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John W. Dennehy Blog

Saturday, March 31, 2018

Stoked to join the long-standing Weidbook family. My supernatural horror story, Waiting, will appear in the August issue.

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Saturday, March 31, 2018

My short story Cleaning House will appear in the May issue of Blood & Bourbon. A literary story dealing with contemporary issues, I am excited that it appealed to the editors. Look forward to announcing the release.

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Sunday, March 4, 2018

STORY OUT: Crimson Streets

My short story Hellhounds is out in Crimson Streets now. This is a supernatural horror tale based upon the infamous WWI battle where German infantry coined the term Hellhounds to describe U.S. Marines. The Battle of Belleau Wood remains a staple in Marine Corps lore.

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Sunday, February 4, 2018

My crime story Letting it go is out now in You can check it out for FREE:
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Saturday, January 27, 2018

A Tribute to Jack Ketchum

I was saddened by news this week of the passing of Jack Ketchum. He influenced my work and was approachable and easy to connect with on many levels.

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Saturday, January 13, 2018

This is the cover for my next novel, a supernatural thriller. Sinister Seeds will be out soon. Hope you check it out!

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Sunday, December 17, 2017

REPRISAL is out Now!

My Crime story Reprisal is out now from Yellow Mama. Check if out for FREE:

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Saturday, November 18, 2017

CLOCKWORK UNIVERSE offered at a Discount!

My first novel Clockwork Universe is available for a short time in eBook for .99.

An action-packed monster hunter set in an alternate world. The book is a quick read with great reviews from Cemetery Dance Publications, This is Horror, Kirkus Reviews (a Recommended Read only given to the top 15 percent of its reviews), Horror News Network, Hellnotes, and Critical Mass.

 "John W.

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Saturday, November 18, 2017

Lock Up is out NOW!

My story Lock Up is out now. You can read it for free on Near to the Knuckle's webpage. Hope you check it out!
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Sunday, October 15, 2017

STORY ACCEPTANCE: Near to the Knuckle

Delighted to announce that my Crime story, Lock Up, has been accepted by Near to the Knuckle. The story will be available on their website in the near future alongside a number of talented writers. Hope you check it out.

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Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Summer's End is out Now!

My Crime / Literary short story, Summer's End, is out now on the UK's Fiction on the Web. You can check it out for Free with the following Link:

Read more . . .

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Ridley Scott’s Exodus and Why The Bible Isn’t A Movie Script

The book was better than the movie.”

That’s what most of us hear when bestsellers are adapted for the big screen. They don’t live up to the expectations of the story and characters that were built up in our minds in one way, but very different from what film producers came up with. They don’t capture the same feeling, the nuances and complexity, the ebb and flow of a character’s growth or the intricate details of the plot.

With Exodus: Gods and Kings, it’s no different—but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth watching.

Releasing The Perpetual Critic Mindset

As with any story, there’s a lot of good that can shine through and there’s a lot that can get confused. Even if we didn’t particularly like the filmmaker’s interpretation, it’s still a story to be heard and to consider. Regardless of how we feel about Hollywood producing films based on Bible stories, we can at least appreciate that the conversations are happening.

Exodus: Gods and Kings has garnered mostly mixed to negative reviews, and for a variety of reasons.

The film industry got excited for what director Ridley Scott hyped as one of his most epic projects—which says a lot, because he’s the guy behind Gladiator, Prometheus, Kingdom of Heaven, and so many more. Critics deemed it a flop in both box office earnings and artistic value. The Christian and Jewish communities voiced staunch disappointment in the creative license used in the storytelling.

I don’t think it was earth-shatteringly epic like Scott predicted, but I don’t think it was as devastating as most others complain.

I understand the disconnect—Exodus left me wanting more: more character depth in the protagonist, more ethnically-accurate casting, more backstory to explain the plight of the enslaved Israelites, improved dialogue. Yes, the film missed big elements of the Exodus story (you can read the top 4 I wrote about earlier). However, the whole thing came off as a decent film: beautifully shot and colored, visually stunning, generally good acting, and a compelling story.

The Toughest Crowd To Please

Lots of reviews liken Exodus to Darren Aronofsky’s Noah from earlier in 2014 (a film in which I found 6 things to appreciate, despite its mixed reception). Generally, Christian audiences have lambasted any project from Hollywood as an evil distortion of the truth, but fail to celebrate how more and more people are considering stories and ideas from a book we consider to be the words of God.

Why not embrace the questions and curiosity of wider audiences asking about faith and God, while admitting that it’s OK to engage the ideas of the Bible without having all the answers?

Regardless of our beliefs (or lack thereof), we can all admit we don’t understand everything, but truth is worth seeking.

For those of us who call ourselves Christians, Exodus and films like it don’t need to be objects of our scorn, but tools we can use to talk about and point people to finding truth in Jesus.

The Bible Is Not A Movie Script

It’s unrealistic to expect a perfectly accurate portrayal of Bible stories in modern film because that’s not what Bible stories are for.

The stories of the Bible are not written so that we can create entertaining films, but so we can see the story of humanity and how we fit into God’s story.

The Bible doesn’t all make sense.

It’s not an exhaustive history on all things.

It’s not all pretty or family friendly.

It’s not easy to explain.

I am all for filmmakers and artists of all kinds rendering interpretations of the stories of the Bible because it’s how people wrestle with the ideas of what is true, what is good, who are we, and what we’re doing here. Even Ridley Scott told Esquire a few years ago:

I’m really intrigued by those eternal questions of creation and belief and faith. I don’t care who you are, it’s what we all think about. It’s in the back of all our minds.

Sure, share your opinions about Exodus and other movies. Point out where they go wrong. But remember that art, like people, has more than one or two dimensions. Real life, real faith, the stories we need to hear to keep us going—these things are never perfectly packaged just the way we expect.

The truth is messier than that.

Do you plan on seeing Exodus: Gods and Kings? Why or why not? Answer in the comments below.

4 responses to “Ridley Scott’s Exodus and Why The Bible Isn’t A Movie Script

  1. I do want to see this film. I have yet to see Noah as well. I so appreciate your take on this. Such truthful words. Especially how the Bible is not pretty or often family-friendly! And despite the cliche, the struggle is indeed real! It’s great to see creative minds struggle through it, because none of us will ever have it 100% right. Thanks John!

  2. I don’t think this movie is devoid of supernatural, I think the presence and power of God is very, very vivid all along:

    -The plagues, totally out of hand or without scientific explanations… Scott even pointed out the hanging of the reasoners in ramses court at failing to provide a reason… A higher intelligence at work is clearly shown. Esp. the death of the 1st born plague…

    -The timing at how would Moses knew a Tsunami is coming… he didn’t… he was clueless but had faith.

    -The law-giving at the end, and prediction that the hebrews will go astray very soon.

    I loved the 2nd half more and the God’s speaking through Malak(the boy angel) was all in right aesthetics… showed the unsettling feeling of immense power and command. Yet in a negotiating way. The abrupt coming of day out of night is also an interesting miracle shown… Loved this religion epic 😉

  3. Thoughtful comments John. I have yet to see the movie. The trouble filmmakers encounter when creating screenplay from biblical narrative is obvious. We shouldn’t judge a film based on a biblical account as we would Hebrew or Greek Scripture translated to English. A film does not portend to be the Word of God, even though it may contain words of God.

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Plačkovica (Plachkovitsa)

Plačkovica – Plachkovitsa – Плачковица

A short drive from Štip (Shtip, Штип) will bring you to this mountain, Plachkovitsa, in Eastern Macedonia.  Near the summit of Lisec (Лисец) and the Zrnovska River gorge we discovered an old basilica, a great hike, mountain goats and wonderful views.  We even discovered the ruins of an old Christian Basilica here.

The Plačkovica mountain is rich with canyons, rivers, waterfalls, passages, caves and high cliffs.  The mountain is split into two halves, western and eastern, by the Zrnovska River.  Lisec is the highest peak at 1754 meters (5,755 feet) and is located on the eastern side.  On the western side, the highest peak is Turtel at 1,689 meters (5,541 feet).

Three beautiful canyons, Kamnik, Kozjak and Zrnovka, await the nature adventurer.  There are also five caves that can safely be explored: the Big Cave, Kjup, Dahlia, Turtel and Ponor.  All five have cave decorations and thrill for the not so claustrophobic.

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About Brko

I am a Macedonia enthusiast and an adventurer. I really enjoy being immersed in the Macedonian culture, meeting people from all over Makedonija and sharing their traditions and cultural heritage.


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Marketing With Stars Flyer 1

Give the gift of Secrets of Wisdom

Have you ever Wondered what your Purpose is, or Why You’re Here? Are you Ready to Jump-Start your Dreams? Your Destiny is Calling You! Welcome to the Sacred Quest.

You are a magnificent being with the spark of the Divine within your heart and soul. You are here on FrontCover_600pxl_2Earth to create something wonderful. You have special qualities that are needed, now. Yes, You!

From Joyce Gerrish, world class teacher of Spiritual growth and healing, comes an amazing new book in which she incorporates her decades of significant experience. This book can enhance your life and your ability to make a noteworthy difference for good in the world.

Secrets of Wisdom has been hailed as “a substantial contribution to Spiritual literature” by Lynda Wells, Ph.D.,LDN, CNS.

Dr. Georgianna Donadio, founder of the National Institute of Whole Health and author of best-selling book “Changing Behavior” says “Joyce Gerrish is a true pioneer, having started her important work almost forty years ago. I highly recommend Secrets of Wisdom. The wisdom she shares can enrich your life physically, emotionally, mentally, and Spiritually.”

The purpose of this book is to help you, step by step, actualize ever more fully the amazing person you really are. Each of seventeen chapters focuses on how a different profoundly beneficial quality such as empowerment, forgiveness, life purpose, joy, or illumination can enhance your life. Each chapter is like a multi-media, life expanding workshop with inspired insights and guidance, uplifting art, and heartwarming personal sharings from fellow seekers. There are practical action suggestions to support you, as well as free access to audio meditations and soul songs through the accompanying website Secrets of Wisdom.

Joyce offers ongoing Teleconferences and local live Workshops. These classes offer more in-depth study of the chapters in the book as well as other important topics for living a better life. See the website for full details of all events.

Secrets of Wisdom is available from Joyce’s Website, and and can be ordered and picked up at most local booksellers in your area.


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Going, Giving, Gone.

mexico summer 2004 010Last year, a friend’s comment pierced me.  I was regaling him with stories of my day, which had been full of outlandish examples of helping other people. Honestly, I was expecting him to say, “What a crazy day! You must be wiped out!”  Instead he smirked and said, “Joy needs to be needed.”

I felt as if he’d slapped me.  After an exhausting day of laborious physical care for someone in need, it felt like I’d been ridiculed.  To make matters worse, that same friend had benefited from my help earlier in the year when I’d been a last-minute call for child care and was nearby after a surgery to provide ice changes and meals. It was fine to need me then, but now he’s making fun of me? I was indignant.  I don’t need to be needed. I notice needs and try to help!  Isn’t that a good thing?  I stewed all night about it; in the morning, I confronted him. My friendship with him runs deep so I knew he had my best at heart and he’d appreciate my honesty. Naturally, he was horrified that he’d hurt my feelings and he affirmed his gratitude about the times I’d helped him, but he didn’t back down.  “You shine brighter when you are helping others,” he said. “It’s just your nature.”emma's 7th birthday 053

I know myself well enough to know that when my heart stings, there is truth to be discovered. Like, maybe a comment struck just a little too close to home. Not exactly bull’s eye, but if I dig around and self-examine, I’ll likely find the place where it connected beneath the surface. For months I’ve pondered why his comment cut so deep.  What’s so bad about feeling good when I help others?  I guess on the extreme we call this co-dependent behavior, and to a lesser degree, people pleasing.  I’ve certainly danced my way through both of those danger zones, but at this point in my life, I rest comfortably in a healthy place on the giving continuum. At least, I think I do.

half moon bay with Louis 006Louis, my youngest, graduates from high school in two weeks.  Today, I decided to read all the college essays he submitted months ago.  Buried in the middle of a fabulous essay, I found this:

My mom likes to say that there are two kinds of people in the world: givers and takers. It’s how we view the world, how we treat others, how we look at our place in the universe…. For takers, the world is full of opportunities for them to snatch. They live in a fantasy land of wealth and options—life is within their grasp. They eat all the bananas, they never buy groceries, they always take the first serving at meals.

Givers, like my parents, are the opposite. They look at the world as empty, and they are the only ones who can fill it up. They give their time, their energy, and their sanity. My father flew from Chicago to Houston to help my sister’s ex-boyfriend move into college because his parents couldn’t leave Singapore. If I’m ever sad, or anxious, or worried, my mother gives me whatever time I need to help me through, time she could spend doing any number of other things, like making money.

I try hard to be a giver… But it doesn’t always work out; it doesn’t come naturally to me. I don’t understand how my parents put up with it all … But I do try. I try my hardest to give what I can—my time, my input, my energy—to those around me. Because that’s who I am. That’s who my parents have raised me to be.

pumpkin carving 013This giving, this “needs to be needed”… it’s a thing. If my boy is writing to potential colleges about it, I must have managed to make it a core family value, a thing to be passed on.  Why doesn’t it sit well with me?  Why did I resist when my friend pointed it out?

I’m closer to understanding it, but here’s some of why it hurt:  No one actually needs me right now.

Soon, Louis will graduate and fly off to a summer working on a farm, on his own. After that, he’ll move to a new city and begin a life without me.  I fully expect he will never live at home again.  I’ve been warned about the empty nest.  Sure, I’ll be waving and smiling as my last child crosses that stage to get his handshake and diploma, but inside will be utter heartbreak.  As a feeling of nostalgia floods me, I’ll stare blankly at my husband and wonder what in the world we’ll talk about for the next 25 or 40 years. Women who’ve gone before me have whispered to me about it.  “It’s a new chapter, is all.”  “Parenting just looks different; it doesn’t end.” “You’ll need to invest in your marriage in a new way.” “You’ll finally get to do all the things you’ve wanted to do.”  “It can be exciting if you let it be.”

DSC_9607No one spoke about the loss of not being needed any longer, and that’s where I feel empty.  I feel like I have so much more to give.  I always knew I had enough mothering to give four children, but I only had two.  I’ve had to intentionally ration this nurturing love so that I didn’t overwhelm my two.  Sometimes I think of my business as my 3rd child who will never fly the coop.  The more smother-mothering I give that one, the faux kid, the more she blossoms.  But not the first two, my real children. I have to hold back.

IMG_0411My dirty little secret, the one I can’t share with everybody, is this: I’ve loved being a mother.  I mean, I’ve really, really loved it.  It feels dirty because I’ve always felt like society needed me to be more.  It needed me to really, really love my career, really, really love politics, really, really love non-profit work and volunteering, or even really, really love my husband. (Remember that pot-stirrer?)  But for me, mothering is what lit my fire. It’s made me shine brighter. Sure, days were long and hard, it was a thankless job for the most part and it wasn’t always fun.  I recall one particular night my husband emailed me from a posh restaurant where he’d just enjoyed a delicious dinner in London on a business trip.  I read his note while eating the leftover Kraft macaroni and cheese that was still on the kids’ plates hours after dinner. Part of clean up routine – after bath, books, songs, one more potty, one more hug, one more banana-because-I-am-still-hungry, and a can-I-sleep-in-your-bed and will-you-lie-with me…sigh – was that I finally got to eat dinner alone.  But dinner was usually whatever was left on their cold plates.  So, was mothering, glam? No.  But satisfying? Deeply.  Like, deeeeeeeeply.  An ex-boyfriend wrote me after I had my first baby, ostensibly to offer congratulations, but then asked why I’d stopped working. “I always thought you’d do more with your life, “ he casually said.  Nope.  “More” was right in front of me and I fully stepped into it. “More” was raising these two:

“More” filled me up.

To. The. Brim

I got lucky with the two kids I got and they got lucky with me.  We were three peas in a pod.  I was good at my job and I was happy in my job, but I have no job now. Except my actual job, which I will keep plugging away at.  But my soul’s work, it has finished.

IMG_4538My friend worked for a bank for many years and the bank closed the division she’d run. It was a management decision and had nothing to do with her work.  In fact, they hired her back to oversee the downsizing of the department and she was great at it. It was methodical and important work.  But, she told me that as much as she found the downsizing work satisfactory, she’d rather have done it for a different company, one she hadn’t worked so hard to build.  As she chipped away pieces of the funds, investors, clients and human resources, she was cutting down the very thing she’d brought to life.

Yep. As successful as I was at mothering, these last few years have been just like that: intentionally stripping away my control, my influence, my involvement, my voice in their ear.  Stepping back, so they step forward.  Creating a hole in me, so they could feel full.

And now I am empty.

photo 2 2

I’m in the final stretch of this job.  My last day is known; it’s two weeks from tomorrow.  There will be no retirement party.  Like my friend, if I’ve done my job well, there will be nothing left.  The boy will take it all with him. Parenting is a one way street.  All the love and care is supposed to flow from me to them and then they keep walking down that street away from me, headed to their own destiny. This is how it is supposed to work, Joy.

One of my BFFs messaged me last week.

Her: How are YOU??

Me: I am good, sister.  All things under control and doing a good job mothering my last final weeks of having any kid live with me. 😦

Her:  When does he leave?

Me: Graduates June 6. Flies June 10th never to live with me again!!!!

Her: Omg

And then she proved her worth as one of my best friends by asking me this:

Her: Give me three words to describe how you’re feeling.

Me: loss, unknown, free

Her: Yes

Her: That makes perfect sense

Me: you are the bestest of friends to ask me that sweetie

IMG_6663This weekend we had our final family Sunday night dinner.  This is a big deal, guys.  A really big deal.  The Sunday night family dinner is the cornerstone of our week. As far back as my kids can remember it was our special time.  They could invite friends, or they could be surprised by who we invited.  It could be us four or twelve more; week to week we never knew.  But Brad always cooked on Sunday nights. On this our final-final, Brad pulled a huge slab of beef from the fridge and smoked it for hours and hours on our grill.  I set the table with care. I asked Louis if he wanted to invite anyone and even suggested a few people.  “I think they’d be fun to have, but it’d be more fun for it to be just the three of us.” So, I only put out three plates.  It took me six months to stop accidentally setting the table for four when Emma, his older sister, went to college, but I’ve finally switched gears to three.  Soon, I’ll set for two.IMG_3836

Today, when I finally caught up with Louis’s essays, months after he’d turned them in, I found this:

What will you miss the most about your current community when you leave for college?

Schedules are sacred. They’re the only things that never change. Sunday: Wake up. Go to church. Get lunch. Chug a coffee. Do homework. Then, the Gordon family dinner.

It’s a little tradition we have, a part of the schedule that—come hell or high water—will not change. Every Sunday, the members of the household convene to share and laugh about the week over food. No matter who’s at our table, from best friends to half-strangers to the various ne’er-do-wells of Singapore, we always have Sunday dinners. It’s more than a meal. It’s my communion. It’s my safe place. It’s my childhood.

Soon, I’ll have my last sacrosanct Sunday dinner before I head off to university. But I know that someday, I’ll manage to find a new group of tablemates. Even if my family is halfway around the world.

IMG_5795Louis, it looks like I’ll need to do the same thing. I need to find new tablemates.  My heartbeats will be halfway around the world and my table is still big, but now empty.

There is loss: I’ve worked my way out of a job.

There is unknown:  Who am I after this?  What if that was my life’s work? What if I am never this passionate about anything else?

But, there is also freedom.  I’ve done this job well.  I can turn off the lights and walk out, walk into a new world.

It’s time for me to find other places to give, because, well, it turns out my friend was right:  Joy needs to be needed.

Screen Shot 2018-05-29 at 8.54.27 AM

I am so happy he does not need me as much anymore.

One of his essays touched me so deeply.  I’ve been blowing my nose ever since reading it.  If you have time, and can take some geek-talk, you can read it here: Louis’s magic essay .  During the time in his life that he writes about, I quietly asked a close friend, “Am I warping him by making myself his best friend?”  She put her arms around me and said, “Joy, you are saving him.”  You were right, NBF.  This picture is Lou and me, just last week at one of the many ceremonies meant to bring me to tears.  We’re still the dynamic duo. Through thick or thin he can always count on that.

That won’t ever change, Lou!❤

Do you have a child moving on to a new phase?  Into the crowded hallways of the scary public school you’ve been giving the stink eye for a few years?  Walking away from college to pursue his own thing?  Into boarding school?  Is your girl getting married?  Leave a comment below and tell us about the transitions you are facing in motherhood and how you are dealing with it.   Wise ones ahead of us, what helped make it easier for you?

P.S.  Welcome to all the recent subscribers!  I’m Joy. I post random pieces at random times, but I promise to keep you laughing, crying, or at least thinking!   If you were forwarded this from a friend but want to catch the next addition (in 6 months or 6 days from now… we never know) simply fill out that form at the top right corner.  It looks like this:

Screen Shot 2018-05-29 at 9.33.02 AM


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church, ministry, Scripture, spiritual, theological

In The Name Of The Holy Spirit?

In John 14, when Jesus describes the Holy Spirit to his disciples, the Spirit is described as an advocate, helper, comforter, or counselor (depending on which translation you use). That’s the truth, the alpha and omega of the Holy Spirit’s character, and where I’ll begin and end this blog post.

But here’s another, harder truth: Sometimes the Holy Spirit — or things done “in the name of the Holy Spirit” — has seemed less like a counselor and more like why I need counseling.

Sometimes someone “lays hands” on you a bit too intimately and even if you protest they say they’re “blessing you in the name of the Holy Spirit.”

Or someone prays for your twisted ankle in lieu of medical treatment, calling on “the name of the Holy Spirit.”

Or someone puts you on the spot to pray in tongues right there, right then, or else you’re not really living “in the name of the Holy Spirit.”

To be clear, the Bible does affirm the aforementioned laying on of hands, praying for the sick and injured, and speaking in tongues/different languages. For many people these are cherished, holy experiences.

So, when does a line get crossed from holy to hurtful?

When there’s confusion involved. Actions done “in the name of the Holy Spirit” must be done in order to advocate, help, comfort, or counsel (1 John 14). What’s more, they must be done with order and accountability. Interestingly, in 1 Corinthians 14, the apostle Paul talks extensively about praying in tongues and prophesying…and at the same time lays out guidelines for ensuring that tongues are interpreted and prophecies confirmed. “Let all things be done for building up,” Paul writes, “for God is a God not of disorder but of peace” (1 Cor. 14:26-33). Anything done in the name of the Holy Spirit begins and ends in peace for all parties involved.

When there’s coercion involved. Coercion is the hallmark of abuse. Kids are taught to speak up when they’re uncomfortable with the way they’re being treated physically, verbally, or sexually — and if the treatment continues that’s abuse, plain and simple. In the same way, people should be able to speak up when we’re uncomfortable with the way we’re being treated spiritually — and if the treatment continues that’s spiritual abuse. Too often, neither the abuser nor the abused even realize what’s going on, much less speak up about it, if the action is being done “in the name of the Holy Spirit” because, seriously, who wants to argue with the Holy Spirit?! But coercion, and the fear it elicits, is not of the Holy Spirit. Rather, “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).

The truth is: the Holy Spirit does not insist. It invites

It invites us to experience the fruit of the Spirit in a myriad of ways from silence to singing, from the food of Communion to the fun of community. As I heard a preacher put it this morning, every part of church life — perhaps even every part of life — is a door through which we can enter into experiencing the Holy Spirit. We don’t have to open the door, but we’re invited to.

We’re invited to receive the words of Jesus in John 14, spoken truly in the name of the Holy Spirit: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”

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text: JustVish Merch Store - JustVish Blogs 2018-12-10T19:44:00-12:00 JustVish Merch Store 2018-12-10T19:44:00-12:00 2018-12-10T20:14:45-12:00 Illustrations come to life.. Vishwajeet Dash Not a many of you would know that before getting into video content creation I was making quirky illustration about events that unfolded in our country. Like they say "If you are born creative no matter what you do in life you will invariably gravitate towards some form of creative outlet" and this probably is both a boon and bane for me. I have always had an insatiable desire to express myself in forms of art and found great difficulty fitting in the pursuit of excellence in academia. I observe life as it unfolds around me and find immense pleasure documenting stories. Today I turn a new leaf with this merchandise store where I intend to draw inspiration from my adventures and use my illustrative skills to preserve the moments in the forms of utility art. I hope you accept my new endeavour with open arms just the way you have enjoyed and loved my videos. Untill the next blog post... dont forget to live life with a dash of adventure.


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Friends of Kamalani

Friends of Kamalani

The Friends of Kamalani & Lydgate Park is a non profit organization dedicated to the preservation of Lydgate State Park.

Each year, we come together as a volunteer community to observe National Make a Difference Day in late October, and Earth Day in the Spring.

Earth Day 2019

Until then, enjoy this video montage of our Annual Earth Day Event 2018

Each and every week we also have a Saturday Beach Clean Up at the park’s swimming pond – Morgan’s Pond. We meet near the lifeguard tower at 8:30 a.m and work until about 10:30-11:00 depending on the days work.

Here’s a video to give you an idea of what we do each week for Saturday Beach Clean-up.

Photo Slideshow of some Work Done on Saturdays: 8:30-10:30 am

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

We invite you to come enjoy a couple of hours of clean up and time spent together making a difference in our local community.

Each year we have two main events: Make A Difference Day & Earth Day

Our Next Big Planned Event is Earth Day
Saturday April 20th, 2019

We’d love to invite you to get involved in any or all of our events by completing the form at bottom of the page Or Contact Us

mahaloMahalo To Our Many Sponsors and Supporters

Mahalo nui loa for the gracious support from the following: (no particular order)
~ County of Kauai, Department of Parks & Recreation
~ Castle Resorts and Hotels and the Kaha Lani Association of Apartment Owners
~ The Royal Coconut Coast Association
~ The Hilton Garden Inn
~ Home Depot Lihue
~ Starbucks Coffee
~ the Y’s Men
~ YWCA of Kaua‘i
~ Kapaa Rotary
~ and generous contributions from many other businesses and organizations
(SEE More by Clicking HERE)

Come Get Involved

Please consider joining us and inviting friends, family and other community organizations to come out with you.

Have questions, comments, or inquiries regarding volunteer group arrangements?Complete the form below:

c/o YWCA of Kaua’i . 3094 Elua Street . Lihue, HI 96766 . (808) 245-5959


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About Us

For a teenager who was in love with sports cars, exotic cars, and road racing, these weekends were like Christmas. And when you’re about 13 years old and you first come face-to-face with that dream car or at a Concours event full of beautiful vehicles, your passion becomes set in stone and continues to this day.

A passion for cars

Let me introduce myself, I’m Rob Sarich the Karczar.  I help people sell and find the perfect vehicle for their needs.  Karczar is an automotive concierge service that provides a clean, clear, concise and painless process to sell your current vehicle or purchase your next one. Over the years my passion for cars created opportunities to own many classic vehicles, muscle cars, sports cars, as well as modern classics.  My involvement with cars of all types and styles is a lifelong passion.

My passion for cars created opportunities to own and sell many classic vehicles, muscle cars, sports cars, as well as modern classics. I also understand that when it comes time to replace your vehicle for another one, whether it is a new daily driver or that bucket list purchase, part of the process is how to sell your old vehicle and received the best possible price. If you’ve never sold a car before, the process can seem daunting. It involves things few people like to do when selling a vehicle such as determining accurate vehicle valuation, how do I market the vehicle on various websites? Answering emails, texts, and phone calls, negotiating price, as well as meeting people you do not know or discussing money with strangers.  Karczar has a better way to sell your vehicle.

Since 1987

Karczar concierge provides a service to car owners looking to sell their vehicle, from recent makes to classics vehicles, muscle cars, hot rods, sports cars, or exotics I have owned and sold them all. Karczar concierge service concept is to help car owners earn more money than selling or trading through a traditional dealership.   I will personally meet with you, inspect your vehicle, provide an accurate estimate of the vehicle value, take photos, create listings and set up views and test drives.  I limit your involvement plus save you stress and time by answering all potential buyer emails, texts, and phone inquiries plus meet with potential buyers, so you don’t have to. I negotiate the price on your behalf and bring to you all offers to purchase for your approval. Once you have agreed on the sale price I will arrange for you, along with myself as your representative, to meet the buyer at a bank of your choice to complete the transaction. Just show up at the bank, bring the vehicle title, and collect your money in a safe and secure environment.  The Karczar does all the of the work eliminating the hassle and time selling your vehicle and providing top dollar at the time of sale.

Purchasing a car is a difficult task, time-consuming, a big expense, and can be overwhelming to think about.  So many brands, so many colors, so many choices, the process can seem daunting and that’s where I have a better way. Karczar Concierge Service does all the work for you. Finding the new or used specialty vehicle you want.  In the right color combinations, with the right options and without the need to set foot in a car dealership or deal with a private seller that has a vehicle you are interested in.  I will locate for you that hard to find a classic car, hotrod, muscle car, sports car or exotic vehicle.

Karczar concierge service can help a wide range of people including first-time car buyers, parents buying their son or daughter their first car, senior citizens, busy professionals who may not have the time to go through the car buying process or anyone who is intimidated by the car-buying process. The benefit of using a Karczar concierge service is three-fold: save time, save money and save aggravation

Vehicles Purchased

Vehicles Sold

Number of States

How can we help?

Are you too busy or simply need a hand in finding or selling that specialty, sports or classic ride?

Please be sure to fill out all the “Contact Us” fields. In addition, provide any additional comments that might be useful or pertinent.  It’s also important that before we speak, you provide as many details as possible about what you’re looking for.

We will review your inquiry and contact you shortly.

Contact us for your next vehicle buy or sale.

15 + 10 =

Rob Sarich the Karczar

Get In Touch

2233 East Camino Canción
Tucson, AZ 85718

Open Hours

Mon:9am – 5pm
Tue: 9am – 5pm
Wed: 9am – 5pm
Thur: 9am – 5pm
Fri: 9am – 5pm
Sat: by Appt.
Sun: by Appt.

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Tag Archives: Sintra

The Castle and the Palace

8/27 – if you look way up when standing on the main street of Sintra, you can see the battlements of a castle on top of the mountain in the distance. Today we took a bus 3 miles up the mountain, to walk among the ruins of the 8th century Moorish Castle, Castelo dos Mouros. Time and earthquakes have brought down most of the structure, but the turrets and walls that remain provide a wonderful view of the countryside below.IMG_1425.JPG

One of the things you can see from the castle is the visually striking Pena National Palace. Originally a monastery from the Middle Ages, it was mostly destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, then restored in the early 1800s by young King Ferdinand. It has tiled walls, trompe l’oeil, minarets, Moorish arches, and whatever else struck the royal family’s fancy.

The tour displayed lots of rich-people stuff. My favorite was the kitchen:

We walked through the natural gardens that surround the palace, and climbed to the mountain summit to see the High Cross:

From the Cross, we looked down on the palace below:

Enough climbing for one day – time for a nap!

Quinta da Regaleira

8/26 – there once was a millionaire who wanted the best estate ever. He hired landscapers to make the gardens magnificent, and added underground tunnels, secret grottoes, waterfalls, Rapunzel towers, and everything you ever dreamed in a fairy tale. He added secret Masonic and alchemy references, and threw in some stuff from the Knights Templar for good measure. The result is Quinta da Regaleira.image

Here is the Inverted Tower, or Initiatic Well, that links earth and sky. Climb down the wet stone stair to reach underground tunnels to the chapel and the lake:

We climbed up winding paths, crawled down dark tunnels, hopped on stepping stones across a lake, and came home exhausted. What a place!

Beautiful Sintra

8/25 – As our train left Lisbon behind, we saw mile after mile of high rises and urban landscape. Then, 30 minutes later, we were in a land of fairy tale castles. Welcome to Sintra! On our first afternoon, we just walked around to get our bearings:

We peeked into a park with papier mâché animals, where a little old man played El Condor Pasa on his recorder:image

We’re going to enjoy the beauty and the quiet for the next few days.

Goodbye Lisbon, Hello Sintra

8/24 – we are in Lisbon for one more day. What should we see? Not too far away is the Igreja Sao Roque, or the Church of Saint Rocco. This is the oldest Jesuit church in Portugal, and perhaps the most ornate. At the time it was being built (1700s), the Portuguese explorers were bringing more gold and jewels home from Brazil and the new world than anyone knew what to do with. Many of the riches ended up here. Here is one of the large gold candlesticks, over six feet tall:

Here is a bone of Sao Roque himself, in a gold reliquary:

This church has so many saint parts, that there are two reliquary chapels on either side of the main altar, one for male bones, and one for female bones:

If you are not familiar with Saint Rocco, he is always depicted as having sores on his leg, and is accompanied by a dog offering him a loaf of bread:image

We are staying at the Lisbon Amazing Hostel, so every morning we meet different people at breakfast. Today we met a Chinese couple who are going to grad school in Milan, and have come to Portugal for a summer holiday. They are getting Masters degrees in business. It turns out that David (his chosen Anglican name) already owns several factories, and the degree will help them to run the companies better. As we ate toast and jam, he asked us what type of vegetable oil was the healthiest – he was thinking of starting another company to import healthy oil to China! We marveled at his ingenuity.

As an antidote to the noise and crowds of Lisbon, we are taking the train 30 minutes west to the delightful town of Sintra, where we will spend several days walking through gardens and castles before resuming our Caminho. The New York Times featured a travel section on Sintra just last week, so we fear it is no longer an undiscovered idyll, but we shall see!


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An Unlikely Governess

 2006 Historical Romantic Mystery/Gothic Nominee – RT Book Reviews

Unlikely Governess

In An Unlikely Governess, Beatrice Sinclair has been hired as the new governess for the Duke of Brechin, a precocious nine-year-old boy with underdeveloped manners and an overdeveloped opinion of himself.  Although she is certain she can eventually handle the child duke, she is not so sure about his cousin, Devlen Gordon, an independently wealthy industrialist.

When the child’s life is threatened, his older cousin takes the two of them to his home in Edinburgh.  Despite Beatrice’s suspicions that Devlen may have reasons to cause the young duke harm, she finds herself charmed by him.  Beatrice only wanted a position, a way to feed herself and survive in an increasingly harsh world.  Instead, she found a terrified nine-year-old boy desperate for protection and an enigmatic man who fascinated her.~~~~

Here is the world’s shortest blurb for An Unlikely Governess:

Beatrice can handle a troubled young duke — but the boy’s dangerously appealing cousin Devlen is another matter entirely . . .


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Upon a Wicked Time

Upon a Wicked Time was originally published in 1998, and has been one of my most divisive books. People either HATED the hero or they understood him. There are no half-measures with Jered. Jered Mandeville is impossibly arrogant. Tessa Astley is innocent and optimistic. Their marriage was a dream come true for Tessa, and matter of convenience for Jered.  Fate and Nature, however, conspired to change both their minds. Jered doesn’t want a soulmate, just a proper duchess hidden away on his country estate to beget heirs.  He certainly doesn’t see a place for his sheltered bride in his decadent life in Regency London. So Tessa starts a campaign to win his heart by invading his home, his reckless adventures, and his bed. She just might be able to convince the cynical duke to feel again. There were, frankly, times when I had my doubts.

Here’s the blurb:

Young Tessa Astley fell in love with the rakish Duke of Kittridge after one kiss. Now, her fairy tale seems to come true when she weds the handsome lord. Only Jered Mandeville doesn’t want a soulmate, just a duchess to beget heirs. So Tessa starts a campaign to win her husband’s heart. She might be able to convince the duke to fell again, once upon this wicked time.


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Opal Triad Cluster Studs

$140.00 was $180.00

Opal is an emotional stone and reflects the mood of the wearer.  It intensifies emotions and releases inhibitions.  Encourages both freedom and independence.  Opal enhances cosmic consciousness and induces psychic and mystical visions.  It stimulates originality and creativity.  Helps to release anger and claim self worth, aiding in accessing and expressing one’s true self.

Opal is most known for its ability to bring one’s traits and characteristics to the surface for examination and transformation. Just as Opal absorbs and reflects light, it picks up thoughts and feelings, desires and buried emotions, amplifying them and returning them to the source. While magnifying one’s negative attributes may prove to be uncomfortable, it allows for understanding how destructive these emotions can be and assists the process of letting them go. Opal also illuminates the positive actions and emotions of the self, enhancing the good and true, and fostering one’s highest potential. It is a karmic stone with a reminder that what one sends out will return.

Opal strengthens memory.  It encourages an interest in the arts.  Wearing Opal brings loyalty, faithfulness and spontaneity.

Material: this stud backing and post is handmade with 14k gold.

type: Unknown Type by: earring
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Karsh Signature

Yousuf Karsh, master photographer of the 20th century

Dr. Martin Luther King

Dr. Martin Luther King, 1962

Martin Luther King was born on January 15, 1929. Dr. King was photographed by Karsh in August, 1962, not long after King was bailed from jail by Billy Graham.

King was awarded at least fifty honorary degrees from colleges and universities, and in 1964 he became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, which was awarded to him for leading nonviolent resistance to racial prejudice in the U.S. Read more.

See another photograph from the Sitting.


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Greetings, hi, hello.

Welcome to my site. This is where I showcase my work and write about this thing called life. Enjoy!

Cookies are killers.

As a kid, my friend Laura's Aunt Roe used to warn us that cookies are killers cause you can never have just one. She was probably right. Today I decided to bake a batch of my favorite Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie to test out erythritol, a no-cal sugar substitute. Last time I baked these cookies I added cranberries so I was curious to see how the recipe would react to a little dieting.

Being totally honest, my recipe didn't work as-is. Baking with erythitol requires more liquid than baking with regular sugars. I didn't know just how much so my cookies came out too dry. A few weren't bad but I need to keep experimenting. I'll report back when I make this one work. Ingredients listed below just for reference.

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
  • 8 tablespoons of butter or margarine, at room temperature
  • 1 cup of erythritol
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup coarsely chopped chocolate (I used some dark I had on hand)

Side note: The erythritol has a decent flavor. It's obviously not sugar but not a bad substitute either. A little grainy.  I'll make it work.

Fab five bloggers.

Randomly - Obama edition.


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Valentino releases Valentina Acqua Floreale

by Katie on February 14, 2013

It’s a flanker. But, as it’s a good one, I can tell you that if you liked the beautiful heady scent of Valentino’s quite lovely Valentina (released last year), all big blooming elements of jasmine, orange blossom and tuberose, then the ‘Acqua Floreale’ version will be right up your ‘strada’.

The new Valentina Acqua Floreale is a lighter, vaguer, fresher version of the original, created by the same perfumer, Olivier Cresp.
On first spray (or squirt would be appropriate as the nozzle delivers big watery splashes rather than a fine mist), the rush of fresh bergamot is large (combined with neroli) as is the follow up shades of orange blossom, mimosa and jasmine. More difficult to decipher are the more sensuous elements of amber and patchouli, though there is a very grounded, delicate softness that calms in its air of refinement.
This is less Valentino Miss Minx causing havoc with her new found sensuality in her native Rome and more “Mama Mia, I’ve had two glasses of prosseco, someone call me a cab.” Valentino’s trademark femininity and grace is still there, for sure, but the lightness of touch while still innately appealing is much gentler and luminous. As with it’s counterpart, Valentina’s beauty is its appeal to a wide audience of women who embrace womanhood instead of overblown pink sticky girliness.

Valentino’s Valentina is, after all, a cultured choice whether she’s full on or not.

Valentina Acqua Floreale is priced £50 (50ml) and £66 (80ml) and available from all good dept stores.

Detail image by kind permission of from Valentino’s Spring’13 couture show.

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Our firm is open today, when Va. courts are closed on the Lee-Jackson day relic

Keeping Lee-Jackson day merely perpetuates Virginia's shameful official racist past

Jan 15, 2016 Our firm is open today, when Va. courts are closed on the Lee-Jackson day relic

Our law firm is open today. My son’s Fairfax public school is open today. Numerous other Virginia city and county governments are open today. However, all the Virginia courts, the DMV, and all other state government offices are closed today for the relic [Robert E.] Lee-[Stonewall] Jackson day that since 2000 has fallen on the Friday before Martin Luther King, Jr., Day.

I support having a federal holiday for Martin Luther King, Jr., and will blog more about him on his federal holiday, as I always do.

For those Virginia government employees who today have a paid day off, rather than giving them one less paid day off, they can be given a credit for a day off on another day. However, Lee-Jackson day needs to end, not because Lee and Jackson fought for the losing military, but because this holiday is inextricably intertwined with Virginia’s official virulently racist and Jim Crow past.

Nobody but myself decided for me to move to the South from Manhattan in 1986 when I got an apartment in Arlington, Virginia, just one subway stop away from my George Washington Law School in Washington, D.C. Northern Virginia in particular, and the rest of the South, look and feel much better today than from the days of racially segregated bathrooms and forcing African-Americans to the back of buses, but much more is left to be done nationwide and worldwide, and keeping a Lee-Jackson day does nothing to help that momentum.

Lee-Jackson day and Martin Luther King, Jr., Day were at one time held on the same day until Lee-Jackson day in 2000 was moved to the Friday before the federal MLK holiday.

Happy MLK Day! Remove Lee-Jackson day.

Ex-Virginia governor Bob McDonnell wins spot on Supreme Court docket, on the same day I again see Newt Gingrich at the mall
Turning a judge's "no" into a "yes"
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Montrose Basketball Hoodie

Montrose Basketball Hoodie

  • $ 22.00

Nothing gets you more excited than when it's time to go watch your beloved Rams take on their opponents. Now you can boast your intense passion for the team everywhere you go with this distressed shirt. The classic graphics printed on this shirt will make your fandom apparent all season long!

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Colorado Springs officer critically wounded in shooting; suspect identified

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- An officer was seriously wounded in an exchange of gunfire on Thursday morning, the Colorado Springs Police Department said.

The shooting happened about 2:45 a.m. in the 2300 block of East Boulder Street on the east side of the city.

Officers responded to multiple reports of shots being fired near Bonfoy Avenue and Boulder Street.

When they arrived, a male suspect was in the street. As other officers arrived, the suspect produced a handgun and shots were exchanged, police said.

The officer, Cem Duzel, is a five-year veteran of the police department. He was assigned to the Sand Creek division and worked as a patrolman.

Officer Cem Duzel. (Photo: Colorado Springs Police Department)

The El Paso County Sheriff's Office said Duzel was gravely injured. He was taken into surgery at a hospital and was in critical condition as of Thursday afternoon.

The suspect also was shot and suffered nonlife-threatening injuries. He was identified as 31-year-old Karrar Noaman Al Khammasi Charges against Al Khammasi are pending.

(Photo: El Paso County Sheriff's Office)

Shortly before the shooting, a female Uber driver kicked out Al Khammasi for "inappropriate behavior issues," according to a spokesman for the ride-sharing company.

The shooting started shortly after the man left the vehicle. The driver then called 911. She was not injured.

Police said it does not have a fundraiser for Duzel and warned people against donating to supposed efforts that might be scams.

The Deadly Force Investigations Team, lead by the sheriff's office, is investigating the shooting.

For those who would like to donate, they can call the CSPPA Fallen Officer Relief Fund at 719-634-0058 or mail to:

516 North Tejon Street
Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Donations will be used to defray the expenses associated with assisting officer Duzel and his family.

Google Map for coordinates 38.838559 by -104.791548.

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market analysis

Zipporah Kwamboka preparing fish for her business in Mukuru informal settlements, Nairobi, Kenya.  She has benefited from Oxfam Cash transfer for work program. Photo Credit: Allan Gichigi / Oxfam
The last few years has seen a significant change in the way that humanitarian organisations approach response design. Partly spurred on by the growth
in cash transfer programming, market based programming, “the practice of working through and supporting local markets, is now widely considered...
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Surrendering the Next Shopping Spree!

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled” (Matthew 5:6)

As I prepare my heart and mind for the upcoming Holiday season, I want to drink more of your living water, be refreshed and be led by the Holy Spirit (John 4:10).

In today’s world, I am easily distracted by online shopping!

“Lord, I have been thoughtless once again over financial decisions. Please forgive me”

You then gently whispered, “I have the right to do anything,” you say —- but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything —but not everything is constructive.” 1 Corinthians 10:23

When I glance at my smartphone, I view all sorts of time-sensitive bundles and discounts. I even receive text messages on upcoming deals and exclusives from my favorite shops.

In less than a minute, I am able to select a vibrant color and/or suitable size on a clothing item or a trendy font for a monogrammed tote. By just clicking ‘send to cart’, the item can be fully paid for and be delivered in a matter of days. The free shipping alleviates the buyer’s remorse. The expedited delivery excites me to no end!

Yes, I’ve been careless with money, have recently disregarded the home budget and overlooked future, critical expenses! There is nothing I can hide from you. The struggle is real, Lord. I need the Holy Spirit to intercede on my behalf.

704D80FF-77B9-402D-8627-5360E1EE2B62Photo courtesy: Rawpixel @ Splasher.

I want to be mindful of how I spend every dollar I earn. I need more of you, Jesus, and less from today’s cyber world.

I am surrendering my heart this morning for the first time after wrestling with shopping urges for decades.

Change the desires of my heart, and teach me valuable lessons along the way. I want to be more mindful of sound financial decisions. I don’t want to incur debt. Decrease my worldly desires one day at a time!

I am ready to surrender shopping sprees. I’ve realized I am powerless over frivolous spending. I am saying “YES” to a monthly budget.

I want to think clearly and objectively before every purchase. Do I truly need the item?  Or can I wait for another month?

Help me make wiser choices during the upcoming Holiday season.

Thanks for steady employment, financial stability and a fulfilling career.

I believe in the power of Christ so transform my finances one day at a time.

In Jesus’ name, I pray Amen.

Not today, Satan!

“Here’s my life motto, the truth I live by I will guard my ways for all my days. I will speak only what is right, guarding what I speak. Like a watchman guards against an attack of the enemy, I’ll guard and muzzle my mouth when the wicked are around me. I will remain silent and will not grumble or speak out of my disappointment… !” Psalms 39:1-2 TPT

I am disturbed at times when I encounter mean-spirited people in the community.

Help me overlook people’s evil intentions and immediately forgive them. Give me the inner strength and a pure heart to pray for the renewal of their minds, and for their hearts to be softened and souls to be refreshed!

I cannot change their hidden agendas or actions but I definitely can change my reaction.  Lord, help me think of what’s noble, trustworthy, admirable and sing praises to you all day long.

I will stand firmly on your Truth and boldly cry out “NOT today, Satan!”

The Truth reminds me… “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12 NIV

I know the spiritual warfare is real and it’s an on-going struggle. I know this well!

Help me withstand both non-verbal and verbal darts when these are heading my way…

The enemy likes to distract us away from His Kingdom work. The enemy is sure crafty and subtle yet destructive.

I still don’t like when others highlight one’s character flaws…when the wicked humiliate others in front of an audience, valuable time is wasted. The truth reminds me how fearfully and wonderfully we are all made (Psalm 139:14).

“Not today, Satan!”

Last Friday, I witnessed someone rolled her eyes when she heard my name for the presentation! Thank you for supplying the strength and the ability to move forward with a successful team presentation. You are always my strength and defense (Exodus 15:2).

“Not today, Satan!”

Yesterday, I heard others laugh when I incorrectly misused a legal term! The enemy uses mockery as a distracting strategy. Thank you for allowing me to successfully complete the task at hand and did not stumble thru the decision-making process. You kept me safe (Psalm 140:4).

“Not today, Satan!”

Jesus was the most influential, servant leader yet he was ridiculed, mocked, tortured and eventually crucified by His enemies. I may very well be scrutinized, mocked and even tortured in the midst of controversial, heated discussion and tough decision-making proceedings, but I will have victory in Christ today and always (Psalm 20:6).

At the end of the decision-making process, help me remain objective and professional in order to render the best decision on the best interest of a child.

Forgive me if I have an ounce or two of unforgiveness or bitterness in my heart this morning.

Help me grow to be an influential servant leader so I may serve children and their families for years to come regardless of the enemy’s creative diversion.

In Christ’s strength, I will lead courageously.

So, “I am saying YES. YES. YES to Jesus.”

In the name of Jesus, I pray.

Photo courtesy: Jennifer Marvin @ Splasher

God of Second Chances!

Thank you for being unwavering in a world that is constantly changing and evolving.

You are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow (Hebrews 13:8).

You have yet to disappoint me, Lord!

Please forgive all of my unrealistic expectations and insane demands.

You are the Greatest Teacher whose patience never runs out.

No matter how stubborn I have been in the past…you have nudged me in the best direction and waited fervently for me to grasp a lesson or two along the way.

“For the Scriptures encourage us with these words: “Everyone who believes in him will never be disappointed.””
Romans 10:11 TPT

Photo Courtesy: Jordi at Splasher.

When I left home at a young age, you softened my dad’s heart so he would welcome me back  home with open arms. I now cherish unforgettable moments with my dysfunctional  family, the hidden treasures in family traditions and most importantly their  unconditional love!

When I was lost in the wilderness, you adored me and never gave up. I bet you were thrilled when I acknowledged your ways and surrendered my heart. I now value the narrow road filled with inner Joy and Hope!

When I was in imminent threat, you protected me from a head-on collision, and allowed me to walk away without physical injuries… just minor collateral damage! I am now confident of your generous love and protection.

When I left my home town, you opened up new horizons and helped me settle in a foreign country far away from family and friends. I am now much closer to you than ever. Our intimate relationship will be nourished for years to come.

When I left the last employer, you reserved the career opportunity so I may be rehired in less than two months. I now appreciate all the hidden blessings in the midst of chaos, challenges and confusion!

Help me be still so I may listen to your soft whispers filled with wisdom today and always.

You are my God of ‘second chances.’

in Jesus’ name I praise and I’m forever grateful,


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Faraway on the Farm Tour Draws Hundreds

For the first time in its 103-year existence, Faraway was a stop on the Key Peninsula Farm Tour. We were one of 13 farms to open our doors to the people of Key Peninsula and beyond—to showcase the craftsmanship, creativity, knowledge, skills and tenacity that have been a part of the KP’s rich farming history for over a century.

It all started when we were considering buying Faraway in the summer 0f 2016. I’m a licensed broker and found the real estate listing on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) website. I knew a little about Longbranch from what I had read online after seeing the listing, but my husband and I had never spent any time on the Key Peninsula. Before we purchased this rundown property, I wanted to do a bit more homework on the area.

Where did I go for information? Straight to Google.

I searched “Key Peninsula” and “Longbranch” and was so happy to discover the longest-running farm tour in Pierce County was based locally: the Key Peninsula Farm Tour.

In September 2016, when we had only owned Faraway for a month, I decided to host a “post-farm tour” potluck for 30 or so of our friends and new neighbors. I was so intrigued with the farm tour that if I couldn’t be on it, I wanted to somehow be a part of it.

Looking back, I must have been crazy! The house was still littered with shabby leftover furniture and dishes, and the rug in the dining room was stained and patched with duct tape.

In the first couple of weeks, I had to literally rake the carpets before vacuuming them, because you can’t vacuum up pine cones and trash. I had scrubbed walls and drawers and cleaned out cupboards and washed a zillion dishes, but it was still pretty sad, inside and outside the house.

Photo: Rich Hildahl

During the potluck, I told several people, “Next year, I am going to be on that farm tour,” and I was always met with the same blank expression. Then whomever I was talking to would look around at the dying gardens, the rotting wood, the broken windows and peeling paint. The blackberry vines covering acres of the property and sneaking their way into windows and cracks in the walls. The crumbling ceilings and broken gutters creating small ponds along the sidewalks.

Fast forward one year later: I achieved my goal of being on the Key Peninsula Farm Tour, although I didn’t submit an application to be a “participating site” until July 24. So 10 short weeks and a lot of hustle later, we opened our gates to hundreds of people.

What a day!

Gorgeous weather, happy vendors, smiling musicians. I was pleasantly shocked by how many people showed up for our first stop on the farm tour. So many hugs, so many people running into each other for the first time in years.

We offered unique plants, homemade soap, organic and ethically raised meat, make-and-take crafts for kids and feed samples from our favorite local feed store.

Fresh Food Revolution Co-Op had fresh produce for sale and Gnosh food truck was here too. If you brought apples and a container, Hans from QBerry Farm sent you home with your own fresh cider. If not, he had grapes and gave samples of grape juice.

My next-door neighbor Connie Hildahl was on hand to answer questions and sign copies of her beautiful photo-filled book, “Echoes of Faraway.” Her display was like a step back in time, set up with newspaper clippings, photos and memorabilia that kept people interested and asking questions all day long.

We answered other questions about Faraway at our information booth, and there were raffle prizes awarded to a handful of the lucky people who filled out comment cards before leaving.

Tim Kezele, who has worked his “Longbranch Tree & Shrub Care” magic for three different owners over the past 40 years (including us) led tours down the 200-foot-long, covered pergola. I don’t think he had time for more than a bite of his breakfast burrito.

The crowds showed up at 9:50 and were still walking down the pergola at 4:30, a half hour after the farm tour closed and while vendors were loading up their trucks and leaving. I actually had to ask people to leave so I could finally let my dogs out of the house.

That night, after everyone left, Tweed Meyer and I had a glass of wine and started reading comment cards, and over and over the words from the community filled my heart to bursting.

My favorite comment might have been, “My favorite part (about today at Faraway) was everything.”

Mission accomplished!

Brook Hurst Stephens lives in Longbranch. She can be reached at HistoricFaraway@gmail.com and you can follow the property’s daily progress at Historic Faraway on Facebook.

Living Faraway
Living Faraway


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Thurs Lunch Sport: Ulster Include Ireland Internationals for Scarlett’s Game; Dublin GAA CEO Costello on Media Criticism of Dubs

: 12/06/2018 - 12:50

Ireland internationals Iain Henderson, Rory Best, Jacob Stockdale and Will Addison are named in the Ulster side for their crucial Champions Cup game away to Scarletts tomorrow night.

Ulster have won one and lost one of their two Pool 4 games to date, while Scarlets have just a losing bonus point.

Best will equal Andrew Trimble’s club record of 71 European appearances.

Kildare’s Marty Moore is named at prop.

The Republic of Ireland has been drawn in the same pool as Russia, Azerbaijan and Romania for the European Under 19 Championship qualifiers.

The games will be played as part of a mini tournament in Russia in March.

Dublin GAA’s John Costello has suggested reducing team numbers to combat negative play in Gaelic Football.

In his annual report, the Dublin chief executive suggests a 13 a side game should be trialled.

In reference to some media criticism of Dublin, Costello says, tongue in cheek, in his Annual Report: "Perhaps Jim Gavin should run up and down the sideline during games, gesturing to the crowd or throwing water bottles around to show his 'passion'.

Two Mile House complete preparations this evening for Saturday’s Leinster Intermediate football final.

They play Shamrocks, of Offaly, in O’Connor Park Tullamore at 1.30pm

fm will have full commentary in association with Pat Keogh Skoda, Ballybrittas.

Cricket Ireland has announced that the West Indies will take part in the one day international tri-series which will be held in Clontarf and Malahide next May.

Today’s racing is in Clonmel

12.05. No 6 Smoking Gun 9/4fav (Joseph O'Brien/Rachael Blackmore)

12.45. No 7 All the Chimneys 16/1

About Us

Kfm broadcasts on 97.6fm and 97.3fm to all parts of county Kildare 24 hours a day from the state-of-the-art Kfm Broadcast Centre, Newhall, Naas, Co. Kildare and around the world on this website.

Our aim is to entertain and inform our listeners, with the best music, local news and current affairs plus top class live sports coverage.

Remember, Kfm is your local station; we’re always interested in hearing your views and suggestions about the radio station.  You can find all of our contact details on the Contact Us section of the site.

Enjoy your visit, thanks for listening and spread the word about Kildare's Kfm!


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Gaza fishing boats challenging Israeli blockade draw navy fire

Palestinian fishermen ride their boats as they return from fishing at the seaport of Gaza City on 26 September 2016. [REUTERS/Mohammed Salem]

Palestinian fishermen ride their boats as they return from fishing at the seaport of Gaza City on 26 September 2016

A group of Palestinian fishing boats that sailed off the shore of Gaza to challenge an Israeli naval blockade of the coastal enclave drew warning shots from the Israeli navy on Saturday, the boats’ organisers said.

About 20 fishing boats set sail from Gaza City port toward the maritime border with Israel. The Gaza Health Ministry said there were no casualties reported.

An Israeli military spokeswoman said the navy gave the boats verbal warnings before firing in to the air.

Palestinian witnesses said some of those on board set tyres alight and set them afloat toward the maritime border before they were confronted by four Israeli naval vessels.

Israel says its naval blockade of Gaza is intended to prevent weapons from reaching militant groups, including Hamas, the populist movement that controls the Palestinian enclave. Israel and the West designate Hamas as a terrorist organisation.

Read: BBC bows to pressure from Israel and changes Gaza headline

More than 2 million Palestinians are packed into the Gaza Strip, which is experiencing deep economic hardship.

Israel and Egypt, citing security concerns, keep tight restrictions on their land crossings with Gaza which have reduced its economy to a state of collapse.

UN and Egyptian-led efforts are under way to mediate a long-term ceasefire between Israel and Hamas who have fought three wars since 2008. The bid is also meant to tackle humanitarian issues in Gaza and improve its economy.

Adham Abu Selmeya, one of the flotilla organisers, said the event was meant to send a message to all parties involved in the ceasefire efforts.

“We want the world to see the reality of the blockade and the suffering of the people of Gaza, and we will not accept anything less than lifting the blockade once and for all,” he said.

Cross-border violence has spiked in the past few months. Since the weekly protests began on March 30, the Israeli army has killed 161 Palestinians and a Gaza sniper has killed an Israeli soldier.

On Thursday, Egyptian mediation ended a two-day wave of rocket barrages and air strikes between Israel and Gaza militant groups.

Talking through our fears: Resisting the Palestinian complacency of silence

(Source / 12.08.2018)

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TWRP Manager (Requires ROOT) **SALE**

TWRP Manager (Requires ROOT) **SALE**

33,253 5,000,000 - 10,000,000
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TWRP Manager (Requires ROOT) **SALE** v9.8 Apk [Unlock All Fiture] - Application Apk Download

5 Million downloads sale. All premium features 50% off

----------------------------- THIS APP REQUIRES ROOT ACCESS -----------------------------

This app allows you to Install, Backup, Restore, and Wipe your device all using TWRP. We use OpenRecoveryScript to complete these actions. Your device will reboot into TWRP, accomplish the selected tasks and then reboot back to Android. Any issues or errors within the recovery should be addressed with Team Win. We do not make the recovery and cannot support anything beyond our apps.

Tools in the app:
- Install Recovery:
This allows you to install the recovery for supported devices. Not all devices will be supported and giving us a low rating will not change that. We can only add what Team Win provides.

- Install:
This allows you to flash zips. When you use this option, the app will reboot the recovery, flash the zip and then reboot back to Android.

- Backup:
There are two types of backups in this app. Classic backups reboot to the recovery and complete the backup as normal before rebooting to Android. Live Backup (paid feature) backs up your phone while you are still using it. This is a very unique feature and saves on down time and increases the amount of time you spend in Android.

- Restore:
Restores work like classic backups to where the app will reboot into the recovery and complete the restore before rebooting into Android.

- Partitions:
The app scans the available partitions and gives you a list. You can then backup an image of the partition in case there are issues in the future. This is useful for backing up your EFS partition as well as boot and recovery.

There is an option to remove ads to help support our company. It`s only $0.99 and helps keep us running so that we can provide the core app for free.

If you are at all unhappy with your purchase email us at the email address below with if you would like us to fix the issues or just refund your money. Either way we will happily oblige.

Q: My device isn`t listed but it`s officially supported, why?
A: check under your device`s codename. If you still can`t find it, email us and we will assist you.

Q: Why isn`t my device listed? Why don`t you support my device?
A: We do not make the recovery, Team Win does. If they don`t support it, we cannot support it either. You can see the full list here:

Several features are incompatible with different versions of BusyBox. This is why we require you to use the Stericson BusyBox. It is the only one we have tested that works flawlessly.

If you have any issues or questions please either email us and we will assist. We only have so many devices to test on.

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Reading is Fundmental

Sometimes the hardest thing about writing is getting started. First, you fight the internal battle to sit your bum in the chair. Once you actually sit, you have to figure out what to write. Then there’s the issue of having an idea in your head only to forget it the moment you open a document … Continue reading Reading is Fundmental

Ode to Natalie Goldberg

Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within is the one book – other than the Bible – that has had the greatest influence on my life. Prior to reading it, my writing was sporadic at best. Ideas would float in and out of my mind, but I wasn’t committed to a regular schedule. I … Continue reading Ode to Natalie Goldberg


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Dark Chocolate

I formulated this unscented bar with the intention of providing a little extra comfort for those of you who have dry skin or live in more arid, cold and dry climates.

Contains generous lashings of cocoa butter and anti-oxidant rich cocoa powder that will leave you with soft, silky-smooth skin after each shower. It doesn’t smell strongly of chocolate, but you might just catch a whiff of the cocoa butter while showering. (I occasionally stick my nose into my stash of cocoa butter just to inhale its heavenly scent!)

I am proud to say that the cocoa butter I use in all my soap is made from cocoa beans that are grown and produced in Malaysia.

Characteristics and Usage

Use on:Â Face, body, hair. If you have particularly oily or congested skin on your face you might want to avoid using it for cleansing your face — the cocoa butter content may be a little too rich for you, sorry. But if you’re willing to experiment, do go ahead! 🙂

Scent:Â Unscented, but has a light aroma of cocoa butter that doesn’t linger after your bath.

Lather:Â Rich and creamy when used directly on hair or bath puff/sponge. Lathers up quite nicely in the palm of your hand too.

Ingredients: Palm oil, canola oil, coconut oil, cocoa butter, water, sodium hydroxide, cocoa powder, rosemary oleoresin

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text: Over the last many years, supply chain optimization and innovation have transformed retailers’ potential and ability to respond to fluctuations in pricing, demand and customer expectations- except in one significant area: warehousing. Where other aspects of the logistics model are responsive and agile, retailers are still constrained by five and ten year warehouse leases. Owing to an exceptional flexibility achieved through other parts of an intelligently optimized supply chain, the inflexibility of warehouse deals have become starker. Retailers can respond quickly to changes in demand, exchange rates and market opportunity by adapting logistics routes- yet the operations related to warehouse are still fixed. The outcome can be enormous swathes of expensive and empty space; or business opportunities that cannot be grasped largely due to limited available space. This particular flexibility within warehousing is clearly different from the flexibility business models have adopted in other areas of residential and commercial property. From short shop leases to ‘pay by desk’ office space, the way organizations can use property has changed, dramatically. Therefore, it’s the time to apply the same thinking to warehouse market. Take warehousing as a service. This new and innovative solution is revolutionizing the way in which you, being a retailer, consider warehousing space. The service essentially matches retailers’ demands to unoccupied space and, from location, duration and size, the whole process is completely flexible- a retailer pledge as little as 30 days and payment is on demand, on the basis of ‘pay as you go’. When it comes to storage, this model also gives access to many other warehousing services. This entire approach radically transforms the speed with which you can access new warehouse space. Away from a hectic year spent locating and negotiating a new lease, you can locate, secure and move into a warehouse within a week or so. By fixing a maximum or minimum requirement, you can scale up and down the cost of the space- and supportive logistics services- as needed, in response to customer demand, seasonality and other factors. The business is not only agile but also costs are directly proportional to sales in every domain of operation. What about trialing new markets and products? Apart from lengthy research projects, why don’t you think of signing up for a small warehouse space in new location for a month and try some new products on the ground? The concept you want can be in the market within days, rather than months and the upfront investment is very minimal. If it works and market fit is achieved then you can start thinking about scaling up; if not, you can easily try something else or begin with a new idea. In an Amazon dominated retail world, the logistics model’s fluidity and dynamism is turning out to be a critical aspect of success, underpinned by a flurry of ‘pay as you go’ offerings and delivery times becoming shorter every day. Warehousing shouldn’t be different- especially in an environment when pace of change is affecting retailers globally.


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Axel Bar Table

Product Code: 9000030745

Axel Bar Table was inspired by vintage factory styles. The metal base in full industrial style supports a fir wood surface that you can spin to adjust to the right height, making it accessible to the whole family. Part of our Dax range.

Available FREE delivery to door within 25 miles of our stores

After you have placed your order we will contact you to arrange a convenient delivery or collection date.
HJ Home Logo
Dimensions 55 x 55 x 88 cm

Delivery Timescale

Product Code 9000030745

H88cm x W55cm x D55cm

We deliver to addresses within 25 miles of our stores located in Trowbridge and Malmesbury. We also offer national delivery services on selected products for an additional fee.

Delivery Item & OptionChargeImportant Information
Collection from preferred storeFreeSmall items are currently only available for collection from store.
Delivery of small appliances£9.99
Delivery of standard kitchen appliances Local - Free
National - £19.99
Delivery to door only. Excludes range ovens, side by sides & appliances over 60cm wide.
Delivery of range ovens, side by side refrigerators & appliances over 60cm wide£24.99Includes item being unpacked & removal of packaging. Please read our delivery information guide before ordering.
Delivery of furnitureLocal - FreePlease read our delivery information guide before ordering.
Additional ServicesChargeImportant Information
Removal and recycling of disconnected applianceStandard kitchen appliance - £19.99
Range cooker or side by side - £24.99
Disconnection of old appliance and installation of new appliance. £24.99 Includes unpacking of the product and removal of packaging. Excludes built in appliances, range ovens and side by side refrigerators. Contact us for local installation prices.
Removal and disposal of a bed or sofa.£20.00
Assembly - 1 item of furniture£10.00
Assembly - 2 items of furniture£20.00
Assembly - 3 items of furniture or corner sofa£30.00


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Back to All Events

Pearl: A Tribute to Janis Joplin

Pearl: A Tribute to Janis Joplin

Saturday, October 21

Show: 8:30p | Doors: 7:30p

Tickets: $10 ($2 Service Charge Included With Online Tickets. All sales are final, no ticket refunds or exchanges. Seats are on a first-come, first-serve basis, and seats are not guaranteed with ticket purchase.)

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Inspired by her final recordings with the Kosmic Blues Band, her rise to fame with Big Brother and the Holding Company and including gems from a short-lived and unfathomable career, Josi Davis embodies the spirit and energy of one of the great forces of the modern rock movement: Janis Joplin

Josi Davis as Janis Joplin, Stef Denegre (guitar), Jon Thomas (keys), Dan Curland (bass), Steven Tavares (drums)

Earlier Event: October 5
Green Tea Light
Later Event: October 12
Thor Jensen & Sara L'Abriola


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Nick Panken

Nick Panken

(Spirit Family Reunion)

Thursday, September 6

Playing in the Tap Room

Show Time 8pm | Free | 21+

Nick Panken has been singing his songs with his band Spirit Family Reunion for the better part of the past decade.  His songs are bare in structure, with lyrical content evoking the commentary of Woody Guthrie and ruminations of Leonard Cohen.  His recent solo work presents a more stripped-down approach, with material old and new furnished simply with fingerpicked electric guitar and occasional harmonica.

Earlier Event: September 2
Later Event: September 7
Shiny Lapel Trio


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The Courage to Love Creatively

anais nin

I recently finished a novel in which the narrator noted several times that she loved her ex-husband more once they divorced than she did while they were married. She also checked herself, reflecting on how it’s easier to love when love is a concept instead of a daily reality. Or maybe, she posited, space and distance is the place in which love is possible with some particular people. The novel, “My Name is Lucy Barton” by Elizabeth Strout, is not about divorce, or marriage, and so the narrator didn’t go much further with this thinking.

I have, though. Continue reading

My Love, Before I Knew Him

We had dinner last night with his best friend from childhood. These two grew up together in a small town, attended college together in Murfreesboro where they played in bands they say no one listened to, and they both remained in Nashville to work in the music business.

They share an inside language of family, music, friends, exes (girlfriends, band members), trips they’ve taken, dumb things they’ve done, gossip, gin and sometimes work.

This childhood friend’s wife is a photographer – quite exceptional with portraiture – and she pulled out some prints she’s made of the two of them, and others in their friend group, from seven or eight years back. This is before I knew him and his circle, when I was married to someone else.

I was afraid of what they might think if I did what I wanted to do, which was inspect and dissect every pixel of his portrait, so I said a polite, “Great photo!” or whatever, and left it at that. But it was beyond a great photo. This is what I saw:

I saw a classically handsome man of 35 or 36, with hyper-animated, expressive eyebrows, a half-smiling snarl in one corner of his mouth, subtly but suggestively jutting hip, black suit. If his friends read this, they’ll tease him, but he looked to me like a celebrity, like if I had seen him out somewhere at that period of my life, I would have intentionally ignored him so I didn’t look like I was staring.

In that photograph, I saw a man a few years younger, cockier, and perhaps even freer than he is now. I saw a man who had already known for a long time how beautiful and sensitive Chris Bell’s music is, who had already read “A Prayer for Owen Meany” 900 times, and who had given copies of that novel and “I Am The Cosmos” to plenty of other creative, sensitive brunettes.

Knowing someone intimately does not necessarily mean you know the details of their life before you were in it. Sometimes those things reveal themselves in conversations with old friends, in photographs, in the context of someone else’s circumstances, or seemingly from nowhere but fate.

Sometimes mystery is best.

I looked at that photograph of him for but a few seconds, felt jealous that I wasn’t in it, then almost as quickly felt the sort of crush I’d felt when we met, when every little thing about him was new.

He will always have years that are not mine, things about him I don’t know. That is wildly sexy, and I hope someone has taken photographs of those moments he was awesome, long before he met me.

A Prayer for Martyrs

Sometimes we’re living in a space between unhappy and fulfilled, and that space can be worse than miserable.

Nothing is what you really want. And nothing is so bad that you feel justified in seeking or accepting help. It’s an insincere space because you’re not living your life the way you’d wish to live it.

For many loyal, giving, and dedicated parents and professionals I know, these periods of inauthenticity can overtake us when we prioritize others’ needs (or perceived needs) over our own emotional, spiritual, creative – or whatever fundamental needs – are at our core.

Life is full of compromises based on open communication and mutual respect. That’s a good thing.

What isn’t: a willful denial of one’s own happiness on the notion that someone else’s is more important. Especially – especially – when your assumptions about what would make others happy are wrong. (What if they just want you to be happy and you’re denying them that, ironically in the interest of their happiness? I have friends whose parents waited until they were grown before they got divorced. This paradox is the reason why, and it wasn’t good for anyone in the family, including the kids. Similarly I’ve worked with people who worked all hours of day and night. They did this for their teammates, but their teammates resented their workaholism because it made them feel less dedicated.)

A trite but helpful metaphor someone shared with me when I said my own happiness would have to wait because my daughter’s was more important: When the cabin pressure drops, the flight attendant tells you to put the oxygen mask on yourself before you try to assist someone else. Why? Because you can’t adequately assist another person if you yourself are in need of assistance.

Think about the people who are the most sincerely generous – i.e. generous without strings attached – in your life. I bet they are the most personally fulfilled. It’s nice to think their lives are whole because they are giving. But I have to admit that in my own life, anyway, it has been the inverse.

A hope for the selfless and yet unfulfilled people I love is that they come to know this: Once we stop living for other people, we begin to truly love them.

It’s been a tough lesson for me to learn, but it’s been the most important.

The vanity of crushes

A friend of mine found himself instantly and achingly attracted to a woman he met at a business mixer. She was an accomplished young executive, like himself. An extrovert who never met a stranger, like himself. Interested in politics, well versed in novels and music, beautiful and confident to a point bordering on cockiness. Like himself.

The attraction horrified him, especially once he realized it was returned.

She was single. He was married.

Continue reading

A Southern great-grandmother: “If they were gay and whatever, so what. She was one of us.”

I’ve asked my grandmother several times over the years to tell me about Maude Pick, her aunt Pearl’s lifelong companion and housemate.

Maybe because the issue has been discussed so persistently lately on the cable news networks she watches between Andy Griffith reruns from her easy chair on her lake house porch, but this Easter weekend – following the U.S. Supreme Court’s hearing of arguments on the Defense Of Marriage Act – she seemed more relaxed when talking about the relationship between Pearl and “Pick” (as Maude was known).

The video here was shot by my daughter on that lakeside porch in teeny Dadeville, Alabama. My mom and I are in a few shots, as is my parents’ golden retriever. It’s a little grainy and jumpy, and I wish I had photos of Pearl and Pick, but I love this all the same. Regardless of what you think about this issue, I hope it inspires you to ask your grandparents interesting questions, and to record their responses.

Life is short. Love is always.

Butterflies: A short pictorial on love and biology

Have you ever seen a group of butterflies coalescing en masse, like this?

Ok, that’s an extreme example, taken – oddly enough – from an NPR story about Vladimir Nabokov. You know him as the author of “Lolita”, but he was also a renowned student of the butterfly.

Many of you, I suspect, are renowned students of the butterfly as well. Continue reading

The Top Seven Rainbow Bright Moments of 2012

I’ve decided 2012 is the Year of the Rainbow.

For my friends and me, some of the happiest moments have come at the tail end of some deluges, both figuratively and literally.

Here are the top seven. …

Continue reading