Poll about Soda

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I love Diet Coke, but to me, not all Diet Coke tastes the same. What do you think? Do you think bottled and canned soft drinks taste the same? Do you think a fountain soft drink tastes the same as if it had come from a can? Which one tastes the best to you? (If Diet Coke is not your favorite, the same principle applies to other soft drinks.)



Choose One
A. I like canned soda the best
B. I like bottled soda the best
C. I like fountain soda the best
D. I don't have a preference.

Katie or Meridith?

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Did anyone else watch the Today Show today? It was Meridith's first day. Do you like her better, or wish Katie would come back? Or, do you just not care either way?

I have been a Today Show junkie for a LONG time. I am not sure what I think yet. I suppose time will tell.

Definition Please

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We can all pick up a dictionary and look up a word, or pop on-line to dictionary.com to find out what a word means. But, at the same time, we all assign some unique meanings to some words based on our world-view, religion, culture, or some other variable.

Please define GOSSIP.

9-11...5 years later

It is hard to believe that it has been 5 years since America was attacked by terrorists. I am sure that we all remember exactly where we were, and exactly what we were doing when the news came: "Two planes have crashed into the twin towers in New York." I doubt that any of us will ever forget the sound of the reporter's voices, the chills that we felt shoot up our spines, or the tears that fell so freely from our eyes that day. 9-11 changed our lives- Forever.

Today we mark the 5 year anniversary of this horrible event, and yet I am starting to see a lot more hope and healing instead of hate and anger. I am thankful for that hope and healing, and I am thankful that we serve a God that provides us with a security that this life can never afford.

Just like many of you, I am praying for the families directly affected by the 911 tragedy, and for our country as a whole, and I am praying for unity and peace throughout the world. Our God is capable of healing the deepest wounds, and I am praying that we will all open our hearts to the healing that He offers. I am seeking God's guidance for our leaders, and praying that God will pierce the hearts of those who refuse him, and serve evil instead. I am praying that goodness will overcome evil, hate will become absent, and brotherly love will become the norm in our world.

May God bless each one of us as we look back today on 9-11-2001 and may He fill us with His spirit.

God bless America.

Football Season

Well, believe it or not, it is football season again. We have spent most of the day in between church and small group watching things get started in the NFL. I like football pretty well. I used to hate it, but it really is pretty entertaining, and when the game itself isn't so entertaining, usually the people I am with while watching the game are entertaining enough for me!

At this moment, we are watching the Indiana Colts face off against the New York Giants. Many of you know that this game has been anticipated by a lot of football fans for a long time. No, it is no Superbowl, but it is the first time that brothers Payton and Eli Manning are playing against each other in the big league. Who will win? Payton's Colts or Eli's Giants?

Are you a football fan?

GO RAMS!

Watch this.

If you have already seen this on Eric's blog, that's okay, it is worth watching again.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAdq8kJUw8I

I think that we have our priorities just a little bit mixed up. This video was a real eye opener for me. Please take a second to watch it.

Thanks Eric, for opening my eyes...again.

Crrraaaaazzzzzy Bekah

...or should I say crazy Mrs. Trenkler, from the Legand of Sleepy Hollow. I would have never guessed in a million years that Bekah would want me to post this picture out here on the world wide web, but she told me that the picture represents her current theatre character well. So, we chose to use it. (Obviously it is not the best picture of her in the world!)

Anyway, Bekah is in yet another play. In fact, she is actually in 2 plays at the current moment, but has been ask to kindly choose between the 2. She is already involved with about a zillion things- 2 plays is a little much for anyone, much less a 13 year old who makes family, school, church, music AND theatre all priorities.

So, she wasn't too thrilled with the idea of having to choose, but in the end, "The Legand of Sleepy Hollow" won over "George M." I was glad that she chose the school production over the community theatre production this time.

For all of Bekah's theatre fans, we will keep you posted on production dates, and will let you know when tickets go on sale!

Break a leg Bekah-Boo, we love you and are proud of you!

I Don't Get It

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As some of you know, I have been reading the Daily Bible. I am finally caught up again. I have to admit, that I just don't get some of it. I consider myself to be relatively smart, but some of it I just can't figure out. Don't get me wrong. It isn't the content that I find difficult to understand; it is the reasoning behind what I am reading.

For example, today's reading came out out of the book of Ezekial 44-48. Why did God choose to share this with us? Why do priest's garments matter to us? Why do we need to know the exact dimemensions of the city gates? Why does God choose to share such specific details about the division of land and the specifics of tribes?

What am I supposed to be gaining from this reading? If I am supposed to becoming more and more thankful for Jesus and the grace that I am covered by when I can't adhere to the Law; it is working!

Does anyone have any thoughts about why God gives us SO MANY details?

The Office

As you all know, I love my job. Working for the YMCA is such a blessing. Really the only complaint I have had at all is that the office that I moved into was a mint green color. I suppose that if you are expecting a new baby and are unsure of its gender, mint green might be an okay choice. But for me, it was AWEFUL. Even before I was officially hired, they told me that I could have it painted any color I wanted, I have just been too busy doing about a zillion other things, so it got put on the back burner for the last few months.

Well, this past weekend, Jason, my mom, and I decided to take the time to get it done. I chose brown and pink paint, and baskets for accent pieces. My friend Ray, (who is very much like Larry at church) said that he would paint it for me, but I figured that it would be good family time, and I think Ray works too hard already! This picture shows one view of my office. It is certainly not a Donald Trump kind of office, but I love it! It is great to have my own space, decorated the way I like it!

Here are some of the comments I heard today from my co-workers: “You didn’t tell me you were going to be on Trading Spaces- Your office looks great!” “It looks wonderful; it is so homey and comfortable.” “You did a great job- Wanna help me with mine?” “I think that you paid someone to do it for you- it looks like an interior decorator did this!” “If this were my office, I would never want to leave; I am so jealous.”

I am glad that my office is done and that it looks so much better. I am also glad that people think that it looks nice, and that they have been inspired to make their offices better too.

This picture is of two of my co-workers, Cesar and Lisa. Lisa recently resigned as the Associate Executive Director, and Cesar will now assume her position. Lisa passed on the witch’s hat with good reason. The Associate Exec is usually the “bad guy.” I personally don’t think either of them has a “bad” bone in their bodies. They are awesome to work with.

Well, I suppose I have rambled on long enough. Feel free to stop by and see my office in person anytime!

Miss Gin

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From the front of the church auditorium, I grabbed my microphone and began to sing. The service was pretty much like any other worship service: prayers, songs, communion, sharing of the Word, and fellowship. I felt the sudden onset of tears. My throat closed up a bit, and I had a hard time choking out the words. I missed her being there. I missed the hug that I always managed to get before services and the smile that would brighten anyone’s day.

For only a moment, I glanced back to the church pew where she always sat. I knew that she wouldn’t be there, but I was hoping against all hope. I really wanted her to be there. I looked back and she wasn’t there, just as I knew she wouldn’t be, but my tears dried up, and I felt a sense of joy.

I smiled as I realized that Miss Gin’s pew was filled with her family. Where my 92 year-old friend once sat, now was filled with her daughters, sons in law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family members. Miss Gin could be seen in their faces, attitudes and actions. My tears were gone, because Miss Gin wasn’t there in the flesh, but she was exemplified by the family that she loved so much.

I was honored to spend a good part of today with Miss Gin’s family. As the day went on, it became more and more evident how much impact that she had in each of their lives. Miss Gin taught her family how to live, love, serve, respect each other, and reach out to others. She taught them so much about God, mercy, and the saving grace of Jesus, and she taught them to share the love of Christ with everyone around them. Miss Gin wasn’t with us today in the flesh, but her legacy was all around, and her presence through her family couldn’t be missed by anyone who knew and loved her. Miss Gin was there.

A long time ago, I blogged about Miss Gin. To be exact, it was January 1, 2006. I am so thankful that she had the opportunity to read my tribute to her before she passed from this life. Unfortunately, she can’t read this blog today, but I know that she knew that I loved her very much and that I was thankful for the influence she had on her family and on those around her.

It is true that we won’t see Miss Gin in the 6th or 7th pew at church ever again. But if you look at her family, you will see her smile, feel her touch, and be reminded of who she was, and everything she stood for.

I love her very much, and I look forward to seeing her again someday.

(Picture "borrowed" from Miranda' blog! Thanks, Miranda- I hope you don't mind!)

Prayer

This is so neat. I had never heard this before...This is beautiful - and it is surely worth making the 5 finger prayer a part of our lives.

1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."

2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.

3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.

4. The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger, as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.

5. And lastly comes our little finger the smallest finger of all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "The least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.

Today, I especially praying for the Runcie family, healing for those who are suffering from broken relationships, the body at McKnight, the Bearden family, the Magnuson family, and my immediate and extended family.

Are there any other special prayer requests anyone wants to add for others to be praying about too?

Gone Home

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"Miss Gin"

July 25, 1914- August 31, 2006

I’ve gone home to see my Father,

I’ve gone home, so don’t you cry.
I’ll be waiting for you in Heaven,

In my mansion prepared on high.
No more sickness, no more sorrow,

No more pain, and no more grief.
I’ve gone home to be with Jesus.
Though my sojourn here was brief.
I’ve gone home to live in Heaven
With all the blessed saints of old,
Here with Abraham and David
To stroll through streets of gold.
But there’s something else more beautiful,
So precious, beyond this crystal sea,
As I wander through realms of glory
I find my Savior walks with me.
I’ve gone home to be in Heaven
Where there’s no sadness, and no night.
There is joy and peace unending,
In this blissful land of light.
I’ve gone home to be in Heaven,
Though you miss me, and tears abound,
Just keep believing in God’s promises,
And listening for that trumpet sound.
Because one day in God’s timing
When the Lord calls out your name
Look to the skies in awe and wonder -
We’ll see each other again.

Finally a Family of Four!

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We are so excited. We have waited a LONG time for Jennifer to become a permenant and legal part of our family. Finally, it has happened.

Jen started at Ladue High School last Friday and is adjusting well. She and Bekah are closer than ever before, and have even opted to share a room! They are great friends, and even though they are cousins, they are more like sisters. YOU SHOULD HEAR THEM ARGUE! :)

I could go on and on about both of our girls, but I think that I will just say how much we love them and how proud we are of them both!



They are a couple of great kids, and we are blessed to have them both! God is so good!
As you can see, they are a couple of crazy girls- but we wouldn't have them any other way.

WE LOVE YOU BOTH!

Opinions Please?

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Tomorrow is another audition day for Bekah. She has her song selected, her jazz shoes ready, and her acting resume is polished and ready to go! Now, all she has to decide on is a picture for the director. She can't decide which one she likes best, so we thought it would be fun to put them out here and let the whole blogging world vote.

Please tell us which picture you like best!

This is cool...

Okay, call me weird. I think that this is so cool. On Monday, we started shut-down at our YMCA location. Basically, all that means is that we are still open to our members and guests, but we take these 2 weeks each year to clean and make repairs in our branch.

The pictures on this post are of our pool. It is 13 feet deep at it's deepest point. Anyway, each year the pool is drained and is cleaned and repairs are made if needed. Rumor has it that a great time is had by staff members during shut down once we start refilling the pool. The plan is this: While the pool is still closed to members, we will begin the refilling process. This is a long process, as I am sure you can imagine! IT IS A BIG POOL! Well, once there is about 2 inches of water in the shallow end (which would mean there would be about 8 feet in the deep end), we will take turns running through the few inches of water in the shallow end and sliding into the deep end. If you are having a hard time picturing it, think of sliding into second base and winding up on a water slide! Some have even thought of having a staff contest for best form, fastest run, etc. I LOVE MY JOB!

As you can see from the pictures, we aren't quite ready for our little pool party! If we can get all of the details worked out...including approval from the "powers that be" I will post pictures!

Don't worry honey and girls... NO DIVING FOR ME!

Happy Birthday!

This picture is of Jennifer at a recent youth group event. I know that this may come as a surprise to many of you, but Jennifer was acting crazy (SHOCKER!), and she got caught on film.

Today is Jen's 17th birthday!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR JENNIFER....
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

We love you!

Stupidist Quote EVER!

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Okay, GET THIS.

"A recent US News and World Report study shows that 3 out of every 4 people make up 75% of the population."

DUH!

Has anyone ever heard of a proof-reader or an editor?

Anyone else know of any stupid quotes?

It's Only a Penny

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When my grandmother died, she left her extensive coin collection to her grandchildren. It has taken almost 2 full years to go through them all and divide them between the 10 of us. It was a lot of work, and it was very emotional for me. It was really cool to remember all of the times that Grandma and I sat at the kitchen table filling coin books. Those are good memories for me.

Well, anyway, after lots of sorting and cataloging, it was time to take some of the coins to the coin dealer to find out what they were worth. The dealer opened all of the coins and made offers. We saved the sets for last, thinking that they may be worth more. The time came for him to review a complete book of pennies. He opened the book, and his jaw dropped. He said, "No, surely it can't be." He got out his little magnifying glass and examined the coin. The more he looked, the more excited we got. Then he excused himself for a minute to use the phone. Later, we found out that he was making a call to another coin expert in the area. Ten minutes later, the coin expert came into the store. Upon his examination, we learned that we did in fact have a very rare and exciting coin.

It was announced to us that we had a 1909 S VDB penny in our book. He offered us 450.00 for it! Can you imagine? $450.00 for ONE penny? There were several other pennies of great worth in our book. They ranged in price from about $4.00- to $450.00. We sold the penny book for $700.00. Wow, who knew that pennies could be worth so much?

I wanted to share my exciting news with you all! I was also going to share with you about our 1916 D Mercury Dime, but I didn't want to bore you too much.

So friends, clean out your car, look under the cushions of the couch, and in all your pockets. The loose change that you find may be worth a lot more than you think,... and if it isn't, you can always send it to CFS for the Timothy Campaign! (It is never too late!)

Horror Film

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This is pretty funny. What would YOUR personal

horror movie look like?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR JASON!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

I LOVE YOU!

Celebrating 20 Years of Blessings

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It was a hot summer day. In fact, if memory serves me correctly, it was the hottest day that summer in St. Louis. It was August 14, 1986, and I was only 16 years old. I loved summer, and swimming was one of my favorite things to do.

I was spending the day with my best friend Shelia at a private pool when my life changed forever. I was a great swimmer. I had taken several years of swimming lessons from our local YMCA when I was a child. Shelia was also a good swimmer, and had taken lessons from the YMCA. In spite of what we had been taught, a terrible accident happened that day.

I dove into the pool, and struck my head on the bottom. I immediately floated up to the top. I was face down, and I was unable to move. I was very afraid, and I knew that something had gone terribly wrong. I remember thinking, “I am going to drown.” I remember seeing the air bubbles float up around me as Shelia jumped into the pool. As she turned me over, she said, “Dead man’s float is not funny.” I labored for a breath, and said, “I am not kidding; I am really hurt.”

Remembering what she had learned about water safety at the YMCA and her High School Health class, she began to question me. It didn’t take us long to figure out that while I was very aware of who I was and what was happening, I had been paralyzed by the blow that I took as I struck my head on the bottom of the pool.

Shelia held me very still. She screamed for help, but no one came. I tried to scream, but breathing alone was a difficult task for me. We knew that we had a very difficult decision to make. Since I was unable to move, Shelia couldn’t leave me in the water to go get help. If she didn’t go get help, who knows what would have happened. The longer we waited, the more afraid I became. Finally, I said, “Shelia, get me out of this pool before I die.”

Remembering a technique that she had learned in a class, Shelia grabbed a raft, pushed it under the water beneath me and allowed it to hold my weight. Even though some movement was inevitable, she was able to provide a great deal of stability to my neck, and I was no longer floating in the water.

The ambulance came, and I was taken to a local hospital. I later learned that my mother had been called and told that if she wanted to say good-bye to her daughter, that she had better hurry. The doctors believed that I would die within the hour.

Twenty-years, 3 surgeries, years of physical and occupational therapy, and the grace of God have brought me to where I am today. I believe with all of my heart that it is because of the skills that we learned at the YMCA so many years ago that I am now a fully functioning adult. Things could have turned out so differently if we had not had the training that we were lucky enough to have.

Today, I am a wife and a mother. I am active in the community and in my church. I walk, talk, and feed and bathe myself. I am basically pain free, and I and lead a normal life. I was told that even if I did live, I would never do any of these things.

First and foremost, I credit God with my recovery. It was the strength, courage, and desire that He gave me that ultimately got me through this tragedy. A broken neck is bad, no matter how you look at it but I credit the YMCA with keeping my injuries to a minimum by teaching us water safety skills in our swim classes.

As I lead a normal life now, I am so thankful that I have been given the amazing opportunity to be part of the team of employees at the YMCA of Greater St. Louis that helps to keep kids safe. I am so thankful to be part of a team that makes a difference in people’s lives. I know that the Y sure made a huge difference in mine. Sometimes it amazes me how things can come full circle in our lives.

I have much to celebrate and be thankful for on this unexpected 20th anniversary.

Another Great Day!

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Today has been a great day. We started the day with a wonderful worship service. Jimmy did an awesome job and the song service was great. I love singing with the praise team. Anyway, then we came home, had lunch and hung around the house. We finished cataloging Grandma’s coins, and then we had dinner with great friends at J Bucks. Now we are at home, I am writing and Jason is watching football, and the girls are spending the night with Nici and Allie. I am very tired tonight, and will turn in soon.

Tomorrow is a special day for me. I will celebrate 20 years of a major blessing tomorrow. Please come back tomorrow to read more about it.

What did you do today?

L-A-Z-Y!

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Okay, I have no problem admitting it.... I have decided to be lazy tonight! It has been a busy week at work! I have had plenty to do, which is a great change from my previous job! I love being busy, but I also love to relax once in a while too.

Tonight is like any girl's dream... I am sitting in front of the TV, watching "What Not to Wear," drinking Diet Coke, talking with my family, and playing this VERY addictive game!

http://www.hurtwood.demon.co.uk/Fun/copter.swf

What about you? What are you doing tonight?
I am being LAZY!

In the Year 2029...

We've just come in from church, and have settled down with a glass of wine and are watching the Cardinals face off against the Reds. Before I turn in for the night, I thought that I would take a minute to share a funny (and scary) email that I received from a good friend today. Can you think of any other headlines for 2029.

HEADLINES FROM THE YEAR 2029:
Ozone created by electric cars now killing millions in the seventh largest country in the world, Mexifornia, formerly known as California. White minorities still trying to have English recognized as Mexifornia's third language.

Spotted Owl plague threatens northwestern United States crops and livestock.

Baby conceived naturally. Scientists stumped.

Couple petitions court to reinstate heterosexual marriage.

Last remaining Fundamentalist Muslim dies in the AmericanTerritory of the Middle East (formerly known as Iraq,Afghanistan, Syria and Lebanon).

Iran still closed off; physicists estimate it will take at least 10 more years before radioactivity decreases to safe levels.

France pleads for global help after being taken over by Jamaica.

Castro finally dies at age 112; Cuban cigars can now be imported legally, but President Chelsea Clinton has banned all smoking.

George Z. Bush says he will run for President in 2036.

Postal Service raises price of first class stamp to $17.89 and reduces mail delivery to Wednesdays only.

85-year $75.8 billion study: Diet and Exercise is the key to weight loss.

Average weight of Americans drops to 250 lbs.

Massachusetts executes last remaining conservative.

Supreme Court rules punishment of criminals violates their civil rights.

Average height of NBA players is now nine feet, seven inches.

New federal law requires that all nail clippers, screwdrivers, fly swatters and rolled-up newspapers must be registered by January 2036.

Congress authorizes direct deposit of formerly illegal political contributions to campaign accounts.

IRS sets lowest tax rate at 75 percent.

Florida voters still having trouble with voting machines.

Too Funny Not to Share!

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This is just too funny to keep to myself!


A Priest, a Pentecostal preacher, and a Rabbi, all served as chaplains to the students of Northern Michigan University in Marquette. They would get together two or three times a week for coffee and to talk shop. One day, someone made the comment that preaching to people isn't really all that hard. A real challenge would be to preach to a bear. One thing led to another and they decided to do an experiment. They would all go out into the woods, find a bear, preach to it, and attempt to convert it. Seven days later, they're all together to discuss the experience.

Father Flannery, who has his arm in a sling, is on crutches, and has various bandages, goes first. "Well," he says, "I went into the woods to find me a bear. And when Ifound him I began to read to him from the Catechism. Well, that bear wanted nothing to do with me and began to slap me around. So I quickly grabbed my holy water, sprinkled him and, Holy Mary Mother of God, he became as gentle as a lamb. The bishop is coming out next week to give him first communion and confirmation."

Reverend Billy Bob spoke next. He was in a wheelchair, with an arm and both legs in casts, and an IV drip. In his best fire and brimstone oratory he claimed, "WELL brothers, you KNOW that we don't sprinkle! I went out and I FOUND me a bear. And then I began to read to my bear from God's HOLY WORD! But that bear wanted nothing to do with me. So I took HOLD of him and we began to wrestle. We wrestled down one hill, UPanother and DOWN another until we came to a creek. So I quick DUNKED him and BAPTIZED his hairy soul. And just like you said, he became as gentle as a lamb. We spent the rest of the day praising Jesus."

They both looked down at the Rabbi, who was lying in a hospital bed, in a body cast and traction, with IV's and monitors running in and out of him. He was in bad shape.
The Rabbi looks up and says, "Looking back on it, circumcision may nothave been the best way to start....."

Way Back on Broadway!

Wow! After weeks of rehearsal and 4 nights of performances, Way Back on Broadway has come to a close. Bekah had a great time in this show and made lots of new friends. Here is a picture of her with her friend Jonathan. Bekah made us very proud during her performances in this show. I mean don't get me wrong, we are always proud of her, but she impressed us in this show by her acting, singing and dancing skills, as well as her ability to relate well to the rest of the cast. Bekah was the youngest in the show...by almost a full 3 years! You would have never known it- she was a star!
Bekah played the lead role from Gypsy as Baby June... and did a FABULOUS job. I don't think she should die her hair blonde anytime soon though.... what do you think?

She also played the lead role from ANNIE. Umm..... once again, GREAT VOCALS.... but I am not supporting a new curly red hairdo for our girl!

WAY BACK ON BROADWAY was a great show, and while I am glad that it is over in a lot of ways, I will miss parts of it too. Jason, Jennifer and I ran concessions, and I handled the "ticket office." It was great to be able to support Bekah and her show. It was a great success.

A special thanks to all who came to see Bekah too! It meant a lot to her.... and to us.

If you'd like to read more about the play, and get someone else's opinion besides a very proud stage mother's.... check out www.entritschler.blogspot.com

We will keep you posted about Bekah's upcoming performances- she is already talking about the next auditions (August 30).

I Love You

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Tonight Bob N. taught class at church. His topic was "love" and he did a great job. He asked this question... "When you tell your wife that you love her, what does that mean?" So, I thought this was a good place to open up a forum for people to discuss what it means when we say, "I love you" to our spouse or significant other?

(Note, this question is open to both men and women.)

"I'm Hot"

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One of the aspects of my job is meeting with board members and donors. Basically the meetings occur simply to provide an opportunity for me to tell them how much they are appreciated, face to face. Today was full of donor meetings.

As I drove to one of my meetings, I enjoyed being alone in my car, listening to my CDs and enjoying the air conditioner blasting on high. I also enjoyed the large iced tea that was sitting next to me in the convenient cup holder and the security I felt knowing that my cell phone was fully charged if I should find myself in need of any kind of help. I was also thinking about how wonderful it was to have a company Visa card that paid for the gas that was required to get me from one place to another, and for the lunches that I have with donors on days like these. In spite of the 102 temperature outside, I was calm, cool, and very comfortable as I visited with my new friends.

One of the visits I had to make was down near Busch Stadium, just off of Locust Street. I made my visit and headed back West, toward the office. As I stopped at a red light, my attention was drawn to a park located just to my left. I couldn’t help but notice the small groups of people who were gathered. It didn’t take me long to figure out that these small groups were families. There were children running around and playing, and adults propped up against trees engaged in conversation. I thought to myself, “What are they, nuts? It is 100 degrees outside and the heat index is 110!”

I felt a sense of guilt and shame when I noticed that the families in this park were sitting on suitcases, and had sleeping bags and garbage bags full of their belongings close to their sides. There I was enjoying the air conditioning and the iced tea, in my comfortable car, with gas that was paid for by someone else, and the park before me was full of homeless people.

I would love to tell you that I circled the block and went back and gave them the money that I had just withdrawn from the bank, but I didn’t. I would love to tell you that I stopped and gave them my card from the YMCA and offered them a ride to our cooling center…but I didn’t. I would love to tell you that I told them all about Jesus and His love, but I didn’t. I would love to tell you that I told them all about our food panty at McKnight, but I didn’t. I whispered a little prayer for them and drove on.

I got back to the office, and everyone was talking about how hot it was outside. People were a bit on the crabby side because they were “so hot.” All I could do was think about those families in the park. They have no place to go for respite. They have no freezer to make ice, they have no money to buy ice cream when the truck goes by, and they have no home to go to just to get away from the sun beating down on them. They have no place to go.

To be honest, I don’t know what I would do differently if I encountered the same situation tomorrow. I have to remember that safety is important too. But I will tell you this, what I saw today changed my attitude about “being hot” and “being comfortable.”

That is why I chose to share this with you- I hope it makes you think about things just a little bit differently too.

If you are sitting in front of your computer, in the comfort of your own home, in the air conditioning, YOU ARE INCREDIBLY BLESSED, AND INCREDIBLY WEALTHY.

It is my prayer that each of us will count our blessings today, and figure out some way to give back to those in need.

Is it ever okay to lie?

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Is it ever okay to not be completely truthful? Obviously we are told in Scripture that we are not to be liars. But is it EVER okay to tell a lie?

I am specifically thinking of these situations:

What if you are being asked to lie by your boss? (which I am not, just for the record)
What if you are being asked to lie because the truth will cause chaos?
What if telling the truth greatly impacts the quality of your life or the life of another?
What if you are being asked to lie by someone who has authority over you in some way?

I don't think that it is okay to lie. This opinion has gotten me into trouble many, many times, because I have told the truth in some situations. I have been asked to be less than truthful many times in recent months, and I have really struggled with it. I don't think that it is okay to ask someone to sin, and lying is absolutely sin. So, I have refused to lie, and been portrayed as the bad guy. Was I wrong? Is it EVER okay to lie? What if telling the truth provokes others to stumble or sin? (Do you believe that God always provides another option besides sin?)

Is it ever okay to lie? I think not.
What do you think?

It's Show Time!

Many of you have asked about Bekah's play. "Way Back on Broadway" is this coming week and opens on Thursday evening and continues through Sunday afternoon. There are shows on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The only matinee is on Sunday.

The show will be at St. Timothy's Church, near 44 and Jamison. Tickets are $10.00 each and Bekah can take your ticket order and check if you would like to attend!

Marble Stage Theater is a new theater company, and they are not expecting a big crowd as a result. Please come and show Bekah your support if you can!

To our sweet Bekah- WE LOVE YOU AND ARE SO PROUD OF YOU! (Do we have to start calling you Baby June or Annie?)

YMCA

I love my job! To be honest with you, it is the best place I have ever worked. The staff is kind and always functions as a team. Christian principles are clearly respected and practiced. Good work is noticed and appreciated. Work that falls below standards is noticed and taken care of. People are required to take responsibility for their actions, both good and bad. The staff is focused on member and guest service and is committed to upholding the YMCA Mission Statement.

YMCA MISSION STATEMENT
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that enhance personal growth and improve health of spirit, mind and body for all.

Of course it is not perfect, but it a FABULOUS place to be and work! I thank God for placing His hand on me and providing me with a career at the YMCA of Greater St. Louis, where “We build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.”

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

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Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday Miss Gin!
Happy Birthday to you!

Happy 92nd Birthday!

We love you!

Blogging brought to a halt!

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WOW! What a crazy week this has been!

As you may have noticed, it has been almost a week since I found my way on to a computer to blog! This fact is not without reason. Here is the story.

Monday was a normal beginning to my week, except for Jason was in Portland on a business trip. So that left me completely on my own...(awww... poor Conni). Anyway, it was a very tiring day at work, Bekah had rehearsal, and my mom and I had plans together that evening. No time to blog.

Tuesday started with prayer group (a highlight of my week), then it was off to Bread Co. for breakfast with friends, then on to work. After work I had several errands to run, and by the time Bekah and I got home, I was exhausted.... No time to blog.

Wednesday was when the real fun began! I had a normal day at work, (except I had a workman's comp training), dinner with my two best buddies and Bekah, and then took Bekah to rehearsal. I had a few things to return to Kohl's, so I headed that way. The sun was shining when I went in. Don't let that fool you. Within about 10 minutes of arriving at Kohl's, I heard, "Attention Kohl's customers, due to the tornado in the area, we must ask all customers to go to the customer service area." WHAT? Okay, so I went to the customer service area. Then the lights went out. And they stayed out. No power- no blog.

Thursday- It was a normal work day. The lights were still out and it was 105 degrees outside. At least Jason was home finally, so we could be miserable together. We stayed with some friends from church because they had power! No power- not home- couldn't blog.

Friday- Work was normal, most of the trees in the roads were cleared, and some people had finally gotten electricity. While I was at work, I called home, and guess what? The answering machine answered! Hooray! We had power! Now, don't get too excited- another storm was fast approaching... there were strong winds, and yep, you guessed it- We lost power again. So, we packed up again, and headed to my mom's (by that point she had power). Not home- can't blog.

Saturday, I went shopping with mom and then the 4 of us went to see Les Miserables at the Fox. I tried to call home. STILL NO POWER! ARRRRRGGG! After the show we went to Tuckers for a steak dinner (Yes, M.R. I had steak). Then I called our house again, and HOORAY, we had power again! So we headed home. I was exhausted! Too tired to blog.

Today has been a great day! We had an AMAZING worship service, lunch with good friends (thanks again Brad and Sue), and then we came home. Jennifer is home from the mission trip, Bekah is doing very well after her recent ordeal, and Jason and I are doing very well- unless you count the fact that we are very tired. So, now is the first time I have had to blog!

Today, I am thankful for a great family, great friends, an amazing God, and ELECTRICITY!

On a side note- Happy Birthday to Steele G. (He is 39 today).
And on another side note- please keep folks in the St. Louis area in your prayers... There are still over 300,000 Ameren UE customers without power.

Queen of Shopping!

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If you need a personal shopper, I am your woman. Call me and let me know what you need, and I will find it for you, and I will find it cheap!

Tonight I went to DSW as I really needed a new pair of shoes. Okay, maybe I didn't need them, but I wanted a new pair of shoes. So, I headed to the shoe store after I dropped Bekah off at rehearsal. Now, get a load of this...

I found the cutest black shoes... and the cutest navy shoes... AND a very cute (not THE cutest, but still cute) pair of brown shoes. MMmmmm.... I had talked myself into ONE pair of shoes since I haven't received my first paycheck yet... there was NO WAY I could justify THREE new pairs of shoes. Or could I?

Black shoes: Regular Price $89
Navy shoes: Regular Price $74
Brown shoes: Regular Price $67

That is a lot of money for shoes! Well, the nice lady who works at DSW said, "Ma'm are you aware that we are having a sale?" Well, to make a long story short, I walked out of the store with 3 new pairs of shoes...TOTAL COST: $59.77 charged to my credit card! WOW!

I love shoes, and I love shopping, but I love saving money more!

Anyone out there know where I can get work clothes (business) for a really great deal? I'd like to get a few more skirts and shirts...but I never pay full price for anything! Does anyone out there have a coupon that they want to share?

Taking Another Poll

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Day planner or Palm Pilot?

CFS Golf Tournament

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Today was the CFS Golf Tournament. A great time was had by all in spite of the fact that it was unbelievably hot. Here are a few pictures from the day.

Office Manager, and great friend, Robin, Executive Director of CFS, Mike R., and Volunteer, ToriHere is Jason putting in putting contest. He had never golfed before today, but he had a great time with his team: Brandon, Randy, and JD. They even won a prize! (REALLY)

Here is Nate K. Nate is an amazing golfer, and today he won the chipping contest. (Not that I know what that means!)

These are two good friends, Becky K. and Brad S. Both are wonderful people!

Brian H. was the winner of the putting contest! I was lucky enough to be on the hole when he made the winning shot, but to tell you the truth, the shot before the winning shot was the one worth talking about! Ask Sarah, Robin, Jenny, or me to tell you the story!

Chris E. and Eric C. are also good friends of mine, and members at McKnight. They had a great time golfing today too!

Brandon B. was on a team with Jason, and they all got pretty excited when the ball came anywhere near the hole! They did great for never having played a tournament before! Good job guys!

Here is yet another McKnight team! (L-R) Bob, Ronnie, Steve, and Brad were lucky enough to place in the tournament today! Good job!

It was really hot, but a lot of fun! A lot of money was raised today to help children and families in need. I am thankful to have the ability to volunteer for such a wonderful organization.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

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Today is my 36th birthday. I got up to find a huge fountain diet coke (my favorite) next to my bed and a nice card from Jason. Then I was off to work. I checked my voice mail messages, only to hear my boss (who is at a conference all day) sining "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" to me on my voice mail. The morning was pretty typical... putting out small fires, meeting with customers, handling staff issues... blah blah. Then my mom surprised me and showed up at work to take me to lunch. We had a very nice time. When I returned to work, I opened my office door to find a HUGE banner across my back wall that read, HAPPY BIRTHDAY CONNI. It felt good to be loved and appreciated at work. About an hour later, one of the employees came into my office and said, "Conni, we have a problem out here and I need your help." I took a deep breath, not knowing exactly what I was walking into, and when I came around the corner, the staff was standing there, with a cake, singing "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" After I blew out the candles, (yes, there were even candles), I ate cake and enjoyed a few minutes with the staff. Then it was back to work. Then there was another knock at my door. A very dear couple at church (whom I dearly love) sent me a BEAUTIFUL plant for my birthday! HOW NICE IS THAT?

I am sure that the birthday fun isn't over yet! This evening, I will spend some quality birthday time with Jason and the girls.

Today I am very thankful for a wonderful staff at the YMCA, a great family, and great friends.

Taking a Poll

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What color(s) should I paint my office?

I Have NOT Fallen Off the Face of the Earth

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Thanks for your emails... No, I haven't fallen off the face of the earth. I am just very busy and very tired. My job is going great...I am having a blast. I am just tired.

I promise an update soon.

How is everyone else doing?

Mr. & Mrs. Paul and Jodi Mitchell

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Today was a wonderful, and very tiring day. Today one of my very best friends got married. Jodi and Paul have been engaged since last November and have been anxiously planning and waiting for this day to finally arrive. The picture below shows 4 good friends, (L-R), Conni, Paul, Jodi and Robin.

The ceremony was beautiful, and will be remembered for a long time by all who were in attendance. I am so thankful that I was asked to share their special day with them. The picture below is of Mike R. at the rehearsal on Friday night. He did a beautiful job playing the guitar, and I was honored to be able to sing "I Will Be Here." Mike is a very talented musician and can make anyone sound good that he is working with.

A lot of work went into making this day special for Paul and Jodi. They both have amazingly supportive and loving families. I was amazed, and a little envious too, at how close they all are and how well they all worked together to make this the best day possible for the bride and groom! The picture below is of (L-R) Melissa (Jodi's sister), Jodi, and Karen, (mom).

Well, I am very tired, but I wanted to share these pictures with you before I settle in for the night. I wish Paul and Jodi all the best, and I love you both! Have fun in Mexico! Oh- I almost forgot...Paul, you still can't come to our Wednesday dinners just because you married her! IF JASON CAN'T COME... YOU CAN'T COME EITHER! :)

It's Official!

Well, it is official.

I have accepted a position as part of the management team of a great nationwide company. My official title is “Executive Assistant to the District Vice President.” I am THRILLED.

The benefits are great….
The money is more than twice what I was making at the church (plus benefits)...
The hours are flexible...
Christian principles are welcomed and followed...
Writing is HUGE part of the job (hooray)...
I will still get to go to prayer group on Tuesday mornings...
It is VERY close to home...
I will NEVER be bored- there is plenty to do!
There are a lot of different kinds of things to do…
People are nice….

What else can I tell you?

I am so excited and praise God for answered prayer!

Baby Davis is here!

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Congratulations to Scott and Everlie! Baby Davis Shane was born on Friday, June 30th. Everyone is at home and doing well. Congratulations also to big brothers Ethan and Logan. We miss you all! We are praying for you and your new little one.

More Birthday Surprises!

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As all who read my blog already know, Sunday was Bekah's 13th birthday. We wanted to make it a very special day for her. Thirteen is a very big deal in our family. In addition to her surprise at the theatre on Friday night, she was surprised in a few other ways too!

On Saturday morning, Jason took Bekah to the park and surprised her with her promise ring. It is beautiful. As a matter of fact, it looks almost exactly like my wedding band. We chose that particular ring because we wanted her to be reminded of our committment to each other, to her, and to God every time she looks at it.

Then on Saturday afternoon, we went to see The Phantom of the Opera at the Fox. She loved it! Grandma also surprised us with tickes to Les Miserables in a few weeks, which will also be at the Fox. Then it was off for a weekend get-a-way.

On Sunday morning, Bekah opened her birthday gifts, which of course included the long desired JAZZ SHOES! She was very, very, excited! Then we were off for a day of fun and craziness at Silver Dollar City!

The picture above is of the girls having fun in a Silver Dollar City coffin...

This picture is of Jen and me on the Powder Keg Roller Coaster. HELLO? WHAT WAS I THINKING? Just because the doctor said it was okay to ride the coasters again, that didn't mean that I had to do it. I guess I am crazy after all!

When we made it back to the hotel, we surprised Bekah with another cake, and everyone in the lobby sang Happy Birthday to her! She was so surprised! Then we shared cake with several friends in the hotel, and went to bed!

On Monday, we took the girls to see THE PROMISE and it was just as good as it was the first time that I saw it. EVERYONE SHOULD SEE THIS SHOW!

We came home this afternoon, and everyone is beat! We are so glad that Bekah had a great birthday. WE LOVE YOU BEKAH!

Theatre Surprise!

Tonight was one of the best nights of my life! This evening, we showed up at Bekah's play practice and surprised her with a 13th birthday cake to share with the cast of "Way Back on Broadway." We hardly ever are able to surprise Bekah with anything! But tonight, we pulled it off!To say that Bekah was surprised when she walked into the room to see her family and friends standing there with a birthday cake and singing Happy Birthday at the top of their lungs would be a huge understatement. She was COMPLETELY surprised. We couldn't have pulled it off without Greg and Jim helping to keep the secret and getting the cast to cooperate.

Here is a cast picture! Jennifer and I hung around for quite a while and watched the rehearsal. I think it is going to be a great show!

Here is a picture of Bekah with the director of the show, Greg. Greg is a super nice guy who is extremely talented and passionate about theatre. He is a great director, dancer, singer and choreographer. I think one of his greatest talents is bringing out the best in others. I know he has helped Bekah love theatre even more than she already did... if that is possible!

Last, but not least... here is a great picture that was taken tonight after we ate cake! Jennifer was so excited to be part of Bekah's theatre surprise! They fight like sisters, but they sure do love each other!

It was a great evening, and Bekah was so excited to celebrate her birthday (which is really on Sunday) with her theatre friends. After rehearsal we all went to Dennie's together. Now it is almost 1:30 a.m. and it is time for bed! We have to get our rest... tomorrow we are headed to the FOX to see Phantom of the Opera!

Goodnight!