Hey everyone! I went to the dermatologist yesterday to have some moles checked out. I just wanted to remind everyone to keep an eye on your skin and use sunscreen and remember to check for moles that look irregular in size, shape or color. The PA told me that skin cancer can also present itself as something that looks like a small rash, irritated skin or a small pimple that just won't heal.
I don't have my results back yet, but the doctor didn't seem overly concerned, so neither will I!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Thursday, February 7, 2008
tastes like chicken
For lent - I've given up meat.
This is going to be difficult for me. I didn't realize how much meat I actually eat, but almost everything has some meat in it.
Christie - thanks for the information - that's part of the reason I made the decision to do this -
"Producing 2.2lb of beef generates as much greenhouse gas as driving a car non-stop for three hours, it was claimed yesterday. Japanese scientists used a range of data to calculate the environmental impact of a single purchase of beef. Taking into account all the processes involved, they said, four average sized steaks generated greenhouse gases with a warming potential equivalent to 80.25lb of carbon dioxide. gas pump
This also consumed 169 megajoules of energy. That means that 2.2lb of beef is responsible for greenhouse gas emissions which have the same effect as the carbon dioxide released by an ordinary car travelling at 50 miles per hour for 155 miles, a journey lasting three hours."
Here's a link to the place I got the above info. They have several articles substantiating the details about meat & how not eating it will help save our ozone. Crazy stuff!
When I do this - I'll also be thinking of and praying for various countries around the world where lack of food is a problem. How can people starve while the West gets fat? It's so sad. This will be challenging and humbling for me for sure!
This is going to be difficult for me. I didn't realize how much meat I actually eat, but almost everything has some meat in it.
Christie - thanks for the information - that's part of the reason I made the decision to do this -
"Producing 2.2lb of beef generates as much greenhouse gas as driving a car non-stop for three hours, it was claimed yesterday. Japanese scientists used a range of data to calculate the environmental impact of a single purchase of beef. Taking into account all the processes involved, they said, four average sized steaks generated greenhouse gases with a warming potential equivalent to 80.25lb of carbon dioxide. gas pump
This also consumed 169 megajoules of energy. That means that 2.2lb of beef is responsible for greenhouse gas emissions which have the same effect as the carbon dioxide released by an ordinary car travelling at 50 miles per hour for 155 miles, a journey lasting three hours."
Here's a link to the place I got the above info. They have several articles substantiating the details about meat & how not eating it will help save our ozone. Crazy stuff!
When I do this - I'll also be thinking of and praying for various countries around the world where lack of food is a problem. How can people starve while the West gets fat? It's so sad. This will be challenging and humbling for me for sure!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Africa on my mind...
So, house church tonight got me thinking. I've talked with Clint about this a little bit, and he told me that I should blog it out. My concern is that it would make me look like a horrible person - but he said that it is honest and real, which is what I expect from others - and that many other people are probably struggling with these same feelings/thoughts.
I've prayed to be given a heart for Africa. I definitely see a need - there is no way to deny the NEEDS there. My problem is that I feel like if I were to serve there I would be going for the wrong reasons. I realize that perceptions change dramatically based on experience, and I have never experienced Africa first-hand. That being said...I have this warped image of Africa as being somewhere between the Sally Struthers "Feed the Children" sobumentaries where people are so destitute that they lack all hope and the homeless of the U.S. - who many although they don't have much are choosy about what they will accept.
Part of me wants to package up EVERYTHING and ship it to Africa to help several people. Part of me thinks...why would they want our stuff - it's not new and that is selfish. Clint argued that it was a bit selfish of me to think that they do not want/need my "stuff". He asked me if I would send my used tire? I said - no, I don't think I would. He asked "Why - that one used tire could provide shoes for 50+ people." I said...because that is demeaning - why wouldn't I just send shoes? He challenged me by saying - are you saying that their needs are not big enough to warrant your items that you are not even using? Believe me- I would not withold a tire if I knew it would help that many people - I guess part of me just doesn't want to be insulting to them - or demeaning. I guess Clint's point was that we as American's don't fully realize how great the need there is. This is definitely true of me. Why withhold something that will make a difference to someone else. Clint took it to the other extreme and said "What if you had a brand new pair of Prada pumps and you were faced with the choice - would you send those? I said - I guess so but What? They don't need $600.00 shoes - or pumps for that matter - that could feed 60 people or more! His point was that sending designer shoes to a village is nice, but doesn't really meet the people where there need is. If they need water and I send designer shoes - do they really appreciate that any more? no! You can't really rationalize giving....you just have to open your heart up to be willing to give....willing to serve....and get over your own inhibitions- not worrying that what you have to offer isn't good enough and not letting your perception of your socio-economic differences get in the way.
The other problem I'm encountering is the exact opposite of the other problem I just mentioned. I'm think at times that I do tend toward feelings of benevolence regarding Africa. I somehow separate myself from Africa's problem. I'm not sure if this is a result of being an American with little real experience with Africa, but I'm afraid that if I were there I would feel that way...and I hate that feeling. I know Africa deserves more than my pity. They deserve my heart.
I am a compassionate person - as I mentioned earlier I do think it would be impossible to ignore the needs in Africa - and I have heard compelling stories that really draw me to Africa - that lead me to pray for Africa's people, but so much of Africa is still a dream or a myth to me....lions, giraffes, wilderness, tribal life....these are images that come to mind....how do I move beyond this - beyond feeling so separate - to truly feeling connected?
I am praying for Africa - and I am praying for God to continue working on my heart. I am also praying for an opportunity for experience. To take me close enough to realize that Africa is more than a story....that it's not far from me...that it's people are real and in need and I can help.
I've prayed to be given a heart for Africa. I definitely see a need - there is no way to deny the NEEDS there. My problem is that I feel like if I were to serve there I would be going for the wrong reasons. I realize that perceptions change dramatically based on experience, and I have never experienced Africa first-hand. That being said...I have this warped image of Africa as being somewhere between the Sally Struthers "Feed the Children" sobumentaries where people are so destitute that they lack all hope and the homeless of the U.S. - who many although they don't have much are choosy about what they will accept.
Part of me wants to package up EVERYTHING and ship it to Africa to help several people. Part of me thinks...why would they want our stuff - it's not new and that is selfish. Clint argued that it was a bit selfish of me to think that they do not want/need my "stuff". He asked me if I would send my used tire? I said - no, I don't think I would. He asked "Why - that one used tire could provide shoes for 50+ people." I said...because that is demeaning - why wouldn't I just send shoes? He challenged me by saying - are you saying that their needs are not big enough to warrant your items that you are not even using? Believe me- I would not withold a tire if I knew it would help that many people - I guess part of me just doesn't want to be insulting to them - or demeaning. I guess Clint's point was that we as American's don't fully realize how great the need there is. This is definitely true of me. Why withhold something that will make a difference to someone else. Clint took it to the other extreme and said "What if you had a brand new pair of Prada pumps and you were faced with the choice - would you send those? I said - I guess so but What? They don't need $600.00 shoes - or pumps for that matter - that could feed 60 people or more! His point was that sending designer shoes to a village is nice, but doesn't really meet the people where there need is. If they need water and I send designer shoes - do they really appreciate that any more? no! You can't really rationalize giving....you just have to open your heart up to be willing to give....willing to serve....and get over your own inhibitions- not worrying that what you have to offer isn't good enough and not letting your perception of your socio-economic differences get in the way.
The other problem I'm encountering is the exact opposite of the other problem I just mentioned. I'm think at times that I do tend toward feelings of benevolence regarding Africa. I somehow separate myself from Africa's problem. I'm not sure if this is a result of being an American with little real experience with Africa, but I'm afraid that if I were there I would feel that way...and I hate that feeling. I know Africa deserves more than my pity. They deserve my heart.
I am a compassionate person - as I mentioned earlier I do think it would be impossible to ignore the needs in Africa - and I have heard compelling stories that really draw me to Africa - that lead me to pray for Africa's people, but so much of Africa is still a dream or a myth to me....lions, giraffes, wilderness, tribal life....these are images that come to mind....how do I move beyond this - beyond feeling so separate - to truly feeling connected?
I am praying for Africa - and I am praying for God to continue working on my heart. I am also praying for an opportunity for experience. To take me close enough to realize that Africa is more than a story....that it's not far from me...that it's people are real and in need and I can help.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Homestead....
So, last night I got out my sewing project while Clint and I watched The Godfather. We've been making our way through the top 100 movies on the IMDB. I had just told Clint how cool the cutting tools were that are round and look a little like a pizza cutter - and Clint said - "Yeah & dangerous. Make sure you don't cut through the carpet" and I said..."I'm being careful" - famous last words. I proceeded to cut around my fabric and batting. When I pulled the fabric up...I discovered that as I was moving the cutting board along, I had accidentally scooted it under Jonas' blanket and sliced through it along with my fabric. We had to throw it away. I felt awful. Needless to say...I'm saving the rest to work on later. This project just got a little more expensive! ;)
On to more pleasant things...
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For those that own a house & live in the house they own in Oklahoma. I just wanted to make sure you all know about Homestead Exemption - which can save you up to $1000 on your home's assessed valuation & reduce the taxes you pay. Homestead exemption will also provide you some protection from creditors- in the state of Oklahoma. You can file only if you have owned your home and resided in it from Jan.1 on...and you have to file by March 15th.
Here is the definition of Homestead exemption on Wikipedia:
You can get the form from the Oklahoma County Assessor's office Here
The deadline is coming up. I just wanted to let everyone know in case this is something that might be useful for them.
-------------------------------------
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
so-sew
wah-wah....no pics of my creation just yet...I only got about 1/4 of the way through my project. Oh well, hopefully I'll finish it by this time next week....then pictures. ;)
News Flash Jan 2008!!!
So much has happened since I last posted. I know...it's terrible.
First, and most importantly - Clint and I invited the most precious gift from God into our lives on April 20, 2007. Jonas Rush Wichert was born at Baptist Integris Hospital at 4:04 p.m., weighing in at 7lbs 6oz and 21 inches long.
My pregnancy and birth experience were AWESOME and I would love to encourage you if you are scared about either process. Just let me know if I can be of encouragement to you!
I'm no longer with Vox. I've started my own business- Dovinci Dove Releases (Dove Releases for weddings and special events. Thanks to our amazing friends Danny & Alisha Adams (for being awesome friends) and for the beautiful pictures for the website!
Jonas is 9 months old now, and he is the most pleasant, playful little guy. He has more love than he knows what to do with and he is worthy of all of it! God has really blessed our lives with this little bundle of joy. We couldn't be more happy and humbled to be his parents. Thanks God!!! =)
I revisited this site after ignoring it for so long, because I got re-inspired last night at a house church meeting! We've been visiting Bridgeway for a couple of months, and last night we spent an evening with a bunch of great people in the Injera house church who have hearts for Africa (Ethiopia in particular), and orphans. Here's a link to for the Injera House Church blog and to the leaders'site Ethopia or Bust as well! We had a great time getting to know some of the adults and we're thankful that they welcomed us into their home. Jonas had an awesome time playing with Silas and Connor. It was great for him to get out and play with other little guys. They gave me an idea of what to look forward to as Jonas gets a little older. We've got brilliant beautiful baby boys!
Yesterday I had my first Yoga class ever. I'm a lot more sore than I expected to be. =) Which is a good thing. Getting out the door was not easy, but it made me feel great. I definitely plan to go back!
Today I'm off to learn how to sew! My wonderful friend Crystal and I signed up for a class at Hancock's Fabrics. I can't wait to put my sewing machine to use. Thank you to Kari (Colby & Addison) for watching Jonas! I know he's going to have a blast with you! Hopefully I'll have some great pictures to post of the nap mat I am going to be attempting to make today!
More to come later - gotta run to class!
First, and most importantly - Clint and I invited the most precious gift from God into our lives on April 20, 2007. Jonas Rush Wichert was born at Baptist Integris Hospital at 4:04 p.m., weighing in at 7lbs 6oz and 21 inches long.
My pregnancy and birth experience were AWESOME and I would love to encourage you if you are scared about either process. Just let me know if I can be of encouragement to you!
I'm no longer with Vox. I've started my own business- Dovinci Dove Releases (Dove Releases for weddings and special events. Thanks to our amazing friends Danny & Alisha Adams (for being awesome friends) and for the beautiful pictures for the website!
Jonas is 9 months old now, and he is the most pleasant, playful little guy. He has more love than he knows what to do with and he is worthy of all of it! God has really blessed our lives with this little bundle of joy. We couldn't be more happy and humbled to be his parents. Thanks God!!! =)
I revisited this site after ignoring it for so long, because I got re-inspired last night at a house church meeting! We've been visiting Bridgeway for a couple of months, and last night we spent an evening with a bunch of great people in the Injera house church who have hearts for Africa (Ethiopia in particular), and orphans. Here's a link to for the Injera House Church blog and to the leaders'site Ethopia or Bust as well! We had a great time getting to know some of the adults and we're thankful that they welcomed us into their home. Jonas had an awesome time playing with Silas and Connor. It was great for him to get out and play with other little guys. They gave me an idea of what to look forward to as Jonas gets a little older. We've got brilliant beautiful baby boys!
Yesterday I had my first Yoga class ever. I'm a lot more sore than I expected to be. =) Which is a good thing. Getting out the door was not easy, but it made me feel great. I definitely plan to go back!
Today I'm off to learn how to sew! My wonderful friend Crystal and I signed up for a class at Hancock's Fabrics. I can't wait to put my sewing machine to use. Thank you to Kari (Colby & Addison) for watching Jonas! I know he's going to have a blast with you! Hopefully I'll have some great pictures to post of the nap mat I am going to be attempting to make today!
More to come later - gotta run to class!
Friday, November 10, 2006
Bundle of Joy
Hey!
It's been so long! So much has happened & so much is still happening. These are very exciting times!
Beck's beautiful baby girl was born - Taylor! She's so cute!
My kitchen has been completely completely finished & well-used for quite some time. It looks great and it's a joy to use!
We even laid down new flooring in our living room, hallway & bedroom - which is a really nice departure from our poorly soiled & stained nearly white carpet! 
The floors are now a cherry color & look beautiful! My husband is quite a handy-man. Of course he borrowed some help from our good friends, but I'm always impressed!
I've switched jobs - now I'm a Customer Service Rep.for Vox Printing. The company I'm with is so great! They treat employees like family & even celebrate each & every birthday with homemade dessert for everyone! Truely a switch for me, and so much less stress - really a welcome change.
But the best news of all......
We're expecting a beautiful baby! April 23! We still don't know whether we're having a boy or a girl, but we will be so thrilled either way. We found out on vacation. We were on a road trip & actually made it all the way to Canada - where we found out!
I just wanted to share my BIG NEWS! =) Not sure if anyone even checks this anymore, but it helps keep me up to date w/ my own life - which is a good thing!
That's it for now! - M
It's been so long! So much has happened & so much is still happening. These are very exciting times!
Beck's beautiful baby girl was born - Taylor! She's so cute!
My kitchen has been completely completely finished & well-used for quite some time. It looks great and it's a joy to use!
We even laid down new flooring in our living room, hallway & bedroom - which is a really nice departure from our poorly soiled & stained nearly white carpet! 
The floors are now a cherry color & look beautiful! My husband is quite a handy-man. Of course he borrowed some help from our good friends, but I'm always impressed!
I've switched jobs - now I'm a Customer Service Rep.for Vox Printing. The company I'm with is so great! They treat employees like family & even celebrate each & every birthday with homemade dessert for everyone! Truely a switch for me, and so much less stress - really a welcome change.
But the best news of all......
We're expecting a beautiful baby! April 23! We still don't know whether we're having a boy or a girl, but we will be so thrilled either way. We found out on vacation. We were on a road trip & actually made it all the way to Canada - where we found out!I just wanted to share my BIG NEWS! =) Not sure if anyone even checks this anymore, but it helps keep me up to date w/ my own life - which is a good thing!
That's it for now! - M
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