Courage

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“Courage is not simply one of the virtues but the form of every virtue at the testing point.”
― C.S. Lewis

This struck me so profoundly because courage is so often required of us in taking the "right" action in our lives.   You know, we've gotten so politically correct in our lives, careful not to step on any one's toes or hurt feelings and just all get along and be happy - that for us to speak up and defend our other virtues requires courage.   My intellectual curiosity got the better of me to understand by definition the virtues Lewis would be referring to from his time.

From Wikipedia :  In some Christian traditions, there are four cardinal virtues:

• Prudence - able to judge between actions with regard to appropriate actions at a given time
• Justice - proper moderation between self-interest and the rights and needs of others
• Restraint or Temperance - practicing self-control, abstention, and moderation
• Courage or Fortitude - forbearance, endurance, and ability to confront fear and uncertainty, or intimidation

These were derived initially from Plato's scheme (see Protagoras 330b, which also includes piety (hosiotes)) and adapted by Saint Ambrose, Augustine of Hippo, and Thomas Aquinas (see Summa Theologica II(I).61). The term "cardinal" comes from the Latin cardoor hinge; the cardinal virtues are so called because they are hinges upon which the door of the moral life swings.

My note:  Further, Catholic tradition often adds an additional three (hence why I kept thinking there were 7!)  Faith, Hope and Love (Always good things!)   As well there's a different list of 7 Heavenly Virtues written by a Christian poet before 1000 AD, very similar, and while courage isn't mentioned, Diligence is.  It may all be in the translation.

But that's not the point - the point is the importance of Courage.  Courage to take a stand, resist temptation, admit a mistake.     Courage just to take action at all.   So in line with my last theme of "don't be ruled by fear", this reminds us that we must also move out of our comfort zone.   Someone once said to me "be willing to put yourself out there".    It can be a lonely place.   But that "comfort in numbers" thing is overrated (in my opinion) when it comes to standing up for what you believe in and representing who you are and how you want to be remembered.

I am not afraid

Yesterday it occurred to me that I was not afraid.  Okay, that's probably not a thought most people have just in their day-to-day life!  So to put that in context:  What it really means is that I haven't let fear rule my life the way I used to.  The old "corporate" me had a good life, one that put great value in the security that my job provided.   If anything came up that might "shift" that security, I was fearful.   The post "corporate" me - let's call it the "free" me - was initially scared to death because I had defined so much of who I was around a job.    After moving through the shock phase of what had happened, I started listening (and believing) what my wonderful man kept telling me "Its going to be all right".

So, caution and fear were put aside (but not completely gone - I've certainly had my days / moments).   I learned to trust in what my husband was saying and for the very first time in my life, to really trust in God.    Psalm 46:1 says:  God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear.

This Psalm was in front of me this morning as I randomly opened a page of a devotional.  I was reminded to my thoughts yesterday and felt compelled to share and to remind those who might need a nudge or push to overcome something fearful in their life.

Proud Momma!

SO.... we all brag about our kids some times and its the pride we feel in their accomplishments that prompt us to do this!

LAST NIGHT, A SONG FROM BOY 2's BAND WAS PLAYED ON THE RADIO!!!!!!

HOW COOL IS THAT!!   They played their song "I'm Getting Bored Again" and actually mentioned the band twice.  When it completed, the DJ's (are they still called that?) started their "critique" and compared their sound to a popular, up-and-coming indie band.   It really was the coolest.   Here's their link - I like their stuff.   There's 5 or 6 songs out here so check them out!!!

Mute The Idol | Louisburg, KS

Seems to be my life

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“She’s got this real funny idea about a diet: you don’t get fat if no one sees you eating.”  - Gloria Naylor



I think I may have been following this one!   LOL!!   Time to stop!!

Snow Day!

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Another heavy snow means another snow day!   Just finished clearing our driveway - the old fashioned way, with a shovel!    (Not like the picture here with the snow machine!!!) That has to count as my work out, right??     I'm counting it and am going to sit here and put my feet up and enjoy my coffee knowing that I have to go no where!

Don't Worry, Be Happy

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Being happy. Who doesn't want that, or if we are happy, we want to be "happier" because its a state of mind we can't get enough of. I found this article on-line at RealSimple.com (SIDE NOTE: I'm a little concerned because this like seems to be my only source these days. I need to maybe branch out, but this magazine/site is just a fit for me. So editorial note here that I am a little one-sided and biased in my opinion!) ANYWAY...I know in January something happens to me. I kind of hibernate like a bear. (LOL - maybe this explains all the cookies I ate in December!! Nature was just having me store fat for my long winter's sleep!!) Seriously, though. When I get home I just kind of hit the couch, wrap up in a blanket and don't move. Waking up in the mornings is tough; blanket is over my head, and my mind says "not again!". So, when I saw this article I was interested and thought I need all the help I can get until the bright days of spring arrive and I can shed my winter blah's!!


9 Things You Can Do to Be Happy in the Next 30 Minutes
Surprising ways to instantly improve your mood.

by Gretchen Rubin

1. Raise your activity level to pump up your energy. If you're on the phone, stand up and pace. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Put more energy into your voice. Take a brisk 10-minute walk. Even better... 

2. Take a walk outside. Research suggests that light stimulates brain chemicals that improve mood. For an extra boost, get your sunlight first thing in the morning.

3. Reach out. Send an e-mail to a friend you haven't seen in a while, or reach out to someone new. Having close bonds with other people is one of the most important keys to happiness. When you act in a friendly way, not only will others feel more friendly toward you, but you'll also strengthen your feelings of friendliness for other people.

4. Rid yourself of a nagging task. Deal with that insurance problem, purchase something you need, or make that long-postponed appointment with the dentist. Crossing an irksome chore off your to-do list will give you a rush of elation.

5. Create a more serene environment. Outer order contributes to inner peace, so spend some time organizing bills and tackling the piles in the kitchen. A large stack of little tasks can feel overwhelming, but often just a few minutes of work can make a sizable dent. Set the timer for 10 minutes and see what you can do.

6. Do a good deed. Introduce two people by e-mail, take a minute to pass along useful information, or deliver some gratifying praise. In fact, you can also...

7. Save someone's life. Sign up to be an organ donor, and remember to tell your family about your decision. Do good, feel good―it really works!

8. Act happy. Fake it 'til you feel it. Research shows that even an artificially induced smile boosts your mood. And if you're smiling, other people will perceive you as being friendlier and more approachable.

9. Learn something new. Think of a subject that you wish you knew more about and spend 15 minutes on the Internet reading about it, or go to a bookstore and buy a book about it. But be honest! Pick a topic that reallyinterests you, not something you think you "should" or "need to" learn about.

Some people worry that wanting to be happier is a selfish goal, but in fact, research shows that happier people are more sociable, likable, healthy, and productive―and they're more inclined to help other people. By working to boost your own happiness, you're making other people happier, too.

Back to Basics

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So, in this quest to have a simpler life, I have looked at all aspects of my life.  Housecleaning, haircare, makeup, etc, and I've shared some good and bad finds along the way.     Here's another one.


Being 40-something my skin no longer has the "fit" or feel it did 10 years ago, and this time of year I suffer from dryness.    I switched from department store lines to products found at the drug store, making sure to purchase a "good" nighttime moisturizer.   I've always used cold cream to remove eye makeup (cheap and not so oily as some products) and in my laziness one night I used the cold cream as an all over moisturizer.   The next morning my skin looked and felt amazing!   So I decided to experiment and try this for one month to see if it would continue!    I am totally pleased with the results.  My makeup seems to be lighter than I've ever worn because my skin underneath is smoother.  AND it is costing so much less!!!   I have to laugh about this, though, because Cold Cream was the only product my mother ever had.


 Over the years, I was never very disciplined about moisturizing my skin and I feel like I'm paying for it now.   So my advice to you ladies in your 30's:  Its not about the product you use - just that you use something to moisturize your skin at night, every night!    Now if I could just find a non-surgical product to tighten my eyelids - I'm starting to get hoods!!!!  Maybe with my savings on this I can splurge a little.    Also for the record, I'm fine with wrinkles - I figure I've earned them!   I'm just worried that someday my eyelids won't open!!


FYI - This is the first time ever I've seen a method for removing these.  I've had clients with this problem so now I found a solution.  (Compliments of Real Simple!)
How to Remove Non-Slip Decals in Bathtub:  Spray the decals and the surrounding areas with WD-40, lifting the edges to get underneath, if possible. Let sit, then gently scrape away the decal with the edge of a credit card. Degrease the tub with liquid dishwashing soap.

Whats New in the New Year

So...January is half over (Yikes!) and I'm looking to see what's shaping up for 2011.

• Real estate is busy, busy (for our team anyway)  We have added listings each week and written 6 contracts!   We are hopping and this is a good thing for which I'm thankful!  
• Economy supposed to be recovering but gas prices UP.   We'll be looking to consolidate trips to the "city" and driving the vehicle with the best gas mileage
• New bible study.  Not sure about this one - especially since the first had such a profound impact on me.   We switched small groups and I'm not sure I'm going to continue.  The topic seems too "light" for me right now.   Always something holding me back.  (I'm struggling right now with the "fit" of this church because as I've previously mentioned, the friend involvement is complicated when you are starting on such a significant path.  I had convinced myself to actually commit and join the church, but I've backed off....again!)
• Clearly my news of career and life change is now "old" but of the 10 or so people I'd asked to come along with me on my journey, there are three who seem to be committed.   The really surprising thing is they are not the three I (or anyone else!) would have predicted would be there for me.     I am thankful to them; I don't think they'll ever know how much.
• Exercise:  Okay - this is a battle right now.  Need to get back to this.   I cannot believe I have let a full month go by and have lost so much momentum.     Of course, the new-found food group (chocolate!) which requires 4-5 servings is also the culprit!!  This has to stop.    Next year - there will be NO Christmas baking.   (Of course next year I hope to be spending Christmas in a warm & sunny place with no trappings of the holidays!  Stay tuned for that plan.)

So some changes, some things the same, and some things I need a kick in the butt to get moving!   I will pray for them all.   Happy Monday!

Words to Think About

“When nothing is sure, everything is possible.”   Margaret Drabble


What hopeful words.   Sometimes I can feel the fear of not knowing creep around me, but if you just flip it around and think a different way, it becomes clear that no definition means no boundaries.  Sky's the limit kind of thing!  Nothing to stop you - just keep on to the top (or the side or stay still or whatever you want!!!)  That's the beauty!   Have a great day!

Comfort Food in No Time!

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I'm sharing a couple of recipes here because I'd like to think that maybe someone somewhere actually reads my blog! And if so, they deserve a something for that!!!

In the summer we grill. (And we is kind of stretching it - its usually my husband technically operating and monitoring the grill.) This winter the crock pot has been my answer to his grill. I have been awed how I can cook two dinners but have four nights dinner (just a switch on the sides for two). In the winter, one of the favorite comfort dinners when the icy winds blow is Chicken & Noodles. Normally, I would make this using a whole chicken (boil, cool, skin and de-bone), then on to vegs, and simmering all day. I always used frozen egg noodles (as I never had the courage to try homemade!). This year I have modified the Chicken & Noodles so its easier and actually better for you!!! As well, I'm including a great cookie recipe that I won't say is Healthy or good for you....but its "better" for you in comparison with a regular chocolate chip cookie! Hope you enjoy!


Chicken And Noodles


Baby Carrots (1 bag) - chopped

Celery - two stocks - chopped

1/2 white onion - chopped

4-5 Chicken Breasts (can be frozen!!!)

1 can Corn

1 box Chicken Broth (I use 99% Fat Free - 32 oz)

Spices: Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper, Bay Leaf (I just 4 - we love the flavor); chicken bouillon or Better than Bouillon Chicken Paste

1 bag Egg Noodles (frozen)

• Combine all ingredients EXCEPT Egg Noodles. Cook all day on Low. 
• An hour before wanting to eat, boil the noodles. Take out chicken breasts, shred meat, and put back in. 
• Add cooked noodles, switch to high for about 1/2 hour or so. 

Blueberry and White Chocolate Cookies

1 cup all purpose flour

1/4 Cup wheat germ

1/2 Tsp baking soda

1/2 Tsp salt

1/4 Tsp ground ginger

1 egg

3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

1/3 cup canola oil

1 Tsp vanilla extract

1.2 cup oats, quick-cooking or old-fashioned (not instant)

2 ounces white chocolate, chopped ( I USED DARK CHOCOLATE)

1/3 cup dried blueberries (I made one batch with dried Cranberries - which I prefer)

1/4 crystallized ginger, chopped (I couldn't find so I omitted and they turned out fine!)

• Position racks in upper and lower thirds of oven; preheat to 375°F.
• Whisk flour, wheat germ, baking soda, salt and ground ginger in a small bowl. Whisk egg, brown sugar, oil and vanilla in a large bowl. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; stir to combine. Add oats, chocolate, blueberries and crystallized ginger; stir just to combine. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto 2 ungreased baking sheets, 1 1/2 inches apart.
• Bake the cookies until puffed and barely golden around the edges, switching the pans back to front and top to bottom halfway through, 8 to 10 minutes. Cool on the pans for 2 minutes; transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. 

Miscellaneous Monday

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We are seeing the first "significant" snow storm of the season in my town today!   All prepared and ready for a couple of quiet days.  If you are fortunate to have an unexpected snow day, do something fun with your kids:  have them cook breakfast, tell them about your snow days as a child, or play board games.   If no kids, catch up with friends via letters or email, read a book or watch an old movie.   I wonder if it isn't God's way of saying...."Hey, you need to chill and take some down time".   I know employers (non-school) don't really have snow days, but a vacation day or working from home might be the ticket!    Snow storms for me have always been a thing of both beauty and power.

My morning devotional book was on Proverbs 10.   The discussion centers around peoples names and asks the question, what will people remember when your name is mentioned after you die?, ending   with the advice to "leave a Godly legacy".   For anyone who has been reading this, they will know that this very topic was something that was troubling to me in my previous corporate life.  I can't say that I've done anything great by any means.  However, those closest will remember that I did take a chance; I risked security for a life with more purpose.   For now its only a start, a place to begin.   I am hopeful and prayerful that a direction and path will become more clear and that I will leave a legacy of example and hope.

Enjoy the week!

Organizing Tips

Today I am sharing some great organizing ideas (some I've used - some I will be using.) I've already said that pull-out baskets or shelves in kitchen cabinets are the best thing since sliced bread! These were taken from my fave (& only) magazine "Real Simple"

• Tie colorful ribbons from gifts you’ve received around sheet sets so individual pieces don’t stray. That way, you’ll never have to waste time hunting for matching pillowcases again.
• Repurpose shoe boxes and bank-check boxes (both lids and bottoms) as drawer dividers.
• Put instruction manuals in a three-ring binder and you’ll never rifle through drawers again.
• Hang a three-tiered wire kitchen basket from the ceiling of a closet for extra storage in empty corners. It’s a great spot for socks.
• Designate one shelf in a utility or linen closet for party essentials, such as candles, place cards, napkins, vases, and the like.
• Attach a piece of corkboard to the inside of your linen-closet or laundry-room door and use straight pins to affix extra buttons and packets of thread.
• Attach delicate silver nails to a closet wall and drape necklaces from them―pretty and practical.

Notes:  In my master closet, I actually used cork boards to organize my jewelry and I love this!!!   My earrings and necklaces are together - no more searching!!    (See blog post for 7/30/10).  Also on the binder for instruction manuals, I also keep receipts for improvements, paint colors, repair receipts, and any other information pertaining to our home.  This is really helpful when you go make an improvement or you are selling your home.    (I'm off to find a wire basket because I really like this idea for my laundry area!!!)

Take the first step ...

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Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.  (Martin Luther King, Jr.)

I've spoken before of my kids, nieces and nephews who are ALL doing wonderful things.   It is such a wonder and blessing to me as I see / hear about them.   I am in awe and yes, envious.

My niece "Erin" is a wonderfully, talented writer who obtained her master's degree in Creative Writing from De Paul University and is now teaching English in Korea for a year.    She has a definite love of travel and cultures, and she is ACTING on it.  She is DOING what she loves - and no, I don't think its the teaching part.  That's just them means to an end; she is experiencing a new culture and has the ability to travel other parts of the world while doing so.  

When I first heard of this whole idea of hers to teach in a foreign country, I was hesitant.  (At the time I was wrapped up in my corporate life, security and all that!!!)   Today, I applaud her courage and determination. Is she getting rich?  Maybe not in a financial sense, but what life is not richer for having experienced a different place and culture?  

Its a good reminder that chances are often worth it.  Don't wait until later or retirement to DO things you want or love.   Do it now.

Its a New Year

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New Year, new opportunities!  That's how I look at this new year.    I was trying to decide if I was going to have resolutions or written goals, and determined that really this blog already kind of covers that.  I determined that really since its over my half-way point, i am looking at 2010 as the year of change and reflection with 2011 being the year of ACTION.    At first, it was kind of like "oh,  a lot of pressure" but the more I thought about it, the more I decided it was exciting to look at it this way.   Much better to be action oriented instead of having to come up with an idea!  

My goal was to have a life with less things and more purpose.   So I've purged EVERY room now.  Much more streamlined AND no plans to purchase any more things!   And so now to bring purpose to what I am doing.   In real estate, we are working several short sales.  We make less money, have to work harder for more people, but when successful there is some benefit for all.   It avoids a foreclosure sale which hurts all in the market, and offers a better credit future for the homeowner.  I am participating in bible study and want to be active in a church.  After helping at the homeless day shelter for women, I know I can and will do more.  So I think its fitting that 2011 be the year of action for me, the time when it will all come together!

Happy New Year to all and I hope that 2011 is all you want it to be!   I read somewhere that the words "someday I will.." is just a means to keep pushing your dreams into the future.   "Some Day" needs to be now.