Spring Madness

It won't hit fifty degrees here today, I know that. But just hearing it on the Milwaukee weather forecast made me give in to the spring cleaning urge. Indiana Ann's in Florida, the traitor, and can't smack me upside the proverbial head to tell me not to hang the blankets outside on the Twelfth Day of Christmas, otherwise known as January--yes, JANUARY--6th in Wisconsin.

It's like saying, "let's get married on December 1 UP NORTH, darling." Yes, Andy, I mean you.

But it feels good. I let the spring monster come right up to me, look me in the eye, and bow to its will. Like knowing there's been a tornado in every month (but February? Or did that happen last year?) in Wisconsin - far from Kansas.

It's okay. The weekend should be ten degrees warmer. Not normal yet, but closer. We still had a patch of snow near the deck. We caught a deermouse in the laundry room. We're having fish caught through the ice for supper...

Okay...it's clouding up. The strangely Oz urge is going...

Thank heavens.

But it will smell like spring tonight. Sweet to dream by; soaking up the promise.

Anne McCaffrey: You Will Be Missed

Anne McCaffrey (April 1, 1926 – November 21, 2011)

I fell in love with dragons when I was twelve. I’d been chewing through Thomas B. Costain and lost in the romance of early Britain when I saw it: the frontpiece of an early edition of The Black Rose with the perfect dragon. I copied it in art class the next year as a huge print which has hung on a wall of each place I’ve lived since.

I read a review for The White Dragon and went to buy it, but the bookstore was out, so I purchased a different book in the Dragonriders of Pern series by Anne McCaffrey and I’ve been hooked ever since.

I knew I’d met a kindred spirit when I read her little bio in each of the books, which in part reads, “My eyes are green, my hair is silver, and the rest is subject to change without notice.”

I tried to read other books in other series, but I’ve always adored the Dragon Riders the best. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/24/arts/anne-mccaffrey-dragonriders-author-dies-at-85.html

Her writing isn’t literary, it’s not always perfect in form, but as far as world-building, she was certainly one of the best. As far as sharing memorable characters and readable books, she will always be one of my favorites. I collected the books and even a book at Pern. I read the books over again, which is my way of judging of my enjoyment of the read. And yes, she’s influenced my writing, maybe for the best; maybe not. I thank her younger son Todd for continuing the series…it will never be the same, but that’s okay. I read the latest one over the weekend: it won’t be my favorite, as the “ew” factor got a little bolder (those of you not squeamish can ask me if you’re curious), but I’m still glad Pern will live on.

Because of these books, I have a substantial collection of dragons around my house, including gifts from around the world.

Read the eulogy: http://pernhome.com/aim/2011/12/eulogy-for-anne-mccaffrey/

A movie version will begin production in 2012: http://collider.com/david-hayter-dragonflight-dragonriders-of-pern/85654/

I've been curious about a movie version, but can't imagine it will match the stories.

The Twelve Days of Christmas

The Carol, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" has always been a favorite of mine, even when we made the original torture decoration when I was a kid. (Those lovely pears are not styrofoam but plastic. I have permanent indentation in my fingers from pushing in those pins to anchor the sequins. Mom gave this back to me this year, and I proudly hang it.)

The real meaning behind the “12 Days of Christmas”

From 1558 until 1829 Roman Catholics in England were not allowed to practice their faith openly. During that era, this carol was written as a catechism. Each element in the carol has a religious point which the children could remember.

PARTRIDGE in a pear tree was JESUS

TWO TURTLE DOVES were the Old and New TESTAMENTS

THREE FRENCH HENS were FAITH, HOPE and LOVE from I Corinthians 13

FOUR CALLING BIRDS were the GOSPELS

            (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John)

FIVE GOLD RINGS represented the LAW - first 5 books

            (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy)

SIX GEESE A-LAYING stood for the days of CREATION from Genesis 1        

            (day & night, sky, land & seas & vegetation, stars, sea creatures & birds, land creatures & humans)

SEVEN SWANS A-SWIMMING were the ARMOR OF GOD in Ephesians 6

            (Belt of Truth, Breastplate of Righteousness, Boots of the gospel, Shield of Faith,             Helmet of Salvation, Sword of the Spirit and Prayer in the Spirit)

EIGHT MAIDS A-MILKING were the BEATITUDES in Matthew 5

            (Poor in Spirit, kingdom of heaven; Mourn, comforted; Meek, inherit the earth; Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness, filled; Merciful, shown mercy; Pure in heart, see God; Peacemakers, called  sons of God; Persecuted, kingdom of heaven)

NINE LADIES DANCING stood for the fruit of the SPIRIT in Galatians 5

            (Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control)

TEN LORDS A-LEAPING were the TEN COMMANDMENTS from Deuteronomy 5

            (Have no other gods, make no idols, do not misuse Lord’s name, keep the Sabbath, honor parents, no murder, no adultery, no theft, no lies, no coveting)

ELEVEN PIPERS PIPING were the 11 faithful DISCIPLES

            (Matthew, John, Bartholomew, Thaddeus-Nathaniel, Peter, Andrew, James, Thomas, Philip,

Simon, Philip)

TWELVE DRUMMERS DRUMMING were the twelve points of the APOSTLES CREED

            (1. I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; 2. and in Jesus Christ, His only-begotten Son, our Lord; 3. who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; 4. He descended into Hell, the third day He rose again from the dead; 5. He ascended into Heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; 6. from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.  7. I believe in the Holy Spirit; 8. the Holy Christian Church; 9. the communion of saints; 10. the forgiveness of sins; 11. the resurrection of the body; 12. and the life everlasting.)

Beating off the Christmas Blues with Poppy Smith

Eight Ways to Beat the Blues at Christmas By Poppy Smith Instead of a houseful of kids and their little ones running around laughing, crying, playing with toys and sneaking treats, this year my husband, Jim, and I will be home alone for Christmas. My automatic reaction is to feel sad—but I am glad that all of them will be celebrating the coming of Jesus with their in-laws. After all, we are usually the ones who get that privilege! But—it’s easy to be sucked down into a “poor me” mindset and play the blues, unless we decide to change our perspective. So here are eight simple ways to help you enjoy the holidays whether you’re physically or emotionally alone. Why not join me and let’s beat those blues which aren’t where God wants us at this special time of the year—or at any time! Sing. Play music. Listen to the words and join in praising God. Singing is a guaranteed mood lifter and perspective changer. “Sing for joy to God our strength” Ps.81:1. Smile. Smile at little children. Their harried moms. The older shoppers who are trying to find just the right present. Make smiling your chosen expression (not through gritted teeth, however!). It will make you feel so much better and maybe lift up another lonely soul. Invite. Is there someone you haven’t had time for this past year? Could you suggest meeting for coffee, lunch, or even over to your home? Perfection isn’t needed—only a loving heart that looks beyond it’s own world. Rest. Remember all those too early mornings when you longed to just stay in bed? Now’s your chance. Take time to read a book of the Bible or several psalms. Choose a special book, magazine, or television program. Make or buy some once in a year yummy treats and ENJOY this gift of time! Give gifts to others. Go online and look for simple Christmas recipes. Make peppermint candy or a cranberry loaf and go drop it off at a homeless shelter or place that serves those without a home. Change your perspective from looking inward to looking outward—as God our Savior did when He gave us the most amazing gift of love any one can receive. Write a list of your blessings. Think back over this past year. Even if it has been one of the most difficult you’ve experienced, ask God’s Spirit to show you where He was present, loving and supporting and guiding you through. He will show you something and lift your heart. Go to a Christmas Eve Service. Even if you’re by yourself, don’t miss the presence of God amidst the beauty of this celebration. Let your senses feast on the beauty, your ears delight in the music, your heart be moved to new heights of gratitude and love. Pray about your dreams for 2012. What do you want to see happen in the coming year? Have you thought about changes you want to make? New paths to walk? Write out what comes to mind when you think of taking better care of yourself physically, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually. (See my video: Take Care of Yourself, …….. or check my website on the media clips page). May your “Home Alone” Christmas fill you with joy and a fresh awareness that Christ is with you, whether you’re surrounded by people or peacefully alone. Author Bio

Poppy Smith With her fun personality and passion for communicating life-changing truths, Poppy Smith inspires believers to thrive spiritually and personally. Poppy’s practical how-to messages (in print or in person) uses colorful examples from her own struggles to be more like Jesus. She encourages women (and men, at times) to grow in every kind of situation—whether joyful or painful! Poppy is British, married to an American, and has lived in many countries. She brings an international flair seasoned with humorous honesty as she illustrates Bible truths. A former Bible Study Fellowship Lecturer, Poppy’s teaching challenges women to look at their choices, attitudes and self-talk. As a result, God’s speaks, changing hearts, changing minds, and changing lives.

Sign up for Poppy's THRIVE newsletter at: http://www.poppysmith.com/newsletters.htm

Taste and See

He Sees You...

He Sees You When You’re Sleepin’... By Dr. Charles W. Page Do you recall trying to sleep on Christmas Eve while waiting for Santa to come to town? The anticipation of Saint Nicolas and all his goodies was just too much—who could sleep? The lyrics of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" taunted me. “He sees you when you’re sleeping—he knows when you’re awake…” I tossed and turned trying to fall asleep, fearful I’d miss out on Santa’s visit if he caught me awake. I never doubted Santa’s ability to be aware of my wakefulness. Unfortunately, as adults, the issues that keep us awake during the Christmas season are more complicated than those we experienced as kids. Financial burdens, strained relationships, difficult decisions, brooding regrets and fretful thoughts race through our minds and hinder our rest. There is someone who “sees you when you’re sleeping and knows when you’re awake.” It’s not Santa Claus. The Bible reminds us, God’s eyes never close. Perhaps this truth can tuck us in for the night. “He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psalm 121:3-4) We erroneously think that as we “turn in” that God somehow “turns off” or moves on to do more important things. But God doesn’t wait for us to wake up before He returns to work. God is just as active during our sleep—or sleeplessness. Believers can rest assured knowing God is awake guarding our lives. What does God do as we slumber? Psalm 127:1-2 reminds us that God gives to those that He loves as they sleep. What does God give? Understanding God’s generous nature, one rendering would be that God gives to the believer whatever is needed at the time. God can give you wisdom and direction with decisions as you “sleep on it” overnight (Psalm 16:7, James 1:5). Maybe there is a financial need. The scriptures are filled with examples of how God provided for the physical needs of those He loved as they rested (I Kings 19:1-8; Exodus 16:1-8). God’s gifts are good, perfect (James 1:17), eternal (Ephesians 1:3) and purposeful (Galatians 5:22-25). They do not require batteries, warranties and cannot be purchased in stores. But they are available 24/7/365—not limited to one night each year. God’s greatest gift did not arrive under a tree but on a tree (John 3:16). “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him freely give us all things?” (Romans 8:32) It’s plain to see, God has our back as we sleep. Try this Christmas recipe for rest. Repent—in areas where we are aware of our transgressions. “A clean conscience makes a soft pillow.” Release—control of problems you’re facing and give them over to God. Relate—connect with God through prayer and meditation while in bed. Rest—allow God to do what you cannot do for yourself as you sleep. Receive—God’s unmerited forgiveness, grace and blessings while you sleep. An English proverb reminds us, “As you make your bed so you must lie in it.” The truth of God’s Word helps us face our situations. Although we cannot change the failures of our past, we can rest with a clean conscience based on God’s gift of forgiveness. Our current circumstances may appear overwhelming, but God gives His presence and His guidance in our hour of need. Our future is secure and hopeful when God’s greatest gift—His Son—is kept in view. A life supported by a vibrant, healthy relationship with the Shepherd of Sleep makes the most comfortable mattress. In childlike faith learn to trust Him as you lie down to sleep and remember: “He sees you when you’re sleeping.” Author Bio

Charles W. Page, M.D. Dr. Charles W. Page is a sleep-deprived surgeon who completed medical school and residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. Dr. Page is currently a rural surgeon and has taken numerous medical mission trips to South America and the Middle East. He and his wife Joanna live in Texas with their five children. He is the author of Surrendered Sleep: A Biblical Perspective. You can find more information at surrenderedsleep.com.

Surrendered Sleep A Biblical Perspective by Dr. Charles W. Page PUBLISHER: Camino Real Publishers ISBN-10: 0983138109 ISBN-13: 978-0983138105 PRICE: Paperback: $14.95; Ebook: $10.95 Available at: Amazon Surrendered Sleep

From Kathy Carlton Willis Communications If you enjoyed this article, you might like this post at Reflections in Hindsight. ~Lisa

Nike Chilemmi's Goodbye, Noel

JOHN 3:16 MARKETING NETWORK BOOK LAUNCH Monday, December 19, 2011 ASIN: B006LTHI1I by Nike Chillemi Will a young pediatric nurse be able to care for an infant whose mother was murdered and escape the killer who has struck again? The first body is found under a trimmed Christmas tree, the second as they ring in the New Year (1947), the third goes head long out a window. Will a young pediatric nurse determined to make it on her own be able to care for an infant whose mother was murdered and escape the killer who has struck again? Can she trust the stalwart village detective with her life and her heart as he works to catch this killer before somebody else dies? Pediatric nurse, Katrina Lenart, grew up strong willed and independent minded, while sharing her mother's flair for high fashion. When the police chief gives her an orphaned baby to care for, her maternal instincts take over and she's willing to fight anyone who might not have the infant's best interests at heart, even the man she's growing to love. After an attempt is made to kidnap the baby, she and the resolute village detective team up and do some sleuthing, undercover at a cult as well as at a fancy ball. Detective Ian Daltry is a widower with a child and is not interested in a new love. Hunting a killer who stops at nothing has placed him in the position where he must protect a beautiful young woman he's drawn to. Is there's something he's overlooked in analyzing the case? Will he find out what that is before this ruthless murderer kills someone he loves?

What Others Are Saying!  "Wow! Nike Chillemi knows how to set the hook into readers right from the first page and refuses to let go. GOODBYE NOEL is a taut thriller, peopled with intriguing characters and crafted by an author at the top of her game. Don't miss this one!" ~~ Robert Liparulo, award winning author of THE 13th TRIBE, COMES A HORSEMAN, GERM, and THE DREAMHOUSE KINGS "All I can say is WOW. I can see how Ms. Chillemi got her nickname of the Crime Fictionista. She sure does know how to build a story - and a crime plot... It's heartwarming, gut wrenching, edge of your seat intriguing, and just plain sweet all rolled into one. Check it out for yourself, it's a wonderful read!" ~~ Donna B. Snow, acclaimed author of DAFFODILS Nike Chillemi has been called a crime fictionista due to her passion for crime fiction. She was an Inspy Awards 2010 judge in the Suspense/Thriller/Mystery category and a judge in the 2011 Carol Awards in the suspense, mystery, and romantic suspense categories. She is the founding board member of the Grace Awards and its Chairman, a reader's choice awards for excellence in Christian fiction. She writes book reviews for The Christian Pulse online magazine. BURNING HEARTS is the first book in the crime wave that is sweeping the south shore of Long Island in The Sanctuary Point series, published by Desert Breeze. GOODBYE NOEL, the second book in the series will be released in December, 2011. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and the Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers (Ning). DON'T FORGET Monday, December 19, 2011, is the official launch day for Goodbye Noel by Nike Chillemi Visit Amazon to get your copy today!