pregnant again?"
or even "You sure look great...for having [insert number] kids."
Such statements are, to put it mildly, just plain ignorant. Perhaps you don't understand the hurt inflicted by those words - if that's the case I'm guessing you are one of those people who is always fashionable and slender. If so, please know that I harbour no ill will(you bag).
And though you may make insensitive statements on occasion, I assure you that I will continue to use great discretion when speaking to you. I promise never to reciprocate by saying:
"Man, those clothes must have cost a fortune. Are you guys loaded?"
or "Golly, it must be nice to be so darn skinny! What's your secret, are you anorexic?"
or the ever-insulting "I sure hate girls like you, who look great all the time/ who look normal after having a baby/ etc."
All my love, kindness, and only thoughtful words,
Tyler
P.S. No, you fools! I am NOT pregnant! Thanks, though, for making me feel like a blimp. I will now go home and stuff my face with cookies and cake to soothe my injured ego. (ahem)
I am writing this letter to ask you to please refrain from saying stupid and insensitive things to other women. I understand that, on occasion, we are struck by a dangerous case of "foot in mouth" disease, but SERIOUSLY, it cannot be that difficult to THINK before speaking.
Some examples of this rudeness may include (but are certainly not limited to) the following statements:
"I didn't realize that style of [insert clothing item] was making a comeback,"
or "You look so great today, all dressed up...not that you don't normally look great, I just mean...."
or "Wow, your new haircut sure looks - um, different."
Especially, though, I must insist that you refrain from the following:
"When are you due?"
or "I didn't realize you were expecting!"
or "So, are you pregnant again?"
or even "You sure look great...for having [insert number] kids."
Such statements are, to put it mildly, just plain ignorant. Perhaps you don't understand the hurt inflicted by those words - if that's the case I'm guessing you are one of those people who is always fashionable and slender. If so, please know that I harbour no ill will
And though you may make insensitive statements on occasion, I assure you that I will continue to use great discretion when speaking to you. I promise never to reciprocate by saying:
"Man, those clothes must have cost a fortune. Are you guys loaded?"
or "Golly, it must be nice to be so darn skinny! What's your secret, are you anorexic?"
or the ever-insulting "I sure hate girls like you, who look great all the time/ who look normal after having a baby/ etc."
All my love, kindness, and only thoughtful words,
Tyler
P.S. No, you fools! I am NOT pregnant! Thanks, though, for making me feel like a blimp. I will now go home and stuff my face with cookies and cake to soothe my injured ego. (ahem)
Friday, October 3, 2008
Q & A Time
In my attempt to put off doing anything productive today, I have been surfing the blogosphere this morning. Clicking from one link to the next. Until I stumbled upon this post (link will be added once I receive permission). I simply couldn't resist!
I know that there are at least a couple people who read here that never comment. But you must understand how much fun it is GETTING THE COMMENTS!!! Fun, fun, fun, people. So, in an effort to encourage you to "de-lurk," I am posing these very embarrassing questions for each of you to answer.
Seriously. :) Ah, come on, it will be so liberating!
1. Do you pass gas in front of your spouse?
2. Do you make your bed every day?
3. Do you floss everyday?
4. Do you sleep with a stuffed animal?
5. Do you eat when you are not hungry?
6. Is your car always messy?
7. How often do you clean your bathtub and shower?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My answers:
1. Yes. Early in my first pregnancy, I accidentally let one slip. I was soooo embarrassed! But he didn't seem too upset by it, so over the years I let them squeak out a little more often. Now, it's no holds barred (and if it's really stinky and grosses him out, I giggle in victory). Recently, Pat told me that when we were dating he got in my car after I had gotten out...I must have tooted before getting out. He confessed that it was so horrible that he really contemplated whether he'd be able to marry me.
2. Come on?! You know the answer to this one.
3. Um, no. I floss daily for a week or two before dental appointments. Maybe once a month the rest of the year (which results in the need to pop some ibuprofen due to the throbbing discomfort having proper dental hygiene only once per month brings).
4. I did for years, even after marriage. I've now replaced my stuffy with a grown-up version - a body pillow! (I even sold Pat on the loving comfort of the body pillow - hence the massive king-sized bed.)
5. Struggling to lose the "baby weight" when baby is over a year old. What do you think?
6. You know, I feel like I'm cleaning up my vehicle all the time, but if I'm honest it's seldom clean. Five kids, a puppy... Hey, a girl can only do so much!
7. How often should I clean it? Twice a week, at least. How often do I clean it? Um, every 10 days or so. BUT, my mom cleans it at least once a week, too...so overall I think we're avoiding too much bacterial growth.
Now, don't be a chicken. Post a comment with your answers. If you don't, I'm going to feel like a total freak. You wouldn't want to be solely responsible for my mental health breakdown, would you?
I know that there are at least a couple people who read here that never comment. But you must understand how much fun it is GETTING THE COMMENTS!!! Fun, fun, fun, people. So, in an effort to encourage you to "de-lurk," I am posing these very embarrassing questions for each of you to answer.
Seriously. :) Ah, come on, it will be so liberating!
1. Do you pass gas in front of your spouse?
2. Do you make your bed every day?
3. Do you floss everyday?
4. Do you sleep with a stuffed animal?
5. Do you eat when you are not hungry?
6. Is your car always messy?
7. How often do you clean your bathtub and shower?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My answers:
1. Yes. Early in my first pregnancy, I accidentally let one slip. I was soooo embarrassed! But he didn't seem too upset by it, so over the years I let them squeak out a little more often. Now, it's no holds barred (and if it's really stinky and grosses him out, I giggle in victory). Recently, Pat told me that when we were dating he got in my car after I had gotten out...I must have tooted before getting out. He confessed that it was so horrible that he really contemplated whether he'd be able to marry me.
2. Come on?! You know the answer to this one.
3. Um, no. I floss daily for a week or two before dental appointments. Maybe once a month the rest of the year (which results in the need to pop some ibuprofen due to the throbbing discomfort having proper dental hygiene only once per month brings).
4. I did for years, even after marriage. I've now replaced my stuffy with a grown-up version - a body pillow! (I even sold Pat on the loving comfort of the body pillow - hence the massive king-sized bed.)
5. Struggling to lose the "baby weight" when baby is over a year old. What do you think?
6. You know, I feel like I'm cleaning up my vehicle all the time, but if I'm honest it's seldom clean. Five kids, a puppy... Hey, a girl can only do so much!
7. How often should I clean it? Twice a week, at least. How often do I clean it? Um, every 10 days or so. BUT, my mom cleans it at least once a week, too...so overall I think we're avoiding too much bacterial growth.
Now, don't be a chicken. Post a comment with your answers. If you don't, I'm going to feel like a total freak. You wouldn't want to be solely responsible for my mental health breakdown, would you?
Monday, September 29, 2008
Searchable Me
Every Sunday I get a nice little email from sitemeter.com, providing stats for my blog visitors. There are many times I choose not to read it - I don't want to get all caught up in the numbers (because that's not why I do it), as well as time constraints. Sometimes, though, I read it, curious about where readers are from and how they found me.
This week, I got my first hit from Jamaica! Cool, eh? Look...
Location Continent : South America
Country : Jamaica (Facts)
State/Region : Manchester
City : Mandeville
Lat/Long : 18.0333, -77.5 (Map)
Just below this basic info, sitemeter shows me the referring URL (which in this case is a google search - thanks for the props google!).
Now, before you click the link below to view the search, I want you to think about all the things you know about me and my relationship with housework. If you need some help, check out this post...or this one. Okay, feel like you know me now? Good. Check out the search my Jamaican friend used to find my blog....
CLICK HERE.
This week, I got my first hit from Jamaica! Cool, eh? Look...
Location Continent : South America
Country : Jamaica (Facts)
State/Region : Manchester
City : Mandeville
Lat/Long : 18.0333, -77.5 (Map)
Just below this basic info, sitemeter shows me the referring URL (which in this case is a google search - thanks for the props google!).
Now, before you click the link below to view the search, I want you to think about all the things you know about me and my relationship with housework. If you need some help, check out this post...or this one. Okay, feel like you know me now? Good. Check out the search my Jamaican friend used to find my blog....
CLICK HERE.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
102 Things
I am so sad. My 100th post came and went, and I missed my opportunity to commemorate the moment (by copying a really fun idea my friends did over at PD&H).
In honour of my 102nd post, I present to you..... "102 Things About Me!"
1. My name is Tyler, but it's actually not.
2. My first name is Erin, but only family is allowed to call me by this name (all others who have tried have been mysteriously found unconscious in a ditch in Mexico)
3. I married my high school sweetheart, only he wasn't really.
4. I had a crush on Pat since grade 10, but we didn't start dating until after high school.
5. Pat only wanted to have one child.
6. I always dreamed of having six.
7. Today is our 9-year anniversary.
8. I LOVE math.
9. I won a math contest in grade 10 - top score in our school, top 10% in Canada.
10. I get bad (read: super moody) PMS.
11. Country music makes me happy (even the songs about wives leaving with best friends and dogs dying).
12. Before Pat, my longest dating relationship lasted four months, max.
13. I have worked as a gas jockey (though the politically correct term is gas station attendant).
14. My very best childhood friend died at the young age of 17.
15. I always look at peoples' teeth.
16. I have personal space issues.
17. I can sometimes be a bit bossy. :)
18. I was an only child until the age of 12.
19. I am always worried that I've got bad breath.
20. I hate chewing gum.
21. My mom is one of my best friends.
22. I am a yeller.
23. I used to yell at Pat when we fought. It was nasty.
24. I know a lot of people, but have few friends.
25. My favourite place to be is in the mountains.
26. My other favourite place is the beach.
27. If anyone knows a place where there are both mountains and beach, please tell me so I can move there.
28. I like to raise my hands during worship.
29. I like to sing worship music at the top of my lungs whenever I'm driving alone.
30. All this loud singing and hand-raising in the vehicle may come across as crazy to other drivers.
31. I care, but I push past it and act like I don't care what they think.
32. I am a voracious reader.
33. I have been know to stay up all night to finish a good book - even as recently as this past year.
34. Shrimp make me gag. Even just looking at them.
35. I have a super-sensitive sniffer.
36. Perfumes give me headaches.
37. I can detect baby poop a mile away.
38. I don't really like pets.
39. We have a hamster.
40. We are thinking of getting a dog.
41. We had a cat once.
42. She lives with my mom.
43. My mom doesn't think we should get a dog. ;)
44. I have pathetic and miserable pregnancies.
45. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
46. Heartburn is one of the worst things I've ever felt.
47. Someday I'd like to be a doula.
48. I was fired from a job as a waitress in a sports bar.
49. I was fired from a job pumping gas.
50. Honestly, both were cases of wrongful dismissal.
51. I worked as a nanny for a few months.
52. They only paid me $4.50 per hour!
53. I have my Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology.
54. I still have $21,000 in student loans.
55. I am now, and plan to forever be, a homemaker.
56. I LOVE volunteer work.
57. I got beat up by another girl in grade 8.
58. It hurt. A lot.
59. I used to be willing to do anything to be accepted.
60. I'm surprised my mom survived it.
61. I still care a lot about being accepted.
62. Singing is one of my most fave things to do.
63. I wish I had taken singing lessons.
64. As a child, I was in dance lessons.
65. I miss it still.
66. My biggest weakness is fast food.
67. Or maybe potato chips.
68. Or perhaps sour candies.
69. Or chocolate.
70. I have a lot of vices.
71. I quit smoking for each pregnancy.
72. I quit for good in June of 2004.
73. God called me to women's ministry in June of 2004.
74. I totally miss the bar scene.
75. Not for reasons you might think - I sooooo love to dance.
76. I used to weigh 108 lbs - before children.
77. Now I'd be satisfied with 140.
78. I let myself gain way too much weight during pregnancy.
79. I love a good cry.
80. I don't do well with 'alone time.'
81. I attempted suicide in grade 7.
82. I don't think I was emotionally healthy again until my 20s.
83. I have been pregnant 7 times (one miscarriage, one ectopic, 5 little monkeys jumping on the bed).
84. My best friend and I met in college.
85. She was an adamant feminist.
86. My teen years were tumultuous, ask my mom.
87. My fave show is ER - has been since the very first episode.
88. I'm addicted to Lost.
89. I used to record Days of Our Lives.
90. Pat and my fave date is going to a movie.
91. We'll be going to a movie tonight.
92. I put my kids to bed at 8pm, strictly.
93. I am a morning person.
94. I love doing Bible studies that give daily homework.
95. Whenever I nap, I wake up grouchy.
96. I get my eyebrows tinted.
97. They're invisible without it.
98. I bite my nails.
99. I don't even notice I'm doing it.
100. I hate exercising.
101. I love blogging.
102. I adore making lists! (Have you noticed?)
In honour of my 102nd post, I present to you..... "102 Things About Me!"
1. My name is Tyler, but it's actually not.
2. My first name is Erin, but only family is allowed to call me by this name (all others who have tried have been mysteriously found unconscious in a ditch in Mexico)
3. I married my high school sweetheart, only he wasn't really.
4. I had a crush on Pat since grade 10, but we didn't start dating until after high school.
5. Pat only wanted to have one child.
6. I always dreamed of having six.
7. Today is our 9-year anniversary.
8. I LOVE math.
9. I won a math contest in grade 10 - top score in our school, top 10% in Canada.
10. I get bad (read: super moody) PMS.
11. Country music makes me happy (even the songs about wives leaving with best friends and dogs dying).
12. Before Pat, my longest dating relationship lasted four months, max.
13. I have worked as a gas jockey (though the politically correct term is gas station attendant).
14. My very best childhood friend died at the young age of 17.
15. I always look at peoples' teeth.
16. I have personal space issues.
17. I can sometimes be a bit bossy. :)
18. I was an only child until the age of 12.
19. I am always worried that I've got bad breath.
20. I hate chewing gum.
21. My mom is one of my best friends.
22. I am a yeller.
23. I used to yell at Pat when we fought. It was nasty.
24. I know a lot of people, but have few friends.
25. My favourite place to be is in the mountains.
26. My other favourite place is the beach.
27. If anyone knows a place where there are both mountains and beach, please tell me so I can move there.
28. I like to raise my hands during worship.
29. I like to sing worship music at the top of my lungs whenever I'm driving alone.
30. All this loud singing and hand-raising in the vehicle may come across as crazy to other drivers.
31. I care, but I push past it and act like I don't care what they think.
32. I am a voracious reader.
33. I have been know to stay up all night to finish a good book - even as recently as this past year.
34. Shrimp make me gag. Even just looking at them.
35. I have a super-sensitive sniffer.
36. Perfumes give me headaches.
37. I can detect baby poop a mile away.
38. I don't really like pets.
39. We have a hamster.
40. We are thinking of getting a dog.
41. We had a cat once.
42. She lives with my mom.
43. My mom doesn't think we should get a dog. ;)
44. I have pathetic and miserable pregnancies.
45. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
46. Heartburn is one of the worst things I've ever felt.
47. Someday I'd like to be a doula.
48. I was fired from a job as a waitress in a sports bar.
49. I was fired from a job pumping gas.
50. Honestly, both were cases of wrongful dismissal.
51. I worked as a nanny for a few months.
52. They only paid me $4.50 per hour!
53. I have my Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology.
54. I still have $21,000 in student loans.
55. I am now, and plan to forever be, a homemaker.
56. I LOVE volunteer work.
57. I got beat up by another girl in grade 8.
58. It hurt. A lot.
59. I used to be willing to do anything to be accepted.
60. I'm surprised my mom survived it.
61. I still care a lot about being accepted.
62. Singing is one of my most fave things to do.
63. I wish I had taken singing lessons.
64. As a child, I was in dance lessons.
65. I miss it still.
66. My biggest weakness is fast food.
67. Or maybe potato chips.
68. Or perhaps sour candies.
69. Or chocolate.
70. I have a lot of vices.
71. I quit smoking for each pregnancy.
72. I quit for good in June of 2004.
73. God called me to women's ministry in June of 2004.
74. I totally miss the bar scene.
75. Not for reasons you might think - I sooooo love to dance.
76. I used to weigh 108 lbs - before children.
77. Now I'd be satisfied with 140.
78. I let myself gain way too much weight during pregnancy.
79. I love a good cry.
80. I don't do well with 'alone time.'
81. I attempted suicide in grade 7.
82. I don't think I was emotionally healthy again until my 20s.
83. I have been pregnant 7 times (one miscarriage, one ectopic, 5 little monkeys jumping on the bed).
84. My best friend and I met in college.
85. She was an adamant feminist.
86. My teen years were tumultuous, ask my mom.
87. My fave show is ER - has been since the very first episode.
88. I'm addicted to Lost.
89. I used to record Days of Our Lives.
90. Pat and my fave date is going to a movie.
91. We'll be going to a movie tonight.
92. I put my kids to bed at 8pm, strictly.
93. I am a morning person.
94. I love doing Bible studies that give daily homework.
95. Whenever I nap, I wake up grouchy.
96. I get my eyebrows tinted.
97. They're invisible without it.
98. I bite my nails.
99. I don't even notice I'm doing it.
100. I hate exercising.
101. I love blogging.
102. I adore making lists! (Have you noticed?)
Monday, May 26, 2008
Inspired (and a Winner)
We are home from our insane super fun weekend. Yes, we were at YC with our Church's senior high youth group (that's grades 9-12 for my American friends). Good guessing everyone! Highlights coming soon...
Since this is what you've all been anxiously awaiting (I'm certain you've all got nothing better to do with your weekend than wait on my blog, right?), I'll announce the winner first.
I would like you all to visit Mary at Not Before 7 and congratulate her! In my very non-random fashion, I selected Mary for the following reasons:
#1 - she answered first,
#2 - she did research,
#3 - she used Google (you go, girl!),
#4 - she doesn't live here, and
#5 - because I can!
(LOL. Please know that I also love, love, love my other commenters/ guessers - Louise & Heidi, Barb, Bobbie, Kris, and Darlene - and you should visit their blogs, too.) Mary, I'll email you to get your mailing info. :)
Here's what Mary has won (and will receive in however long it takes me to remember to mail it, *wink). [Can I just interject a small complaint here? Okay, thanks. You will notice the price for this item on christianbook.com is quite reasonable. Yes? So I mustfume ponder the fact that it was being sold at YC, by the author himself, for a different (read: higher) price. That just doesn't seem right! Geeeeesh, people! Is there no sense of fairness in this crazy economy?! Phew. I needed that. Thanks for listening. Rant over.] I have not yet listened to this audio drama, but have heard from a number of people that it is great and that the message is powerful. Let me know what you think after you give it a listen, okay Mary?
Now, back to the inspired part...
The first speaker of the weekend was by far my favorite. John Bevere has such deep wisdom to share and he really spoke to me. (FYI, he's pretty serious and to the point, so I'm not sure that he was the best choice for a YOUTH event, but all us youth leaders were scribbling copious notes.)
The question: Why are there so many Christians without intimacy with Christ? (In other words, why are so many lacking a closeness, a deep relationship, an understanding, a friendship with Jesus?)
The answer: Psalm 25:14.
The Lord is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant. (NLT)
The LORD confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them. (NIV)
The secret of the LORD is with those who fear Him, and He will show them His covenant. (NKJV)
God-friendship is for God-worshipers; they are the ones he confides in. (MSG)
The secret [of the sweet, satisfying companionship] of the Lord have they who fear (revere and worship) Him, and He will show them His covenant and reveal to them its [deep, inner] meaning. (AMP)
Many believers today do not have the FEAR OF THE LORD in them. I have struggled with understanding the meaning of this phrase. I know that we're not supposed to feel AFRAID of God, but I have no other understanding for this word - fear.
Bevere explains this term fear as reverence, respect, admiration, awe.
It is NOT an 'Adam and Eve are naked and hiding in the bushes so they don't get caught in sin' kind of fear. Rather, it is a 'fall on your face because you can't even comprehend His majesty and greatness' kind of fear. It is NOT a 'I am going to be in so much trouble' kind of fear, but a 'I totally let you down and broke your heart and I'm so sorry I could die' kind of fear. Reverence for His Holy Name. Respect for His rules for living. Admiration for His righteousness and justness. Awe at His power and might. That is the stuff that fear of the Lord is made of.
I am sad to admit that I often approach God from a profane perspective. (Bevere defines profane as 'treating what is sacred as common, what is holy as ordinary.') I come to Him with my everyday requests, toss them at His feet, turn and go about my day. How much more ordinary could I treat HIM?! This is the ONE who spoke the earth into existence. This is the ONE who parts the seas and raises the dead! This is the ONE who let His very own baby boy die - for me. This is no ordinary man. He's not someone to be treated like the host of the radio request line. You don't just drop Him a quick line telling Him what you want and say "buh-bye." Oh. My. Goodness. It's no wonder that some days I feel totally lacking in the 'intimacy with God' department. I treat Him as if I don't even know Him!
If you've just come to the same realization as me, here are some pointers on how to reverence the Lord (a conglomeration of my thoughts and ideas and those presented by Bevere).
Take some time to reflect on who God is and what He has done (throughout time and in your own life). Start making a list of these things so you can revisit it periodically (ideally at those times when God is feeling kind-of far away).
Serve God. That is, make choices and take actions that matter to Him. Do not serve anyone else! Don't be motivated in decision-making by what others think you should do. Don't behave in certain ways for certain situations based on what others might think of you. "You will serve whom you fear." Do you fear (reverence) God? Or do you fear (are afraid of/concerned with) man?
Talk to God about everything. But more importantly, spend some time just listening. Imagine a conversation with a friend where she just goes on and on about her day and then leaves. Imagine that this happens over and over again. Would you want to spend time with that friend? Would you even feel like she sees you as a treasured friend? I suspect that we don't make God feel very special or treasured when we just talk, talk, talk without ever listening.
Obey Him. Those who have the fear of the Lord in them will obey God instantly, even if what He's asking doesn't make sense (see * below), even if it might hurt (see Genesis 22:1-18), and even if they can't see the possible benefits (see Joshua 6:1-16).
Worship the Lord. Sing songs praising Him, admire His handiwork in nature, tell your kids about how He has blessed you. Just let yourself be amazed by Him!
Try these things, and let me know if you notice a change in your relationship with the Lord. I'm going to do the same. I am not satisfied with simply being a follower of Jesus, I want to be able to declare, "I am a friend of Jesus!"
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. ~James 4:8a (NKJV)
--------------------------------------------------------------
* (To my understanding, this is a true story, as shared by my friend Jim. Names in the story have been changed due to my pathetic memory. As well, I have taken some creative liberties for the 'flow' of the story - but don't worry, the gist remains the same.)
Harriet worked hard at her professional job, and enjoyed it immensely. But she felt the need to do something more in her life. Because she had some unique talents, including gymnastics, acrobatics, funny voices, and comedy, a friend suggested she sign up to be a clown at the local children's hospital.
Harriet was on her way to spread some joy among children with cancer, when she sensed the Holy Spirit's nudging within her. For reasons unknown, she was compelled to pull into a particular gas station along the way. Though she was sure that her tank was full, Harriet pulled up to the pumps and began to fill her vehicle. "Perhaps the fuel gauge isn't working and God wants to make sure I'm not stranded on the road on my way home tonight," she thought to herself. The nozzle clicked off after only a few dollars.
Harriet walked inside to pay. On her way in she passed a Pepsi vending machine. A rather bizarre thought popped into Harriet's head, 'stand on your head in front of this pop machine.' She smiled to herself, shook her head, and walked into the store. While paying for her smidgen of fuel, Harriet felt a little tug in her heart, 'talk to him.' She looked up at the young cashier, gave a slight smile, and left. "I'm going to be late. He doesn't want to talk to an old lady anyway."
Four hours later, Harriet was headed home from the children's hospital, and she again felt compelled to pull into the service station. She ignored the feeling and continued down the road. But the odd feeling that she was supposed to go to that particular gas station just would not leave. The further she drove, the stronger the feeling became. Finally, only a couple blocks from home, Harriet turned her car around and headed back the way she'd come. She pulled into the parking lot and turned off the car. 'Stand on your head in front of the Pepsi machine,' again, the most unusual and perplexing thought!
Harriet prayed, asking the Lord, "is this You, God? Do you want me to be here? Do you want me to do a headstand on the sidewalk?" She felt a stirring in her spirit, 'yes, do it.' "But Lord," she prayed, "it makes no sense! Why would I stand on my head in the dark at a gas station?" 'Daughter,' this time the stirring inside of her felt strong - urgent, 'do what I ask.' At this point, Harriet was fairly certain God was asking her to do something. She didn't understand why. In fact, she couldn't make any sense of it. But knowing that God is well, God, Harriet decided it would be in her best interests to look crazy and obey God (rather than appear completely sane but ignore her Heavenly Father).
As Harriet was standing on her head and talking to God, the young man from earlier came out of the store. "What. Are. You. Doing?" he asked. He sounded angry. Harriet stood to her feet and told him, "well, this might sound kinda crazy, but, um, well, I think God told me to stand on my head out here. So, anyway, um, I decided that there was no harm in trying. Right?" She looked up at the young man only to see tears streaming down his face. She walked over and hugged him, and for a long time he cried while she held him.
Hiccuping and breathing in gasps and spurts, he told her his story. "My life sucks. My parents split up. My girlfriend dumped me. My friends have all ditched me. I'm a pathetic loser and I hate my life. I decided to end it all. Because everyone would be better off if I were gone, anyway. Hey - weren't you in here earlier?" She nodded. He took a deep breath.
"Just before you got here," he told Harriet, "I was about to go out the back door and shoot myself. When your car pulled in I decided to wait until after you left. Wouldn't do any good to have a stranger find me like that, all bloody and dead. After you left I kinda lost my nerve. So I told God He had one chance to convince me. If He was really real, He had to send someone to me before my shift ended. I told him that He had to make someone do a headstand right there in front 'a that pop machine. If He did that, I'd believe in Him. And I'd hold off on the whole shootin' myself thing." Harriet looked at her watch - it was 10:55pm.
Tears streaming down her face, Harriet felt that stirring again. This time she didn't doubt, she didn't hesitate. She took that boy's hands in her own and she prayed. She waited until he locked up the store, took him into her car, and brought him to her home where she introduced him to her husband, Rick. Rick was a Christian counsellor who worked closely with the local crisis and suicide intervention centre.
Since this is what you've all been anxiously awaiting (I'm certain you've all got nothing better to do with your weekend than wait on my blog, right?), I'll announce the winner first.
I would like you all to visit Mary at Not Before 7 and congratulate her! In my very non-random fashion, I selected Mary for the following reasons:
#1 - she answered first,
#2 - she did research,
#3 - she used Google (you go, girl!),
#4 - she doesn't live here, and
#5 - because I can!
(LOL. Please know that I also love, love, love my other commenters/ guessers - Louise & Heidi, Barb, Bobbie, Kris, and Darlene - and you should visit their blogs, too.) Mary, I'll email you to get your mailing info. :)
Here's what Mary has won (and will receive in however long it takes me to remember to mail it, *wink). [Can I just interject a small complaint here? Okay, thanks. You will notice the price for this item on christianbook.com is quite reasonable. Yes? So I must
Now, back to the inspired part...
The first speaker of the weekend was by far my favorite. John Bevere has such deep wisdom to share and he really spoke to me. (FYI, he's pretty serious and to the point, so I'm not sure that he was the best choice for a YOUTH event, but all us youth leaders were scribbling copious notes.)
The question: Why are there so many Christians without intimacy with Christ? (In other words, why are so many lacking a closeness, a deep relationship, an understanding, a friendship with Jesus?)
The answer: Psalm 25:14.
The Lord is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant. (NLT)
The LORD confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them. (NIV)
The secret of the LORD is with those who fear Him, and He will show them His covenant. (NKJV)
God-friendship is for God-worshipers; they are the ones he confides in. (MSG)
The secret [of the sweet, satisfying companionship] of the Lord have they who fear (revere and worship) Him, and He will show them His covenant and reveal to them its [deep, inner] meaning. (AMP)
Many believers today do not have the FEAR OF THE LORD in them. I have struggled with understanding the meaning of this phrase. I know that we're not supposed to feel AFRAID of God, but I have no other understanding for this word - fear.
Bevere explains this term fear as reverence, respect, admiration, awe.
It is NOT an 'Adam and Eve are naked and hiding in the bushes so they don't get caught in sin' kind of fear. Rather, it is a 'fall on your face because you can't even comprehend His majesty and greatness' kind of fear. It is NOT a 'I am going to be in so much trouble' kind of fear, but a 'I totally let you down and broke your heart and I'm so sorry I could die' kind of fear. Reverence for His Holy Name. Respect for His rules for living. Admiration for His righteousness and justness. Awe at His power and might. That is the stuff that fear of the Lord is made of.
I am sad to admit that I often approach God from a profane perspective. (Bevere defines profane as 'treating what is sacred as common, what is holy as ordinary.') I come to Him with my everyday requests, toss them at His feet, turn and go about my day. How much more ordinary could I treat HIM?! This is the ONE who spoke the earth into existence. This is the ONE who parts the seas and raises the dead! This is the ONE who let His very own baby boy die - for me. This is no ordinary man. He's not someone to be treated like the host of the radio request line. You don't just drop Him a quick line telling Him what you want and say "buh-bye." Oh. My. Goodness. It's no wonder that some days I feel totally lacking in the 'intimacy with God' department. I treat Him as if I don't even know Him!
If you've just come to the same realization as me, here are some pointers on how to reverence the Lord (a conglomeration of my thoughts and ideas and those presented by Bevere).
Take some time to reflect on who God is and what He has done (throughout time and in your own life). Start making a list of these things so you can revisit it periodically (ideally at those times when God is feeling kind-of far away).
Serve God. That is, make choices and take actions that matter to Him. Do not serve anyone else! Don't be motivated in decision-making by what others think you should do. Don't behave in certain ways for certain situations based on what others might think of you. "You will serve whom you fear." Do you fear (reverence) God? Or do you fear (are afraid of/concerned with) man?
Talk to God about everything. But more importantly, spend some time just listening. Imagine a conversation with a friend where she just goes on and on about her day and then leaves. Imagine that this happens over and over again. Would you want to spend time with that friend? Would you even feel like she sees you as a treasured friend? I suspect that we don't make God feel very special or treasured when we just talk, talk, talk without ever listening.
Obey Him. Those who have the fear of the Lord in them will obey God instantly, even if what He's asking doesn't make sense (see * below), even if it might hurt (see Genesis 22:1-18), and even if they can't see the possible benefits (see Joshua 6:1-16).
Worship the Lord. Sing songs praising Him, admire His handiwork in nature, tell your kids about how He has blessed you. Just let yourself be amazed by Him!
Try these things, and let me know if you notice a change in your relationship with the Lord. I'm going to do the same. I am not satisfied with simply being a follower of Jesus, I want to be able to declare, "I am a friend of Jesus!"
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. ~James 4:8a (NKJV)
--------------------------------------------------------------
* (To my understanding, this is a true story, as shared by my friend Jim. Names in the story have been changed due to my pathetic memory. As well, I have taken some creative liberties for the 'flow' of the story - but don't worry, the gist remains the same.)
Harriet worked hard at her professional job, and enjoyed it immensely. But she felt the need to do something more in her life. Because she had some unique talents, including gymnastics, acrobatics, funny voices, and comedy, a friend suggested she sign up to be a clown at the local children's hospital.
Harriet was on her way to spread some joy among children with cancer, when she sensed the Holy Spirit's nudging within her. For reasons unknown, she was compelled to pull into a particular gas station along the way. Though she was sure that her tank was full, Harriet pulled up to the pumps and began to fill her vehicle. "Perhaps the fuel gauge isn't working and God wants to make sure I'm not stranded on the road on my way home tonight," she thought to herself. The nozzle clicked off after only a few dollars.
Harriet walked inside to pay. On her way in she passed a Pepsi vending machine. A rather bizarre thought popped into Harriet's head, 'stand on your head in front of this pop machine.' She smiled to herself, shook her head, and walked into the store. While paying for her smidgen of fuel, Harriet felt a little tug in her heart, 'talk to him.' She looked up at the young cashier, gave a slight smile, and left. "I'm going to be late. He doesn't want to talk to an old lady anyway."
Four hours later, Harriet was headed home from the children's hospital, and she again felt compelled to pull into the service station. She ignored the feeling and continued down the road. But the odd feeling that she was supposed to go to that particular gas station just would not leave. The further she drove, the stronger the feeling became. Finally, only a couple blocks from home, Harriet turned her car around and headed back the way she'd come. She pulled into the parking lot and turned off the car. 'Stand on your head in front of the Pepsi machine,' again, the most unusual and perplexing thought!
Harriet prayed, asking the Lord, "is this You, God? Do you want me to be here? Do you want me to do a headstand on the sidewalk?" She felt a stirring in her spirit, 'yes, do it.' "But Lord," she prayed, "it makes no sense! Why would I stand on my head in the dark at a gas station?" 'Daughter,' this time the stirring inside of her felt strong - urgent, 'do what I ask.' At this point, Harriet was fairly certain God was asking her to do something. She didn't understand why. In fact, she couldn't make any sense of it. But knowing that God is well, God, Harriet decided it would be in her best interests to look crazy and obey God (rather than appear completely sane but ignore her Heavenly Father).
As Harriet was standing on her head and talking to God, the young man from earlier came out of the store. "What. Are. You. Doing?" he asked. He sounded angry. Harriet stood to her feet and told him, "well, this might sound kinda crazy, but, um, well, I think God told me to stand on my head out here. So, anyway, um, I decided that there was no harm in trying. Right?" She looked up at the young man only to see tears streaming down his face. She walked over and hugged him, and for a long time he cried while she held him.
Hiccuping and breathing in gasps and spurts, he told her his story. "My life sucks. My parents split up. My girlfriend dumped me. My friends have all ditched me. I'm a pathetic loser and I hate my life. I decided to end it all. Because everyone would be better off if I were gone, anyway. Hey - weren't you in here earlier?" She nodded. He took a deep breath.
"Just before you got here," he told Harriet, "I was about to go out the back door and shoot myself. When your car pulled in I decided to wait until after you left. Wouldn't do any good to have a stranger find me like that, all bloody and dead. After you left I kinda lost my nerve. So I told God He had one chance to convince me. If He was really real, He had to send someone to me before my shift ended. I told him that He had to make someone do a headstand right there in front 'a that pop machine. If He did that, I'd believe in Him. And I'd hold off on the whole shootin' myself thing." Harriet looked at her watch - it was 10:55pm.
Tears streaming down her face, Harriet felt that stirring again. This time she didn't doubt, she didn't hesitate. She took that boy's hands in her own and she prayed. She waited until he locked up the store, took him into her car, and brought him to her home where she introduced him to her husband, Rick. Rick was a Christian counsellor who worked closely with the local crisis and suicide intervention centre.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
*Giveaway* Guessing Game
Since it's been a positively boring week for anyone who's visited my blog, I figured I'd spice things up a bit and get you all back on board with me (*wink).
So here's the contest... It's gonna take a little effort. Guess where I'm going this weekend.
Okay, I'll give you a couple hints:
- I am going with Pat (it's more his thing than mine), but we will be sleeping separately.
- The event falls under the following categories: fun, loud, exhausting, refreshing, ministry, young people, old people, pastors, walking, standing, loud, fun.
- I live in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada.
- We will be travelling less than 2 hours (or less than 200 km, or less than 120 mi).
- I will not be getting ANY quiet time the entire weekend!
I apologize if this is too vague for my American friends, but if I give any more hints my local friends will have a big advantage.
The prize - a CD I purchase while I'm (there). Maybe some other cool paraphernalia too, depending how much money I have to spend on food.
This contest is open to all peeps from all nations (I can't imagine shipping on a CD to anywhere in the world can be THAT much). The winner will be, of course, the one who guesses correctly. OR, if no one is correct, whoever comes up with the most creative idea. OR, if no one comments, the winner will be ME! :) (Sorry mom, you are disqualified from the guessing. Your prize is spending an exhausting weekend with 5 little monkeys.)
So here's the contest... It's gonna take a little effort. Guess where I'm going this weekend.
Okay, I'll give you a couple hints:
- I am going with Pat (it's more his thing than mine), but we will be sleeping separately.
- The event falls under the following categories: fun, loud, exhausting, refreshing, ministry, young people, old people, pastors, walking, standing, loud, fun.
- I live in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada.
- We will be travelling less than 2 hours (or less than 200 km, or less than 120 mi).
- I will not be getting ANY quiet time the entire weekend!
I apologize if this is too vague for my American friends, but if I give any more hints my local friends will have a big advantage.
The prize - a CD I purchase while I'm (there). Maybe some other cool paraphernalia too, depending how much money I have to spend on food.
This contest is open to all peeps from all nations (I can't imagine shipping on a CD to anywhere in the world can be THAT much). The winner will be, of course, the one who guesses correctly. OR, if no one is correct, whoever comes up with the most creative idea. OR, if no one comments, the winner will be ME! :) (Sorry mom, you are disqualified from the guessing. Your prize is spending an exhausting weekend with 5 little monkeys.)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)