Over at RevGals, Singing Owl posted this up:
Lingering effects of a cold have me watching more television than usual. There appears to be a resurgence of the old daytime staple--the quiz show. Except they are on during prime time, and a great many of them offer the chance of winning one million dollars.
I think it started with Regis Philbin and "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" but now we have a half dozen or so.
My husband and I started musing (after watching "Deal or No Deal") about what we could do with a million dollars. I thought I'd just bring that discussion into the Friday Five this week. It's simple. What are five things you would want to do with a million dollar deposit in your bank account?
1. Pay off the mortgage.
2. Travel the world, bringing along friends and family
3. Taking a page from cathy's book, I'd give a tithe to the church, but like her, I'd want it to be allocated for something special.
4. Invest for kid's college, retirement, etc.
5. Donate to some of my favorite charities.
Bonus: If there's a little left over, obviously it will go for SHOES!
Showing posts with label friday five. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friday five. Show all posts
Friday, March 28, 2008
Friday, January 18, 2008
Friday Five: Read Any Good Books Lately?
The website promoting this piece of art says, "For the first time, the worlds most influential religious texts are brought together and presented on the same level, their coexistence acknowledged and celebrated”. The shelf is made of reclaimed wood that contains seven religious books. The designers have put them – literally – on the same level.Well, pish posh! I think that some books ARE better than others! How about you?
- What book have you read in the last six months that has really stayed with you? Why? Like Cathy, I was also struck by Barbara Kingsolver's Animal, Vegetable, Miracle. Sure, some parts were better than others, but it made me aware that I could easily make better food choices for myself and my family that could affect the whole earth in a positive way.
- What is one of your favorite childhood books? I loved the Little Miss and Mister books by Roger Hargreaves. They were so funny and delightful. Now I love sharing them with my little one.
- Do you have a favorite book of the Bible? Do tell! I love Jonah. It's such a great story. It's got action, adventure, drama, and a happy ending. What more could you want!
- What is one book you could read again and again? Ok, ok, I'm picking two. I can't decide. I love both Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird, and Daphne DuMaurier's Frenchman's Creek. (Really about anything by DuMaurier is good. Rebecca, Jamaica Inn, My Cousin Rachel...)
- Is there a book you would suggest for Lenten reading? What is it and why? I enjoy Ann Weems poetry and every Lent I pick up Kneeling in Jerusalem again. It puts me in the contemplative and repentant spirit that I hope to maintain for the season, yet brings a bright spot to it as well.
And because we all love bonus questions, if you were going to publish a book what would it be? Who would you want to write the jacket cover blurb expounding on your talent? I honestly have no idea. A book of sermons, a book on parenting, oh, I know! A book of knitting patterns I've created. Except that I haven't created any yet... maybe someday. And I'd have P help me design them... he wants to have knitting patterns for outdoorsmen like hiking socks and extra warm gloves. I'd want knitting goddesses to extol my knitting genius, like Amy Singer and Stephanie Pearl McPhee.
Friday, November 02, 2007
Friday Five: Interviews
Mother Laura over at RGBP was noticing that lots of the Rev Gals are interviewing these days. (I just gone done with some myself!) So she posts the following Friday Five:
1. What was the most memorable interview you ever had?
Probably the one that should never have taken place. I got a phone call from a church that wanted to do a phone interview, but that was the first I'd ever heard of this place, so I wanted a chance to look at their info and location. But I said a tentative yes, explaining that I needed a chance to look over their CIF (church information form, for you non-Presbys) and then after I'd read it, discovered this was not a place I felt called to. So after trying to call the number he gave me about 5 or 6 times in one night and several times over the next few days, (get this, no machine, no voicemail!) I decided to use the email from their information form. Apparently it was there for show because in no one checked it in a week's time and they still called me for the interview. I was not ready, to say the least. I went ahead with it since the whole committee had gathered for that purpose and I wasn't sure how appropriate it was for me to say, "Hey! I tried to call you all week, emailed you, etc. Don't you people check your communications?!" I must have done ok, b/c at the end of the interview they asked me to send sermon tapes. (Needless to say, what they got instead was a "no, thank you" letter.)
2. Have you ever been the interviewer rather than the interviewee? If so, are you a tiger, a creampuff, or somewhere in between?
I've never been an official interviewer for someone seeking a position, but I did ask plenty of questions when I was visiting the church that finally called me. So I suppose that was a sort of interview. That being the case, I'd say more like a tiger in creampuff clothing. No one would look at me and think 'intimidating,' but I know I asked some pretty good, well-aimed questions.
3. Do phone interviews make you more or less nervous than in-person ones?
More. I really like to be able to read cues like facial expressions and reactions and such when I'm talking to people.
4. What was the best advice you ever got to prepare for an interview? How about the worst?
It helped me to write down the answers to the most common questions, like "what are your strengths and weaknesses," etc. By the way, if you're ever on a committee, get more creative than that and "where do you see yourself in five to ten years." What kind of question is that to ask a pastor?!
Sorry, flashback.
Anyway, the other best advice was to have a drink next to me while I was on the phone. Yeah, a grown-up kind. They can't see it and I was way more relaxed. Personally, I prefer and gin & tonic with lots of lime.
5. Do you have any pre-interview rituals that give you confidence?
Nah, just gotta have daddy keep the kid out of the room so I can hear what they're asking if I'm going to be on the phone. Otherwise, for in person, I try to make myself eat something even if I'm too nervous to feel like eating, just so I don't feel ill later.
1. What was the most memorable interview you ever had?
Probably the one that should never have taken place. I got a phone call from a church that wanted to do a phone interview, but that was the first I'd ever heard of this place, so I wanted a chance to look at their info and location. But I said a tentative yes, explaining that I needed a chance to look over their CIF (church information form, for you non-Presbys) and then after I'd read it, discovered this was not a place I felt called to. So after trying to call the number he gave me about 5 or 6 times in one night and several times over the next few days, (get this, no machine, no voicemail!) I decided to use the email from their information form. Apparently it was there for show because in no one checked it in a week's time and they still called me for the interview. I was not ready, to say the least. I went ahead with it since the whole committee had gathered for that purpose and I wasn't sure how appropriate it was for me to say, "Hey! I tried to call you all week, emailed you, etc. Don't you people check your communications?!" I must have done ok, b/c at the end of the interview they asked me to send sermon tapes. (Needless to say, what they got instead was a "no, thank you" letter.)
2. Have you ever been the interviewer rather than the interviewee? If so, are you a tiger, a creampuff, or somewhere in between?
I've never been an official interviewer for someone seeking a position, but I did ask plenty of questions when I was visiting the church that finally called me. So I suppose that was a sort of interview. That being the case, I'd say more like a tiger in creampuff clothing. No one would look at me and think 'intimidating,' but I know I asked some pretty good, well-aimed questions.
3. Do phone interviews make you more or less nervous than in-person ones?
More. I really like to be able to read cues like facial expressions and reactions and such when I'm talking to people.
4. What was the best advice you ever got to prepare for an interview? How about the worst?
It helped me to write down the answers to the most common questions, like "what are your strengths and weaknesses," etc. By the way, if you're ever on a committee, get more creative than that and "where do you see yourself in five to ten years." What kind of question is that to ask a pastor?!
Sorry, flashback.
Anyway, the other best advice was to have a drink next to me while I was on the phone. Yeah, a grown-up kind. They can't see it and I was way more relaxed. Personally, I prefer and gin & tonic with lots of lime.
5. Do you have any pre-interview rituals that give you confidence?
Nah, just gotta have daddy keep the kid out of the room so I can hear what they're asking if I'm going to be on the phone. Otherwise, for in person, I try to make myself eat something even if I'm too nervous to feel like eating, just so I don't feel ill later.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Friday Five (actually six): Apples and Pumpkins
From Singing Owl at RGBP: All Hallows Eve (Halloween) is near. As a child, Halloween was one of my favorite holidays. We didn’t yet worry about razor blades in apples or popcorn balls or some of the other concerns people have with Halloween these days. Halloween was a chance to be mildly scared, and better yet, to dress up and pretend to be something we really weren’t. Let’s talk about that a bit, but then let’s add in some food ideas for this year. Where I live the leaves are falling, the temperature is chilly and pumpkins are for sale everywhere, along with many kids of apples. What's more, the "Holiday Season" will soon be upon us. ACK! I could use a new idea for dessert. So, here we go…
1. How did you celebrate this time of year when you were a child?
We did dress up and trick-or-treat. I do remember one year having a sleep over party just for the fun on it and we made a spider web cake and had a spider web where you attach string to a prize and then wind it all over the room around the furniture, etc. and there's a pencil at the other end to wind the string around as the kids follow it around to their prize. This is great when there are about 10-12 kids at the party!
2. Do you and/or your family “celebrate” Halloween? Why or why not? And if you do, has it changed from what you used to do?
Well, we'll take L trick-or-treating, maybe go to the church's vespers/organ recital/dress up party this year. I put up the one string of bat lights I have. That's about what we did when I was a kid. We just didn't make a big deal. Oh, we did (and do) carve pumpkins. This seems like it was more for the sake of having some family time though, than really celebrating the holiday.
3. Candy apples: Do you prefer red cinnamon or caramel covered? Or something else?
Absolutly caramel! (I love caramel anything.) I admit, I even eat those caramel apple suckers, but I lick off the caramel and toss the nasty green apple part. Even better, dip the caramel apple in chocolate.
4. Pumpkins: Do you make Jack O’ Lanterns? Any ideas of what else to do with them?
We do like to carve pumpkins at our house-love those stencil kits! I'm with reverendmother that we love to roast the seeds. What else to do with them? Compost them, of course! (We've also been known to ignore them long enough that they cave in on themselves and look like little old people with no dentures in.)
5. Do you decorate your home for fall or Halloween? If so, what do you do? Bonus points for pictures.
We stick to the fall stuff mostly. As above, we'll put up our bat lights, but I'm not one to decorate for a one day holiday. At least at Thanksgiving you can get the whole weekend out of, but since you can also use most of the fall decor for it too, it lasts most of the season.
I really wish I had some pictures of the decorations of some of the neighbors in the area. They really get into halloween. It's a little disturbing really. Maybe I'll try to get some photos this weekend and post them later.
6. Do you like pretending to be something different? Does a costume bring our an alternate personality?
Costumes are fun, but I'm not really into the alternate personality. I do like to find something I can use a cheesy accent with though.
Bonus: Share your favorite recipe for an autumn food, particularly apple or pumpkin ones.
This in one of our favorites, it's a little more involved than the one in the link at the bottom, but the spices and caramelization are sooooo good!
Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Seeds (from MSLiving-with my own commentary)
Ingredients:
1 medium pumpkin
5 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of cayenne pepper, to taste
1 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil (I usually use canola or even olive oil-though recently I'm into grapeseed oil)
Directions
Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (or spray with cooking spray). Cut pumpkin open from the bottom (we do this from the top since we roast the seeds from the pumpkin we're carving for a jack-o-lantern), removing seeds. Separate flesh from seeds (I rinse them in a colander to get all the slime off). Pumpkin should yield about 1 cup seeds (it doesn't matter except you might need a little more spices if you have much more than that). Spread seeds on parchment in an even layer. Bake until dry (the dry part is important), stirring occasionally, about 1 hour. Let cool. (We do this while we're carving the pumkin so the wait doesn't seem so long.)
In a medium bowl combine 3 tablespoons sugar, salt, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne. Heat peanut oil (or whatever you have) in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add pumpkin seeds and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar. Cook until sugar melts and pumpkin seeds begin to caramelize, about 45 to 60 seconds. Transfer to bowl with spices, and stir well to coat. Let cool. These may be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
This is a much simpler, but equally tasty recipe if you want to try it. Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon and Salt.
Here are a couple other ideas.
Pumpkin pudding (yeah, it's even WW friendly)
Make a box of sugar-free, fat-free Jell-O pudding (I love the vanilla or cheesecake flavors) according to the box. Add half a can of real pumpkin (not pie filling), add cinnamon, cloves, allspice, according to taste, add half a container of cool-whip lite. Way good in a parfait with gingerbread.
I also make a great pumpkin-cream cheese pie. It's a great twist on the classic. Don't have the recipe on hand, but if anyone's interested, I can always post it later.
1. How did you celebrate this time of year when you were a child?
We did dress up and trick-or-treat. I do remember one year having a sleep over party just for the fun on it and we made a spider web cake and had a spider web where you attach string to a prize and then wind it all over the room around the furniture, etc. and there's a pencil at the other end to wind the string around as the kids follow it around to their prize. This is great when there are about 10-12 kids at the party!
2. Do you and/or your family “celebrate” Halloween? Why or why not? And if you do, has it changed from what you used to do?
Well, we'll take L trick-or-treating, maybe go to the church's vespers/organ recital/dress up party this year. I put up the one string of bat lights I have. That's about what we did when I was a kid. We just didn't make a big deal. Oh, we did (and do) carve pumpkins. This seems like it was more for the sake of having some family time though, than really celebrating the holiday.
3. Candy apples: Do you prefer red cinnamon or caramel covered? Or something else?
Absolutly caramel! (I love caramel anything.) I admit, I even eat those caramel apple suckers, but I lick off the caramel and toss the nasty green apple part. Even better, dip the caramel apple in chocolate.
4. Pumpkins: Do you make Jack O’ Lanterns? Any ideas of what else to do with them?
We do like to carve pumpkins at our house-love those stencil kits! I'm with reverendmother that we love to roast the seeds. What else to do with them? Compost them, of course! (We've also been known to ignore them long enough that they cave in on themselves and look like little old people with no dentures in.)
5. Do you decorate your home for fall or Halloween? If so, what do you do? Bonus points for pictures.
We stick to the fall stuff mostly. As above, we'll put up our bat lights, but I'm not one to decorate for a one day holiday. At least at Thanksgiving you can get the whole weekend out of, but since you can also use most of the fall decor for it too, it lasts most of the season.
I really wish I had some pictures of the decorations of some of the neighbors in the area. They really get into halloween. It's a little disturbing really. Maybe I'll try to get some photos this weekend and post them later.
6. Do you like pretending to be something different? Does a costume bring our an alternate personality?
Costumes are fun, but I'm not really into the alternate personality. I do like to find something I can use a cheesy accent with though.
Bonus: Share your favorite recipe for an autumn food, particularly apple or pumpkin ones.
This in one of our favorites, it's a little more involved than the one in the link at the bottom, but the spices and caramelization are sooooo good!
Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Seeds (from MSLiving-with my own commentary)
Ingredients:
1 medium pumpkin
5 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of cayenne pepper, to taste
1 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil (I usually use canola or even olive oil-though recently I'm into grapeseed oil)
Directions
Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (or spray with cooking spray). Cut pumpkin open from the bottom (we do this from the top since we roast the seeds from the pumpkin we're carving for a jack-o-lantern), removing seeds. Separate flesh from seeds (I rinse them in a colander to get all the slime off). Pumpkin should yield about 1 cup seeds (it doesn't matter except you might need a little more spices if you have much more than that). Spread seeds on parchment in an even layer. Bake until dry (the dry part is important), stirring occasionally, about 1 hour. Let cool. (We do this while we're carving the pumkin so the wait doesn't seem so long.)
In a medium bowl combine 3 tablespoons sugar, salt, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne. Heat peanut oil (or whatever you have) in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add pumpkin seeds and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar. Cook until sugar melts and pumpkin seeds begin to caramelize, about 45 to 60 seconds. Transfer to bowl with spices, and stir well to coat. Let cool. These may be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
This is a much simpler, but equally tasty recipe if you want to try it. Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon and Salt.
Here are a couple other ideas.
Pumpkin pudding (yeah, it's even WW friendly)
Make a box of sugar-free, fat-free Jell-O pudding (I love the vanilla or cheesecake flavors) according to the box. Add half a can of real pumpkin (not pie filling), add cinnamon, cloves, allspice, according to taste, add half a container of cool-whip lite. Way good in a parfait with gingerbread.
I also make a great pumpkin-cream cheese pie. It's a great twist on the classic. Don't have the recipe on hand, but if anyone's interested, I can always post it later.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Friday Five: The B-I-B-L-E
Posted at RevGalBlogPals by Mother Laura who says:
I have been working on an expansive language version of the Psalms and the Liturgy of the Hours/Divine Office/Breviary. (For you non-liturgical gals and pals, that's a set of prayers for morning, noon, evening, etc., mostly consisting of Psalms and other biblical texts). So I have been thinking a lot about the Bible recently, and how we encounter it as God's Word--or don't--in our lives, prayer, and ministry. (Great minds think somewhat alike this week, as yesterday's Ask The Matriarch post dealt with ways to help as many people in a community as possible engage with a scriptural text in preparation for Sunday worship). So, in that spirit, I offer my first Friday Five. I'm looking forward to hearing everyone's experience and reflection on these B-I-B-L-E questions:
1. What is your earliest memory of encountering a biblical text?
My memory isn't always the best, but for some reason Noah's ark keeps coming into my head. I know I was a total animal lover as a kid, so this would really have appealed.
2. What is your favorite biblical translation, and why? (You might have a few for different purposes).
I like the NRSV for it's dedication to accuracy and even trying to use more inclusive language. I also like the New Jerusalem, it tends to have a more lyrical/poetic quality in some places. It gives a different perspective without being too archaic.
3. What is your favorite book of the Bible? Your favorite verse/passage?
Now see, my CPM tried to ask me this too. They seem to think I ought to have a favorite, or if not, I must not read the Bible enough. (issues here?!) Well, I'm here to declare it! I don't have a favorite anything., not book, not chapter, not verse. I love different books and verses at different times, for different reasons. It depends on what I'm dealing with, what mood I'm in, what the situation calls for. That being said, I do like Paul's writings and Isaiah.
4. Which book of the Bible do you consider, in Luther's famous words about James, to be "an epistle of straw?" Which verse(s) make you want to scream?
I'm not a big fan of Timothy and a few of the other not-really-written-by-Paul letters, the patriarchal language is infuriating to me.
5. Inclusive language in biblical translation and liturgical proclamation: for, against, or neutral?
Absolutely for. Somehow we've forgotten (intentionally?) that we're all, male and female, Jew and Gentile, slave and free, made in the image of God. I don't think, though, that it should swing so heavily back the other direction that God becomes almost exclusively female.
Bonus: Back to the Psalms--which one best speaks the prayer of your heart?
I really like Psalm 121. It's a good reminder that God indeed will care for us and keep us safe.
I have been working on an expansive language version of the Psalms and the Liturgy of the Hours/Divine Office/Breviary. (For you non-liturgical gals and pals, that's a set of prayers for morning, noon, evening, etc., mostly consisting of Psalms and other biblical texts). So I have been thinking a lot about the Bible recently, and how we encounter it as God's Word--or don't--in our lives, prayer, and ministry. (Great minds think somewhat alike this week, as yesterday's Ask The Matriarch post dealt with ways to help as many people in a community as possible engage with a scriptural text in preparation for Sunday worship). So, in that spirit, I offer my first Friday Five. I'm looking forward to hearing everyone's experience and reflection on these B-I-B-L-E questions:
1. What is your earliest memory of encountering a biblical text?
My memory isn't always the best, but for some reason Noah's ark keeps coming into my head. I know I was a total animal lover as a kid, so this would really have appealed.
2. What is your favorite biblical translation, and why? (You might have a few for different purposes).
I like the NRSV for it's dedication to accuracy and even trying to use more inclusive language. I also like the New Jerusalem, it tends to have a more lyrical/poetic quality in some places. It gives a different perspective without being too archaic.
3. What is your favorite book of the Bible? Your favorite verse/passage?
Now see, my CPM tried to ask me this too. They seem to think I ought to have a favorite, or if not, I must not read the Bible enough. (issues here?!) Well, I'm here to declare it! I don't have a favorite anything., not book, not chapter, not verse. I love different books and verses at different times, for different reasons. It depends on what I'm dealing with, what mood I'm in, what the situation calls for. That being said, I do like Paul's writings and Isaiah.
4. Which book of the Bible do you consider, in Luther's famous words about James, to be "an epistle of straw?" Which verse(s) make you want to scream?
I'm not a big fan of Timothy and a few of the other not-really-written-by-Paul letters, the patriarchal language is infuriating to me.
5. Inclusive language in biblical translation and liturgical proclamation: for, against, or neutral?
Absolutely for. Somehow we've forgotten (intentionally?) that we're all, male and female, Jew and Gentile, slave and free, made in the image of God. I don't think, though, that it should swing so heavily back the other direction that God becomes almost exclusively female.
Bonus: Back to the Psalms--which one best speaks the prayer of your heart?
I really like Psalm 121. It's a good reminder that God indeed will care for us and keep us safe.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Frida Five: Meetings, Meetings
Posted over at RGBP by reverendmother.
In honor of a couple of marathon meetings I attended this week:
1. What's your view of meetings? Choose one or more, or make up your own:
a) When they're good, they're good. I love the feeling of people working well together on a common goal.
b) I don't seek them out, but I recognize them as a necessary part of life.
c) The only good meeting is a canceled meeting.
Hmm, a little of each, I think. Most meetings (especially church meetings) are useless pushing of agendas and personality conflicts in action (see b). But if you get the right combo of people, great ideas and inspiration can abound (see a). On the other hand, there's almost always something else I'd rather be doing than sitting on my butt in an uncomfy chair for hours at a time (see c).
2. Do you like some amount of community building or conversation, or are you all business?
I think there's always room for a little fellowship, it helps people feel more comfortable and perhaps puts them in a better frame of mind for getting things done "decently and in order." As long as it's got a time limit, of course!
3. How do you feel about leading meetings? Share any particular strengths or weaknesses you have in this area.
Personally, I'd much rather lead a meeting than just sit and let things get off topic and drag on. While no one would ever call me a type-A, I can't stand it when moderators let people go on and on, repeating their stale argument, or straying from the agenda. Meetings are about business and getting it done.
4. Have you ever participated in a virtual meeting? (conference call, IM, chat, etc.) What do you think of this format?
Sure, I've done a number of conference calls. I certainly appreciate them. It's kept me from having to travel from deep south to midwest any number of times for CPM meetings. I've done a number of phone interviews that way lately too. While I usually like to be able to see the people I'm speaking with, it's a great way to talk to people far away. Even though you can't see their faces, it's still better than email to guage emotion and reaction.
5. Share a story of a memorable meeting you attended.
Ah, well, the CPM is always a good place to start. I remember one of my earliest meetings with them. I'd shown up like a good little seminary student with all my paperwork in order, my Bible in hand. I had this particular Bible marked with Post-it flags for my favorite and most used verses. Probably about two dozen or more sticking out the top of my Bible. At some point in the meeting, the committee asks me what my favorite Bible verse is. Well, I say, I don't have a single favorite. I like different ones for different reasons or situations. (I flip the tops of the flags pointedly here.) I was trying to be honest, because I don't have just one verse that is a favorite. There are way too many good ones to pick a single favorite. My mistake.
Anyway, apparently they conclude that this means I don't read the Bible enough (yeah, a seminary student who doesn't read the Bible!) and I get a lecture and a mandate to read this awful year with the Bible book that's done with a terrible translation complete with sexist language. Supposedly, my liason would check in and work with me on this. That never happened. And I never made it through Genesis. I also learned it was better to stick to the status quo than be honest with that group of folks. Sad lesson, good experience, I think.
In honor of a couple of marathon meetings I attended this week:
1. What's your view of meetings? Choose one or more, or make up your own:
a) When they're good, they're good. I love the feeling of people working well together on a common goal.
b) I don't seek them out, but I recognize them as a necessary part of life.
c) The only good meeting is a canceled meeting.
Hmm, a little of each, I think. Most meetings (especially church meetings) are useless pushing of agendas and personality conflicts in action (see b). But if you get the right combo of people, great ideas and inspiration can abound (see a). On the other hand, there's almost always something else I'd rather be doing than sitting on my butt in an uncomfy chair for hours at a time (see c).
2. Do you like some amount of community building or conversation, or are you all business?
I think there's always room for a little fellowship, it helps people feel more comfortable and perhaps puts them in a better frame of mind for getting things done "decently and in order." As long as it's got a time limit, of course!
3. How do you feel about leading meetings? Share any particular strengths or weaknesses you have in this area.
Personally, I'd much rather lead a meeting than just sit and let things get off topic and drag on. While no one would ever call me a type-A, I can't stand it when moderators let people go on and on, repeating their stale argument, or straying from the agenda. Meetings are about business and getting it done.
4. Have you ever participated in a virtual meeting? (conference call, IM, chat, etc.) What do you think of this format?
Sure, I've done a number of conference calls. I certainly appreciate them. It's kept me from having to travel from deep south to midwest any number of times for CPM meetings. I've done a number of phone interviews that way lately too. While I usually like to be able to see the people I'm speaking with, it's a great way to talk to people far away. Even though you can't see their faces, it's still better than email to guage emotion and reaction.
5. Share a story of a memorable meeting you attended.
Ah, well, the CPM is always a good place to start. I remember one of my earliest meetings with them. I'd shown up like a good little seminary student with all my paperwork in order, my Bible in hand. I had this particular Bible marked with Post-it flags for my favorite and most used verses. Probably about two dozen or more sticking out the top of my Bible. At some point in the meeting, the committee asks me what my favorite Bible verse is. Well, I say, I don't have a single favorite. I like different ones for different reasons or situations. (I flip the tops of the flags pointedly here.) I was trying to be honest, because I don't have just one verse that is a favorite. There are way too many good ones to pick a single favorite. My mistake.
Anyway, apparently they conclude that this means I don't read the Bible enough (yeah, a seminary student who doesn't read the Bible!) and I get a lecture and a mandate to read this awful year with the Bible book that's done with a terrible translation complete with sexist language. Supposedly, my liason would check in and work with me on this. That never happened. And I never made it through Genesis. I also learned it was better to stick to the status quo than be honest with that group of folks. Sad lesson, good experience, I think.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Friday Five: Seasons Change...
It's been a while since I've had a chance to do a Friday Five, so here's my comeback.
It's Labor Day weekend here in the United States, also known as Summer's Last Hurrah. So let's say goodbye to summer and hello to the autumn. (People in other climes, feel free to adapt as needed.)
1. Share a highlight from this summer. (If you please, don't just say "our vacation to the Canadian Rockies." Give us a little detail or image. Help us live vicariously through you!)
Of course the trip to Canada that I wrote about several times. We saw loons! There's something about that lake that is so soothing. It's a very rocky lake (it's called Stoney Lake, actually) and has many islands and there are always sailboats out and so much wildlife. Our place is on the mainland in a small cove that is off a slightly larger cove. So we get mink (or maybe they're muskrats, I'm not sure) and beavers, ducks and loons, great blue herons hunting for frogs, turtles, and lots of those huge, creepy black squirrels. The sounds of the bullfrogs, the loons, the water, it's so lovely. There are pictures a few posts back if you're interested.
2. Are you glad to see this summer end? Why or why not?
Mostly yes. Yes, b/c it's been in the hundreds for most of August here. Yes, b/c it's been a hard summer of call searching. I'll miss the trips to the county water park with L. I won't miss mowing the lawn. I'll miss the hot colors of my wildflower garden that brought in all the hummingbirds and butterflies. I won't miss the way P smells when he gets home after working outside in the 100+ degree heat all day. (nose wrinkle here)
3. Name one or two things you're looking forward to this fall.
Mostly I'm looking forward to starting my call. It's finally happened, and though I know it will be at least a couple of months for all the formalities to go through, I hope to get in by Advent. Moving is a big thing too. I think it will be really good for our family, too. Lots of things to look forward to.
4. Do you have any special preparations or activities to mark the transition from one season to another? (Cleaning of house, putting away summer clothes, one last trip to the beach)
Not really. The transition here is so slow that I never put the summer clothes totally away until around Thankgiving. Otherwise, sometimes we take a trip up to the northern part of the state to see the leaves changes in the mountains.
5. I'll know that fall is really here when __________________________________.
...I don't break a sweat just walking to the mailbox. (Yeah, it's been that hot.)
It's Labor Day weekend here in the United States, also known as Summer's Last Hurrah. So let's say goodbye to summer and hello to the autumn. (People in other climes, feel free to adapt as needed.)
1. Share a highlight from this summer. (If you please, don't just say "our vacation to the Canadian Rockies." Give us a little detail or image. Help us live vicariously through you!)
Of course the trip to Canada that I wrote about several times. We saw loons! There's something about that lake that is so soothing. It's a very rocky lake (it's called Stoney Lake, actually) and has many islands and there are always sailboats out and so much wildlife. Our place is on the mainland in a small cove that is off a slightly larger cove. So we get mink (or maybe they're muskrats, I'm not sure) and beavers, ducks and loons, great blue herons hunting for frogs, turtles, and lots of those huge, creepy black squirrels. The sounds of the bullfrogs, the loons, the water, it's so lovely. There are pictures a few posts back if you're interested.
2. Are you glad to see this summer end? Why or why not?
Mostly yes. Yes, b/c it's been in the hundreds for most of August here. Yes, b/c it's been a hard summer of call searching. I'll miss the trips to the county water park with L. I won't miss mowing the lawn. I'll miss the hot colors of my wildflower garden that brought in all the hummingbirds and butterflies. I won't miss the way P smells when he gets home after working outside in the 100+ degree heat all day. (nose wrinkle here)
3. Name one or two things you're looking forward to this fall.
Mostly I'm looking forward to starting my call. It's finally happened, and though I know it will be at least a couple of months for all the formalities to go through, I hope to get in by Advent. Moving is a big thing too. I think it will be really good for our family, too. Lots of things to look forward to.
4. Do you have any special preparations or activities to mark the transition from one season to another? (Cleaning of house, putting away summer clothes, one last trip to the beach)
Not really. The transition here is so slow that I never put the summer clothes totally away until around Thankgiving. Otherwise, sometimes we take a trip up to the northern part of the state to see the leaves changes in the mountains.
5. I'll know that fall is really here when __________________________________.
...I don't break a sweat just walking to the mailbox. (Yeah, it's been that hot.)
Friday, June 29, 2007
Friday Five: Gifts and Talents
Posted at RevGalBlogPals by Sally
Our Circuit (Methodist) is having a "Gifts and talents day" tomorrow- we have a minister visiting from another circuit who has modified the Myers Briggs personality test and added a few things of his own to run a day where we get to look at ourselves in the light of giftings and of the whole church. The idea is to encourage everyone with the news that there is room for you in the ministry of the church- and perhaps to discover where that ministry might be.....
It should be an interesting day, and one where I hope people will leave feeling encouraged and challenged...
So with gifts and talents in mind here is todays Friday 5;
1. Personality tests; love them or hate them?
I think they're fun, as long as they don't get too bogged down. I don't take them particularly seriously though. I also think most of them are a little too easy to manipulate.
2. Would you describe yourself as practical, creative, intellectual or a mixture ?
Definitely a mixture. Very creative, certainly intellectual in the sense that I love learning. I could easily become a perpetual student. And a little bit practical-mostly because I'm the one who has to take care of the household: bills, child, animals, meals, shopping, etc. If I didn't have all that, I'd certainly be less so, wanting to take off and be impulsive, doing things like eating out all the time, buying lots of gadgets and shoes I don't need, being a lot more selfish.
3. It is said that everyone has their 15 minutes of fame; have you had yours yet? If so what was it? If not, dream away; what would you like it to be?
I'm not sure. I did get my face up on the big screens at a General Assembly way back when I was about 17. I did have a few strangers recognize me afterwards. But really, I'd like to publish some day. I'm not sure in what genre though. I always wanted to write and illustrate my own children's book. There are so few good children's religious books that aren't just retelling Bible stories. (If you are looking for some though, Jewish Rabbi Sandy Eisenberg Sasso has written several that are wonderful!)
4. If you were given a 2 year sabatical ( oh the dream of it) to create something, would it be music, literature, art.....something completely different...share your dream with us...
Oh! It would be art. I have just picked up my sketching and watercolors again. I just finished a pencil sketch of a photo of P and L taking a nap together. I would love to travel and sketch and paint all the places I go. I'd love to take some lessons to learn more and maybe pick up another medium-I'd love to learn to throw pottery!
5. Describe a talent you would like to develop, but that seems completely beyond you.
I would love to be a really great photographer. I take good pictures now, but I just don't have the "eye" for great photos. I also get really confused with all of the shutter speed and aperature settings and the little things that make for really great pictures. Not to metion, I don't have the $$$ to get a good camera and lenses right now. (I'd love one of those relatively new Nikon D40 DSLRs.)
Bonus question: Back to the church- what does every member ministry mean to you? Is it truly possible to encourage/ implement?
I totally think it's possible. I absolutely believe in "the priesthood of all believers." I think one of the biggest parts of my job as a minster is to facilitate congregation members in discovering and using their particular gifts and talents to better serve Christ and the world. When people learn where their talents lie and how to best put them to use, they often are infused with that passion that makes them actually want to serve.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Friday Five: Hot Town, Summer in the City...
...or town, or suburb, or hamlet, or burg, or unincorporated zone, or rural area of your choice---pretty much anywhere but the southern hemisphere, it's summer. (Australians and others, consider this an invitation to take a break from winter for a while.)
1. Favorite summer food(s) and beverage(s)
Mmmmm, sweet corn, strawberries and tomatoes, all fresh picked. Also freezer pops, you know, the ones in the skinny plastic tubes in all kinds of colors. Home-made ice cream. Sangria and a frozen drink that my granddad was famous for called a peach pousee (sp?) made with frozen peaches, frozen o.j. concentrate and vodka (I switch that for rum, personal preference).
2. Song that "says" summer to you. (Need not be about summer explicitly.)
For some reason, the Top Gun soundtrack comes to mind.
3. A childhood summer memory
When I was a kid, my mom wasn't working and we would go spend pretty much the entire summer at her parents' home in Dallas. We'd take swimming lessons in the morning at the Y and swim in their pool all afternoon. Poppy would take us to the local library. There were usually grown-up parties once or twice in the summer and we'd get to stay up late and "attend" thinking how grown-up we were.
I also remember picking wild blueberries up in Canada and my great-aunt Helen gamely making blueberry pancakes with the 1/2 c. we'd manage to find. And my great-uncle Joe fileting the tiny little sun perch we'd catch off the dock and Marm making bite-sized fish nuggets with them.
4. An adult summer memory
Playing with L in the sprinkler and her little porch pool. Also, during one of our (almost) annual trips to Canada, watching the Leonid metor shower from the boat during a blackout from a recent storm; the sky was amazing!!
5. Describe a wonderful summer day you'd like to have in the near future. (weather, location, activities)
We're taking our trip to Canada soon, and I'd really love to see the Northern lights. That would be such a treat! But as for a whole day, it'd would start with waking up early and visiting with mom since we're the only early risers, having someone else care for L and not having to change diapers. Canoeing with P, maybe boating over to the swimming hole at great aunt Helen's and catching frogs with L. There'd be great food, maybe burgers and sweet corn and tomatoes for dinner and for sure, butter tarts!
Optional: Does your place of worship do anything differently in the summer? (Fewer services, casual dress, etc.)
We used to bump the service back half an hour and cancel SS for the season. But a few years ago they kept the worship time a half hour earlier year round, so now some of the classes, especially the children's and teens', don't meet for the summer.
Friday, June 08, 2007
Friday Five: Getaway Island Edition
Posted by Cathy at RGBP:
We snitched a bit of time on a quiet island nearby this week. It was a last minute plan, escaping with a minimal amount of preparation. One must have essentials that make it a relaxing time. Perhaps you have had this opportunity to escape, or maybe it's only been a thought to get away. However, suppose you were told to pack some essentials for a trip to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Describe your location, in general or specific terms and....
Generally, it has to be next to water. My two favorite places I've vacationed were the Outer Banks, and the family 'cottage' in Canada (see previous posts). One is lake, one is ocean, so I'm not picky. Both have their different benefits. Quiet is a must. I love hearing the loons at the lake and the waves at the beach. Family and friends are a bonus. I don't much like being alone, even on vacation. What fun is fun if you can't share it? (That's just me.) But specifically, we are going to the 'cottage' in July so that is what I'll be referring to.
1) What book(s) will you bring?
Probably a couple of mysteries and, ok, maybe a 'trashy' romance (I'll be ordering an Amanda Quick from Paperback Swap soon). Oh, and word puzzle books! Especially since mom and sis will be there.
2) What music accompanies you?
Well, since we've got an IPod, lots. Favorites? Gaelic Storm and Matchobox 20 (for me), Indigo Girls and various classic rock (for P), Backyardigans (for L). We also have XM radio, so we'll listen to lots of other various stuff on the way. We have very wide and ecclectic tastes.
3) What essentials of everyday living must you take (as in the health and beauty aids aisle variety)?
The necessities are shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, razor, body wash (you know, hygene stuff). The rest (as in, could probably live without but why would I want to): Sunscreen, SPF 30 face moisturizer, bug spray, maybe a hair dryer, but that depends on how much room I have left in the suitcase. Make-up? Well, ok, probably my concealer, mascara and some blush, just in case we go out to dinner one night.
4) What technological gadgets if any, will you take with you or do you leave it all behind?
P has to have the IPod, especially in the car. I will leave the laptop, but I doubt P will be able to leave his behind. (He's just sure his office can't function without his input. Not good with work/family boundaries, is P.) We'll take the cell phones, but mostly just for on-the-road safety. XM radio for in the car.
I mostly read and knit on vacation. Nothing digital there.
5) What culinary delights will you partake in while there?
Well, we usually go to the local farmer's stands and see what's fresh. It depends on what's in season; In July it's usually strawberries and early corn. We also usually go to the little fish and chips restaurant in a neighboring town. It's called "Just for the Hallibut." Get it? :)
As a bonus question, what makes for a perfect day on vacation for you?
Having someone else change dirty diapers. 'Nuf said.
We snitched a bit of time on a quiet island nearby this week. It was a last minute plan, escaping with a minimal amount of preparation. One must have essentials that make it a relaxing time. Perhaps you have had this opportunity to escape, or maybe it's only been a thought to get away. However, suppose you were told to pack some essentials for a trip to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Describe your location, in general or specific terms and....
Generally, it has to be next to water. My two favorite places I've vacationed were the Outer Banks, and the family 'cottage' in Canada (see previous posts). One is lake, one is ocean, so I'm not picky. Both have their different benefits. Quiet is a must. I love hearing the loons at the lake and the waves at the beach. Family and friends are a bonus. I don't much like being alone, even on vacation. What fun is fun if you can't share it? (That's just me.) But specifically, we are going to the 'cottage' in July so that is what I'll be referring to.
1) What book(s) will you bring?
Probably a couple of mysteries and, ok, maybe a 'trashy' romance (I'll be ordering an Amanda Quick from Paperback Swap soon). Oh, and word puzzle books! Especially since mom and sis will be there.
2) What music accompanies you?
Well, since we've got an IPod, lots. Favorites? Gaelic Storm and Matchobox 20 (for me), Indigo Girls and various classic rock (for P), Backyardigans (for L). We also have XM radio, so we'll listen to lots of other various stuff on the way. We have very wide and ecclectic tastes.
3) What essentials of everyday living must you take (as in the health and beauty aids aisle variety)?
The necessities are shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, razor, body wash (you know, hygene stuff). The rest (as in, could probably live without but why would I want to): Sunscreen, SPF 30 face moisturizer, bug spray, maybe a hair dryer, but that depends on how much room I have left in the suitcase. Make-up? Well, ok, probably my concealer, mascara and some blush, just in case we go out to dinner one night.
4) What technological gadgets if any, will you take with you or do you leave it all behind?
P has to have the IPod, especially in the car. I will leave the laptop, but I doubt P will be able to leave his behind. (He's just sure his office can't function without his input. Not good with work/family boundaries, is P.) We'll take the cell phones, but mostly just for on-the-road safety. XM radio for in the car.
I mostly read and knit on vacation. Nothing digital there.
5) What culinary delights will you partake in while there?
Well, we usually go to the local farmer's stands and see what's fresh. It depends on what's in season; In July it's usually strawberries and early corn. We also usually go to the little fish and chips restaurant in a neighboring town. It's called "Just for the Hallibut." Get it? :)
As a bonus question, what makes for a perfect day on vacation for you?
Having someone else change dirty diapers. 'Nuf said.
Friday, June 01, 2007
Friday Five: Hopes, Visions, and Dreams
Wow this is my first ever Friday 5.....and I hope you'll like it...
My house has been full of young people all week, young people who have just left school, young people with an eye on the future. Their laughter energy, and hope are infectious, so with that in mind- this Friday 5 is about hopes, visions and dreams; by Sally at RGBP
1. Think back to the time you left High School, what were your hopes visions and dreams for your life/ for the world?
I don't really remember what I was dreaming when I left high school, but my oldest and fondest childhood dream was to be a great ballet dancer. Shoulda realized that that was gonna be out when I had to special order my shoes 'cuz my feet were too big. Oh, and I have all the grace of a charging rhino.
2. Have those hopes visions and dreams changed a lot, or are some of them still alive and kicking? (share one if you can)
Hmm, I think that dreams change as circumstances change, and certainly things have changed since high school. I don't really remember having anything but childish dreams (cute boyfriend, new car, better wardrobe, etc.) Now I'm happy to be a mom, drive a car with enough room for kid and kid stuff, clothes that don't wrinkle or stain easily, and having the AC work this summer.
3. Hebrews 11:1 " Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. " Comforting, challenging or frustrating?
Some of each. I have felt each of those at times with this idea. Course, I don't think the author of Hebrews was thinking of the kind of hopes that most high schoolers are hoping- like no zits on prom day and that mom and dad won't find out about that night you snuck out. That doesn't seem to have much to do with faith.
4. If resources were unlimited, and you had free reign to pursue a vision what would it be?
I desperately want some art training. Painting and pottery are my top two picks. I have dabbled in watercolor, oils and some slab pottery. At this point I just don't have room, time, or money to really work on any projects.
5. Finally with summer upon us- and not to make this too heavy- share your dream holiday....where, when and who with...
We're going up to Canada for a week with my family. My grandmother, Marm, as we call her, has a lake 'cottage' (cottage is in quotes because it's a 6 bedroom, two story, 4-season home that only gets used in summer) that we will all descend upon in mid-July. We'll canoe, hear loons call, catch frogs, go visit Marm's sister on the other side of the lake in their 'cottage,' and generally be lazy. It's on a beautiful lake in Ontario full of little rocky outcroppings and islands, smartly named Stoney Lake. Our family has been vacationing there since my dad was a kid. I took sailing lessons there... sorry, I'm reminiscing here. Lots and lots of fond memories. I love it there, so it's a dream come true for sure.
I would also love to take my mom and sister to Italy, where I spent three weeks during a spring term course in college and show them the places there I fell in love with. Also, I miss our trips to the Outer Banks that we did with P's family and some family friends a couple of times.
So take some time out re-visit you hope and visions...
My house has been full of young people all week, young people who have just left school, young people with an eye on the future. Their laughter energy, and hope are infectious, so with that in mind- this Friday 5 is about hopes, visions and dreams; by Sally at RGBP
1. Think back to the time you left High School, what were your hopes visions and dreams for your life/ for the world?
I don't really remember what I was dreaming when I left high school, but my oldest and fondest childhood dream was to be a great ballet dancer. Shoulda realized that that was gonna be out when I had to special order my shoes 'cuz my feet were too big. Oh, and I have all the grace of a charging rhino.
2. Have those hopes visions and dreams changed a lot, or are some of them still alive and kicking? (share one if you can)
Hmm, I think that dreams change as circumstances change, and certainly things have changed since high school. I don't really remember having anything but childish dreams (cute boyfriend, new car, better wardrobe, etc.) Now I'm happy to be a mom, drive a car with enough room for kid and kid stuff, clothes that don't wrinkle or stain easily, and having the AC work this summer.
3. Hebrews 11:1 " Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. " Comforting, challenging or frustrating?
Some of each. I have felt each of those at times with this idea. Course, I don't think the author of Hebrews was thinking of the kind of hopes that most high schoolers are hoping- like no zits on prom day and that mom and dad won't find out about that night you snuck out. That doesn't seem to have much to do with faith.
4. If resources were unlimited, and you had free reign to pursue a vision what would it be?
I desperately want some art training. Painting and pottery are my top two picks. I have dabbled in watercolor, oils and some slab pottery. At this point I just don't have room, time, or money to really work on any projects.
5. Finally with summer upon us- and not to make this too heavy- share your dream holiday....where, when and who with...
We're going up to Canada for a week with my family. My grandmother, Marm, as we call her, has a lake 'cottage' (cottage is in quotes because it's a 6 bedroom, two story, 4-season home that only gets used in summer) that we will all descend upon in mid-July. We'll canoe, hear loons call, catch frogs, go visit Marm's sister on the other side of the lake in their 'cottage,' and generally be lazy. It's on a beautiful lake in Ontario full of little rocky outcroppings and islands, smartly named Stoney Lake. Our family has been vacationing there since my dad was a kid. I took sailing lessons there... sorry, I'm reminiscing here. Lots and lots of fond memories. I love it there, so it's a dream come true for sure.
I would also love to take my mom and sister to Italy, where I spent three weeks during a spring term course in college and show them the places there I fell in love with. Also, I miss our trips to the Outer Banks that we did with P's family and some family friends a couple of times.
So take some time out re-visit you hope and visions...
Friday, May 25, 2007
Friday Five: Hard Habit to Break
"As many of you know, I have been experimenting with some severely curtailed Internet usage. I realized that I had gotten into some bad habits, which got me thinking about habits in general. I understand that a habits/random facts meme has already been going around. In the hopes that it hasn't hit too many of us yet, be as lighthearted or as serious as you'd like with the following:" -reverendmother
1. Have you ever successfully quit a bad habit, or gotten a good habit established? Tell us about how you did it.
I have a terrible time with keeping habits, good or bad. I get tired of "sameness," so I don't often do the same thing over and over. We faithfully recycle; does that count?
2. "If only there were a 12-step program for _________________!"
Chocolate! It ruins my good weight loss intentions about once a month.
3. Share one of your healthy "obsessions" with us.
Hmm, I think books might be an obsession in this house. We have shelves and shelves of them and I can't bear to part with them. Sure, I trade a few with family and even a few on Paperback Swap, but mostly, we just collect and let them gather dust.
4. Share the habit of a spouse, friend or loved one that drives you C-R-A-Z-Y.
Most of P's bathroom habits drive me nuts. Magazines everywhere, globs of toothpaste in the sink, tinkles all over the toilet seat, and trash all over the counter (even though there's a trash can right under the sink). Having separate bathrooms has saved this marriage without a doubt.
5. "I'd love to get into the habit of ___________________."
Exercise! I've tried and tried and, well, like I said, I'm not good at routine or habits, so I usually quit after a few days. No time, no energy, achy knees, lots of things get in the way (mostly excuses, though). So I'd really like to be able to drag my "not even remotely a morning person" carcass out of bed earlier and exercise before L gets up, but so far I'm not doing so good with that.
I also really want to try to walk more often.
Bonus: What is one small action you might take immediately to make #5 a reality?
I just got a bellydance DVD and it's low impact so I think that will at least keep the achy knees at bay, plus I got a gorgeous coin scarf to wear while I was at our local RenFest, so that's a fun motivation to do it. It jingles so prettily!
Bonus 2: Try it, and let us know how it goes in a future post!
Will do! I hope it's lots of fun.
1. Have you ever successfully quit a bad habit, or gotten a good habit established? Tell us about how you did it.
I have a terrible time with keeping habits, good or bad. I get tired of "sameness," so I don't often do the same thing over and over. We faithfully recycle; does that count?
2. "If only there were a 12-step program for _________________!"
Chocolate! It ruins my good weight loss intentions about once a month.
3. Share one of your healthy "obsessions" with us.
Hmm, I think books might be an obsession in this house. We have shelves and shelves of them and I can't bear to part with them. Sure, I trade a few with family and even a few on Paperback Swap, but mostly, we just collect and let them gather dust.
4. Share the habit of a spouse, friend or loved one that drives you C-R-A-Z-Y.
Most of P's bathroom habits drive me nuts. Magazines everywhere, globs of toothpaste in the sink, tinkles all over the toilet seat, and trash all over the counter (even though there's a trash can right under the sink). Having separate bathrooms has saved this marriage without a doubt.
5. "I'd love to get into the habit of ___________________."
Exercise! I've tried and tried and, well, like I said, I'm not good at routine or habits, so I usually quit after a few days. No time, no energy, achy knees, lots of things get in the way (mostly excuses, though). So I'd really like to be able to drag my "not even remotely a morning person" carcass out of bed earlier and exercise before L gets up, but so far I'm not doing so good with that.
I also really want to try to walk more often.
Bonus: What is one small action you might take immediately to make #5 a reality?
I just got a bellydance DVD and it's low impact so I think that will at least keep the achy knees at bay, plus I got a gorgeous coin scarf to wear while I was at our local RenFest, so that's a fun motivation to do it. It jingles so prettily!
Bonus 2: Try it, and let us know how it goes in a future post!
Will do! I hope it's lots of fun.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Friday Five: Big Event Edition
Did you know that the major purpose for forming a non-profit, RevGalBlogPals, Inc., was to be able to attract grant support for a large scale RevGalBlogPal meetup? My dream from the beginning has been attracting financial support that would allow as many of our bloggers to be together as possible.
RGBP, Inc. now has a planning committee, and we are in the early stages of planning the RevGalBlogPal Big Event. What, When, Where and Who are all on the table at the moment. In that spirit, I bring you the Big Event Friday Five.
1. What would the meeting be like? (Continuing Ed? Retreat? Outside Speakers? Interest Groups? Workshops? Hot Stone Massages? Pedicures? Glorified Slumber Party?)
I'm thinking sort of a combo of the above. Kind of a girlfriends get together, informal time to talk about what we do and how we do it, bring in a speaker and have a few groups or workshops. I think that having ample unstructured time would be good so people who know each other can catch up and people who don't can meet and find out about God's work through other's lives.
2. When in 2008 might you be able to attend? January? Shortly after Easter? Summer? Fall? Some other time?
Can't say at this point. Though I vote in warmer weather (refer below), maybe in May sometime.
3. Where would your dream meeting location be? (Urban Hotel? Rural Retreat Center? New England Camp? Southwestern Fantasy Hotel? Far away from civilization? Nearby Outlets or Really Great Thrift Stores?)
Oh, I so vote for a beach area! Outer Banks are my personal fave!
4. Who would make a great keynote speaker? (That's if #1 leads us in that direction.)
I kinda think it might be fun to invite PeaceBang to speak or at least do a workshop. I know lots of us read her Beauty Tips for Ministers site and she seems like someone I'd love to meet!
5. Did I leave out something you want to suggest?
Chocolate needs to be incorporated somehow. Maybe a knitting group, for people to share their tips and for anyone who wants to learn.
RGBP, Inc. now has a planning committee, and we are in the early stages of planning the RevGalBlogPal Big Event. What, When, Where and Who are all on the table at the moment. In that spirit, I bring you the Big Event Friday Five.
1. What would the meeting be like? (Continuing Ed? Retreat? Outside Speakers? Interest Groups? Workshops? Hot Stone Massages? Pedicures? Glorified Slumber Party?)
I'm thinking sort of a combo of the above. Kind of a girlfriends get together, informal time to talk about what we do and how we do it, bring in a speaker and have a few groups or workshops. I think that having ample unstructured time would be good so people who know each other can catch up and people who don't can meet and find out about God's work through other's lives.
2. When in 2008 might you be able to attend? January? Shortly after Easter? Summer? Fall? Some other time?
Can't say at this point. Though I vote in warmer weather (refer below), maybe in May sometime.
3. Where would your dream meeting location be? (Urban Hotel? Rural Retreat Center? New England Camp? Southwestern Fantasy Hotel? Far away from civilization? Nearby Outlets or Really Great Thrift Stores?)
Oh, I so vote for a beach area! Outer Banks are my personal fave!
4. Who would make a great keynote speaker? (That's if #1 leads us in that direction.)
I kinda think it might be fun to invite PeaceBang to speak or at least do a workshop. I know lots of us read her Beauty Tips for Ministers site and she seems like someone I'd love to meet!
5. Did I leave out something you want to suggest?
Chocolate needs to be incorporated somehow. Maybe a knitting group, for people to share their tips and for anyone who wants to learn.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Friday Five: Potato, Po-tah-to
There are two types of people in the world, morning people and night owls. Or Red Sox fans and Yankees fans. Or boxers and briefs. Or people who divide the world into two types of people and those who don't. Let your preferences be known here. And if you're feeling verbose, defend your choices!
1. Mac? (woo-hoo!) or PC? (boo!)Why yes, the Friday Five author reserves the right to editorialize!
PC, though more specifically, HP. I love my HP. It's much better than the other PC laptops I've owned and BTW, there's no way I'm trying Vista.
2. Pizza: Chicago style luscious hearty goodness, or New York floppy and flaccid?
None of the above. Give me a thin and crispy Margharita Neopolitana. Yeah, I've been to Italy, so there.
3. Brownies/fudge containing nuts:a) Good. I like the variation in texture.b) An abomination unto the Lord. The nuts take up valuable chocolate space.
Oh, 'b' for sure. Nuts are just that, nuts. Why in the world would you waste valuable chocolate space on them? I'd make an exception for caramel perhaps, but never nuts.
4. Do you hang your toilet paper so that the "tail" hangs flush with the wall, or over the top of the roll like normal people do?
I guess I'm normal (at least in that respect). I don't think it's as easy to get a hold of the TP if it's up against the wall.
5. Toothpaste: Do you squeeze the tube wantonly in the middle, or squeeze from the bottom and flatten as you go just like the tube instructs?
hmm, I like the use of the word 'wantonly' here, because I am certainly a middle squeezer, so maybe that's a latent wanton tendency trying to come out in a polite and non-threatening way.
Bonus: Coffee or tea? Ok, well, since it's my bonus, I get to say both. In the a.m., it's coffee, fully leaded, often with some ff flavored creamer involved. In the p.m., I stick to tea, usually herbal, unless it's an afternoon tea party with biscotti or scones involved. Then I go for the real deal.
1. Mac? (woo-hoo!) or PC? (boo!)Why yes, the Friday Five author reserves the right to editorialize!
PC, though more specifically, HP. I love my HP. It's much better than the other PC laptops I've owned and BTW, there's no way I'm trying Vista.
2. Pizza: Chicago style luscious hearty goodness, or New York floppy and flaccid?
None of the above. Give me a thin and crispy Margharita Neopolitana. Yeah, I've been to Italy, so there.
3. Brownies/fudge containing nuts:a) Good. I like the variation in texture.b) An abomination unto the Lord. The nuts take up valuable chocolate space.
Oh, 'b' for sure. Nuts are just that, nuts. Why in the world would you waste valuable chocolate space on them? I'd make an exception for caramel perhaps, but never nuts.
4. Do you hang your toilet paper so that the "tail" hangs flush with the wall, or over the top of the roll like normal people do?
I guess I'm normal (at least in that respect). I don't think it's as easy to get a hold of the TP if it's up against the wall.
5. Toothpaste: Do you squeeze the tube wantonly in the middle, or squeeze from the bottom and flatten as you go just like the tube instructs?
hmm, I like the use of the word 'wantonly' here, because I am certainly a middle squeezer, so maybe that's a latent wanton tendency trying to come out in a polite and non-threatening way.
Bonus: Coffee or tea? Ok, well, since it's my bonus, I get to say both. In the a.m., it's coffee, fully leaded, often with some ff flavored creamer involved. In the p.m., I stick to tea, usually herbal, unless it's an afternoon tea party with biscotti or scones involved. Then I go for the real deal.
Friday, April 27, 2007
RGBP Friday Five: What Are You...
1. Wearing
Ok, ok. It's after noon and I'm still in PJ's. More descriptively, the PJ's consist of a navy blue Old Navy tank (or cami as they're called these days) and P's cotton flannel red/navy plaid drawstring pants.
2. Pondering
What to do with Little One today so she doesn't veg in front of TV all day. Also, how to prepare a 2 minute or less intro to me for Church Much Nearer to My Family that contacted me today!!! (see above for more info)
3. Reading
Well, I'm still working on Cahill as shown to right. I'm also reading Murder on Capital Hill, by Margaret Truman. I've been reading Green Eggs and Ham a lot to LO lately, her current fave. I also just finished Passionate Marriage by David Schnarck (great name, huh?) I really, really recommend this for anyone in a committed relationship or for pastors who do couples counseling, even just premarital.
4. Dreaming
That I'll get the call to Church Much Nearer to My Family (and in a city where P could get a job without a monster commute!)
5. Eating
Just finished a cup of coffee with Chocolate Caramel creamer (treat while P was out of town, but there's a lot left.) It's time for lunch though, so I'm thinking a half a wrap (LO gets other half) and a bowl of soup.
Ok, ok. It's after noon and I'm still in PJ's. More descriptively, the PJ's consist of a navy blue Old Navy tank (or cami as they're called these days) and P's cotton flannel red/navy plaid drawstring pants.
2. Pondering
What to do with Little One today so she doesn't veg in front of TV all day. Also, how to prepare a 2 minute or less intro to me for Church Much Nearer to My Family that contacted me today!!! (see above for more info)
3. Reading
Well, I'm still working on Cahill as shown to right. I'm also reading Murder on Capital Hill, by Margaret Truman. I've been reading Green Eggs and Ham a lot to LO lately, her current fave. I also just finished Passionate Marriage by David Schnarck (great name, huh?) I really, really recommend this for anyone in a committed relationship or for pastors who do couples counseling, even just premarital.
4. Dreaming
That I'll get the call to Church Much Nearer to My Family (and in a city where P could get a job without a monster commute!)
5. Eating
Just finished a cup of coffee with Chocolate Caramel creamer (treat while P was out of town, but there's a lot left.) It's time for lunch though, so I'm thinking a half a wrap (LO gets other half) and a bowl of soup.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Friday Five: Whatcha Doin'?
Name five things you plan to do today.
Well, I too, am not working today. So here is what I might, or might not, get done.
1. Make pizza dough. Homemade is P's fave. I want to have some to freeze for busy nights.
2. Take a walk with Little One. This will depend entirely on the cooperation of the weather. I'm not too hopeful at this point.
3. I also want to get a big jump on my knitting. I'm pretty sure that my dear high school friend has had that baby girl of hers by now. (She went in Monday night for an induction.) So I need to hurry up and finish Sheldon!
4. Look over some old sermons and see about transferring them to digital media.
5. Catch up on whatever I didn't get done M-Th. That might be a little ambitious. But I can at least get a jump on the laundry.
Well, I too, am not working today. So here is what I might, or might not, get done.
1. Make pizza dough. Homemade is P's fave. I want to have some to freeze for busy nights.
2. Take a walk with Little One. This will depend entirely on the cooperation of the weather. I'm not too hopeful at this point.
3. I also want to get a big jump on my knitting. I'm pretty sure that my dear high school friend has had that baby girl of hers by now. (She went in Monday night for an induction.) So I need to hurry up and finish Sheldon!
4. Look over some old sermons and see about transferring them to digital media.
5. Catch up on whatever I didn't get done M-Th. That might be a little ambitious. But I can at least get a jump on the laundry.
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