Laughter is the best medicine

Just got a call from my Mom who was in the car "cracking up!" I just love it when my mom gets tickled. She starts laughing and it's contagious. Before you know it you're laughing too!!

What set her off tonight was my dad. They were on their way home from Christmas shopping and decided to stop by Baker's Square. My nickname for this restaurant is "The house of pies." It has every conceivable type of pie you could think of. Yup, a literal Pie Mecca or maybe Pie in the Sky. . . . now I'm getting silly. I can't help it!! I'm still tickled myself.

They had been discussing pies in the car. My mom wanted to stop by Baker's Square and get some pies to take to my sister's house. My dad didn't know if they were open. I guess the lighting on the outside of the place was "questionable" so my dad drove up to the front to see if he could peek around and see if anyone was in there. Just about that time he saw a sign by the front and thought it said "reserve pies," which is conceivable I guess. They do reserve pies around the holidays.

What the sign actually said was "reserved parking." He actually didn't see it until my mom pointed it out to him. From that point on it became a laugh fest. He did manage to actually go in and retrieve some pies, while my mom and I continued to laugh on the phone. Oh my y'all if you could have just heard us. I think I actually snorted at one point! Thank goodness I was safe at home in my PJ's, not a soul around to see me laughing. I do think I scared our dog though.

Well, if laughter is the best medicine then my parents and I have had a good dose of it tonight! Yup just what the doctor ordered. Funny how that works, isn't it?

Still laughing and crazy for Christ,
~Cheryl

The Siesta Miracle

I'm just overwhelmed tonight with the outpouring of love I've received from my post yesterday. Y'all are just the best. Thank you Siestas for being the body of Christ to me. Although we may be separated by miles, I couldn't feel closer to you than I do now.

What I didn't share in my last post was that my Dad had no idea I was putting this prayer request out. When he received the initial diagnosis he didn't want anyone to know. And I respected that.

However, last night when I got off the phone with him, I felt moved by the Holy Spirit to put the prayer request out. And so I did--here, with friends, with prayer groups, and of course with my own church family. The response has been nothing less than God breathed.

The difficult task today became just how to share this with my Dad, knowing full well he might be angry with me for "sharing." I did the only thing a brave Christian daughter could do--I sent an e-mail!! (ok, you can stop laughing now). Yes, I am a bit of a chicken when it comes to potential conflict.

And yes, as you might expect my Dad called this afternoon. God was definitely moving BIG TIME because he was so "up" and "positive." He said he woke up this morning and felt God just wash over Him with a warmth that he couldn't really explain. Then he checked his e-mail. He said he was just overcome by the presence of God--knowing that you were praying for him. And yes, that my Siestas is the miracle!!

So here's to this network of bloggers--those of you who posted, lurked, sent e-mails, but most of all prayed--even if just for a brief moment. I'll end this as I began by simple saying, "I'm Overwhelmed!"

Yes, God is good (all the time) especially in the blogging world.

Extremely grateful,
~Cheryl

Prayer Request for My Dad

My heart is tender at the moment and this is a little hard to type through the tears. I just got off the phone with my Dad. Two weeks ago he had surgery to remove a cancerous growth from the bottom of his eye lid. He returned today for a follow-up and the pathology showed that the cancer was indeed still there. He's scheduled again, January 2 for more surgery to remove more of the bottom eye lid.

My dad is a pretty positive person with an equally strong relationship with Christ. I rarely find him in a "down" mood. Tonight however, was extremely tough for him to share this news with me and as you might imagine equally difficult for me to hear.

All this is in addition to another cancerous spot on the side of his nose, which he has yet another specialist appointment.

Please pray for my dad, Bill--for complete healing. Of equal importance pray that he feels the very real comfort that only God can provide, perhaps even discovering Him in a new and more intimate way. And of course, my family could use some prayers too. I'm afraid we're all a little shook up right now.

Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. ~James 5: 14-15

As you know if you've been reading this blog, the Holy Spirit has been speaking and moving in a mighty way in my own life recently. So, I'm trusting Master Healer to accomplish His perfect will in this situation. Thanks in advance for your prayers.

For those of you who might be visual prayer warriors you can go back here to see a picture of me, my dad and mom from a past post.

With Love in Christ,
~Cheryl

The Potter's Hand

I haven't really come down from the mountaintop experience of yesterday. Actually, that's not quite true I have been facedown several times--just still on the mountain. So I hope you'll indulge me a bit here in this post. With my heart so humbled and open right now, I'm feeling particularly nostalgic for an oldie but goodie worship song. Mandy at "Just a Girl" talked about getting a song stuck in your head. This one seems to be stuck in my heart today, which is a very good place for it. So enjoy The Potter's Hand. As for me, well. . . I'm still worshiping my sweet LORD!

With a Heart Overflowing

Oh my!! My heart is just overflowing. Have you ever had one of those experience with Christ that's so special, amazing and breath-taking that you can't possibly put it into words? Well, that's case for me tonight. It happened in the middle of writing an e-mail. And frankly, the Holy Spirit just enveloped me with an overwhelming love. It washed over me much like a song He was singing in delight, although those words pale in comparison to the actual experience. I could do nothing other than stop in my tracks, drop to my knees, worship and accept His unexpected gift. Trust me it was nothing I deserved. Yet there He was my Sweet Savior pouring out His love for me.

Dennis Jernigan, CCM recording artist describes God singing over him. I hope you'll watch this short, interview clip. And moreover that you'll move closer in your own intimate relationship with Jesus. Who knows if you listen close enough you may even hear Him sing a song over you, too.

With a Heart Overflowing,
~Cheryl



P.S. Check out my favorite Dennis Jernigan CD, "I Surrender."

Being, Doing, and Having

Today's sermon really penetrated deep to my heart--a good sign that my heart has changed at least a little over the past couple of weeks. Our pastor provided a different look at Matthew 2, where the Magi come to see Jesus.

Now I won't bore you with all the details, not that it was a boring sermon, actually quite the opposite. The point was pretty simple, that Christmas is about finding Jesus, being with Him, discovering Him in new and different ways and ultimately being changed by our encounters with Him.

It's interesting that theme came up again today as I was flipping through channels tonight. I stopped for just a minute to listen to part of the sermon from Church on the Rock (St. Louis) and their pastor was talking about having an "extreme makeover." In order to do that we need three things: to be with Christ, to do His Will and the and only then will we be in alignment and have the life He has planned for us.

Pretty simple message really, yet it's one that is so counter culture this time of year when the emphasis is on doing (shopping) and having/getting (presents). As my pastor pointed out today, the Magi actually stopped and worshiped Jesus before they ever presented any of their presents--simply "being" in His presence.

Okay, now follow me here. I don't have to be hit by a truck to see a recurring theme today. So instead of worrying about shopping or Christmas plans, I need to "be" with Christ first. And that "be-ing" requires time with my Savior, especially when I feel the cultural pull and pressure of the "got to get it right/special time of year" mentality. Before I can really do anything, I need to offer my "sacrifice" of time and just "be."

Romans 12:1-2 puts it this way: Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Duh!! Can it get any clearer? At least not for me--today. It's about as clear/bright as that star that the Magi saw in the sky all those years ago. Now I may have bought a few presents already, but it's time to set them down, stop and worship my King. Until I do that, nothing else really matters, does it?

P.S. My husband reminded while I was writing this post, that we have the only dog in the world (okay, maybe a little exaggeration) that drinks fresh water out of a bowl that says, "Jesus is the reason for the season." Yup, God has a funny sense of humor!!

All this and Jesus too!
~Cheryl

Snowing in St. Louis

Let it snow. Let it snow. Let it snow!!! That could be the theme song here today in St. Louis. We have our first snow of the season. And it's turned out to be one heck of a snow!! It depends on what part of St. Louis you're in for the snow accumulation, but suffice it to say it's substantial, especially since the largest amount of snow we've had in the past couple of years during one day was 3 inches. We've definitely surpassed that today.

Now even though I've lived in St. Louis for 25 years, I'm still a Chicago girl at heart. So snow doesn't really bother me. In fact, I think it's really quite beautiful. My friends in St. Louis, however don't share the same sentiment. And in fact, they actually are a little obsessed (from my standpoint) with the whole "snow thing" especially when it comes to the roads and driving. Growing up in the Chicago area in a small town with a two lane road leading in to it, I've learned how to drive in snow. No biggie as long as the wind is down and there's no ice, which is the case here today in St. Louis.

Having said all of this, I have to admit, that I haven't gone out today. Nope, I'm enjoying the beauty of the snow from inside my warm home, sitting by the fireplace drinking some hot green tea--just as "snug as a bug in a rug" as my mom would say. Yes, life is good here at the Baugh household. So, let it snow. Let it snow. Let it snow!!

Walking Through the Valley

As you might know I've walked through my own valley lately. So, this daily message from Joel Olsteen Ministries really spoke to me. I hope it provides some strength and direction for you too as you move forward to "your vision of life on the other side."

Much love,
~Cheryl
**********
“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me” (Psalm 23:4 NKJV).

Do you ever feel like you are walking through the valley of the shadow of death? During the tough times, it’s easy to get to discouraged. I love what it says in the verse, “though I walk through…” No matter what you are facing today, know this: you are not alone, and you are just walking through. You don’t have to stop and live in the tough times. They are only temporary. I encourage you today; don’t allow fear to paralyze you in the middle of “the valley of the shadow of death.” Remember, God is with you. He is walking beside you. He is strengthening you. He is making a way of escape for you. He is lining up people and situations to bring you out of that tough place into a place of strength and victory. Don’t give up! Press on and walk through! Begin to get a vision of your life on the other side. See yourself more loving, more faithful, stronger and more blessed than ever before. As you keep moving forward and walking through, you will get to the other side and experience the victory God has in store for you!

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. Thank You for walking with me even in the hard times. I trust that You are taking me through my circumstances to a place of victory and strength. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Experience for a Lifetime

Are you looking for a Christmas present for that "hard to buy for" person. If so check this out.

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I absolutely have fallen in love with The Experience Bible. This clip is pretty long, but it's worth watching. This is definitely something I'm going to add to my Christmas list! And don't miss the second Grammy winner in the clip (it goes by really fast). It's none other than Iyanla Vanzant!

“Inspired By…The Bible Experience is exactly what its title indicates, an experience. I’ve listened to many audio Bibles over the years, but none have achieved what The Bible Experience has, which is to bring the Bible to life in a very real, compelling, accessible and experiential way. I would strongly recommend that you listen to it and share it with others. I guarantee it will change the way you and they engage with the word of God.”

- John C. Maxwell, New York Times Bestselling Author

Like Mother/Father like Daughter!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Me, my Dad and Mom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My parents called tonight. Now this is not unusual, even though they called at 11 pm. My parents are late night owls, which is a bit odd considering their age. My mom is 76 and my dad is 77. But I can't really complain, because I, too am a night owl as you can probably tell from my posting and comments. I guess it's in my genes!

I always get a kick out of their calls. Today they called to let me know that their refrigerator had been fixed. It had been out over a week as they waited on "parts." They were pretty inconvenienced over the whole thing, especially since the refrigerator was only 2 years old. Luckily it was under warranty and it didn't cost anything to get it repaired.

What cracks me up about the whole thing is they were complaining about keeping things cold. Now, if they lived in Florida or Arizona with other retirees (who go to bed EARLY), I could understand the complaint. But they live in the Chicago area!! They faced an ice storm during the past couple of days. It managed to pass them by but still it is pretty darn cold where they live. So keeping anything "cold" shouldn't have been a problem.

You know it's so easy for us to forget just how easy we have it in the good old USA until we lose something like our power, water, cable, refrigerator, stove. . . you name it. We have become very dependent on these things.

So tonight I'm giving thanks not just for these modern day conveniences, but for my parents who taught me how to NEED them. You see I don't just have ONE refrigerator at my house. Oh no, that won't do. I have two. Hey, you never know when one might go on the fritz!!!

With tongue firmly planted in cheek,
~Cheryl

Politically incorrect

Tonight was the annual high school choir/band concert in our town. Our youngest Andrew is in the mixed choir, so of course we attended. If you're a parent you've probably been to many of these type of things.

The best part of the night however was the musical selections. Both choirs sang about Jesus. . . not just the typical Christmas stuff but songs of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

I talked to the high school principal who said, "Only in our hometown could we sing about Jesus and NOT worry about a complaint of some type." And you know she's right. I'm afraid in too many schools across America Christmas has been replaced by "the holidays." And frankly, I'm sick and tired of it.

I'm tired of being politically correct. So when I stumbled across the following video on Fran's blog the other day, I knew I'd found a gem. I hope you enjoy (and cheer as I did) this. Merry Christmas my Siestas! Let us never forgot who the season is really about!!

Much Love at Christmas,
~Cheryl

Restoration

At the core of all restoration lie repentance and confession of sin. If I feel sorry that another is wrong and confess how badly I'm treated, not much restoration will occur. Restoration requires a complete change of my mind, so that I'm willing to look at myself and admit my wrongdoing and my need of help. ~Upper Room, December 9, 2007

I always find it interesting that the "timing" of devotionals works so well with the "timing" of my life. Now I don't typically read The Upper Room, but today I happened upon it and it really caught my eye.

I've emerged from my time of retreat with a changed heart, one that has been thoroughly examined. What the LORD showed me in my time with Him was a heart that had become in many ways too religious and lacking "real" spiritual fervor. Does that make sense? I guess I should say I had a good dose of Pharisee Complex. And frankly, when the Holy Spirit revealed this, it wasn't pretty. In fact, as Oprah is fond of saying, I had the "ugly cry." You know the one where all you can do is sob and hope to catch your breath in the next moment. All I could do was fall at His feet, confess my sin and ask for forgiveness.

How could I, how did I, when did I get to this point? And just why didn't I SEE it for myself?? I guess that's the hardest question for me to answer. I know it didn't happen over night, but rather crept in bit by bit while I wasn't looking. And that's the scary thing. It was there all along and I didn't even realize it. In fact, I would have argued against it had it been pointed out by anyone else other than the Holy Spirit.

So my dear Siestas thank you so much for all your prayers--for standing in the gap and lifting me up to the LORD of LORDS. I have emerged from my retreat, a new woman--one with a heart that is full, thankful, repentant, loving and most of all restored. Oh how I love my Sweet Savior for that!

Praising the LORD of second (third, fourth and on and on) chances,
~Cheryl

It's Going to Be Alright

A SHORT UPDATE I've come up for "air" so to speak, but still need some more time at His feet. Know that your prayers have provided and continue to provide much strength. I'll write more later. Anyway, here's what I wanted to just briefly share:

The Holy Spirit speaks to me through music. I'm not sure if that's the case for anyone else, but for me it's a powerful communication tool. In my time of spiritual retreat, this is one of the songs that provided strength, comfort and direction from my sweet LORD.

It's Going to Be Alright
by Sara Groves and Gordon Kennedy

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

I can tell by your eyes that you're not getting any sleep
And you try to rise above it, but feel you're sinking in too deep
Oh, oh I believe, I believe that

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

I believe you'll outlive this pain in you heart
And you'll gain such a strength from what is tearing you apart
Oh, oh I believe I believe that

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

When some time has past us, and the story if retold
It will mirror the strength and the courage in your soul
Oh, oh, I believe I believe,

I believe
I believe

I did not come here to offer you cliché's
I will not pretend to know of all your pain
Just when you cannot, then I will hold out faith, for you

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

Calling All Prayer Warriors!

My dear Siestas,

I come to you once again with a request. If you've been following this blog you know that I've been wresting with some pretty deep stuff lately. I spent some time talking to my pastor today. He posed another series of questions that I really need to dig down deep and consider. I know I don't have "peace" right now and know that's probably exactly where God has brought me--to a place of desperation.

So, right now, I'm headed into an extended time of fasting, prayer, and meditation. I'm blessed that I don't have any obligations until Friday. My kids have agreed to chip in and afford me this time alone. So there are no physical obstacles. I can spend some serious time at His feet.

What I'm asking of you is that you stand in the gap and cover me in prayer while I shut the rest of the world out and simply focus on Him--of hearing that still soft voice--and doing nothing other than "being still" (not an easy thing for me). I especially need you to pray for protection from spiritual attack and discernment on my part.

Frankly, I'm tired, weak and at a point of breaking. I need my Savior more than I've ever needed Him before! The good news is as you already know, that I don't have to rely on my own strength, do I?

Thank you all for your prayers. I'll be back in a while. . . hopefully stronger and with a real sense of peace and direction.

Love in Christ,
~Cheryl

Finding God in Cyberspace

I've gotta share with you my dear Siestas just how wonderful God is. Just when I think I'm at a low point, that I'm conflicted at every turn, the Holy Spirit shows up and speaks in a mighty way. This time, however He has spoken electronically through your e-mails, posts and blogs. Now I've never really considered how God moves through cyberspace. His presence is obvious. Just a cursory look at the names of blogs alone is evidence of that. What I'm speaking to is a different type of specificity--one where you know without a doubt that the message is just for you, directly from Him.

This has played out today over and over again. I've received e-mails from Siestas I don't know, posts from a variety of you, and even a call or two (although technically that's not cyberspace, is it?).

What really got my attention, besides the shear volume of the communication, was the blogs I was reading. Not just one blog mind you, but blog after blog after blog. Two blogs in particular have ministered to my heart today--directly to the core: Teri at Facedown and Mandy at Just a Girl. As I read the entries, both which are very different but speak so specifically to me, I could do nothing but weep.

For those of you who don't know me that well, I'm not much of a crier. It's not that I don't feel things deeply, it's just that the "waterworks" don't come easily. Yet, here I was on my computer, sobbing like a baby. You see knowing how much He loves me despite my doubts and lack of faith--enough to reach down into the valley and communicate directly to me, just takes my breath away and of course set the tears in motion. He is so awesome,marvelous, majestic (okay you fill in the blank here)--Regardless words aren't adequate!!

Thank you my Siestas for all the support, love and prayer. Letting the Holy Spirit move through you has made a HUGE difference in my life today. So please keep doing what you're doing (and please keep praying for me, too). You never know how the Holy Spirit is going to use your simple words in a major way.

With much love and gratitude,
~Cheryl

Happy Birthday, Andrew!

My youngest, Andrew is 15 today. So in celebration of his birthday, I’m going to list fifteen things I love about him.

1) Andrew is a very talented actor and has had the lead in the past two high school plays.
2) He has a very mathematical mind; he “thinks” in mathematical terms.
3) I never have to prod Andrew to do his homework; he’s very organized.
4) He has a smart, quirky sense of humor.
5) He still loves watching cartoons, and will tape them when he sleeps in on Saturday mornings.
6) He has the cutest way of slinging his bangs out of his eyes.
7) He loves hanging out with his brother and sister.
8) Andrew always takes time to play with Payton; they’re real “buds.”
9) He is very coy about his friends (who are girls).
10) Andrew accepted Christ after watching the video, “Left Behind.”
11) He loves to wear his PJ’s as much as I do.
12) Andrew shares my love of music.
13) He’s a very talented artist.
14) Although he’s growing up, he still has a “baby” face complete with dimples.
15) He shamelessly promotes his birthday to everyone!

So, Happy Birthday Andrew and to the rest of you. . watch out! Not only are we celebrating Andrew's birthday today, he also received his learner's permit for driving!!

During the Storm

One of my favorite quotes is by Beth Moore. She says "We want Christ to hurry and calm the storm. He wants us to find Him in the midst of it first."

If that's the case, I guess I need to be looking for Him big time right now! Although today has certainly not been the wild roller coaster ride of yesterday, it has had it's own set of challenges. I find myself again in the position of wanting nothing more than to spend time with my Savior--to run to Him, sit at His feet and be His disciple. And that should be very simple, right?

But,life has a way of appearing more complicated than that. Could it be that those "complications" are simply self-imposed restraints that keep us away from God? Are our problems really divine opportunities to grow--to discover Christ in new and different ways? These and other questions are at the forefront of my thought process right now.

My daughter reminded me earlier today of something I often say to her, "Don't waste your worrying." And she's right. I don't need to worry especially if I'm truly trusting God. I can't change one thing by worrying. I can, however look for those "new ways" to discover and experience Christ.

So, instead of worrying during this current stormy season, I'm going to simply cling to Jesus, my One and Only. As long as I do that, nothing else matters.

Another Crossroads

Have you ever had one of those days?? I mean the type of day when you think, "Why did I get out of bed?" Today was one of those days for me.

Without going into detail, I felt like I was on a run-away roller coaster--one that keep plunging, coming up briefly only to plunge again. In fact, my stomach is a little sick just thinking about it now.

I know being a Christian means stepping out and walking in faith. And frankly, I think I've done a lot of that lately. I've been navigating some uncharted waters, so to speak. And although I've stepped out of the boat, I feel tossed back in by both my self-doubt and the ever-changing circumstances. Every time I take a step in faith, the boat moves!

So just what do I do? That's a good question, one I'm not sure I can answer at least at this point. Certainly my "flesh" has reacted today and not in the good, "fruit of the spirit" type of way. Instead, I've alternated between anger and tears. And as you might guess, I don't feel any better.

Now before you jump in and say I need to spend some quiet time with the LORD, let me say I've done that and will continue to do that. That one's a no-brainer for me. Frankly, I can't imagine any other way of "being" other than taking my wounded self to the Master Healer. Thank goodness I have 24/7 access to Him. Yes, He's been getting a real "work-out" from me lately.

A few months ago I stood at a crossroads and chose a path. Was it the right one? I don't know. Of course,I'm second guessing myself now. The question of "what if" haunts me. Did I miss the sign--what the Holy Spirit did to guide me? And perhaps that's the point of the whole thing--the place God wants me to be--unsure, and totally dependent on Him. But I'm going to be honest with you here. I don't like it. Nope, I don't like it not one little bit! Can anyone else relate?

Regardless what I do know for sure, is that my God is good (all the time) and HUGE!! So while I may be temporarily at another crossroads--standing, paralyzed. I know the LORD will guide my steps, if only I'll let Him.

Male or Female?

I love taking this type of quick quiz. Now I don't know how accurate they really are, but this holds pretty true for me. Try it for yourself.

Your Brain is 53% Female, 47% Male

Your brain is a healthy mix of male and female You are both sensitive and savvy Rational and reasonable, you tend to keep level headed But you also tend to wear your heart on your sleeve

What Gender Is Your Brain?

Tell Me What You Know

In case you missed it, Sara Groves released her new CD, Tell Me What You Know on November 6th. If you haven't had a chance to check it out yet, you're really missing something special. I love the lyrics to the last song on the CD. They really resonate with me.

You Are Wonderful
by Sara Groves


i have been talking to you since i was a little girl
so many sweet memories of giving you my world

you are wonderful
a friend to the weary
you have been so faithful
your goodness it follows me
you are beautiful
your love is never ending

i was just wondering today how over all these years
you've carried so many cares
calmed so many fears

chorus 2x

my savior my friend
all these years we’ve been walking
you are wonderful

Baby It's Cold Outside!

I'm sitting here this evening in a hoodie and fleece PJ bottoms, drinking some hot Celestial Seasons tea. It's cold out, especially for St. Louis. While I know that living in the Midwest requires a constant adjustment to season, the HUGE jumps we've had lately are a little disconcerting.

On a cold night like tonight, I'm glad I get to stay in. Nothing is better than sitting by a warm fireplace, just soaking up the heat. Now if my house were just magically straight, I could be on a picture postcard! Oh well. . . .

Clearly the Christmas season is just around the corner, at least the weather would indicate that. And I'm not even close to being done with my Christmas shopping. Somehow, I just can't motivate myself to get up and going this year. I'm thinking it may well be a cyber-shopping year on my end.

Anyway, I'm trying to keep warm here in cold, cold St. Louis. If you're living down south, we could use some of your warmth up here right about NOW!!

~Cheryl

It's a Woman Thang. . .

Admittedly, I'm a little weird, but when I saw this video, I just knew it was blog worthy. So what do you say Siestas?

While I've been Missing. . . .

Okay, it may have looked like I fell off the face of the earth, but truth be told, I've been a little under the weather during the past week. Thus no posts here or on any or your blogs. I'm trying bit by bit to catch up, but I'm not back to my 100% self yet. I did manage to get out of bed today (major accomplishment)!! So, hang on. . . I'll be back in the swing of things soon.

Much love,
~Cheryl

Ch-Ch-Change

Change is never easy. I don't know if you experience the same thing I do, but moving forward is a challenge, especially when you're out there in the water not knowing whether you're going to be able to walk or simply sink. I guess that's where faith comes in, right? But what if even that is challenged? And you're out there, just waiting?

I've been really drawn to the music of Sara Groves recently, not that her stuff is new to me (although she does have a new CD). I especially like the words in "Painting Pictures of Egypt." I think it captures where I am right now. Can anyone else relate?


Painting Pictures of Egypt
by Sara Groves

Verse 1:
I don’t want to leave here
I don’t want to stay
It feels like pinching to me either way
The places I long for the most
Are the places where I’ve been
They are calling after me like a long lost friend

Verse 2:
It’s not about losing faith
It’s not about trust
It’s all about comfortable
When you move so much
The place I was wasn’t perfect
But I had found a way to live
It wasn’t milk or honey
But then neither is this

Chorus:
I’ve been painting pictures of Egypt
Leaving out what it lacked
The future seems so hard
And I want to go back
But the places that used to fit me
Cannot hold the things I"ve learned
And those roads closed off to me
While my back was turned

Verse 3:
The past is so tangible
I know it by heart
Familiar things are never easy to discard
I was dying for some freedom
But now I hesitate to go
Caught between the promise
And the things I know

(end bridge)
If it comes too quick
I may not recognize it
Is that the reason behind all this time and sand?
If it comes too quick
I may not appreciate it
Is that the reason behind all this time and sand?

My Pilgrim Name

Your Pilgrim Name Is

Humility Priest

What's Your Pilgrim Name?

Back Home

I just returned from the National Communication Association Annual conference in Chicago where I interviewed potential candidates for an open position in our department. I've got to admit I wasn't really thrilled about going since I'm supposed to be "off work" right now. It was, however, my choice. And I think I made the right decision.

Since I'm on sabbatical, my position as director of the communication studies program has been assumed by one of my colleagues. She took care of all the details of the interviews and took the lead. Oh my!! This was wonderful, something I hadn't really considered. Having been in this "interviewer" role too many times to count during the past 10 or so years, having HER in charge of things was great.

Out of all the screening interviews, it looks like we have one viable candidate that we'll bring to campus for follow-up. Not too bad. We'll do more "telephone" screening interviews later this month.

As an added bonus, after interviewing my hubby and I got some much needed time alone. Our room at the Hilton was fabulous!! We were in "the towers"--the executive floor. Two bathrooms, a turn-down service with complete with Hilton robes and a chocolate on the pillow, a free happy hour (at least for non-alcoholic drinks) complete with yummy foods, another spread at breakfast and a view of lake Michigan to die for!!

With all this, you'd think I wouldn't be in any rush to get home. Right? Believe it or not I am, however glad to be back home. See it's always nice to get away for a while, but it's eve better to come back home!!

Free Rice Fun!!

Hey folks, my son at Greenville College sent me the link to this vocabulary game. Besides being educational, it provides free rice to the United Nations Food Program.

So check it out by clicking HERE. You never know you might actually have some fun (and learn something to boot)!!

~Cheryl

Janel Tagged Me!

Janel tagged me so here goes (I've never done one of these so hang in there with me, okay?):

Link to the person who tagged you and post the rules on your blog. Share 7 random/weird facts about yourself. Tag 7 random people at the end of your post, include links to their blogs. Let each person know by leaving a comment on their blog.

7 random factoids about me:

1. I love classic UGGs. I have eight pairs in different colors and wear them all year round. I want a pair of chocolate brown ones for Christmas (hint, hint: just in case my hubby reads this)

2. I auditioned (but didn't make it) for the reality show (now cancelled), "Starting Over." Click here to watch a clip from the show.

3. The name Cheryl follows me. I had good friends in both high school and college named Cheryl and my secretary is named Cheryl.

4. I am addicted to Starbucks.

5. My favorite food is pizza--any kind BUT St. Louis style.

6. I love Rob Bell's Noomas

7. I was a praise team vocalist for 10 years and now sing in a trio with my best friend, Melissa.

I tag the following:
1. Tami
2. Jean
3. Kelly
4. Diane
5. Kat
6. Erin
7. Tracey

Hillsong worship

Hillsong Worship is one of my favorites of all time. They can move me to worship like no one else. Just watch the clip above of "The Potter's Hand." Oh my!! Can you feel the Spirit moving???

So why am I posting this now? It's simple. Hillsong is coming to the St. Louis area and I'm so EXCITED I just want to shout it out to everyone!!! So, if you're anywhere near St. Louis, join me at the Church on the Rock at 7 pm in St. Peters for a fantastic night of worship. And all this is totally free!!

Woo Hoo!! All this and Jesus too.

In the still of the night

Oh how I wish you could see my pup, Patyon right now. It's the wee hours of the morning and pretty quiet here in my house. Everyone is in bed but me. This is some of my favorite time--late night/early morning.

While I was sitting here in the stillness of the night, I happened to look down and there is Payton on her back, eyes closed, and legs sprawled--one kind of up in the air, the other three relaxed. By her side is the toy ball she was playing with before she fell asleep.

I wish I were more like Payton--totally trusting, relaxed, not a care in the world. She reminds me of my children when they were little. I'd sneak in their rooms at night just to check on them. They looked just like little angels. In fact, they were so still I sometimes wondered (okay, let's get real here. . I worried) if they were still alive. It's kind of like that scene in Terms of Endearment where Shirley MacLaine continually checks on her baby to make sure she's still breathing.

Ah, Payton just sighed and has rolled over on her side, still totally unaware of my presence. And you know I really want to be like her.

You see I want to be so comfortable, that despite the circumstance I can feel totally safe, protected, relaxed, not worried and on and on. And although I can claim that for myself more often than not, I'm afraid it's still broken by my temporary lack of trust from time to time.

So, just how do I secure that consistency? I know I have everything I need because I have the Holy Spirit abiding in me. Come on! What more do I need?

Of course, the answer to that is nothing. I simply need to go back to my roots--to become that little child who always trusted that mom and dad would be there for her, or in my example tonight the pup who trusts her owner to take care of her, protect her and provide for all her needs.

I learned in the conference that I recently attended that my prayers need not be elaborate. So I think I'll take that advice and simply end this with three words to my Heavenly Father:

"Help me, please!"


Enough said. Time to join Payton and catch some ZZZZZZ's.

When all us fails, disconnect the battery

Today has been one of those days. I guess I could complain and take a negative spin on the whole thing, but as you know if you've been following along with this blog, The Holy Spirit has really been transforming my thought process.

So, let me just say that today did NOT go as I planned, yet by the time it was over I was home, warm, comfortably surrounded by my family--those that I love best.

Are you wondering what happened today? Rather it's a series of events. First Sammie got lost coming home from FBU. Her exit off the interstate was closed. After a panicked call from her, I managed to get her back on a familiar path headed home. Crisis # 1 adverted.

She managed to make it home just in time to pick up Andrew from school. Whew, crisis #2 adverted. Sammie headed off to her job at the local video store.

Then as I was quietly working on my laptop, comfortable in my PJ bottoms and sweatshirt, the phone rang. Sammie again. This time the security system on the car had gone crazy and would not stop. I managed to convince her to drive the car home (flashing lights and all).

I took her back to work and headed to see if our local mechanic, Norm was still in his shop. Luck was with me. He was there. He proceeded to work on my car while I waited patiently in the cold (in the haste of the crisis, I had forgotten to put on a coat). About an hour and a half later the problem was solved.

As a last resort he simply disconnected and then reconnected the battery. And Voila!! Problem solved. . well almost. It seems during the "checking out all the systems process that he had disconnect one of the fuses to the tail lights. A few minutes later, I was in business again.

After thanking our mechanic profusely, I headed home. And here I sit, snug as a bug in a rug with my Uggs on and a cup of hot Green tea. Yes, life can throw you some curves. The key is to remember to pray and breathe. A simple "help me God" will suffice.

You see the challenges I faced today were only temporary. God's inherent goodness is always the same. It never changes. All I need to do is align myself with Him and everything looks much brighter.

I can say without hesitation, that I can't wait to see what God has in store for me tomorrow!! And I know some of you feel the same way, because you can bet whether it is good or bad, I'm going to blog about it here (tee hee). Life is good. God is good (all the time).

Be yourself?

My Spiritual Life Coach recently posed a question to me. "Who are you?" That's an easy question, right? I'm a mother, wife, professor, musician, daughter of a King. I'm a Chicago native by birth, transplanted to St. Louis. I'm a Christ follower, a musician, a teacher, a sister, a daughter, a musician, a friend, a pet owner. . and the list goes on and on. Strip away all those roles, however and what do I have? Now while I've got you pondering this or maybe I should say while I'm pondering this, take a look at this humorous clip from Beth Moore and perhaps you can see just why I'm having such a problem uncovering who I really am. I think the word, "Be yourself" may take on a new meaning.

Oh and by the way, I've done the Believing God study. I know one of the answers is, "I am who God says I am." It's really uncovering that who God says I am that I'm struggling with right now. So say an extra prayer or two for me, okay?

As for me, I'm going to get really, really still, spend some good quality time with the LORD and listen to that still soft voice inside me. So in answer to that question, "Who am I?" well, I'll just have to get back to you on that one. For now, know that I'm im good hands as I search for the answer.

My new theme song

This is my new theme song, "Just Showed Up" by Sara Groves.

Spending my time sleep walking
Moving my mouth but not saying a thing
Hoping the changes would take by working their way from the outside in
I was in love with an idea
Preoccupied with how a life should appear
Spending my time at the surface repairing the holes in the shiny veneer

There are so many ways to hide
There are so many ways not to feel
There are so many ways to deny what is real

And I just showed up for my own life
And I'm standing here taking it in and it sure looks bright

I'm going to live my life inspired
Look for the holy in the common place
Open the windows and feel all that's honest and real until I'm truly amazed
I'm going to feel all my emotions
I'm going to look you in the eyes
I'm going to listen and hear until it's finally clear and it changes our lives

There are so many ways to hide
There are so many ways not to feel
There are so many ways to deny what is real

And I just showed up for my own life
And I'm standing here taking it in and it sure looks bright

Oh the glory of God is man fully alive
Oh the glory of God is man fully alive

There are so many ways to hide
There are so many ways not to feel
There are so many ways to deny what is real

And I just showed up for my own life
And I'm standing here taking it in and it sure looks bright

The Trip (part 4) Flying below the radar

This is another installment of "The Trip."

Part 4
I was so excited to finally be back in Maryland for the Wonder Woman conference. I had attended it once before back in April, but just like Beth Moore's conferences, no two Wonder Women Weekends are ever the same. I'm beginning to see that this is absolutely necessary if the conference leader, in this case Iyanla Vanzant is led by the Holy Spirit.

This conference was small(only 50-60 women) and very experiential which is absolutely fantastic for really digging in deep. Now my strategy for experiential stuff is to pretty much "go with the flow" of things. I don't want to call attention to myself in any way. I just want to be part of the group, learn the lesson and move on. My friend calls it "skating." I like the term "flying below the radar."

Now all this is fine, unless of course the facilitator is being led by the Holy Spirit and the HS has a Word/lesson for you. While I had managed to stay in the background for most of the conference, I was not so lucky during one of the last activities. Now I've got to add that I've always been a good student. I like to please the teacher. So being singled out for NOT "getting it" is pretty much my worst nightmare.

And of course, you can guess what happened. I was caught by Iyanla herself NOT doing the exercise the right way. . . not that there was a wrong way. . oh goodness, I don't know quite how to describe it. Let's just say I got "singled out" and Iyanla stopped the group while she took time to work one-on-one with me.

I wish I could really describe the feeling I had at the time. It was a mixture of awe (after all it was Iyanla Vanzant) fear, embarrassment and I'm sure bunch more I just can't articulate right now. The point being, I was not flying below the radar. I was right in the path of the missile, so to speak.

It's funny how the Holy Spirit works that way. Just when we think we have everything under control. Boom! We're right in the path of the storm. . .no longer able to hide, but having to stand firm and learn the lesson that we need to learn. It reminds me of Psalm 139:

Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?

If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,

even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.

If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,"

even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.

As for me, I survived. And in fact, if the truth be told although I didn't LIKE the attention focused on me, I did finally "get it"--something I'm not sure I would have done if I had just "skated" by.

So here's big shout out to Iyanla Vanzant who called me out in front of a conference full of women. Thank you so much for taking the time for this wayward, somewhat resistant student. Your diligence and attention to the Holy Spirit provided me with an astonishing experience--an experience which has allowed me to spread my wings and soar instead of simply flying below the radar.

And as Iyanla might say, "And So It Is."

The Trip (part 3)--Silence is Golden

The following is part three of the on-going saga from my trip to Maryland.

Silence. It's something we're not very good with in the United States. Don't believe me? Watch what happens when the conversation stops in a group. Someone will immediately jump in with another topic. It's just part of the conversational ritual we've learned.

Now, I'm not a typical American. Really. If you've read much of my blog you already know that I'm a little weird. After all I study communication for a living. What you probably don't know about me is that I really like silence, or at least I thought I did. Unfortunately, in a house full of teens, silence is a rarity.

Interestingly, one of the components of my trip/conference included an extended period of silence. While this was frustrating for some, I found it quite refreshing and embraced it with vigor. After all it would afforded me some real "quiet time" with the LORD.

All this was fine and dandy until my roommate and I returned from the conference to our hotel room. We tried to open the door but our keys (those credit card things) would not work. We took turns. Each trying our key several different ways. Slow, fast, upside down. You name it. Unfortunately, it was a "no go."

Using a series of hand signals that would have confused even the best of charades players, my roommate headed to the front desk to get new keys. And I was left to guard our stuff which we had deposited by our door. Other hotels guests came by, looked, asked me questions, offered suggestions and all I could do was shrug or give the thumbs up sign. Oh my!! I had no idea just how much I relied on my voice.

How my roommate dealt with the front desk, I'll never know. But she did manage to come back with two functional keys. When we finally made it into our room we collapsed in a mixture of exhaustion and laughter, the likes of which has never been seen or heard since. Thank goodness there were no candid cameras to record us. I can only imagine how we looked.

I am now back to my noisy world. And although I miss the silence, I've also learned a valuable lesson. Silence may be golden, but a good word every now and again is priceless.

The Trip (part 2)--the car

The following is from the on-going saga I lovingly refer to as "The Trip."

We have a minivan at home. I don't like it, although it is comfortable for our family. My husband drives it 95% of the time. I tolerate it, but would much rather drive anything else.

So you'd think when I had a choice of a rental vehicle, that I would have chosen something other than a minivan. Oh no, no me! You see the the minivan was the cheapest thing I could rent, even less than a subcompact. And I'm all about saving money. So minivan it was.

After picking up our luggage we headed to the Enterprise counter. Sure enough they had the minivan I had reserved. It was almost identical to ours at home except for a couple of "extra" features--most notably automatic sliding opening and closing side doors as well as an automatic rear hatch. Just push a button and magically the doors and/or hatch opened and closed on command. Pretty cool--for a minivan that is.

It rained and rained and rained while I was in Maryland making the "magic" doors all the more attractive. I hate to admit it, but I actually grew to like the van. Yes, I said it. I, Cheryl aka Profbaugh liked the soccer mom, minivan that I've spent so much of my adult life despising. When time came to return the van I actually felt seperation pains, like I was losing a good friend.

Why do I share all this with you? I guess it's to show just how much our perceptions can change if only we'll open up our hearts. Yes, it was just a minivan, but for me, it represented so much more. It represented all those things that I stubbornly cling to in my life for absolutely no good reason, other than the need to be right.

And then I "got it." God had used an unlikely situation/object to teach me a lesson. How much of life have I been missing because of my preconceived notions? How many blessings has God had for me, that I've simply missed because I refused to open my eyes and see?

When I'm open to all the God has for me and I'm in alignment with His will, then and only then will I be living life to its fullest.

Until today, I've relied on my own stilted, preconceived notions instead of relying on God's perfect plan. But no more! So whether its a minivan or Mac truck, I'm going to stay open to all the LORD has in store for me.

As the song goes, "I don't want to miss a thang!"

The trip (part 1)

The following is from the travelogue I kept over the last week. Since it's a bit long, I'll post it in pieces. So, here goes. . .

Part 1
I’m sitting in BWI (Baltimore airport) waiting on my friend’s flight to arrive. And it’s been quite an adventure already! We’re headed for Silver Spring, MD to attend a women’s conference hosted by Iyanla Vanzant and I’ve got to admit I’m a little nervous about the whole thing.

You see, I’m not a good traveler. Nope, not at all. The fact that I’m willing to travel to the San Antonio Siesta Fiesta speaks volumes to my desire to fellowship with y’all.

My day started off late—a traffic jam in St. Louis. It was raining. I managed to make it to the airport only ½ hour later than I planned. Whew, I thought!! I checked my bag curbside with a wonderfully helpful American Airlines employee. And I thought I was set.

I headed to the security check point and realized I didn’t have my driver’s license which I had used curbside to check in. And of course, I panicked. I went through my purse, my computer case, my pockets. No driver’s license. I retraced my steps and went back to the curbside check-in. No driver’s license. Luckily, my AA buddy was still there checking people in.

Now I’m really panicking. I think he saw my rising level of anxiety, so he stopped and helped me. We went back into the terminal to the American counter and he tried to get me through to my flight, which was quickly approaching. The best they could do was without any picture ID was to go through a full-security check. Now, I don’t know about you, but I didn't “fancy” that at all. All kinds of invasive images flashed in my mind.

After calling my husband, who had turned around in stuck, rush hour traffic, I started to fully realize the gravity of this. I was NOT going to make my flight, which in essence meant no conference.

Just about that time, an airport police officer materialized with my license in hand. Can you say total relief!! I thanked him, the AA employees and quickly called my hubby, who by this time was not too happy with me, I bet. But to his credit he didn’t say a word. I think he sensed at that point I was in meltdown mode.

The rest of the first leg of my trip including the security at the airport was uneventful. I arrived at BWI (Baltimore, MD) without a hitch.

But, the story continues. . . more later!!

While I've been gone. . .

I hope you all have been blogging away--reading, writing and commenting. I just got back late Monday night from a very intense conference. So, hang on I've got some interesting things to post about my trip. Check back, later. Right now, I'm relaxing and enjoying my time at home.

~Cheryl

Twenty-five Years and Counting

Twenty-five years ago today my hubby and I walked down the isle at the First Church of the Nazarene in Chicago Heights, Illinois and exchanged vows. Since that time our household has grown. We added Matthew in 1988, Sammie in 1991, and Andrew in 1992. Oh and I can't forget my furkid, Payton who joined us in 2004.

Bill and I had a simple celebration today, which is quite appropriate if you know anything about us. We have so little time alone together that those moments we do, we treasure. It was wonderful!! We spent the afternoon going out to lunch and talking like crazy about us--no kids, no jobs, no worries, just us. Oh my, the memories. Time seemed to stand still for just a little while today.

When I think back to that "day" twenty-five years ago images flood back--walking down the isle with my dad, the music, Bill in his tux, our vows, the minister--my childhood pastor who flew back to do the wedding, lots and lots of picture taking, smiling until my face hurt so much I couldn't smile anymore, a simple reception, a decorated car that broke down on our drive back to ISU (Bloomington/Normal), and a late departure to our honeymoon where we saw Bob Hope. I could go on and on but I'm sure you're already a little bored by now.

I guess the only thing I really need to say is that I love Bill even more today than I did twenty-five years ago when we exchanged our vows. Honestly, I didn't think that was possible, but I'm here today to attest, my Siestas that it is.

What's our secret? It's really quite simple. We simply remember the three "C's"--Communication, Christ, and Compassion.

So here's to the next twenty-five years. We will continue our journey together with Christ firmly planted in the center. Who could ask for anything more?

Getting Sentimental

I'm in a very sentimental mood right now. Maybe because it's my 25th wedding anniversary tomorrow or perhaps because I'm flying to Maryland to attend a conference facilitated by Iyanla Vanzant, one of the life coaches from the show Starting Over at the end of the week. Regardless, this clip came to mind.

For those of you that don't know already, Starting Over was one of my favorite shows. During its third season, the show ran a two-week couples' bootcamp before beginning the regular season.

The following very, very short clip is from the end of the couples graduation ceremony. Listen closely to the words spoken by Iyanla. Oh my! This chokes me up every time.

With a heart overflowing with love,
~Cheryl

Check out this video: Starting Over - Couples Graduation

It's a Hard Day's Night

Sometimes being a mom is hard. No, I take that back. Sometimes being a mom is harder than usual. It's hard all the time. Come on girls can I get an amen? Now don't get me wrong. I'm not saying I don't love being a mom and that I've been blessed with three healthy kids, it's just that at times it can be a challenge.

I'm finding now to be one of those times. With three (yes, count them) teens, it's like an old episode of "Saved by the Bell" here. There are times where I wish for the "good old days" when they were little. And then I read blogs like Jennyhope's and I change my mind. Hey, I gotta get my beauty sleep now; those wrinkles are getting any lighter, are they?

Why am I pondering all this right now? Well, we've hit even another milestone in our household. Our youngest, Andrew who's a sophmore in high school went to his first teen-age girl birthday party.

Now I've suspected something was going on for a while. He's developed the habit of showering twice a day. Sammie has taken to calling him "bathroom boy." Yes, they share a bathroom. Bad planning on my part, I know, but I digress.

So, I guess my baby is growing up. Although I'm not quite sure I'm ready for this, I don't really don't have any choice do I?

As I went to pick Andrew up tonight from the party, he must have hugged four or five girls before he left. Oh my, talk about a "hard" day's night!!! Do I have more challenges to face? From the look of things, you bet your life!!

A Mom's Perspecitve

Okay, this is just stinkin' hilarious!! Whether you're a mom or not, I think you can probably relate to it. Enjoy!!

Confessions of an Ipod Addict

Since I've been coming clean here in cyberspace, I might as well add another confession. I love my Ipod. Yes, that's right! I said Ipod. This forty something working mom is addicted to her Ipod!

Honestly, I never gave the Ipod "craze" even a second thought until Sammie and Andrew got Ipods for Christmas. Shortly after that my mom was hospitalized and I headed up to Chicago. Knowing I'd be facing many long hours in the hospital, Sammie offered to lend me her Ipod. It was at that moment my love began.

Now before you think I rushed right out a bought myself one, you need to know my budget wouldn't allow that. Instead, I waited patiently for my birthday and then dropped about a gazillion hints that I wanted one. Not wanting another "snow cone machine" repeat (don't ask. . really it's a sad story) my hubby took the bait and bought me my the coveted magic music machine.

Since that day, we've been inseparable. I almost always have my Ipod with me. I have it with me in the car, where I can listen with one of those adapter thingys. I have it with me when I'm in church (hey, you never know when you may get a really bum sermon. . .j/k Pastor Ray). But the point is, I keep my Ipod with me, like a security blanket.

I'm getting ready to travel to Maryland for a conference at the end of the month. I know while I'm there I'll need to leave many of my creature comforts in the hotel, including my watch and my cell phone. However, I'm NOT, I repeat NOT giving up my Ipod. Now Ipods aren't on the "no-no" list for the conference, but even if they were, I'd still find a way to sneak mine in. Can you say "break the rules 101?"

Now before you get all high and mighty on me, you need to know WHY I love my Ipod so much. I love it because it provides immediate access to praise and worship music, which of course connects me to my real love--Jesus.

So I may be addicted to my Ipod, but as long as it brings me closer to my sweet LORD (hey isn't that part of a song?) I won't be entering any twelve step program.

Gettin' my praise on,
~Cheryl

Oh no, not another one!!

I am now officially old. How, you might ask do I know? It's really quite simple. My second born child, Sammie got her driver's license today. Can you say, "Oh no, not another one?"

There's part of me that celebrates with her. After all this is quite an achievement. I remember the day I got my driver's license. It's one of those milestones in a young person's life.

Yet, there's another part of me that's mourning just a bit. . . . mourning the passage of time. I know I've been doing a lot of this lately. But just where did all the time go? I certainly don't feel old enough to have two children with driver's licenses. But, here I sit with exactly that.

So, as I take a deep breath, I'm going to choose the former. I'm going to celebrate. Life marches on (get the band reference here?) whether I want it to or not. Why not just enjoy the journey?

As for Sammie? Well, she' tickled pink. And although I don't have quite her enthusiasm I am going to enjoy sleeping in late tomorrow morning as she drives her brother and herself to school.

Hum. . on second thought this second driver thing may not be such a bad idea after all.

Homecoming

Why is it when you "come home" things are never quite the way you remember them? Right now I'm in Bloominton/Normal Illinois at homecoming, or what's left of homecoming. The festivities are winding down.

What's interesting is that no matter how often I travel here I always notice something that's changed. I wonder if that's the same for you?

Bill and I stopped by the mall where we met some 26 years ago. It's not there. No, that's not quite right. The building we worked in is there, but the rest of the mall is gone. Torn down and replaced by an outside set of strip mall stores. The store we worked in, Montgomery Ward is long since gone. In fact, I don't know if they even exist anywhere in the the USA anymore.

Good old "Wards" has been replaced by a Hobby Lobby. The cute and trendy outside mall has all the trappings of suburbia at its best--including a Starbucks and Cold Stone.

It's all a little disconcerting because it makes me realize just how fast my life is going by. Honestly, it doesn't seem like that long ago when I was in college at ISU. And of course, now I have two college students of my own. Oh my, where does the time go?

So, I guess the lesson learned for me, at least is that it's important to enjoy every minute along the journey. It goes by all too fast. And as the old saying goes, you can't go home again. What needs to be added to that, however is: Why would you want to??

Embrace the current day. Enjoy your life now. Kiss the kids and pet the dog. You may not be able to go home again, but you can look forward to new adventures and new memories.

As for me, I'm enjoying some much needed "alone" time with my husband!! Yes, life is good.

Another confession

This is a video of the 2005 ISU Big Red Marching Machine

Okay, so you already know that I'm a phone phobic, I guess I might as well come clean about some other things. You see, I'm also a marching band geek. I love marching band. I participated in marching band all the way through high school and college. And guess what I played??? Give up? The flag!! Now don't laugh too much. I bet some of you can actually picture me marching with flag in hand. Not only was I a flag, but I was captain of flags my junior and senior years in college. Okay, have I totally proved how geeky I am now?

Why do I bring this up? Well tomorrow my hubby and I travel to Illinois State University for homecoming. I'm on the alumni band board. We'll actually have our own alumni band in the parade and in the pre-game and half-time shows.

So wish us luck. I'm sure we're going to have a blast as we connect with folks we haven't seen in ages. And while many of the alumni will be focused on the football game, I know the real reason for homecoming. It's a good excuse for a bunch of old folks to get together and play "marching band" again together. Ah, the memories.

Marching to a different drummer,
~Cheryl

Confessions of a phone phobic

It's no secret, really. I don't like the phone. In fact, it goes even deeper than that. You see I'm phone phobic. Now I've learned to work through my phobia, but it's still there under the surface just ready to rear its ugly head.

I've never really liked the phone, not even as a teenager. But this disdain for the phone has really become apparent with the proliferation of phones during the past 10 years. Think about it. How far are you right now from a phone? Probably not very far.

I have phones in my house, my office, and in my car. For Pete's sake if I don't have a phone on my person, usually someone else does. All this in our attempt to "stay connected" to each other.

I'm not sure what good old Ma Bell would think about our current use of phones. Somehow, I don't think she (or we for that matter) ever envisioned our current reliance on them. Yet, most folks would be LOST without their cell phone. If you don't believe me, just try and take them away. Once at a conference, we were asked to surrender our phones. People were in tears. You would have thought they had asked us for our first born children.

So, here's my challenge to you. Instead of calling your friend, make some time to meet her/him for coffee, or stop by their house just to say "hi." I think you'll be amazed at just how rich that face-to-face communication will be.

As for me well. . . . .

"Cheryl cannot take your call right now, please leave a comment in the section below." (beep)

Not another HOOTERS!

My best friend Melissa and I went to lunch on Saturday for a belated birthday celebration at The Blue Owl. Now I hope I didn't get your dander up too much with the title of this blog, but hey you gotta give me credit for creativeness.

The Blue Owl is the exact opposite of "the Orange Owl" place. Servers and hostesses alike wear turn of the century long prarie skirts and high cut tops. Actually, The Blue Owl is pretty famous in this neck of the woods. It's located in Kimswick, MO. . not that far from St. Louis. Folks from near and far flock to the restaurant for mouthwatering food! Paula Deen of the food network did a special on The Blue Owl at the end of September. So, yes there was quite a WAIT.

No fear, Melissa and I used the time to checked out all the quaint little shops. You see Kimswick is a shopper's delight. Everything and anything can be found there. I purchased a gorgeous handmade butterfly quilt and Melissa bought some beautiful angel wings and a very unique sculpture of a face/hand blowing a kiss. Wish I had a picture to post here of it, but alas. . I'm camera challenged!

With our stomaches full and the trunk stuffed to the brim with newly purchased treasures, we headed back home. All in all it was a wonderful day. Not because of the food or the shopping, but because of the time I got to spend with Melissa. And after all, that's what it's all about. Relationship. Celebration. Frienship. It's so cool the way God has wired us with that need to connect with each other.

Yup, life is good here in St. Louis with my BFF and me. As Beth Moore would say, "All this and Jesus too!" Who could ask for anything more?

Shekinah Glory Ministry

Love really good gospel praise and worship music? Check out Shekinah Gory Ministry Live. An indy label. . but Gospel at its best. Ever since I discovered SGM in April I can't get enough of them. Oh my!! Yes, I'm gettin' my praise on BIG TIME!! I've included just a teaser in the above clip.

If you really want to listen to some more check out "Yes" in my song of the week in the upper right hand column. Listen to the whole thing or you'll miss out. If you can't feel the Holy Spirit moving within you after listening to this, perhaps it's time for a spiritual check up.

Crazy for Chist,
~Cheryl

With a little help from my friend

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Laura and Me--April, 2007~~~~~~~~~~~~

I just discovered my friend, Laura's myspace page. Actually, she's more than a friend. She's actually been my Life Coach and I guess if truth be told, although I'm not in an "official" coaching/client relationship with her now, I still consider her to be my Life Coach for life or as least as long as we're both still breathing.

What is a Life Coach? Oh my, now there's a million dollar question. And I'm not sure that I really can answer, at least completely. To reduce it to mere words is to trivialize it. And frankly it's too big for that. Suffice it to say, that she's been the one to really help me dig deep through all the layers into discovering who I was created to be or as Beth Moore in Believing God might say, "I am who God says I am."

But Laura's actually done far more than that. She's kept me accountable by giving me a fast kick in the wazoo when I needed it. I've learned I won't get away with making up any "stories" or "excuses" around her. Nope, she won't have any of that "intellectualizing" either, which is very difficult, by the way for a professor (hey who said you can't teach an old dog new tricks!) Oh no, that just won't do. She's forced me in a very gentle, loving, but firm way,to be really authentic--the very thing I struggle with the most and the very thing God wants the most from me!

So here's to you, Laura for all that you are and all you are becoming. Thank you for letting the Holy Spirit guide you and for never letting me settle for anything other than His truth for my life. That our paths crossed over something so trivial as a t-shirt is nothing less than miraculous. Don't you just love it? Oh yes, God does have a very funny sense of humor. I am blessed beyond measure to count you as a friend. And as your own mentor might say, "And So It Is."

On days forgotten

Have you ever done something so totally stupid that you feel lower that low? If so, you can probably relate to how I'm feeling right about now.

You see I forgot my best friend in all the world's birthday! I know, I know. How could I forget something so important?

Now I do have a host of reasons why the days of late have slipped away from me, including the fact that I spent part of her birthday pulling the car over to the side of the road to throw up (pretty sight, huh)and then driving home and going straight to bed.

But all that really doesn't matter, because I know I've hurt her deeply, even though she'd never say a word about it. Nope, not her. It's just not in her DNA. She continues to put on a smile and go through the days even when she feels unloved and forgotten by those who love her most.

Okay, now I'm even feeling lower, but this isn't about me is it? It's about her.

I guess the part the bothers me the most is what this communicates to her--that she is something of "less" importance in my life when nothing else could be further from the truth.

Why is it that we just take for granted those we love? That we don't let them know how much they mean to us? That we let even one day, any day go by without telling them how much we love them?

I don't have an answer for that. But I can tell you I've had my wake up call. I'm going to say what I feel. Reach out even when the circumstances of the day engulf me and let those folks in my life know and I mean really know how much I love and treasure them.

So this one's for you, my dear friend Melissa. I love you despite what my recent behavior might indicate. You are the "bestest" of best friends a girl could ask for. And why in the world you chose me, an absent minded professor for a friend, I'll never quite understand. I guess that must be one of those God thangs, huh? I am so thankful and blessed beyond measure to have you in my life, even when I don't tell you so.

With much love and lots of regret for missing your "special" day.
~Cheryl

Are You Thirsty for the Real Thing?

This Sunday our pastor preached on being thirsty--just how important water is to our daily survival. He used as the scriptural illustration the woman at the well. I love this story.

It reminded me of Beth Moore's illustration on the same topic in Breaking Free. Picture this: There are two empty vases on a table. One she fills will all kinds of things that satisfy us--food, entertainment, family, church service, friendship, tv, etc. Even though the vase gets full and is overflowing, there are still spots throughout that aren't completely filled in. In the second vase she simply pours water. And of course, all the spaces are filled.

And so it is with our own lives. Often we are thirsty and we choose the wrong things to quench that thirst--to fill all the spaces. We wonder why we're still thirsty. It's simply. What we really need is living water, not all the other stuff the world tries to persuade us that satisfies.

I don't know about you, but I'm tired of being thirsty, tired of choosing the wrong things to drink and tired of never quite quenching that thirst.

Years ago Coke used the slogan, "Coke, it's the real thing." Well, I want the real thing, but I don't want a poor imitation, no matter what the ad says (sorry, Coke).

I want the genuine "real thing," that living water that Jesus promised the woman at the well, oh so many years ago. So bring it on LORD. Quench my thirst. All I want, all I need is You!