The World of Virtual Reality

I thought I had seen just about everything until I played in a virtual reality world. Virtual reality is a simulation of a three‐dimensional image or environment that you (Hannah and me, in this case) can interact within this seemingly real way using special electronic equipment, like helmet/goggles with a screen inside or gloves fitted with sensors. That's Bear in the middle of this collage laughing hysterically at his girl and me!

A friend left his virtual reality system at my children’s home. It was the opportune time for my grandson, his girl friend and me to play with it! First, Bear, with the system, virtually outlined the field of play that kept us from running into furniture or walls. Hannah was up first. She put on the goggles, held the hand grips and whoa-la, she was moving about the room that Bear had outlined. It was funny watching her make her way getting through whatever I could only imagine.

Then it was my turn. First, I held the hand grips and saw that I was in a Star Wars setting. That's me oohing and awwing at the sci-fi room I was in. I could see that my hand grips were electronic gloves and before I knew it, I was exclaiming “Oh, I’ve got a lightsaber! Oh, did you see that?” (Of course, they didn’t. I was the only one in this world.) I heard them laughing at me like I was laughing at Hannah. THEN, Bear changed the scene, and in this world, I was on the floor but in virtual reality, I had boarded a kayak and used paddles to make my way through glaciers in Antarctica. I saw penguins everywhere, a whale and other fish jumping beside me. At one point, I even felt the cold of being there, but that part was my imagination – I think!

What a great experience to see what virtual reality is and what it promises to be in the future. We’ve come a long way, Baby! Just look at the real “reality” of online church, teleconferencing, and so many other computer-generated opportunities for us to carry on life during this pandemic. Technology is quickly changing the world that we live in and the way that we do most things. I hear that Virtual Reality technology just might be the new way of attending church and doing business in the future.

It’s “Twilight Zone” reality to me, but so was internet technology forty years ago. I understand that businesses and churches might not need physical space and will even opt into virtual office and worship experiences. Businesses and churches will literally be without walls. You won’t need to drive anywhere. Just plug the family in, download your Sunday outfit, and materialize in worship. I’m wondering if I’ll still be alive to see it. Sure makes me wonder what is in the mind of God because He surely isn’t surprised by any of this.

Here’s what will never, ever change. Regardless of technology and split-second visuals of each other, our goal should and will forever be all about loving God and loving each other. We will still be called to care for the poor, and the sick and help those in need. We will still be charged with living intentional lives that give praise and glory to God in what we do, say and how we live. Particularly, with all of our new technology and creative abilities, we’ll, more than likely, need to practice humility and love and service even more – because THAT reality is what it means to faithfully follow Jesus.

So, maybe we should be practicing Jesus’ example of servitude in the reality of caring more about others than we do ourselves. Seriously, I believe we are in training for what God is coming up with on His Holy radar. I suspect He’s preparing us to see and appreciate the awe, beauty and splendor of how He is ever right here with us, never changing, in our vastly changing world.

Bananas & a Bright Idea

A few days ago, my cousin, who lives just a few blocks from me, came over for technology help. I’d like to think that I was the tech-guru that she thought I was, but after an hour of trying to figure out the problem on her phone, I admitted I was at wits’ end. I was baffled and disappointed for both of us.

Earlier in the day, I was at Sam’s and purchased their 3-pounds-for-$1.28 bananas. After Mary Ellen left, I saw the bananas on my counter. I knew I wouldn't eat them all, so I decided to take some over to her and her husband. All of a sudden, I had a bright idea about that phone issue. With bananas in hand, I went to their home and put the idea to task. In just a few minutes, problem solved and all their electronic devices were in-sync. We shouted “Hallelujah” and "happy" danced!

The dance wasn’t for me. It was for He, Who gave me the insight. I knew I had tapped into my power source -- my divine Know-it-All. My ability couldn't get the job done, but the answer came from He Whose ability is unlimited. I believe the Holy Spirit, the One Who Jesus said would come to take His place because He had to go away (John 16:7) was where the answer for this dilemma came from. Holy Spirit has the answer to everything. Here's how I explain it. When the power company comes and hooks up electricity to our home, they don't come in and turn the lights on for us. That's our job. The power is there -- ready for us to flip the switches.

And in a similar way, we were hooked up to the Holy Spirit when we believed and received Christ. He imparted power to us to not only be able to tap into God's wisdom and understanding, but when we "turn on the switch", He gives us power to overcome the enemy’s tactics. He lives in us. But, we have to "turn on the lights" -- rather we acknowledge that He is our helper, our counselor, our comforter, and our peace. AND, He knows everything about everything, so we tap into His wisdom that is way beyond our grade level and experience.

May we power-up and be filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit and allow Him to radically transform us from weak, fearful, anxious and timid believers to empowered people of love, hope, boldness, and courage, with the bonus of getting wisdom from our divine Know-it-All. We just have to flip the switch of faith in His "bright ideas"!

See Ya' Later

Unlike attending a funeral before these times, within the last two months, I traveled to two funerals via cyberspace -- Facebook Live. While it’s not the same as being there in person to support and encourage those whose loved one passed on, it is a blessing to be in this technology age that affords us the opportunity to watch from the comfort of our homes.

Such was the case on Tuesday, when I, from my home in Frisco, TX and my dear 97-year-old mother-in-law in Tulsa, OK, could go all the way to Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada via Facebook Live for the funeral/memorial service of mom’s 92-year-old sister. We watched it all as my cousins and mom's nieces and nephews sang and gave beautiful remarks about their mom and grandmother. The theme throughout was Alma's love for her Lord, her knowledge of God's Word, always quoting scriptures, singing about Him with her sisters, leading her children to Him, her hospality, the best baker of sweets -- oh, those tarts -- and loving her family with all her heart. What a legacy!

Auntie Alma’s health drastically declined over the last few months. Mom, the older sister at 97, would daily call her to check in and to encourage her until she was hospitalized. Mom told me she’d say to Alma: “I’m calling to make you laugh again!” And, every time, Alma’s spirit was lifted. One such time, Mom said: “Alma, do you remember when playing Hide and Go Seek, we were all found but we couldn’t find you? We looked and looked but you were nowhere to be found. We were so worried we ran in and told Dad. He came out with his lantern, went straight to his Model T in the garage and found you on the floor board, sound asleep.” The last time mom was able to talk to Alma she told mom, “I’m just too tired to talk today.” Then, Mom starting praying that the Lord would take her home. He did.

My cousin let me know about Auntie Alma's passing on and I let Karen, my sis-in-law know. She found the best time to tell mom. When she told her, mom raised her hands to heaven and shouted: “Hallelujah!” I called then to check on her and she was in a rejoicing-state-of-mind! “I didn't shed a tear and have no sorrow. She’s where I want to be. I remember when we talked about our ten siblings already in heaven and only two seats remained at the table for Alma and me. We wondered which one of us would take the next seat. Now, there’s just one seat left and I’ll soon take it and close the door behind me.”

I love mom’s spirit. She is the last of the 12 siblings on this side of heaven. She is still so on purpose with her life. Only God knows how much longer she’ll be here, but I love her attitude. No grief. No mourning. She just keeps saying “See ya’ later” to those that go before her.

From my own firsthand experience, I know about "passing on" of my husband, parents, and all my siblings. Notice I say “Pass on – not pass away”. “Away” sounds like over and done with, but “on” is like going ON home, going ON a vacation, carrying ON. So, like Mom said “See ya’ later” to Alma – that’s the eternal perspective we can have too! Parting is just temporary!

Alma’s bags were packed. (Actually, I think Mom, mentally, has her bags packed, too). One of these days, Mom’s prayers will be answered, and she’ll walk through the door to eternity. Mom was Auntie Alma's midwife. She helped push her through that door. And here’s the best news for us. We'll walk through that door to our home sweet home one day, too. Our loved ones, there before us, will be on the sidelines cheering for us as we cross our Finish Line. In the meantime, let's give our best to God in each day while we live with eternity in our hearts. I intend to finish strong right along with you! I'll see ya' later!

Letting the Whole World Know

We are seizing so many opportunities to share good news via technology. We sure need that good news! Facebook and FB Live, YouTube videos, teleconferencing, Instagram and other forms of communicating hope-filled messaging. Before the internet and social media, many of us Jesus followers were quite reclusive. Our faith stayed at home. Jesus “talk” was easy there. We’d pray around the dinner table or at bedtime for typical family needs. It was faith between us four and no more.

But, HELLO, 2020! Who would have thought, way back when, that we would, one day, be visually interacting with people around the world without leaving the comfort of our homes? We are seizing these opportunities to live our faith outloud online before countless numbers of people. Not to mention, when all doors closed for worship in our churches, that we could worship with our churches online. We are sharing great faith videos and images that encourage and build up each other. We've realized that we ARE the church to our world.

We have become evangelists and have been unleashed to spread the good news from behind a computer or a cell phone. I see you. You know who you are. You are the ones who share scriptures, prayers, quotes and videos bearing faith-filled and hope-filled messages.

When Jesus said in John 14:12, “And greater works than these (the works that He performed) will you do….”, He was foretelling about what we could accomplish. It is time for us to raise our voices even louder. As children of God, we are family! It’s time to keep putting faith-building, fear-destroying words out there. We never know whose life we might impact because of something we posted on social media. There is so much power in our words. When we change our words from complaining, whining, blaming or criticizing to faith-filled, encouraging, loving and caring words, we change our world.

Let’s be billboards that make God famous. We are missionaries because we are on a mission. We have been sent. We were sent the second the first spark of life flickered in our mother’s womb and now to wherever we are today and to whoever crosses our paths – via the street or the internet!

When we read Jesus words in Mark 16:15 to "Go into all the world and preach the good news", little did we realize we could do it right from the comfort of our homes. So, let's preach that good news today! So many need to hear it!

Just Breathe!

I’m a doer. I like to be busy. Just sitting around is not my ideal. My project today is getting my master closet cleared out of unused clothes and organizing for spring and summer. But, this day, I break up my project to breathe. I leave my bunker to socially-reconnect with the great outdoors and my girls. How sweet it is! They take me along for their kayaking adventure on Lake Lewisville. It is a beautiful day to be outdoors. I take a long walk while they have their kayaking fun. Staci put her busy-day, full-of-projects, aside also because Alexia wants us to “breathe” with her. Thank you, Alexia, for the reminder to just breathe.

Then I go to their home where Staci leads her EMnation group for a teleconference on Zoom. It makes my day to see those beautiful faces and hearing Staci's message about our attitudes during these times, as well as hearing the blessings these people are experiencing right in the midst of this C-virus crisis. And, to encourage each other.

On Monday, my ACTS retreat team sisters connected via Zoom also. Our retreat was canceled, but, hopefully, we’ll be back on in the Fall. In the meantime, we’re staying connected though apart. It’s a great way to encourage and support each other. Thank you, Lord, for technology that affords us this kind of opportunity to join together from our separate spaces. If our world is going to be turned upside-down – what a great age for it to happen – when we have so much technology to keep us apprised of what’s going on. We’re even enjoying “going-to-church” from the comfort of our homes.

But, sometimes – even better – when we disconnect ourselves from technology and just BREATHE in God’s goodness. I started this blog with the word “breathe”! Typically, just breathing is taken for granted – amidst our daily challenges. Yes, we're remedied by calculated thinking and purposeful elimination of unnecessary stress. But, it is different with this uncalculated and abrupt change to our “normal”. We’ve never had to face these challenges that we’re facing right now. Homeschooling, business from home, church on-line, disconnected from friends and loved ones, depression from isolation or a loss of income. AND, not being able to go to our loved ones in a nursing home or hospital or traveling by air to be with one who is critically ill.

Maybe you’re one that is facing these challenges today. Maybe you are overwhelmed by this tumultuous storm and nothing anyone says to lift you up makes you feel better. Breathe, sweet friends, breathe. Inhale Jesus and His peace. Exhale the fears and worries and concerns. Erma Bombeck said, “Worry is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but you get nowhere!” There’s always hope and peace found in the midst of our storms because of He Who is our peace-maker, the storms eradicator and the comfort provider.

There’s an old song that goes “Mama said there’d be days like this”, and Jesus agreed with Mama when He said in John 16:33 “In the world, you will have trouble. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” He knew we’d face hard times, storms that dump buckets of troubles on us. But He also knew that’s why He came to this earth in the first place. He came to give us an abundant life, went back to heaven and He is ever-interceding for us to the Father.(Hebrews 7:25) And, even better, He is right here with us to help us survive the winds and waves!

So, breathe, sweet friends, breathe! Go outside for a walk in nature. Listen to the birds chirping. It really does seem that they’re chirping louder. Or, is it I’m listening more? Breathe, dear friends, breathe today and let God be God for you.

I Love My High-Tech Life

See that alarm clock! I remember every night's routine of winding it up to keep it going – especially so that the alarm would go off the next morning. Fast forward to today and my “Alexa” plays a comfortable sound that wakes me up!

A few days ago, I blogged about high discernment being better than high-tech. Don’t get me wrong! I’m not knocking our world of technology. Even when one of my high-tech devices goes on the fritz, doing life the good-old-days way, is a hassle. You know – the microwave, the dishwasher, etc. We are so high tech that we get whatever we need for whatever we are doing at the time -- from driving to all kinds of gadgets in every place -- the kitchen, the car, garage, music, fitness, watches. I'm so grateful to be able to move through my life with less to be concerned about – like when I drive so many miles to Tulsa or down to Austin. The technology in my car -- a GPS sytem and indicators let me know when a tire is too low or it’s time for an oil change.

I can’t imagine how long it would take me to write my daily blogs without my computer and access to the internet. The Internet has forever changed the way we relate to one another. Getting messages out to a large list of people in an instant, at one time, unlike the days of phoning all those people or snail mail. The good old days, were good, but, hallelujah, for these good NEW days when we get so much accomplished so much faster.

My little world of technology makes so much difference to me, but it's truly a miracle for those who can see now because of specialized glasses, for those who can hear because of implants, and those without limbs or even a voice have access to technology that gives them the ability to speak.

What a privilege it is to be alive today and see how many people are benefited because of man’s creation. Our Great Creator creates through His children. Every creative act is a partnership with The Creator! I am so privileged. You are so privileged. How often we take our blessings for granted. I’m impressed to consider the gifts in my life that are not available to others -- the ability to see, read, write, or have access to running water, electricity, the internet, transportation, a safe space to call home. If you are reading this blog -- you are so blessed!

God started all this “technology” business. He is the Creator of heaven and earth. He created life itself. That is who we are: Children of the Creator. This blog today is pretty basic in its message but quite advanced in us recognizing that technology is a gift from Him, our Creator, and He operates through His skilled image-bearers. It is His Genius that inspires innovators with innovations, artists with art, creators with creations AND you and me who should open up our hearts and lives to Him -- and just perhaps, we might come up with the next technology that creates something that will be used to know Him better, love each other more and glorify Him above all! Let's live with expectant, anticipatory waiting -- not listening like we are chilling in a rocking chair, but listening like we are on the edge of our seat … like we are anticipating a God-idea!

Burying Your Head So You're Not Disturbed?

For a mere $99.99 on Amazon, this power nap Ostrich Pillow can be yours. This photo crossed my path so many times that I finally had to check it out. It looks to me like it's a clear signal that someone doesn't want to be disturbed. But the inventor says "Sometimes all you need is a power nap during a stressful day or to counter jet lag, or for just a chance to relax. Just burrow your head and arms into its cozy ‘cocoon’ and you’ll be in dreamland before you know it." He says “Power napping increases productivity by 34%.” I can relate. Sitting at my desk most of the day can sure bring on dreamland to me and a 10-minute power nap can sure power me on for the rest of my day!

You've got to hand it to those who find a need and do something about it. The Ostrich Pillow makes sense but I find it hard to believe that women with their well-coiffed hairdos would stick their heads in there for any amount of time -- not to mention that it sure looks like it would be hot in there.

The Ostrich Pillow is indeed unique and of course it was named after the ostrich because that's what ostriches do -- they bury their heads in the sand. And isn't that what some people do, too? They don't want to deal with situations that represent conflict or they hide from helping their neighbor or they rationalize "ignorance is bliss". A lot of folks "bury their head" in the sand when they don't want to take the time to learn a new way of doing something, even though they'd save lots of time, energy and money in doing so. I’ve carried on conversations with some folks (young and old) who are frustrated with technology so they leave it alone because they are unwilling to change and learn something that could save an immeasurable amount of time for them. Many people would rather ignore a problem than trying to solve it. They'd rather hide within their walls than recognizing the needs of others who are going through disappointment and heartbreak and they could sure use a loving and caring "brother or sister" -- someone who just might be the load lifter for them.

Wouldn't this world be a better and kinder place if, instead of burying our heads in the sand, to stand tall and raise our hearts and our hands and say "Pick me! I'll step up and make a difference" or “I have an ‘open door’ policy. You are always welcome in my office, my home, and my heart! We'll work this out together!”

Bored? Climb a Mimosa Tree!

“I’m so bored!” Famous words from kids during their summer vacation even with all the technology gadgets they own – they still get weary from the same-o, same-o!

Did you complain of boredom when you were a kid? I did. My Mom’s reply to that – “Go outside and play. Make some soup.” WHAT? Oh, I knew what she meant. She wanted me to go outside because that's where we had lots of "play-grounds and play-gyms" that resolved boredom by offering great opportunities for imagination and adventures. My playground and gym was a mimosa tree in our front yard that I climbed and pretended I was in a fortress from all my enemies and when I got hungry, I made a delicious soup to share with my friends.

Those memories came back to me when we were at Beaver’s Bend this spring and mimosa trees were everywhere. I pointed them out to my grands! I still think a mimosa is the prettiest tree in the world. Its leaves are like ferns. Its flowers are pink puffballs. And it blooms in summer when few other trees do and when the puffballs fade, the tree grows hundreds of 6-inch long, bean-like, brown seedpods which hang from every branch.

As I said, not only did we climb my tree and ward off evil pirates from my “tree ship”, but we would take the bean pods from it and break it up into a big pot. We’d add the leaves, seeds, pods, and flowers from it, and add a little dirt for seasoning. Then, we pretended to cook it and enjoy our scrumptious pot of mimosa stew! BTW – I just found out in writing this post for today, that we could have actually boiled up the flowers for a real mimosa healthy drink. Both its flowers and bark were traditionally used as a sedative, specifically for calming and lifting one's spirit. HOLY MOLY! I could use a jug of it right now in dealing with my Animal Kingdom here in Austin!

We also pretended to be school teachers and mothers and sometimes we did some things that required bravery – like riding our bicycles with no hands or jumping off the high diving board. Sometimes our imaginations went too far. I’ll never forget the trouble my friend and I got into when we wanted a swimming pool and dug an 8 ft X 8 ft X 1 ft hole in my backyard. We were caught when we were adding water to “our luxurious mud pit”.

I’ll bet you can remember some wild and crazy adventures when you were a kid. Those adventures sure did break up the boredom. I talked about adventures in my post yesterday and it seems I’m on a soapbox for living life to the fullest, with no room for boredom. In Matthew 18:3, Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you change and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” What exactly does that mean….especially when you’re as “mature” as I am? Of course, God wants us to come before Him as children, because children are innocent, and trust with a pure heart. To go before God as a child is to go with wide-eyed wonder that comes from total faith. Our Heavenly Father – our great Creator was an Adventurer par excellence (just think about all the adventures He directed His kids into – water-walking, water-parting, boat rides on stormy seas, giants tumbling with a mere stone from a shepherd boy’s sling, falling into pits and landing up in a palace). It sure seems like, as His children, it should be just “natural” to be adventure seekers because of the childlike faith we possess.

Here’s the thing -- God didn’t create us for boredom! We are always being “pushed” to be more, do more, experience more, celebrates more, live life larger than ever before. Here’s another GREAT verse. Jesus said, “Whoever believes in Me will do the works I have been doing and they will do even GREATER things than these because I am going to the Father.” John 14:12

So, why sit in the recliner of boredom, complacency, and idleness when there's so much to see, so much greater things to do and so much to experience? This world is the greatest "playground". Why should we be "dead men and women walking", instead of people who are alive, imaginative, creative AND adventurous? I’m already planning my next adventure. How about you?

Technology ROCKS!!!

I get amused when I hear folks talking about the “good old days” when we could leave our doors unlocked, where the worst thing we did in schools was chew gum, where kids played outside using their imaginations, and gas was 23 cents a gallon (or less). But were the good old days -- really that good? Were the good old days that good when tornadoes came without warning because, without technology, no one could see them building ahead of time. And were the good old days that good when it took days to communicate with a loved one because the only communication was "snail mail". Now we can communicate instantaneously by social media and email. In the good old days we had to stop at a pay phone to make a call. We had to carry a camera for photos, and an extra “Palm Pilot” that carried our contacts in it. Now we have cell phones that do it all. I love this photo of “Before and After" photo.

My word for today is TECHNOLOGY: methods, systems, and devices which are the result of scientific knowledge being used for practical purposes.

Yesterday I posted that I had been on a retreat for the weekend. That meant being unplugged from technology. As most know, my personal mission since my husband graduated to heaven 7+ years ago, has been to provide a daily blog and Facebook post (without exception). I do my best to post before 6 am, with the only exceptions being when I’m out of the country or out of cell coverage. I didn’t like those “exceptions”, so I set out for a solution. That’s when I discovered Hootsuite, which is an app that gives me the ability to schedule my Facebook or any other social media platform to post at the specific time I need it to. Now, I use Hootsuite and for my blog, I simply schedule it in my Google App – blogger. So, when a friend, who knew I was on an "unplugged" retreat, asked on my FB post “How do you do this when I know you are on retreat?,” I explained Hootsuite to her. Just maybe you can use that app if the need arises, too!.

Sometimes it’s good to UNPLUG from technology so we can hear more clearly from God, to walk a short distance rather than taking the car, to climb stairs instead of taking the elevator or escalator. Sometimes it’s better to visit someone face-to-face, rather than texting or calling. It's a treat to recall good memories from the past, but being alive in this day and this time, in this generation.....is right when and where God planned for us to be. We are here on purpose and if we embrace the opportunities, the technologies, the possibilities and the experiences of these good new days, they will be the BEST DAYS of our lives.

Thanks be to God for TECHNOLOGY and those incredibly wise and gifted inventors and innovators who used their God-given minds to give us shortcuts and conveniences – especially when we need them the most. And, I'm grateful to get to connect with amazing people like you. Thanks, Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, Henry Ford, Orville and Wilbur Wright, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates and to all the other inventors and innovators that made life so much easier for us. Thanks, God, for being the unparalleled Creator of all of us -- Who can give us ideas, creativity and witty inventions on a daily basis. We just have to tap into His wisdom and creativity!

Jesus said “Whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these...." John 14:12. Jesus took His message by donkey or by foot. Today, TECHNOLOGY has taken that same message around the world and the spread of Christianity is nothing short of supernatural. There are still huge segments of the world’s population that have never even heard the name of Jesus. May we pray continually for TECHNOLOGY and INNOVATION that will open doors for ALL to hear the GOOD NEWS so we can say, "Even so, Lord Jesus, COME!"

Unplugged To Get Plugged In

My cousin and I were going on a “girls night out”, but I couldn’t find my cell phone. I went to pick her up (she lives just a few blocks from me) and brought her back to my house so she could call me to see where my phone was at. (I forgot about the iPhone Find app I could have used from my PC.) Sure enough, I had left it in my bathroom. Being the “mature” ages that we are now, we starting laughing about how important our cell phones are to us, which led to our conversation about the old pay phones that we relied on when we were driving somewhere. There are so many “new and improved, time-saving” ways of doing things today.

My all-time favorite app that has saved me hours upon hours of time and stress, is the GPS system on my phone – in particular, my WAZE app. Going or coming home from Austin has been a challenge when I pass through Temple, TX. It seems they have eternal road construction going on that causes up to an hour of delay because of the traffic. Aw – but my WAZE app guides me to the off-roads that gets me around it – saving a lot of time.
This post, today, was written a couple of days ago. I knew I would be heading out on a retreat where I’ll be completely unplugged from technology for several days so that I get “plugged in” to complete focus on God. But in order to get my daily posts out, I relied on the wonders of technology. I used a great app called “Hootsuite”. It gives us the tools to set up a Facebook post for delivery at a later date and time – thus this post today, as well as the ones that will be posted through to Sunday. On Monday, I’ll be back on “live” again.

How blessed I feel to live in this day of innovation, technology and seemingly endless opportunities to truly be the best we can be at anything we attempt to do. Continuing to be in a learning mode has been my modus operandi and it has served me well. It impresses upon me that this "mature" dog can continue to learn new tricks. I don’t want to live in a state of complacency – sitting in a rocking chair, just flipping channels on TV, and let life slip through my fingers. I want to squeeze everything I can out of this life while I still can. There are adventures to be had, lessons to be learned, trails to blaze and imprints to be left behind.

Over the next few days, technology will be unplugged from my world as I’ll be intentionally plugging into focus on God without the everyday distractions of my doorbell or cell phone ringing, or my incessant need to check my emails, text messages or my Facebook page. I’ll be learning some “God-first” lessons without technology to assist me. I will be “present” with Him to experience Him in the beauty around me. But, believe you me – I’ll be excited to get back on-line, come Sunday. As sweet as getting away from it all can be, it doesn’t compare to knowing no matter what I’m doing in the busy-ness or quiet of my life – God is ALWAYS there. I’ll be coming back to the scripture “Whoever believes in Me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do EVEN GREATER THINGS than these, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12).

I think He must have had technology, television, satellite and social media in mind, to spread His good words and works, when He said that. He is as close as a whispered prayer and He is also so close, I can communicate this minute with my friends around the world. It’s a blessing to “unplug” and a great blessing to “plug in” to all the conveniences and blessings of making this big world come right into our homes and lives. Let’s make the most of what we’re blessed with, to become the best we can be in sharing the light of Christ to our world….doing the GREATER WORKS THAN THESE, that He promised.

Pay ATTENTION!

Goodness gracious! I love my GPS system. They're so much better than those old folded up maps. Those "Global Positioning Systems" are found in vehicles and on smartphones all over the world. And, I’m so grateful to be here at this time to take advantage of this amazing technology. That gal in the GPS knows where to go and she even redirects us if we get off the beaten path.

So, yesterday I was making my trek to Texas to see my Frisco kids. My brag was "I don’t need my GPS to get to my Frisco family – I think my car goes on auto pilot when I go there because I’ve travelled that route many times!!"

Well, that's the "brag" when I'm paying attention to my driving. I was talking on the phone to my sister-in-law (using my car's hands-free) and all carried away in conversation, saw the exit up ahead and took it. I had driven for probably 10 miles before I realized, this road doesn't look familiar and neither did the towns I was going through. Well, at least I'm going West and that's the direction I need to be going. NOT! I stopped at a service station and asked "Can I take this road to Atoka?" And the attendant said, "Yes, just take this road on for 10 miles and then go south on Hwy 75." First off, I asked the wrong question. I should have said "Should I turn around and go back to the turnpike to Dallas?" As it turned out, I went through major road construction on 2-lane roads, through little towns, and I went out of my way over 45-minutes -- BACK to Atoka and not going South to Dallas. I got to Frisco at 8:15 pm instead of 7:30 pm.

Back to that awesome GPS system. And, more importantly, back to focus and being present in the moment and not allowing distractions to keep us from our goals. The most sophisticated directional technology in the world is not much help if we don't use it and won't follow its directions. My goodness, if I had kept going West, I could have ended up in New Mexico! LOL!

And, our most supreme, all-knowing God can't speak to us and give us directions for driving AND living, when we're caught up in "our own little world" either. If we simply PAY ATTENTION to the road, listen to God's voice and follow His instructions... then, there will be no question about getting lost -- He'll ensure we'll get to where we need to go!!

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and HE will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

Greater Things Shall You Do

Day 361 of Photo Inspirations -- Greater Things Shall You Do
I have to laugh out loud as I watch my two youngest grandsons enjoy their high tech Christmas gifts. The one that has grabbed the most attention is their hover board.  For most of the day, they're counting the minutes until it's their turn to use it.

Last night, we went to the grocery store and as we exited the car, Brennan said, "Nana, can I take my hoverboard in?"  I was surprised he brought it with us, and at first I said, "No", but then I thought that it may be a good way to keep them locked into me at the store.  After all I needed to be their responsible grandmother.  They took turns riding it up and down the aisles, following me closely.  Several people stopped us to ask "Where did you get that?" Their reply?  "Santa".  A friend said, "Michael J Fox from Back to the Future!"  Hilarious!  When it was time to check out, we were warned by the cashier, "Better not bring that in with you next time. We've had to ban skateboards, skates, hoverboards and heelies from the store.  The risk is too high!"   I get that, but the boys sure were able to enjoy themselves going down those long stretches of "landing strips" before their fun came to an end.  Leave it to Nana to stretch the limits.  LOL!  

My first photo inspiration today was catching Brennan -- not only on the hover board, but, as easy as walking, he had on his Beats headphones and using his iTouch -- operating 3 high tech items at the same time!  Wonder Boy!  LOL!   First it occurred to me -- "Look at the coordination of that boy. He's just like his Nana........NOT!"  I fell yesterday just going up the stairs while talking on the phone to Mom in Tulsa.  Brennan came running to me.  He and  Mom, both, where shouting, "Are you okay?"  I was.

All this technology -- wonder if that was what Jesus had in mind when He said, "And greater things than what I do, you will do."  John 14:12 -- Goodness gracious -- Jesus walked everywhere, he was so in touch with others that He knew what they were thinking, his eyes were looking to see what He could do or help someone in need.  He was multi-tasking all the time.  Yes, we are in the age of the greatest advancements in technology and it is moving at warp speed.  What a day it is to be alive to experience so much innovation, witness brilliant minds coming up with such creativity (I love "Shark Tank" where week after week people are coming up with innovative ways ways to do things.)

We heard the song, "Mary, Did You Know?" so many times over the Christmas season, and I think about all the Mamas out there who could have been asked similar questions "Mrs. Ford, DID YOU KNOW that your son would invent the car?"  "Mrs Wright, DID YOU KNOW your boys would invent the first airplane?"  "Mrs. Gates, DID YOU KNOW your son, Bill, would be a world leader and innovator in computer technology?"   Mrs. Zuckerberg, DID YOU KNOW your son, Mark, would create Facebook?"

Sincerely, we are the only one who can put limits to what we can achieve.  Before Jesus ascended to heaven, He said "I am telling you the truth: It's good for you that I'm going away. If I don't go away, the Helper (Holy Spirit) won't come to you. But if I go, I will send Him to you." John 16:7.  How awesome is that?  He is in us, and greater things and greater results and greater accomplishments we can achieve because our CREATOR, came to us as  the Baby in the Manger.  Oh, but He grew up and opened the door for our creativity and our freedom of being and doing anything we set our minds to do.  After all, He Who knows everything about everything lives BIG in us!  EMMANUEL -- God with us!

We Rejoiced BIG Time on This Day That the Lord Made

Day 299 of Photo Inspirations -- We Rejoiced BIG Time on This Day That the Lord Made!
Yesterday was packed full of Girl time, Granny time and Nana time.  These photos are from a fun packed day that started with my girls coming in on Friday night (the boys were hanging out in College Station for the Texas A&M game -- Go Aggies!).  Then the first thing Saturday morning, we headed to Mom's (Granny's) to give her a birthday surprise of the girls being in town to celebrate her birthday with her.  After hugs and kisses, then Staci took the opportunity to share Granny's birthday with the world as she interviewed her on "Periscope" (another new technology app where you can do a live feed that is seen worldwide if viewers have that app and are online at the time).  Staci videoed Granny and interviewed her for the viewers. Here is excerpts:

Staci:  As a Pastor's wife for over 50+ years, on this your 93rd birthday, can you give us your top 3 leadership tips?
Granny:  #1 --It's very simple.  Do not be selfish and think about yourself all the time.  It's about helping the woman and man and children who have no one to encourage them and praise them and lift them up.  I love to help people.  #2 -- Say to yourself -- "me, myself and I have to go back here (she pointed backwards) -- there's too many out there that need attention".   I'm going to encourage them.  #3  I say, "Lord, I don't have time for myself like I should because I'm too busy helping others.  So I say "Lord, you're gonna' have to help me, because I'm too busy helping others to take care of me!"

She had people from Turkey, Brazil, India, Russia, Argentina, and all over the U.S. -- over 150 more viewers -- many that gave comments that we saw on-screen.  And many others giving "heart likes".   They all loved her and were so inspired by her zest for life. A 16 year old posted, "I wish people my age could hear your wisdom today." Staci and Granny continued:

Staci:  Someone wants to know what you think about rap music?
Granny:  It's not my favorite.  I love worship.  I love to sing to the Lord.

Staci:  Someone is asking what your favorite memory is.
Granny:  We were 12 kids in the family.  We played together.  We worshipped together.  Our mom and dad read the Bible to us.  We were happy.  We didn't have much, but we didn't need much. It's not about things.
Staci:  Granny, people are being so blessed to see you today.
Granny:  I am having a worldwide revival.

Staci:  Someone is asking you how you feel.
Granny:  (Jumping up to her feet and exclaimed) Great.  Yay!

Staci:  What is the last thing you want to say today?
Granny:  We must keep our eyes on God.  People are too busy today.  The Bible says that God says "Be still and know that I am God.  I want to talk to you.  Slow down so you can hear me."

While the rest of our day was spent having fun girl time -- shopping, eating out, going to the Pumpkin Patch (my special request) -- nothing compared to this little precious, keepsake memory of a sweet saint's birthday that was shared with the world.  We thought about how she and Dad pastored for many years, and today, she carried on "preaching the good news".  While the day for some was about all the ghosts and goblins.......she got to spread THE LIGHT.  No wonder she's been such a LIGHT to so many for so many yea

rs.

Thankful for the Good New Days

Day 183 of Photo Inspirations – Thankful for the Good New Days
The good ole' days had its charm, but I’m so thankful for these good new days.  I know I’m dating myself, but I was there when we used manual typewriters and carbon paper for copies. We put the paper between the paper table and platen.  Then rolled the platen knobs clockwise until the paper was in.  Then we lifted the paper bail and put it down on the top of the paper. Next was moving the carriage over manually to the right until it wouldn't go any further.  (The margins stopped the carriage). Then WHOA LA, we could begin typing our first sentence.  When we heard the 'ding' at the end of the line, we'd return the carriage with the carriage return.  WHEW!  All of that to produce a page of typewritten words.

AND now we have computers and tablets that within a matter of a few seconds or minutes, a page of words is completed and a simple Control P, prints the page out.  Bada bing, bada boom.

Back then our sources for information…in my case, was The World Book Encyclopedia -- that's where our research for school reports and essays came from.  Thumbing through pages after pages to find the information and then manually typing up what I had read.  WHEW!  Hours of research and a long time to type the report.

Now we have the internet that with a simple Google word search, blogs, information, photos, and youtube videos appear that give us everything we need for a thorough report, complete with images.

The internet is so awesome that I can repair a clogged toilet with just a little information I obtained from an online search. (Yes, I did -- last week.)  I found a miracle cure for a yucky wart – apple cider vinegar and duct tape. (I still use that remedy for those crazy little bumps that randomly appear.)  I find the definition to words in seconds.  I find stores and services – their hours, their products and the prices without having to use a thick Yellow Pages Book.  I find images that I can use in my Facebook posts.  I can find scriptures, then copy and paste them into my messages.

For this post today, I’m simply expressing gratitude for yet another blessing.  Technology has brought so much spice to me in this season of life that I sure don’t have time for bingo.  Okay, marking B-8 on a bingo card can bring enjoyment to folks, but there’s nothing to compare with the connection to the world via my computer and the Internet.  The Internet brings the world to us – I don’t want to stop learning EVER and I can continue to learn in this technology age.  Hanging out in cyberspace is my gig.  I've connected with friends and relatives from my childhood.  We talk about the good ole’ days and celebrate these good new days.  I love to Skype or Google Hangout or Facetime with my grandchildren.

Perhaps you have some lonely friends or family members that don't get out much anymore.  Perhaps, the gift given to me in this Information Age is a gift you can give to them.  They may tell you they don’t want to “mess with it” at first, but believe you me – they’ll be thanking you when they find so much  in the cyberspace world of wonder -- not to mention, they'll find lots of things that will remind them of their past as well.  After all, that's what this typewriter and encyclopedias did for me today!

It's ALL About the Journey and Getting to our Destination

Day 164 of Photo Inspirations -- It's All About the Journey AND Getting to our Destination
Whoever said "It's not about the destination -- it's about the journey" wasn't running a 26.2 mile marathon or on a 12-hour road trip, with 6 of us AND stuff crammed into a vehicle.LOL!   Yesterday, my Texas kids and I (all 6 of us) had a 12-hour "journey" (road trip) to Minneapolis for Payton's  NCFCA Speech & Debate Nationals Tournament.  We played card games, Scrabble, sang, used our technology for entertainment AND worked (in Staci's case), snacked, and stopped for yet another one of us needing a pit stop. With all that entertainment, still there were moments of sibling disagreements.  "Mom, please make her stop singing!"  "Mom, he won't move over."  "Mom, I want to watch that DVD!"  "Mom, she won't stop putting her feet on me!"  Hilarious!  For them, it WAS about the destination!

I have to smile as it brought back so many vivid memories of our own family road trips -- the only difference was, we never could use "I'll take away your technology if you all don't settle down"!  Aw.....technology -- sweet time consumer and a means for harmony and peace.  I often wonder "How did we manage raising our kids without it?"  LOL!   In our case, all my kids' daddy had to do was pull the car to a screeching halt on the side of the road....and peace and harmony resumed.  For us then, as now, it was about the destination.

We made it here to Northwestern University, got all settled in our dorm rooms.  Yes, three of us are in one dorm room and the other three are in the other.  These dorm rooms are unlike ones of the past.  These have kitchenettes AND bathrooms in them, furnished with nice beds, desks and chests and lots of closet space.   Payton and Alexia are getting to experience what it will be like to "live on campus" one day, and we are enjoying 'remembering' campus life.  The journey for us was sweet....but the destination of graduating and moving on in life was what it was about for us -- THE DESTINATION!

We made it here -- our destination.    The closer we got, the more excited Payton became.  He practiced and worked hard to be here, and he prayed and believed for it.  I loved reading HIS Instagram post yesterday:

"On my way with the family driving to Minnesota for the NCFCA Speech and Debate Nationals Tournament! (A long 12 hours!!!) I can't thank God enough for all the guidance He has given me! I know I couldn't have made it this far without Him! He sure is a great God! Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you declare the Lord; plans to prosper you and not to harm you plans to give you a hope and future"!

THAT'S it!!!  Yes, God does have awesome plans for our todays.  He wants us to have a blessed journey.   Getting to Minneapolis -- our destination -- is sweet.  But getting to HEAVEN to be with our Lord and our loved ones will be AWESOME!  So we'll continue to enjoy the journey ......with ALWAYS keeping in mind that the ultimate and FINAL DESTINATION will be with Him and being HOME SWEET HOME!

Investing in our Greatest Assets

Day 101 of Photo Inspirations -- Investing in Our Greatest Assets
For the last few days, I've been in Texas and absolutely amazed at the caliber of talent that these hundreds of "home-schooled" kids have amassed in their young lives.  My two Texas grandchildren, Payton Wallace​ and Alexia Wallace​ gave stellar performances in their own right, which certainly made this Nana proud, but watching all of these students stepping up to give debates on international issues (way over my head in understanding), as well as speeches on strategic and impressive topics --  before complete strangers, and with composure, poise and finesse.  It was incredible.

I know I continue to be on my soapbox as I encourage parents to invest in their kids. No other asset we have gives such unsurpassed rewards.  Payton progressed on to semi-finals and I loved it when Alexia wanted to buy him his favorite red velvet cupcake and give him this sweet card to congratulate him.

 Payton was always convinced he wanted to be in debate and speech, but, our Alexia, on the other hand, needed a little more encouragement and nudging from her parents.  Unlike her Mama, she hasn't yearned for the stage, but now, after taking to the stage, we're seeing her blossom so beautifully, and, in fact, now handles it as second nature.  She placed 1st in several of her speech competitions.  It won't be long before she's moving up in the rankings.  In the meantime, she is a girl that loves having fun.  She is a free spirit -- and as seen in these photos, we just  HAD to go shopping a little between the rounds!  LOL!

Maybe I'm "old school" but I still think it's important for parents to guide and reinforce what they see as potential talents and abilities in their kids -- and then to stretch them or gently push them towards opportunities that they know will make them better in life and give them an unlimited future of possibilities.  

When I first got down to Dallas, Staci had the kids give their speeches to me.  If they faltered, she'd make them start over again.  Oh, that brought back so many memories to me.  Staci's Daddy would do that to her. We had a sound system set up in our basement, and he'd make her practice her singing over and over again --until she was in tears.  Now, she looks back and thanks her Daddy for his coaching and pushing her to be the best she could be.  We knew she was God's gift and asset to us and we were responsible for "multiplying" that investment.

What are you doing with your greatest assets? Technology (iPads, iPhones, video games, etc.) is a great thing -- but, perhaps it's time to put technology away for a while so these precious assets are learning how to cook, how to speak or sing or play an instrument, or play a sport, or how to make crafts or take photos, etc. etc.  I promise you.....every hour you dedicate to their future -- will be multiplied in rewards to you as you see what they become!

Unplugged

Day 53 of Photo Inspirations -- UNPLUGGED!!
I just returned home from a 3-day; 3-night ACTS Retreat where I was completely unplugged from technology -- can you even imagine that I could survive without my computer, social media or my phone OR a clock or watch for that long?

Most of you know I'm ALWAYS on my phone, talking about mobile services, texting, checking emails -- it's my business.  You know I'm always on social media -- it's my mission to bring light to the world.   And, probably most importantly, is my watch -- that provides my ability to be on-time for this and that --  for when I get up, when I'm at my next meeting, when I eat, when I go to bed.   But, this weekend -- it was all about ESSENTIALS -- essentials like meeting with other women, meeting with God,  and giving devotion and 100% focus on Him.   And it was exactly what I needed.

There are no adequate words to describe the refreshing I received just from cutting lose of the chains that held me captive......and I didn't even realize it.  My heart is full to overflowing of the awe and wonder and absolute life-transformation that took place in me and the others.  Indeed, the acronym for ACTS: adoration, community, theology and service -- all became so tangibly real to me by beautiful women who welcomed us into a place of all-out abandonment from distractions for full-on pursuing of intimate time with God.

Now that I'm back home -- unpacking and getting reaquainted with business-as- usual, routines, expectations from others, dealing with life and all the stuff that life brings, I still will draw from the peaceful waters of peace, reflection, simplicity of listening to His still small voice even in the noisy chaos of this busy world.  I know I'll find Him there -- because it's not about the noise or the lack of it -- it's about Him and me -- finding a moment here and a moment there to continue whispering sweet words into each other's ears -- recognizing Him in the wind, the snow, the savory smells in the air and in a warm home, in the bustling of little children running around, in the smile and touch of a friend.  I will still find a place to BE STILL and KNOW HE IS GOD.

If These Become Silent, the Stones Will Cry Out

Day 9 of 365 days of Photo Inspirations
My grandson showed me his cell phone wallpaper.  This is the photo he used.  He asked me, "You know where this was taken?"  I had no idea.  He said, "Those are rocks in your backyard."   Quite beautiful in color and tones -- but, actually, those rocks are just the red clay rocks of Oklahoma and they actually lack the color seen in the photo.   Payton had enhanced the photo with the color palette on his phone.  Gotta' love what we can do with technology today.

I looked at this photo a little closer and Luke 19:38-40, came to mind...."The whole crowd was shouting (as Jesus came into town on the back of a donkey),            “BLESSED IS THE KING WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”  Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.” But Jesus answered, “I tell you, IF THESE BECOME SILENT, THE STONES WILL CRY OUT!"

WOW -- now that's pretty radical, but when God warns, He has a reason.  Quite frankly, I don't want to be around to witness that production of rocks and stones crying out in praise.... because we were silent.  We can do all the color enhancing and photoshop those rocks all we want, but only God can make them speak.  I'm all for special effects, but most importantly is THE EFFECT God has on my life -- giving me above and beyond blessings that continue to inspire me to sing out, shout out, praise out, and worship the CREATOR of the rocks AND ME!

When Others Laugh at Your Dreams.....JUST DO!

It's "par for the course" that pessimists laugh and ridicule those who step out and believe in something that's never been done before. Often, those negative thinkers become the driving force for DREAMERS to DO and say, "Just watch me!" Think of where we'd be today were it not for dreamers? Dreaming big is what brought us to this day of technology, living in comfort and ease, enjoying conveniences that make life streamlined, traveling to destinations at record speeds, and finding cures for deadly diseases.

Hmmm! Those thoughts sure do make me optimistic about the future because of all you dreamers out there who will keep dreaming and doing and giving us more and more innovations. We can thank those dreamers for just in the last 50 years, we no longer have to get up from the couch to turn the channel on the TV -- thanks to dreamers for the remote! And, for the microwave, the jet airliner, cordless tools and electronics, satellite communications, mobile phones, the computer, video games, smoke detector, the ATM machine, GPS, etc.

Let's start dreaming big! And, if there are those who laugh at us today -- they'll probably be thanking us one day soon!

You Can't Cross the Ocean if You Don't Leave the Shore

Yesterday, I posted our "dead-in-the-water" ship experience. When we boarded that ship, our thoughts were for making yet another great memory, enjoy some needed rest and adventure. Our minds never gave way to "What if we meet with disaster?" We "trusted" that the Captain and his crew would steer us to the pre-planned ports and journey they advertised, and in several days, at the end of our trip, we'd go back home.

But, what about Christopher Columbus -- when he set sail -- not knowing what the future held for him and his crew? Chris was a dreamer and visionary who could see beyond the status quo. When brilliant minds were teaching that the earth was flat, good ole' Chris stretched his faith by leaving his comfort zone (the shore), and ventured out into the unknown. And, just think about it, he didn't have the leading edge technology that reports obstacles, weather, and other vessels, that mariners have today. And, athough he faced every adversity imaginable, he didn't give up until his dream was reality. Indeed, his faith and determination paid off. And Chris certainly gave us some valuable lessons to learn from:

1) We shouldn't play it safe by living in our comfort zone. There's some pretty exciting adventures out there -- so why live with regret?
2) We should ignore critics and seek God for wisdom to claim new territories.
3) We owe it to ourselves to set sail and discover God's will for our lives.
4) We must defeat our fears to be able to find the "treasures" that God has for us to discover.

Isn't it time for us to leave the shore.....and take on a great new adventure that just might be the discovery of a great new relationship, the dream job or opportunity we've been looking for, or the invention we believe could bring in a "boatload"??