Ama's Delantar (Mom's Apron)

There's nothing more endearing than the memories I hold of Ama's delantar (Mom's apron).
It was the image of this garment that taught me about the art of serving. Actually, it is the gift from God modeled by my earthly mom.
She wore it everyday. It covered her dresses which were impeccably clean even though she gardened, scrubbed floors, and prepared meals.
I could always count on her to furnish me with a safety pin woven into her apron to make a quick repair on my skirt or pants.
From Ama's apron pocket she'd produce money to cover my school lunch or a trip to the drug store for something I needed to buy. Surely this garment was more than a cotton article-- it was an expression of love in action....

"Occupy 'Til I Come..."

I am not a very political person, but I have always tended to form some opinions on events pretty quick that seldom change. This was the case for me recently when I saw the first protest sign with the word 'occupy' in our downtown. I didn't know what the sign meant, to the person who was carrying it, but it brought to mind what it meant to me. To be occupied means keeping busy; taking care of one's own tasks. Jesus often told His disciples that they should "occupy 'til He comes (back)". For me, this means living out my life with honor and integrity. While I should speak out of injustices, I should also model what the conduct of a law abiding citizen should be. So, even though I think it's crazy that our city's street washing efforts leave my curbside as though it was never touched, I get out and clean it myself, and let the city know. The people who have camped out in our city "occupying" are an eyesore with their litter and their shabby campsites. I'd be more impressed and their views more believable to me if they got out and cleaned the streets, making the city take notice that they want things improved, not worsened by their mere presence. I know that they're very passionate about the greedy banks, but I also am very passionate that one person exhibiting upright behavior can make great strides in bringing order and beauty in a chaotic world.

Trick got the Treat

My favorite memory of my childhood treat or treating days was when my brother Ruben showed his quick wit at a house we were trick or treating at. My aunt had dressed Ruben as a hobo. She shook talcum powder on his head maybe to resemble an older hobo. The big group of us went out together, and came to a house where the owner, upon answering the door to the shout of "Trick or Treat", responded-- "Where's the trick so you can get your treat?" Ruben immediately took off his hat and shook his head to make a white cloud of "smoke" from the talcum powder in his hair. It really impressed the owner of the house and we got our treat. I wonder to this day if the person handing out candies asked every group of kids the same question, and how many tricks were presented. I don't think many, but I remember thinking how glad I was that we were insured our treat by Ruben's "trick".

Tim's View of New York

This picture was taken by Tim during his recent visit to New York. Thought it was pretty cool angle. (Love You Tim... MOM)

Encouragement

Think of times that discouragement comes. There's also a remedy for it. Looking past the discouraging situation, and allowing others' needs and supplications to fill our hearts, is the solution to squelch this nonproductive mental state. It definitely squeezes out any self-pity, as the realization comes that there's power to help others with prayer, service, and fellowship.
It takes effort to have the mindset that focuses on others rather than on oneself. But the rewards are innumerable. It takes courage to step outside the comfort zone which we are accustomed to. Perhaps that is why the word 'courage' is contained in the compound words 'encouragement' and 'discouragement'. It also clearly shows that there's a choice to make between the two words. Let's choose right.

October is Near

I don't know what it is about October. Maybe it's the cooler weather, the way the trees begin to change their colors to orange and reds, or the smell of freshly baked pies and apple cider.

We get ready for the kids to come around at the end of October. We call it our harvest day instead of Halloween. In truth, it is really more of a harvest day, as kids 'harvest' candy. I decided to begin decorating the house with a fall wreath, and of course pumpkins. Even though it's more yard work, I actually like to rake leaves, and the trees which the abundance of leaves come from begin to take a leaner appearance. It feels great to wear sweaters again and sip hot drinks in the evening.

A Ray of Hope

A Ray of Hope is what the quilt is called. I suppose it's because it appears that light is creeping in through the window. This is often how hope presents itself. It can be as subtle as a small touch on the shoulder, or as a far away glimpse of light in a very dark place.
Life is not possible without hope. It is the sum of our deep cares and promises we carry in our hearts for those we love. It knows no boundaries. It spans the space of miles and generations. I like the way that hope is described by God~ Romans 8:24-25 reads "For we are saved by hope; but hope that is seen is not hope; for what a man sees, why does he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it."

Looking Back in Time

Getting ready for a family reunion has given me an opportunity to view old pictures- some which I didn't even know existed. The posted picture is one such example. It's me with my mom on my third birthday. I was pretty excited to find this photo which came from my aunt's collection. My mom wasn't big on pictures, so this is a rare find. Up until the end, when the camera came on the scene, my mom would find a hiding place. Thus, the reason why childhood pictures were almost non-existant.

My mom was such a beautiful woman, that I can't imagine why she disliked taking pictures so much. Even so, I am really glad that I was able to view pictures of my mom who I miss so very much.>

And so goes August

The last day of August is tomorrow. Have you ever noticed that August is the most uneventful month of the year? It has no holiday in it, or any significant recognition. Yet all other months have attachments: September- Labor Day; October- Halloween; November- Thanksgiving; December- Christmas; January- New Year's Day; February- Valentine's Day. Even March and April usually host Easter. May comes with Mother's Day and Memorial Day Weekend, June with Father's Day, and July - 4th of July.
People keep trying to stick August with holidays - like Friendship Day. But clearly, nobody wants another holiday having to complicate life. August is just August- a month to stretch, or do nothing, if desired. Also, it's a month to brace ourselves for the beginning of fall, which very much resembles a new year, seeing that school starts over again and so does a much more crowded schedulue.
Thank goodness for months like August. We definitely need a break from so much to do.

On Family Reunions...

This weekend we spent a day with my husband's extended family. Several generations were represented by the 200+ crowd at the Rialto Teamster's Park. One thread that ran constant with those gathered was their loyalty and passion they had for their family. Seeing the memory tree holding pictures of all that have passed away was one such example. Even though this family has become part of my life through my husband, I really feel that they are my family, too. Seeing family staying together these days is a rarity, and it's refreshing to see that people still stick together through rough and unpredictable times. I'm looking forward to another reunion in September. This time, it's my father's side of the family. It will be smaller in number, but never the less a great time to be had by all who come. Some of my cousins that I haven't seen in five years will be there. There will be lots of reminiscing and catching up to do-- really looking forward to it!

Remembering Debbie

I received sad news yesterday that my dear friend Debbie passed away. I hadn't spoken to Debbie for a while, and when I heard the news, it was this knowledge that made me feel even sadder.

Debbie was a tremendous person. She had a great heart and compassion for others, especially kids. Debbie, a middle school principal, was incredible. I witnessed countless times that she took the rough and misdirected kids under her wing, gently counseled them, and they respected her because they knew she genuinely cared about each one of them.

Debbie was funny. She saw humor in life, and didn't take herself seriously. We, who worked alongside of her always knew we could count on her striking smile, and warm laughter that made some of the most stressful days pleasant. As her secretary, I admired Debbie's fair tactics with her staff. She didn't bend easy for the loudest 'squeaking wheel', but rather ruffled a few feathers of the prima donas to offer equal time/resources to the rest of the staff, who perhaps weren't so vocal or demanding, but also had need of support for their classrooms and departments. Debbie stuck to her guns, and that may have cost her.

Never the less, Debbie lived out her life with integrity, grace, and unconditional love for others. There won't be another Debbie, I'm sure of that. I'm thankful for knowing this great lady, and know that her values rubbed off on me.

Scrappy

"Scrappy" the racoon was the mascot for the Shake-it- Up-Cafe VBS recently. The four-year-olds in the classroom I was in looked forward to Scrappy's visit each day. While they may have suspected that the voice of Scrappy's was that of the puppeteer, Ms. Linda, they never showed it, because they were fascinated with his words and responded to him when he asked them questions on what they were learning.

While the week is now over, I know that the kids that attended have been touched by this week of learning their scriptures of the day; 'the secret ingredients (Be ready for God, Believe in Jesus Fully, etc); and are more open to being 'shakers for God.'

I am thankful too for the opportunity to have spent a week with 17 precious 4-year-olds who are special and unique. I think too, that this experience has also given my heart a 'shake-up' to continue living each day out with expectancy of great things the Lord wants to accomplish.

Shake It Up

"Shake it Up Cafe" is the theme for this year's Vacation Bible School. It's been fun building bulletin boards with kitchen utensils, mixing bowls and measuring spoons~ all as a visual of how we can 'shake up' our world with our love for God and for others.
It reminds me that throughout history, people and cultures have changed quite a bit through the process of being 'shaken',
Shaking up means waking up. Who hasn't experienced that shaking up experience when someone who cares about you is telling you 'Wake up~ as they gently (or not so gently) shake you into consciousness? Yes, it can feel abrupt, and not so welcoming, but consider the alternative. You sleep through an important interview, an appointment, or other event that you will regret being late too, or even worse, missing all together.
I'm looking forward to being with a classroom of four year olds. One of them will be my little granddaughter, Camryn, who already has a talent for shaking things up; resulting in the creation of fun and interesting memories.

Independence Day

Yesterday was independence day and it was interesting to see how it is celebrated. Of course there were flags. Lots of red, white and blue, too. Stores were all opened with 4th of July sales, and people seemed to move a lot slower with four days of leisure to enjoy.
This year, I also gave it more consideration. I pondered the meaning, and how it relates to me. First off, I am thankful for the privlege to know that I do indeed experience freedom everyday of the year. It begins with my citizenship of the United States of America. Here, I can speak my mind and not be punished because I differ from our current government officials. I can worship freely, without fear that the assembly would be suddenly halted by the powers that be.
However, the most important freedom I must say I experience is that of a spiritual nature. The United States of America has only imitated the real free will offering that God gave us. God has never forced us to love or obey Him.
The ten commandments that were given to us through Moses in the Bible only reveal that we are incapable of obeying and keeping all of them all the time. If this were the case for the condition to approach God and be granted eternal life in Heaven, we'd all lose out.
Therefore, God only gave the ten commandments as a template of why we need instead the blood of the lamb-- Jesus for the redemption of sins. So instead of freedom from the commandments, we embrace dependence on Jesus Christ and the cross. I guess you could call our freedom in spirit to be a 'He'dependence rather than 'independence.' You see, when we are dependent on the 'in' ward of ourselves, we are instead slaves to sin. Yet when we let go, to become dependent on 'He' (God), we are "free indeed" (John 8:36).
Let's celebrate our freedom everyday of the year!

Grandkids Galore

These past few days have been kid-filled. Our grandkids are visiting for a few days, and it's been a blast. It's interesting to see that the world suddenly changes to be one that the children can adapt to when our grandchildren come to visit. We went to Fairmont Park Sunday, and experienced it's new playground, complete with water feature. Also, going to the newly opened Marcy Library, complete with imaginary forest in the children's book section was a fun sight to experience.

I think God gives us grandchildren as a second chance so we can have kid experiences once again. This is such an awesome opportunity. I am thankful for my grandchildren, and appreciative to my son and daughter-in-law who generously share them with us. In addition, my grandchildren have impeccable manners and behavior that it's always a joy to be with them, and know they're a blessing to others, as well. Grandchildren are grand!

The Squirrel Who Eavesdropped

A comical thing happened yesterday. I was chatting with my neighbor, Robin when we suddenly heard a loud rustling, a crack, then a splat. It was one of our neighborhood squirrels. Apparently, he had climbed out on a limb that wasn't able to support him. So there he came down, limb and all. He was pretty stunned by the fall, but thankfully, he was okay and soon scurried away to do whatever it is that squirrels do.


We thought it was pretty interesting, because squirrels are usually very balanced as they prance around on limbs and telephone wires. I kidded with my neighbor that that's what the squirrel got for 'eavesdropping'. I guess the moral of this story is that when we get too close to the edge, not minding our own business, we too can lose our balance and 'fall off a limb'. God's creation is such an amazing thing to be seen, and to be able to learn lessons from!

Never Too Late to Have a New Adventure

It's pretty exciting when we embark on a new adventure that perhaps we thought we were too old to experience. This for me was white water rafting. I won't lie-- I was scared. I am not a very good swimmer, but knowing that I would have a life jacket on made me feel a lot better. Yet, the raft seemed rather flimsy when you looked at the huge rapids that it was supposed to stay afloat on.

Ten people assigned to our raft, in addition to the young guide were huddled together. I must say, that I felt ashamed feeling fear when eight- year-old Christian bravely sat in the front of the raft. We hit every rapid, thanks to the great instruction from our guide to paddle during crucial parts of the river to gain the momentum needed to push through each rapid, that only led to a bigger one that followed.

After a six hour ride, we unloaded our tired, but elated bodies from the raft, feeling great, and more confident of our water skills.

I would go back again in a flash. White water rafting is really a spectacular way to experience the Colorado River, surrounded by beautiful rock formations.

Effective Prayer

I am always glad to hear messages about prayer. Why? Because prayer is so very misunderstood in our society today.
My earliest recollection of prayer came as a young child who attended church regularly and participated in activities directed to praying. My mother, who was very devout, would gather her children and husband on a weekly basis. As she turned off our television, with her rosary in hand, she directed us to kneel around one of the beds, and the praying began. After we completed 10 'Our Fathers' and 50 'Hail Marys', we got up from our numbed knees and resumed watching the 'Wonderful World of Disney' or 'Bonanza'. This is what praying meant to me at that time.
Later, as a teenager, my prayers became more personal. I trusted God with bigger things, such as passing a school exam, being allowed to go to a dance by my parents, and even praying that I wouldn't get caught when I was doing something I knew was wrong. I now know that the Lord protected me, even when I clearly stepped out of His perfect will. This is what I know to be 'mercy'. It is not getting what you deserve.
I'm older now. My prayers have turned more introspected as I now am on an advanced leg of my journey in life. I am filled with gratitude, seeing the Lord has bestowed upon me an awesome family. I never dreamed that I would know such wonderful children, and now grandchildren. Yet, I also know that prayer is what has caused this to be so, and not luck, or chance.
I also know that I will always pray, because, prayer is like breathing. Just as you inhale-- taking in the Truths of God, you exhale--pouring your heart out to God in your petitions and giving of thanks.
Prayer is not complicated-- but it does have conditions. I read this morning's devotion by my pastor Greg Laurie, and was encouraged of what I need to be in order for the Lord to hear and answer my prayers. I offer the words of Greg in the words he wrote in his devotion:

"Listen! The Lord's arm is not too weak to save you, nor is his ear too deaf to hear you call. It's your sins that have cut you off from God. Because of your sins, he has turned away and will not listen anymore."
~Isaiah 59:1–2

One of the reasons our prayers may not be answered is because of unconfessed sin in our lives. Nothing will bring a prayer life to a halt faster than unconfessed sin. Psalm 66:18 says, "If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.
The problems is that we don't want to call sin what it is anymore. We will call it a weakness or a mistake or a shortcoming or a sickness. But why don't we call it what it is—a sin? And why don't we admit it is there? Why don't we ask God to forgive us as we turn from it? If we will not deal with our sins, God will not hear our prayers.
Idolatry, or putting something in our lives into a place of prominence over God himself, can also be a hindrance to prayer. In Ezekiel 14:3, God said, "Son of man, these leaders have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced things that will make them fall into sin. Why should I listen to their requests?" Is there someone or something that is more important to you than God himself? Anyone or anything that becomes more important to you than God can potentially become your idol. Any object, idea, philosophy, habit, occupation, or sport that has your primary concern and loyalty—or to any degree, decreases your trust and loyalty to God—could potentially become an idol. And it could stop your prayers from being answered." -- Greg Laurie's Devotion, 5/25/11

Knowing this, because it is God's infallible Word makes me begin praying that I would follow and obey. This is the only way that prayer may be answered.

The Praying Quilt

This morning it dawned on me why I have attached many snapshots and favorite scriptures to a wall-hung quilt. They are the target of meditation and prayer. The visual aids help me to focus on keeping prayer needs at the forefront of my mind. Even after I walk away from the quilt I gaze at during my devotion time, the people and situations represented on the quilt stay fresh on my heart as I drive on the freeway, watch t.v., exercise, or participate in other activities.
I've learned that it's not where you pray, but rather the position of your heart.
It further gives me encouragement not to hold grudges, resentments, or anything that would make me an ineffective prayer partner. The Word clearly states in James 5:16 ~ "Confess your faults to one another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

Lasting Impressions

Just reflecting on this past weekend, and two words sum it up..."lasting impressions."
The last 72 hours have been memorable for me~
It began on Friday afternoon when I attended the retirement reception of a former work associate. Although I no longer work with her, I hold Ms. Jackson in high regard. She has always been a superb professional, and a truly caring person. Furthermore, not only was I privleged to work with her, but now my daughter has shared the same privlege. At her retirement reception, Ms. Jackson was surprised to learn that for the last year, her pre-school assistant, Trisha is my daughter. She expressed a high regard for my daughter's strong work ethic, and pleasant disposition with the pre-school children in their department. Ultimately, this represented an emotional passage for me. Although I've retired from the school district, what an honor that my daughter should choose this career path, and work with many of my dear friends and colleagues!
Yesterday, I enjoyed visiting with a former neighbor and sister in Christ during a 'divine appointment' at our local grocery store. There we were, in the bread aisle, reminiscing about our children playing together on our 'kid friendly' block. We caught up on the present in both of our lives, renewed our friendship, and exchanged contact information so we may continue to stay in touch. Later that same day, an evening with my husband, sister, and brother-in-law was delightful, as we dined together, and strolled the beautiful coastline of San Diego.
Finally, Sunday afternoon, our family's reunion committee met in our home. What fun we had laughing and planning our upcoming summer event.
These are times that make me realize how blessed I am to have such wonderful family members and friends. What a lasting impression this leaves on my life.

Things That Go Bump in the Night

Remember the saying- "things that go bump in the night" referring to scary things from horror movies? Well, I got my first real "bump in the dark" a couple of nights ago. Yes, it was scary, but more than that, it hurt. I always think there is a good life lesson to be learned when things like this happen. It seems everything in our lives is for a purpose, and this was no exception.
It was late... the house was very quiet. I crept upstairs to get ready for bed, being careful not to make too much noise, as the rest of my household was already slumbering. I quietly did my nighttime routine, and was ready to pop into bed for a much needed night of sleep.
When I emerged from our bathroom, it was pitch black. I took calculated steps towards my bed- one, two three... I bent down to place my shoes on the ground. The next thing I knew, as my shoes slipped from my hand in swift surprise was a huge BUMP!
Now this was not the type of bump that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up in eerie response of the unknown. Instead it was a painful impact to my right eye. My face had "bumped" the bed footpost with full force, simply because I never saw it coming. Hence, the pitchdark condition of our bedroom.
I actually saw stars, then the unwelcome wetness of something sticky on my upper right eye area. No, it wasn't the Blob from the 60's horror movie. Instead, as I suspected and soon confirmed, it was blood. I quickly grabbed some Kleenex and applied pressure. After a minute of gathering up my courage, I uncovered my eye, and to my horror, saw it was an inch-long gash over my eyebrow area. I had to think quickly.
My decision was to drive myself to the emergency room at our local hospital. My husband stirred a bit, as I quietly got dressed, so I simply said, "Good Night." His answer was appropriate, and a little funny, now that I think about it. He replied, "Good Night- you must mean Good-Bye". Pretty insightful, I thought.
I spent the next hour and a half at the mostly empty hospital emergency room. I thought this was interesting because it was Mothers' Day. Perhaps family members either don't get sick or hurt on Mothers' Day, or they courteously wait until the next day to notify their moms of their ailments. The hospital staff was nice, asking me firmly how I had gotten the gash. (I think that this is a question asked to all women when they walk in with a face wound.) I told them my story, and I think they believed me. If they didn't, they didn't give it away in their facial expression. I am thankful that the care I received didn't include stitches. Instead, my gash was 'superglued'. No pain injection was needed, and I soon found myself on my way home around 1:20 a.m.
Later that morning, I woke up with a blood red puffy right eye. I carefully put an icepack on it, and doubled up on eyeshadow. I guess I underestimated my make-up techniques, for none of my family members even noticed the wound.
Life lesson to be learned from this experience: NEVER go into a dark room. This reminds me of unknown or "dark situations". These are situations where we speak before we know all the facts, or we rush into dilemmas in our lives where emotions mask the facts.
The same result will occur as it did to me with my experience with the bedpost --we will be stopped flat in our tracks with the painful impact of the hidden dangers. This includes, but is not limited to; harsh words, hurt feelings, and even physical danger, if you're dealing with an angry-beyond-belief individual. You'll never see it coming until you look in the mirror, and you fervently wish you had been more careful.
Instead, we should pray that God will make the light to expose the dangers that lie directly in front of us, and protect us, even when we can't "see" them.

May 5- A Day To Remember

Thursday, May 5 was a day of rememberance. It was another day that offered the opportunity to realize there's truly a God who carefully has fashioned each one of His children's lives. While we are still able to make decisions, whether good or bad, there is one remaining statute. It is this~ that no matter what we choose, if we have placed our lives in God's hands, He will confirm our good choices, and mercifully take our bad ones and carry us through to the other side where we can see that God is sovereign.
It was amazing to see how many people spent their lunch hour in a church sanctuary today to lift up prayers for our nation, our world's conditions, and for the millions around the world who suffer from pain, hunger, disease, and poverty.
Our country has seen prosperity for the last 50 years. Yes, we have had set backs, but for the most part, there has been a safety net to catch us from falling into the depths of dispair that most of our globe has not been spared. Although our nation was founded on Godly principles, they have sadly, begun to disappear. Each day in our news, there are stories of yet another lawsuit against those who simply want to acknowledge their creator.
There is something very terrible about a nation who thinks they can handle themselves much better without acknowledging the God who created them. It is such as a young child who ignores the instruction of his parent not to cross the street when the endless stream of speeding cars buzz by. It equates to the same thing people do that ignore God's laws. We all are guilty of this very thing. The Bible clearly states "...There is none righteous, no, not one;" Romans 3:10.
So where does this leave us, as individuals, and as a collected people of this country? A place of humility before a righteous God. This is why as Christians, we can boldly come to the throne of God with our sins and pains. God has already provided the bridge to Himself through His Son, Jesus Christ. For if we allow ourselves to admit that we are sinners and ask God to forgive us, He is just and merciful, and extends his love and cleanses us of all unrighteousness. This alone stands as reason to acknowledge and give thanks to God.
Prayer is the channel to God. It is not be be taken lightly that we should obey God's commandment spelled out in Romans 12:12b "...continue steadfastly in prayer."

Wedding and Weeding

This week marks the date, April 24, 2011, that our youngest daughter, Trisha and her boyfriend, Patrick got engaged. We are very happy for them, and look forward to their wedding day that will be a year from now.

I have spent the better part of this week also 'weeding' through storage boxes of our children's childhood memorabilia. So, it's not uncommon that I should be feeling nostalgic and somewhat emotional about all that has recently transpired as a result of another child leaving the 'nest'.

Once the wedding takes place, our home truly will be an 'empty nest'. Our home will grow a bit larger as another bedroom will be vacated. It's a happy occasion, but I admit, I will miss having Trisha at home. She has surrounded us with the dimension of the younger generation. I know that wih her leaving to begin her married life there will come some changes. My consolation is the fact that my husband and I have one another, and the fact that our children continue to add another layer of fellowship and connection in our family make-up, even as they lead their own lives.

I am going to enjoy this wedding planning period, though. It's not everyday that your youngest daughter gets married, and we're elated for her and Patrick. Congratulations, and God bless you both!!

Joy Comes in the Morning

How thankful I am for God's truth expressed in...Psalm 30:5 "...Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning."
No matter how dark the night may seem, the light of hope and mercy floods our very soul.

Only this very morning, I was reminded of God's light as I looked upon that which shone through my kitchen windows. The dancing colors reflected off the stained glass windows moved upon the surface of the kitchen counter, and seemed to be making time with a bird's song coming from a moving branch from the century-old oak tree directly outside the window.
This was not the case for me not so long ago. Then, the light was absent, and only darkness loomed. Circumstances seemed unchangeable, and the sheer stillness that accompanied this darkness appeared to never end.

Yet, God's Word and His promises are true. For the night does not last forever, and the faithfulness of our Father comes marching upon the eastern horizon. It's brightness and colors are magnificent! My soul rejoices with gratitude.

So, if tonight you are wrapped in darkness and solitude, look up. Very soon, and very near will the morning appear, and in your heart you will feel the light that only Jesus can bring, and joy that is inexpressible, and void of infection by circumstances or trials.

Joy comes in the morning!

41 Years and a Day to Remember

April 20, 1970-- a memorable day for me. Probably the biggest decision I ever made in my life behind my decision to follow the Lord.
This was the day I accepted my husband David's invitation to be his girlfriend.
I was 13 years old, and probably didn't know too much about life. One thing I did know, though, was that this guy was cute, and made my toes tingle, and my heart beat faster when he was close at my side. I also knew that this guy was smart. I was able to get an "A" in math just by being close enough to see his answers.
He's still the 'math guy' in our family. Very good with numbers, he calculates in his mind, coming up with a swift answer, while I am still looking for a pencil in my purse to write down the figures. I guess I was pretty smart, too. Look who I picked to share my life with!
Best decision I've ever made.

No Easter Chicks

Easter is coming, and so much activity revolves around this special day. It used to be that I stressed about this holiday, that had become way too busy for me. I dreaded the store aisles of endless bunnies and eggs, and thought way too much emphasis was put on chocolate and marshmallow chicks.

Speaking of chicks, I didn't even like to think about them. When I was four years old, I had a terrible experience with a chick. It was in those days that we used to go to our local parish, Holy Name of Mary Church on the Saturday before Easter and go hunting for Easter eggs placed in brown paper bags that were spread about the wide dirt property that was used for the church parking in the 1960's when I was a child.

My brother, Ruben had won the prize of a chick because he gathered the most brown bags. This I felt was unfair to begin with, as I only managed to get my hands on one brown paper sack-- I couldn't compete with the older kids, and to this day, I still don't get it why the prize was given for grabbing as many bags as possible. Wasn't that enough prize in itself?

As I recall, Ruben won the prize that year, and won a real live baby chick. It really was a cute little thing.

I still remember that Saturday afternoon. My little sister, Ceci had just been born a few months before, and a relative had given my mom a blanket in one of those boxes that had a cellophane "window" so the folded blanket in the box could be seen. I was immediately fascinated with this box, quickly reasoning that it could be a 'television'. I immediately framed my face with the box lid, and jumped off the bed to go make my first 'TV appearance' to my siblings.

Unfortunately, when I bounced off the bed to the floor, I didn't realize that Ruben had allowed his new pet chick to roam on the floor. Splat! My bare foot plopped down on that little creature, and it was a fatal blow. The next thing I knew, Ruben was crying to our mom, as he was going around the house cupping the chick in his hands.

I felt terrible, and to this day, think that it's a very irresponsible idea for any adult, let alone a church staff member to decide to give such a delicate creation to any child, no matter how many brown bags he or she may have found.

So it's no coincidence that I have chosen to fill my children's and grandchildren's Easter baskets with lots of goodies like chocolate eggs, foil wrapped Easter bunnies, and plastic eggs full of jelly beans and/or M&M's. One thing you'll never find in their baskets is a marshmallow chick. That's where I draw the line. Somethings are never forgotten, and I just can't fit a chick into a picture of a happy Easter experience.

The Lord has His Eye on the Sparrow

Yesterday morning while walking back to my house from taking my trash cans to the curbside, I noticed Kitty, our 10-year-old gray cat 'playing' with something between her front clawless paws.

I immediately reached for the moving object, and to my astonishment, recognized that it was a tiny bird. I quickly scooped it up, while my cat scowled at me, quite disappointed that I had taken her "toy" away. My heart was moved with great compassion as this baby bird moved in my hands and chirped his little voice. I suddenly realized why an adult bird, obviously the baby bird's mother or father was frantically flying over head moments before I made my discovery.

I didn't know what to do immediately, for I have never really been a 'bird person.' My sister, who is, told me to feed it small particles of bread soaked in milk with a toothpick so the bird wouldn't die of malnutrition. I quickly found a box, lined it with a new white hand towel, as it was what was close at hand. I attempted to feed the little bird, and also placed a tiny dish of water inside the box I hoped would allow the bird to feel he was back in his nest.

The bird wouldn't receive the food from me, though, so I put him in the safety of my home, away from Kitty Bitty, and moved on to other chores, intending to come back to the bird in a few minutes to try to feed him again. Not 10 minutes passed by, and I was back at the small nest I had created for the bird. However, he was still. I gently tapped him, and was overcome with sadness that the little bird had died.

I felt so sad. I don't know if it was because I had become so attached to this little creature in such a short time. He defintely had grown on me. He had chirped for me, moved his little wings, and his little feet had wrapped around my index finger, as if to say, "I trust you." I decided that there was a reason I had come upon this bird, and pondered what purpose it was for. I quietly placed the bird in a brown paper sack, and disposed of him in my outgoing trash bin, being soberly glad that the city sanitation company would take him away the same day, and I wouldn't have the makeshift 'casket' in my trash container for days to remind me of this short lived life.

Life is precious. It does not matter if it's the life of a celebrity like Michael Jackson or Elizabeth Taylor, a homeless person on skid row, or in this case, a small baby bird, who unfortunately, fell from the nest trying to make his first flight, only to be almost killed by a cat, rescued, and then dying (as a result of the fall, or for other reason little birds don't make it past a few months of their birth).

The Lord loves all of the above, watches out for them, and hurts when His creation is hurled tragedy or death. I won't soon forget this experience, and pray that God allows it to make His impression on my heart. God loves even the sparrow, and looks out for Him. How much more does he love His children, and never leaves, nor forsakes us!

1985- A Year to Remember Guillian-Barre Syndrome

Today, I ran upon a small article in the sports section of our Press Enterprise, Riverside, CA Sunday newspaper. It caught my eye because the heading read, "Boy gives ring to 'The Fridge'. That caption alone was enough to catch anybody's curiosity to read further. However, two things jumped out at me about this story-- The year 1985, and Guillian-Barre Syndrome. I related immediately with the contents. You see, it was in 1985 that my father, Francisco Lopez, at the age of 62, was stricken with a virus that changed his whole life, not to mention the lives of his wife, Juanita, and his eight children and their loved ones. Guillian-Barre Syndrome is a virus that affects one of every 100,000 people in the U.S. alone. My father was one of those unlucky people. Getting back to the story in the paper-- in Chicago, a Chicago Bears lineman and occasional goal-line running back had become a national celebrity during his rookie season with Chicago in 1985, and helped the Bears team win the Super Bowl XX title. However, disease and illness does not recognize celebrities or a father of eight. Guillian-Barre Syndrome rendered William "The Refrigerator" Perry the blow of paralysis. Recently, a young ten-year-old "gentleman", (because this is what he is to me) took $8,500.00 out of his college savings, (with his parents' permission, of course), in order to purchase Perry's Super Bowl ring in New York. The interesting thing in this besides the unbelievable compassion and unselfishness displayed in this young man, is the coincidental number 85. It was both in '85 that my father and Mr. Perry contacted the disease, and the amount of money to purchase the ring back for Mr. Perry was $85 hundred dollars. It also reminded me that God truly does bring comfort to those who suffer extreme pain. While my father, Mr. Perry, and countless others have suffered from the debilitating autoimmune disease attack of the nervous system, Guillian-Barre Syndrome, there are the beautiful endings such as this story of a boy giving back to someone who needed encouragement. In the same way in my personal story, there is a beautiful ending. My father, who died in 2006 from pneumonia (complications from having Guillian-Barre Syndrome), lived out 20 gracious years, touching countless lives by each day setting out in his wheelchair making friends in his neighborhood, and never being rude, or grouchy because of his physical ailments. He also managed to bring together his eight children to become a team that worked together to allow our father to remain in the comfort of his home by rotating stays, maintaining his home, and most of all, being the children that their father meant to raise. I pray for Mr. Perry, in his battle with this disease. I ask God's blessing on the 10-year-old, Cliff Forrest, of Fox Chapel, Pennsylvania, who gave sacrificially, simply because, as he told his dad, "He (Perry) only played in one Super Bowl. I thought he would want it (the ring) more than I did." Mr. Perry may have only played one Super Bowl, and my father, Mr. Lopez may have only lived one life, but in both cases, the blessings returned by both of these men to others are innumerable.

Coronado- A Gem in My Backyard

I have been a Californian for over 50 years, yet, I had never visited the world famous Coronado Hotel on the Coronado Island just off San Diego.

I was a guest of Deb and Jeff, newlyweds from Florida, and the mother-in-law and step father-in-law of our daughter, Anicia. What a jewel this place was. Built in the 1880's, the Coronado Hotel was once the largest wooden structure built in the world. It's grandeur still remains in the tall exposed wooden beams, and carved crowns (coronitas) in the beautiful wood bannisters.

Having brunch with my daughter, son-in-law, Brian, and Deb and Jeff was special enough alone. But, what a setting to celebrate with them this special occasion of their wedding! I will definitely go back to the Coronado Hotel again, and savor it's shops, history of movies made, like Marilyn Monroe's 1958 hit 'Some like it Hot', and just kick around on the beautiful grounds with their unique plants and trees. The only regret I have is not going there sooner. When I go back next time, I'm taking my camera!

A New Season

This has definitely been a new season--Spring has arrived. Everything around me has become green over night, and the buds on trees and plants promise a fresh bouquet of flowers and tender green leaves. I'm not surprised that Easter is celebrated in the spring, for it is a reminder of the new life we own in Christ! His death on the cross, and glorious resurrection is the representation of the new life we have in Jesus. Have a happy spring, and more importantly, may your Easter be spent in the knowledge and assurance that you are Christ's new creation.