Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Reflect and Renew ...
Today is Ash Wednesday ... the beginning of Lent and a time to reflect and begin renewing from the inside out!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
My age is showing by the connections that I have ...
I only say that because it seems I now know more people who are at an age where they are facing death in some way ... a Mother, Father, Grandmother, friend, acquaintance. It makes me stop and think about the times when I should have reached out to say I still care when someone came to mind. With some, I have lost the opportunity to reconnect, and with those I pray that I will some day meet them again in Heaven! With others, a death has allowed a bittersweet reconnect!
Two such moments come to me immediately. The man who helped mentor and encourage me to use my voice to praise and worship God died recently at age 87. His name is Doug Moss! I got to see him about three years ago when I went home to visit for Leslie's Mom's funeral. He had such a big grin on his face when he saw me in the sanctuary, and his wife asked if he remembered who I was. His grin got bigger and he said, "I'll always know who Lisa is!" From the time I was 8 years old to the time I left for college, Doug faithfully played the organ at church and directed the adult choir that he allowed me to be a part of. He helped me prepare for various auditions. He was a wonderful man of God and I will always treasure his love of life, family and God, his encouragement and his faith ... such sweet memories I have of him from Calvert City, Ky!
Right after I found out about Doug, I learned that one of my childhood best friends (Mary) from Calvert had lost her Mom. A wonderfully, large Catholic family ... there were 10 kids, so when I hung out at their house I blended right in. We had so much fun. Mary and I haven't seen or talked to one another perhaps since I left for college some 25 (GULP!) years ago. I sent a message through the guest book when I found out about her Mom and hope that I get a response soon. Just wanted her to know I was thinking about her and the family. Where does the time go?
Who do you need to reconnect with today? Pick up the phone, send an e-mail, drop a card in the mail, stop by for a visit! It could touch a heart ... it could touch at least two!!
Wishing you roses and rainbows!
Lisa
Two such moments come to me immediately. The man who helped mentor and encourage me to use my voice to praise and worship God died recently at age 87. His name is Doug Moss! I got to see him about three years ago when I went home to visit for Leslie's Mom's funeral. He had such a big grin on his face when he saw me in the sanctuary, and his wife asked if he remembered who I was. His grin got bigger and he said, "I'll always know who Lisa is!" From the time I was 8 years old to the time I left for college, Doug faithfully played the organ at church and directed the adult choir that he allowed me to be a part of. He helped me prepare for various auditions. He was a wonderful man of God and I will always treasure his love of life, family and God, his encouragement and his faith ... such sweet memories I have of him from Calvert City, Ky!
Right after I found out about Doug, I learned that one of my childhood best friends (Mary) from Calvert had lost her Mom. A wonderfully, large Catholic family ... there were 10 kids, so when I hung out at their house I blended right in. We had so much fun. Mary and I haven't seen or talked to one another perhaps since I left for college some 25 (GULP!) years ago. I sent a message through the guest book when I found out about her Mom and hope that I get a response soon. Just wanted her to know I was thinking about her and the family. Where does the time go?
Who do you need to reconnect with today? Pick up the phone, send an e-mail, drop a card in the mail, stop by for a visit! It could touch a heart ... it could touch at least two!!
Wishing you roses and rainbows!
Lisa
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Sometimes you just know ...
when you have a connection with another person!
I had lunch with someone Friday whose path I have intersected with on a number of occasions. While we really never had a chance before to really talk ... on Friday we talked with ease about life, about each other, about work, about family ... about everything ... and it was as if we had known each other and been good friends for years. I LOVE when that happens! We talked about the number of times that we have in some way or another crossed paths before, yet hadn't actually "connected."
That is not the case now ... we have much in common in our interests, in our values and goals. We have much that we do that also complements and balances one another. So cool when God places people in your life that matter!!
I am blessed to have so many connections in my life!
I had lunch with someone Friday whose path I have intersected with on a number of occasions. While we really never had a chance before to really talk ... on Friday we talked with ease about life, about each other, about work, about family ... about everything ... and it was as if we had known each other and been good friends for years. I LOVE when that happens! We talked about the number of times that we have in some way or another crossed paths before, yet hadn't actually "connected."
That is not the case now ... we have much in common in our interests, in our values and goals. We have much that we do that also complements and balances one another. So cool when God places people in your life that matter!!
I am blessed to have so many connections in my life!
Friday, January 30, 2009
Health issues continue ...
Well, I had hoped that by now I would have answers to the health issues I have been dealing with ... chest pains/burning sensations and shortness of breath, mostly. Chest feels like there is something sitting in it. Very frustrating. The initial medication they gave me didn't work, so that ruled out (they think) ulcer, esophigitis, and acid reflux.
Had blood and other tests which seemed to have ruled out anything with kidney, liver, etc. Chest x-ray showed clear and this past Monday did a nuclear stress test. Fortunately, that showed that there is no blockage. The problem is, my chest still hurts and I am still having breathing issues. GRRR!!
My cardiologist's nurse called today and they have asked me to come in on Monday for an echocardiogram. She said the doctor wants to make sure that everything in my heart is structually sound, that the valves, etc. are functioning properly, etc. So, yet another test on Monday a.m. I just keep praying and I know that I have many friends who are doing the same thing : )
Monday afternoon Dad is having a complete physical ... it is much over due and I am proud of him for agreeing to have it done.
Had blood and other tests which seemed to have ruled out anything with kidney, liver, etc. Chest x-ray showed clear and this past Monday did a nuclear stress test. Fortunately, that showed that there is no blockage. The problem is, my chest still hurts and I am still having breathing issues. GRRR!!
My cardiologist's nurse called today and they have asked me to come in on Monday for an echocardiogram. She said the doctor wants to make sure that everything in my heart is structually sound, that the valves, etc. are functioning properly, etc. So, yet another test on Monday a.m. I just keep praying and I know that I have many friends who are doing the same thing : )
Monday afternoon Dad is having a complete physical ... it is much over due and I am proud of him for agreeing to have it done.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Whirlwind doctor visits ...
Have been having issues ... chest pains/burning sensation/shortness of breath, etc. Had a physical last week. Cardiologist visit yesterday ... have a stress test and pictures scheduled for Jan. 26. Said it would take a good three hours.
Today I went back to the clinic where my doctor is. She wasn't available so saw the Dr. in the clinic. I was checked out and sent on my way to the hospital for a series of blood tests and a chest x-ray. And a prescription for a medicine that is for ulcers, erosive esophagitis and acid reflux. Hopefully, all my problems are as simple as acid reflux. I feel, however, as if someone has beaten and bruised my chest and ribs. Very frustrating, 'cause I feel good otherwise ... especially can't seem to catch my breath. I have lots of people praying for/with me, so surely the results will help the doctors determine what the problem is and we can figure out how to treat me. I am miserable.
Since I am a singer, I am especially frustrated because it hurts to sing. I can't even hold a phrase and can't seem to hold my notes very well! GRRR!!!! I sang the National Anthem at Mike's game Tuesday night, and he said it wasn't bad, but that he could tell I was struggling for air. How depressing! And I knew he was right. He strongly suggested I stay home from the game tonight and just rest. I took Kristian out to dinner and have been home since watching television. Getting ready to lay on the couch for a bit with my blanket and a book 'til he gets home. So, sweet dreams!!
Today I went back to the clinic where my doctor is. She wasn't available so saw the Dr. in the clinic. I was checked out and sent on my way to the hospital for a series of blood tests and a chest x-ray. And a prescription for a medicine that is for ulcers, erosive esophagitis and acid reflux. Hopefully, all my problems are as simple as acid reflux. I feel, however, as if someone has beaten and bruised my chest and ribs. Very frustrating, 'cause I feel good otherwise ... especially can't seem to catch my breath. I have lots of people praying for/with me, so surely the results will help the doctors determine what the problem is and we can figure out how to treat me. I am miserable.
Since I am a singer, I am especially frustrated because it hurts to sing. I can't even hold a phrase and can't seem to hold my notes very well! GRRR!!!! I sang the National Anthem at Mike's game Tuesday night, and he said it wasn't bad, but that he could tell I was struggling for air. How depressing! And I knew he was right. He strongly suggested I stay home from the game tonight and just rest. I took Kristian out to dinner and have been home since watching television. Getting ready to lay on the couch for a bit with my blanket and a book 'til he gets home. So, sweet dreams!!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
New "Gadgets" on Blog Site
I'm trying to beef up my blog site by adding links and information that I find encouraging, helpful, interesting or that I have a personal or professional interest in myself. For example, today I have added links to my brother's and my stepdaughter's blogs. You may find them interesting, too, but selfishly I added them so I would remember to check them more frequently!
Other links I've added:
Carlinville Cavaliers Boys Basketball - Hubby's basketball team!
CleanseYourSoul.com ... My friend, Judy, makes bath and body products, tarts, etc. I love her lip balm, tarts and room sprays, especially! I'm sure you can find something, too. Be sure and tell her I sent you ... she doesn't know I've added her as a link! Hope I can send some business her way!
ConnectEDPAIRS.com - friends of mine, Matt & Marilyn, run this business ... its main purpose is relationship coaching. They have a beautiful retreat center ... pictures are included on their Web site. Mike and I attended the Introduction to Pairs so that I could experience what they did personally, as I do their newsletter and assist them in their marketing, etc. So, I can tell you first-hand, it is a great investment!
Joyce Meyer Ministries - great Christian author/speaker ... I just bought four of her books and have been watching her tv broadcasts (1/2 hour programs). She is funny, encouraging, direct ... a super role model ... I aspire to be like her when I grow up! LOL!
MaryByers.com - wonderful Christian author/speaker, as well as a great facilitator of communications and leadership workshops, seminars, etc. She is another woman who I would like to model myself after. She has served as a mentor on one of my writing projects ... very encouraging!!
Association for Women in Communications - I am president of the Springfield Chapter of AWC and serve in a couple of volunteer capacities with the National AWC organization.
Springfield Magazine - I do freelance writing for Springfield Scene!
Illinois Country Living Magazine and Association for Illinois Electric Cooperatives - This is where I spend most of my day hours. I am the Advertising Manager for the magazine, a publication of the association!
DeborahBedfordBooks - She is, hands down, my favorite fiction writer in the Christian genre.
This is all for now, though I plan to continue building and will eventually add my own Web site ... it's in the works, so stay tuned!
Blessings to you and yours in the New Year!
Lisa
Other links I've added:
Carlinville Cavaliers Boys Basketball - Hubby's basketball team!
CleanseYourSoul.com ... My friend, Judy, makes bath and body products, tarts, etc. I love her lip balm, tarts and room sprays, especially! I'm sure you can find something, too. Be sure and tell her I sent you ... she doesn't know I've added her as a link! Hope I can send some business her way!
ConnectEDPAIRS.com - friends of mine, Matt & Marilyn, run this business ... its main purpose is relationship coaching. They have a beautiful retreat center ... pictures are included on their Web site. Mike and I attended the Introduction to Pairs so that I could experience what they did personally, as I do their newsletter and assist them in their marketing, etc. So, I can tell you first-hand, it is a great investment!
Joyce Meyer Ministries - great Christian author/speaker ... I just bought four of her books and have been watching her tv broadcasts (1/2 hour programs). She is funny, encouraging, direct ... a super role model ... I aspire to be like her when I grow up! LOL!
MaryByers.com - wonderful Christian author/speaker, as well as a great facilitator of communications and leadership workshops, seminars, etc. She is another woman who I would like to model myself after. She has served as a mentor on one of my writing projects ... very encouraging!!
Association for Women in Communications - I am president of the Springfield Chapter of AWC and serve in a couple of volunteer capacities with the National AWC organization.
Springfield Magazine - I do freelance writing for Springfield Scene!
Illinois Country Living Magazine and Association for Illinois Electric Cooperatives - This is where I spend most of my day hours. I am the Advertising Manager for the magazine, a publication of the association!
DeborahBedfordBooks - She is, hands down, my favorite fiction writer in the Christian genre.
This is all for now, though I plan to continue building and will eventually add my own Web site ... it's in the works, so stay tuned!
Blessings to you and yours in the New Year!
Lisa
Go Cavies!!!
We just wrapped up the holiday tournament and the Carlinville Cavaliers won their last two games! Boy, did we need that ... the players, the coach, the coaches wife! They were good wins ... the team was playing hard!
One of my favorite things about going to see the Cavies play is the fans! They are excited, enthusiastic and encouraging, whether the team is winning or losing! They are committed and proud of their boys ... I love that!!
I also love watching my husband coach ... he is such an encourager and you can see the passion as he talks to his players ... very simply, he wants them to be better today than they were yesterday ... and that isn't just better basketball players ... he wants them to better young men, better students, better at all they attempt ... and well, being better basketball players doesn't hurt!
Blessings to all as we close out 2008 today!
Lisa
One of my favorite things about going to see the Cavies play is the fans! They are excited, enthusiastic and encouraging, whether the team is winning or losing! They are committed and proud of their boys ... I love that!!
I also love watching my husband coach ... he is such an encourager and you can see the passion as he talks to his players ... very simply, he wants them to be better today than they were yesterday ... and that isn't just better basketball players ... he wants them to better young men, better students, better at all they attempt ... and well, being better basketball players doesn't hurt!
Blessings to all as we close out 2008 today!
Lisa
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)