Tootsie

and

Tammy

Of course I would never invite a couple of rodents, much less rats, into our home, but Santa delivered them so what could I do?

I think they’re actually pretty cute.  They’re learning quickly to come to my call.  Just label me the ratmaster of the house.

So we enter 2010 with a new perspective on who is welcome or not in our home.  That’s what New Year is all about, isn’t it?  Out with the old ideas and in with the new.  I wonder what other unexpected delights the new year will bring?  Here’s to paying attention and seeking serendipity. 

Wishing you a blessed beginning to 2010.  Happy New Year!

A couple of weeks ago I snuggled on the couch with my daughter and watched A Charlie Brown Christmas, the wonderful 1965 classic.   

When I heard Charlie Brown utter these words:  “I think there must be something wrong with me, Linus.  Christmas is coming, but I’m not happy.  I don’t feel the way I’m supposed to feel. . . “

I thought to myself, “That’s exactly how I’ve been feeling lately.”  I wasn’t feeling the instant joy and happiness that supposedly arrives at 4 am or some crazy hour on Black Friday. 

It’s not that I didn’t know about the true meaning of Christmas.   Celebrating Christ’s birth is a big part of our tradition.  But the older I get, the excitement and joy of the Christmas extras dim a little.  Once upon a time, I was the seasonal cheer-leader in my family.  Lately, it takes me awhile to catch the spirit of the Christmas rush. 

But that’s okay.  I know it will come.  I just need a little adventing. 

Last year I realized an important thing about Advent, the season to prepare for Christmas.   It’s a process.  Advent is four weeks long for a reason.  We don’t have to have everything ready on Thanksgiving weekend.  The marketers try to spur us into action right after Halloween, but my brain doesn’t shift seasons that fast.  I need to play a little music, light some candles, put up the tree, and pull out my nativity scenes to get into the mood.   It helps even more to bask in my kids’ excitement, watch little ones sing Christmas carols, and snuggle on the couch with some hot tea, admiring the sparkly tree.  Sure enough, by mid-month, I’m singing the songs and scurrying around in joyful preparation.   

My friend Patty shared another piece that got me thinking.  We typically think of Advent as a time of waiting for Christ’s coming.  But of course, Christ has already come.  Christmas isn’t about presents and parties or even happy family time–it’s about God connecting with us right here on our level–Immanuel.  It happened over two thousand years ago, and it still applies today. 

So God is already here.  Perhaps advent–the waiting part–is God waiting for us.   We just need to get through our hustle and bustle rituals, then slow down, take a breather, and notice. 

Maybe that’s why the peace tends to finally come upon me in the quiet of a candlelight Christmas Eve service, after the work is done, and I give myself permission to notice God’s presence. 

I have a week to go.  He’s waiting.  For the rest of this advent, I will try to take notice. 

_________________________

Have you caught the spirit yet?  If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these two amazing projects:

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Image at top by Keegan Jones via Flickr

This weekend, I’m enjoying the luxury of being a guest in my husband’s childhood home.  It’s not often that I get to sleep in, enjoy great food and wine, and relax with my extended family.   Both G and I are so thankful that both sets of our parents are healthy, happy and fun to be around.  Even with all my whining lately, I know we are so richly blessed.

My friend Diane sent me this Thanksgiving message that I pass on to you today.  I send it to raise awareness of our own blessings, not to impose guilt or remorse.  I’m firm believer in “to whom much is given, much is expected.” So please, enjoy the day–relax, refresh, renew your soul–so you can bless another, in what ever way you can.  And if you need to receive this season, and we all do at one point or another, please – enjoy the bounty.

If you woke up this morning with more health than illness, you are more blessed than the million who won’t survive the week.

If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture or the pangs of starvation, you are ahead of 20 million people around the world.

If you attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest, torture, or death, you are more blessed than almost three billion people in the world.

If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof over your head and a place to sleep, you are richer than 75% of this world.

If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish someplace, you are among the top 8% of the world’s wealthy.

If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful, you are blessed because the majority can, but most do not.

If you can hold someone’s hand, hug them or even touch them on the shoulder, you are blessed because you can offer a healing touch.

If you have read this message, you are more blessed than over two billion people in the world that cannot read anything at all.

We are richly blessed.  May we recognize these gifts and share them wisely.

*Yes, this is a re-post from last Thanksgiving, but it seems even more relevant to me today.  Hope you enjoy it.

photo credit: basykes

1. that real men are strong, caring and sensitive too
2. that one can never say “I love you” too often
3. that little girls’ kisses come in two flavors:  strawberry shortcake or peaches and cream
4. that romance is dancing on your daddy’s boots
5. that life is a gamble, so it’s best to enjoy the good times
6. that a good marriage involves more giving than taking
7. that every couple should rub each others’ feet once in awhile
8. that a drive in the country can heal many hurts
9. that thunderstorms should be witnessed from the front porch
10. that dogs go along with you to work
11. that every girl should know how to use tools and change a tire
12. that relationships matter more than business (or rather, they are business)
13. that investments aren’t all about money
14. that ketchup improves just about anything
15. that you never pass through a town without looking up a cousin
16. to give a friendly wave whether you know them or not
17. to always factor in a couple extra hours for visiting
18. that every major milestone deserves a great party
19. that good sons honor and care for their parents
20. to stand up for your rights, even if you don’t know what will happen next
21. that humor and optimism will get you through the tough times

Just a few lessons from my wise and wonderful Dad. 

With much, much love,

your (not so) little girl

At the crack of dawn on Sunday, the women came to the tomb carrying the burial spices they had prepared.  They found the entrance stone rolled back from the tomb, so they wallked in.  But once inside, they couldn’t find the body of the Master Jesus.

They were puzzled, wondering what to make of this.  Then, out of nowhere it seemed, two men, light cascading over them, stood there.  The women were awestruck and bowed down in worship.  The men said, “Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery?  He is not here, but raised up.  Remember how he told you when you were still back in Galilee that he had to be handed over to sinners, be killed on a cross, and in three days rise up?”  Then they remembered Jesus’ words.

–Luke 24:1-8, from Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase The Message:  The Bible in Contemporary Language

May we all remember to look for the Living One not in the darkness, but where the Light shines.

Happy Easter, one and all.  He is risen indeed. 

photo credit: dtcchc

*****(1)*****

Today Christians commemorate Good Friday in preparation for Easter Sunday.  I must admit, I’ve always wrestled with the concept of calling the day of Jesus’ crucifixion “good”.  Yes, the heart of Christianity rests on the death and resurrection of Christ, so I know the ultimate sacrifice on this day is inherently “good”.  I’ve studied many theological explanations of what happened on that cross.  Still, even though I have faith, it’s still hard for my wee little brain to grasp or explain. 

Tony Jones, however, explains it in a way that resonates with me.   It generated quite a debate in his comments (I’m drawn to those controversial theologians, I guess).  If you’re curious, check out Tony’s Good Friday post over here .

*****(2)*****

I have hope–dare I say it?–that spring is on its way in Michigan.  We had a snow day last Monday, but it melted away quickly and life is just beginning to peek its way through the crud.  It’s a long wait in these parts, but it inspires a huge celebration of spring–people pour out onto the sidewalks, spirits lifted, and really appreciate the sun on their faces. 

Kinda like Easter after Good Friday.

*****(3)*****

As spring arrives, we’re more likely to put on a happy face, so I thought I’d sneak in a picture of my son singing “Put on a Happy Face” at the Tappan Middle School production of Bye Bye Birdie last weekend (thanks for the photos, Lichee!):

He’s on the far left peeking under the brim of his too-big hat.  We’re still basking in the glow of this amazing community production showcasing the talents of just 180 middle schoolers. 

*****(4)*****

Did I mention that Minnie Driver, who happens to be filming a movie in our town, visited the Bye Bye Birdie cast and offered insights on starting her acting career in middle school?   Is it okay that I felt somewhat jealous, especially when my son had no idea who she is?

*****(5)*****

Speaking of community productions, I’ve been thinking about how people build community:  why is there so much community support and participation in some circles, and less in others?  What makes it “click”?  I welcome any insights.  More to come on that topic.

*****(6)*****

Last night, I noticed my middle son’s shoulders were a little broader, his voice a little stronger, and his demeanor a little. . . tween-er?    And oh yes, the type of underwear I buy is suddenly very important.  It sort of snuck up on me, but I think boy #2 is growing up too.    Thank goodness I still have my little girl.  But she wants to be a teenager so badly that she’s not acting so little any more either. 

You know what, though?  It’s a really fun ride.

*****(7)*****

Speaking of growing up, we’re approaching the weeks when TWO of my kids have “health” courses (code for sex ed) coming up at the same time.  In the heat of spring.  That’s gonna be. . . a fun ride.

On that note, I wish you all the blessings of spring, with all the beautiful celebrations and traditions, including Passover and Easter this week.

sunset from our lanai. seriously.

Oh, what a wonderful respite. 

We had a lovely vacation on the Big Island of Hawai’i last week.  My husband’s parents found a house on the shore of Kealakekua Bay on the Kona coast, far from any resorts, tourists or crowds.  Our house sat right on top of a huge lava flow overlooking a marine life sanctuary.  We explored all kinds of lava with my geologist father-in-law, snorkeled right near our home, and toured the island’s rain forests, beaches, and volcanoes.  I’ve got so much to share, but for now, a few shots of our week:

Our little brown house on the lava

Lava Kitty, who came with the house

conquering the a'a

snorkeling with sea turtles

walking in a volcano crater--see it steaming?

studying geology with Papa J

Some additions to my list of gifts:

1. The miracle of ongoing, eternal creation
2. The mystery of ocean life
3. Family time without internet distractions
4. Booking this vacation before the economy crashed
5. Active, engaged grandparents on both sides
6. Ocean waves lulling us to sleep
7. Serendipity discoveries in unexpected places
8. The hope of flowers sprouting out of dry lava
9. People who still trust:  the guys who let us take their kayaks when we didn’t have cash with us
10. Pina coladas on the lanai

May the beauty of special places sustain us through “ordinary” times. 

I think I learned about the civil rights movement in junior high, and I remember giving a corny “I have a dream” speech for student council.  MLK Junior day was first observed when I was in high school, and it wasn’t officially observed by all 50 states until the year 2000, with some controversy.

Thankfully, my children’s experience is far different.  They attend remarkably diverse public schools where MLK Jr. is lauded as one of America’s greatest heroes.  They learn his story in kindergarten and celebrate his message of peaceful justice and equality every year.  They learn and play with children from an amazing variety of races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic status.   They bump heads and learn to work things out as children, without labels.   It’s not perfect harmony, but it’s a darn good start.  

Occasionally I hear grumblings from parents about the “heavy emphasis” on Dr. King and diversity, which baffles me.  I chose to send my kids to this public school, warts and all.  I believe that if my children develop fond childhood friendships between different cultures, it will be nearly impossible to fear (or hate) that group as a whole, and it may be more possible to connect and make peace with different cultures later in life.   Teaching young childen this message is one of the most important steps toward healing our world.  As adults, we all carry some prejudices and stereotypes to overcome.  Our best hope rests on each next generation. 

Dr. King’s words, exerpted from his August 28, 1963 speech at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, still resonate loud and clear:

Visit this site to read the full text or watch the 17-minute video.  It’s worth it! 

“. . .And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of “interposition” and “nullification” — one day right there in Alabama little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, and every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight; “and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together.”

This is our hope, and this is the faith that I go back to the South with.

With this faith, we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith, we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith, we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

And this will be the day — this will be the day when all of God’s children will be able to sing with new meaning:

My country ’tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing.

Land where my fathers died, land of the Pilgrim’s pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring!

And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true.”

 

Forty-five years later, we’ve come a long way, but we still have far to go to respect all children as equals. 

May we keep on keepin’ on toward that dream. 

photo credit: DrewMyers

Yesterday our pastor discussed the mysterious sliding rocks of Racetrack Playa in Death Valley, California.  Apparently these huge, heavy boulders move hundreds of feet without explanation.  The tracks show clear evidence of movement, but science can’t precisely explain how or why it happens.  Is it wind, ice, earth, animals, or some combination?  Theories abound, but the mystery still prevails. 

Using this illustration, Doug prodded us to contemplate the culmination of 2008.  We may feel pretty much the same day to day, but over the course of a year, we’ve probably moved from one place to another.  Was it by our own efforts, circumstance, the economy, politics, or some greater plan?  We can’t say for sure, but the fact remains, we’ve probably been moved, changed, or transformed in some way. 

Have you been moved this year?

I’ve been moved by many things–to name just a few: 

• the tranformational growth of my children:  of my eldest to a teenager, of my middle one to a pre-teen, and of my littlest to a lanky girl no longer so little
• the depth of this internet community of openness with privacy, transparency with mystery, and support without obligation 
• the selfless support of my family, church and community

Even if I don’t feel like I’ve changed so much, I’ve surely been moved.  And when we move, we leave tracks.

What tracks have you left behind?

I hope and pray that I’ve left some tracks of loving care.  I’m quite sure I’ve skidded a few times, and when I’ve scorched the earth, I hope I’ve made good repairs. 

And finally,

What will move you in 2009?

We may not have complete control, but we do have some influence.  Will we drift with the winds of the times?  Or will we set our sights in a new, hopeful direction? 

I believe our goals, our energy, our prayers and affirmations can influence the direction of our tracks.  Most of all, I hope and pray my path is aligned with the One who directs the winds, that I’m able to clearly discern it, and that I’m brave enough to move forward. 

What about you? 

May your boulders be light and your path be clear in 2009.

Thanks to Doug Paterson for inspiration and to Seamonkey78704 for the photo.

our tree

The days after Christmas are actually my favorites.

The packages are opened, the food is served, the kids are busy, and gift cards are waiting.   And yes, we have tape stuck on the carpet, tags and ribbons everywhere, stocking stuffers with no home, a humongous pile of garbage/recycling, and a slight sense of guilt for the abundance. Still, I feel like the real vacation begins today. Now I can enjoy the family time, play games, and relax together without the pressures of holiday hype and preparation. I could wax on wondering about how we’ve distorted Christmas with our high expectations, but for now I just want to enjoy the aftermath.

I’ve just recently learned that the “Twelve Days of Christmas” we’ve sung about for so long actually begin on December 25th.  Maybe you all knew that, but my wise ten-year-old son clued me in and then I noticed smarter bloggers with posts on the topic.  The traditional Christmas actually begins on December 25th and runs until Twelfth Night on January 5th, followed by Epiphany, the celebration of the arrival of the magi at the manger in Bethlehem.  Which, historians say, actually happened a couple of years after Jesus’ birth (this part I knew!).

This year, it seems especially fitting to me that the spiritual part can begin after the cultural part is done.   For my twelve-ish days of Christmas, I’m looking forward to a sabbath time of sorts with my family.  No partridges or maids-a-milking, though.  Now that the boxes are checked and the big stuff is done, I hope to reconnect, regroup, rewind, and recharge my spirit for the new year.  I’m hoping this will be easier than trying to manufacture the “best Christmas ever”, but of course there are five of us in the house, with all that that entails.  We’ll see how it goes, and of course, I’ll keep you posted.

Here’s wishing you the best aftermath ever.  Whatever your traditions, I hope you find the last week of 2008 peaceful and rejuvenating.