Friday, April 23, 2010

A good reminder!

A good reminder about the importance of manners!  It's easy to get frustrated, but really good manners starts with each of us.  If you give a rude person a smile and gracious response, you may save another from the same rude response.  You catch more flies with honey than vinegar!

www.hillbillyhousewife.com/blog/?p=3325

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Think On These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.


I Peter 3:16--Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

I Peter 3:8-16 talks about doing what you are supposed to do and not rendering evil for evil.  Then is talks about having a good conscience.  It struck me that it is so easy to "get back" at others or to be unkind and really, we not only hurt others but ourselves as well!  When we are unkind, we will have that on our conscience and it really isn't worth it to have to remember how you were unkind.  The moment's satisfaction you may get by snapping at somone is going to be spoiled by the guilty conscience. 

Now to remember this ALL the time!!!

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

A New Job--the novel

My job has been becoming increasingly difficult, largely due to budget cuts that have affected our business, causing lay offs and an increase in patient loads.  We have seen our nursing department cut by 34% since November.  This has been pretty difficult on my heart.  I have been praying about finding another job, even begged God to give me peace about changing jobs and cried more than a few tears over my job--largely for the people whose lives have been/will be affected. 

About a month ago, God gave me peace to look for another job.  I put in a couple of applications, one I was really interested in, the other not so much.  I prayed that I would only get called to interview for the job that God would give me. It became apparent that I probably wasn't going to get either job, so I went ahead and applied for another one that would be a nurse manager over ENT and Audiology.  I really didn't think I was very interested--after all, all they do is take out tonsils and put tubes in ears.  Not to mention, snot and spit aren't all that appealing!  The more I prayed about it, though, the more I felt I should apply, so I did.  I put my application in a week ago Thursday. 

On Monday, I got a call for an interview.  We set it up for Wednesday at 9am.  On Monday and Tuesday night, I did some research and discovered ENTs do everything from tonsils to face and neck reconstructive surgery to cosmetic surgery to treating cancers.  Audiology also works with people with balance problems.  I also enjoy working with deaf people.  This was sounding a lot more interesting!

On Wednesday, I had to go to Human Resources first to meet with the recruiter.  When I got there, they handed me a ten page job description written in legalize to read.  This wouldn't have been so bad, but they had me sit in the lobby area with three people talking rather loudly about their home renovations and all the difficulties they had and how mean the electrical inspector was, but how nice the building inspector was.  It is not easy job to read and comprehend legalize when you are nervous and have people rather loudly carrying on a conversation! Next, I went over to interview with the gentleman who would be my boss and the recruiter and didn't really feel like my answers were all that great.  I answered their questions honestly.  It was rather nerve racking.  I don't know if I've just blocked out other interviews, but they asked questions like "What is your management style", "If you get this position, what will be your first priority?"  They also asked questions that were really three parts in one!  I remember my brain hurting.  They were really impressed that I had done some research. They told me they had another interview after mine and that they were planning to set up some more interviews for Friday, so I would hear the beginning of this week if I was a "final candidate." 

In the mean time I had really been praying about whether I should tell my boss I was looking for another job.  I knew that conventional wisdom is not to, but felt deceitful a little selfish not letting her know.  I didn't have peace about not letting her know, so when I got back to the office, let her know that I was looking for another job largely due to the insecurity of my current job.  She understood and told me that I had her permission to do what I need to do to get the job, including not giving a four week notice (I had been concerned about needing to give a four week notice because they currently don't have anyone in this position and are anxious to get someone.) 

I went back to my office and my phone rang, it was the clinic calling to see if I could come in on Friday to meet with the doctors because they had liked me at the interview.  Of course, I said yes. 

On Friday, I met with the doctors.  The gentlemand who would be my boss introduced me to them  and others (telling on of the docs they had found me "delightful" at the interview--think he must have been at a different interview because I certainly didn't feel delightful--I did pray afterward that God would allow them to only remember the good things I said and forget the other things) as if I was going to get the position and let me know that I was the only applicant they had brought back.  I was pretty excited.
On Monday afternoon they offered me the job.  I asked about going to the Grand Canyon this fall and they are fine with that.  :o)

God answered my prayers in so many ways.  I had prayed that God would give me a job making at least a dollar less than I do now, He gave me a pay raise!  I also prayed that I would get at least 3 weeks vactation, but really didn't think I would get it--He gave me 18 days!!!  I also have benefits including:  health insurance, dental insurance (totally paid by employer), life insurance (totally paid by the employer), long term disability insurance (totally paid by the employer), continuing education budget for myself, the option of tuition reimbursement, and 7 paid holidays.  I also won't be putting all the miles on my car for work driving around to client's houses and branch office.  :o)

I still have a lot to accomplish at my current job before May10!  I am really going to miss the people I have worked with. 

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Think On These Things Thursday


Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Following God's Leading

Proverbs 3:5-6--Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

I have been praying about finding a new job for about a year.  God has not given me peace about moving on, so I have stayed put.  Last month, He gave me peace about pursuing other jobs.  I had an interview this week and that is a whole other story, which I will tell you if I get the job.  :o)  I have been praying about whether to tell my boss or not.  I have worked at my current job for over seven years, we've been through some pretty interesting times together and there is the possibility that decisions could be made that would be made differently if she knew I was looking for another job.  I know that conventional wisdom is not to let your employer know, but I didn't have peace about following this.  I told her and she was sad, but understanding and told me she would do whatever she could to help me get the job, including not having to give a four week notice.  Giving a four week notice has been a big concern for me because I know they want to get this position filled ASAP.  I am so happy I followed God's leading.  I have much more peace of mind and no longer feel deceitful.  I am in no way saying you should always let your employer know that you are looking for another job, however you SHOULD follow God's leading.

I think it is wonderful to be able to leave God in charge of our lives and leave the worries to Him!!!

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Kitchen Tip Tuesday

How to Make Your Dog a "Helper" in the Kitchen/Free Dog Treat

We have a rather spoiled, VERY well loved dog who allows us to live in "his" house.  :o)  He enjoys being in the kitchen when I cook, I'm sure to keep me "company." 

I hate cleaning out cans/jars so they can be recycled.  He enjoys cleaning out cans for me.  A win, win.  I have a can opener that does not leave any sharp edges.  When I have a can or a jar that needs to be cleaned out and the contents are safe for dogs, I give him the can or jar and he very cheerfully cleans it out for me, then I just pick it up when he is done and put it in the recycling. 

Ways this is a helpful:
  1. I don't have to do a chore I don't like.
  2. I'm saving water.
  3. It keeps my dog busy and out from under my feet.
  4. I hate having anything left in the jar, now I can feel less guilty because I am providing nutrition to my dog.  (I still get as much out as I can with a spatula)
  5. I often get my feet warmed up in return.


Now I just need to teach him to take the can/jar TO the recycling!

Here is a link to a website that has a list of not safe foods for dogs:  www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+1659&aid=1030

For more great Kitchen Tips, visit:  www.tammysrecipes.com/easy_avocado_dicing

Our crazy dog, Duke:



Monday, April 12, 2010

Prayer Request

Please pray for me on Wednesday morning.  I have been praying about making a major change in a certain area of my life and I have to meet some people to see if they would be willing to allow me to do that.  Sorry for the "code".  I'm not sure who all reads this and those who know about this will understand and hopefully those I would rather not know right now hopefully won't.  :o)

Early Morning Walk

"T" decided last night that he would like to start going for walks in the morning.  Something that I've been "meaning" to do.  I had to run to the store last night to get an essential item.  He went to bed before we could discuss it further.  When hubby and I went to bed, there was a note on our alarm clock from "T", letting me know he had set his alarm clock for 0630 so we could get in a 20 minute walk.  :o)  We went for our walk the dog even behaved, only needing to be reminded twice to walk nicely (NO pulling) on the leash.  It was a nice time together.  Now to stay motivated to keep this up!

P.S.  I'm torn between being ashamed of myself for not doing this before and being proud of "T" for motivating me. 

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Think On These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

There are times when it is difficult to wait on the Lord.  We just want to have that answer NOW!  Waiting on the Lord, though will save us much heartache and difficulties.  If we try to run ahead of Him, we will end up without His protection and blessing.  How much better to put our lives in His hands and remove the worries of trying to live our life on our own.

I am so thankful for God's promises below:
Isaiah 40:31
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Proverbs 3:5-7
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.  Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.

These are pictures of Ma'Ayon Harod or Gideon's Spring.  This is where God narrowed down the number of soldiers from 10,000 to 300 by the way they drank the water.  Gideon's story reminds us of the importance of waiting on God and following his guidance.  Gideon could have easily tried to do things on his own and what a disaster and missed blessing that would have been.

*I'm going to try to post pictures of Israel as I think of one that is applicable and maybe just for fun.  :o)

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Kitchen Tip Tuesday


Quicker Cutting Up Celery

I used to hate cutting up celery because it took so long to cut up each individual stalk.  Now, I keep the celery bunch together and use a sharp, large knife to cut the whole bunch at the same time.  I basically cut off the very tops, because the ends are all dried out, then I cut off the bottom portion that is unusable, then I cut the rest of the bunch into as large of pieces as I want.  Then I wash the celery.  Yay!  Celery ready to go in about 2 minutes!  You can freeze the leaves to use in soups.

For more great Kitchen Tips, visit:  http://www.tammysrecipes.com/node/3811

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Happy Resurrection Day!

Okay, I'm going to admit that the whole Easter bunny and eggs thing has never made any sense to me.  I am not going to say that I am anti-Easter bunny, etc.  However, it does make me a little sad that to many people the Easter bunny and getting candy, etc. is all they know of Easter.  I was really excited to have 54 kids in Junior Church today.  We had quite a few new kids that may have never heard the truth about this day before.  We had 6 people total get saved, three in Junior Church and 3 in the main church service!!!

Have a great Resurrection Day!  Don't forget all that Jesus did on the cross for us and that He rose again so we can have eternal life!

Here are some pics from out trip to Israel in 2007. 
Gethsemane--where Jesus prayed right before He was betrayed and taken away to "trial".


We think this is Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified. 

The Garden Tomb.  This is where we think the Garden Tomb is.  No one really knows for sure where Jesus was buried, but this tomb would make sense.
The empty tomb.
This is a picture of the garden around the tomb.  It is beautiful and well kept by a group of British Christians.  It is a wonderful place.  They have areas where you can sit as a group and sing hymns, discuss Christ's resurrection.  Our guide was a retired Baptist pastor.

Friday, April 2, 2010

Thoughts on Politics

As I posted earlier today, I think that God is still in charge.  However, I do have a few other thoughts that are keeping me sane.
  1. We don't have to watch or listen to the news if it is stressing us out, go on a news fast--listen to good music or sermons.
  2. The USA IS the best country on the earth, however there are many other countries in which people not only survive, but love their country and are happy--with out the perks of living in our country.  If our way of life changes somewhat, we WILL survive and even be happy here still.
  3. I think that the current political climate has awakened the American people to pay more attention to who they vote for.  Hopefully people will start paying more attention and not just vote for someone because of their party affiliation, good looks, or persuasive speaking manner.
  4. Never fear, if you should lose your job or have you income drastically reduced due to new legislation, there's a new government program for that! ;o)
  5. Remember to pray for our government officials.  I pray that God will:
    • Save those who are unsaved
    • Give them the desire to do what is right
    • Help them to make decisions that are best for our country
    • Give them the desire to put our country first, not their political careers or pocket book!
    • I have at times asked God to keep them awake with all the ways their bad decision will affect others. 
  6. Again, I cannot stress enough the importance of remembering God is in charge.  Proverbs 21:1 The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.

Think On These Things--Belated


Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Isaiah 41:10
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

This has always been one of my favorite verses.  As a young kid, I was scared that the Russians would come and kidnap me.  I realize as an adult this was a little silly, but there were times I couldn't sleep because I was terrified they would come through my window and kidnap me.  After I learned this verse, it really helped--when I was afraid, I would quote this verse over and over.

I know that a lot of people are scared and worried about the political decisions that are being made--  AND they are scary.  HOWEVER, God is still in charge.  He has also promised never to leave us or forsake us.  Furthermore in Isaiah 41:10, He tell us not only to not be afraid, but also not to be dismayed because He is with us and our God!  He also promises to help us and uphold us.  I love that He says He will uphold us with His righteousness.  What a contrast to the evil currently going on around us.  God's righteousness will win in the end.  Every person making decisions in Washington D.C. and around our country will some day answer to God.  They may have power and fun for a few decades on earth, but we have an eternity of bliss to look forward to!