For born as a son, and led forth as a lamb,
Sacrificed as a sheep, buried as a man,
He rose from the dead as God,
Being by nature God and Man.
Who is all things:
In that he judges, Law,
in that he teaches, Word,
in that he saves, Grace,
in that he begets, Father
in that he is begotten, Son,
in that he suffers, the sacrificial sheep,
in that he is buried, Man,
in that he arises, God.
This is Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory to the ages of ages.
[Melito of Sardis, Paschal Homily, 169 A.D.]
high adventure, fearless cooking, insight and humor accumulated throughout a 27-year journey...
20 April 2015
22 January 2015
Currently reading
I have not taken a course in philosophy before. This Spring semester will include my first.
19 January 2015
The Gradual Commercialisation of the Internet
Today, I logged on to my Twitter account. It took me quite a bit of scrolling to come across a post from an actual person. I think I've become disenchanted with the Internet itself.
Reminiscing about the good old days, I do recall when the Internet was fresh, exciting, and new. I was in junior high, and the anonymity offered by AIM and Yahoo chat rooms made so exhilarating the chance to pick one's own username. My friends and I discovered a place to create our own, simple webpages for free; this proved to be a place to learn a bit of basic HTML. We'd impress each other with cool fonts, glorious color schemes, and GIFs of dancing hamsters and bananas.
In high school, the focus turned to LiveJournal and Xanga, the old-school venues for blogging. Anyone online could post jokes, stories, or plain ol' accounts of fun in real life. Friends all shared these sites with each other, but we were anonymous to the rest of the world.
In college, Facebook appeared. Its novelty was found in the disappearance of the former anonymity of Internet users. We connected with people taking the same classes as us, and posted photos of the ridiculous things we did the night before (which, by the way, required using a USB cord to download the photos off one's camera ...remember those?). Facebook was the exciting, new social media for anyone with a .edu email address.
Then, high schoolers appeared on Facebook, and it became less cool. Then, our parents appeared on Facebook, and it lost any "cool" appeal whatsoever. Then, companies appeared on Facebook, and it became a sea of advertisements and news articles.
As a "millennial" who grew up with the Internet, I find myself scrolling and scrolling through Facebook every few days, hoping to see something interesting - but there is nothing! It's become so boring recently. It's all re-postings of Buzzfeed articles, viral videos (of people I don't know), commercials, and ridiculousness. "Social media" has lost all that once was "social." It used to be about sharing stories with friends through written word. Now, our "feeds" feed us commericalism (which we consume enough of when we watch television).
The landscape of the US has been marred by the ugliness of billboards and advertisements (I so prefer driving in remote areas where no company would bother to put up a sign). We see brand marketing everywhere, from our TV and computer screens to the tiny computers in our pockets to the trash on the side of the road (even there, those McDonald's and Starbucks logos stand out plainly).
I won't tirade against capitalism, but I am tired of companies trying to get me to buy stuff everywhere I look. Marketing has its place, and gone are the days when companies just had a choice of what size newspaper ad to purchase. But trust me, dear corporations of the world, I will never buy a new car; I will never purchase a "diet system"; I do not eat fast food; I have no interest in purchasing clothing online.
I still remember the days when I'd sit down at the desk, fire up the computer, and wait for the monitor to warm up to see what new excitement awaited me. "Going on-line" was a former pastime of mine; and I'll probably continue to remember the "Hamster Dance" fondly.
However, all the noise of the new Internet does give good reason to keep investing in and spending time in books (paper books with ink on pages!); and to spend time playing outside. < / rant >
Reminiscing about the good old days, I do recall when the Internet was fresh, exciting, and new. I was in junior high, and the anonymity offered by AIM and Yahoo chat rooms made so exhilarating the chance to pick one's own username. My friends and I discovered a place to create our own, simple webpages for free; this proved to be a place to learn a bit of basic HTML. We'd impress each other with cool fonts, glorious color schemes, and GIFs of dancing hamsters and bananas.
In high school, the focus turned to LiveJournal and Xanga, the old-school venues for blogging. Anyone online could post jokes, stories, or plain ol' accounts of fun in real life. Friends all shared these sites with each other, but we were anonymous to the rest of the world.
In college, Facebook appeared. Its novelty was found in the disappearance of the former anonymity of Internet users. We connected with people taking the same classes as us, and posted photos of the ridiculous things we did the night before (which, by the way, required using a USB cord to download the photos off one's camera ...remember those?). Facebook was the exciting, new social media for anyone with a .edu email address.
Then, high schoolers appeared on Facebook, and it became less cool. Then, our parents appeared on Facebook, and it lost any "cool" appeal whatsoever. Then, companies appeared on Facebook, and it became a sea of advertisements and news articles.
As a "millennial" who grew up with the Internet, I find myself scrolling and scrolling through Facebook every few days, hoping to see something interesting - but there is nothing! It's become so boring recently. It's all re-postings of Buzzfeed articles, viral videos (of people I don't know), commercials, and ridiculousness. "Social media" has lost all that once was "social." It used to be about sharing stories with friends through written word. Now, our "feeds" feed us commericalism (which we consume enough of when we watch television).
The landscape of the US has been marred by the ugliness of billboards and advertisements (I so prefer driving in remote areas where no company would bother to put up a sign). We see brand marketing everywhere, from our TV and computer screens to the tiny computers in our pockets to the trash on the side of the road (even there, those McDonald's and Starbucks logos stand out plainly).
I won't tirade against capitalism, but I am tired of companies trying to get me to buy stuff everywhere I look. Marketing has its place, and gone are the days when companies just had a choice of what size newspaper ad to purchase. But trust me, dear corporations of the world, I will never buy a new car; I will never purchase a "diet system"; I do not eat fast food; I have no interest in purchasing clothing online.
I still remember the days when I'd sit down at the desk, fire up the computer, and wait for the monitor to warm up to see what new excitement awaited me. "Going on-line" was a former pastime of mine; and I'll probably continue to remember the "Hamster Dance" fondly.
However, all the noise of the new Internet does give good reason to keep investing in and spending time in books (paper books with ink on pages!); and to spend time playing outside. < / rant >
05 January 2015
2015
Must be time for my annual blog post! Apparently, January is the only month in which I have enough time to consider doing so.
Nearing one year here in Charlotte. We travelled to Pennsylvania for five days of Christmas, only to experience mostly 50-degree days. Funny: on the day the temp was in the thirties, Greg put on his winter coat and found in its pocket the rental agreement from our moving truck! The last time we experienced cold was the day we moved to Charlotte... bahahahaha....
Nearing one year here in Charlotte. We travelled to Pennsylvania for five days of Christmas, only to experience mostly 50-degree days. Funny: on the day the temp was in the thirties, Greg put on his winter coat and found in its pocket the rental agreement from our moving truck! The last time we experienced cold was the day we moved to Charlotte... bahahahaha....
23 April 2014
The Charlotte Chronicles: II
1. Traffic
It's everywhere. It's constant. It takes at least 20 minutes to get anywhere before 9:00 PM.
People like to stop. Just stop. There's more risk of rear-ending other drivers here than on Amish country roads with horse-drawn buggies beyond every curve.
Drivers don't use turn signals here. Ever.
2. Food
It took some time to get used to the grocery scene here. Fortunately, we have both Aldi AND Trader Joe's within driving distance! I can find most basic items (beans, dairy, great produce) between those two stores. However, I have to go to a more "mainstream" grocer (Bi-Lo) to get basic baking items like flour and yeast.
Harris Teeter is akin to Weis, in that it's a local, family-owned chain whose selection is okay and whose prices are unnecessarily expensive.
I really miss the Mennonite health food stores and farm stands of Berks County.
3. Church
We've visited a few PCA churches (where fellow seminarians are involved), and have figured out that we're truly more in the reformed baptist tribe. We have been attending a small, young, diverse church that we LOVE (truly a pillar of God's truth in the community, serving in many ways), but we may yet visit a few more. One congregation that Greg wants to visit is offering a *paid* (!!!!) internship to a seminarian, which is really enticing for us. I looked at their website, and photos of the staff, choir, and preschool make it appear to be an all-white church. :/. How does that happen in a large, diverse city?
4. Climate
Spring is beautiful, but pollen is pervasive. I simultaneously want to play outside and hide under a blanket all day. *sniff*
08 April 2014
09 February 2014
Sunday Seven 9-2-2014
Ahoy! Currently posting from my new home in Charlotte; here are a quick seven things to try:
1. This book: Elyse Fitzpatrick's Because He Loves Me. Elyse is an exceptional speaker (!) and a gifted writer. Here, she beautifully brings to light gospel truths about how Christ truly transforms us, even in our everyday lives, as we walk with Him. A very refreshingly truthful book.
1. This book: Elyse Fitzpatrick's Because He Loves Me. Elyse is an exceptional speaker (!) and a gifted writer. Here, she beautifully brings to light gospel truths about how Christ truly transforms us, even in our everyday lives, as we walk with Him. A very refreshingly truthful book.
2. This movie: Wes Anderson's film adaptation of The Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl is AMAZING. It's basically an adult action movie gift-wrapped as a stop-motion animation children's film. The hilarious dialogue will dazzle you. "APPLE JUICE FLOOD." Treat yourself and rent this movie!
3. This game: The Game of Things provided a group of friends with two and a half hours of straight laughter last night. It plays similiarly to Apples to Apples. (My cheeks hurt from laughing so hard)
4. This TV program: Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood.
5. This dip: guacamole. I could eat a liter in one sitting.
6. This cheese: Brie! A French classic - try it on those Snaps pretels. Mmmm!
7. This organization: The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department's Animal Care and Control Division helped us adopt our first baby this weekend! Meet Phoebe:
Stories of this crazy kitty to follow!
Cheers!
Katy
Stories of this crazy kitty to follow!
Cheers!
Katy
07 February 2014
Why I Never Follow Recipes
Tonight was curry night in the McI household! I love curry - it's delicious in its rich spiciness; and you can pretty much make it with whatever veggies you like. Here's the recipe I started with:
Red Lentil Coconut Curry
1 large onion, minced - Saute in 1 tbsp coconut oil until transparent.
1 tbsp garlic (minced)
1 tbsp ginger root (peeled & minced)
2 tsp curry powder
1/2 tsp each turmeric, cumin, pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper
1/4 tsp cinnamon
2-3 bay leaves - Add spices & reduce heat.
400 ml can coconut milk
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 cup tomato sauce - Add & simmer 20 minutes.
2 cups dried red lentils
5 cups water - Cook for 15 minutes.
1 medium head cauliflower (chopped)
1 large sweet potato (diced)
1/4 head cabbage (sliced)
1-2 cups peas - Cook over medium heat until tender; serve over brown rice.
(from one of my favorite cookbooks, Simply in Season)
"That recipe sounds very tasty!" you may say. "Why wouldn't you follow it?" you may ask...
Well, the main ingredient - lentils - is something I never buy. I never buy lentils because my husband thinks they're gross. "Too pasty!" But he likes beans; so in this dish, I replaced the lentils with some good ol' organic white beans.
What else did I alter? I didn't use the whole onion. I have a very low tolerance for violence against onions. It makes me quite sad. I got through chopping about 1/3 of a large onion before I couldn't take it anymore. I figured that was enough.
I did follow the complete spice palate listed in this recipe - even the stuff I thought might taste weird. That cinnamon really makes the flavors POP - don't skimp on it!
In addition to the coconut milk, I added a few scoops of coconut cream (which is like BUTTER) for a little extra coconut flavor and richness. Mmm!
I did include the sweet potato and cauliflower (from frozen); but skipped the cabbage and peas, because I didn't have any. I also skipped on the tomato juice, because I thought that a tomato-coconut mix would taste nasty (if you're feeling bold, try it and let me know how it goes!).
What's the moral of the story here?? Why alter so many parts of a proven, published recipe?
Because I can! I know that a lot of folks successfully do their grocery shopping according to the recipes in their weekly meal plans; but I've always preferred shopping according to our tastes, what's in season (local!), and what's on sale.
We usually get frozen cauliflower, sweet potatoes, and rice; so those aspects of the recipe were easy to follow. Cabbage? Not in season now - though we sure ate plenty of cabbage from our garden this fall!
My whole point is that I encourage boldness in the kitchen. Even if you don't have all the ingredients, go for it! Try substituting spices and ingredients here and there. The results can be surprisingly delicious!
Red Lentil Coconut Curry
1 large onion, minced - Saute in 1 tbsp coconut oil until transparent.
1 tbsp garlic (minced)
1 tbsp ginger root (peeled & minced)
2 tsp curry powder
1/2 tsp each turmeric, cumin, pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper
1/4 tsp cinnamon
2-3 bay leaves - Add spices & reduce heat.
400 ml can coconut milk
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 cup tomato sauce - Add & simmer 20 minutes.
2 cups dried red lentils
5 cups water - Cook for 15 minutes.
1 medium head cauliflower (chopped)
1 large sweet potato (diced)
1/4 head cabbage (sliced)
1-2 cups peas - Cook over medium heat until tender; serve over brown rice.
(from one of my favorite cookbooks, Simply in Season)
"That recipe sounds very tasty!" you may say. "Why wouldn't you follow it?" you may ask...
Well, the main ingredient - lentils - is something I never buy. I never buy lentils because my husband thinks they're gross. "Too pasty!" But he likes beans; so in this dish, I replaced the lentils with some good ol' organic white beans.
What else did I alter? I didn't use the whole onion. I have a very low tolerance for violence against onions. It makes me quite sad. I got through chopping about 1/3 of a large onion before I couldn't take it anymore. I figured that was enough.
I did follow the complete spice palate listed in this recipe - even the stuff I thought might taste weird. That cinnamon really makes the flavors POP - don't skimp on it!
In addition to the coconut milk, I added a few scoops of coconut cream (which is like BUTTER) for a little extra coconut flavor and richness. Mmm!
I did include the sweet potato and cauliflower (from frozen); but skipped the cabbage and peas, because I didn't have any. I also skipped on the tomato juice, because I thought that a tomato-coconut mix would taste nasty (if you're feeling bold, try it and let me know how it goes!).
What's the moral of the story here?? Why alter so many parts of a proven, published recipe?
Because I can! I know that a lot of folks successfully do their grocery shopping according to the recipes in their weekly meal plans; but I've always preferred shopping according to our tastes, what's in season (local!), and what's on sale.
We usually get frozen cauliflower, sweet potatoes, and rice; so those aspects of the recipe were easy to follow. Cabbage? Not in season now - though we sure ate plenty of cabbage from our garden this fall!
My whole point is that I encourage boldness in the kitchen. Even if you don't have all the ingredients, go for it! Try substituting spices and ingredients here and there. The results can be surprisingly delicious!
04 February 2014
The Charlotte Chronicles: I
The Charlotte Chronicles: a moving story.
Once upon a time, a boy and a girl decided that they were tired of living in the land of the ice and snow. They wanted an adventure! And they wanted it to take place somewhere subtropical.
In the bleakest of winters - you know, that one with all the polar vortexes - they packed a truck with furniture and boxes of belongings.
At 7:00 am, they departed from Pennsylvania. It was 2 degrees Fahrenheit outside.
They drove and drove... and drove. The truck roared and roared.
It was a boring journey.
But the destination was worth it! In North Carolina, they stayed with gracious friends; and the next day received moving help from several hospitable strangers.
It was 65 degrees Fahrenheit outside.
That's more like it.
Once upon a time, a boy and a girl decided that they were tired of living in the land of the ice and snow. They wanted an adventure! And they wanted it to take place somewhere subtropical.
In the bleakest of winters - you know, that one with all the polar vortexes - they packed a truck with furniture and boxes of belongings.
At 7:00 am, they departed from Pennsylvania. It was 2 degrees Fahrenheit outside.
They drove and drove... and drove. The truck roared and roared.
It was a boring journey.
But the destination was worth it! In North Carolina, they stayed with gracious friends; and the next day received moving help from several hospitable strangers.
It was 65 degrees Fahrenheit outside.
That's more like it.
 |
| We made it! |
 |
| They gave us a brand new stove! |
 |
| Same ol' boxes; different place. |
 |
| Celebration |
 |
| The story continues... |
26 January 2014
Sunday Seven 27-1-2014
Today begins a new series - a way for me to share things I love/enjoy/recommend. Introducing... the Sunday Seven! Read on for inspirations and recommendations...
1. A book: Rachel Carson's The Sea Around Us beautifully combines biology, poetry, and history (geologic history, the histories of sailing and oceanography). I read it while in Maine this summer, and it inspired me to closely examine and enjoy tiny organisms (whelks and seaweed-dwelling bugs) in addition to the vastness of the sea. Ms. Carson's writings motivate me to spend hours scouring seaside boulders, trees, and lichens.
1. A book: Rachel Carson's The Sea Around Us beautifully combines biology, poetry, and history (geologic history, the histories of sailing and oceanography). I read it while in Maine this summer, and it inspired me to closely examine and enjoy tiny organisms (whelks and seaweed-dwelling bugs) in addition to the vastness of the sea. Ms. Carson's writings motivate me to spend hours scouring seaside boulders, trees, and lichens.
2. A movie: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is a witty, British drama about a group of 60+ Britons settling in India for their retirement, and discovering that life's biggest adventures can whisk you away in your golden years. The cast - Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Bill Nighy - initially attracted my attention, and carried the film beautifully. Seeing Bill N. and Penelope Wilton play a married couple made me wonder if I had discovered an alternate ending to Shaun of the Dead.
3. A game: The Sims - using fancy, modern technology to play... with dolls.
4. A TV program: Modern Family is hilarious! Recently, I enjoyed a scene that overlaid Cam tenderly singing "Ave Maria" whilst Mitch destroyed their living room with a tennis racquet, trying to kill a rogue pigeon. I
haven't laughed that hard since the first four times I watched Arrested
Development (no, not the first four episodes...)
5. This organization: Defy Ventures, Inc. trains and equips criminal offenders to become entrepreneurs after their release from prison. Founder Catherine Hoke spoke at church this morning, and told us how the program releases her clients from the cycle of poverty, welfare, and crime; and suits them up as successful business owners, creating new jobs and pumping tax money into the economy. Did you know that in New York, it costs $167,000 a year to incarcerate one person? Check out Defy Ventures - the stories of redemption are beautiful!
6. This news article: "South Sudan ceasefire takes effect" - hopeful!
7. These cookies: SAMOAS and THIN MINTS. Thank God for Girl Scout cookie season.
20 January 2014
Bloglovin' ...here we go!
Boy, has it been a busy past few weeks! Looking forward to a real update soon, but for now... just a quick post to announce my entry into the world that is Bloglovin'. It seems to be a fun and simple way to find and follow writers of interest on the interwebs. (I am loving the app!) Check it out, if you will!
Follow my blog with Bloglovin
Follow my blog with Bloglovin
14 January 2014
One Day
Sometimes I lay under the moon and thank God I'm breathing;
Then I pray, "Don't take me soon, 'cause I am here for a reason."
Sometimes, in my tears I drown, but I never let it get me down.
So when negativity surrounds, I know some day it'll all turn around, because...
All my life I've been waiting for, I've been praying for, for the people to say
That we don't wanna fight no more; there'll be no more wars and our children will play.
One day, one day, one day...
It's not about win or lose, because we all lose when they feed on the souls of the innocent,
Blood-drenched pavement; keep on moving through, the waters stay raging...
In this maze you can lose your way; it might drive you crazy, but don't let it faze you, no way...
Sometimes, in my tears I drown, but I never let it get me down.
So when negativity surrounds, I know some day it'll all turn around, because...
All my life I've been waiting for, I've been praying for, for the people to say
That we don't wanna fight no more; there'll be no more wars and our children will play.
One day, one day, one day...
One day this all will change; treat people the same, stop with the violence, down with the hate.
One day we'll all be free and proud to be under the same sun,
Singing songs of freedom like...
All my life I've been waiting for, I've been praying for, for the people to say
That we don't wanna fight no more; there'll be no more wars and our children will play.
One day, one day, one day...
12 January 2014
Pursuing Peace
I love reading TIME magazine. They cover news from all around the globe, illustrate figures with infographics (oh, how I love looking at them!), and provide a bit of humor, too (thanks, Joel Stein).
This week, TIME's article, "2014 User's Guide" has some exciting predictions for this year:
- The U.S. Capitol building will begin a two-year restoration process.
- Google Glass will reach national levels of distribution.
- El Nino (Spanish for... "the Nino") will warm the Pacific to record temperatures.
- Kohlrabi will replace kale as the trendy, hipster vegetable of the year.
- More states will legalize recreational marijuana (OR, CA, AZ, and RI, in particular).
- Private space exploration companies will continue to probe the cosmos.
- Girls born in 2014 will have names ending in "-lyn, as in Marilyn or Madilyn." Children born this year may, for the first time in history, have a shorter life expectancy than their parents... due to obesity.
- Skype will replace non-emergency doctor visits. Doctors can asses symptoms and diagnose illnesses through "telemedicine" - a technology that's actually been used for years to serve remote fishermen along the Gulf of Maine, by the nurses of the Maine Seacoast Mission.
It's a question I have been asking myself.
I've been pondering a statement that TIME quoted, from Pope Francis: "True peace is not... a lovely 'facade' which conceals conflicts and divisions. Peace calls for daily commitment."
Pope Francis echoes the words of Psalm 34:14: "Seek peace and pursue it." As I consider my goals for 2014, a life of peace seems a worthy endeavor. More than that, a daily commitment to prayer and seeking Christ's peace will be my goal for the year.
Scripture calls us to live peaceably with our neighbor. Again, peace isn't merely the absence of conflict, but a daily commitment to support and love one another.
Romans 12:17-18 - "Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all."God reconciles His people to Himself; and He also wants His people to be reconciled to one another. This can take place at the family level... and at a global level. A huge part of living a wise, peaceful life is praying for our neighbors and our leaders.
II Corinthians 13:11 - "Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you."
"I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way." (I Timothy 2:1-2) This year, I will pray for those in need of reconciliation, and will work toward restoration with those in my own life. Won't you join me?
Pray for peace in places like Sudan (where civil war rages) and Uganda (whose government has enacted violent land grabs from its agrarian citizens - see SolidarityUganda.com for more info). Pray for the U.S. government to end its reckless policing of countries around the globe. Pray for local communities to join in unity, strangers joining as friends supporting one another. Pray for the end of oppression and exploitation. Pray for missionaries and churches to reach out, love those around them, and bring the peace of Christ to many.
My prayer is that God will change me, giving me more compassion for His people and endurance in prayer. Not only is prayer necessary for peacemaking, but prayer can indeed lead to a deep, godly inner peace. Philippians 4 tells us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
I pray that God gives me the wisdom to work toward peace. As I enter a new season in a new place, it will be essential to lean upon the Lord and His wisdom as I seek peaceable relationships with new friends, co-workers, and neighbors. In the fall, I'll begin grad school - academically studying the Word of God. I pray that this new wisdom will bring me a softened heart and hands prepared to work toward reconciliation.
James 3:17-18 - "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace."May 2014 be filled with the pursuit of knowledge, compassion, and humility... with much prayer... to better love and serve those around us in peace.
[Be sure to check out other bloggers' aspirations for the coming year at I Don't Have a Clue, but I'm Finding Out!]
Carolina in My Mind
...also, in reality.
Husband (Hubby? Hubskin? Hub?) and I spent a week adventuring around Charlotte. Our intent was to learn more about our grad school and to find somewhere to live. We thought we'd spend long days perusing dozens of apartments...
...but we fell in love with the first one we saw.
Four things we experienced for the first time:
2. A January thunderstorm - I did NOT know this was possible.
3. Someone calling the Civil War "the war of Northern aggression." (What does that even mean?). Apparently, Southerners continue - to this day - to justify a war that took place 150 years ago by it being about states' freedom to choose... to enslave people. This makes NO sense to me.
4. Shrimp & grits. This was the best thing I have EVER eaten.
All in all, I am pumped to move to the South. There is such a deep culture of both music and food (when asked what some of my favorite PA foods were, I replied, "...cheeseteak? Hershey's? Scrapple?" Penna Dutch cooking has NOTHING on that of the South) and many, many lovely people. Getting into seminary to truly learn the Bible and how to study it is fueling my sense of adventure and anticipation for ministry. "For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." (Proverbs 2:6)
Feeling a sense of solidarity with Mr. Taylor...
Can't you feel the sunshine?
Can't you just feel the moonshine?
27 December 2013
One Big Lesson from 2013
2013: a whirlwind year for me. My husband and I moved twice. We worked in camp ministry from March to December. We decided to go back to school. It all went by quickly, but it felt like a ton of stuff happened!
When I look back on the lessons I learned this year, I think I have quite a few things I could discuss. I learned lots about how unqualified I am for working in ministry. I learned that college students can completely amaze you when they are living fully for the Lord. I learned how hard it is to be in charge of a summer camp program (read: it's a lot less fun than counseling). I learned how to make marshmallows. Through study of James, I learned how importantly God sees our generosity - and how much I suck at giving.
Moving twice within the year taught me quite a few things about minimizing personal possessions. Renting and loading and transporting all that can fit within a U-haul and a Subaru is not necessarily fun, but definitely a profitable task.
Part of the minimization process included A LOT of wardrobe decisions. This leads me to my biggest lesson of the year:
When I look back on the lessons I learned this year, I think I have quite a few things I could discuss. I learned lots about how unqualified I am for working in ministry. I learned that college students can completely amaze you when they are living fully for the Lord. I learned how hard it is to be in charge of a summer camp program (read: it's a lot less fun than counseling). I learned how to make marshmallows. Through study of James, I learned how importantly God sees our generosity - and how much I suck at giving.
Moving twice within the year taught me quite a few things about minimizing personal possessions. Renting and loading and transporting all that can fit within a U-haul and a Subaru is not necessarily fun, but definitely a profitable task.
Part of the minimization process included A LOT of wardrobe decisions. This leads me to my biggest lesson of the year:
How to Dress Like a Grown-Up
I had always been that girl who dressed in garish colors and gaudy patterns, because I considered my style "artsy." After getting married, my husband (with a real eye for design) informed me that a plaid skirt, a paisley blouse, and striped tights do not comprise a decent outfit. I raided my wardrobe, pulling out many blouses, skirts, dresses, cardigans, and pants. Barely any plain, solid-colored items existed there! It proved my poor shopping track-record: I selected clothing items individually, based on each piece's particular beauty (which, to me, meant purple and pink paisleys or red-and-green plaids).
One time, I bought a skirt that I thought was amazing, at my college town's mod consignment shop. It was a knee-length A-line... and it had POCKETS. Pockets!! The fabric itself was cotton, a buttery yellow with a delicate, art nouveau-esque blue-and-purple print. By itself, it may have been a pretty skirt, but it matched NOTHING. I thought, "So... this doesn't match any top I own. Or any top in the world. I'll save the fabric and make it into a throw pillow or something." (Consider the fact that I don't know how to sew). This year, I finally forced myself to part with it. I had owned it for nine years. I think I had worn it about five or six times, total.
(If you're rolling your eyes, thinking, "This girl is so shallow, the biggest thing she learned in a year was how to dress?" ...you're right. But with my history of hoarding, getting rid of so many clothes was a big deal to me. And dressing nicely - for the first time ever - was a great result).
It felt very freeing filling up a second massive bin of clothing to donate (to the local women's shelter). I had so many things - even warm, toasty, winter clothes - that I so rarely wore. The best way to put it is that it felt right to share all these earthly possessions with folks who actually needed them.
My true inspiration came from a great sermon (heard at Great Island Presbyterian Church) on James 5. The "moth-eaten" clothing and riches were decomposing not necessarily because their owners were wealthy, but because they didn't put their possessions to good use. A closet filled with unworn clothing should be emptied and given to the naked. A pantry full of more food than one could eat within a year could be given to the hungry. A family's extra car could be given to a person in need of transportation to a job.
So I guess the underlying lesson beneath my wardrobe changes is that... too much is too much. We've all heard (in magazines; on Pinterest) that if "you haven't worn it within the year, get rid of it." We all have our favorite jeans, favorite tee-shirts, favorite sweaters: the ones we wear at least once or twice a week. Decide for yourself! Pick those favorite things and key wardrobe items, and discard the extra. It'll help you see your closet more clearly. And sorting the surplus clothes to give to those in need is worth it!
How to Dress Like a Grown-Up: Simplify. Wear what looks good on you. And share your extra clothes with those who may need them.
One time, I bought a skirt that I thought was amazing, at my college town's mod consignment shop. It was a knee-length A-line... and it had POCKETS. Pockets!! The fabric itself was cotton, a buttery yellow with a delicate, art nouveau-esque blue-and-purple print. By itself, it may have been a pretty skirt, but it matched NOTHING. I thought, "So... this doesn't match any top I own. Or any top in the world. I'll save the fabric and make it into a throw pillow or something." (Consider the fact that I don't know how to sew). This year, I finally forced myself to part with it. I had owned it for nine years. I think I had worn it about five or six times, total.
That was one of many ridiculous articles of clothing I owned that didn't match anything. Therefore, since we had to move twice within this year... my wardrobe changed. I got rid of all my tie-dye. Yes, a part of me still longs for my beautifully crafted tee-shirts... but my husband prefers that his wife not look like she's still in junior high.
Solid colors were in. Basic colors were in. Simple articles of clothing were in.
Pink was OUT.
I did purchase a few new items this year: black cigarette pants, grey flats, a grey cardigan, a few v-neck women's tees (more flattering than jr high soccer tee-shirts, right?). I learned that grey is my new favorite color for basic items. A grey pair of shoes can match with black, brown, or blue pants! It's like magic!
I surveyed my favorite blouses and cardigans, and then made sure I could match them each with several skirts and pants. The rest... went away! The ridiculous patterns, the ugly colors (no shade of pink or coral will ever look good on me), the fun colors that didn't match anything else... all went into the donation bin. What I was left with was a simple, comfortable, well-fitting, and (dare I say) stylish wardrobe. I can put together decent-looking outfits with so much ease now.
It felt very freeing filling up a second massive bin of clothing to donate (to the local women's shelter). I had so many things - even warm, toasty, winter clothes - that I so rarely wore. The best way to put it is that it felt right to share all these earthly possessions with folks who actually needed them.
My true inspiration came from a great sermon (heard at Great Island Presbyterian Church) on James 5. The "moth-eaten" clothing and riches were decomposing not necessarily because their owners were wealthy, but because they didn't put their possessions to good use. A closet filled with unworn clothing should be emptied and given to the naked. A pantry full of more food than one could eat within a year could be given to the hungry. A family's extra car could be given to a person in need of transportation to a job.
So I guess the underlying lesson beneath my wardrobe changes is that... too much is too much. We've all heard (in magazines; on Pinterest) that if "you haven't worn it within the year, get rid of it." We all have our favorite jeans, favorite tee-shirts, favorite sweaters: the ones we wear at least once or twice a week. Decide for yourself! Pick those favorite things and key wardrobe items, and discard the extra. It'll help you see your closet more clearly. And sorting the surplus clothes to give to those in need is worth it!
How to Dress Like a Grown-Up: Simplify. Wear what looks good on you. And share your extra clothes with those who may need them.
25 December 2013
The 6 Myths of Christmas
This season, I assisted my mother-in-law to liberally decorate their home with all things Christmas. I think she owns about four-hundred different incarnations of Santa Claus. I'm not even exaggerating. Trimming the tree (and the rest of the house) has led me to a few observations about some inaccurate facets of Americanized Christmas.
6. Joseph: husband of Mary, professional shepherd.
These two nativity scenes (among many others) portray Joseph holding a shepherd's crook. While shepherds were present that night in Bethlehem, Joseph himself was a carpenter by trade.
5. Someone received twelve drummers, eleven pipers, etc. for Christmas, and loved it all so much that she wrote a song about it.
Actually, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is about spiritual gifts, not material presents. What would you do with those ten lords leaping around your house, anyway? Read the full story here.
4. Angels look like either naked babies or winged ladies in dresses.
I grew up in a home where we placed an angel on top of our Christmas tree. It was the most beautiful, delicate doll... that I wasn't allowed to play with (too fragile). She had long, blonde hair; perfect, porcelain skin; and a shiny, white, satin dress. I'd cluster the other angel ornaments near the top of the tree - cute, glittery angels.
However, the angels described in scripture seem more like fiery, dangerous warriors. In many instances of an angel appearing to people, the angel has to calm them down, saying, "Don't be afraid!" Apparently, angels are pretty terrifying! Matthew describes the one guarding Jesus' empty tomb as having an "appearance like lightening." The cherubim in Genesis 3 guard the entrance to Eden with a flaming sword. The seraphim in Isaiah 6 have six wings each, and fly around shouting about how holy God is. Wow. These heavenly creatures sound a lot more exciting than naked-baby cherubs with chubby, pink cheeks!
3. The Magi showed up the day Jesus was born.
Matthew 2:1 - "Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem." Verse 11 actually says they went into the house to worship Him - so the Magi never actually hung out in the barn with the holy family) After this, Herod ordered all male children age two and under to be killed. (Joseph led his family to Egypt to hide out for a while).
2. Three Wise Men came to visit baby Jesus.
The Biblical account's inclusion of the Magi's three gifts for the Christ-child has led us to believe that there were three wise men. Additionally, the well-known carol "We Three Kings" re-enforces this view by its language: each man brings one gift. "Born a King on Bethlehem's plain; gold I bring to crown Him again," "Frankincense to offer have I," "Myrrh is mine..."
However, the Biblical story of Christmas and Epiphany doesn't actually give a number of wise men, only the number of gifts. It could actually have been two men carrying three gifts, or four men, or twenty.
1. Santa Claus.
6. Joseph: husband of Mary, professional shepherd.
5. Someone received twelve drummers, eleven pipers, etc. for Christmas, and loved it all so much that she wrote a song about it.
Actually, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is about spiritual gifts, not material presents. What would you do with those ten lords leaping around your house, anyway? Read the full story here.
4. Angels look like either naked babies or winged ladies in dresses.
I grew up in a home where we placed an angel on top of our Christmas tree. It was the most beautiful, delicate doll... that I wasn't allowed to play with (too fragile). She had long, blonde hair; perfect, porcelain skin; and a shiny, white, satin dress. I'd cluster the other angel ornaments near the top of the tree - cute, glittery angels.
However, the angels described in scripture seem more like fiery, dangerous warriors. In many instances of an angel appearing to people, the angel has to calm them down, saying, "Don't be afraid!" Apparently, angels are pretty terrifying! Matthew describes the one guarding Jesus' empty tomb as having an "appearance like lightening." The cherubim in Genesis 3 guard the entrance to Eden with a flaming sword. The seraphim in Isaiah 6 have six wings each, and fly around shouting about how holy God is. Wow. These heavenly creatures sound a lot more exciting than naked-baby cherubs with chubby, pink cheeks!
3. The Magi showed up the day Jesus was born.
Matthew 2:1 - "Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem." Verse 11 actually says they went into the house to worship Him - so the Magi never actually hung out in the barn with the holy family) After this, Herod ordered all male children age two and under to be killed. (Joseph led his family to Egypt to hide out for a while).
2. Three Wise Men came to visit baby Jesus.
The Biblical account's inclusion of the Magi's three gifts for the Christ-child has led us to believe that there were three wise men. Additionally, the well-known carol "We Three Kings" re-enforces this view by its language: each man brings one gift. "Born a King on Bethlehem's plain; gold I bring to crown Him again," "Frankincense to offer have I," "Myrrh is mine..."
However, the Biblical story of Christmas and Epiphany doesn't actually give a number of wise men, only the number of gifts. It could actually have been two men carrying three gifts, or four men, or twenty.
1. Santa Claus.
There's been a myth going around, saying that parents are the ones leaving presents under Christmas trees on December 24th. Isn't that ridiculous? I personally think it's just absurd to assume parents would be interested in building dozens of toys, wrapping them all perfectly, and stacking them in the living room in the middle of the night. Don't you agree? I can't imagine leaving that great a job of gift-giving to anyone but Santa himself. You can watch this documentary for more information.
If you have any additional observations about the holidays, I'd love to hear them - please comment! I hope your Christmas is joyful, and I leave you to enjoy this video (Michael Caine's finest performance):
20 December 2013
Recipe: Homemade Marshmallows
Here's a fabulous recipe for soft, fluffy, homemade marshmallows. Yes, it does have corn syrup and gelatin in it, but there aren't any preservatives AND it tastes infinitely better than store-bought 'mallows.
Plus, you can make them any flavor you want! They're scrumptious as "plain" vanilla, but you can flavor them with peppermint, coconut, chocolate, cinnamon... anything you can think of!
Here we go:
Combine 3 packages unflavored gelatin with 1/2 cup cold water in a mixer bowl.
In a saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1 cup light corn syrup, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 cup water. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves, then raise heat until the syrup reaches 240* F.
Turn the mixer on its lowest speed and slowly add the syrup to the gelatin. Add 1 tbsp vanilla extract (or 1 tsp vanilla & 2 tsp peppermint extract... or whatever flavor you like!). Set mixer speed to high and let it whip for 15 minutes.
Next, dust a glass 8" x 12" pan with confectioners' sugar, pour in the fluffy goodness, and let set overnight. Turn out and slice into cubes. At this point, you could also melt some chocolate chips in a double-boiler, dip the 'mallows in, and let cool - for chocolate-covered marshmallows. Yum!
Share and enjoy!
Plus, you can make them any flavor you want! They're scrumptious as "plain" vanilla, but you can flavor them with peppermint, coconut, chocolate, cinnamon... anything you can think of!
Here we go:
Combine 3 packages unflavored gelatin with 1/2 cup cold water in a mixer bowl.
In a saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1 cup light corn syrup, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 cup water. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves, then raise heat until the syrup reaches 240* F.
Turn the mixer on its lowest speed and slowly add the syrup to the gelatin. Add 1 tbsp vanilla extract (or 1 tsp vanilla & 2 tsp peppermint extract... or whatever flavor you like!). Set mixer speed to high and let it whip for 15 minutes.
Next, dust a glass 8" x 12" pan with confectioners' sugar, pour in the fluffy goodness, and let set overnight. Turn out and slice into cubes. At this point, you could also melt some chocolate chips in a double-boiler, dip the 'mallows in, and let cool - for chocolate-covered marshmallows. Yum!
Share and enjoy!
Twelve Days of Christmas: Part II
Today is December 20th. We have decorated our Christmas tree! It is hard to believe that Christmas is only five days away. Have you been counting down the twelve days of Christmas?
If so, you may have been led astray by television movie marathons and holiday commercialism!
The Twelve Days of Christmas are actually those days following December 25th. Traditionally, Christmas was celebrated for twelve whole days, leading up to Epiphany (the day the church commemorates the Wise Men's arrival to visit the Christ-child) on January 6th.
Sadly, Christmas - in America - has turned into an entire month of shopping, busyness, decorating, baking, and anticipation... all for just one day! As soon as Boxing Day rolls around, the Christmas music is cut off the radio stations, decor is boxed up once more, and we head into the boring part of the winter season.
It makes me sad! Why don't we have twelve days of celebration? Why not give people a break from work or school for twelve days of family time and relaxation? Certainly, the birth of God Himself in humblest human form is worth more than one day of celebration per year.
Well, I know the real reason we don't celebrate Christmas for twelve days. It's because no one would make any extra money off of it. All the corporations just want everyone to stress out and buy as much as they can in the month leading up to one day of blowout gift-giving and feasting.
I'd rather we feast for twelve days straight. I'd love it! Turkeys, hams, prime rib, duck, goose...
...and the cookies!! THE COOKIES!!!
Anyways... I challenge myself (and you, dear reader) to consider Christmas a twelve day-long festival, rather than a twenty-four hour holiday. Contemplate and worship our wonderful Savior, who "though He was in the form of God, did not consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men." (Philippians 2:6-7). Compare Philippians 2 and Psalm 8, and be blown away by the awesome power AND complete humility of God. The all-powerful Creator of the entire universe... was born a helpless baby in a barn... to show that He cares for us.
On the other hand... if you prefer the less Jesus-y, more Santa Claus-y side of Christmas... let's live out twelve beautiful days of gratitude, expressing thankfulness and love to our family and friends; as well as giving generously to those around us. Merry Christmas, friends!
If so, you may have been led astray by television movie marathons and holiday commercialism!
The Twelve Days of Christmas are actually those days following December 25th. Traditionally, Christmas was celebrated for twelve whole days, leading up to Epiphany (the day the church commemorates the Wise Men's arrival to visit the Christ-child) on January 6th.
Sadly, Christmas - in America - has turned into an entire month of shopping, busyness, decorating, baking, and anticipation... all for just one day! As soon as Boxing Day rolls around, the Christmas music is cut off the radio stations, decor is boxed up once more, and we head into the boring part of the winter season.
It makes me sad! Why don't we have twelve days of celebration? Why not give people a break from work or school for twelve days of family time and relaxation? Certainly, the birth of God Himself in humblest human form is worth more than one day of celebration per year.
Well, I know the real reason we don't celebrate Christmas for twelve days. It's because no one would make any extra money off of it. All the corporations just want everyone to stress out and buy as much as they can in the month leading up to one day of blowout gift-giving and feasting.
I'd rather we feast for twelve days straight. I'd love it! Turkeys, hams, prime rib, duck, goose...
...and the cookies!! THE COOKIES!!!
Anyways... I challenge myself (and you, dear reader) to consider Christmas a twelve day-long festival, rather than a twenty-four hour holiday. Contemplate and worship our wonderful Savior, who "though He was in the form of God, did not consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men." (Philippians 2:6-7). Compare Philippians 2 and Psalm 8, and be blown away by the awesome power AND complete humility of God. The all-powerful Creator of the entire universe... was born a helpless baby in a barn... to show that He cares for us.
On the other hand... if you prefer the less Jesus-y, more Santa Claus-y side of Christmas... let's live out twelve beautiful days of gratitude, expressing thankfulness and love to our family and friends; as well as giving generously to those around us. Merry Christmas, friends!
18 December 2013
Now Presenting....
Welcome to "Pearls of Wisdom!"
After - like - seven years.... I have changed the name of this blog.
"Deterioration of the fight or flight response" sounded cool (it's the name of an episode of Grey's Anatomy, which I watched religiously in my post-college years), but it was kind of long. It also wasn't very concise. I think I had written one or two posts in particular on the ideal of striving to act kindly, rationally, and considerately, rather than brashly and instinctually.
I think that topic fits into the broader scope of wisdom in general. As I tend to write equal amounts of anecdotes, life lessons, and stuff learnt whilst reading... I decided to "officially" change the title and refine the purpose of my blog.
Therefore... Welcome, readers! I'm looking forward to discussing and sharing tidbits of knowledge, and having some fun along the way.
Cheers!
After - like - seven years.... I have changed the name of this blog.
"Deterioration of the fight or flight response" sounded cool (it's the name of an episode of Grey's Anatomy, which I watched religiously in my post-college years), but it was kind of long. It also wasn't very concise. I think I had written one or two posts in particular on the ideal of striving to act kindly, rationally, and considerately, rather than brashly and instinctually.
I think that topic fits into the broader scope of wisdom in general. As I tend to write equal amounts of anecdotes, life lessons, and stuff learnt whilst reading... I decided to "officially" change the title and refine the purpose of my blog.
Therefore... Welcome, readers! I'm looking forward to discussing and sharing tidbits of knowledge, and having some fun along the way.
Cheers!
17 December 2013
Twelve Days of Christmas: Part I
What in the WORLD am I going to do with these ten lords who are leaping all over the house?? Why, oh why did my husband hire these guys to jump around? And they expect to be fed, too! I am going to have to buy a whole 'nother ham and a goose just for Christmas dinner!
Praise the Lord... I am just kidding.
But who in their right mind wrote a song about getting all sorts of crazy gifts during each day of the Christmas Feast? Okay, animals can make nice gifts, if you're prepared to care for them. I wouldn't mind receiving all that poultry. But... people? People! Why would you give dancing ladies as a gift?
Plus, don't all these things combined sound a little expensive?
What does the "Twelve Days of Christmas" song really mean?
As it turns out, that famous song, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is about spiritual gifts, not material presents. What would you do with twelve drummers, anyway? Start a marching band with them and the eleven pipers?
The story goes like this: during the sixteenth century, Roman Catholics were facing persecution in England, so they came up with a cheerful holiday tune to secretly teach their children about the tenants of the faith. Think about this the next time you sing it:
"On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love" (God) "gave to me"
"Twelve drummers drumming," (the Apostles Creed's points of doctrine)
"Eleven pipers piping," (the eleven faithful disciples of Jesus)
"Ten lords a'leaping," (Ten Commandments)
"Nine ladies dancing," (nine fruits of the Spirit)
"Eight maids a'milking," (the eight Beatitudes Jesus taught)
Praise the Lord... I am just kidding.
But who in their right mind wrote a song about getting all sorts of crazy gifts during each day of the Christmas Feast? Okay, animals can make nice gifts, if you're prepared to care for them. I wouldn't mind receiving all that poultry. But... people? People! Why would you give dancing ladies as a gift?
Plus, don't all these things combined sound a little expensive?
What does the "Twelve Days of Christmas" song really mean?
As it turns out, that famous song, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is about spiritual gifts, not material presents. What would you do with twelve drummers, anyway? Start a marching band with them and the eleven pipers?
The story goes like this: during the sixteenth century, Roman Catholics were facing persecution in England, so they came up with a cheerful holiday tune to secretly teach their children about the tenants of the faith. Think about this the next time you sing it:
"On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love" (God) "gave to me"
"Twelve drummers drumming," (the Apostles Creed's points of doctrine)
"Eleven pipers piping," (the eleven faithful disciples of Jesus)
"Ten lords a'leaping," (Ten Commandments)
"Nine ladies dancing," (nine fruits of the Spirit)
"Eight maids a'milking," (the eight Beatitudes Jesus taught)
"Seven swans a'swimming," (the seven gifts of the Spirit)
"Six geese a'laying," (the six days of Creation)
"Five gold rings," (the Torah/Pentateuch)
"Four calling birds," (the four Gospels)
"Three French hens," (the three Persons of the Trinity)
"Two turtle doves," (Old and New Testaments)
"and a partridge" (Jesus) "in a pear tree." (the cross)
Read the full story here.
Next time, in "Twelve Days of Christmas: Part II," we'll discover why there are twelve days of Christmas in the first place... and why we don't celebrate them all anymore.
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