I fought the flu and the flu won

Well, I guess it didn't completely win, or I wouldn't be here typing this! However, I'm still not 100 per cent after a five-day bout with the nastiest, most vicious flu bug I've ever done battle with. Any of you out there who've gone through this, you have my deepest empathy. This stuff absolutely kicks your behind!

Just a couple of things to pass along today:

A moving account

Author Jeri Massi shares a moving account of a cancer scare. When Jeri is at her best, her writing feels like a benediction.

Something scary out of NRB...

I've heard this before, but the implications are ominous. The Associated Press reports that at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention in Anaheim, NRB president Frank Wright expressed concerns about efforts to reinstate the so-called "Fairness Doctrine."

The doctrine (repealed in 1987) required broadcasters to give equal time for opposing views on controversial issues. Wright sounds a warning knell about the disastrous effect that this would have on Christian broadcasting...and he says laws concerning hate speech could make it illegal to broadcast the Biblical teachings on things like homosexuality.

Sobering stuff.

Just one Grammy comment...OK, maybe two...

I did see a bit of the Grammies last night before turning in early.

I was really impressed with Alicia Keys...I thought her solo performance was powerful, and I liked her duet with Jamie Foxx.

But what was up with the duet between Jennifer Lopez and her husband, Marc Anthony? Granted, Marc can sing. But I thought the whole thing was overwrought and pretentious, and JLo's voice seemed to be going flat several times. It was like she couldn't handle a song that required some vocal chops.

Criticizing Kinkade?

I'm no art critic...I tend to be drawn to things just because I think they're purty. :)

But Joe Carter at The Evangelical Outpost has some interesting observations about the works of Thomas Kinkade, the so-called "Painter of Light."

I don't own any of Kinkade's paintings, but I've seen several that appeal to me strongly simply because of the beauty of the scenes. And there's something to be said for spreading loveliness around.

But Joe does have some intriguing comments. Doubtless a talented painter, is Kinkade selling himself short now in the interest of appealing to the consumer? I had never seen the samples of his earlier work, and they really are very cool. They seem to convey more raw feeling and less polished fantasy, without sacrificing any of the appealing beauty. At least, in my humble opinion.

Quote o' The Day

"Some bloggers blog for fun, some blog to promote a political or personal agenda, and still others blog because they have nothing better to do. Then, there are those who write because they believe that it just might make a difference. As observed, Luther had his printing press, and us modern day Reformers have our DSL’s. Perhaps it is naïve to believe that people will change the way they live because of God-honoring bloggers, but who would’ve thought a little script with 95 points would change Christendom from here on out?"--Amy of Amy's Humble Musings, winner of Best New Evangelical Blog

That Michael W. Smith endures!

From the time Michael W. Smith burst onto the Christian music scene with his Project in 1983, I knew he was special. I don't think I would have predicted that 22 years down the road, he would be the enduring Christian music icon that he is today.

With 40 Dove awards, two Grammys and an American Music Award already in his possession, Smith now leads this year's Dove Awards nominations with eight, including artist and song of the year for "Healing Rain."

Smith told Associated Press that he's "surprised and grateful to receive so many Dove nominations, especially with the emergence
of many new acts in recent years."

I've heard a few radio insiders grumble that long-time established award winners like Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman
should move out of the way and let the newer, younger acts have the awards spotlight.

Of course, there are those who decry awards shows for Christian music anyway--that's a whole 'nother subject in itself.


Me and Michael W. at GMA, 2002

Whatever. I think Smitty and SCC endure because they have enormous musical talent and real, genuine hearts for God. I've had the privilege of meeting and interviewing both of them more than once, and what you see is what you get. These guys are real.

No, Smitty doesn't have the most awesome voice in music. He's no Andrea Bocelli or Josh Groban. What he DOES have is the ability to craft a beautiful and enduring song, and I believe some of his creations will grace hymnbooks for years after all of us are gone.

What's your favorite Michael W. Smith song or album? Let me know in my comments section.

Oh, and that reminds me...

I'm going to Nashville!



As I did last year, I'm hosting a tour to Nashville April 12-15, with the highlight being the Gospel Music Association Music Awards (commonly known as the Doves.)

We take a nice coach down to Music City USA, and enjoy a few nights' stay at a nice hotel and tours of places like the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame, plus seeing our own 101QFL DJ's broadcasting live from the Gospel Music Associaiton Convention at the Renaissance Hotel.

It's a blast, and you can go too for 429.00 (based on double occupancy.) We leave from Rockford on Tuesday morning, April 12th.

I am SO looking forward to this!

I finally watched "The Village"

Well, I must stink as a movie critic, because I LIKED IT. So sue me.

I've read some pretty vicious reviews of M. Night Shymalan's The Village. Phrases like "complete and utter garbage," "heavyhanded to the point of amateurish," and "abysmal piece of trash" were just some of the phrases I unearthed.

Although admittedly it doesn't touch Shymalan's masterpiece, The Sixth Sense, I found it intriguing and interesting, and Bryce Dallas Howard (who happens to be director Ron Howard's daughter) was really wonderful in it.

(By the way, I was wondering when we'd get to see Howard in something else, and I understand that she's slated to play Mary Stuart of Scotland in "Mary Queen of Scots," planned for a 2006 release.)

So, my teen-age daughter says she figured out the twist early on. It took me a little longer. And although it won't go on my list of all-time favorite movies, I have to say I tend to agree more with this reviewer.

And you know what? It was kinda nice to watch a movie that wasn't a minefield of f-bombs and sexual vulgarity.

One of my favorite authors has started a fiction critique service

Lisa Samson, who has long been one of my favorite writers and bloggers, is now offering (for a fee) a fiction critique service.

What an invaluable service...makes me wish I had a work-in-progress now that I could shoot her way. Says Lisa: "...It includes help in areas such as plot difficulties, believability, character development and pacing.

"It will also provide a writing overview. Suggestions, when employed, that will help smooth out the rough places and help you submit a polished piece."

A drawing you may want to enter...



Feel free to use my referral ID number: 32111.

Has anyone else noticed this strange Blogger italics glitch?

I don't know if it's only with this template, but when you put anything in italics, it will NOT allow a space before the next word.

Like this:

I don't know if it's only with this template, but when you put anything in italics, it will not allow a space before the next word.

Anyone else noticed this? I've seen it in other Blogger blogs as well. Drives me crazy.



Must...have...fiction....

I haven't read a fiction book in a while, and I'm freaking out. Robin Lee Hatcher sent me Catching Katie and Beyond the Shadows; I read Catching Katie and have misplaced the other book! That's not surprising, since I'm in the midst of moving to another house, and I'm in that awful limbo.

So I guess this is my sign. Finish packing already, and stop taking time to read. Eeesh!!! Easier said than done. :)

Friday stuff

Hat tip to Steve Beard of Thunderstruck for a couple of interesting reads:

--Doubting Darwin--a Newsweek article about the intelligent design theory

--Chill, blogophiles; you're not the first to do what you're doing --a USA Today story about how blogging has been around in one form or another for hundreds of years

Basically, I'm just really impressed with Thunderstruck--it's rich with links to all kinds of news that's pertinent to Christians today.

The Joni Interview

I'm happy to say that AP's Religion Roundup has picked up a story I wrote based on the interview with Joni Eareckson Tada, along with soundbites. Religion Roundup is a service to AP-subscribing radio stations.

Some of your comments have reflected the impact Joni has made in your lives. Imagine if she had succumbed to her initial depression and gone the way of assisted suicide! Instead, well over 30 years of outstanding ministry conducted from a wheelchair, and countless lives touched and blessed.

Have a blessed weekend, everyone!

My interview with Joni Eareckson Tada: The danger of "Million Dollar Baby"

It concerns me deeply that now we live in a culture which capitalizes on that depression and reinforces to people like myself that "you're better off dead than disabled." That's unfortunate, that's sad, that is evil.--Joni Eareckson Tada

CINDY: An organization called Not Dead Yet has this to say on their website: "Since 1983, many people with disabilities have opposed the assisted suicide and euthanasia movement. Though often described as compassionate, legalized medical killing is really about a deadly double standard for people with severe disabilities, including both conditions that are labeled terminal and those that are not."

Well, nowadays people with disabilities are fighting a battle for their very lives, and it seems assisted suicide and euthanasia are getting some of their best PR from Hollywood movies.

In the movies nominated for Oscars this month, at least three have disturbing elements for people who are pro-life.

And I'm honored today to have as my guest someone who is very qualified to speak to these issues. She is Christian writer and speaker Joni Eareckson Tada. Joni, welcome to the show.

JONI: Well Cindy, thanks for welcoming me, and of course a special good morning to everybody listening there in the Rockford area.

CINDY: Well, I'm so delighted to be able to talk to you, Joni, because I've followed your ministry for so many years, dating back to reading your book and even seeing your movie years ago. It's just an honor and a delight for me to talk with you today.

JONI: Well, thank you also for highlighting some of the comments from the website of "Not Dead Yet." These are a group of disability advocates that serve as watchdogs for many of us in the disability community regarding national issues which threaten the livelihood of people with disabilities like myself, and I'm just grateful that you mentioned them.

CINDY: Well, I was led to their website while doing research for comments about this movie that we're going to talk about later on. I read a really excellent movie review on that site had some great things to say. If people would like to read it, I believe they can go to Not Dead Yet and check that out.

You know, Joni, it seems hard to believe that anyone in the Christian community wouldn't know who you are, but for those who might not...just tell us a little about yourself and your background, and what qualifies you to speak to these issues.

JONI: Cindy, I can hardly believe I'm coming up on 38 years of living life as a quadriplegic. Back in 1967, as a young teenager, I took a reckless dive into some shallow water that crushed my vertebrae and my neck, and that left me floating face down in the water,unable to move, unable to breathe. Thankfully, my sister pulled me up out of the water. They rushed me off to a hospital, where the doctors told me that I would be totally and completely paralyzed from the shoulders down for the rest of my life.

"I begged my friends to aid me in suicide"

I was so depressed, so discouraged...and when I was even brave enough to think about living life sitting in a wheelchair for the rest of my life, without use of my hands, I begged my friends to aid me in suicide. I asked them to bring in their mothers' sleeping pills, their father's razor blades, anything to put me out of my misery. I'm just so glad, Cindy, that there weren't any Jack Kevorkians around 38 years ago when I was in the hospital, because I would have taken advantage back then of the depression and the suicidal despair that I was steeped in.

CINDY: Joni, I get emotional just thinking about what a tragedy that would have been. I know what you suffered in your own life was a tragedy, but when I think about the immense good that you've done for the kingdom in the past 38 years, it just boggles my mind to think that that couldn't have happened if you had decided to go ahead and take your own life.

JONI: I think it underscores, Cindy, that people with severe injuries like mine--It's expected that we need to go through a little depression, my goodness! My problem really wasn't my quadriplegia so much as it was
the clinical depression, and that's what most people with disabilities, when they first get a bad medical report or first are injured, all people with severe injuries go through a time of grief and loss and depression.

Better off dead than disabled?

It concerns me deeply that now we live in a culture which capitalizes on that depression and reinforces to people like myself that "you're better off dead than disabled." That's unfortunate, that's sad, that is evil.

CINDY: I agree totally. And one of the reasons that I wanted to contact you, Joni, is I wanted to get your comments and your insight about a movie that is out right now, that has received huge kudos and acclaim from Hollywood. It's up for several Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor and Best Actress, and the Golden Globes honored it for various things as well.

Movie "spoiler"

Now, this is going to be a spoiler for people for people who haven't seen "Million Dollar Baby," so let me warn you in advance if you don't want to find out...but the truth is, a lot of people who have seen the movie wish that someone had warned them in advance, and "spoiled" the movie for them so that they would know what they were really getting into.

I've seen the trailer for the movie, and it looks like this inspiring, Rocky-type story about a young woman who becomes a boxer against all odds, and a heartwarming fatherly-daughterly situation between her and her trainer, that sort of thing, And I really thought, "Wow, that looks like a good movie, really inspiring and heartwarming!" It's even been called "Rocky in a sports bra" actually by some people.

But what they don't know is that about two-thirds of the way through the movie it, in essence, becomes a great big commercial for euthanasia, for assisted suicide.

And the rest of the movie deals with the fact of this young woman suffering a terrible blow to the head, and she wants to die. And as I understand it, really the way that it's treated, is very damaging to the prolife community. Why are movies like this so damaging in your eyes, Joni?

"To help a quadriplegic kill herself is not an expression of love"

JONI: Well, they're damaging because we live in a culture that is highly susceptible to these kinds of messages. Our society constantly bombards us with media propaganda and our culture, again, is particularly media-sensitive. We listen, we look to the commercials, we are guided by the movies. And directors and producers in Hollywood, they're not dummies...they make movies to make a political point. In fact, it's happening more now in the last five to ten years than it ever was when I was a kid and saw "The Sound of Music," or "Music Man," or any of those movies that were so popularly entertaining many years ago; no, today, movies are made for a political point.

And what troubles me about the movie you've described, "Million Dollar Baby," starring Clint Eastwood and Hilary Swank, is that it uses this syrupy kind of romanticism to disguise the main premise that, well, that people are better off dead than disabled.

To help a quadriplegic kill herself is not an expression of love, although that is what is underscored in the film; no, to help a quadriplegic kill herself is a demonstration of contempt and fear. And I believe it's dangerous because it reinforces a movie-goer's fundamental fears of disability.

We see this man aid a young injured woman in killing herself, and we think to ourselves, "Well, I wouldn't want to live like that....I wouldn't want to live as a quadriplegic." So, a movie like this influences us and pressures us into believing that a wheelchair is a fate worse than death.

CINDY: Joni, say this movie was not a movie, but it was real, and there was really this young woman, and she really did suffer this terrible blow, and she really did want to die, and you were able to talk to her. What would you have said to her?

JONI: Well, I would tell her that number one, to be depressed is understandable. Sometimes you just want to know that somebody else understand, somebody else empathizes. It's why we've got our ministry at Joni and Friends. We minister to people like this all the time. Most of these people we have a chance to encourage and uplift and inspire, and connect them with good churches.

"Christianity with our sleeves rolled up"

Most of these individuals we have a chance to resource, and provide some financial assistance, or or get them involved in a community service organization that meets the needs of people with disabilities.

But sometimes there are people who don't. This morning... I was writing an e-mail to a woman in Annapolis who is about my age, and she's quadriplegic and she's stuck in a nursing home surrounded by people in their 80's and 90's, and for her it's very depressing. And we are working hard to alert churches in the Annapolis area of this woman's needs.

This is what we need to do as Christians. We need to not only declare the love of Jesus, we need to practice that Christianity with our sleeves rolled up and go visit people such as this young woman.

These are the kind of people who live in the Rockford area....We can make a huge difference in giving hope, encouragement, inspiration, and virtue and courage to face the future. But we've got to do it by being hands of Jesus Christ in the lives of these people.

CINDY: Tell me about Joni and Friends. That's pretty much what your organization is all about, isn't it?

JONI: It is, and you know what, Cindy? In the Chicago area, just east of Chicago, this summer we will hold two fantastic retreats for people affected by disability. This woman in the movie "Million Dollar Baby," somebody like her, that's the kind of people we want to get to our family retreats.

So if you know of somebody in the listening area that you believe is severely disabled and depressed, then please tell them about our family retreat, and work with us in providing some financial assistance to that person to attend our family retreat in the Chicago area. And people can just go on line at www.joniandfriends.org/retreat and get all the details about what's happening in the greater Chicago area.

CINDY: We will definitely direct people to that site. And Joni, didn't you at one point write a book about euthanasia, is that still available?

JONI: Well, we do have some copies available at our ministry, and people can go online and visit our products page, but unfortunately it's out of print. Euthanasia is not a subject that many people enjoy reading about.

Killing in the name of compassion?

But I just want to say, Cindy, that I am so frustrated that our culture continues to promote the premise that if you love somebody, you're free to kill them, all in the name of compassion.

Our adversary is the devil, and he is a liar, who tries to convince us that our life is not worth living; and he is a murderer, in that he promotes euthanasia. (In fact, we are combatting right now a physician-assisted suicide bill, that is going before our California assembly this spring; we're working in opposition against it.) And he is a deceiver, in that he tries to change the meaning of the word "compassion" to mean three grams of phenobarbitol in the veins. And I believe that the devil is trying to deceive people with this movie, "Million Dollar Baby."

I blog, therefore I am

If you're a blogger, admit it: you've thought about, wondered about, ruminated on, why you blog.

Debra, who's As I See It Now is graced with lovely nostalgic photographs and beautifully-written thoughts, has been writing about this very subject. The comments people have left in response are just as enlightening.

I've been caught up lately in the quest to increase my readership, but Debra has the right perspective on readership stats: "... you see, my stats counter--all those numbers--are rather like seeds in the Bible's parable of the sower of the seeds. To me, each number represents a valuable life--the heart of a seed, if you will. And well, when I see the seeds pouring in, I pray for them--that they will fall upon fertile soil and grow strong, tall and free.

"So that is why the numbers matter to me. Each number represents a beating heart, one which matters indescribably to God."

Blogging our hearts out?

And while we're on the subject, via Joy of Karagraphy, a look at why we blog, particularly young adults. Jeremy Huggins tackles the subject in depth in Blogging Our Hearts Out.

So why do I blog?

For me, it's relatively simple (although I confess I never foresaw that I would be so concerned about increasing readership!)

Bene Diction Blogs On asked the same question not long ago, and this was my reply then:

"Well, in my case, it helps satisfy a need for written self-expression that has been a part of me since I first learned to string together sentences on paper. Writing has always been an outlet for me.

"An outlet, but not always necessarily a private one. As a radio personality, I enjoy interaction with listeners. As a news announcer, I enjoy imparting information to people that they might not otherwise hear. As a blogger, I find my self eager to share things with my readers--fun stuff, trivia, my thoughts and opinions on books, music, entertainment, politics, faith.

"When I read or hear or experience something, I want to share it. Sharing it in writing is fun and enjoyable for me.

"I suppose that, in a nutshell, is why I blog. I want to write for others to read, and this is the easiest way I know how."

Just interviewed Joni Eareckson Tada about "Million Dollar Baby"

"I am so frustrated that our culture continues to promote the premise that if you love somebody, you're free to kill them, all in the name of compassion. That is detestable and hateful. Our adversary is the devil, and he is a liar, who tries to convince us that our life is not worth living; and he is a murderer, in that he promotes euthanasia...and he is a deceiver, in that he tries to change the meaning of the word 'compassion' to mean three grams of phenobarbitol in the veins."--Joni Eareckson Tada

That's an excerpt of my interview with Joni, which I hope to have transcripted and on the blog shortly.

Most people in the Christian community are familiar with Joni's story. As a teen-ager, she injured her head in a diving accident, leaving her paralyzed from the neck down.

Joni tells me that the depression and despondency following her accident prompted her to plead with her friends to help her end her life. Thankfully, that didn't happen, and this remarkable woman has triumphed over incredible odds to become a voice for the disabled (with her Joni and Friends ministry), an artist and a prolific writer of inspiring books.

Heads up: Movie spoiler:

The movie Million Dollar Baby, starring Clint Eastwood and Hilary Swank is in the running for Oscar gold, having already been adored by critics and lauded by the Golden Globes.

But many moviegoers are sucker-punched (forgive the boxing pun) when they find out that the inspiring, heartwarming "Rocky-in-a-sports-bra" story they were expecting, turns into a hope-less treatise on assisted suicide.

Joni had some things to say about "Million Dollar Baby" and why she thinks Hollywood's take on euthanasia is so damaging. I ended the interview with even more respect and admiration for this lovely and amazing woman.

I'm going to believe Jimmy the Groundhog!

Well, I'm not actually going to believe him...more like hope he's right.

Headquartered in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, Jimmy is a lot closer to me than Punxsatawney Phil, who lives in Pennsylvania. Phil saw his shadow this morning...Jimmy didn't. Which according to weather lore, means if Jimmy's right, we'll have an early spring.

Of course, it's all nonsense. Spring will actually arrive around March 21st, regardless of what rodents see or don't see their shadow--and I've no doubt we'll see all kinds of weather before we get to that date. But it gives me a little shred of hope to cling to.

I can't mention Groundhog Day without thinking of the movie of the same name, starring Bill Murray and Andie McDowell...one of my very favorite funny movies ever.

It's about a weatherman who is kind of a jerk, who keeps re-living Groundhog Day over and over. Finally he learns some important, life-changing lessons.

Love how every morning when his alarm goes off, Sonny and Cher's "I Got You Babe" is playing...

Christian Carnival is up...

The Christian Carnival is up at Wittenberg Gate...go and check it out. I actually remembered to submit a post this time!

Submitting a post is a good way to give your blog some exposure, and find out about other people's blogs as well.

Michael Easley to be new MBI president...

Moody Bible Institute officials announced last night that 47-year-old Virginia pastor Michael Easley will succeed Joe Stowell as president of the college.

From the MBI site: "Dr. Easley is a gifted Bible teacher and church leader. His passion for ministry, heart for people and love for God are the hallmark qualities that have distinguished MBI presidents for 119 years."

Read more in this Chicago Tribune article.

Sad about Sammy Sosa

I'll admit it, I'm not the biggest sports buff in the world. My sons have told me I shouldn't do two things: rap, or talk about sports. I come off sounding a little silly when I do either of those things.

But I can't let the fact of Sammy Sosa leaving the Chicago Cubs go by unnoticed. I've been married to a die-hard (and I do mean die-hard) Cubs fan for nearly 27 years; been the mother of two Cubs fans for almost that long. I'd have to be a zombie for some of that Cub fan-dom not to rub off on me at least a little bit.

When I first started blogging in October of 2003, the Cubs were on the brink of going to the World Series, and I was at the height of my fairweather-fan-ness. I even blogged about my disappointment when they didn't make it.

Though most of the time I can take or leave baseball, I have not been immune to the little thrill of hope that always occurred whenever Sammy stepped up to the plate. I've been there in the stands at Wrigley Field, feeling that excited anticipation. So, yes, I am sad that he won't end his career in a Cubs uniform.

Others think it's past time for him to go.

My son Jonathan has been mulling the Sammy trade in his blog: "Sammy could get into real great shape and put together some monster years, but he won't. Sammy lacks respect and understanding for the game, his own team, and his own legacy, and for that reason he deserves no respect and understanding in return."

In a later post, Jon said he may have been a bit harsh: "He could come back this year for the O's and really prove me wrong. I really hope he doesn't."

And hat tip to Jonathan for this Gene Wojciechowski article about Sammy.

April will come again (may it be soon, Lord!), and spring will return to Wrigley Field. Sammy won't be there. But my husband and sons and a million other fans will still be watching and hoping...and life will go on.

Other stuff:

Potty rooms in Illinois and Wisconsin are in the running for America's Best Restroom. Last year, one of our neighbors to the north was the winner of the contest...the Kohler Arts Center in Sheboygan.

This year, the Red Light Restaurant in Chicago and Renee's Red Rooster and Sunset Grill in Stevens Point, Wisconsin are among the finalist. You can go to the site and vote it you like!

Cincinnati-based Cintas is presenting the award for the fourth year. From the site:
"It is a very private experience that happens in public places all over the world. Whether at a restaurant or a rest area, a high-rise office building or a 'nice clean gas station,' everyone at some point makes use of public facilities.

"The reality is that public restrooms matter to the public. The way a business or building treats its facilities is a reflection of its operating standards."

Well, I'm all for clean restrooms!

Moody says farewell to Dr. Joseph Stowell



AP's Religion Roundup reports that students, faculty and alumni paid tribute to departing Moody Bible Institute president Dr. Joseph Stowell in a service last night.

Stowell (who happens to be a Cedarville University alum) has served as MBI president for 18 of the college's 119-year history. I've been blessed by listening to Stowell early in the morning on his Proclaim radio broadcast, and also in person at a 2003 Rekindling the Romance seminar. I like his calm, wise, practical and humorous demeanor.

Stowell's leaving to be a teaching pastor at Harvest Bible Chapel near Chicago. His successor is to be announced later today.

(For more on the transition, read here. )

A must-read

Be sure and check out The Wittenberg Gate today...Dory's Worldview Test is not to be missed.

Sometimes this radio gig is pretty cool

A major plus: getting to interview and/or meet cool people.

Today, Dr. Emerson Eggerichs stopped in the studio for an interview promoting his upcoming Love and Respect marriage conference in March at Rockford's First Assembly of God church.

I had heard great things about Emerson, and he was so personable and charming. Plus, he kindly autographed a copy of his book, Love and Respect: The Love She Most Desires, the Respect He Desperately Needs,for me. I'll definitely be reading it. The premise makes a lot of sense to me...that women need to feel loved most, and men need to feel respected most.

Last week, I interviewed Patti Hill, author of Like a Watered Garden, which I reviewed here not long ago. It was great talking to Patti and hearing about the journey that led her to write and publish her first novel.

By the way, I was very pleased to see that Infuze Magazine used my review of "Like a Watered Garden"...check it out. Infuze is a very cool online magazine; one of the staffers is Julie Anne Fidler of Fidler on the Roof.

I just did an interview today with Robin Lee Hatcher. I had heard of Robin, but didn't really become familiar with her until I started visiting her blog, which is excellent. I just finished Robin's Catching Katie, and can't wait to start Beyond the Shadows.

Robin and I had a great talk. I'll put transcripts of my interviews with Patti and Robin here on my blog in the near future.

More blog names I love...

Cool and clever blog titles:

Blogin' Idiot
Weapon of Mass Distraction
Dead Man Blogging

If you know of any cool, funny or clever blog names, feel free to note them in my comments section.

Oh, and happy Monday, everyone...

Happy Friday!

Disjointed ramblings on my favorite day of the week:

Just as fun and addictive as the real thing: Virtual Bubble Wrap....

Check out the nominations in The First Evangelical Blog Awards at the Evangelical Outpost....

Some blog names are so stinking clever. Here are just a few cool/clever titles I love:

Amish Fight Club
ASLAN IS ON THE MOVE
A Face Made 4 Radio, A Voice Made 4 the Internet

Got any favorites you'd care to add? I'm not talking content, just the sheer cleverness of the title!

Hollywood doesn't get religion

If, like me and Dave at the silent fool, you're still annoyed that The Passion of the Christ didn't get more Oscar props--even though you really didn't expect it to--check out this thoughtful Michael Medved editorial (hat tip to Thunderstruck.)

Rolling Stone may be the least of TNIV's worries...

Earlier this week, it was reported that Rolling Stone magazine reversed an earlier decision, and will allow Zondervan's ads for Today's New International Version of the Bible in its pages.

However, while the TNIV is endorsed by the likes of Willow Creek's Bill Hybels, , Lee Strobel, John Stott and Peter Furler of the Newsboys, some Bible scholars and others are seriously questioning the faithfulness of the translation.

The Southern Baptist Convention's 2002 national meeting rejected the TNIV New Testament, and AP's Religion Roundup today reports that the Southern Baptist-affiliated Lifeway Christian Bookstores will not be carrying the version.

According to this World Magazine article, "The major difference between Today's New International Version and yesterday's NIV, the most widely used contemporary Bible translation (which will still be available), is that the new translation features 'inclusive language.' That is, many words referring to the male gender (the generic 'he,' 'father,' 'brothers') will be changed to also include the female gender ('they,' 'parent,' 'brothers and sisters').

"The TNIV publicists, in a bit of Orwellian doublespeak, are calling such revisions 'gender-accurate' language. The problem, however, comes when the language is not accurate to the original text."

And at this site, Christian pastors, teachers and luminaries such as Chuck Swindoll, Dr. D. James Kennedy, Dr. James Dobson, Elisabeth Elliot Gren, John MacArthur and others have signed a statement saying they cannot endorse the TNIV.

Meantime, this long list of theologians, pastors and others are giving their enthusiastic endorsement to the version.

Interesting.

For more info, here's more on why the Southern Baptists object to the TNIV.

(Many thanks to Phil Johnson of The Spurgeon Archive for providing me with several of the TNIV-related links.)

A whole lotta bloggin' goin' on...

I'm happy to report that my blog is now part of Women4God Blogs, which bills itself as "a collection of diverse Christian blogs by Protestant (Evangelical) women from around the globe." If you're interested in joining, instructions are at the site.

Another friend of mine joins the blogosphere...

My dear friend Don Elbourne chose his birthday, January 24th (which he notes that some professor has designated "the most depressing day of the year") to launch his blog, Locusts and Wild Honey.

Writes Don: "With my feet firmly planted on the bridge and and sappy melodrama flowing onto my keyboard, I plunge headlong into the blogosphere on my thirty-seventh birthday. I doubt I’ll make much of a splash, but want to use this site to record some of my thoughts, highlight my interests, chronicle my studies, and interact with the world outside of my little pool. I look forward to the new adventure."

Don is a Baptist pastor, gifted writer, photographer, and computer whiz who is working toward his PhD in Biblical Studies. I'm indebted to him for designing my website.

More about movies

The 10 Most Redeeming Films

Via Sherry at Semicolon: Christianity Today's 10 Most Redeeming Films of 2004.

Sorry to say, I've just seen two of them: The Passion of the Christ and Spiderman 2.

I actually just saw Spiderman 2 with my daughter the other night, and absolutely loved it. Tobey Maguire is a wonderful actor--his emotions play out so beautifully on that cute, sweet face of his.

Good to see that Hotel Rwanda, which is getting a good share of Oscar recognition, is considered a redeeming film by Christianity Today: "Like Schindler's List, it's a sobering story. But it is also inspiring. It reminds us how evil rises incrementally, and how vigilant we must be in order to resist it. It stirs us to show courageous mercy, to err on the side of urgent love rather than hesitate and pay the price."

I've been wanting to see Finding Neverland and The Incredibles. Can anyone comment on these (or any of the other "redeeming films") for me?

"Passion's" composer is thankful for the Oscar nod...

AP's Religion Roundup reports today that "The Passion of the Christ's" score composer, John Debney, is pleased with his Oscar nomination, saying he's "very happy for Mel," and pointing out that Mel Gibson didn't take out ads soliciting Oscar nominations: "The fact that it's gotten three nominations
bodes very well for the academy and being able to sort of look at
the work as professional work."

"Passion" was nominated for best cinematography, makeup and original score.

And yes, there WAS a surprise in the Oscar nominations...

Contrary to my post title yesterday, there was a surprising absence in the Oscar nominations.

Scott of The Crusty Curmudgeon rightly points out in my comments section: "Actually, there was one Oscar surprise: nothing for Fahrenheit 9/11, which has been the darling of all the other competitions this year."

You know, that is pretty amazing.

No big surprises from Oscar

Nominations are out today, and they're heavy on The Aviator, Sideways, Ray, Million Dollar Baby and Finding Neverland.

I wouldn't have been surprised if The Passion of the Christ was snubbed completely, but it did garner three: for cinematography, musical score and makeup. If you ask me, Jim Caviezel and Mel Gibson were robbed as far as best actor and director. Actually, the movie should also be up for best picture. But we all knew that wasn't going to happen.

Speaking of movies...

Via Scott of The Crusty Curmudgeon, the list of the Bottom 100 Movies of All Time. Scott's seen six of them. I've only seen one: Tarzan, the Ape Man. Do I have good taste or what? :)

How many have you seen?

Happy Birthday, Robert Burns

I admit it. When I was a teenager and going through my "poetry phase," I had something of a crush on Robert Burns.

Didn't matter that he lived in 1700's Scotland, and I lived in 1970's USA. Judging by his portraits, the dude was a hottie.

I'm honestly not crazy about his poetry...who can decipher lines like "For ae blink o' bonie burdies! But wither'd beldams, auld and droll, Rigwoodie hags wad spean a foal, Louping an' flinging on a crummock, I wonder did na turn thy stomach..."

And I cringe a bit when I read that he fathered 13 children, in AND out of wedlock....eeesh.

But harboring a lifelong fascination with all things Scottish, I enjoyed Georgette Braun's article about Burns and local celebrations of his birthday in today's Rockford Register Star. Burns societies are alive and well, even here in the midwestern United States in 2005...so he must have had something going for him.

Not only that, but a movie about him is in the works, and it's going to star Gerard Butler, the Phantom of The Phantom of the Opera movie. (That bit of casting alone is a selling point as far as I'm concerned.)

Robert Burns, 1759-1796. Happy birthday, Rabbie...you've definitely endured.

Are you alive because abortion was illegal?

A simple personal observation about Roe-vs.-Wade from Rae at A Likely Story grabbed me with its quiet eloquence.

And here, another touching story about a life that almost didn't happen.

Another fun quiz!

Found this one through Julie of Fidler On the Roof...

Teh Souper Rhodamine FunQuizz
When was the last time you danced all night?	Never have...am I deprived?
What was the last zoo you went to?	San Antonio
What was your fav animule there?	koala bears
What's your favorite landmark in the world?	The Statue of Liberty
Do you like overalls? why?	No, not on me...I'm just not an overall kind of person
Who is the cutest person in your life? why?	My 3-year-old niece Channing...she's just adorable
Scorching, humid summer or painfully cold blizzard?	Neither--but if I really have to choose, scorching summer...at least you don't have to mess with coats
Whats your favorite beer?	n/a
Whats your favorite boardgame?	Trivial Pursuit
Whats your favorite work of art?	Don't have just one favorite...I like Monet and Mary Cassatt
What's your least favorite song?	"Imagine," by John Lennon. Yecch.
When was the last time you cooked something from scratch?	Sunday before last
What did you cook?	Does French Toast casserole count as "from scratch"?
What's the weirdest thing thats ever happened to you?	Hmm...nothing comes to mind right now
Whats your most irrational fear?	That when I get up to sing in front of the church, I'll trip and fall and show my underwear
Briefly describe your strangest dream:	I've had lots of strange ones, but can't think of one in particular right now
What's something you know about that not many other people do?	Calligraphy
What's something about you that not many people know?	I was part of a group of fifth-grade students who interviewed John Glenn in 1967
Do you like cucumbers?	Love 'em...especially with balsamic vinegar and salt
How many digits of Pi do you have memorized?	I know nothing at all about Pi
If forced to choose, would you rather be blind or deaf?	Oh, hard one...I love music so much...but I would hate not to be able to see...I guess deaf
Whats the most interesting book youve ever read?	The Bible...it's amazing
What's your least favorite movie?	"Godzilla"--I wouldn't watch that if you paid me
If I could do one thing for you, what would it be?	Give me an all expenses paid trip to England, Ireland and Scotland
If you could live in any time-period, when would it be?	probably this one...I just like the modern conveniences too much
Sweet or sour?	It depends. Sometimes sweet AND sour.
What's the worst thing about NYC?	That it's too far away for me to visit on a regular basis
Whats the worst thing about your town?	That it's too far away from my mom
Whats the happiest thing you can think of?	Having all my children under one roof with me
CREATE YOUR OWN! - or - GET PAID TO TAKE SURVEYS!

Million Dollar Rip-off?

Far be it from me to "spoil" a movie that has a great big hidden twist. BUT...after reading the article in USA Today about Million Dollar Baby, I was curious.

I had seen the trailer and thought how heartwarming and inspiring the movie looked--Clint Eastwood a father-figure trainer to against-all-odds female boxer Hilary Swank--and even commented to friends and relatives that I'd like to see the movie.

Well, not any more. In USA Today, conservative film critic Michael Medved says, "It is dishonest in its marketing. They didn't want to tell people what it is because no one would come."

I was curious enough that I went to conservative commentator Debbie Schlussel's website and read her whole article about the movie, spoilers and all.

After reading it, I agree with the person who emailed Dan Kaiser of The Movie Spoiler: "To keep something that totally changes what the film is about hidden like that, to me, is deceiving. If they had that in the preview, I would not want to see it. I would have been so angry had I spent my money."

I won't be seeing this movie, either.

Happy Friday to all...

The Christian Carnival is up at Sidesspot. If you're not familiar with the Carnival, it's a great tool to give your blog a little exposure. You can enter a post that will be linked on whoever's blog happens to be hosting that week. It's also a great way to familiarize yourself with other great blogs.

Patriot Paradox has a continually updated list of upcoming hosts on his sidebar.

It's been a long time since I've taken the Fridays Feast Quiz...

So here goes (answer the questions here in my comments section, or on your own blog):

Appetizer - What is one quality you really admire about yourself?--Hmmm...well, I'm not really into self-admiration. But I think I'm a pretty loving mother.

Soup - What kind of shampoo and conditioner do you use?--It varies...I'm always looking for new ways to tame my curly mane. Right now I'm using something called Farouk BioSilk. Elizabeth and I are both VERY pleased with these products (we've been using the shampoo, conditioner, glazing gel and silk therapy.) But I find it helps if you change things up every now and then, so I will sometimes switch to Matrix Sleek.Look or Graham Webb products, which I also really like. And on a regular basis, to control a tendency to dandruff and itchy scalp, I use Pantene Pro V Anti-Dandruff shampoo, which I highly recommend if you have that kind of problem.

Salad - Describe your favorite movie scene. You know, the one that just gets to you every time you watch it.--There are many, but one that immediately comes to mind is when Jimmy Stewart is standing on the bridge in "It's a Wonderful Life," and he begs God to let him live again. Then it starts snowing and ZuZu's petals are back in his pocket...gets me every time!

Main Course - If you were a veggie, which one would you be, and why?
A tomato? I dunno...that's a hard one!

Dessert - If you could take a weekend trip within 100 miles of your current residence, where would you like to go?--Without a doubt, Chicago. I love, love, LOVE Chicago!!! It is without question one of the coolest cities in the world.

Here's another fun thing to do on a snowy Friday...

Via Lisa Samson, anagram your name.

Here are some of the anagrams you can create from "Cindy Swanson":

CANDY IN SNOWS
CANDY SIN SOWN
CANDY SINS WON

Does this mean I'm going to get victory over candy? I hope so...

Here's another:

NANCYS SID NOW

Wasn't there a movie called "Sid and Nancy" about punk rocker Sid Vicious? Hmmm...

AND NYC IS SOWN
AND NYC IS SNOW

I like New York City. Well, it goes on and on...strange but interesting.

All right, I admit it...

Yeah, I was plopped down on the sofa in front of the American Idol season opener last night. What's more, I enjoyed every minute of it--from wincing through some of the most awful singing I've ever heard in my life, to already starting to pull for a few of the hopefuls, to cracking up laughing at the unintentional humor of contestants like Toni Braxton's cousin Derek (what a strange singing voice!) and the delusional Mary Roach.

I have to agree with MSNB's Andy Denhart's article: Is this for real? "Are they putting us on?

"There are four possibilities here: Mary’s friends really do think she’s a good singer; her friends are liars; she’s in desperate need of professional help; she’s an improvisational actor or a radio-station intern pulling one over on the judges and on us.

"The only remotely palatable option is the last one, because the others all involve serious delusion, as did most of the other auditions that made it to the air Tuesday night."

Truly, some of the contestants were so terrible, it really did make me wonder if they were planted there for entertainment purposes.

Well, it worked for me. I was entertained, and I'm definitely on board for another season of "American Idol."

Quote o' The Day

"As to why I read any book more than once--it's because I've been drawn into the book's world, become a part of the characters' lives--characters too vivid, too real, too engaging to ever forget. And it's because the author told me a story that took up occupancy in my heart and in my memories--a story that became a part of me, just as I once became of part of the story. Always, it goes back to the characters, the people who 'literally' got under my skin!"--Author B.J. Hoff

B.J. posted today on books she's read more than once, and she perfectly articulated why I re-read certain books as well.

Here are some I've read...and read...and read:

Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte
Villette, by Charlotte Bronte
Wuthering Heights, by Emily Bronte
Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen
Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott
The Chronicles of Narnia, by C. S. Lewis

I'm sure there are more, but I can't think of them right off the bat. Some of them I read on a fairly regular basis. I'll think, "Well, it's about time to read 'Jane Eyre' again," and I do it. Weird?

By the way, it's been years since I've read B.J.'s "Emerald Ballad" series. I'm currently working on buying the entire series, and you can bet I'll re-read them.

Are there any that you've read more than once?

Smellin' coffee...

Just now getting around to doing Ashley's last Food for Thought meme...this time, all about one of my favorite subjects...CAFFEINE!

Here we go:

Tell about your favorite:

1. coffee (gourmet or regular, whole bean or ground, black or with sugar/cream/milk)--I'm not crazy about Starbuck's coffee at Starbucks--too strong for my taste. But I like their Breakfast Blend made in the coffee pot at work, with sweetener and creamer added. Favorite creamer: Coffee-Mate's Cinnamon Vanilla Creme.

At home, I use the Black & Decker Home Cafe Brewing System I got for Christmas...it makes one very delicious cup at a time--perfect for me, because no one else in my family drinks coffee. Right now I have Millstone's Hazelnut Cream. Yum!

And believe it or not, I really enjoy the cappucino at the local gas stations. Especially when "Pumpkin Spice" is in season!

2. tea (favorite blend, home remedy)--I love Earl Grey, Constant Comment,(with only sugar and sweetener added), and I also enjoy Irish Breakfast Tea with sugar and milk.

3. hot chocolate (with milk or water, flavored or plain, marshmallows or whipped cream)--I really don't drink a lot of hot chocolate. When I do, I like to put a dollop of Cool Whip in it.

Bonus: Do you drink seasonal favorites like cider or wassail?--I love mulled apple cider. I just add Aspen Mulling Spices, and heat it up. Absolutely delicious.

With temperatures in the single-digits as we've had here lately, hot drinks are a MUST. Soups, chili, stew, coffee, tea or cocoa are very necessary comfort foods in times like these!

Appropriately, I now leave you with a few lyrics from Chris Rice's joyous "Smellin' Coffee":

"Last thing I remember, sayin’ bye to yesterday

Glad to see it over, pullin’ covers over my head

But what were You doin’ while I dreamt the night away

‘Cause I can tell that somethin’s different

And my eyes ain’t even open yet



I’m smellin’ coffee

Birds are singin’ just outside

Here comes Your mercy streamin’ in with the morning light

My heart is racing waking up to Your smile

It’s a good morning, yeah

It’s a good morning"

Liz and I had such an awesome weekend...

Doug was out of town, so it was Chick Time to the max! On Friday, thanks to deep freeze temperastures, we cocooned...and watched not one, but two movies.


Gerard Butler

I had picked up Timeline for 5.96 at Wal-Mart, and we really enjoyed that one. Honestly, I don't even remember when this movie was at the theaters, and I have a hunch it didn't get very good reviews, but that didn't stop us enjoying it.

Admittedly, one of the chief attractions for us was that one of the stars is Gerard Butler, , who plays the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera movie.

Not only is Butler very attractive, he is also Scottish, and I could listen to a Scottish or Irish accent all day long. Based on a Michael Crichton book, the story is implausible but fun and interesting...good escapist entertainment for a chilly evening.

Later that evening, we broke out the microwave popcorn for a movie neither of us had ever seen--West Side Story. My co-host, Darren Marlar, had loaned me the DVD ages ago, and I kept forgetting to watch it. With Doug gone (he would have hated it), this was the perfect time.



Natalie Wood is lovely and some of the songs are great and have rightfully become classics ("I Feel Pretty," "Somewhere," "Tonight"). And I was prepared for the sad ending, knowing that the play was based on Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet."

Liz asked me if Hispanic people were upset that Natalie Wood was chosen to play Maria, and not a Latina actress. I'm sure Wood was chosen because she was a box-office draw, and nothing against her, but it certainly would have been more authentic if a Hispanic actress was playing the part.

Anyway, I enjoyed watching it with my daughter as part of a cozy Chick Night.

On Saturday, we went to lunch at Applebee's and then hit the mall. Fun!

Pulling the Plug on the Internet?

"Instead of making life easier — the essential promise of technologies since the steam engine — the home PC of late has made some users feel stupid, endangered or just hassled beyond reason."

That from an article, via Steve Beard, about a trend toward getting rid of home internet.

Interesting. In fact, Beard's blog, "Thunderstruck," which I just recently discovered, is pretty cool. Sort of like the Matt Drudge of pop culture from a Christian perspective. Check it out.

What authors do you have in your library?

I finally started packing this week to move into our new home, and I'm blown away by all the books I own. I filled several boxes (smallish ones, so they won't be too heavy), from our bedroom alone.

I'm thrilled that our new house has a lot of bookshelf space already in place. Finally, someplace to PUT all these books. I've had to store them in drawers and even under sofas and beds.

I give away a lot of my paperback Christian fiction books...first to my mom, who is hungrily rediscovering the joy of reading, then she passes them along to my sister, who shares them with her daughters. But even so, I have tons. And I keep the ones I cherish the most, and am seeking copies of ones I never owned but really want in my library.

For example, a friend launched my love of B. J. Hoff's writings several years ago by loaning me the Emerald Ballad series. I've now purchased two of the series, and am on a quest to buy the rest.

I also want to own Francine Rivers' "Mark of the Lion" series. I gave them away years ago, but now I want my own copies. In fact, come to think of it, I'd like to own everything Francine ever wrote.

And I'd really like a nice hardbound set of C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia. And a good quality hardbound copy of Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre...I only have two well-worn paperbacks as it is.

Well, I said all that to say this: Ashley has passed on another cool meme, this one about the authors you have.

This is how this meme works: copy this list, delete the names of the authors you don't have on your home library shelves, and replace them with names of authors you do have. Bold the replacements. Then link to me.

Charlotte Bronte
Louisa May Alcott
Jane Austen
Emily Bronte
J. R. R. Tolkien
Charles Swindoll
Charles Dickens
John MacArthur
C.S. Lewis

Join the fun!

With wind chills dipping to as low as 20 below here this weekend, it's going to be perfect for snuggling up with a hot beverage and a good book. Have a blessed weekend, everyone.

If you lost a loved one in 2004...

..you are a member of a club you never wanted to be a part of. And you probably are familiar with the poignant sadness of experiencing a first holiday without that loved one. For me, the first Thanksgiving and Christmas without my father especially stung.

Through Cedarville alum and beautiful writer Kevin Young, I just discovered the blog of Cedarville University president Dr. Bill Brown. (As many of you know, my son Jonathan graduated from Cedarville in 2002, and my son Justin is a student there now.)

These comments of Dr. Brown resonated with me: "Missing my dad at Christmas was the most memorable memory of the holidays. Many of you have been through the same. The 'first' of everything without a loved one is always the hardest. Then you adjust.

"Being with my dad when he died has made me fear death less.[my emphasis]. Interesting. The reality of God's presence really takes over at the edges of life. That's where the 'quiet desperation' Thoreau spoke about gets loud and comforting at the same time."

Wow...amen.

I will add Dr. Brown to my blogroll and make a point of visiting him often.

You should be blogging?


LaShawn Barber
If you aren't familiar with LaShawn Barber's Corner, you're probably fairly new to the blogosphere. LaShawn's intelligent, articulate insight into political issues adds a valuable dimension to my knowledge of current affairs.

Anyway, check out her post about today about blogging. LaShawn thinks it's important and we should be doing it. For what it's worth, I'm glad I'm already on board!

Be still my beating heart...Donny Osmond has a new album out...



...and USA Today is actually giving it a positive review!

Actually, I wasn't a big fan of the adolescent Donny, but I thought his voice matured quite pleasantly in later years.

USA Today's Elysa Gardner uses the words "wholesomely funky" in describing one tune, and says: "Sure, there's enough corn on this CD to supply a multiplex theater on a rainy Sunday afternoon, but Osmond serves it with such unaffected grace that it will never make you queasy."

I'm just glad to see someone who's known as a clean-cut, nice-guy family man, actually get a good music review from the mainstream media.

A good cause

One of my regular blog-stops is A Likely Story, so when Rae speaks, I listen. She left this in my comment section this morning:

"Greg Hammonds, whose wife died of breast cancer, is hosting a comment fundraiser with the money raised to go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s programs for education and low-cost or free mammograms for low-income women. For every comment made, he or another of the sponsors will donate $1. So, if you have the time to simply comment or even better to provide a link to direct traffic there, it would be super :D"

Done, Rae! I also visited the site and left my comment. What a wonderful idea!

Remembering the Bookmobile

When I was a junior high school student in Vidor, Texas during the late 60's, one of the highlights of my life was the arrival of the Bookmobile.

The Bookmobile was simply a trailer that would park next to the school. It was filled with brand-new paperback books, and at certain times, we students would be allowed to enter the Bookmobile, browse, and buy. Of course, we had been informed ahead of time, so we had had the chance to weasel some change from our parents.

I can remember, as a sixth-grader, entering an essay contest sponsored by our school newspaper, the Jolly Roger. The winner of the contest in each grade was to win five dollars to spend at the next appearance of the Bookmobile.

The subject was patriotism. I can remember painstakingly crafting my essay, filled with my heartfelt thoughts about loving my country.

I won. And you would have thought I had won the lottery. I will never forget entering the Bookmobile, filled with the heady aroma of new books, knowing that I would be able to buy a bunch of them (remember, most paperback books cost about 50 cents each at the time!). What a wonderful memory!

Debra is the one who put me in this reminiscing mood, with her post about what she's reading now. One of the authors she mentioned was Betty Cavanna, who was one of my favorites in my bookmobile days.

Other Bookmobile favorites of mine included Rosamond du Jardin, Mary Stolz and Elizabeth Enright.

When we lived in Vidor, we had just returned from Beirut, Lebanon, where I experienced my British phase (Enid Blyton, Noel Streatfield, E. Nesbitt, etc). The Bookmobile marked the beginning of a new phase, but I never really left the first one. Throughout my life, cherished books and authors have stayed with me--either in the physical form of a book, or in my heart and mind.

The Internet is making it possible for me to become reacquainted with those hard to find books, and it's like re-discovering old friendships. In this day when life is moving so swiftly, it's sweetly comforting to pause and visit another time.

Of Brad and Jennifer and motherhood and perfect bodies...

Why do I care that Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston are splitting up? Well, maybe it's because the end of their relationship means that we'll never get to see the child that the union of two such beautiful people would have created. But seriously, I think it's sad any time a marriage dissolves, even if it's between two celebrities that I know only through their images on screens and in magazines.

I did find one quote that disturbed me, if it is indeed true. From a Fox News story:

"A pal said Aniston doesn't want to take the time off to have a kid — and she doesn't want to endure the physical effects that giving birth will have on her sexy body.

"It's about the children," the pal said. "She just doesn't want kids right now — and he wants kids."

Of course, the "pal" goes un-named, and I don't know how much credence to give that comment. But if it's true, it's really, really sad.

Jennifer's perfect sexy body is going to deteriorate at some point. There comes a point when all the plastic surgery or vigorous exercise in the world is not going to halt the inevitable effects of age and gravity.

Look at Elizabeth Taylor--easily one of the most beautiful women in the world for a long time. Say what you will about her lifestyle, but there is one thing that seems to be true of her, from all the accounts I've read: she adores her children, and they adore her.

I'm willing to bet that now that Liz is a senior citizen, in bad health and having lost most of the looks that made her a screen goddess in her day--well, I'm willing to bet that now she's really, really happy she had children who are around to love her and care for her in her old age. She is probably not regretting the decision to mar her sexy body in order to give birth.

(One other thing--a slew of Hollywood movie stars have had babies in the past year, and most have regained their girlish figures through their own hard work and discipline along with the expert advice and resources at their disposal. Having a baby doesn't have to mean you can never be beautiful or sexy again.)

Of course, whether or not to have children is a highly personal decision. Other reports say Aniston put off having kids because of the shaky condition of her marriage--a wise decision, if that's the case.

All I'm saying is, deciding not to have children because it will ruin your perfect body is shallow and sad. But then again, if a person is that shallow, maybe they shouldn't be having children at this point anyway.

Speaking of Jennifer Aniston...

Some Hollywood actresses are actually decrying the out-of-control plastic surgery that seems to be the prevailing trend. I don't know about you, but it alarms me when I see a favorite actress of-a-certain-age who is practically unrecognizable due to such surgery.

And I think the whole culture sends such dangerous messages to young women and girls...the message that you have to be physically perfect, that that's what's important.

Apparently I'm not alone. Culture Clips
has this quote from Renee Zellweger: "I saw [a picture] in an open magazine at a hair salon recently. Of Jennifer Aniston. A gorgeous photograph—she was perfection. And they have these arrows pointing to what she could change with plastic surgery: How about this? Look at this thing, and look at this. It made my heart sink. What does that teach a girl who’s looking through the magazine? It teaches her that if there’s something wrong with this incredibly beautiful woman, then what’s wrong with me? It saddens me that I’m involuntarily a part of that.”


"The Passion of the Christ" wins People's Choice Award...I'm confused, though...

It's kind of puzzling to me that the "people" gave best drama to "The Passion of the Christ," but the "people" also gave best picture to Michael Moore's "Fahrenheit 9/11" and best TV comedy to "Will and Grace."

I didn't watch the show, but Charmel tells me that the "Will and Grace" clip was one in which a gay character quipped about some "hot pictures" of Jesus in an art museum. Yeeccch.

I'm glad "The Passion" is getting some kudos, but it was snubbed by the Golden Globes and I doubt seriously if the Oscars will recognize it.

Meantime, another Culture Clips quote--this one from Christian film critic Steve Beard: “The Passion [of the Christ] reminds viewers that Christianity was born out of blood, pain and tears—a far more gritty reality than a Thomas Kinkade painting or a Precious Moments nativity scene. This is no small lesson to a culture whose crosses are studded with diamonds instead of splinters. The Passion is the Sunday school flannel board lesson for a generation that grew up on violent video games, skipped church and stood in line to watch Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill: Vol. 1.”

That Dentyne commercial

I have as good a sense of humor as anyone, but I really think the Dentyne Fire commercial in which a young girl gets hot-and-bothered, jumps on her boyfriend and starts to disrobe--all in front of her parents---is in really poor taste.

Also, given all the problems we face in today's society with teen pregnancies, STD's, etc, it's also pretty irresponsible.

Come to think of it, TV and radio commercials are getting increasingly racy and offensive. And yes, that bothers me a lot.

Couldn't be more appropriate...

...Ashley's Food for Thought meme is about soup today...and with temperatures dipping into the teens here, soup is sounding really good!

Here we go:

1. When was the last time you had soup? What kind was it? Was it from a restaurant, from a can, or homemade?--I actually think it was Campbell's tomato soup...which is my very favorite canned soup of all time. My mom used to give me grilled cheese and tomato soup when I was sick...what comfort food!

2. What is your favorite restaurant soup?--BeefARoo's Chicken Tortilla soup...it's AWESOME, but they only make it on certain days. I also had a really excellent seafood gumbo soup at Jason's Deli while in Texas. Tasty, just the right spiciness...yum. (Unfortunately, we don't have Jason's Deli here. :( )

3. What is your favorite canned soup?--See number one! Coming in a distant second would be Campbell's chicken gumbo.

4. What is your favorite homemade soup?--Probably this Taco Soup that I've blogged about before...it's wonderful! I also love chicken soup, but I hate to de-bone chicken!

Bonus: Cornbread or crackers?--Oh, no contest...CORNBREAD!!!

Oh, I almost forgot! Guess what...

...my son Justin got me for Christmas?

Click here.

So you want to write a book? JUST DO IT.

Robin Lee Hatcher

Of course, I'm preaching to myself here.

One of the great things about the blogosphere is the instant access to the wisdom and practical knowledge of published authors who blog. And one of my favorite author/bloggers is Christian fiction writer Robin Lee Hatcher. Robin's blog today features some great advice to first-time writers on getting past those writing hurdles.

My favorite quote: "Lots of people think they would like to write a book. They think about it, they talk about it, they just never do it. So the first rule is, plant your behind in the chair and write."

Robin's blog is lively and attractive and features her thoughts on a variety of things, not just writing.

Here are a few other of my favorite writer/bloggers:

Lisa Samson
BJ Hoff--currently on hiatus because of her husband's illness, but check out her archives for some invaluable stuff
Linda Hall

...and check out a few others listed in my blogroll in my sidebar.

Do you frequent any other author blogs you'd like to share? Let me know in my comments section...

Yet ANOTHER snow day!

I really can't remember the last time local schools had TWO consecutive snowdays. We really got hit with the white stuff. As usual though, faithful radio person that I am, I made it to work... with a lot of help from my husband. (He got to go home and go back to bed, but I'm trying not to be bitter about that. :))

And to those of you kind enough to ask, I am feeling a bit better today.

Let it...snow?

OK, how fair is this...I'm the one who's sick, but my entire family gets to stay home today EXCEPT for me!?!

Yep, it's a snow day. Actually, I'm kind of surprised everyone cancelled school today, because it looks like the bulk of the snow is going to happen tonight before 2 AM. But who am I to argue with the powers that be?

My favorite Christmas presents

My husband gave me a beautiful Fossil watch, which I absolutely love. But have I told you how much I like my Black & Decker Home Cafe?

It's perfect for me, since I'm the only coffee-drinker in my immediate family. I just slip a "pod" of coffee in the machine, add water and in seconds I have a perfectly-brewed cup of coffee. No messy coffee grounds, no wasted coffee sitting around. I love it!

And I'm not even getting paid to say that.

Ashley's Food Meme

One of my favorite bloggers, Ashley, now has her own meme, Food for Thought,which I will now proceed to answer:

1. Do you eat any "traditional" foods on New Year's Day? If so, what are they and what significance do they hold?
I normally make black-eyed peas and cabbage on New Year's Day, but this year we attended a wedding on New Year's Day that included a sit-down dinner reception. So I didn't cook at all.

2. Do you cook your New Year's Day meal, go to someone else's house, or go to a restaurant?
Again, usually I cook a nice big meal at home, but the wedding altered our plans this year. Come to think of it, last year was different too...we were on our way to Boise, Idaho on New Year's Day, en route to my son Jonathan's wedding.


3. Do you have any New Year's resolutions (goals) regarding food? (For example, to eat less, to eat healthier, to plan better, etc.)
All of the above! I really liked an article I read in USA Today yesterday about how French women don't get fat, despite the fact that they eat delicious food. They eat slowly and savor every bite.

Challenge: I want to try one new recipe each month. Share a new recipe you've tried and really liked.

I blogged it earlier: this spinach salad that I had an office Christmas party and loved!

Back from Christmas in the Great State of Texas

Katie, Elizabeth,my beautiful mom,me and Daylyn at Ballet Austin/Austin Symphony Orchestra's "The Nutcracker"

Well, it was wonderful. Doug, Elizabeth, Justin and I drove to the Austin, Texas area to spend Christmas with my mom, my son Jonathan and his wife Daylyn, my sister Lisa and her family, and my sister-in-law Jade and my brother's daughters.

Some of the highlights:

--On the way down, staying the night in Springfield, Missouri with our friend Mary and her family and dining with them at Zio's--yum!

--The Faith Baptist Church of Round Rock's Christmas program starring my amazing niece Katie and my awesome nephew Nathan--directed by my ultra-talented sister Lisa

--Eating at Chuy's (actually, way too much eating took place during the entire vacation!)--some of the best chips and salsa anywhere

--Spending time with my awesome son Jonathan and his beautiful wife Daylyn

--Getting a French manicure (thanks to Lisa) at Halina's European Day Spa in Round Rock--wow, just walking in that place made me feel pampered!

--Going to Ballet Austin/The Austin Symphony Orchestra's production of The Nutcracker--in a word, it was magical. It marked the first time I've been to a ballet, and it was simply enchanting! Also, it was girl's night out--we all got glammed up and had a blast.

--The weather--except for a few days when the temperature dipped and the winds whipped up, it was beautiful most of the time, and we rarely even had to wear coats

--On Christmas Day, going up to Mount Bonnell and following the trail up to a magnificent view of the Colorado River and gorgeous mansions lining the shore--the weather was warm and there wasn't a cloud in the sky!

--Sleeping in...well, for me, anyway! I never got up before 7:30 and even made it to 9 and 10 a couple of days!

--Sister time with Lisa--nonstop talking and laughing with one of my best friends in the world

--Going to an antique store in Taylor, Texas after seeing the Nutcracker, and finding a beautiful framed black-and-white Ballet Austin poster for four dollars!

--Spending time with my beautiful, precious mother

Those are just some of the things that come to mind. Most of all, I am so thankful that I was able to spend Christmas with my entire immediate family (Doug, Jon and Daylyn, Justin and Elizabeth) as well as several members of my extended family. Most years when I hear "I'll Be Home for Christmas" I just have to cry...but this year, Christmas Eve really did find me "where the love light gleams." :)

Of course, there was an underlying sadness with this being the first Christmas without my dad, who passed away this past July. We went out to my father's grave the day before Christmas and put a poinsettia there. We held hands, sang a song, prayed and cried.

But this poem sent to my mom by a friend, did speak to our hearts and bless us.

So now it's 2005 and life rushes on apace. To be honest, I haven't yet had time to get reflective and form some thoughts on the impact of a brand new year...but I do pray a blessed and beautiful 2005 to all who visit this blog.

Quotes o' The Day

"The past lies in the settling dust of yesterday, the future boasts an open and winding path ahead.

"2005..."--Kevin Young

"This is your life. Are you who you wanna be?...Is it everything you dreamed that it would be, when the world was younger and you had everything to lose?"--Switchfoot,
"This Is Your Life"

Good morning, and welcome...

...to a brand new year!

I'm back from two weeks in God's Country...the great state of TEXAS!

It was a wonderful two weeks. I'm going to blog at more length about it, later this morning. Just wanted to say "hi."

So, hi. :)