I Double Dog Dare Ya . . .

To watch the trailer, and NOT get excited!!!!  That's my boy, shoutin' out the production title!!  :D

Online Gaming, Anyone?

I ventured into the unusual land with anticipation, expecting to find familiar surroundings. Instead, a full-body avatar with my screen name attached to it was standing in an old-fashioned European hostel. I took in my immediate surroundings, then tried the latch on the virtual door. It swung open, and I now stood outside, looking around at a lush landscape, complete with city walls, merchant buildings, and the homes of gamers levels upon levels ahead of me.

Where, I wondered, was my beloved game?

I manuvered the virtual landscape a bit, trying this button and that, hoping to figure it all out.

One button responded differently than all the rest - it switched to a screen that revealed the multitude of gamers worldwide, playing this virtual empire.

Hmmm. I thought to myself, as I clicked yet another button that magically delivered me to a game table with none other than the very enterprise I was searching for.

I squealed with delight! Two opponents had also taken a seat beside me, and waited.

Gulp. I hadn't time to figure out any of the controls - but I was up first - my adversaries waiting in the wings for their turn.

I found the chat feature. "I'm a newbie. Patience please . . ."

"Sure thing," came a reply. "Just please don't leave the game."

Oh I won't, I thought to myself. If I could just manage to understand these icons in a flash.

Play began, and gingerly turns were passed among us. I fumbled, I strained, I played fluidly.

And then it happened.

I lost ALL power to my computer.

Gone.

Dead.

Finito.

"AAAAArrrrrrggghhh!" my frustration turned to immediate panic. Scrambling, I hunted in vain for my power supply. After much ado, I finally logged back in.

"This game has been temporarily interupted. Please log back in to continue."

What a relief! None of my information had been lost!

Except . . . except . . . there was no way in which to relog in from that particular screen. It wouldn't allow me to move in or out, I was trapped, without recourse.

Stupid software.

Ultimately, the night ended without enabling that particular pasttime. I was forced to begin anew, with different oponents.

Perhaps one day, while walking in the virtual world, I might find my fellow gamers who asked me not to leave the game. When I see them, I'll tip my virtual hat and offer a virtual apology for circumstances beyond my control.

Introducing ~ {drum roll, please!}

It's a Newsy Day at ChoiceCentral, Choosers! Due to the "new page" or "new chapter" being written in The Adventure, the decision has been made to spin off a new blog dedicated to our entertainment industry journey.

My Son, The Actor is a brand new addition to ChoiceCentral - the place to find all things 'groupie' related, journey-journaled in the days ahead. :D A main link will be supplied here soon, as well as a groovy new pad furnished for the rather spartan room currently sporting the very first post of our Michigan story: First Class Freak Out.

You'll not want to miss the party, now expanded to two blogospheric rooms! :D

Much is lined up for today . . . don't miss out! Seat belts fastened?? I heard the motor start!

Slacker

Ok, I'll fess up.

I give.

I'm outed.

Yes, Choosers, I readily and humbly confess my recent slacker photog status. It's true. My flaw has been revealed to me by a poignant photo, the likes of which took my breath away.

I've determined (although I don't have the word first hand yet -I did ask- ) that Jamie at steadymom.com has a personal photographer. You know, like a top executive has a Personal Assistant. Her photos are neatly tagged with a signature line, which directs one to the website of Desirea Rodgers, and all her skillful work.

How can this be? How can Jamie manage to have a photographer follow her around, shooting images of "a day in the life of?"

It's a conspiracy, I tell ya.
Or a friendship.
Or, a plot to cause me to covet.

[I shall not covet! I shall not covet!]

*********
UPDATE! This just in from Jamie: Yes, we keep Desirea in a cage and let her out everyday when it's time for a blog photo! (Not really, although that would be great! You're right, she is amazing.)
********

I think *I* want a personal photographer. :D

Oh, wait ~ I am an amateur photog, with a fairly good eye. What am I complaining about? LOL

Maybe it's those take-your-breath-away shots I've seen on her site that cause one to awe and wonder over the beauty of parenthood.

Or, maybe it's because Jamie herself is beautiful, and she photographs well.

I may never know the innate draw . . . but I do, Choosers, heretofore and with repentant and remediated heart, promise to hold out on you no longer.

:D

*******
Who knew the power of personal reflection whilst awaiting word from LA?

LOLOL

***********

The Waiting Game

Every so often, someone approaches you, and presents themselves in a quiet, unassuming manner. That calm, serene figure doesn't clamour for your attention; doesn't demand that you regard his or her personhood . . .rather, the dignity with which they carry themselves becomes a resounding expression of great character - and in that expression, obtains your respectful gaze. Such has been the way of my e-friend DancingQueen.

Be delighted, Choosers, by ChoiceCentral's Guest Blogger today!

*****

I was a frustrated soccer mom driving home after a game. Frustrated, upset and disappointed. My son’s team was ahead 4-0 at halftime; but in the end they lost 5-4. The last goal was accidentally put in by our own goalie!

I couldn’t see how it was right. How could it happen? Why did it have to happen to my son’s team? How did it all fit in God’s plan as surely it must? I shook my head in wonder at how God keeps it all straight.

Winning and Losing.
Justice and Injustice.

It was as if God was waiting for me to come to such a realization. That’s when the curtain rose and He put on a show for me:

He reminded me of the ugliness of the first half. Of course! How could I have forgotten? Our goalie had taunted the other team over and over again. I was upset then, too, at why our coach did nothing and how this kid seemed to be getting away with this bad behavior.

The Lord pointed out that Taunt King was indeed the same player who kicked the winning goal for the other team.

Now that’s what I call a penalty kick.

Ouch.

“Vengeance is Mine, and recompense;Their foot shall slip in due
time;” Deuteronomy 32:35a

Fear not, Saints, the Lord sees all.

He knows the deeds of the righteous and the unrighteous.

He’ll make it right. “But what about the teammates of his who lost the game because of him?” you ask. I’m confident God will work all of it out. (I asked my son about this incident from four years ago and he has no memory of it!)

Who is against you today?
Can you remain steadfast till the end of the game?

Who knows? Maybe the guy who mocked you the whole first half will, in the end, put in the winning goal for you.

"Surely there is a reward for the righteous; Surely He is God who judges in the earth." Psalm 1:6

Two Chairs

ChoiceCentral's Guest Blogger today is my cyber-friend K from Knit 1 Kids 4. If you've not taken in her photographical prowess, you are missing visual treats! K's thought-provoking entry below is 5-star! Comment today, Choosers: Where is your special God-spot?

Two Chairs

Imagine this...

You're sitting in your living room pondering life when an angel appears before you. He says that God would like you to be his guest today. No, you are not dying, He just wants to visit with you. You quickly think, oh why didn't I wear something nicer today or do my makeup? But no sooner do you think of fixing this and you are in the presence of the Holy One.

As you begin to take in where you are, you notice the light that surrounds him is greater than any light you have ever seen. It is warm like a fire on a winter day and brings you peace like a light in a storm. The glow illuminates the whole room and you take a moment to look around. You are surprised by what you see.

It is a simple space. No great decorations and not much furniture. So empty for the King of Kings. Just two chairs facing each other. One, you notice, is rather worn while the other almost looks new and somehow familiar. Clearly, it has been sat in, but not as often as the other. God takes the worn chair and invites you to sit with him. Hesitation is in your footsteps but such peace fills you that you move to sit.

You want to speak, but you seem to have no words to say. You think “what can I say to the one that created me, to the great I AM? Surely, he does not want to hear about my problems or obstacles I am facing. He called me here for some reason. I will let him speak.” So in silence you sit gazing into the warm light.

Time goes by unnoticed by you. Your senses are on full alert. Your eyes see the gentleness and glory of Him. Your hands feel the softness of the cozy chair. Your ears, though the room is quiet, hears sounds that are peaceful. Smells loft about and draw memories to your mind that make you smile.

Finally, God speaks. His words are eloquently and gentle, but also firm and filled with an amount of sadness you can feel. He speaks of the thoughts you have had. The empty room and lack of greatness - he notes that he only surrounds himself with what is important to him. The worn chair he sits in versus the chair you sit in – not many come and sit with me, they are much too busy. And yes, I want to hear about all of you – the good, the bad, and even the funny. I long to hear you speak to me. Yes, I know and see all, but to hear it from your mouth and heart means much more to me. To have you sit with me quietly or in tears or filled with laughter, brings me great joy.

You ponder what he is saying and your mouth opens. Words flow out like you are speaking to a friend, a confidant. Someone that you have know all your life. The person that will love you no matter what you say but yet holds you accountable when you waiver. The weight of your life slowly lifts off your shoulders. You stop and just listen to the silence. You feel comforted and loved. You close your eyes and just begin to worship Yahweh.

Soaked with tears, you open your eyes and find you are back in your living room. You are saddened to no longer be in his presence when your eyes rest on the chair you are sitting in. It is the same chair that was in God's house. It was here all this time and He was waiting for you to sit in it. Joy fills you soul as you know that you can come here any time for any reason. He is waiting for you.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6,7

The Glitch

We've had to work out the glitch in the system, folks.

The glitch, of course, being none other than *my own* faux paux in relaying information.

:sigh:

{chuckling}

Well, never mind the woman behind the curtain! Get ready! 'Cuz tomorrow morning, bright and early, ChoiceCentral's Guest Blogger will be front and center . . .and YOU don't want to miss what she's written! No sirrreeeeee! :D

Sung Mr. Rogers Style

"It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood,
A beautiful day in the neighborhood ~
Would you be mine?
Could you be mine?
Won't you be my neighbor?"

What beautiful submissions ChoiceCentral has net in yesterday's grasp for words! The blogosphere's quiet activity only served to produce exactly what I needed, what I requested: three Guest Bloggers! Shimmy up to the table, Gang! Prepare to blog! :D

If you've not had an opportunity to read the stor[ies] behind the picture, head now to the comments section of this post!

Meanwhile, the word of the day is Zany. Another audition is on the plate, and teething baby or no, the job must be accomplished! Send up a prayer for us, Choosers, that we might finish our task well.

One more thought before I go:

. . . direct your hearts unto the Lord, and serve him only . . . 1 Samuel 7:3

Reaching For Words: A Blog Contest

I'd like to wax eloquent about this photo:




Yet words seem to escape me today.

Therefore, an impromptu blog contest! Tell the story of this tree in the comment section today. There will be three winnners, each being prized with the status of Guest Blogger on my blog in the month of February.

Submissions will be considered on the basis of creativity, wit, and candor.

:D

Give it a whirl! What fun! :D

When Love Abounds . . .

Some days are tougher than others.

Some situations require that one use a different muscle of 'gumption' than one is used to using.

Sometimes one just simply needs to be affirmed, and know that they are loved.

I've recently introduced "Lovey" into Keller's sleep routine, in an effort to make strides in that department. (We are making progress!)

He quickly adapted to making Lovey a part of his life, and, without being overly attached, does take the comfort as a suitable replacement for me.

It's interesting to watch him derive comfort from an inanimate object.

Yet, somehow, my adult wiring is not too far removed from his young wiring, as, when gifted with inanimate badges of the blog award sort, my heart felt comforted, and willing to settle in easily, knowing deep down I am loved and appreciated.

From D at cusmyle (Thanks for the love, girl!):

And from Sharon at Flip'n Crazy (Today's photographic entry is THE BOMB!!):

Wow.

These "Lovey" type moments might just become addicting!

In order to spread the Love; to fulfill the commandment: As you have freely recieved, freely give . . .; to encourage attachment to "Lovey" blogosphere-wide, I joyfully share the following bloggers with you, that they might be encouraged by your visit today!

*****

A new-found e-friend has captivated me with her quiet and gentle spirit, her spiritual muse, and her spunk that comes forth as a result!

I'm sharing the Lovely Blog award with Atara, at speakingfrommyhouse.

Just in case you've not had opportunity to visit her blog before, via the link on my site, I'm sending y'all over to Taylor's pad at TayloredExpressions.

Her crafty handiwork is pristine!

I love my bloggy friends! Thanks for the enjoyable reads, the insight, the laughs, the Truths you've shared . . .and most of all . . .The LOVE.

:D

Time To Try My Hand . . .

at a meme! I read many, but rarely participate. Today, and exception to the rule! Prompted by cusmyle.

I Am: Scrambling to keep up with my 15 month old son, who awoke at o'dark-thirty, now into everything!

I Want: Several things that seem out of my reach right now. As a result, I've taken my desires and laid them upon the Lord as a sacrifice, and requested that He purge my heart and give me His desires.

I Have: A deep sense of appreciation and respect unto the Word of God - and renewed vigor toward ingesting it daily.

I Wish: I could order my world to my liking. That would, in part, entail geographically scooping up my home and property, planting it somewhere nearby my family in the Nebraska panhandle, adding some pastureland, a fence and a few horses. Then, I'd snap my fingers, my husbands employer would open a facility just down the country road, wherein he could walk to work daily in the Nebraska chill. Furthermore, my big girls would be equally removed from their Mississippi employment and successfully, gainfully be employed in the heartland. After that? Well, give me a moment to rest, then I'll add to! LOL

I Fear: That I'm missing out on something big.

I Hear: Keller babbling to Aubrey as they move down the hallway.

I Search: For a new apartment today for my older girls. I pray we find something nearby, in the countryside, within their price range.

I Wonder: If I'm going to enjoy this year.

I Regret: Not being capable of loving my friend better in her final days. My heart still aches, I miss her so.

I Love: The fact that I've survived, by God's grace, an unusual, painful, and difficult adulthood with the joy of the Lord as my strength. I love that the Lord delivered me, and set my foot in a large place. I love my Lord for His saving power, and His grace that has molded and shaped me into who I am today. I love that He who began a good work in me ain't finished yet!

I Dance: Regularly in my kitchen. Now if I could only get my husband out on a *real* dance floor . . .

I Sing: Alto, with gusto. Thanks, Dad. :)

I Never: Want to be found outside the Body of Christ, lost without Him.

I Rarely: Get to experience the delight of horseback riding in Nebraska anymore.

I Cry: When I've been injured emotionally.

I Am Not Always: Willing to do the paperwork; the hard physical task

I Am Confused: As to why theologians, seeking to know God, end up reducing God to the level of mere humanity.

I Need: More social outlets

I Should: Begin the paperwork for this years' taxes . . .

*****
Alright! TAG! You're it! Comment back if you are participating, so we can learn each other more! :D

Interviews of the inDellible Kind

All he needs is a pipe, a pair of 50's style heavy rimmed glasses, and a smoking jacket. Oh, and a British accent. PBS could have a star on their hands.

It was a close race, but Dell's "interview" picture came out on top.

No doubt he'll need to be interviewed, after this adventure is said and done! Oh, if dogs could talk . . .what tales they could tell!

Having my Mom arrive late last night put the DellDog over the top in terms of excitement! He's sure to suck up all the extra Grandma cuddles he can get for himself~ second in line of course to Keller, who is gently taking to the idea that this other woman in his life could possibly has some kind of benefit to him. ")

So, since we've a full agenda today, and you all are wishing I'd be quiet and just announce the winners already, I'll do just that. Planning on snapping a few pics of our day, to mesmerize you all tomorrow am.

And IF you're lucky, I *might* just tell you about my run in with Johnny Law. *Maybe*. *If you're good.* We'll see.

:D

Ready? Will the following fantastic choosers please stand up! -er, send me your addy to JaJireh (at) yahoo.com, to receive your happie!

KAREN: flutter2you! and

CHARLOTTE in MN!!!

YAYAY!!!

My lifetime friend (rockers and all!) and a new friend in the past year or so! What a winning combo!!!

Til tomorrow, top o the morning!

Winners In And Out Of The Game

I know so many of you are wondering about Aubrey's heart, and the contents thereof in this adventure we find ourselves in. As Aubrey has rigorously worked through the emotions of being 'second fiddle' in many ways, she has discovered much about herself. And I, in the process, have discovered much about my daughter.

I've discovered that Aubrey enjoys a sense of security. She likes to know that when she jumps of the proverbial cliff, a proverbial net is going to be there to catch her as she falls. I say this not to her detriment, but rather to our amazement. It is how she is hardwired. It's how she ticks. That piece of information, since she is a dominant personality is incredibly valuable to know. Now, as I assist her in navigating forward in her life, am fully aware that she would like to be educated about an endeavor before she begins putting her hand to the plow. (Or the fire-escape hatch, whichever the case may be!)

I can confidently state now that we have a game plan for Aubrey's success in persuing her heart's dream. And, should she discover along the way that this dream gives birth to another, different dream, we are a-ok with that.

So that takes us to the littlest of our bunch ~ the one who would seemingly only be tagging along for the ride.

Nope.

He's catching eyes everywhere we go. The L'il Guy's uber-cuteness has us the community mesmerized.

Looks like he's a game of his own. ")

*******************

Everyone give a shout out to BirthBlessed, who is the winner of SimplyChurch! As I read her experience of travelling to Paris and Geneva at the age of 11, I thought ~ gee whiz ~ that in and of itself is an eye opener as to the vast creative power of God. And yet, the Lord impacted her world through the life of one who had given his life as a sacrifice in honor of his King. May we all have the same heart attitude.

Everyone's encounters were wonderful to read, some keenly near and dear to my heart . . .

Thank you for participating in this giveaway, as I meander new territory with wacky time frames and wild adventures! ")

Withdrawl

A random act of kindness has left me emotionally bereft.

Therefore, today, a giveaway!

Our neighborhood friends found themselves rained upon via the cave-in of their bathroom ceiling, after the unusual weekend downpour. The automatic response of "yes" to the lending of the ladder and camera to record the damage for insurance purposes was quick and easy . . .

Until I put the device in her hands.

I was suddenly overcome by a strange twinge ~ a sensation of loss marked by separation.

That's weird. I told myself.

"This camera is [almost] my life." I said to her, releasing my grip.

She laughed while I smiled a pained, anxious smile, because she already knew that. She was fully aware. Of course she knows. Silly. I said to myself.

I comforted myself by the knowledge that in less than twenty-four hours I would see her again, and my sidekick would most assuredly be replaced to any one of the myriad of toting spaces in my vicinity, on my personhood.

{enter dramatic music here}

But then came the fateful news: the family had been roused awake repeatedly through the night by a child who had fallen ill. Most assuredly, they would not be attending fellowship, and, alas, my portable photographic device would not be coming home.

Alak and Alas!

I pondered my unusual pang of heart.

Of a certainty, I did not know nor realize just how attached I was to my beloved Canon Sure Shot IS2.

I found myself dying to self in a most unusual way. Surely the crucified life is about so much more than a camera? I thought.

Of course, my dying and death included a host of photographic opportunities, forever missed, because I did the right thing. Sighing deeply to myself, and considering my newly tortured state, I resigned my last living breath of desire associated with my camera to the knowledge that all is not lost:

My camera shall return. My sense of humor is still intact. My confession pure. My friendship solid.

Therefore [Spoken with index finger standing tall and firm, punching the sky before me], I shall live vicariously through a newfound photog fave!

http://www.angelaklocke.com/

And while we all wait, knowing that the crucified life is the best life, we can surf the skill and adept eye of Angela Giles Klocke, who, for the record, provided for me, via her etsy shoppe, an AMAZING set of note cards that [currently] rock my world!

So, my words of wisdom to all today is: Take a moment to stop and smell the roses. (Or at least look at them through the lens of the camera nearest you!)

Today's giveaway: Do you and/or one of yours/a friend or loved one find themselves in need of encouragement? Please allow me. I'd love to brighten the world of those who might be downcast by sending a happie notecard, complete with edifying Scripture as only I can place it, to said such one. If you've never received a note from me, please be assured (I've been told countless times) it is a wonderful thing! ") The bonus? Each handwritten note will be sent on none other than an autographed notecard emblazioned with a photo taken by Angela Giles Klocke!!

(Whew!) THAT was a mouthful!!

Leave a comment today, then, email me at JaJireh [at] yahoo.com with the name, address, and simplified reason why your recipient needs cheering . . .I'll be glad to send some sunshine their way. ")

I'm Stuffed.

I've got so much rattlin' around in my brain on various levels; I've got loads of pictures yet to process and bring you I'm in a quandry. Where do I start? Is it even possible to catch up? Should I try, or start with a fresh sheet of 'from here on out' ideas to share with the blogosphere?

I could use quick speech and say I'm overwhelmed ~ but that's not it . . .I'm just . . .just . . .stuffed!

So I turn to you, my readership. Which cross-section of my varied life would YOU like to hear? What do you want an update on most? Should I chuck all the adventures from the past three weeks or so, and start fresh? What say you?

I think we'll have a little cyber-fun today, with an impromptu give-away associated wtih my blogopheric distress. For everyone who pipes up and gives me direction, I'll send you, via email one of my favorite podcast: The Real Good News: It's Already Finished by Unleavened Bread Ministries.

So, at the ready, readers!

Here are your choices:

1. Konversation Korner (loveable pics from the KBoyz)
2. What? You Had Company And Didn't Tell Me? (Yessiree. Two guests. Two weeks. Egads!)
3. Wait! I Demand More Info On Hollywood! (The saga continues . . .
4. Come On ~ Can't You Focus On The Homefront? (Gil and Angi out on the town.)
5. Where Are The Big Girls? (The life and times of my adult daughters.)
6. I Want Thought-Provoking Insights On The Lord! (I've several as of late . . .)
7. Start Fresh, Girl. You're Overloaded!

To participate in the giveaway, please leave a comment in the comments section, then send an email to JaJireh [at] yahoo.com with the subject line stating, "It's Finished!".

I'll zip you over a great study ~ and we'll all be richer for it!

{sliding in to home base} Whew! Have Ya Missed Me??!?!?

When I noted "sporadic posts" approximately 10 days ago, I did not DREAM that I'd be this lax in bringing a fresh ChoiceCentral update to the blogosphere!

I wish I had time at this moment to begin immediately posting about all the wonderful people that have surrounded me the past two weeks, but, alas . . .I'm off yet again on a valiant ride of fun and fancy with my love ~ the ever-prudent GilGuy! ")

Therefore, I'll post *WINNERS* from last weekends' drawing here, and plan on being back for regular posts on Monday, March 10. How's that for a plan, eh? ") There's much in store: adventures galore; guest posts from Los Angeles, California; a new edition of Konversation Korner and more!! Stay tuned ~

***********

[ahem!]

{drum roll please} for Mary Grace, who has been drawn for the latest, brand new-est Andrew Eastmond cd, Heaven Bound! Andrew had just recorded this album a few weeks ago when we saw him in person:

and ~ Angie, who has been drawn for the latest fab-o read: New Life For Women, by Daisy Washburn Osborn!

Please take a moment to email your physical address to JaJireh at my yahoo.com addy, and your happie will be on it's way to you! YIPPEE! :)

March In Like A Lion . . .

and out as a Lamb.

Familiar phrase? I remember well creating bulletin boards, with this monthly saying on them, for the small country elementary school I attended as a youth .

It was the place where the love of reading was further cemented in me, as the Book Mobile would drive up every other week, and the classes would file out to check out a new swath of reading material. I found it grand and lucious, and the books filled with wonderous things.

Just as I do today.

You know what today is, yes? It is our monthly ChoiceCentral giveaway. ") I've company in my midst, so I'll not fancy this post up with my usual pictoral fare. Here is your challenge to be put in the drawing for an awesome music cd and a terriffic book. (You'll love 'em, I promise! I'll be back later today to give a description of each . . .)

Describe a vivid happie detail about your elementary school experience in the comments section of today's post.

The winner(s) will be posted tomorrow morning! ")

More Bang for Your Buck, Here At ChoiceCentral!

Have you been keeping up? Did YOU read the halarious set of comments that are flying back and forth regarding my cau-cajun te` bebe?

If not, you are missing some of the finest entertainment this side of the ethernet cable! Just for you, here is the latest:

Doug said...
"Get that baby a Saints shirt and put on some Zydeco and make a big Gumbo!!"

Karen said...
"Loved your explanation of your marriage - "Cajun snags Beauty...." Laughed out loud and almost choked on my water! Yup, that's Angi's talk..... Loved it all - But, being from New England and all, just what ARE Crawdads?????(Do I really want to know????)"

Sodini's said...
"So Cau-cajun baby,Would you ask your uncle Doug over there if we might have some jumbalaya with that gumbo, please?"

Doug said...
"To Karen from New England:Before the Cajuns made an Exodus out of Nova Scotia the lobster was a big part of Cajun life. Cajuns loved lobsters. Likewise, the lobsters loved the cajuns. The lobsters loved the Cajuns so much that they followed the Cajuns as they migrated to s.Louisiana. The trip took its toll on the lobsters however and by the time they made it to Louisiana the once 5 to 12 lb lobsters had shrunk down to a miniature version of their former selves and today we call them crawdads today. And so the mutual love of the Cajun and the lobster/crawdad remains.......So everytime you eat a lobster up there in New England....remember the Cajun/Crawdad love story."

Hm. I can't help but wonder . . .maybe it's time Doug got himself a blog? ")

Vote now, in the comments section!

Windows

My son took this photo yesterday.

I find that my expression then reflects perfectly my response now to everyone's cookbook repose in yesterday's drawing. I felt drawn in to a secret place in your heart ~ a window of sorts, into your world . . .those cozy places in the nooks and crannies of your life wherein live warmth and nurture. I read and reread, drinking in the goodness.

I noted familial connections that remain after the passing of loved ones in Karen and Mary Grace' posts: how poignant, indeed! The return to "mamma's best" a common thread in others. The differences in recipe storage, from Beth, Joy, and Joyce and the ever token man-comment from Doug.

So, let's discuss Doug for a moment, shall we? He's really the one to be thanked, since he introduced me to Andrew's minstrel ministry in the first place! [We all need you and appreciate you here at ChoiceCentral, Doug. ]

Thanks for widening my horizons and thoughts about the cookbook connection. I'll never take someone's cookbook for granted again. :)

Without further ado, let's announce the winners! [And for the record, my GilGuy did the drawing honors!!]

*****DING DING DING!!! ANNOUNCEMENT IMMINENT!!****

BETH is the proud owner of Roger Sapp's book!!

and

KAREN is now to delight in Andrew's musical prowess! :)

Congratulations!!

Please email me your physical address, [JaJireh (at) yahoo (dot) com] and your prizes will be on thier way! :)

****End Giveaway Announcement****

Now, if you all will excuse me . . .I'm continuing my day-long date with my Honey. Boxwoods and Shovels come to mind. See ya tomorrow morning, cup of coffee in one hand a a slew of new pics in the other! :)

This Is How Much I Love You

This cookbook is over 20 years old:

It is, hands down, my favorite. Within it's pages are tried and true recipies that have nurtured my family throughout the years. As you can see, it has seen better days. The binding has torn, and pages are flying askew, not to mention, out of order. Stuffed into it's inconsistent numerical order are additional recipie cards, papers, and a multitude of crumbs from recipies gone by:


Yet something else lurks within it's historical pages. A 'something' that might be overlooked, or missed, if one was not aware of the dynamic involved.

It's the presence of love.

Love in the form of handwritten 'notes-to-self' most of them taken while multi-tasking on the phone. A logical record-keeping place in the midst of the hubbub of day to day living.

Love that retains it's position in a home, regardless of the number of 'rearrange the room' sessions, or the number of household moves one takes in the course of a lifetime.

Yes, this is love. A place of warmth and remembrance even though miles separate us.

Yesterday, as I chopped and diced, stirred and baked, I became keenly aware of this love. A way-marker of sorts, of my connection with family.

An old tattered book held my heart gingerly and I fell in love with it all over again.

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February's Fantastic Giveaway is Fabulous! Yet another two favorites of mine, ready to be deposited into your life and heart, making an impact of an eternal kind.

First, for you book worms out there (or those who have a loved one who is in need of healing): This book goes beyond an 'instructional manual'. Roger Sapp digs deep into the ministry of Jesus to bring forward many practical truths about healing. Whether you desire to be used in this area, or simply want to remove doubts from your heart and mind, this book is a terriffic addition to your bookshelf!


Secondly, for you music buffs, yet another edition of Andrew Eastmond. (I simply cannot get enough of this guy . . .the acoustic guitar, the Scripture he brings to life . . .delicious!) The album is entitled Secret Place. You'll LOVE it!

In order to be put in the drawing for these two items, please leave a comment, and tell me the most piognant notation listed on the inside of your favorite cookbook.