Wednesday, June 28, 2006

HFCS

Recently I have been made aware of some of the dangers of high fructose corn syrup. While the internet is a dangerous venue for research because of the mass of misinformation, there are enough reputable internet sources waving the red flag against HFCS to raise my eybrows. What concerns me is that it seems to be in everything. I encourage you to do some research of your own and read your food labels carefully. Posted by Picasa

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

Where I'm From

I am from the wicker laundry basket that rests beneath the clothesline, from the hearth that warms the soul and the table we join hands round.
I am from the cheery, peaceful bungalow where aromas of freshly baked breads slip out the window to call loved ones home. I am from the porch swing where stories are told, hearts desires unfolded and kisses bestowed.
I am from hand made baskets bursting with Chrysanthemum. From delicate tea rose, and gentle Dogwood. From Japanese Maple, proud and colorful.
I am from puns and playfulness and loyalty, from Jack and Mert, and Russell and Sylvia, too.
I am from childlike generosity and unwavering love.
From faeries leaping from chimney stacks and flickering with light and from brownies who clean under the bed through the night.
I am from Calvin, Luther, and Zwingli; the reformers whose voices still echo today.
I'm from England and Germany, from tradition and stoicism. From sourdough bread and chocolate chip cookies, relished with thanksgiving to God.
From the floods and fires of vacations past, the adventures of clearing land and contests for the dirtiest laborer. From seaside strolls, ice cream shops, and bookstore addictions. From the members who stand by their loved ones when all the world turns their back.
I am from hope chests, old train trunks, and hat boxes tucked away for safe keeping until some small child happens upon these tiny treasures and stories from so long ago.


Hat tip to Mrs. Blythe for this wonderful idea. :)Posted by Picasa
Our daughter is away at camp and has been faced with some trying times. A mother's instinct is to run to her defense, bringing her back to the fortress of home, but as my husband said, what kind of teacher am I if I do not allow my student to ever take an exam? As our daughter is on the brink of womanhood, I cannot and should not be always at my daughter's side giving her the correct answers; there comes a point in every child's life when they must own their faith. God is to be her strength and her high tower, not me. Our daughter has certainly had many tests of faith while at camp, and thus far has done very well. Her verse to cling to during this time is, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." This is a comfort, because it is an honor and a privilege to be counted worthy to share in the fellowship of Christ's sufferings. May God increase her faith even more. Posted by Picasa

Friday, June 16, 2006

Bird Flu Update

This week I attended our city's bird flu planning meeting. Most the information given at this meeting was not new to me. What was most encouraging to me was the city's plan to shut down non-mandatory public gatherings if such a pandemic hits. In the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic, communities that enforced quarantines fared much better than those that did not. What was discouraging to me was the realization that I am not "over" prepared for such an event. Most influenza viruses come in two waves, each one lasting six to eight weeks, so I need to have more supplies on hand. Later, I will post some of my notes from the meeting.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Free Glad Rags

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Are We Driven By Fear?

So much of what I think, read, and post about is really motivated by fear. I find this to be very energy and time draining.

I'm concerned about bird flu, so I get daily google updates about it and read 1,000 page books about the 1918 flu epidemic and start stocking up on medications and food...

I read books about what's in processed foods, and I buy foods that are organic, but allow my mind to be poisoned by worry, which in turn negatively affects my health more than the processed foods or not exercising...

While it is good to make preparations for the future, take care of our bodies, and protect our children; it is not good to let these activities or thoughts consume us. To spend so much of our energies on these things is to be weighed down by the things of the world. In light of this, I will be removing my google alerts. I would be better prepared mentally for any impending pandemic if my mind were bathed in Scripture and prayer rather than fear.


Phillipians 4:4-9

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
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Tuesday, June 06, 2006

I'm currently in Chicago on a trip with my dear husband and my mother. While I'm here, I am reading a book entitled Chew on This by Eric Schlosser & Charles Wilson. Here are some quotes from the book:

Every month about nine out of ten American children visit [McDonalds].

The Golden Arches are now more widely recognized than the Christian cross.

Americans now spend more money on fast food than on college education, personal computers, computer software, or new cars.

More later...