The Discovery Channel documentary slams Christianity

According to the Discovery Channel's documentary "The Lost Tomb of Jesus" airing Sunday, March 4, the bones of Jesus-- buried with His family -- have been found. In addition, the documentary says that Mary Magdalene and Jesus might have had a son named Judah.

Here is what The Discovery Channel says about the program and the Christian faith: "All leading epigraphers agree about the inscriptions. All archaeologists confirm the nature of the find. It comes down to a matter of statistics. A statistical study commissioned by the broadcasters (Discovery Channel/Vision Canada/C4 UK) concludes that the probability factor is 600 to 1 in favor of this tomb being the tomb of Jesus of Nazareth and his family."

Having watched how Hollywood portrays Christians and Christian values for the past 30 years, it is clear that Hollywood considers Christianity its greatest enemy. Because of our silence, Christianity is the only religion they feel free to attack!
Read 'Lost Tomb of Jesus' tries to turn 'fiction into believability,' minister warns.

It is time for Christians to send a message to The Discovery Channel and Hollywood that enough is enough! Don't stay silent while The Discovery Channel and Hollywood continually attack our faith and our values.

The documentary was produced by James Cameron, whose claim to fame is directing the movie "The Titanic." Saying that Cameron is qualified to make a documentary on Jesus is like saying Hugh Hefner is qualified to make a documentary on abstinence before marriage!

Forward this to your friends and family. Urge them to get involved and send a message to The Discovery Channel and Hollywood.

Women's group meets tonight @ 6:30!

Women's group tonight at 6:30 pm at the Harlan's house. I'm bringing fruits and veggies w/dips for a snack. I hope to see you all there. Well not all of you..just the girls. : ) We are starting a new AWESOME study by Andy Stanley. Here is a description of it.




Life Rules
Andy Stanley

Everything You Need to Know in Life, You Can Learn Here!
When we were in kindergarten, half the fun of living was breaking the rules without getting caught. In real adult life, however, there is nothing fun about broken promises, relationships, or hearts. In this DVD and study guide from North Point Resources, Andy Stanley explains God's set of life rules that can improve current relationships and mend broken ones. Every game requires parameters, and in this lifelong journey toward heaven, it's never too late to learn, relearn, and follow the rules God clearly outlines for His people...because they set you on the course for success!

I Hope to see you there! Have a great day today!! Susan

Freaky!

Stare at this picture intently for one minute..then close your eyes. What do you see? Sweeet!

Barack Obama "I inhaled frequently" "That was the point"

"the woman at the end makes a good point. So he told the truth. Over. Done. Next question! " That quote is a comment that was posted under this clip I found on youtube. It's not my opinion!! That's what many people in our society believe. Well, at least he's honest, that's what's important. Celebrities..as long as they apologize for their bad behavior, then go to rehab and get some help, they are okay. What crosses the line? What is not okay for a potential president to have done? Seriously...
Just shakin' my head...

The Underground

About three years ago, God called me to give more of my life, than I was giving to him. I was a Christian..I believed that Jesus died for my sins, and I asked that He would forgive me. I went to church on Sunday. I read my Bible...occassionally..well...rarely..and I prayed every night before I went to bed. But that wasn't good enough. God wanted ALL of me. Not just SUNDAY MORNING ME or NIGHT TIME me. He wanted me to live for him 24/7. I fought Him. I didn't want to give up watching Sex and the City and the Sopranos..I wanted sin in my life. I honestly did. But he fought back. He needed me. He was going to use me and I needed to be pure for Him. So, after a two week, crying on the floor, battling with God, He won.
Soon after, he began pouring vision into me. One of the first things God told me to do was read His word, the Bible. Not just to read it..but study it, starting with the Old Testament. So I did. It took me a little over a year. I studied the Bible and I'm telling you guys, if you've never read the Bible before, it is an AMAZING book about God and Us. I recommend reading the Living Bible and especially one that is LIFE APPLICATION. That means, that it takes Scripture, and explains it.
I was currently attending a small church here in New Castle. Through prayer (which is simply just conversations with GOD), I began to hear God's voice and feel the Holy Spirit prompting me to do some things. One was to join a team that plans the worship for Sunday services, because God was going to do a powerful thing in New Castle and with my church, but He needed some changes to be made. So he told me to join this team, which would help make the worship services more excellent and contemporary. So I joined that team. The second thing God told me to do, or rather showed me, was the way to get people to come to church. He gave me a picture in my head, of the Underground. The Underground was to be a place for young people to come and hang out. A coffee house type atmosphere with a game room and tv room. So I obeyed God. He showed me what to do and how to do it. Just like he gave a vision to Nehemiah, and helped him accomplish the task of rebuilding a wall. *Check it out..it's in the Bible in the book of Nehemiah.. GREAT STORY!!!*
So I began to gather a team of people, and shared with them God's vision, and they listened, and they believed in it! We raised money..and we had an incredible artist come in and paint the room for us...
Then, unfortunately some things happened at the church, and I felt God telling me to leave..BUT ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD TO THOSE WHO LOVE GOD... BECAUSE..

It began with God and God used me , but after I left, God called others to come along and finish it!!! THEY DID!!! WOOOOHOOOOOO A wonderful family, and I'm sure they had lots of help, got together and finished the Underground. Last Friday they had a Grand Opening and invited me to come! I was soooooo excited to go and see what God had done!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was not disappointed. It was incredible, fantastic, awesome...my word can't even describe how I felt. It was a dream that came true, and I think that's the first time that has ever happened to me. My dream.. God's dream. WOW! Kids' lives are going to be changed, people are going to find Christ, because of the Underground Refuge Center!!!!!!!!! Oh man, my heart is just bursting!! Job well done Ross family and FCOG peeps!! Job well done!! SO check out these pictures. And if you have any questions about God, and how he works, or any questions about the Underground feel free to ask in an email to me. netgirly@yahoo.com God, you are amazing. I can't say it too many times. Jesus, I love you so much, for all you've done in my life, and all you do! You rock!! Peace Out! Susan

Doesn't it seem strange that we have to create a bill to make English our official language?

Help make English our official language

A common language, not “diversity,” makes our country stronger




Recently, the mayor of Nashville vetoed a bill that would have made English the city’s official language. He called the measure “unconstitutional, unnecessary, and mean-spirited.” U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid even called a bill to make English our official language “racist.”

A Zogby poll last year showed that 84% say English should be the official language of government operations. The poll also showed that 77% of Hispanics support English as our official language.

It is time for liberal members of Congress to quit playing politics with the future of all children --U.S. and Immigrant--and follow the lead of 28 states which have made English their official language. Failure for Congress to act will establish a major obstacle for immigrant children as they try to move up in our society.

Without a common language, citizens cannot communicate with each other. Any child growing up in America without knowing English is at a distinct disadvantage. At a time when our society is becoming more fragmented, we need an official, common language. Diverse cultures, different backgrounds and varied traditions enrich our culture. But for the nation to thrive, we must have a common language.

As Ed Feulner points out, “instead of having one official language, in practice we have dozens.” Click here to read Mr. Feulner’s article.

Take Action! Let your opinion be known! What do you think about this?

This is one of the reasons why.. If you haven't seen the movie Dreamgirls..GO SEE IT!

She so deserved this...

Women's group meets this Wednesday!

Hey gang!
Don't forget our new small group starts this Wednesday, 6:30 pm at Brenda's house! It's going to be AWESOME!! I can't wait to see you all. I've missed you so much since Steamers. Please try to come. We need to get back that strong bond that we all shared together. I love you guys! Call if you need directions or have any questions. 724-652-0913 Sue

This is so cool!

This takes about 9 minutes to watch, but it is so worth it. Even if you don't get sound, it's still profound.
Enjoy!

We're floored!

Winter is such a blah time... (Although I have to tell you, I am still feeling that Jesus "High", man oh man, I am filled with such Joy right now..I flew out of bed..so excited, on fire, happy..JOYFILLED. I have such amazing ENERGY!! I will share with you tommorow, what God is doing in my life right now..
Back to what I was saying..winter time is a great time to do some home improvement projects. Joe & I decided to put down a new pergo floor in our kitchen and dining room. Here's a before and after shot.



What do you think? It was an easy project to do! You basically just lay the boards down. They fit together with the tongue and groove system! Thanks to AL for helping us with this!

Would you vote for a president who smokes?

In addition to the fact that his middle name is Hussein, his last name kinda rhymes with Osama, and he used to sniff a little blow back in the day, it turns out that Barack Obama is also a cigarette smoker.

Really? When's the last time we had a President who smoked squares? Bill Clinton liked to use his as foreplay before smoking them, but at least those were cigars. The idea of the President of the United States of America puffing on a Newport just doesn't seem right.

Just shaking my head...

I can't hold back..

Okay.. I can't hold back. I've got to share this with you or I feel as though I will explode. I LOVE GOD SO MUCH!!!!!!! I CAN'T BEAR TO KEEP IT IN!! GOD IS AMAZING!! You guys..if anyone is reading this and has never accepted Jesus as their Savior, I believe that He is calling you right now!! I'm telling you..I'm PROMISING YOU.. LIFE IS SO MUCH BETTER WITH CHRIST AS YOUR LIFE GUIDE!! Having Jesus as your Savior, does not mean life will be without disappointments and heartaches and problems..but It will be a whole lot easier to deal with those things! Do you know why? Because you don't have to bear any of those burdens alone!
28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (New Living Translation) People, I promise you!! INVITE Jesus into your heart..just close your eyes and ask Him to be your Savior, tell him that you've sinned and you want to be forgiven for your sins, ask Him to change your life, and to help you! Go ahead!! Do it now!! I don't know who is reading this, but God does and He's speaking to you right now. He wants you to give those burdens to him...lay them down..take them from your shoulders and let Jesus carry them for you.
Whoever you are... I'm praying for you right now. I'm praying that you are strong enough, or weak enough, to give your life over to Christ.
Jesus loves you. He really does. You don't have to carry those burdens anymore.. He wants you to know that.

Some great thoughts!

I enjoy reading blogs from pastors and other Christian leaders. One of my favorites is Tony Morgan. www.tonymorganlive.com He is such a creative and innovative leader, a great family guy, and Christ follower! Yesterday he posted some quotes from Bishop TD Jakes who is a Pastor of the Potter's house. (I love that name!) www.thepottershouse.org
TD JAKES was one of the speakers at a Christian Leaders Conference called The creative pastors conference. (Someday, If God allows, I will be there!!) THese are some quotes from TD.
He opened by saying leaders are the "gateway to the next move of God."
Exodus 4:1-12 > He focused in on the "can't do this" part.
"We get too much direction from men and not enough from God."
If you think you're a great preacher, you are not. If you think you're a great leader, you are not.
"You're attitude determines your altitude."
Every preacher is not a leader. Effective leadership moves a group of people from one location to another location. "We serve a moving God. He's not a statue."
God is moving you. The people are moving with you. We're not always teaching, but we are always learning.
God is our source. We need alone moments with God. We need to discover our own DNA. Through alone time with God, we are uniquely crafted. There will never be another you.
When you find your original self, you'll find your calling and purpose. God is our source.
God draws out of us who we really are. Only God knows what he had in mind when he called us. He has fully equipped us with everything we need to accomplish everything we need to do.
God puts people in your life to draw out of you want he needs from you.
"You cannot be a leader without trouble. It's not your job to be popular. Your not a politician--you're God's man."
What are the uniquenesses of your ministry? We want to be like everyone else. We need to add to what they do not duplicate what they do. We all teach the Gospel. "What is the unique voice God put into you?"
What is your brand? Your ministry is the same, but your focus is different. "You need one vision and not division." What's your focus? Everyone needs to know it.
Deut. 34:9-12 > The vision should flow throughout your ministry without being diluted (weakened) or polluted (added to).
Just like the McDonald's franchise.... "If I'm going to do it in their name, I need to do it their way."
Watch out for people that come to "help you" with their agenda. They have to buy into the franchise.
Have you discovered what is at your disposal? God asked Moses, "What is that in your hand?"
If you don't stretch them, you will lose them. Don't hire anyone on your "staff" that is unwilling to be stretched.
Don't hire anyone that can only do one thing. You need people that can transform. "What else can you do?" There's more than one gift in you. There's an omnipotent God in you.
Jesus poured himself into 12--not into the 5,000. Find your 12.
More importantly, you need someone to lean on. "If you're in this room, you're here so your pastor can lean on you."
Why does God ask us to do what we feel incapable of doing? Why have you asked me to work in my area of greatest limitation? God wants us to lean on him. Humble yourself. When we admit, "I cannot do this without God," then God anoints you.
God is getting ready to do incredible things in your life. You should be excited. And you should be intimidated. Where do you stutter?

WOW!! I am inspired! So what do you think? Do any of these inspire you?

Wanna see a Dave Matthews Video?

Oh my..I've spent the last 6 hours downloading Dave Matthews and DMB videos on to my ipod! I REALLY LOVE MY IPOD! I fall asleep almost every night listening to music. I never could do that before, because Joe doesn't like falling asleep to music, but now that I have my ipod..I can!! It makes me have great dreams! So check out this video clip. Dave is singing a tribute to John Lennon called IN MY LIFE. Enjoy!

You are a Pennsylvanian if...

You refer to Pennsylvania as

"PA" (pronounced Pee-ay). How many other states do that?

"You guys" is a perfectly acceptable reference to a group of men & women

You know how to respond to the question "Djeetyet?" (Didyoueatyet?)

You learned to pronounce Bryn Mawr, Wilkes-Barre , Schuylkill , the Pocono's, Tamaqua, Tunkannock, Bala Cynwyd, Duquesne & Monongahela.

You know what a "Mummer" is, and are disappointed if you can't catch at least highlights of the parade.

You know what " Punxsutawney Phil" is, and what it means if he sees his shadow.

The first day of buck & the first day of doe season are school holidays.

You know how to get 'rid' of things and how to read up.

You can use the phrase "fire hall wedding reception" & not even bat an eye.

You can't go to a wedding without hearing the "Chicken Dance," at least one polka & either an Italian song (sung in Italian,) or "Hava Nagila."

At least 5 people on your block have electric "candles" in all or most their windows all year long.

You know what a "Hex sign" is.

You know what a "State Store" is, and your out-of-state friends find it incredulous that you can't purchase liquor at the mini-mart.

You own only 4 condiments: salt, pepper, mustard & ketchup.

Words like "hoagie," "crick," "chipped ham," "sticky buns," "shoo-fly pie," "pierogies" & "pocketbook" actually mean something to you. That's PA slang

You can eat cold pizza (even for breakfast) and know others who do the same. (Those from NY find this "barbaric.")

You not only have heard of Birch Beer, but you know it comes in several colors: Red, White, Brown, Gold.

You know several places to purchase or that serve Scrapple, Summer Sausage and Hot Bacon Dressing

You can eat a cold soft pretzel from a street vendor without fear & enjoy it. It almost always comes with mustard.

You know the difference between a cheese steak & a pizza steak sandwich, and know that you can't get a really good one outside PA. Except Atlantic City on the boardwalk.

You live for summer, when street & county fairs signal the beginning of funnel cake season.

Customers ask the waitress for "dippy eggs" for breakfast.

You know that Blue Ball, Intercourse, Paradise , Climax, Bird-in-Hand, Beaver, Moon, Virginville, Mars, and Slippery Rock are PA towns. (and the first 3 were consecutive stops on the Reading RR)

You know what a township, borough, and commonwealth is.

You can identify drivers from New York , New Jersey , or other neighboring states by their unique & irritating driving habits.

A traffic jam is 10 cars waiting to pass a horse-drawn carriage on the highway in Lancaster County.

You know several people who have hit deer more than once.

You carry jumper cables in your car & your female passengers know how to use them.

You still keep kitty litter, starting fluid, de-icer, or a snowbrush in your trunk, even if you live in the south.

Driving is always better in winter because the potholes are filled with snow.

As a kid you built snow forts and leaf piles that were taller than you were.

Your graduating class consisted of mostly Polish, German, & Italian names.

You know beer doesn't grow in a garden but you know where to find a beer garden.

Spreading the love..

God is amazing! I feel as though my heart is filled up with joy. It's overflowing..I want to share that joy with you! God has provided me with so much love that comes through the Holy Spirit and also comes through friends, and acquaintances. God is ALWAYS with you. ALWAYS! You may be far away from God sometimes, but that's YOU pushing HIM away. All you do is have to call His name, and I promise you He is right there with you.
This whole week has been wonderful, in so many different ways. I'll start with Monday..
As I wrote before, I had my nutritionist's appointment on Monday. My nutritionist's name is Linda. She's probably in her late 40's. I don't know a whole lot about her, but I know she's a Vegan, vegetarian. She weaves and makes her own soap. She likes collecting antiques. She's married with no children. She's a self proclaimed hermit. She's very, very nice.
On Monday, I was feeling a little bit emotional about not being able to stick to a diet. I started to cry a little bit and Linda said this to me,
"Susan, there is so much more to you, than your weight" She said, "I've never said this to anyone before, but I kind of envy you" You have such a beautiful personality. You're so friendly and happy..and well, you seem to just shine! I talk about you, to my husband. I think about you, and look forward to your next appointment. There is just something "different" about you!"
Well, I know what she means,because I do have something special about me, it's not me though, it's GOD inside of me, and it is HIS light that shines from me!That's what people see! So I told her about Jesus, and it just so happens that I had also brought a Christian book and read her a passage from it. She was very receptive!
Well guess what? Today, she called me, and she told me about a patient that came in after me who also happened to have a CHRISTIAN BOOK, and read her a passage from it!!!! GOD!!! YOU ARE AMAZING!! I Can't say it enough!! So she heard my testimony, and the other patient's testimony. Later that day, Linda told me on the phone, two different women that work at the hospital were having some life problems, and Linda was able to talk about me, and the passage of the book I read to her, (Which is the same passage I posted on here a few days ago). So she called, to tell me all of that. I feel God's call... to start witnessing again... Oh, I'm getting so hungry to share God's love!! I know it's what He's called me for!
Yesterday, Brenda and I met for coffee. Brenda is the kind of friend that keeps you on the straight and narrow. She holds you accountable and doesn't let you make excuses. She's the kind of friend I can count on to tell me the truth, even if it hurts. She has such passion and also shares a very similar call from God, that I have. We both know that God is using us in a very powerful way! She loves the Lord so much! Brenda is an incredible wife and mother as well as follower of Christ. She doesn't have any clue how wonderful she is, and how PROUD Jesus is of her. She is a woman after God's own heart, and I mean that sincerely.
So Brenda and I had coffee together yesterday, and we decided that we were going to do two things together. We're going to continue holding small groups. We are also going to join some kind of organization or community group together. We make a great team for Jesus! We want to continue doing what God has called us to do..we both feel that hunger..ache..that burden! *So if you're interested in joining a GREAT bunch of women who love laughing and loving and learning together, we are going to meet on Wednesday nights at 6:30 at the Harlans. Call me if you need directions. Everyone is welcome!!
Today, I took Ally to the dentist for a teeth cleaning. Ally asked me to come and sit with her, so I did. The hygienist,whom I've never talked to before, and I began a conversation. Her name is Tammy and I think she is about my age. She has a 20 year old daughter and a 1 year old daughter. Yup...ONE YEAR OLD! She was just diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas and there's a large tumor on her liver. They don't even know yet how they will treat it. She has no health insurance. I asked her if she had any supportive people in her life. Her parents are both dead, but she has her daughter and her husband who lives in Ohio. *They don't live together, because she doesn't want to move, and he doesn't either* (No judgements from me)..
But she started to tear up as she was telling me this, so I started witnessing to her. She said two other people that come in the dentist's office have told her the same thing (God is in control and God will take care of her) She said that her husband is not saved and maybe this will be a witness to him.
I am going to send her a card tomorrow and just tell her that I'm praying for her. Please pray for Tammy right now..as you read this. If you put it off, you might forget. Thanks.
So God is moving me once again. SPREADING THE LOVE,
Susan

The girls!

Well, it was the girls turn to shine on American Idol last night. They did not disappoint! The girls were sooo much better than the guys, in my opinion. Wow! I was impressed. What did you think? Did anyone stand out? Who made your top five? I will reveal my top five tommrow!
The final performance by Lakisha (I'm not sure I spelled that right) was AMAZING! First off, Dreamgirls was the best movie I've seen this year! I LOVED IT! I love musicals, and I love R & B music! Jennifer Hudson was incredible as Effie White! I was mesmorized by her performance. When she sang that song in the movie, "And I'm telling you that I'm not going" I wanted to stand up and applaud! I have never felt that way of anyone's performance in a movie theater. I will be shocked if she doesn't win the Oscar, for her performance!
So, i LOVED that song ever since seing the movie! I downloaded the soundtrack onto my ipod and have been listening to it alot! When Lakisha started singing it, I melted. I had tears in my eyes.. She had my vote! She's now #1 in my top five! She's got a humble personality and a great story! GOOOOO LAKISHA!!!!!!!!!!
I also liked a few other performances!

American Idol guys

Did you watch last night? Who did you like? Were you disappointed in anyone? Joe made it home just in time to grab his pen and notebook! We have a contest going at work to see who can rack up the most American Idol points. From this competition, out of the first 24 contestants, we must pick our top five. The first person to get eliminated gets 1 point, second person eliminated-2 points etc... So the longer your top five last, the more points you will get!
I was really disapointed in the guys last night. Even my favorite Chris Sligh! He had a cocky attitude..which wiped out some of my *love* points for him. You know who I thought did the best? Blake Lewis..the beatbox guy!! I loved the song he sang. So I'm pretty sure Chris and Blake will be in my top two! Hopefully the girls will rock out tonight..because there were no other guys that stood out enough to put in the top five!
I found this video on You Tube the other day. Chris Sligh and his band pre Idol! Check it out and enjoy! Peace, Susan

ExPoSeD

Yesterday, I posted an article about women who try to fill their empty hearts with things such as shopping,gambling,food, and alcohol. Today, I wanted to share with you some personal info about my addiction and what I intend to do about it.
My addiction of course if food. You can hide a gambling addiction..you can hide compulsive behaviors, overspending etc... but everyone who looks at me knows I have a problem with overeating.
I've been overweight most of my life. I started putting on weight when I was about 10 years old. My parents opened up a pizza shop and an ice cream store, around this same time, so I had lots of pizza and ice cream to eat. But I don't blame that for causing me to gain weight. My brother and sisters remained thin.
My mom and dad were both overweight. So were my dad's mother and my mom's father. (Each of their spouses were thin).. I definitely have inherited the genes of my overweight family members..I do believe this is partly the reason for my being overweight, but not all of it.
I have an addictive personality. I used to be addicted to alcohol. I over-drank, the same way I over-eat. I used to be addicted to cigarettes. I over-smoked too. And I've always been addicted to food. I can't have just one cookie. I compulsively eat. I binge. I eat large quantities until I feel sick. And even then..I want more. Do you want to know how I became obese..or THIS fat?? I'm really fat now..fatter than I've ever been! I got this way by dieting. Seriously. I've dieted since I was 13 or 14 years old. Lose 10, gain 15. Lose 20.. gain 25.. Lose 50, gain 75. I've lost hundreds of pounds..and gained more. I stay on a diet for a while..but as soon as I go off. I gain..and gain..and gain. So for the past five years I haven't dieted. And I've stayed about the same size.
When I first wake up in the morning..I think about what I can eat that day.
I'm always hungry. Is it real hunger that I feel? I don't know..But I can't control it.. But Ooooooh, do I want to control it. Those of you who are fat, or who struggle with weight..you know what I mean..
Being Fat is the last thing any woman wants to be. "He said I'm fat" my daughter cried one day.. "What's wrong with being fat?" I answered. "I'm not fat..am I? Please tell me I'm not fat" *sting*
So most of you know this, but some of you don't..
I'm going to have Gastric Bypass surgery this summer. I have to complete 6 months of Nutritional counseling, and take a series of psychological and physical tests before my insurance will pay for the surgery.
So I've been going to nutritional counseling for the past four months. My counselor has counseled many Bariatric patients. She's wonderful.
Yesterday was my fourth visit. She's teaching me how to eat properly and to add exercise to my life before and after the surgery.
I can hardly wait for my surgery.
I will post pictures here weekly, and journal my experiences. Will I be a new person? Will I be the same person on the inside? How will this change my life? Who will I become? Have I been filling my empty heart with food? What will I fill it with when I can't have food? There's so much to ponder...
Have a beautiful day. Jesus loves you! SLH

A mystery has been unveiled.

I'm currently reading a book called "Captivating :Unveiling the mysteries of a woman's soul" by John and Stasi Eldredge. A few years ago I read "Wild at Heart" by John Eldridge. This is a similar book, but written for women.
I want to copy a section of the book that I read last night. It took my breath away and caused me to have a new understanding of myself. I took the book with me to my nutritionist's appointment and I read to her, the same excerpt. It touched her deeply. Take your time and read this slowly, and let me know if it touches you and if you can relate to this..

It is from Chapter 3, page 57 and the subtitle is called "Indulging"
"Whether we tend to dominate and control, or withdraw in our desolation and hide, still... the ache remains. The deep longings in our hearts as women, just won't go away. And so we indulge. We buy ourselves something nice when we aren't feeling appreciated. We "allow" ourselves a second helping of ice cream or a supersized something when we are lonely. We move into a fantasy world to find some water for our thirsty hearts. Romance novels, soap operas, talk shows, gossip, the myriads of women's magazines all feed an inner life of relational dreaming and voyeurism that substitutes, for a while, for the real thing. But none of these really satisfy, and so we find ourselves trying to fill the remaining emptiness with our little indulgences (we might call them bad habits). They are what we give our hearts away to instead of giving them to the heart of God.
We daydream our way through traffic. We imagine meaningful conversations or difficult ones where we speak brilliantly. We spend our imaginations on cheap novels, picturing ourselves as the beautiful heroine, winsome, pursued, beautiful. We are endlessly creative in our indulgent pursuits, our adulteries of the heart. WE certainly, do not limit ourselves to just one.
Take a moment and consider yours. Where do you go instead of to God when the ache of your heart begins to make itself known?
Spending too much money, gambling, bingeing, purging, shopping, drinking, working, cleaning, exercising, too many movies, sitcoms, talk shows, even our negative emotions can become indulgences. When we camp our hearts in self-doubt, condemning thoughts, or even shame because those emotions have become familiar and comfortable, we are faithlessly indulging rather than allowing our deep ache to draw us to God.
Unfortunately our indulgences make us feel better for a short while. They seem to "work" but really only increase our need to indulge again. THIS IS THE NIGHTMARE OF ADDICTION! But it goes far beyond "drugs". We give our hearts to all sorts of "lovers" that demand our attention, demand we indulge again. We taste something that we think is good, our longings cease to ache, for a minute, but later we find ourselves empty once more, needing to be filled up again and again.
The ways we find to numb our longings, and our pain are not benign. They are malignant. They entangle themselves in our souls like a cancer and once attached become addictions that are both cruel and relentless. Though we seek them out for a little relief from the sorrows of life, addictions turn on us and imprison us in chains that separate us from the Heart of God and others as well. It is a lonely prison of our own making.
We need not be ashamed that our hearts ache, that we need and search and hunger for much more. ALL OF OUR HEARTS ACHE! All of our hearts are at some level unsatisfied and longing. It is our insatiable need for more that drives us to God.
What we need to see is that all of our controlling and hiding and indulging actually serves to separate us from our hearts. We lose touch with those longings that make us women. And the substitutes NEVER EVER resolve the deeper issues of our souls"
*breath*
It is very rare to find a woman that is not insecure. Why are almost ALL women insecure. Do you know any women that really love themselves? They love their body, and their hair and their personality etc...??? THINK ABOUT IT!!! Why are we so down on ourselves? Why do we not think we are ever good enough? We're not skinny enough or smart enough? A lot to think about. My next post, I am going to expose myself and tell you about my addiction! (unfortunately mine is not one I can hide)
I hope you're having a great day! Susan

Sunday..

Today was a really good Sunday. We all met my mom for lunch at her restaurant, The Shortstop Inn, and afterwards went to her house and snuggled up on her couches and watched movies until 9:30 pm. My mom is the kind of mom, that makes you feel "at home" when you are at her house. Do you know what I mean? It's so comfortable and..well it's HOME! My Mom made us tea and cocoa and biscuits with butter and jam. COMFORT FOOD!! It felt really good! Thank you mom for making your home ALWAYS feel like it's our home too. I love you and am so thankful for you!
I hope you all had a good Sunday too! Sue

Do you watch American Idol?

These guys are the bomb! I'm already cheering for Chris Sligh,the big curly haired guy (Large dark curly haired people rock!) :) I love his dry sense of humor.
Okay peeps, now I know many of you are reading this blog, because I've gotten lots of hits, but not too many comments. I want to create a community of friends all talking and sharing together, so let your voice be heard!! Do you watch American Idol? Do you love the show or hate the show? Do you have any early favorites?
Just click the comment box and let me know what you think! You don't have to register so it's real easy! Peace, Love,& Chicken, Susan
(Ally told me it's cool to say that)

Leeland

If you like modern Christian Worship music, then check out this band. They're called Leeland. Sweet Music!

My Best Friend

This is Kim. She is my best friend. I am smiling right now as I look at her picture and think about what a beautiful, wonderful, friend she is. ON Valentine's Day, Kim sent me a Valentine's wish,so yesterday I emailed her and told her about the heartaches I had been dealing with. Kim invited me to lunch, so we could talk about it. So we had lunch together, and just being with her makes me feel so much better! She is so warm and funny and just seeing her smile, makes your heart feel good! She is the kind of friend that I can be my REAL self with! There's not many people, I can honestly say I am 100 percent real with..is everyone that way??... but with Kim, I am totally..ME! (POOR KIM!!)
So we had lunch together, and I was sharing with her how heartsick I felt over Karen and her son, and My father-in-law, and mom..etc.. Kim listened (she is really good at that..I tend to talk ALOT)..and gave me some advice..but mostly just listened! She made me laugh, alot too, which is a great cure for heartaches...
After lunch we decided to go visit Karen and Carl at the hospital, and take her some dinner.. So we met again, a few hours later, and rode to the hospital together. We laughed so much on the way there..It doesn't mean that we weren't still concerned about Karen and Carl, but it just made our hearts feel a little bit better..and lighter...
Kim, Thank you for being my best friend! You bring Joy and Laughter to my Life!
I love you! Susan

A little Inspiration

Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference?

My feelings of God's presence—or God's absence—are not the presence or the absence. Whenever I fixate on techniques, or sink into guilt over my inadequate prayers, or turn away in disappointment when a prayer goes unanswered, I remind myself that prayer means keeping company with God who is already present. Prayer offers the chance to attend and respond to that presence.

Those crazy Clevelanders!!

A not so great Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day wasn't so HOT this year! First off, we got snowed in and were unable to get our vehicles out of the driveway to make some Valentine deliveries. Karen called and updated us on Carl's condition. He is not improving. : ( Tommorow they will take him by ambulance to a hospital in Pittsburgh, where he will get round the clock care. His condition is very serious, please continue to Pray for Carl, and my wonderful friend Karen, and her family. My mom called, and she was very down, because of several problems she's dealing with, and Joe's cousin called to tell Joe that his Dad was having a difficult time breathing. Joe tried to get his dad to go to the hospital, but he refused. Please Keep our parents in your prayers as well as, Joe and I.
On a good note, we were able to share a wonderful Valentine's Meal with our girls. We had a great dinner together. Stuffed Chicken Breasts, Mashed potatoes, Corn, cinnamon apple sauce and Italian bread..and for dessert.. CHOCOLATE, of course!
Here are some pics of the table set for dinner... I hope you all got to feel a little love today. Remember, JESUS LOVES YOU!!!! Susan

Feeling Lonely? This will warm your heart!

Happy Valentine's Day 2007

Happy Valentine's Day

200 7

I hope you feel loved today.

Joe and I are going to attempt to deliver some Valentine's to special people in our lives today, but because of the bad weather, we may not be able to make those deliveries. : * (

Today is one of my favorite holiday's because I love LOVE! I love to feel loved, and I love to give love. I love to make people feel good!

Tonight I am going to cook a special candelit dinner for my three main loves and surprise them with something sweet!

Joe surprised us all last night with his Valentine presents for us! He gave us all bouquet's of flowers *Roses for me!* *swoon* I also got some special body massage lotion!! *Bigger swoon* If you read my very first post on this blog, I told you a little bit about myself. I shared with you that my love language is physical touch...oooooooooh yes! So tonight I get a full body massage..and I have a BIG body!! hahahahah!

Peace Out

I love you,

SLH

Check out this magic trick!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tScm-eZInBE

Let it snow..Let it snow..Let it snow

.....A WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM TUESDAY TO12 PM EST WEDNESDAY. A MAJOR WINTER STORM IS EXPECTED TO AFFECT THE ENTIRE REGION TUESDAY INTO WEDNESDAY MORNING. LIGHT SNOW WILL MOVE INTO THE AREA BY TUESDAY MORNING RUSH HOUR. CONDITIONS WILL DETERIORATE QUICKLY DURING THE DAY ON TUESDAY...WITH SNOW BECOMING HEAVY ATTIMES BY AFTERNOON. BY EVENING RUSH HOUR...4 TO 8 INCHES OF SNOWIS POSSIBLE...LIKELY MAKING THE EVENING COMMUTE VERY DIFFICULT.ANOTHER 3 TO 6 INCHES OF SNOW IS LIKELY TUESDAY NIGHT BEFORETAPERING OFF WEDNESDAY. STORM TOTAL ACCUMULATIONS OF 7 TO14 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE WITH THIS STORM. THERE IS A POSSIBILITYTHAT THE SNOW MAY MIX WITH OR CHANGE TO SLEET MAINLY SOUTH OFINTERSTATE 76 LATE TUESDAY AFTERNOON AND TUESDAY EVENING. IF ITDOES...SNOW ACCUMULATIONS WILL BE REDUCED SOME.

Sunday..

Please continue to pray for Carl. He's still in critical condition. Please keep praying for Karen and Joy and their family. Also, Kim's mom has requested prayer..she's really not feeling well, and doesn't know exactly what is wrong.
Joe and I took a trip to see Joe's dad today. He was really happy to see us. We took him a homemade Roast Beef Dinner with potatoes and carrots, cole slaw and Italian bread. It was so nice to all sit and enjoy a meal together.
Joe's dad has emphysema and also bladder cancer. He's not doing too well either. As I said before, it really seems like a winter season in our lives..
The highlight of our day was driving home.. Ally asked Joe to turn the interior lights on in the car, and Lauren said, "Ally, I can do it from my seat" (she was sitting in the back seat right next to Ally) (She really can't..she wanted to play a trick on Ally)
Joe quickly caught on, and He would say, "Lauren shut off the light" and he would then shut off the light. Ally would tell Lauren to turn them back on..and Joe would secretly turn them on... We played along for several times. Then Lauren said, Ally all you have to do is clap and the lights will turn on by themselves. "NO WAY!! COOL!!" So Ally began clapping and the light would turn on and with another clap, turn back off.... then Joe said, "Okay Ally, dont wear the battery out..no more clapping" And the game ended.
Poor Ally...she thinks we have the clap on/clap off lights in our car.
CLAP OFF SUE

Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day is Wednesday! Do you have any plans?

The Luke Johnson Phone Experiment

Grin and Barrett Check out this blog post on the Luke Johnson Phone Experiment. What can WE post on YouTube, to become famous! I'm fascinated by the thought! ANY IDEAS???

Carl

My friends,
Please pray every chance you get for Karen J's son, Carl. He is in intensive care at Farrell UPMC. Pray for Karen and her family too. I spent the day at the hospital with Karen..she has incredible faith and strength that comes from the Lord. She is amazing.
Thanks, Sue

I'd like it to be summer of 2006 again..

I'm missing the beach! How about you? Where would you like to be right now?

Lucky Girl!

YouTube - John Mayer kisses girl at Oklahoma City concert Feb 3, 2007

OK. So lucky girl. she's at a John Mayer concert and holds up a sign, today is my birthday, I'm sweet sixteen and never been kissed. Wanna be the first? He obliges!
But here is the question of the day. Everybody now…You are 16. You are at a concert holding up that sign.What concert was it, and who would it be? At 16, mine would have been Shaun Cassidy right after he got done singing do do run run....met her on a monday and my heart stood still...

If you have some extra prayer time...

It just seems like so many illnesses, accidents, and tragedies have befallen people in my circle lately..if you are a prayin' please pray for these folks too..
My Uncle Bill who has bladder and prostate cancer.
Hillary, the wife of my brother's best friend, was in a serious car accident. She may not survive. Two small children at home.
My mom, still struggling with Life without my dad.
Kim's mom, not feeling well.
My neighbors on Hillcrest, son was killed in a car accident. He was 22.
Folks I knew and loved from FCOG.. George Freed (cancer), Rachael Sauders (car accident..broken heel and other injuries), Taylor Dettore (cancer)
Emily's mom.. and Emily, who takes care of her.
Valerie, lots of pain and suffering
It's winter time..spiritually too.

Anna Nicole Smith

You know what I thought about when watching CNN tonight, about the death of Anna Nicole Smith? I wonder if she knew about Jesus? Did someone ever share with her the gospel? Everytime we saw her on Tv, she always seemed so drugged up. You couldn't help but be embarrassed for her. Are there any good churches in Hollywood or Beverly Hills?
Money, Fame, Beauty... did they bring her happiness? Think about it...

Because I said so

Kim and I went to the movies tonight. We saw Because I Said So with Mandy Moore and Dianne Keaton. It was HORRIBLE! It looked so cute in previews. IT WAS HORRIBLE!! ROTTEN!!

PG 13 rated movies have gotten alot more racy! I would never let my daughter go see that movie! Have you ever walked out during a movie, because it was offensive or just horrible? What movie? Why?

XXXCHURCH

www.xxxchurch.com Check out this ministry. Craig Gross is the founding Pastor of x3. He reaches out to people in the sex industry and tells them about Jesus. Pretty cool! The clip from ABC news is very good at explaining what xxxchurch is all about. This is definitely outside of the box thinking isn't it? Isn't this exactly what Jesus Did?

Let me know what you think?

Shun the Non Believers!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5im0Ssyyus

So what do you think? Do you love or hate this video?

ilove...

my new ipod! do u?