If you're reading this post, I want to take some time to thank you for following my blog. It has been fun to write, when I have the time and can make the effort to get it done......
My schedule over the next 2-3 months is REALLY hectic. So, I'm going to be taking a break from posting for a few months. (I know, you're saying "what have you BEEN doing this year...)
I just don't want people to keep checking the blog to find I haven't posted. So, I'll try and let people know when I start back up again........
Thanks again for your interest and support of little old me...
God bless.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Friday, April 16, 2010
Rarely Is Anything Perfect
I know it's been a long time since I've blogged.... sorry about that. It seems like when I have some time to do it, I can't think of anything that I think would be interesting enough to read. Then I thought about it for a second and realized.... hey, that's never stopped me before! Why let it stop me now! So, here I am, late on a Friday night, just "letting it fly"!
Here's my thought for the day -- Rarely is anything perfect.... everything seems to have it's pro's and con's. Take spring for instance. I love spring when the weather warms up, but still keeps that low humidity. I love the various bursts of colorful flowers that really pop when the sun shines on them. I love getting some color back into my face from the sun, and hitting the beach. I don't love tax season. I don't love all the pollen in the air. I don't love the bugs coming back to bite and fly in the house.....
You get my point. Spring is great, but only if you focus on the good stuff, not the bad.
Isn't that the way life is for us... Think about it for a minute. Our marriage, our job, our cars, our house, our neighborhood, our children, our friends, our church.... need I go on. I'm sure you can quickly start thinking about both pros and cons for each thing I listed.
Like I said, rarely is anything perfect...... so let's do our best to focus on the pros of life and not the cons. That will be the best we can do to try and create as perfect a world as possible too live in.
I guess that was somewhat philosophical for me.... still shallow, but something to think about. And that about drained me... I'm going to bed.
Here's my thought for the day -- Rarely is anything perfect.... everything seems to have it's pro's and con's. Take spring for instance. I love spring when the weather warms up, but still keeps that low humidity. I love the various bursts of colorful flowers that really pop when the sun shines on them. I love getting some color back into my face from the sun, and hitting the beach. I don't love tax season. I don't love all the pollen in the air. I don't love the bugs coming back to bite and fly in the house.....
You get my point. Spring is great, but only if you focus on the good stuff, not the bad.
Isn't that the way life is for us... Think about it for a minute. Our marriage, our job, our cars, our house, our neighborhood, our children, our friends, our church.... need I go on. I'm sure you can quickly start thinking about both pros and cons for each thing I listed.
Like I said, rarely is anything perfect...... so let's do our best to focus on the pros of life and not the cons. That will be the best we can do to try and create as perfect a world as possible too live in.
I guess that was somewhat philosophical for me.... still shallow, but something to think about. And that about drained me... I'm going to bed.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Can't Lose That Eerie Feeling
I just took my wife away for the weekend, as we saw an time opening that we didn't want to pass up. My schedule gets busier as the spring progresses. We had a delightful time, centering our time around nice restaurants and relaxation.
Unfortunately, this may be the last one I feel comfortable going on.... You see, in the last two weeks, I've lost four lbs... count them, FOUR LBS! Now, my uncomfortable feeling has nothing to do with the food we ate over the weekend. It's the going out of town part, where we have to stay in a hotel room.
I've now started having this eerie feeling... I guess you'd call it a fear.... that since I've lost all this weight, somebody's stalking me. (Who wouldn't want a look, you know? It's not like I've signed up for AARP yet... (I could have, but didn't do it.)) I mean, you can't always get doors at hotels withOUT peepholes in them. I just KNOW that somebody's trying to track my room down, get close to mine, and ..... apparently it's really easy to reverse the peepholes....you know the rest. I feel violated just thinking about it.
I know it's important to get away with my wife, but I just don't know if I can get over this. Anyway, if any of you see or hear about any "videos" floating around the internet, would you be kind enough to let me know.
Thanks.
Unfortunately, this may be the last one I feel comfortable going on.... You see, in the last two weeks, I've lost four lbs... count them, FOUR LBS! Now, my uncomfortable feeling has nothing to do with the food we ate over the weekend. It's the going out of town part, where we have to stay in a hotel room.
I've now started having this eerie feeling... I guess you'd call it a fear.... that since I've lost all this weight, somebody's stalking me. (Who wouldn't want a look, you know? It's not like I've signed up for AARP yet... (I could have, but didn't do it.)) I mean, you can't always get doors at hotels withOUT peepholes in them. I just KNOW that somebody's trying to track my room down, get close to mine, and ..... apparently it's really easy to reverse the peepholes....you know the rest. I feel violated just thinking about it.
I know it's important to get away with my wife, but I just don't know if I can get over this. Anyway, if any of you see or hear about any "videos" floating around the internet, would you be kind enough to let me know.
Thanks.
Friday, March 19, 2010
An Important Lesson - "The Cleaning Lady"
Check out this story I ran across today --
During my second month of college, our professor gave us a pop quiz. I was a conscientious student and had breezed through the questions until I read the last one: "What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?"
Surely this was some kind of joke. I had seen the cleaning woman several times. She was tall, dark-haired and in her 50's, but how would I know her name? I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank. Just before class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our quiz grade. "Absolutely," said the professor. "In your careers, you will meet many people. ALL are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say "hello."
I've never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her name was Dorothy.
What a great lesson for us today. All are significant. I like that......
During my second month of college, our professor gave us a pop quiz. I was a conscientious student and had breezed through the questions until I read the last one: "What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?"
Surely this was some kind of joke. I had seen the cleaning woman several times. She was tall, dark-haired and in her 50's, but how would I know her name? I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank. Just before class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our quiz grade. "Absolutely," said the professor. "In your careers, you will meet many people. ALL are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say "hello."
I've never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her name was Dorothy.
What a great lesson for us today. All are significant. I like that......
Monday, March 15, 2010
Ahh, Country Music at It's Best
I'm not a real country music fan, but I know some who are..... I can appreciate the concept of telling a story to music..... as some of these song titles will suggest:
Let Me Love the Leavin' from Your Mind
All I Want From You (Is Away)
My Wife Ran Off with My Best Friend, and I Sure Do Miss Him
She Got the Gold Mine (I Got the Shaft)
I Bought the Shoes that Just Walked Out on Me
I Got You on My Conscience but at Least You're off My Back
Walk Out Backwards Slowly so I'll Think You're Walking In
I Guess I Had Your Leavin' Coming
It Ain't Easy Being Easy
Does My Ring Hurt Your Finger (When You Go Out at Night)
Her Teeth Were Stained, but Her Heart Was Pure
If You Can't Live Without Me, Why Aren't You Dead Yet?
And my all time favorite..... If the Phone Doesn't Ring, It's Me.
Relationships aren't easy, are they? Thanks Country Music!
Let Me Love the Leavin' from Your Mind
All I Want From You (Is Away)
My Wife Ran Off with My Best Friend, and I Sure Do Miss Him
She Got the Gold Mine (I Got the Shaft)
I Bought the Shoes that Just Walked Out on Me
I Got You on My Conscience but at Least You're off My Back
Walk Out Backwards Slowly so I'll Think You're Walking In
I Guess I Had Your Leavin' Coming
It Ain't Easy Being Easy
Does My Ring Hurt Your Finger (When You Go Out at Night)
Her Teeth Were Stained, but Her Heart Was Pure
If You Can't Live Without Me, Why Aren't You Dead Yet?
And my all time favorite..... If the Phone Doesn't Ring, It's Me.
Relationships aren't easy, are they? Thanks Country Music!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Lessons Fit For a King - 2 Chronicles 26
It might seem kind of boring to read through both Chronicles in the Old Testament, but it really does have an important theme. The lessons become pretty obvious actually.... I mean, I think I figured out a pattern, and as you all know, I'm not the "sharpest knife in the drawer".
As I was looking at the 26th chapter in 2 Chron. I found this --
"King Uzziah did what was pleasing in the Lord's sight......And as long as the king sought the Lord, God gave him success. LESSON ONE -- Okay, please the Lord .... have success. GOOD
"King Uzziah's fame spread far and wide, for the Lord helped him wonderfully until he became very powerful. But when he had become powerful, he also became proud, which led to his downfall." LESSON TWO -- The Lord's help can make you famous and powerful. GOOD?
LESSON THREE -- Pride from fame and power can be our downfall. BAD
27th chapter --
"King Jotham did what was pleasing in the Lord's sight..... and became powerful because he was careful to live in obedience to the Lord his God."
LESSON FOUR -- Obey the Lord, be powerful. GOOD
28th chapter --
"King Ahaz did not do what was pleasing in the sight of the Lord..... That's why the Lord his god allowed the king of Aram to defeat Ahaz. The Lord was humbling King Ahaz, for he had encouraged his people to sin and had been utterly unfaithful to the Lord."
LESSON FIVE -- Disobey the Lord, be humbled. BAD
"When trouble came to King Ahaz, he became even more unfaithful to the Lord...... This led to his ruin and the ruin of all Israel."
LESSON SIX -- When trials and tribulations come, don't turn away from the Lord. BAD
RECAPITULATION (Isn't that a great word? You know "recap", "summary")
See how simple this part of the Bible is? When we obey God, good things happen. When we disobey God, bad things happen..... Could it get much easier? Thank you.
I know, I know, nothing is as easy it seems..... and two of these lessons remind us of that. When we start to become successful in any aspect of life, including spiritually, it's really easy to start getting prideful. We think we've finally arrived, and think "why can't other people act like us"? That's when we fall.
It's also very easy to allow trouble in our lives to turn us away from God and blame him, rather than seek him for direction or an answer to the problem. THAT'S all part of maturing in him. It's not easy. I mean, if chosen kings of countries had trouble with it, why should we expect it to be any different for us?
Anyhow, for what it's worth..... just something I got out of my devotions this week.
As I was looking at the 26th chapter in 2 Chron. I found this --
"King Uzziah did what was pleasing in the Lord's sight......And as long as the king sought the Lord, God gave him success. LESSON ONE -- Okay, please the Lord .... have success. GOOD
"King Uzziah's fame spread far and wide, for the Lord helped him wonderfully until he became very powerful. But when he had become powerful, he also became proud, which led to his downfall." LESSON TWO -- The Lord's help can make you famous and powerful. GOOD?
LESSON THREE -- Pride from fame and power can be our downfall. BAD
27th chapter --
"King Jotham did what was pleasing in the Lord's sight..... and became powerful because he was careful to live in obedience to the Lord his God."
LESSON FOUR -- Obey the Lord, be powerful. GOOD
28th chapter --
"King Ahaz did not do what was pleasing in the sight of the Lord..... That's why the Lord his god allowed the king of Aram to defeat Ahaz. The Lord was humbling King Ahaz, for he had encouraged his people to sin and had been utterly unfaithful to the Lord."
LESSON FIVE -- Disobey the Lord, be humbled. BAD
"When trouble came to King Ahaz, he became even more unfaithful to the Lord...... This led to his ruin and the ruin of all Israel."
LESSON SIX -- When trials and tribulations come, don't turn away from the Lord. BAD
RECAPITULATION (Isn't that a great word? You know "recap", "summary")
See how simple this part of the Bible is? When we obey God, good things happen. When we disobey God, bad things happen..... Could it get much easier? Thank you.
I know, I know, nothing is as easy it seems..... and two of these lessons remind us of that. When we start to become successful in any aspect of life, including spiritually, it's really easy to start getting prideful. We think we've finally arrived, and think "why can't other people act like us"? That's when we fall.
It's also very easy to allow trouble in our lives to turn us away from God and blame him, rather than seek him for direction or an answer to the problem. THAT'S all part of maturing in him. It's not easy. I mean, if chosen kings of countries had trouble with it, why should we expect it to be any different for us?
Anyhow, for what it's worth..... just something I got out of my devotions this week.
Monday, March 8, 2010
One Tweet To Many
Isn't it crazy these days to see some of the postings on facebook, the twitters, etc. Don't people have better things to do? Worse yet, what about the people taking time to read it? (No, this blog is NOT the same thing! Okay, almost...... giggle, giggle.)
Things like --
I'm at the dentist
I'm getting my teeth cleaned
She's working on the reeghhrr seeaafddde
Ow, that hurt.
Oh, I think I just drooled on myself....
You know, stuff like that.
I'm at the Subway near my house
I'm twelfth in line
I can't decide what to get
Now I'm eleventh
American or Provolone cheese?
Now I'm tenth...
You get the idea.
Okay, I'll quit this blog right now, as I really never had anything to say anyway. AND, I don't want to be confused with those crazy twitter people and obnoxious facebook posters....
Things like --
I'm at the dentist
I'm getting my teeth cleaned
She's working on the reeghhrr seeaafddde
Ow, that hurt.
Oh, I think I just drooled on myself....
You know, stuff like that.
I'm at the Subway near my house
I'm twelfth in line
I can't decide what to get
Now I'm eleventh
American or Provolone cheese?
Now I'm tenth...
You get the idea.
Okay, I'll quit this blog right now, as I really never had anything to say anyway. AND, I don't want to be confused with those crazy twitter people and obnoxious facebook posters....
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Thank You
I am so grateful for all the prayers, cards, messages and thoughts that went out to my family and me during the time of my mother's illness and death. It meant so much to me to know I had so many friends that were supporting me. Thank you so much. You'll never know what that meant to me.
I'm reminded of I Samuel 23. David was running from King Saul as the king was seeking to take his life. Verse 16 says, "And Saul's son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God."
That was all of you. You helped me find strength in the Lord during the time I was in great turmoil. Thank you for being my Jonathan.
Dad appears to be doing as well as expected. He has seen God continually honor his faithful life and righteous living. To make a long story short -- First, in less than two weeks of mom's funeral, dad found a perfect one bedroom apartment in a beautiful 77-unit retirement facility. (Somehow they just "happen" to have the first opening in the three years of their existence the week we checked on it.) He sold his house the same week, and has closed with cash in the pocket for the appraised value. (In this economy? Yeah, right.)
God takes care of His own.... Thank you Lord. Keep dad in prayer as he continues this part of his new journey.
I should be back blogging again..... I guess I needed the break.....
I'm reminded of I Samuel 23. David was running from King Saul as the king was seeking to take his life. Verse 16 says, "And Saul's son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God."
That was all of you. You helped me find strength in the Lord during the time I was in great turmoil. Thank you for being my Jonathan.
Dad appears to be doing as well as expected. He has seen God continually honor his faithful life and righteous living. To make a long story short -- First, in less than two weeks of mom's funeral, dad found a perfect one bedroom apartment in a beautiful 77-unit retirement facility. (Somehow they just "happen" to have the first opening in the three years of their existence the week we checked on it.) He sold his house the same week, and has closed with cash in the pocket for the appraised value. (In this economy? Yeah, right.)
God takes care of His own.... Thank you Lord. Keep dad in prayer as he continues this part of his new journey.
I should be back blogging again..... I guess I needed the break.....
Thursday, February 11, 2010
My Mom
Mom's viewing last night went very well. After the initial shock of seeing mom in the casket, and the tears that accompany such a shock, we realized what a great job the funeral home did on making mom look herself. (I think THEY did a better job on her hair than SHE usually does... sorry mom, you couldn't see how good you looked.... or maybe you could...)
We had around 150-200 friends and family come by to greet and share with us in the celebration of mom's homecoming. What a tiring, yet great evening. I saw some friends I haven't seen since high school and college. I was so proud of dad's strength and stamina. It wasn't until he got home he realized how tired he was.... There were pretty flowers all around, and numerous gifts designated to the hospice house. We thank you all for sharing your love and support for our family.
We woke up to single digit weather this morning, however, the sun was shining.... that's half the battle, right? We had another great time with many showing up for the funeral. Pastor Don Garvey did a masterful job of sharing some of our memories of mom, discussing one of mom's favorite scriptures -- Psalms 91 -- and giving the people a little insight to the life mom lead.... an incredible example of a Godly woman, who loved the Lord, was not a hypocrite, and knew her priorites in life... God and her family. Our oldest brother, Dennis, did a nice job of walking everybody through some of the Steen family history and a few good memories.
She was remembered for her quick laugh, sense of humor, and friendly smile. She was always concerned for others over herself. She loved to cook and clean. Her favorite Bible verse was "cleanliness is next to Godliness".... who woulda thought that was not really a verse in the Bible?
Raising four boys was not an easy chore, but she did it with grace and .... okay, it was done mainly with a lot of tears... who are we trying to kid here.... but she did it.
The hardest part of the day was when we four boys rolled that casket out to the hearst..... it was such a sense of finality as we lifted it up and slid it into that vehicle. The tears flowed and we had a brotherly bonding time of hugging and crying as we said "bye" to our mom for the last time.
We shared some great food and fellowship and then dad and us four boys went out by ourselves to the grave site to make sure everything was in order, and mom was placed in the right spot. (He didn't want her on his side :) All was well and we said our final goodbye... once again.
The incredible show of support and love for our family continued at the house for 5-6 more hours until we finally became quiet and we had a chance to feel how tired we were. Thus ends a day we will never forget, and will never want to forget. It was a great day of honoring an incredible woman... my mom. I love you mom and always will. See you soon.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Peggy Steen 's Final Arrangements
Please go to http://www.cedarmemorial.com/ to view mom's obituary, funeral arrangements and her memorial video, etc.
Dad has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be given to the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, in Hiawatha in Peggy's name.
The checks should be made out to the hospice house, but mailed to the funeral home --
Cedar Memorial Park and Funeral Home
4200 First Avenue NE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
(319) 393-8000
Thank you all for your concern and prayer for the family during this time. They are greatly appreciated.
Dad has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be given to the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, in Hiawatha in Peggy's name.
The checks should be made out to the hospice house, but mailed to the funeral home --
Cedar Memorial Park and Funeral Home
4200 First Avenue NE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
(319) 393-8000
Thank you all for your concern and prayer for the family during this time. They are greatly appreciated.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Always One Step Ahead of Us
I really don't know where to begin tonight..... it has been some kind of day. My dad, brother and I got a call at the breakfast table this morning from my older brother informing us that mom had made the decision to go ahead and finish this earthly race, taking her place at the winner's circle in heaven.....
You see, TODAY was the most incredible day of my mom's life. Today she went to heaven to meet and talk with Jesus. Soon to be followed by finding her mom and dad, as well as other friends and relatives. I'm sure they'll keep her busy until we can get up there and join her.
She's had many incredible days over the years -- meeting and marrying her husband (my dad); birthing four boys (okay, those might not have been so incredible at the time....); seeing, holding and playing with her seven grandchildren; not to mention her four GREAT grandchildren. However, I'm sure nothing can begin to touch what she saw this morning around 8:30am CST. What could possibly prepare you for that kind of adventure.... it had to be incredible.
To think it was just twelve short days ago she was first diagnosed with leukemia. (Okay, they weren't short at the time, but seem short now.) It's hard to believe how our world was turned upside down.
Through it all, though, we can see that God answered my mom's prayer -- make it short and fast, with no pain, and let me die in my sleep. Check, check, check. Thank you God.
When she got there, I'm assuming that she quickly RE-cleaned her mansion, checked to see if there was any food for her to start baking with, and went out to meet some of the neighbors.... you know, like Billy Graham, a few of the twelve disciples, Esther, etc. I'm sure she's in their neighborhood.
Obviously we'll miss her, especially my dad, who is starting a new journey of his own. We know all the words of comfort to say and hear, but it will be interesting how each of us digest this event in our lives. I'm sure we'll have some rough days, but we are at peace, knowing she has just had the most incredible day of her life. We would never take that away from her..... (she always was one step ahead of us.)
Peggy Jane Steen September 21, 1932 -- February 7, 2010
You see, TODAY was the most incredible day of my mom's life. Today she went to heaven to meet and talk with Jesus. Soon to be followed by finding her mom and dad, as well as other friends and relatives. I'm sure they'll keep her busy until we can get up there and join her.
She's had many incredible days over the years -- meeting and marrying her husband (my dad); birthing four boys (okay, those might not have been so incredible at the time....); seeing, holding and playing with her seven grandchildren; not to mention her four GREAT grandchildren. However, I'm sure nothing can begin to touch what she saw this morning around 8:30am CST. What could possibly prepare you for that kind of adventure.... it had to be incredible.
To think it was just twelve short days ago she was first diagnosed with leukemia. (Okay, they weren't short at the time, but seem short now.) It's hard to believe how our world was turned upside down.
Through it all, though, we can see that God answered my mom's prayer -- make it short and fast, with no pain, and let me die in my sleep. Check, check, check. Thank you God.
When she got there, I'm assuming that she quickly RE-cleaned her mansion, checked to see if there was any food for her to start baking with, and went out to meet some of the neighbors.... you know, like Billy Graham, a few of the twelve disciples, Esther, etc. I'm sure she's in their neighborhood.
Obviously we'll miss her, especially my dad, who is starting a new journey of his own. We know all the words of comfort to say and hear, but it will be interesting how each of us digest this event in our lives. I'm sure we'll have some rough days, but we are at peace, knowing she has just had the most incredible day of her life. We would never take that away from her..... (she always was one step ahead of us.)
Peggy Jane Steen September 21, 1932 -- February 7, 2010
Saturday, February 6, 2010
.....To Die Is Gain
This is a short post tonight.... I'm exausted after another short night of being with mom, and will hit the bed early tonight. Dennis was kind enough to spend the night with her tonight. She was pretty active physically, but not mentally. She was really "antsy" and trying to get out of the bed all day. We were constantly putting her legs back up in the bed. She was insistent on "going home". (I'm not sure which "home" she was talking about....) She was not very mentally aware, and for the first day, did not acknowledge various people that came in to see her today.
We keep talking with her, and doing a lot of reminicing as brothers and family. We laughed ALOT today, just weren't sure how much she took in. I'd share some of those stories with you, but I'm afraid my employer, or really anybody associated with me professionally might read some of it.... (can't afford to risk that....if you know what I mean. :)
Pastor Don Garvey stopped by to check on mom and pray with us. He reminded us of what Paul said in the New Testament, "to live is Christ, to die is gain". We're trying hard to remember that for the sake of mom. We don't want to be selfish, as we know that mom is the one "gaining" in this situation, not us.
Go for it mom. You desire it! We love you.
We keep talking with her, and doing a lot of reminicing as brothers and family. We laughed ALOT today, just weren't sure how much she took in. I'd share some of those stories with you, but I'm afraid my employer, or really anybody associated with me professionally might read some of it.... (can't afford to risk that....if you know what I mean. :)
Pastor Don Garvey stopped by to check on mom and pray with us. He reminded us of what Paul said in the New Testament, "to live is Christ, to die is gain". We're trying hard to remember that for the sake of mom. We don't want to be selfish, as we know that mom is the one "gaining" in this situation, not us.
Go for it mom. You desire it! We love you.
A Blessed Family
As I prepare to spend the night in this now quiet room, except for my mom's peaceful snoring... (which, of course, is usually my job), I'm reminded again of what a blessed family I'm a part of. Not only my immediate family, which has been great this week..... but my extended family of Christians. What a bond we share --one that only gets stronger during trials and crisis -- which is when we need it most. It's like they come out of the woodwork, and you almost forgot that they were there....when all they needed was an invitation.
We spent another full day at the hospice house today, loving on our mom, and making her feel as comfortable as possible. Okay, I admit it. We boys had a few great moments making fun of mom's random and off the wall comments throughout the day. (I know, I know, she can blame them on drugs and illness, but what's my excuse?) Real funny.
It was a pretty good stream of people that came and went throughout the day. And that was along with the core of 5-6 that stayed with her from morning to night. I realized as the day went on that five of the seven rooms on our wing were occupied. Unfortunately, I never saw more than one or two people ever come by or enter any of those other rooms. In fact, to my knowledge, a couple saw no visitors...... how sad.
The Steen family is blessed, and I'm sure if you're reading this post, you are one of the reasons why. We can never adequately thank all the people that have show concern and prayed for my mom and our family during this time. We've been overloaded with food..... (I'm not complaining, mind you.).... and been shown love beyond compare. Thank you all for doing what you do.... it means a lot.
Our nurse told me this morning that her next visit to see mom was scheduled for next Monday, however, she didn't think she'd be making that visit. Her opinion was that mom would not make it through the weekend. (She's not God, of course, so we'll see what happens.)
Karen is flying in this Sunday and will be with me until Thursday. If the nurse is right, we may both go home that day, we're not sure. Time will tell. Thanks again for your prayers.
We spent another full day at the hospice house today, loving on our mom, and making her feel as comfortable as possible. Okay, I admit it. We boys had a few great moments making fun of mom's random and off the wall comments throughout the day. (I know, I know, she can blame them on drugs and illness, but what's my excuse?) Real funny.
It was a pretty good stream of people that came and went throughout the day. And that was along with the core of 5-6 that stayed with her from morning to night. I realized as the day went on that five of the seven rooms on our wing were occupied. Unfortunately, I never saw more than one or two people ever come by or enter any of those other rooms. In fact, to my knowledge, a couple saw no visitors...... how sad.
The Steen family is blessed, and I'm sure if you're reading this post, you are one of the reasons why. We can never adequately thank all the people that have show concern and prayed for my mom and our family during this time. We've been overloaded with food..... (I'm not complaining, mind you.).... and been shown love beyond compare. Thank you all for doing what you do.... it means a lot.
Our nurse told me this morning that her next visit to see mom was scheduled for next Monday, however, she didn't think she'd be making that visit. Her opinion was that mom would not make it through the weekend. (She's not God, of course, so we'll see what happens.)
Karen is flying in this Sunday and will be with me until Thursday. If the nurse is right, we may both go home that day, we're not sure. Time will tell. Thanks again for your prayers.
Friday, February 5, 2010
The "S" Word
Leave it to mom to prove me wrong on two things I said in my last post. It was nice to be wrong on these.
Remember I said she would probably not even realize where she was going today? Well, I waited until I saw the ambulance pull into the driveway to tell mom we were taking her to another place for more comfort. I didn't want her to have time to think about it, or object and be upset...... When I told her, she just said, "Is it the white house?" Yes, it was a big white house. Then she said, "Is it the house Don went to?" Yes, it is the house one of their best friends, Don, went to for his last days about a year ago. That was it. She knew where she was going, and had no problem with it. Once again, the peace of God was resting on her and this situation. She calmly allowed us to get her transported to an incredibly beautiful and tasteful facility to finish out her days. It is a serene and peaceful environment, a great staff that will take good care of her, and a place that is only 5 minutes from my dad's house. We couldn't have asked for more.
I also mentioned that I would probably never hear her laugh again..... wrong again.
Tonight all the brothers were in the room and the nurse came in and used the "S" word... We all pretty much scattered at that point.... (you know, the "S" word -- suppository). Craig, who decided to be the brother to spend the night with mom joked, "I guess I can let you know if it works or not...". To which I replied, "Can I leave my camera with you?"
We thought mom was in a deep sleep.... she opened her eyes, looked up and let out the first laugh I'd heard in five days! It was great..... It made me smile.... (you know, the "S" word -- smile.)
Remember I said she would probably not even realize where she was going today? Well, I waited until I saw the ambulance pull into the driveway to tell mom we were taking her to another place for more comfort. I didn't want her to have time to think about it, or object and be upset...... When I told her, she just said, "Is it the white house?" Yes, it was a big white house. Then she said, "Is it the house Don went to?" Yes, it is the house one of their best friends, Don, went to for his last days about a year ago. That was it. She knew where she was going, and had no problem with it. Once again, the peace of God was resting on her and this situation. She calmly allowed us to get her transported to an incredibly beautiful and tasteful facility to finish out her days. It is a serene and peaceful environment, a great staff that will take good care of her, and a place that is only 5 minutes from my dad's house. We couldn't have asked for more.
I also mentioned that I would probably never hear her laugh again..... wrong again.
Tonight all the brothers were in the room and the nurse came in and used the "S" word... We all pretty much scattered at that point.... (you know, the "S" word -- suppository). Craig, who decided to be the brother to spend the night with mom joked, "I guess I can let you know if it works or not...". To which I replied, "Can I leave my camera with you?"
We thought mom was in a deep sleep.... she opened her eyes, looked up and let out the first laugh I'd heard in five days! It was great..... It made me smile.... (you know, the "S" word -- smile.)
Thursday, February 4, 2010
6 Aloha Drive
Well, we made a big decision this morning. Mom doesn't know it yet, and may never realize it actually. There will be two paramedics coming to 6 Aloha Drive in Hiawatha, IA, to transport her out of her house for the last time. I can guarantee you that this house will NEVER be the same......
We determined, along with hospice staff's recommendation, that it would be best for mom to get the professional care needed for her last few days. Care that her family cannot properly provide. We did our best. She will be going to a beautiful hospice house to be cared for, which will allow us just to be family and not full care givers.
My dad knows that once that vehicle pulls up, his house will be a much lonelier place. However, we know that this is the best decision for all concerned and he is at peace.
But mom has shown her heart and spirit again, even in her hallucinations...... last night she saw a little kitten on the ceiling. Not too scary right? That was mom. No dark side, all light. She was a delight to be around and always brightened the room with her quick laugh. I guess we'll need to remember that laugh in our memories, as it probably won't surface again......
Thank you for keeping her and my father in your prayers. God has been faithful and we know will continue to be until the end. God bless.
We determined, along with hospice staff's recommendation, that it would be best for mom to get the professional care needed for her last few days. Care that her family cannot properly provide. We did our best. She will be going to a beautiful hospice house to be cared for, which will allow us just to be family and not full care givers.
My dad knows that once that vehicle pulls up, his house will be a much lonelier place. However, we know that this is the best decision for all concerned and he is at peace.
But mom has shown her heart and spirit again, even in her hallucinations...... last night she saw a little kitten on the ceiling. Not too scary right? That was mom. No dark side, all light. She was a delight to be around and always brightened the room with her quick laugh. I guess we'll need to remember that laugh in our memories, as it probably won't surface again......
Thank you for keeping her and my father in your prayers. God has been faithful and we know will continue to be until the end. God bless.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Dad's Birthday
We're celebrating Dad's birthday tonight. It's actually tomorrow -- a spry 83. Married to the same woman for 57 years..... not a bad piece of work for an Iowa boy. Way to go dad! We're proud of you.
This will probably be the last birthday mom and dad have together..... I don't know how much mom will remember about it, but you can be sure we'll have some cameras flashing for proof. We expect just immediate family and will celebrate as best we can.
Mom is continuing to slip, and the details are not important. What is important is what I can't forget to tell dad......... See, as I was helping mom at 3am this morning, (who was insistent on brushing her teeth at the sink), she was adament that I tell dad to get that sink cleaned. "It's a mess!" Vintage mom.....
Without a miracle the time is coming soon...... And we are getting prepared, as I'm sure God is. I mean, it's going to be a pretty nice place He has to get ready for her. It might take more time than the usual place, as she deserves quite a mansion.....
Thanks for you prayers and support! God bless you all.
This will probably be the last birthday mom and dad have together..... I don't know how much mom will remember about it, but you can be sure we'll have some cameras flashing for proof. We expect just immediate family and will celebrate as best we can.
Mom is continuing to slip, and the details are not important. What is important is what I can't forget to tell dad......... See, as I was helping mom at 3am this morning, (who was insistent on brushing her teeth at the sink), she was adament that I tell dad to get that sink cleaned. "It's a mess!" Vintage mom.....
Without a miracle the time is coming soon...... And we are getting prepared, as I'm sure God is. I mean, it's going to be a pretty nice place He has to get ready for her. It might take more time than the usual place, as she deserves quite a mansion.....
Thanks for you prayers and support! God bless you all.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Some Things are NO Fun.....
This morning I got the privilege of feeding my mother some breakfast. She's getting so weak, if she has to do it, she'd just rather not. I told her I had just made my "specialty" for her for breakfast. It was Honey Nut Cheerios, and I had added the milk myself..... I usually would get a good laugh, but now it was just a slight grin.... good enough for me. I told her if she didn't eat more, I'd have to try the "airplane ploy" on her. The one she used on us all these years. (It didn't work.)
If you haven't heard, what my mom thought was just not feeling good back in November turned into an case of Acute Leukemia. A very deadly and fast moving form of cancer. The doctors didn't really recommend treatment, as they thought she probably couldn't make it through. The cancer was throughout her body --- blood, lymph nodes, stomach, etc. Maybe 2-6 weeks to live. As time progresses, that number looks to be a pretty good window of time for Peggy Jane Steen, my incredible mom.
It's NO fun watching mom lose her strength to talk (we all know how she likes to talk!).....lose her strength to walk..... and begin the involuntary muscle twitches. I know it's not fun having them either.
I have a whole new respect for people that have gone before me..... caring for parents or elderly going through illness, etc. It's only been 5 days for me and I don't know how some people do it. My hat is off to all of you! Obviously only the Lord can give the strength needed for these privileged jobs.
Mom is still mom though. I told her yesterday morning I was going to get a shower. I could barely hear her, but she made it clear there were plenty of towels and I could get a fresh one. (Always looking out for others...especially her boys.) See mom has this thing..... you never use a towel twice. NEVER should you dry your face with the some towel that just dried your rear end the day before. "I don't care how clean that rear end was.... it's still touching your face!" That's mom. (Notice how I kept the language clean?)
She tries to get to the bathroom at night without ringing "the bell", because dad and I need our sleep...... she doesn't want to bother us. Such is the legacy that mom will be leaving behind soon. One that will live on in our hearts forever.
Dad is dealing with things as well as could be expected. He understands that God is ready for mom, and dad's not going to take on somebody like that in a game of one-on-one. He knows he'll lose. He's giving her up freely. However, it doesn't make the thought of living without her any easier to imagine.....
Dad is still dad.... I saw him eating supper by himself with a single bulb lamp pulled up beside his plate on the kitchen table. You see, that light only had one bulb. The overhead light had four bulbs. That's like..... four times as much electricity not being used....... Dad knows his four boys will be there for him as best we can. But nothing will take the place of that lady that's been on his arm for 57 years......
I thank each of you for your prayers and support during this time..... Some things are NO fun!
If you haven't heard, what my mom thought was just not feeling good back in November turned into an case of Acute Leukemia. A very deadly and fast moving form of cancer. The doctors didn't really recommend treatment, as they thought she probably couldn't make it through. The cancer was throughout her body --- blood, lymph nodes, stomach, etc. Maybe 2-6 weeks to live. As time progresses, that number looks to be a pretty good window of time for Peggy Jane Steen, my incredible mom.
It's NO fun watching mom lose her strength to talk (we all know how she likes to talk!).....lose her strength to walk..... and begin the involuntary muscle twitches. I know it's not fun having them either.
I have a whole new respect for people that have gone before me..... caring for parents or elderly going through illness, etc. It's only been 5 days for me and I don't know how some people do it. My hat is off to all of you! Obviously only the Lord can give the strength needed for these privileged jobs.
Mom is still mom though. I told her yesterday morning I was going to get a shower. I could barely hear her, but she made it clear there were plenty of towels and I could get a fresh one. (Always looking out for others...especially her boys.) See mom has this thing..... you never use a towel twice. NEVER should you dry your face with the some towel that just dried your rear end the day before. "I don't care how clean that rear end was.... it's still touching your face!" That's mom. (Notice how I kept the language clean?)
She tries to get to the bathroom at night without ringing "the bell", because dad and I need our sleep...... she doesn't want to bother us. Such is the legacy that mom will be leaving behind soon. One that will live on in our hearts forever.
Dad is dealing with things as well as could be expected. He understands that God is ready for mom, and dad's not going to take on somebody like that in a game of one-on-one. He knows he'll lose. He's giving her up freely. However, it doesn't make the thought of living without her any easier to imagine.....
Dad is still dad.... I saw him eating supper by himself with a single bulb lamp pulled up beside his plate on the kitchen table. You see, that light only had one bulb. The overhead light had four bulbs. That's like..... four times as much electricity not being used....... Dad knows his four boys will be there for him as best we can. But nothing will take the place of that lady that's been on his arm for 57 years......
I thank each of you for your prayers and support during this time..... Some things are NO fun!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
The "C" Word
I've thought about how too lead into this post, but I can't think of a good way to do it. So, I guess I'll just say it.......I found out this week that my mom has been preliminarily diagnosed with cancer. We won't know for sure until later in the week, as confirming tests will need to be done. She has a pretty large mass around her stomach and a couple smaller ones around her lungs.
Yep, the big "C" word. It's one of those words that freezes you in place for a few seconds before you can even think or respond. You're kind of numb and don't really focus too clearly. Now, I know of many people that have overcome this disease, but unfortunately your mind does not gravitate to them first.......
However, now that I've had some time to think a little, my faith is growing. I know that God is not scared of cancer, and this situation is not a surprise to Him. My mom is a child of His that He cares about very much. We have many friends and fellow believers praying that she will be totally healed. THAT's what we will be believing for and praying fervently. Please join me as we stand on the promises of scripture and believe that God will bring healing to my mom, Peggy J. Steen.
Thanks.
Yep, the big "C" word. It's one of those words that freezes you in place for a few seconds before you can even think or respond. You're kind of numb and don't really focus too clearly. Now, I know of many people that have overcome this disease, but unfortunately your mind does not gravitate to them first.......
However, now that I've had some time to think a little, my faith is growing. I know that God is not scared of cancer, and this situation is not a surprise to Him. My mom is a child of His that He cares about very much. We have many friends and fellow believers praying that she will be totally healed. THAT's what we will be believing for and praying fervently. Please join me as we stand on the promises of scripture and believe that God will bring healing to my mom, Peggy J. Steen.
Thanks.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
How To "WOW" With Words
I've started reading a book written by Frances Cole Jones, called "How To WOW" -- Proven strategies for Presenting your ideas, Persuading your audience, and Perfecting your image. I know, I know, you're saying, "Finally, Terry might learn something that will make him start to be a little less repulsive to listen too.... for a while anyway".
It's interesting that the words we use have a tremendous impact in our presentation and ability to persuade. For example, what word would you guess would be the most persuasive word in the English language? No....no.....no....no....not that either.... give up? A 1970 Yale University study claimed that the MOST persuasive word in the English language is "you". Surprised?
Probably not. If you think about it, we all like to be acknowledged and appreciated. We all like to know we count.
What do you think the remaining top twelve words on the Most Persuasive Words list are?
2) Money
3) Save
4) New
5) Results
6) Health
7) Easy
8) Safety
9) Love
10) Discovery
11) Guarantee
They make sense as well, don't they. So, let's make it a little game over the next few weeks. Let's try to slip these words into our conversations and see what happens. Hopefully it will impact our influence and persuasiveness, as well as draw more attentiveness from those we are addressing.... (I guess the next step would be to have something worthwhile to say, huh? Okay, okay.... first things first.)
It's interesting that the words we use have a tremendous impact in our presentation and ability to persuade. For example, what word would you guess would be the most persuasive word in the English language? No....no.....no....no....not that either.... give up? A 1970 Yale University study claimed that the MOST persuasive word in the English language is "you". Surprised?
Probably not. If you think about it, we all like to be acknowledged and appreciated. We all like to know we count.
What do you think the remaining top twelve words on the Most Persuasive Words list are?
2) Money
3) Save
4) New
5) Results
6) Health
7) Easy
8) Safety
9) Love
10) Discovery
11) Guarantee
They make sense as well, don't they. So, let's make it a little game over the next few weeks. Let's try to slip these words into our conversations and see what happens. Hopefully it will impact our influence and persuasiveness, as well as draw more attentiveness from those we are addressing.... (I guess the next step would be to have something worthwhile to say, huh? Okay, okay.... first things first.)
Friday, January 15, 2010
Thinking Like a Dog
If you have a dog, or have been around one, I'm sure there are times you're just dying to know what's running through their minds....... That happened to me the other day.
This is my old, little Yorkshire Terrier, Honey Bear. I let him out to to use "the facilities", as I always do. It was so funny to watch him slowly meander through our large back yard, trying to find just the right place to leave his "deposit". It must have taken him five minutes to make his decision.... what can possibly be the criteria for making that kind of decision so hard?
I thought maybe he was looking for the lawn mower wheel tracks? He wanted to make sure he did it between the wheels..... so I would have a better chance of stepping in it. (I can hear him snickering now......)
Or maybe he's looking for some good clumps of grass that are pretty thick and long. That way his "little doggy cigars" (I just made that up, as I'm trying hard not to use the word "poop" in this blog.... oh, never mind, I just blew it (I'm a little kid, aren't I?)). Anyway, that way his "little doggy cigars" will fall down to the soil and be camouflaged for the next unsuspecting barefoot person passing by.
Or what about the old "hidden treasure" ruse. It appears that he's angling one way, and then immediately turns and goes in another direction. At the same time, I'm almost sure he's counting his steps just like a thief who has to come back and pace off where he buried the treasure. Now every now and then I see a head fake too. He like, throws his head one way and turns the other, hoping if anybody is watching that it'll throw them off as to which way he's going next, or better yet, lose track of the step count...... I guess this idea would be an option if he needs to come back later for an evening "snack"..... it's a "treasure" to him. (I know, that's gross.)
Bottom line is, I guess I'll never know what Honey Bear's thinking.... it sure is fun to guess though.
This is my old, little Yorkshire Terrier, Honey Bear. I let him out to to use "the facilities", as I always do. It was so funny to watch him slowly meander through our large back yard, trying to find just the right place to leave his "deposit". It must have taken him five minutes to make his decision.... what can possibly be the criteria for making that kind of decision so hard?
I thought maybe he was looking for the lawn mower wheel tracks? He wanted to make sure he did it between the wheels..... so I would have a better chance of stepping in it. (I can hear him snickering now......)
Or maybe he's looking for some good clumps of grass that are pretty thick and long. That way his "little doggy cigars" (I just made that up, as I'm trying hard not to use the word "poop" in this blog.... oh, never mind, I just blew it (I'm a little kid, aren't I?)). Anyway, that way his "little doggy cigars" will fall down to the soil and be camouflaged for the next unsuspecting barefoot person passing by.
Or what about the old "hidden treasure" ruse. It appears that he's angling one way, and then immediately turns and goes in another direction. At the same time, I'm almost sure he's counting his steps just like a thief who has to come back and pace off where he buried the treasure. Now every now and then I see a head fake too. He like, throws his head one way and turns the other, hoping if anybody is watching that it'll throw them off as to which way he's going next, or better yet, lose track of the step count...... I guess this idea would be an option if he needs to come back later for an evening "snack"..... it's a "treasure" to him. (I know, that's gross.)
Bottom line is, I guess I'll never know what Honey Bear's thinking.... it sure is fun to guess though.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Facebook "Accident"
I had an interesting thing happen on facebook last week. I think I'll call it an "accident", and you can decide what you think it should be called.
Do you know what the bible says in Proverbs 17:28? "Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue." I think I learned this biblical lesson through facebook this week...... okay, it should have been keeps silent through my typing, not talking........
I took a minute to scroll through some status' to see what people were up too. I ran across my mom's status, in which she had just typed the word WHITE. Now, if you know my mom, when it comes to typing or writing, she is a person of few words. (Talking is another story..... just kidding, mom!) So, I thought she was just letting us know that they had just got a fresh snow, and all was normal in the world of Iowa.
Since it's always a pleasure for me to rub in the Florida winter weather to my family up north, I thought I'd just respond with GREEN. This, of course, indicated what I was seeing outside MY window. Well, for some reason I started getting comments indicating what I typed was pretty funny..... I didn't know what I had done.
Then yesterday I found an article in my local paper. It said, "This week a campaign apparently designed to raise awaremess about breast cancer is sweeping the social networking site Facebook with a message asking women to update their status with one simple word: the color of their bra".
Oooops.......... lesson learned. Sometimes it's just better to mind your own business. You know, "don't stick you're nose where it doesn't belong".... stuff like that. I'm sure more words than "accident" come you your mind.
Do you know what the bible says in Proverbs 17:28? "Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue." I think I learned this biblical lesson through facebook this week...... okay, it should have been keeps silent through my typing, not talking........
I took a minute to scroll through some status' to see what people were up too. I ran across my mom's status, in which she had just typed the word WHITE. Now, if you know my mom, when it comes to typing or writing, she is a person of few words. (Talking is another story..... just kidding, mom!) So, I thought she was just letting us know that they had just got a fresh snow, and all was normal in the world of Iowa.
Since it's always a pleasure for me to rub in the Florida winter weather to my family up north, I thought I'd just respond with GREEN. This, of course, indicated what I was seeing outside MY window. Well, for some reason I started getting comments indicating what I typed was pretty funny..... I didn't know what I had done.
Then yesterday I found an article in my local paper. It said, "This week a campaign apparently designed to raise awaremess about breast cancer is sweeping the social networking site Facebook with a message asking women to update their status with one simple word: the color of their bra".
Oooops.......... lesson learned. Sometimes it's just better to mind your own business. You know, "don't stick you're nose where it doesn't belong".... stuff like that. I'm sure more words than "accident" come you your mind.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Motivation to Succeed
I heard the other day that as of January 7th, most new year resolutions are officially broken...... People can only pursue a goal for a week and than give up?!?! What is all that about?
Now, I didn't make specific resolutions this year, but I AM determined to get in better shape. (I know, it's all relative.) One method of motivation is to draw inspiration from a past event or experience. Let me give you an example of what might have happened to somebody, and see if it would be enough motivation for you to get in better shape.
Okay, let me think of something random... oh, oh, I know.... Say somebody was at the gym working out and this large guy was setting up for a big lift right next to him.... he gets all the weights on and turns to you (I mean "him"), and starts to say something. He looks you over, stops immediately and just smiles "hi", gets up and goes three machines down and asks a guy to come down and spot him on his lift...... Think about that. Would that be enough to make you work harder?
Whoever that guy was......I think I'll hang on to that thought, and really work hard this year.
I trust you can find the motivation to change your life for the better this year, no matter what it takes. Let's crush the one week mark and keep going! "Let's DO this thing!"
Now, I didn't make specific resolutions this year, but I AM determined to get in better shape. (I know, it's all relative.) One method of motivation is to draw inspiration from a past event or experience. Let me give you an example of what might have happened to somebody, and see if it would be enough motivation for you to get in better shape.
Okay, let me think of something random... oh, oh, I know.... Say somebody was at the gym working out and this large guy was setting up for a big lift right next to him.... he gets all the weights on and turns to you (I mean "him"), and starts to say something. He looks you over, stops immediately and just smiles "hi", gets up and goes three machines down and asks a guy to come down and spot him on his lift...... Think about that. Would that be enough to make you work harder?
Whoever that guy was......I think I'll hang on to that thought, and really work hard this year.
I trust you can find the motivation to change your life for the better this year, no matter what it takes. Let's crush the one week mark and keep going! "Let's DO this thing!"
Friday, January 1, 2010
2010 -- Happy New Year!
We made it through another year! 2009 has had it's ups and downs, but overall was another good year...... the "up's" were our new granddaughter and the "down's" were the poor economy and it's impact on my work and our household.
I have enjoyed doing this blog however, and think I'll try it again for another year. It gives me a creative outlet, as well as makes me think a little more than I normally would..... I said MORE than normal, not that I really do much thinking (as you obviously have observed.....)
I've decided to not do any resolutions this year. I've done them for years, but think some "guidelines" to live by will serve me better than some specific resolutions. Let's try it and see what happens. I'd like to challenge you to try these guidelines below with me this year....
Just for today --
1) I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow.
2) I know that I can do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime.
3) I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me.
4) I will accept what is. I will face reality. I will correct those things that I can correct and accept those I cannot.
5) I will improve my mind. I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration. I will not be a mental loafer.
6) I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path and I'll not speak ill of others.
7) I will do something to improve my health. (Okay, on this one I'm going to lose 10 lbs. SOMETIME during the year.....It might have to be an accumulation )
8) I will gather the courage to do what is right and take responsibliity for my own actions.
It's always exciting to think about the beginning of a new year, and what it has to offer us. I pray that you have an incredible year, filled with happiness, favor, peace and joy. I trust that God will bless this year as never before, giving you opportunities that you have never known.
GOD BLESS 2010!
I have enjoyed doing this blog however, and think I'll try it again for another year. It gives me a creative outlet, as well as makes me think a little more than I normally would..... I said MORE than normal, not that I really do much thinking (as you obviously have observed.....)
I've decided to not do any resolutions this year. I've done them for years, but think some "guidelines" to live by will serve me better than some specific resolutions. Let's try it and see what happens. I'd like to challenge you to try these guidelines below with me this year....
Just for today --
1) I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow.
2) I know that I can do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime.
3) I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me.
4) I will accept what is. I will face reality. I will correct those things that I can correct and accept those I cannot.
5) I will improve my mind. I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration. I will not be a mental loafer.
6) I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path and I'll not speak ill of others.
7) I will do something to improve my health. (Okay, on this one I'm going to lose 10 lbs. SOMETIME during the year.....It might have to be an accumulation )
8) I will gather the courage to do what is right and take responsibliity for my own actions.
It's always exciting to think about the beginning of a new year, and what it has to offer us. I pray that you have an incredible year, filled with happiness, favor, peace and joy. I trust that God will bless this year as never before, giving you opportunities that you have never known.
GOD BLESS 2010!
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