You Can

"Do all the good you can, 
by all the means you can, 
in all the ways you can, 
in all the places you can, 
at all the times you can, 
to all the people you can, 
as long as you ever can." 

               - John Wesley

The Life You Can Save

If you're looking for a way to make a difference today, check out this effort by Peter Singer, author of the book, "The Life You Can Save."

Publishers Weekly describes the book this way, "Part plea, part manifesto, part handbook, this short and surprisingly compelling book sets out to answer two difficult questions: why people in affluent countries should donate money to fight global poverty and how much each should give...Singer doesn't ask readers to choose between asceticism and self-indulgence; his solution can be found in the middle, and it is reasonable and rewarding for all."

Take the pledge to donate 1% of your income to charity at http://thelifeyoucansave.com/.

I hope you have a beautiful day ladies and gentlemen. You are in my prayers XOXOX, Cheeky

John 3:8

"The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit."

Love and Laughter after 60 Years

This morning I came across this cute little story about the friendship between a couple who've been married 60 years. The husband has Alzheimer's now.

"The Gottliebs recorded their story in Los Angeles as part of the StoryCorps Memory Loss Initiative." (npr.org)

To listen to their interview click on this link and then click on the Red "Listen Now" button at the top of the article. It's sweet to hear their voices and how they giggle together.

Do you find laughter useful when dealing with stressful situations? If so, please share. I'd love to hear from you today.

I pray that you have a beautiful day, ladies and gentlemen.
xox, Cheeky

Image courtesy of StoryCorps.

Friends Make Us Better

"Friendship is a strong and habitual inclination in two persons to promote the good and happiness of one another." -Eustace Budgell

Thank God for friends who light our world with peace, love, honesty, acceptance, and compassion. Friendship is a beautiful thing.

You are in my prayers today. xoxo, Cheeky

Bird by Bird: Instructions on Writing and Life

In 1994, Anne Lamott's book, "Bird by Bird...Some Instructions on Writing and Life" was published.

I have no idea how she managed to record so many of my unique thoughts and feelings about writing. Or how she made them sound way more articulate than I ever could. I mean, back then, she didn't even know me.

Actually...there's a 99.999% chance she never will (ever the optimist I just can't bring myself to type 1-0-0-%). But after reading 150 pages of "Bird by Bird," I feel like I know some pretty important things about her. And THAT (to me), is a sign of a really great book.

One of my favorite things about her writing is the compassion and humor it conveys. I also love that Lamott is a Christian. And am secretly pleased to see swear words in a book written by someone who calls herself "born-again." I know this is not good.

One of my favorite lines is from the chapter titled "Index Cards:"

"I like to think that Henry James said his classic line, 'A writer is someone on whom nothing is lost,' while looking for his glasses, and that they were on top of his head." (Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird, Anchor Books, 1994)

Isn't that great? What good books have you been recommending lately?

Thank God for books. I pray that you have a blessed Monday, ladies and gentlemen. xoxox, Cheeky

NOTE: Image from PBS.

Romans 8:38-39

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39

Gardeners

"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." - Marcel Proust

I have no idea if the flower in this picture is a weed or a rare perennial. What is know is...I think it's beautiful.

Today I am grateful for ladies who know the difference between a weed and a plant one purchases. Thank you for adding beauty to this world.

And to the garden club ladies in our community -- thank you for allowing me to tag along. I'm happy for the chance to putter in the garden with you. I pray that you enjoy the beauty of this gift we call Planting Day.

xoxo Ladies and Gentlemen, Cheeky

Mini-Breaks

Good morning Ladies and Gentlemen! Today Rick Warren's Purpose Driven advice was stellar. His interpretation of what God says to us made me smile.

I pray that you have a God-kissed day. xoxox, Cheeky

For the Love of Annie

When I married at age 27, I chose a soiled “sample” wedding dress that brought proud tears to my mother’s frisky blue eyes. Regrettably, it had to be dry cleaned before the wedding.

When the dry cleaner tossed my clean-ish but not-yet-worn wedding dress over the counter at me a few weeks before the Big Day, she offered, "Some of the beads fell off. We put them in a separate bag for you.” Her casual observation sent this tightly wound bride into a state of near hysteria.*

The "some beads" were tiny oblong pearls originally arranged in symmetrical rows around the V-neck of an otherwise unembellished dress.

My girlfriend Annie was the one who sewed the beads back on in expert order.

This is not the only time she has saved my arse.

Today, in honor of all who have Mothered Others, I want to tell you a little about Annie.

I met Annie 25 years ago when we were freshmen in college.** She was an intelligent, witty, honest young lady with her whole life ahead of her and a beautiful exterior to boot. She excelled academically while thoughtfully pursuing a boisterous social life.

Annie is still all these things. Plus, she’s brave, Godly, and compassionate.

She did a few key things before I did like becoming a Christian, a Wife, and a Mother. More than once, I have called her to ask, “Why didn’t you tell me about thus-and-so?” as if it’s her responsibility to clue me in to any/all possibilities/consequences in these areas.

The night before my wedding, Annie stayed with me in the bridal suite. She said, “Awwhh” when I showed her the engraving my husband had chosen for my wedding band (“As You Wish,” from the Princess Bride). She was a happy, tearful bridesmaid for me just as I had been for her.

She burst out laughing and then smiled knowingly when pregnant with my first child I declared, “I don’t know when I’m going to have time for this baby.” She was already a Mom; I was an oblivious pre-parent.

When she visited shortly after each of our babies were born, she brought casseroles.

Annie is one of the few people who know virtually everything that occurred during the four-year crisis that led to the end of my 10-year marriage. To her I can say anything (and have) (not always with much grace).

Because of Annie’s integrity, her deep commitment to marriage, and her Christian faith, hers was one of the few voices that broke through the din during my desperate, fruitless attempt to hold our marriage together.

When Annie echoed the experts, "Maybe you really should consider a divorce,” I heard her. For that act alone I am eternally indebted.

Annie stood by me and supported me every step of the way through the mess of divorce and as I stepped with trepidation into the world of single parenthood.

For more than half my life, Annie has befriended, inspired, delighted, challenged, and spoken the truth to me. She makes my (our) world a better place simply by being her beautiful, authentic self.

God willing Annie and I will be there for each other as Grandmothers and beyond.

The Bible verse that most reminds me of Annie is Genesis 16:13. In this verse, Hagar calls God “El Roi,” meaning “the One who sees me.” It is my all-time favorite name for God. El Roi reminds me of Annie because she has given me the best gift one person can give another: She Sees Me.

Today please share a few words about someone who sees you. I’d love to hear about them.

oxooxo, Annie, and the rest of you beautiful Church Ladies and Gentlemen. You are in my grateful prayers, Cheeky

NOTES:
*“Near” is as close as this Minnesotan gets to full-blown hysteria.
**Annie is reading this for the first time along w/the rest of you. I’m just guessing here, but think she would probably want me to say that SHE started college REALLY young :)

Susan Boyle's Cheeky Reaction

In case you haven't heard, Scotland's church lady, Susan Boyle, is moving on to the finals of Britain's Got Talent.

Click here to see her reaction to the news. She is one saucy church lady; looks like she's having the time of her life.

When I saw this clip it reminded me of King David dancing in the streets.

"David, wearing a linen ephod, danced before the LORD with all his might, while he and the entire house of Israel brought up the ark of the LORD with shouts and the sound of trumpets.

As the ark of the LORD was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. And when she saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, she despised him in her heart." (2 Samuel 6:14-16)

What does it bring to mind for you?

Today I pray that you have reason to dance before the Lord. And that you actually do it.

Now that I've said that, I'll have to actually do it, too.

NOTE: If you record yourself dancing (fully clothed) (unlike David) and decide to post it on YouTube, please share the link with us. That would be so cool.

xoxox Ladies and Gentlemen, Cheeky

Remembering Their Sacrifices

1 John 3:1

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" (1 John 3:1)

Stillness

"In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you."

-Deepak Chopra, Indian author and physician

Krista Tippett Speaking of Faith

Good morning! I just have a second and want to pass on a link for American Public Media's "Speaking of Faith" program.

I had the honor of hearing Krista Tippett, host of Speaking of Faith, interview Joshua DuBois at the Fitzgerald Theater last night.

I also had the privilege of submitting a totally inane question which was not selected to be read on air. (Even though I tried to bribe the volunteer question collector to place mine on top.) For some reason they chose to read relevant and insightful questions from the studio and web audiences instead.

I love the respectful, intelligent, joyous, way Krista Tippett and the staff at Speaking of Faith do what they do.

In Minnesota, "Speaking of Faith" is broadcast on MPR News, 91.1 FM Sundays at 10 a.m. (I know you're all at church then) and 7 p.m. Or you can catch the show on the web at speakingoffaith.org

I am praying for you and for everyone striving to live a life of faith today. xoxox, Cheeky

What Are You Thinking?

"A man is what he thinks about all day long." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

What is on your mind today? Besides perhaps wondering what the heck Emerson's quote has to do with this picture? I see your point. The picture really does not have much to do with the quote.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6

OK, so that's WAY easier said than done.

I did have a point...

Oh yes, I think Philippians 4:6 tells us that we should not dwell merely in anxious questions or possible-future-scenario projections. And Ralph Waldo Emerson says that we are what we think. So we should avoid worry and think positively, right?

And yes, that was (almost) completely for my own benefit.

What are you spending your time thinking about today? If you could ask God one question right now, what would it be? And of course I know that you know that you can totally ask Him anything at anytime. Just thought it would be fun to share.

Thanks for reading, ladies and gentlemen. You are in my (completely) unanxious (I know this is not actually a word) prayers this day. xoxox, Cheeky

2 Corinthians 4:18

"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:18)

Parenting Tips for $$ Issues

This morning I received a message from the National Center for Fathering (fathers.com), an organization for Christian Dads. I contribute to them financially whenever I can and have also benefited from their compassionate parenting advice.

Yes, I know, I am not a guy. But I do appreciate the wise man's perspective.

Here's an excerpt from today's fathers.com mailing:

"Sue Shellenbarger, the work and family columnist for the Wall Street Journal, has written about how to help kids understand your own financial issues. Here are several of her insights with some added application ideas:

First, talk about lifestyle changes that need to be made, even with young children. Tell your kids the facts in a brief and straightforward way, giving them as many specifics as you think they can handle regarding income, expenses, and your budget. This is a great time to let them see some of the realities of money management.

Second, involve your children in the problem-solving process. Don’t feel bad if you have to tell them, “We have to find ways to spend less money.” Kids can handle that, and they might even surprise you by volunteering to make some changes to help the cause. In the process, you’ll learn more about what really matters to your kids.

Third, make it clear that while some things are changing, other important things are not—like your values, your faith, your involvement in their lives, and how much they mean to you. Young kids sometimes assume the worst and don’t always apply sound logic, so they may need to be reassured that things will be okay, you’re not leaving them, and your love for them will not change.

Read the article by Ms. Shellenbarger here." (source: www.fathers.com)

And now for a little something from a wise man named Paul: "For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength." (1 Corinthians 1:25)

I find this verse reassuring because I don't always get the good advice in time. And then, depending on the day, the time, place, and source, I may or may not listen when it is offered. Do you do that, too?

Today I pray for wisdom and perspective for all all parents. xoxox, Cheeky

Click here to register for weekly fathers.com emails (even if you're a girl).

Mother's Day Flowers

I had a sink full of flowers on Mother's Day. Why, you ask? Well, I'll tell ya why.

Because about 9 years ago I bought some super cute pots I intended to fill with Mother's Day bouquets for all the wonderful Moms I knew.

They really would have been some fabulous arrangements.

Back then I was a relatively new Mom permanently ensconced in Suburban Housewife-hood. I believed the people to be celebrated on Mother's Day were women (specifically married women) who had borne or adopted children.

A few things have changed since then. Including my marital status, my flower purchasing frequency, and the size of the pots I can afford to fill.

Another thing that has changed is my outlook on Motherhood. Now I firmly believe "everyone who has ever nurtured anyone" should be celebrated on Mother's Day (and throughout May a.k.a., Mother's Month).

This year I finally semi-delivered on the bouquet plan hatched 9 years ago. Coming up this month, more about the kitchen sink flowers and some of my favorite "Moms."

I hope you have a beautiful day, ladies and gentlemen. You are in my hasty prayers. xoxoxo, Cheeky

Honoring Mom

The gospel according to my mother: a woman who has always been about fierce love.

For at least the last 40 years, she's had a version of this on display in her and Dad's home. If she had a blog, there is no doubt this image would be prominently displayed at all times. I'm quite certain she's repressed the fact that I worked for a defense contractor for 7 years. I won't be reminding her of this today. (It's a long story.)

The Scripture equivalent (as I see it):
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God."

Happy Mother's Day ladies and gentlemen, xoxox, Cheeky

For the Love of Mom

As I prepare for Mother's Day weekend, Mom is on my mind. My mom is a complex, passionate woman who values justice, works for peace, and loves her children unconditionally. She's smart, resourceful, modest, cocky, kind, and true.

She cares about the whole wide world and all the people in it. She was an environmentalist way before that was a good word.

She taught her children to think and to act independently. Over the years, we have rewarded and punished her by doing just that.

She's a hopeless romantic who likes to talk about how she and Dad used to go dancing "all the time." She is a complete and total flirt.

An octogenarian who never leaves the house without first "putting her face on"' she still frets about the size of her waist. If I arrive to escort her somewhere and she's not wearing earrings, I know something is seriously wrong.

When she giggles, you can't help but join in.

My mom is rarely short on opinion. She's frequently known to say, "It all comes down to love." This almost always irked me until I had my own children.

Mom and I agree on many things but religion is not one of them. She often says, "I'm Catholic; I don't read the Bible." I think she's a bit leery of people who do.

This verse reminds me of her.

"[Love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."
1 Corinthians 13:7

I'm not sure if she'd be honored or peeved that that I just shared that with you. But I'm sure I'll hear about it from one of my siblings.

In honor of Mother's Day weekend, it would be really cool if you shared a thing you love about your mother. Then maybe also put that thought in a card and send it to her. Or if, sadly, she's no longer physically present here on Earth, do something fabulous for yourself.

More about Mothers next week. Now because I've written this...there is a 87% chance I will actually pull through for Mom myself this year. I've already been instructed not to bring a hanging pot of flowers because that would mess up the new siding on her garage. But I know she would really love a card. For a complex woman, she's pretty simple.

And now it is my distinct pleasure to admit she's been right all along. It really is all about love.

You are in my Cheeky prayers ladies and gentlemen, XOXOX, Cheeks

Not-So-Purpose-Driven Life

I subscribe to the “Purpose Driven Life” devotionals.

I enjoy them about as often as most things that are good for me…about 37.2% of the time.

That’s OK; I don't think they're always meant to be enjoyed.

I don't agree with everything Rick Warren says (I don't even agree w/myself 100% of the time). But his ministry has helped me stick to the "narrow path" many a day.

Occasionally, the Purpose Driven devotional includes a call for service that shuts me down. Some days my service simply cannot extend beyond preparing a semi-decent meal for my kids. And actually listening when they speak.

On those days (OK, this day), it helps to remember that Jesus said:

"The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent." John 6:29

If you're having a not-so-purpose-driven day, know that to believe is an act of service.

No one lives up to their purpose every day; celebrate the moments when you do. If you feel like sharing one of your shining purpose driven moments, by way of "comments" on this blog, please do.

I pray that the unfailing love and grace of Christ uplift you today. Bless you, beautiful children of God. xoxox, Cheeky

To sign up for Rick Warren's daily devotionals click here.

One + Three Things

"Be still, and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10. Thanks to the beautiful church lady who reminded me of this verse yesterday.

"Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth." From another really smart guy called Buddha.

You are in my prayers today. Thanks for reading. xoxox, Cheeky

Philippians 4:8

"...Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Bumbling Along

Wisdom received from a kind woman this morning, "God's grace is sufficient for all our fumbling."

You are in my prayers today, ladies and gentlemen :) xoxoxo, Cheeky

Swine Flu: Do Not Do This

What You Really Should Do: Distract Yourself

For some great chuckles, find an audio copy of "The Screwtape Letters"* written by C.S. Lewis and read by John Cleese. You must experience Cleese's delivery.

Lesser men have attempted to enliven Lewis' brilliant work and well -- ahem...they're just not funny.

Has anyone else heard this version of "The Screwtape Letters?"

Also, this might help:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Excerpt from a missive written by Paul to the Philippians 4:6-7) (Man, he was one smart dude.)

Oh, and remember to wash your hands.

You are in my frazzled-but-lovin'-it prayers today. xoxoxox, Cheeky

*This "purely for example" link may not lead you to best price for "Screwtape" audio copy but it's safe. The cover looks kinda scary but it really is funny. Click link to see what I'm talkin' about: http://www.amazon.com/Screwtape-Letters-Anniversary-C-Lewis/dp/1574532618/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1241082949&sr=8-4

Age of Good Intentions

I think they (the people who name things) should reconsider the term “middle age.”

Really, it should be called the “Age of Good Intentions” because that’s what the middle years are full of. Besides, some of us - I mean, "people" hate that term.

As parents of young children and children of aging parents, we are constantly stretched Pokey/Gumby-style 20 different directions.

This past week I stole some time out of my others-centered schedule to dine with dear friends. While we gathered over cocktails and a delectable family style dinner, one friend offered, “I meant to pick up three belated birthday cards and give them to you guys.” We went, “Awwwhhhh…that’s so sweet.” She thought of us.

Another friend told me, "I meant to pick up a style book for you." I don’t remember if I actually said “Awwwhhh,” (probably not, I’m kind of rude that way) but I did think it.

I've intended to be a better friend to all of them every day for the past 25 years.

You know what? I'm glad we’re finally old enough to believe what Mom has said all along. It really is “the thought that counts.”

In this hot mess of middle life, the fact that we enter each other’s minds at all is a gift. We might be too busy or forgetful to follow through, but our good intentions for one another are good enough. Great, in fact. It’s wonderful to simply be thought of.

So ladies, thanks for your good intentions; in return I give you mine.

Just a heads-up -- when we’re 80, the kids are gone, and our money is our own once again, I’ll be expecting some stellar gifts.

Have a beautiful Saturday, ladies. I’m off to volunteer for Compassion International.

“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ “ (Matthew 19:14).

If you want to know more about Compassion International, click on the link somewhere over that way -->.

You are in my prayers! xoxo, Cheeks

Susan Boyle: Scotland's Beautiful Church Lady

Susan Boyle on Britain's Got Talent
by dwarthy

Sin Series: Leaders and Sin

Cheeky here to summarize what we've learned this week:

1. Sin is Sin, all can be redeemed except if you quit caring altogether about redemption anyway.
2. There is not simply a list of "Deep Doo-Doo Sins" we should avoid. All sin should be avoided.
3. Paul and a bunch of other really smart important people in the Bible sinned.
4. There was one perfect person and that was Jesus Christ.
5. The goal for us poor Earthly schmucks is to seek redemption, aim for righteousness, but not expect perfection in ourselves or others.

Did I get that right?

The question I have for you today is:

In Romans 7:14-25 is Paul saying that he, the Great Apostle, author of a huge portion of the New Testament, struggled with sin even as he advanced one of the greatest Christian ministries of all time?

If so, where do we get the ideas that today's Christian leaders (e.g., pastors, etc.) should step down if they commit an especially public sin like say, just for example, divorce?

Is that a Biblical teaching or a man-made addition?

Anyone know?

I'm meeting with a pastor later today so I may know more tomorrow (about the role of Christian leaders and certain kinds of sins - but also just in general. He's a really smart guy. He's also gonna help me back-up my PC. Please still back-up my PC, BP :)

You are in my prayers today as always. Thanks for reading! xoxox, Cheeks

What a Wretched Man I Am!

Do you recognize this line?

These are Paul's words to the Romans (verse 7:24).

-NOTE: this is the third in a series on "Sin" that began on Sunday 4/19 and will conclude tomorrow. (Unless you tell me you want me to continue blathering on about it. YOU decide.) Did I mention you can leave comments at any time?-

There’s a whole section in Chapter 7 of Romans titled, "Struggling with Sin." In my Bible, half the portion is underlined.

I might have saved time by circling the entire page with pink highlighter, starring the margins, and drawing huge messy arrows pointing toward Romans 7:14-25.

I posted Romans 7:18-20 on Sunday. Romans 7:14-17 is more of the same great stuff (though not as detailed as I'd like it to be).

Here is the text of Romans 7:21-25a:

"...When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!"

Based on your comments from the other day, most of you have already glommed on to the “through Jesus Christ our Lord!” part. This is Good News! It kinda screwed up the series I had planned for the week but I’m flexible.

When I first read Romans 7:14-25, I thought, "This is awesome!" I love when the disciples admit to this kind of stuff. I also thought, "surely these sins are of the charming, innocuous variety."

If there is such a thing.

Help me out here, ladies. I'm really not trying to drag Paul into the gutter with the rest of us (OK, me).

But since I started pondering sins (as opposed to simply committing them) I have wondered -- what could Paul be referring to?

Does anyone know?

We are All in the Gutter

...but some of us are looking at the stars. - Oscar Wilde, Lady Windermere's Fan, 1892, Act III

**************************************************

Good news. You guys aren't nearly as uptight about sin as I thought you might be.

Yesterday, we pretty much affirmed what Oscar Wilde wrote in 1892.

It was great to hear from you yesterday. The chance to share our perspectives is the real power of the blog. I hope you continue to chime in.

More on one of my favorite topics tomorrow. The continuation of...The Sin Series. I'll wrap it up in time for Friday.

You are in my prayers, beautiful ladies (and two gentlemen). Thanks for reading. xoxo, Cheeky

Deep Doo-Doo Sins

This week we're gonna talk about sin. If you know any authorities on this topic, please invite them to join us. Biblical authorities are welcome, too.

The thing about sin is...well, it's just so darn interesting. It's a universal phenomenon. Yet even within Christianity, our perspectives vary widely depending on denomination (and for me, time of month).

I don't remember Jesus ranking sins from Bad to Worst. Or even categorizing them: "Kinda Bad but I’ll Let it Fly," "Worse but Still Marginal," and "Man, You are in Deep Doo-Doo."

There is one sin that is differentiated from others in the New Testament. From Hebrews 6:4-6:

“It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.”

The first time I heard this passage I thought it was pretty harsh. Then I shrugged my shoulders, raised my eyebrows, and thought, "That's cool." Because so far, at least, it hasn’t applied to me. There are times when my sins separate me from God but I've never disavowed His existence altogether.

How do you interpret this passage, ladies? Is this the “one sin” worse than all others? Does your denomination describe some sins as worse than others?

Today I pray that the Lord open our minds and pour in His wisdom. I also pray (sheepishly) that He put your hands on the keyboard and allow you to steal a few moments to join in this discussion.

I know that last part is selfish. Thank Him God’s grace is infinite. Now I have to pray for forgiveness. Again.

Bless you beautiful ladies. xoxoxo, Cheeky

Romans 7:18-20

I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. (The Apostle Paul, Romans 7:18-20)

Psalm 23

A beautiful friend’s Stepmother is dying; neither she nor her stepmom are afraid. Yesterday, over egg scrambles and bacon, my friend spoke of the comfort Psalm 23 has brought them.

The love and grace of God are evident in this ending. I know this is not always so.

It was not the case for me when my father died. He left us quickly. And for my needs: too soon. We did not discuss where he was going.

I'll never know if he would have found comfort in this. But today I do. I hope you do, too.

“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,

he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.” (Psalm 23, a psalm of David.)

Today when I pray for all of you, I include special prayers for those of you who are facing or grieving the loss of a loved one.

I know that someday, my faith will be tested with a loss that shatters. I hope when this storm comes, I am as strong and graceful as my friend is today. I don’t know that I will be.

I do know that when that time comes I will be thankful, as always, for her beautiful, bright church lady presence in my life.

Bless you Beautiful Ladies! Thank you for brightening this world with your church lady love.
xoxox, Cheeky

Stephen Colbert: Love at First Sight

A wonderful thing happened while my children were frolicking in Mexico with their other Mother during Spring Break. I discovered Stephen Colbert.

For six nights I slept in a friend's spare room because I don’t like being home alone in the dark. As if my kids somehow protect me when they're here?

Being in the company of good friends distracted me from thoughts of drug-addled thugs targeting my children. And BONUS: my friends have cable TV.

I needed laughter more than ever that week, so we watched a lot of Comedy Central. This is how I came to know and love Stephen Colbert.

By his own frequent admission, he is majestically handsome. His TV persona is so over-the-top, I have to be in a good mood to enjoy it. But most days, I find him wicked funny.

Colbert is also a committed Christian. The Washington Times weblogs had this to say about his show:

"Much of the religious content in Mr. Colbert's show is often portrayed through a lens of irony. 'What is worthy of satire is the misuse of religion for destructive or political gains,' he [Colbert] said. 'That's totally different from the Word, the blood, the body and the Christ. His kingdom is not of this earth.' " (Click here to see full text.)

"The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever." 1 John 2:17.

Here on Earth, I know I’ll never meet Stephen Colbert. But I do plan to hang with him in Heaven. Between my many tennis matches with Serena Williams. Which I plan to always win.

Colbert's interview with Bart Ehrman, April 9, 2009, is brilliant! He allows Ehrman (an atheist) to promote his book while Colbert simultaneously advances the cause of Christ. If you're in the mood for satire today, check it out:
http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/224128/april-09-2009/bart-ehrman

What do you think about Stephen Colbert?

Happy Friday, ladies!! You are in my prayers.
xoxox,
Cheeky

One Tip, Not 485

I received the current issue of "Woman’s Day" this week. The top article is "485 Tips to Live Well Every Day."

485? Are you freakin’ kidding me? While you’re at it, why not 62,700,587?

As soon as I saw this, the entire issue became the antithesis of "Playboy" for men. It will be something I read "only for the pictures."

I figure if you have time to read 485 Tips to Live Well, you’re livin’ pretty well already. At the very least you have a cleaning lady, personal trainer, a life coach, and a nanny. Possibly you have a live-in maid, personal chef, and a full-time masseur named Clint.

For the rest of us poor slobs, Jesus has 1 Tip to Live Well. It’s called the 2nd part of the Greatest Commandment or one of the most commonly quoted, misunderstood, and deceivingly simple statements ever.

Citing Leviticus 19:18 during one of the many times he patiently endured questioning (Matthew 22:39), Jesus says,

“Love your neighbor as yourself.”

As a semi-humble servant of Christ I suggest you start with the "self" part.

Have a beautiful day, ladies! You are in my prayers today.
xox,
Cheeky

Must. Do. Taxes.

I don't really even like worms. Especially not for breakfast. This is a good thing because I am NEVER the "early bird" when it comes to taxes.

Today with God's benevolent blessing I will finish my taxes. (I don't really think He blesses taxes. But I'll always take His blessing.)

As Paul wrote to the Romans,

“Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.” Romans 13:7

This guy doesn’t let us off the hook on anything, does he?

Anybody else wait until today to do their taxes?

Thanks for visiting. You’re in my brief, unintelligible, but well-intentioned prayers today.

xox,
Cheeky

Mel Gibson's Divorce

Last night, while investigating whether I could implement buzz.yahoo.com on this blog I came across this headline:

Mel Gibson's Wife Files for Divorce in LA (AP)
http://movies.yahoo.com/news/movies.ap.org/mel-gibsons-wife-files-divorce-la-ap

I felt sorry and surprised to hear this. Yes, I know I'm hopelessly behind the times. The thing is -- I actually hate this kind of thing.

Yesterday, following the text of the article, yahoo displayed a comments section where people debated whether Robyn should really leave Mel, how much money she'll get, whether he's a whack job...all sorts of nasty uglies. The comments are what really disturbed me.

The practice of strangers weighing in on whether someone has justifiably filed for divorce brings out the worst in us. And -- it ALWAYS hurts the children.

Why do total strangers feel they have a right to stand as judge and jury when any poor slob gets divorced, public figure or no?

What do you think?

If anyone has a scripture they can relate to this, please share.
Always xox, Cheeky

Aren't You the Gardener?

John 20:11-18 cracks me up. Maybe you've seen or heard this passage recently?

But Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.

They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?"

"They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.

"Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?" Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him."

Jesus said to her, "Mary."

She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).
Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'"
Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her.

There are a lot of things I love about this scripture.

My favorite thing (this moment) is Mary's reaction to Jesus. Yesterday, when I read it, I shook my head in recognition and chuckled.

If I was Mary, I would have been concerned, certainly, but also peeved. Because after all, I would have just gone to the time and expense of preparing annointing spices. And I might have actually remembered to bring them with me to the tomb.

My reaction to Jesus probably would have been, "Excuse me sir, but aren't you the gardener?" in my Minnesota-polite-but-not-actually-nice way. I'm embarrassed just thinking about it.

What is your favorite part?
I hope you had a blessed Easter! xoxox, Cheeky

Luke 24:1-8

On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.

While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.' " Then they remembered his words. (Luke 24:1-8)

The Passion of the Christ

Have you seen this movie? I've heard some people watch it every year around this time.

I haven't seen it since soon after its release in 2004. My reaction was mixed and intense.

I remember thinking, "This is sensationalism." I was repelled, "I wish they hadn't shown that." I questioned some of the details.

Yet I cried (bawled) through most of the movie. I was deeply humbled and aggrieved. "I can't believe what Jesus went through for us" was a frequent gut-wrenching thought.

One scene in particular seared my heart.

After Jesus utters “It is finished” (John 19:30) they show his mother's reaction to his death. The sorrow in her eyes is positively haunting. I didn’t want to look at her, as if this was a private moment to which I shouldn’t be privy. Yet the agony she conveyed was so gripping I could not look away.

That’s when I really lost it.

I was heavy with guilt and sorrow for a few days after that. Now when I think of how Jesus suffered, I often think of Mary as well. Thanks a lot, Mel Gibson! Seriously.

Do you think about it much? If you've seen the movie, please share your impressions.
xox, Cheeky

Humble TRIUMPHAL Entry

During his time on Earth, Jesus demonstrated humility in many ways. I find this terribly fascinating.

These days, if someone with real power acts humble I think, "What kind of ponzi scheme is this person running, anyway?"

If I was a world leader with power and prestige, instead of home leader with powerful morning breath, I'd be tempted to demonstrate that power (which I would hold so dear) pretty much every chance I got.

Is this true for you?

Let's take Palm Sunday for example. When Jesus is preparing for his Triumphal Entry into Bethlehem, he says to his disciples:

"Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, 'Why are you doing this?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.' " Mark 11:2-3

His disciples fetch the colt and throw some cloaks on it. Jesus hops on and rides into town over the cloaks and branches his followers have spread on the road. You know the story.

I’m thankful that we serve a Lord so renowned that throngs of people gathered to greet him as he rode into Jerusalem that day.

I’m amazed that this incredibly powerful man requested a simple, humble, colt. It’s hard to fathom doing the same.

What would you have requested?

I pray that the great and mighty, humble and kind servant we call Jesus be with you today.
xox,
Cheeky

Love, Love, Love

Jesus' words from John 13:34-35:

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

I pray that the Lord make his love palpable to you today; that he fortify you with his incredible strength. Keep runnin' the good race, beautiful church ladies and gentlemen. You inspire me.

xox, Cheeky

Gay Marriage Hits Heartland

I heard about the recent ruling ending the ban of gay marriage in Iowa while semi-listening to National Public Radio in the middle of the heartland.

I was washing dishes, enjoying the happy sounds of my two children puttering about, my winter-worn hands sporting yellow dishwashing gloves. Engaged in the everyday life of your average liberal-evangelical-house-divorcee, I was contentedly bumbling along in my regular-old thoroughly-heterosexual-female way.

This unexpected news filled me with inexplicable hope, anticipation, and a kind of joy. It felt like the beginning of a new adventure.

As living proof that heterosexuals don't have the whole marriage thing figured out I have hope that perhaps homosexuals will fare better. I don't believe marriage is for everyone; I can't recommend it for every soul on the planet. But I wholeheartedly recommend the gay people I know.

I wish for them what I wish for all my friends: love, peace, the joy that comes from knowing you are loved (unfailingly by God, preferably also by some humans). A few really great pairs of shoes, laughter every day, a roof over their head, and some darn good chocolate.

When gay marriage hit the coasts, the issue briefly came up during one of my Bible study classes. It was an uncomfortable, unedifying discussion (soliloquy). I heard snippets about the legal wrangling over gay marriage on the news and NPR. This impacted my life for a total of 2.79 seconds.

But when the issue landed in Iowa I was motivated to do a little research. This could affect some people I know and love.

I began with the Old Testament. I didn't even have to open the book; I know there were all kinds of crazy things happening in those marriages. I thought of King David and Bathsheba, Abraham and Hagar. Clearly the Old Testament isn’t going to clear up issues surrounding gay marriage in the 21st Century. At least not for me.

I turned to my favorite book in the world (truly): the New Testament. I wondered, what did Jesus say on this topic?

Some Pharisees came to him [Jesus] to test him. They asked, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason?"

"Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

"Why then," they asked, "did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?"

Jesus replied, "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery."

The disciples said to him, "If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry."

Jesus replied, "Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given. For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have renounced marriage because of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it."

Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society
Matthew 19:3-12 (New International Version), http://www.biblegateway.com

That didn’t help much either. So I consulted the “Focus on the Family” website. I found an article by Dr. James C. Dobson entitled “Eleven Arguments Against Same-Sex Marriage” (The full article has since been removed from Focus's web site. The condensed version I linked to above is all that is currently available.) (Probably because it was really, truly THAT BAD.)

Reading Dobson's rambling article jazzed me up like a week's worth of Starbucks. And not in a good way.

Now I’m just frightened. Not of gay marriage. Of Dr. Dobson.

Ladies and gentlemen, what do you think of all this?

Today I pray for wisdom and guidance, for patience and understanding, for tolerance, for strength, for discernment....and even though you may think I'm a heathen for disagreeing with Dr. Dobson, I pray all these things for you as well. May the Lord bless your day.

And now I've gotta go do some dishes. This time maybe I'll listen to my iPod instead of NPR.
xoxoxo,
Cheeky

Psalm 30:4-5

"Sing to the LORD, you saints of his;
praise his holy name.
For his anger lasts only a moment,
but his favor lasts a lifetime;
weeping may remain for a night,
but rejoicing comes in the morning."

"Bible Lady?"

Someone called me a “Bible Lady” yesterday. I’m not sure how I feel about that.

When she said it, an image of a judgmental middle aged woman with tall hair and angry eyebrows flashed through my mind. You know, the one who looks down her nose at you and won’t move over to make room in the pew.

I know that’s not how my friend sees me. Mostly because I don't have tall hair. I wondered: why is this what I pictured?

I’ve pondered it. Believe me. I guess it’s because I’m concerned about how some people employ the Bible. They use it to bash each other over the head.

As Paul wrote to the Romans in the earliest days of the church, “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another.” Romans 14:13. They were squabbling mostly about what to eat and how to act on Sundays.

Some things never change.

I know another thing that never changes: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8.

I pray that the Lord will wrap you in His loving arms today. Thanks for reading.
xoxox,
Cheeky

Enough About Me

...let’s talk about me.

Last night Stephen Colbert talked about narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder. I laughed so hard I nearly wet my pants (OK, so that's not saying much). The point is, I found it hilarious.

I may be somewhat narcissistic but I can say for sure that I don’t have narcissistic personality disorder. Although I have wished for it. Life would be so much simpler if I never empathized with anyone.

After Colbert and before I fell asleep, I read the story in John 4 about Jesus and the Samaritan Woman. Now here's a woman I can relate to. Not on every level, mind you (knock on wood). But in some ways she reminds me of me. I guess that's why I like her so much.

So, Jesus is traveling around town; he's tired and thirsty. He stops at a well and asks the woman who "happens" to be standing there to get him a drink. He spends some of his precious time on Earth talking with her. We get only so many pages in the Bible to hear about Jesus’ life and they spend almost a whole page on this chick.

She thinks the fact that he’s speaking with her is pretty amazing. First of all she’s a woman, secondly a Samaritan (Jews didn't associate with Samaritans), and third, she’s had five husbands. To top it off, she was living with a sixth man when Jesus stopped by looking for a drink.

She doesn't even know about the being recorded for posterity part yet.

Jesus tells her about “living water” and salvation. She says, “Sir, I can see that you are a prophet.” John 4:19. “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” John 4:25.

Jesus looks at her, with what I imagine to be a tender loving gaze, and declares, “I who speak to you am He.” John 4:26

I think, “Here this woman is...she’s talking to Christ and doesn’t even know it. I wonder how long it took her to get around to fetching him some water.” I smile, shake my head, and go to bed thinking…

That is totally something I would do.

Spring Break Feverish

At this moment my children are probably abandoned on a desolate beach, left without food, potable water, or a means to communicate with their Mother. (They texted me yesterday.) Still, I imagine them surrounded by bandits, enduring unspeakable atrocities, exposed to a plethora of contagious and deadly diseases.

Worse, I'm convinced they haven't applied sunscreen since Saturday when I surreptitiously slathered their faces one last time as I leaned into their father's SUV to kiss them good-bye.

If they do survive, they will almost certainly endure 97th degree sunburns, leading to severe chronic pain and causing each of them, successively, at the tender age of 22, to develop skin cancer just as they initiate brilliant careers and begin producing the grandchildren I have awaited since the moment my eldest child was conceived.

Meanwhile, I'm chilling out after attending the Chris Tomlin concert Sunday night.

Praise the Lord for Chris Tomlin, "You see the depths of my heart and you love me the same. You are amaaazzziiinnngg G-ahhh-dddd. You are amazing God."

Without his music I would really be a basket case.

I pray that our Lord Jesus Christ, who is faithful in all circumstances, bless you and your families today.
xoxox and :) ;)
Cheeky

John 14:27

Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

Never believe anything...

until it's officially denied.

"Mexican government is not on the verge of collapse, the top US intelligence official said Thursday, seeking to tamp down increasing alarm over the ..."
news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090326/ap_on_go_ca_st_pe/us_intelligence_blair

Yesterday when I signed the documents permitting my ex-husband to take the kids out of the country for spring break, the notary witness offered, "Mexico is very scary right now." Noting my trepidation, he then mumbled something conciliatory.

"Oh, really?!?! I hadn't heard!!," I wanted to say. A fresh pang. The Midwestern need to reassure, "Yes, I'm the Mother who thinks it's a bad idea," I answered with a pathetically hopeful smile. Lord please tell me I'm not signing away my childrens' lives.

I don't want the Mexican government to collapse. Ever. But if it does, I pray that holds off until, say, mid-April. That would work much better for my children and me.

"Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself." Matthew 6:34, I tell myself. I also tell myself: Breathe.

I also pray for you: for your relatives in Fargo, your homes, your jobs. You and your kids. Your lives in general.

Bless you beautiful ladies and one beautiful gentleman. Thanks for reading. I pray that you have a peace-of-the-Lord filled Saturday.
xoxox,
Cheeky

Hebrews 11:1

"...Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."

Why This Blog?

Once a week, I mentor a group of 5th grade authors. During our first meeting, one girl was completely comfortable explaining she has two homes.

Another other girl skirted the issue, “The phone number at Mom’s is…this is my Dad’s cell…”, instead of coming right out and saying “My parents are divorced. That's why I have 57 different phone numbers I can't keep track of.”

She slouched. She shrank like six inches. She turned sideways and peered up through her bangs. I asked, “Are your parents divorced?” She nodded sheepishly.

I had never before met this girl. We were sitting in an antiseptic public school room. More than anything at that moment I wanted to wrap her in my arms and say that everything would be OK, that she was loved, that she was beautiful and intelligent and that she should hold her head high. If I did that it would be my last day in any classroom.

Instead to my surprise, I raised my arms in the air touchdown style and cheered, “So am I!”, as if we had just discovered we shared a birthday or that we both loved eating half-melted chocolate ice cream with a plastic spoon.

I have never been a cheerleader. Mostly because I was too uncoordinated to make the squad. But in that moment, I became one.

I thought about my own children. How did they handle similar situations? Possibly they hung their heads and spoke hesitantly of our divorce. I hope not. Maybe like the first girl, they spoke confidently. Maybe they are totally fine with it. But the thing is, I don’t know for sure.

And then I realized that even when I was asked to explain it, sometimes I was totally fine with it and other times, not so much.

So I started this blog because I wanted a space for divorced Moms to be able to support one another and to discuss the most important thing: Faith in Christ. In the past ten years I've written nothing but thank you notes that weren't prompt enough and one embarrassing Christmas letter. When my writing instructor said “You should start a blog,” I thought, “Yeah, right” but subconsciously began pondering it in a noncommittal, vague sort of way. “Never underestimate the power of community,” she had said.

Thanks, beautiful church ladies, for spending some of your precious time in this community today. I know you don’t have much to spare.

As Paul said in 2 Thessalonians 3:16, “May the Lord…give you peace at all times and in every way.”

My Scarlet "D"

On my birthday six years ago, my ex-husband moved out of the home we were supposed to share happily-ever-after. It was the worst birthday I’ve ever had. But it wasn’t without its gifts.

For the better part of the past six years, I was encumbered by an ugly, itchy, surely-obvious-to-the-entire-world-even-from-outer-space Scarlet Letter "D." Much like Hester Prynne’s Scarlet Letter "A," or a hideous version of Laverne’s "L" from the Laverne & Shirley show.

Do you ever feel like you’re wearing a Scarlet Letter "D?" Do you think that when Paul wrote, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him" (Romans 8:28), he meant “except for divorce?”

As we journey toward healing from divorce, our perspectives evolve. From where I’m standing, at least most days, I can see the gifts associated with my Scarlet "D." Navigating the difficulties of divorce is our daily reality. Equally ours are the blessings we find along the way.

In Luke 18:14, Jesus says: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Divorce is humbling, without a doubt. But that, in the end, turns out to be a gift.

May you treasure the gifts God has in store for you today. Keep smiling. The Lord is with you.

Crazy Straw Kind of Day

Everyday, when I stumble in my faith, I think of the apostle Peter. The “Rock” of the church who walked with Jesus, who possessed incredible faith, yet did as Jesus predicted, “before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” Matthew 26:34.

He had the power to speak so eloquently that he converted three thousand people one day. Sometimes, like us, (I’m including you with me here, hope you don't mind) he spoke before thinking.

Peter, the man who “walked on the water” (!) before sinking because he was afraid. Jesus reached out his hand and pulled him to safety. “You of little faith,” Jesus said, “why did you doubt?” Matthew 14:31.

Sometimes it’s hard to see Jesus’ hand at work in our lives. We doubt, we sin, we fear, we fail. Then we get down on our knees and look up. And Jesus is always there. He will not let us drown. (Unless, of course, we're literally drowning. In which case we probably wouldn't be on our knees.)

We may feel completely under water (in more ways than one), stranded with nothing but a kids’ curly crazy straw in our mouths. We stretch to stick the straw out of the water. We get just enough air between waves to survive. But we survive. And we grow. And eventually we thrive again.

If you are having a crazy straw kind of day, remember, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

May the Lord bless your day. If you stumble, picture Peter sinking into the water, smile, know that you are loved, and keep walking toward Jesus.

Zephaniah 3:17

"The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."

Why “Church Ladies?”

Some of my friends have suggested “Church Ladies” is a bit old sounding. But I love the image it conveys. For me a “Church Lady” is someone loves the church and everybody in it. She’s so happy to see you she can barely contain herself. She’s old enough not to care about her age, wise enough to be kind, humble enough to be gracious, experienced enough to be compassionate.

The term also reminds me of Dana Carvey’s “Church Lady” and that makes me smile. I think there’s a little bit of her in all of us. We all have moments when we want to purse our lips and say, “Well, isn't that special?!,” don't we?

The Church Lady I aspire to be has eyes that glow with love, a smile that welcomes, a spirit that calms you down. Her very presence lets you know that things are going to be OK. It’s OK if you’re late for church. Your baby puked all over you on the way out the door. Jesus understands. He’s just glad you’re there.

You will encounter "church ladies" (I will not bother to capitalize for them) that seem to look down their nose at you. That’s just fine because they look down on everybody. In those cases, it helps to think, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23.

When you encounter a smiling, loving, accepting church lady, you’ve seen a bit of the Lord. In that case, give thanks and remember Jesus’ words:

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14

May you and yours encounter the best kind of Church Lady love this day.
xoxoxox, Cheeky

First Entry

Today I invite you to share in the journey of a divorced Mom with an abiding but imperfect faith in Christ who is sometimes a smart-aleck but who always hopes for the best.

For all you formerly married Moms whose lives have been, shall we say, "realigned" by divorce, there are two things I know:

1. God loves you.
2. There is a more wonderful, beautiful, sometimes-hard-to-believe-how-good-you’ve-got-it-despite-everything-you’ve-been-through life ahead of you. It is uniquely yours and yours for the taking.
3. Also, I know a third thing: I'm partial to dashes.

I hope in these pages you will find some encouragement. I pray that that the Lord will grace my fingers and His incredible love for you will be revealed, however slightly, through my silly wandering prose.

For now I’ll leave you with this:

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

Thanks for visiting. I would love to hear from you. May God bless and keep you in His loving, able arms.