tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26819805244534042212024-03-13T11:47:19.795+00:00The Masked SparrowMy thoughts on the world of mothering, Christianity and anything else that I think is interesting.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.comBlogger210125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-23383089765483788382020-06-06T21:22:00.003+01:002020-06-06T21:22:36.868+01:00A Calm Heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBx4EgXJidQ/XtjQrvkTAlI/AAAAAAAAClY/aIKhXcTOFk0XfCwh5eIivwQQCv7OCk8jQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/A%2Bcalm%2Bheart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBx4EgXJidQ/XtjQrvkTAlI/AAAAAAAAClY/aIKhXcTOFk0XfCwh5eIivwQQCv7OCk8jQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/A%2Bcalm%2Bheart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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February 2020 marked the seventh anniversary of my Open Heart Surgery. In many ways, I am more laid-back about things now than I was before. I realised that I have to be. This heart of mine needs to be looked after, and not just physically. Of course I need to take care of it by exercising (building its strength) and relaxing (reducing its stress), but it needs much more than that. During this time of world-wide pandemic and social unrest in America, I believe that God is teaching me many life lessons. One of them being; look after your heart spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically as well. There are many ways of doing this: a relationship with God, reading good books and articles, I am learning the importance of music, developing meaningful friendships etc. One area where this can be extremely difficult is the area of facebook and social media.<br />
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I am a regular facebook-user but have a love-hate relationship with it. There are days when I rue the day I ever accepted that first friendship invitation and others when I love the community of it. Over the years there are some "friends", pages etc that I have deleted, those that are not good for the heart or soul. Some, with whom I have no other connection other than facebook, were easy to delete but others where there is some kind of relationship were more difficult. I have discovered the unfollow button, which means I can still be "friends" but their posts do not have to appear on what I see. Still some of what I read, I have come to the conclusion, is not good for my heart/soul health. I am getting fed-up with the supposed depth of some of it; the post and run as I like to call it. I get annoyed by what is posted and would love to have great conversations about it. However, I know that having a proper relationship with people is essential to real dialogue, and this is not always possible through the forum of facebook (or other social media platforms). I have been blessed with finding out some great information over the past few weeks about things of great importance (eg, why Black Lives Matters etc) but am still astounded by the triviality of facebook. I am learning that I need to treat facebook as it is: a place where I can connect on one level. I can find out about your thoughts etc but it must not substitute real friendship. <br />
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I know that taking facebook less seriously will not solve everything but will help maintain and build the calmness of my heart (both ethereal and physical), so that I can work on those friendships that I have outside the world of facebook and other social media.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-48317315692867413482020-05-29T15:15:00.000+01:002020-05-29T15:15:52.243+01:00What restraint manual are you using?On Monday, a tragedy occured on the other side of the world. In
actuality it was a travesty. A man was arrested in America, Minneapolis to be precise, and by the end of that day he was dead. This
man was black and he died at the hands of the police officers who
arrested him. His life was taken from him because, ... well actually
there was no reason why. It would appear this man died that day
because he was black. He should not have died on Monday 25th May 2020, but he did due to the deliberate actions and complicit inactions of others. <br />
<br />
The police officers said he resisted arrested, except <a href="https://nypost.com/2020/05/27/video-does-not-appear-to-show-george-floyd-resisting-arrest/" target="_blank">this video</a>
appears to show a very different story. This man was George Floyd; he
was a son, a friend, a brother, a human being created in the image of
God. He will be missed greatly and mourned deeply because his life was snatched from him due to the conscious choices of
other men . The police officer decided to take another man's life,
despite the protests of people around. His colleagues, in my opinion,
are equally guilty, as they did not do anything to stop their work-mate.
<br />
<br />
From the evidence which has been broadcast via the
Internet, it is murder and, in my opinion, should be tried as such. (Please note, this video is very disturbing.
Therefore, I have not linked it here. It can be found by typing George
Floyd into any search engine). On the video you hear the officers tell
George to get into the car. However, that is impossible when you have
more than one person holding you down with excessive force. In no
sector could what was witnessed be called reasonable restraint, nowhere
is it ever taught to hold a person down with your knee on their neck.
Whatever system of restraint you use, this would be deemed excessive.
Proper legal restraint is used for the safety of the person, and others,
in volatile situations in order that things do not escalate into
something worse. That was not happened here. The officer did not even remove his knee when the
paramedics were trying to ascertain if George had a pulse. Thankfully, the police
officers involved have been sacked, but sadly only after protests. They
should now be arrested for the crime which they committed.<br />
<br />
And
sadly, this is not the only time this year that a black man was killed
due to the reckless actions of others. It is both heartbreaking and
digusting to hear about these incidents. And they are just the tip of
the iceberg. <br />
<br />
After another such incident in 2014, someone who knows from first-hand experience
that being black can cause unsolicited aggression/arrest wrote and performed the following poem. He puts the fear that black people feel and the solution into words much better than I can. So I will leave it here, I hope that you will take the five minutes it will take to listen. It is worth it.<br /><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Si0sFYkhZ8E" width="480"></iframe>TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-49591438248260541752020-05-27T12:17:00.001+01:002020-05-27T12:17:29.087+01:00Silence has broken, maybe.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4g1oVw0-qN4/Xs5JIIcahEI/AAAAAAAACkE/6P2pZRBwmFYWVJvGOMrtrrdAt1EWEU-rwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Alansbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4g1oVw0-qN4/Xs5JIIcahEI/AAAAAAAACkE/6P2pZRBwmFYWVJvGOMrtrrdAt1EWEU-rwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Alansbook.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It would appear that I have not had much to write about for the past six years. Well not here anyway. For three of those years I was studying for a degree and had to do a lot of writing. I read an abundance of different types of literature and had to condense my thoughts into something academic, in order to submit my written assignments. I must not have done a bad job as I now have a Bsc. However, I graduated nearly two years ago, and have not written much since. I have decided to attempt blogging again. I am not sure why. Although the other day a whole piece of writing came into my head, so maybe that is the reason. On the other hand, it could have something to do with the fact that I am on medically-advised lockdown. Who really knows?<br />
<br />
Life is very different than it was when I first started blogging. For a start the world is in the middle of a pandemic, and the UK is in lockdown. It is not just globally that things have changed. My family life looks very different too. Nowadays I am a mum to two working daughters who are astoundingly different, but at the same time hugely similar. As they are older teenagers, they probably will not feature much in these posts. <br />
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As a household we still have pets, but the rabbit is a different one and the guinea pigs have come and gone. However, a major change in this household is the introduction of a dog. After years of mind-tricks and gentle persuasion, my youngest daughter now has the puppy she longed for most of her life. I am still holding out against the chickens and mini-animals which she would introduce to the property in a heart beat if I let her.<br />
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Over five years ago, after a very long time hunting, we bought a house. I have enjoyed stepping on the mortgage ladder. My husband, not so much. In addition, a further step of adulting was having to buy a new car. For clarification, we have owned cars for nearly two decades, but always had a friend in the business help us buy them. Nearly two years ago, our car needed changing and we had to search and buy a new one by ourselves. Actually my husband did all the work, all I did was transfer money into the correct accounts. <br />
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So, I think I will give this blogging lark a try again. It may or may not work, as at sometime I will have to come off this medical lockdown and go back to work. The posts will be written from the worldview of being a Christian and someone who feels like they are sidewards in a parallel world. Those two things may be connected, but not necessarily. And even if it all comes to a grinding halt, I have enjoyed writing this post. So, lets crank up the motor and see what happens.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-71808933941590508752014-04-08T16:09:00.001+01:002014-04-08T16:09:52.894+01:00Race for LifeI ran this race in 2011. My running was stopped whilst I waited for Surgery and then as I recovered from it. Unfortunately, I have not run much this year as I have just fallen out of the habit of training. Today I have entered into this race which I will walk/jog/run on the 28th May of this year. I have started training, by that I mean I am going for long walks. I will do this for a few weeks and then start gently jogging. I am not sure whether I will run much of this 5k but it is a positive thing for me to take part. I am taking part with my daughters and one of their friends. If you want to sponsor us please click on the button to the left of this post. Thanks.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-67993426317079439202014-02-24T21:09:00.000+00:002014-02-24T21:09:17.688+00:00What is my sacred scared?I came across <a href="http://momastery.com/blog/2014/02/18/sacred-scared/" target="_blank">this blogging</a> series this week. It was good to read the stories of ladies who are doing things despite or maybe because of their imperfections. It is a lesson that I am learning a lot recently. I went to a Conference and had a great talk with someone whilst I was there. During the course of my conversation I came to realise that a lot of my fears are based on my dread of being lonely or alone. I am a people person; I love being with people and that energizes me. However, I have spent a lot of my life struggling with thoughts of not being good enough to be accepted by people which inevitably has led to feelings of loneliness. And then it has become a vicious circle. One which I have fought for years to get out of, but that has made it worse and I became more entangled.<br />
<br />
How on earth did this happen? I was brought up in a busy family of four children, been part of a couple since the age of 17 and have been a mum for over 10 years. But loneliness and the fear of people not liking me has hounded me for years. It has crippled me from doing things in case I fail and cause people to laugh.<br />
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I thank God, for I believe those feelings are going, if not quite gone. I can trace them to a time when I moved schools, was verbally bullied and made to feel very stupid. I can also realise that I was never alone, not really anyway. As a Christian, Jesus was always with me. He guarded, kept and guided throughout the bleak times then and since. It was a real release to sit in the Conference with lots of people around me and for that time not need others to affirm my worthiness. I know that in Christ I am worthy and He has many a work for me to do.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-88359777740439261292014-02-14T20:47:00.000+00:002014-02-14T20:47:36.016+00:00 Happy HeartaversaryTo borrow a phrase left on my facebook status. A year ago last week I had Open Heart Surgery to replace my leaky aortic valve. I am doing well; having been discharged from the Surgical team and Cardiologist back in June and July. I pop to the GP Surgery on a regular basis to get my Warfarin levels checked. Once a year I will need a blood test to check the state of my kidneys due to the blood pressure tablets I am on. Apart from that I no longer need any medical intervention. Yippee. (Although, I have found out I am more expensive to insure. :) )<br />
<br />
When the weather is better I am going to get training again as I am hoping to run a 5k in May. If I cannot run it I will certainly walk/jog it. I have not exercised much since the Autumn as I have been searching for a house to buy with my family. We think we have found the right one so watch this space.<br />
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I have learnt an awful lot since having surgery. On the day of the surgery I was amazed to wake up and find that I have slept the previous night. It was wonderful to know that God gave the grace I needed for that day; a lesson that I am trying to put into practice. I can only take one day at a time; this is coming useful in the house buying game. <br />
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I am also learning to try and step back from things which I cannot control. I need to do the things my skills suit and leave others to do what they are gifted at. Ultimately, God is in control of all.<br />
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I went to a Stress Busters Course; learnt some great things on it and have added them to some of the things I was already doing. Each day my intention is to write down 3 positives things that happened to me. I find it really helps put all of life into perspective. I am planning on writing more things in my quotes book that I kept up in the lead up to Surgery, it has been neglected over the past 6 months or maybe more. The trouble is I sing a hymn or come across something that is positive or encouraging and then forget to make a note of it.<br />
<br />
My Surgery has definitely changed me for the better and I do thank God for His hand upon me all through that time. <br />
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<br />TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-11235629885291668682013-09-13T15:14:00.004+01:002013-09-13T15:14:58.552+01:00Modern day miracles.A funny example of the strange prayers we pray as Christians. We were on a long journey the other day and my husband needed a comfort break. He prayed for a lay-by to become available. We drove past lots of them but they were hidden until we went past. On the particular road we are on is a famous shopping place, which has an abundance of facilities. My husband drove past. And then prayed again for a lay-by. I was not sympathetic as I felt God had already given him a good answer to that rather flippant prayer. <br />
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This is just a silly example of how Christians sometimes pray. I believe that we must pray (although my prayer life is ropey to say the least) BUT sometimes, we pray and the answer is already staring us in the face. Occasionally, it seems like we use prayer as a magic talisman.<br />
<br />
When people are ill I pray for healing and I believe in miracles. I really do. However, I have not seen any like the ones Jesus performed in the Bible. All the miracles I have seen involved modern medicine. I really believe that God uses it an awful lot to make people better. I often hear Christians pray, "Lord, bring a miracle. Heal this person." or "We believe that God can heal this person." Yes, and so do I so please visit the Doctor, take the medication and go for the tests that are called for. (I know of Christians who have talked about giving up medicines because they feel like they are lacking trust in God.) By doing this you are not being a faithless Christian or distrusting the divine healing that can come. You are using the amazing brain that God gave you. He may heal you dramatically but then again the answer to your prayers may be more long term.<br />
<br />
I thank God for the miracle of modern medicine because many of my family would not be here without it. I thank God for the answers to prayers which look like Doctors, Nurses, Scientists and other workers in the Medical Field. I will continue to pray for miracles but I will also use the ones that God has already provided; the ones that reside in the GP surgeries or hospital etc etc. TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-81583104744022442712013-09-08T12:16:00.000+01:002013-09-08T12:16:03.914+01:00FYI - Another topic to mess with my head?This week <a href="http://givenbreath.com/2013/09/03/fyi-if-youre-a-teenage-girl/#comments" target="_blank">a blog post</a> went viral. I read it on a friend's facebook page. Some commentators found the original photos (now replaced) unhelpful to the message of the post. I found it uncomfortable that the girls did not get a second chance if they posted photos that were deemed unsuitable for the boys by their mum. They were deleted from her sons' facebook accounts. Is that the message I am giving my daughters? You make a mistake and that is it? <br />
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My children do not as yet have a Facebook, Twitter or any other social networking account; they are too young. I believe wholeheartedly in modest dressing. However, I am someone who has never worn a bikini and am completely uncomfortable with how I look. I have a BMI within the normal limits for my height but still do not like my body. I have curly hair and have worn glasses since I was 13. Not your classical beauty. :) I DO NOT want my girls growing up being scornful of themselves as a person or their bodies. I really hope that they live Godly lives and respect themselves holistically. My question is: How on earth do I teach them to not flaunt themselves in any way (because you can wear the most modest clothes and still flaunt yourself) AND to be confident in whom God has created them. With all due respects if they carry on the way they are going they will turn into very attractive young women.<br />
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(Aside: I have no idea why I am so caught up about myself. In all honesty I know that I am not in bad shape for my age but I dislike wearing things that are too tight, too low, too short etc etc; and because of this I can have a tendency to overdo things. In the past few years I have made myself wear clothes that aren't huge and baggy as this always looked ridiculous. I discovered that dressing oddly can also make you stand out.) <br />
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I believe that it is my job as a parent to monitor my children. Parents have always done that, but nowadays the job is harder because of the Internet. Girls posting inappropriate photos of themselves is very easy because of the access our young people have to computers. I long to teach my girls to have respect for themselves without leaving them with hang-ups that will take a life time to sort out. I also long to hide them from the world so that they are not harmed, but real-life isn't like that. They will make mistakes but surely it is my role as a parent to show love and discipline in the right balance. One without the other will only lead to hurt and harm. <br />
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This post came at a good time as it gives me time to work out how to deal with this issue with my girls. I want them to be Christians, to be confident in the skills and gifts that they have, to know that they are beautiful on the outside, to develop a beauty from within, to love and learn about God and others, to be kind and gentle and a whole myriad of other things. I do not want them to see themselves as being whole only if they have a boyfriend. To my girls go out and discover; there is a wonderful world out there.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-47854946455997713582013-08-29T13:14:00.000+01:002013-08-29T13:14:05.251+01:00Just wonderful.I have many half-written blog posts which need deleting or editing so they are coherent enough to post. Until I have done that, let me share this wonderful video I came across a few times on facebook and other blogs. It does not need any explanation.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/a2K-ibC9GQs" width="420"></iframe><br />TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-33776046670008088342013-08-19T18:16:00.000+01:002013-08-19T18:16:53.980+01:00Bucket list revisited.My bucket list from 2008. It is long and I have added comments.<br />
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<br />
Teach myself to Quilt. <span style="font-style: italic;">I have taken up sewing again instead. I have sewn a few garments, some bags and have lots of projects in mind that I intend to get to. I am finding I see a pattern I like and try to adapt my patterns to fit the dress rather than buying new patterns all the time.</span><br />
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Visit a Amish Community to see their Quilting.<br />
<br />
Get over my fear of flying. <span style="font-style: italic;">I still need to do this.</span><br />
<br />
Fly in a helicopter with my husband around our county. <span style="font-style: italic;">Did I really write this?</span><br />
<br />
Visit Canada, American, Italy.<br />
<br />
Do some mission work in Eastern Europe.<br />
<br />
Study for and pass a degree.<br />
<br />
Learn to surf. <span style="font-style: italic;">I did a summer of
body-boarding and am in the process of finding out if I am allowed in
the sea again. Paddling is my limit at the moment. However, I can still enjoy the beach environment.</span><br />
<br />
Learn to drive. <span style="font-style: italic;">Yeah, I passed my test. Working on the driving confidence after my heart surgery.</span><br />
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Own a VW Beetle Car. <i>If this ever happens, I reckon it will be after the children have flown the nest.</i><br />
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I would love to go skiing again. The last time I tried I wasn't very good at it but it was such great fun. <i>I would be going on my own but this may not be the best idea with a 'fixed' sternum.</i><br />
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Get to a point in my life where I am happy being me. And not care what others think. <span style="font-style: italic;">Heart surgery puts your life in perspective.</span><br />
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Ride a Harley Davidson.<br />
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Climb Ben Nevis. <span style="font-style: italic;">When I get my old ticker back to full strength ....</span><br />
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Be able to play the piano proficiently. <span style="font-style: italic;">I play the piano on a regular basis now.</span><br />
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Teach my girls the basics of reading music.<br />
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Train my girls in the way of the Lord. <br />
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Watch my girls become normal functioning adults who contribute to the world.<br />
<br />
Meet up with on-line friends.<br />
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See my church become a beacon in our town.<br />
<br />
Read some CS Lewis.<br />
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Write a poem or two.<br />
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To become a godly woman.<br />
<br />
Spend some time in a really expensive hotel. <span style="font-style: italic;">Stayed in a lovely place for our 20th wedding anniversary.</span><br />
<br />
Develop a really fun relationship with my siblings. <i>Still working on this. I am coming to the conclusion that I have different levels of relationship with each sibling.</i><br />
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Learn to pray in a Christ-like way. <span style="font-style: italic;">Work in progress.</span><br />
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I would love to go on a top-quality Cookery Course with my girls, in fact my husband could come along as well if he liked.<br />
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If I had my way (and the money!) I would make a spa/pamper day an annual
feature of my life. And when my girls are old enough bring them along
as well. <span style="font-style: italic;">I am not allowed to do the Sauna part but the other stuff is fine.</span>TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-13364650667569352132013-08-09T14:43:00.002+01:002013-08-09T14:43:34.686+01:00Water, Water everywhere, ....I have lived in this area for 5 years. Sad to say I haven't made the most of the environment around me. Recently, I have had cause to visit the sea a number of times. It is beautiful. I paddled. I got excited because I saw someone with the same scars as me in the water. I went up to a complete stranger and asked about her experience and whether she had been given the all-clear to go in the sea. I asked the Nurse at my practice, who has some experience in Cardio Nursing, her advice in my case. She seems to think that because it was my valve replaced then going in the sea is off limits. I am allowed to paddle. I am going to ask my Cardio Nurse but it seems my body-boarding days are over. I now regret the times I did not go in the sea but I can still go to the beach. And I must make the most of that. I really experience the power of God when I am watching the sea. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-qOBGSpGk0/UgTx6JZwNVI/AAAAAAAAAVs/f1jr1aePfps/s1600/Hayle+beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-qOBGSpGk0/UgTx6JZwNVI/AAAAAAAAAVs/f1jr1aePfps/s320/Hayle+beach.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I found another place where water is very important. Well, sweat actually. I have to do a lot of exercise to get my heart back to the condition it was in before the diagnosis of a dodgy heart valve. It was recommended to me that I bought a heart monitor so I can exercise in my zone! And I have been trying for a few months now. I had one exercise session where I got a good reading; the rest of them I have had heart beats per minute all over the place. I know something was not right when my bpm was 101 and then immediately 164. (My zone is 110-122 taking into account my age and medication.) I did a few searches on the web and found out what was going wrong. I checked with my Cardio Nurse and she confirmed my findings. The sensors on the chest strap need water (sweat) to work probably. I jiggled with the chest strap and make sure that they are moistened at the start of the exercise session. I am now getting much better readings and the crazy bpm jumps have stopped. So for this lady the old maxim: "Ladies don't sweat, they glow." is not going to work. I have even managed a few minutes jogging without being freaked out by my heart monitor. Roll on 5k.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-47493547360920312202013-06-27T16:16:00.001+01:002013-06-27T16:16:11.090+01:00I have been sewing again for over a month now. So far I have made:<br />
<ul>
<li>A dress for daughter number 2. (Made from old material I have bought years ago.)</li>
<li>A dress for daughter number 1. (Made from material bought very cheap from a local shop.)</li>
<li>A dress for me. (Made from material bought in a charity shop.)</li>
<li>A wrap-around skirt for me. (Made from material I was given a long time ago.) I used the techniques found on <a href="http://www.tillyandthebuttons.com/p/miette-sewing-pattern.html" target="_blank">this </a>blog but used a dress pattern that I have. Thanks to <a href="http://www.tillyandthebuttons.com/" target="_blank">Tilly and the buttons</a> for the very clear instructions, it really helped. If you want help learning to sew, then this is a great place to go.</li>
<li>A wrap-around dress. (I got the material from a market stall in Plymouth. And it isn't finished yet.)</li>
<li>A reversible bag. </li>
</ul>
I bought a stack of cloth from an online web shop and have found other places that sell cheap fabric. I just need to work out how I can get to them. The material I got has been earmarked for lots of different projects; and whilst it was good I may not buy a 'Lucky Dip' selection again. <br />
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I have learnt lots of lessons since starting to sew. Here are some of them:<br />
<ul>
<li>Read the instructions until you understand what it is saying before going anywhere near the sewing machine.</li>
<li>Measure twice, cut once. To be fair, I learnt that one years ago but it is a good one to remember.</li>
<li>I need to replace the light bulb on my machine, it only went over 15 years ago!</li>
<li>Pressing the seams is a great thing to do and makes the clothes a lot easier to work with.</li>
<li>There are a load of fantastic sewing blogs out there, they are a great read. They make beautiful clothes. </li>
<li>I have realised that I like clothes from the 1940s era.</li>
<li>Sewing goes way beyond clothes as I have found a bag and hat pattern that I will be trying soon.</li>
<li>Once you start it is difficult to stop thinking of different items that you would like to sew.</li>
<li>Youtube is like the village teacher as there are many different videos out there with instructions on how to make lots of great garments or how to get a certain technique correct. </li>
<li>Sewing is a creative outlet for me. I enjoy watching the fabric turn into something useful and good to look at.</li>
<li>It does one's soul good to make something you can be proud of.</li>
</ul>
So finally, my old sewing machine is getting a good workout and heres to many more projects.<br />
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Let me leave with photos of the latest item:<br />
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<br />TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-53302878086530813782013-06-19T20:59:00.000+01:002013-06-19T20:59:00.648+01:00Stereotypical Pastor's WifeI am a Pastor's wife (or should I say a wife whose husband happens to be a Pastor) and have been for a long time. All my married life my husband has been in Bible College or Church work. For the first part of my marriage I tried to fit the stereotype; working alongside my husband in his ministry, all my activities being church-based, sorting out the food for many different church events, arranging Ladies events etc etc. I enjoyed a lot of what I did but something did not always seem to fit. I found that I went from being my parent's daughter to my husband's wife; one church wouldn't even use my name when we went to visit - we were always introduced as 'Insert my husband's name and his wife.' I lost my identity. And in retrospect my husband and I contributed to that in a whole myriad of different ways. I did not find a job because we were always going to have a baby which took a long time coming. And I carried on and my identity slipped further away. I had only ever wanted to be a wife and mother so had no other life goals. Over the years my whole being was bound up in my husband's job of Pastor, so much so that many years ago when we went on holiday I was asked not to say what his job was and I was unable to tell anyone what I did. Nothing I did was outside of his role as Pastor's wife. It somehow got that bad. <br />
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Thankfully, after that things improved slightly as I went back to College to study Child Care. As part of that Course, I did a few hours placement in a local playgroup and school. I enjoyed that and the small feeling of being me.<br />
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We moved churches and I was unable to do the Pastor's wife things as the church had a female worker who did them. So I was once again in a position where my identity was not defined. I drifted through days with not a lot to do; housework and cooking did not fill up all of my time. So I got a job and for someone who was going to be a stay-at-home mum until my children were 16 that was a massive departure from the life I thought I would lead. For various reasons the job did not work out, but I had got the taste of doing things outside of the role of Pastor's wife and I had enjoyed that part of it. I was off work for about 6 months before finding the job I am in now. Well, not exactly the same job but the same Employer. I love my job and it is a good place to work. <br />
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Over the nearly 5 years we have lived here I have slowly and painfully found my identity. I am a Child of God made in His image, a wife to my husband no matter what his job is, a mother to my children, a friend, a daughter/sister amongst a few hats that I wear. I am no longer trying to fit myself into the role of Pastor's wife although I love my PW friends online and in RL. I do not feel the need (most of the time anyway) to try and measure my myself against other Pastors' wives. God has used a great many life lessons to teach me that He has created me to be me and for this season of my life it is to work outside of the home, as well as create a place inside it. I will not have the time to do all the things at church I used to do but I am using computer skills I have on a regular basis. And there is no need to feel guilty if that is all I decide to do. <br />
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I wish I could say that I would live my life the same way again, but alas there are many things I would do differently. However, I am grateful for what I have learnt. I see my husband in a different light now we are two individuals with lots to contribute to our marriage and it is much healthier. We are still a duo just not in the way we imagined in our naivety back in the day. <br />
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<br />
A side note: As part of my recovery people had to
look after me for a long time. I could not cook, clean or even wash my hair to start with. (Still cannot vacuum but I am not complaining.) I had no control at all, I had to ask for everything. The need to always be in control was soon
taken away, thank the Lord. And believe it or not this helped me to be more comfortable in finding my identify. I learnt to be proud of some of my achievements as well.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-90724129354260795822013-06-12T08:44:00.003+01:002013-06-12T08:44:50.145+01:00The question is .....?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Does anyone else ask themselves random questions? Here is a selection of the ones that float through my head.<br />
<ol>
<li>Why can my husband hear supersonic sounds through walls but cannot hear me when I ask a question?</li>
<li>What age should females stop wearing mini-skirts?</li>
<li>Or does it matter if we show are wrinkly knees? (I hope not because my most recent sewing project is shorter than I planned due to a lack of fabric!)</li>
<li>If my phone is in my pocket, why does the alarm to alert me to the fact that I need to take my Warfarin still make me jump after all this time of taking the drug?</li>
<li>Why do you not have time to read?</li>
<li>Why does my laugh sound like it would be at home in a fish market?</li>
<li>Why do slugs like beer?</li>
<li>How can my youngest daughter sing for a hour non-stop?</li>
<li>What have spiders done to gain their bad name?</li>
<li>How can Dr Who regenerate again when he has used up his regeneration count?</li>
<li>Did Rosencrantz and Guildernstern know they were dead?</li>
<li>Did Sam Beckett ever make it home?</li>
<li>How did someone decide that Salty Caramel would be a good flavour to try? </li>
<li>Why does English English use more letters than American English?</li>
<li>How come I can never find the right word when I need it?</li>
<li>Why are jokes about flatulence always funny no matter how old you are? (They aren't, is that just me then?)</li>
<li>Why does everyone have an artistic talent of some description?</li>
<li>What <i>did</i> I come into the room for?</li>
<li>Do I always get to embarrass my children?</li>
<li>Why did I write this blog post?</li>
</ol>
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And now a homage to a little boy who asked lots of questions:<br />
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TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-3186840968014811642013-06-09T15:43:00.000+01:002013-06-09T15:59:58.658+01:00What's in a name?I love names. I love the way they sound; how different ones blend together perfectly. I had names all planned out for my children, but it did not work out that way. I am just grateful our children were able to have one name from us, and also that their given names are wonderful. If I had had a boy he would have been called 'Benjamin Theodore', it sounds so grand to me and goes well with my surname..<br />
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Last year, a very good friend of mine sent me a book about the names of God. I read about one of His names each week and have been greatly encouraged by it. It mostly covers Old Testament names. The author has written another book with the names of Jesus. I have enjoyed thinking about the names of God and therefore different aspects of His personality. I have made a 'Wordle' here of those names in their Hebrew and English forms. I would like to say I have remembered them all but I just copied them from the book!<br />
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<a href="http://www.wordle.net/show/wrdl/6811768/Names_of_God" title="Wordle: Names of God"><img alt="Wordle: Names of God" height="150" src="http://www.wordle.net/thumb/wrdl/6811768/Names_of_God" style="border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 4px;" width="200" /></a><br />
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TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-45887044028727794212013-06-03T17:06:00.000+01:002013-06-03T17:06:04.208+01:00So Long, Farewell.No, not to the world of blogging, but to my Surgeon. Today is 16 weeks since my Surgery and, I went for my 6 week check-up. I am glad their surgery was better than their administration! :) In fact, I did not even get to see the Surgeon as I was seen by one of his Registrars. As I only have met my Surgeon twice (technically 3 times but one of those I was somewhat anaesthetised. :) ), I did not mind one bit. It was nice to see the Registrar's familiar smile. He asked a lot of questions, checked the state of the scar, listened to my lungs and the valve. I was then sent for an ECG, after which I was discharged. <br />
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So, all being well that will be the last I see of that Surgical team. I still have an appointment with my Cardiologist next week but am hoping the same thing will happen; a quick turn-about appointment with no further follow-up necessary. <br />
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I like that sort of goodbye. <br />
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I was not so keen on the one the other day though. Last week we went on holiday to a quaint little cottage on the edge of Dartmoor. Dartmoor is a wonderful place to visit. I love being back home but really miss the rugged countryside that we drove past every day. I miss the sheep and ponies that decided a road was definitely a good place to sit down and rest. We had a lot of sunshine on our holiday; Dartmoor is exquisite in the sun. The drama of the place is seen during bad weather. I love Dartmoor and it is the only place that I would happily return for a rest. <br />
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Auf weidersehen, Dartmoor National Park. Until the next time.<br />
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<br />TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-21849460881171449582013-05-23T09:41:00.002+01:002013-05-23T09:41:22.345+01:00Ancient and Modern Combined.I am reading a few devotional books at the moment. One is a compilation of different Bible verses set in themes for the day. The other is a daily hymn with a short biographical section about the author or composer. It is a great book, although so far no good hymns have been written since about 1920!<br />
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Last Saturday, our church did a sponsored walk. I felt that the 7 miles around the Lake was too much at the moment. However, not to let a small thing like heart surgery get in the way I decided to walk half of it. My husband found a place we could park half-way around the route, and we met the rest of the walkers near the beach. Whilst waiting for them to arrive, I read my daily hymn (it is a kindle book on my phone). I sat on a rock looking at some beautiful trees, a wonderfully built old house on the hill in the distance, a fresh water lake to my right and the sea to my left. The sound of water gently lapping the edge of the sand bar and birds singing were all around me. The scene was absolutely idyllic. This was the hymn I read:<br />
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<i>"This is my Father's world, and to my listening ears</i><br />
<i>All nature sings and round me rings the music of the spheres. </i><br />
<i>This is my Father's world: I rest me in the thought </i><br />
<i>Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas; </i><br />
<i>His hand the wonders wrought.</i><br />
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<i>This is my Father's world, the birds their carols raise,</i><br />
<i>The morning light, the lily white, declare their Maker's praise.</i><br />
<i>This is my Father's world: He shines in all that's fair;</i><br />
<i>In the rustling grass I hear Him pass;<br />He speaks to me everywhere.</i><br />
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<i>This is my Father's world, O let me ne'er forget</i><br />
<i>That though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.</i><br />
<i>This is my Father's world: the battle is not done:</i><br />
<i>Jesus who died shall be satisfied,</i><br />
<i>And earth and Heav'n be one."</i><br />
<br />
<i>By Maltbie Davenport Babcock </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">How wonderful to have an opportunity to look at the wonderful things around me. On the walk I noticed amazing blossom, deep purply bluebells, cows bumbling in their field munching their breakfast of grass, a cheeky robin, bright yellow gorse and many other spectacular examples of Creation. </span>I enjoyed that early morning walk around the Lake and was glad to be able to take part.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking at the house on the hill from my rock. Imagination is required for the lake and sea. This photo does no justice to the beauty or ambiance of the scene.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<br />TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-59640527956608400132013-05-16T12:57:00.000+01:002013-05-16T12:57:03.001+01:00The Great British Sewing Bee - My styleA long time ago in a land far away, I had to choose what exams I wanted to take at 16. I have vague memories of a blue/grey piece of paper with columns on it. All the students were to select a subject from a variety of different areas, eg, a Humanity (History), a Language (German), a Science (Biology) etc. We were also allowed topick an Art; as I have blogged before that is a no-go area for me. So I decided to have a go at Needlework. I have no idea what led me to that subject as I do not remember hours as a child with needle and thread, but then I do not remember much from my childhood but that is another post altogether. <br />
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Over the 2 years studying Needlework I am sure that I learnt many techniques and how to sew with different fabrics. Eventually I got a CSE in Needlework, after making a passable Pinafore Dress with a long-sleeved T-shirt to match and a cuddly dog.<br />
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A few years after gaining that exam I made a wedding dress and 2 bridesmaids' dresses for my wedding. <br />
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I made the flowers for the sleeves, the large bow at the back and all the covered buttons and loops whilst commuting to work and during my lunch times. Not a bad effort, even if I do say so myself. It is nearly 20 years since that picture was taken and I have not done a great deal of sewing since. I have made another wedding dress and a few more bridemaids' dresses, as well as the obligatory outfit for the school dress up days.<br />
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I have had a lot of time on my hands recently, and before my surgery I planned to do a lot of reading and teaching myself a new craft. To be perfectly honest, I did not think the latter would happen as I know my personality and how I can get side-tracked. However, somebody alerted me to the 'Great British Sewing Bee' and I was inspired to dust off the sewing machine. Over the years, I have found many excuses why I have not done any proper dress-making; laziness, 'I am far too busy' and the cost of materials (which will still be a sticking point so I am on the look-out for cheap fabrics!) I have a very large box full of materials and found some which I have managed to turn into a dress for my youngest daughter. I found a pattern which I adapted and fitted to her size. I am pleased with the way it has turned out (although being me I can list all the mistakes I can see but I am fighting that tendency. :))<br />
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My next project is a Maxi Dress for my other daughter. I am researching patterns and will need to make one up myself.<br />
<br />TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-75496409550263433452013-05-10T10:11:00.002+01:002013-05-10T10:11:48.129+01:00Parenting is not for wimps.Although, it might turn you into one or a blubbering wreck. :) <br />
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We have had an issue bubbling around in our house for a very long time. It has effected our family in a massive way. My daughter had got into the habit of screaming. All the time. It has been her 'go-to' response to everything. As her mum I thought there was nothing I could do, it was the way she was made. I was in a lot of despair about the whole thing as it was becoming the background soundtrack of our family. I prayed. I prayed with my husband. A very close friend prayed. Nothing seemed to help. I got to the point where reading facebook was painful; my family was nothing like all the shiny, happy ones I read about on my friends' pages.<br />
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Last week we got the answer to our prayers. I was expecting a very different answer, not one that required humiliation on my part. One day last week very early before school, something triggered my daughter to go into one of her screaming sessions. I responded in my usual way. And then there was a knock on the door. Our neighbour came to tell us she couldn't stand it any more. She had put up with it for nearly 5 years. It had to stop. (And lots of other things that don't need repeating here.) It was not a pleasant experience to be told your daughter was awful. It was not nice to find out your neighbour thought you allowed your daughter to rule the roost. I did not want to be told that my parenting skills were lacking in that area. It is something I never want to have to go through again.<br />
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BUT it was the answer to my prayers. It was the wake-up call I needed to put my parenting onto another track. It was the jolt I needed to apologise for mistakes made and to promise to do things in a different way. I would not have chosen that answer; my answer looked more like this: My daughter came to the understanding that her behaviour had consequences through her own maturity. I am sure that the road ahead will be rocky but so far, it has been easier. The structures in place leave more time for building positive relationships in our home, and I have been reminded that underneath all that screaming a beautiful girl has been hidden all along. <br />
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I thank God for this happening and am grateful to my neighbour for having the courage to come around and let us know her thoughts on this. I somehow feel liberated now that the screaming has (all but) stopped, my head and heart are clearer and I am able to work other things through better. TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-46544749867206193262013-05-03T10:53:00.000+01:002013-05-03T10:53:14.995+01:00Old Boys Network??Yesterday, I read the name of an American Pastor in 3 different blogs (and I am sure it appeared in lots of others). He just happens to have a book coming out. I had never heard of this chap before. I read the first blog post and thought, "Looks interesting, I might look into this book and his blog." And when I saw his name in the second post I thought, "Wow, maybe I really ought to take a look. Perhaps this is a sign." However, when I read his name on a 3rd post I realised that this was a way to promote said book. I felt a modicum of disappointment, although I couldn't tell you why. Maybe, it was because it did not feel like coincidence that his name appeared in 3 blogs on the same day.<br />
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More and more in the Christian blogsphere, I am noticing these kinds of connections. I read some fantastic bloggers/writers, and never see them quoted or publicised elsewhere (and if it was not for the fact I do not have their permission I would put their blog titles here.) They don't Guest Post "XYZ" ever. <br />
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There is a phrase: "It is not what you know but who you know that counts." And that is true in many walks of life, including Church Circles. I hope this is not what is happening here because sometimes there seems to be that vibe to it. Occasionally, it feels like the 'Old Boy's Network' that the same bloggers are so desperately trying to escape from. <br />
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Maybe, this is my cynicism showing through, lets hope it is the case.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-43833833011315833142013-04-24T14:47:00.000+01:002013-04-24T15:12:27.527+01:00A Beatiful ButterflyThe other night as we were kissing the girls goodnight, one of them was wrapped up like a caterpillar in a cocoon. It got me thinking. When the girls were small one of our favourite books was 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' by Eric Carle.<br />
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We loved that book, and read it over and over again. Alas, they are too old for me to read it to them now. Thankfully, I work with small children and can read it at my place of employment.<br />
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I feel a little like that caterpillar. Not in terms of eating you understand, but metaphorically. Way back in 1970 I was born, a small little baby ready for life. As a child I remember being confident, and things nor people bothered me. However, at some stage I allowed myself to become intimidated by life in general. I began to think that everyone was better than me, in all things. I told myself that lie, until it had worn a deep well travelled rut in my head. I lost confidence and lived in a cocoon. It was safe in there and I was less likely to get hurt. I preached to myself a message of 'You are not worth much', even though I [actually should read: thought I] believed that God took me for who I am!<br />
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Over the past few months it feels like I am coming out of that cocoon. I hope and pray that I am emerging as a beautiful butterfly. I am seeking to learn about my role as a woman: what should I be doing? How should I act? What clothes should I wear? What does the bible mean to me? At the moment, I have come to the conclusion that I am to live as a person made in the image of God: To love Him and serve Him and others wholeheartedly. A lot is written in Christian blogs etc about Feminism or Submission of women under men - I really do not know what my thoughts on this are any more. It was easier when I was dogmatic about this doctrine! <br />
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I do know that by the grace of God, I have a certain amount of strength and I need to hold onto that. I also, have come to realise that misplaced guilt has no place in my life. Guilt that is real must drive me to repentance and change, but that is not what I am talking about here. So, for now I want to live as a butterfly and show the beauty that God has produced in me to my family and the rest of the world.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-79776335208805555352013-04-13T22:10:00.000+01:002013-04-13T22:10:23.710+01:00Oh to be an artist.I have always maintained that I am not an artist. I have a real envy of those who can take a sketch book and recreate wonderful scenes. My dad can draw and paint; and my 2 sisters follow in his footsteps. I, on the other hand, take after my mum. I may be up to a few stick figures scribbled on a piece of paper but that is the extent of my artistic ability. In my mind art = creativity. So if I cannot draw then I am not creative. Or so, the logic went in my grey cells.<br />
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Well, that is what I have always told myself. As I get older I am realizing that art is not the only area where a person can be creative. I am discovering a small area where my creative side can be indulged, without costing me a fortune. My daughters are extremely 'girly-girls' and they both have lovely medium to long ginger hair. Recently, I came across a marvelous place on Youtube: 'Cute Girls Hairstyles'. I have attempted a few styles already and they have not turned out too badly. So hopefully, I will learn more and expand my creative nature. <br />
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And when, I find an outlet for cheap fabric (locally or on-line), I will dust off my sewing machine and make some beautiful dresses to go with the fancy hairstyles. If I keep practicing both I will be ready in time for the eldest daughter's prom in 4 years time. TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-87255967429486093552013-04-09T11:48:00.000+01:002013-04-09T11:48:58.342+01:00Oasis of peace.At church we have been going through the gospel of John. We are near the end and have looked at the Easter story from that perspective. One thing struck me at the end of Chapter 20 is that Jesus says to his disciples 3 times; "Peace be with you." <br />
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Peace, is something that I need a lot of at the moment as my home can be really loud for a whole variety of different reasons. Sometimes, it is my children not agreeing with what they have been asked to do (Read: 2 girls who can shout a lot). Sometimes, they are playing in a way which seems incredibly loud to my post-surgery self. At other times it is the noise which emanates from the stereo or the WII. And then there are the friends which come to play occasionally.<br />
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Since, coming home from hospital I have learnt a lot of things about myself and how I deal with things. One thing I now know is that I need peace and quiet; a small oasis of it each day. I didn't realise how much until recently. Realistically, I cannot crawl into a cave each day so I am trying to crave out areas of peace within me and without. I am learning to make peace within even if the outside world is crazy.<br />
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From my reading of the scriptures I glean Jesus needed peace too. He had the peace of God within His heart. I need that and I thank God, that it is more evident nowadays. I can cultivate that by reading my Bible, helpful devotional books, prayer and hymns, friendship with other Christians; basically developing a stronger relationship with Jesus. Another way to have an inner peace is to stop comparing myself to others. I have to work on being me; sometimes I will look the same as the people around me and other times I will look different. <br />
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However, maybe because I have a weak faith, I am learning that I need some peace in my outside environment as well. The constant stream of noise which goes with 21st living is not conducive to stopping my transformation into a grumpy old woman. Unfortunately, I was not born with my mum's natural optimism towards life so developing inner peace is harder work. With that in mind, I am seeking out ways of getting peace/being more peaceful. Here are a few of my discoveries:<br />
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<li>Groove Shark has a large selection of relaxation music. Listening to it does something to my soul.</li>
<li>Walking has a calming influence.</li>
<li>I have recently discovered that I have a talent to style my girl's hair. Being creative brings its own calm.</li>
<li>Reading a whole variety of different books.</li>
<li>Playing the piano. OK, so technically, that produces noise but somehow it makes me more peaceful on the inside.</li>
<li>Searching for positive things and writing them in my special note-book.</li>
<li>Actively seeking good positive friendships.</li>
<li>Making this quote one of many to live by: "Don't let the beggars get you down." </li>
<li>Excepting the real me and being positive about the achievements I have made.</li>
<li>Finding the peace of God through a better friendship with Him.</li>
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<br />TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-3431012529494721412013-03-15T12:51:00.001+00:002013-03-15T12:53:58.630+00:00Joni's Testimony regarding Suffering.<a href="http://www.joniandfriends.org/jonis-corner/#.UUMZDq9lwYk.blogger">Joni's Corner | Joni and Friends</a><br />
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This is a talk by Joni Eareckson Tada. I have known her story for years but have only recently come across her blog. This is a good talk to listen to, it will take 40 minutes.TheMaskedSparrowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07524993907276088387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2681980524453404221.post-75941589860000057192013-03-08T09:09:00.000+00:002013-03-08T09:09:08.946+00:00A remarkable lady.<br />
When I read this on Sarah Bessey's blog I struggled at first to think who I would write about. My mum has influenced my life greatly; as have my sisters in completely different ways. I have many wonderful friends (IRL and on-line) who have taught me so much. I didn't write yesterday and then I remembered an amazing lady. Ironically, she was a Spinster but such a spiritual blessing.<br />
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Miss B. had lived for many years with her sister, and then alone. We visited her on a semi-regular basis and always came away uplifted. She was only able to come to church once in a while. Through the years we learnt her life story, and in many ways it was a sad one. She had cared for her strong-willed mum, and because of that had sacrificed career and marriage. She had been in love but her mum wouldn't let her marry. She had wanted to train as a Doctor but that wasn't allowed either. This wonderful Christian lady never complained; she told the story as a matter of fact not of complaint. She smiled and laughed a lot and it was contagious. She served her God by caring for her mum and then others. In her latter years she was only able to walk slowly across her room with the aid of crutches. She was determined and would make us cups of tea. It wasn't unknown to enter her house and find her in the kitchen propped up by the oven making marmalade in a 100 year old copper pot. She loved Jesus with a very deep love and would talk about Him every time we went. During the end of her life she was unable to live in her own home so was moved to a beautiful Residential Home and it was there she died. We still have her 'Common Book of Prayer' in our book collection which we use occasionally. <br />
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