I have on numerous occasions sat down to blog. I have even written entries, only to delete what I had written. It’s not that I haven’t had anything to say. It’s just that I am having a hard time saying what I want to say in a way that makes sense. In other words, I have been holding a part of myself back.
This is actually not a bad thing. I just have to go to Facebook and read entries where I am like wow too much information. It is sad to see people’s lives falling apart, but I can’t help but think some things should only be shared with close friends. No judgment, but for most people, Facebook is a mixture of work friends, old friends, new friends, and acquaintances. Such intimate details need not be shared with all.
I am hopeful that I will sit down and write some entries between now and Monday, which is a holiday – Thank God!
What has been on mind?
• Silencing the inner critic
• Stepping out of my comfort zone
• What is this thing called love
• Remembering that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, which may just be bullet one
I am afraid I have loss some of my thoughts. I must start writing notes. Hopefully, they will come back!
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
1.17.11 Take Two
As I said in my previous post, I am taking the time to enjoy the moment.
Sometimes in times of peace, I subconsciously create drama. It’s in little things. It starts in my mind and manifests itself in my behavior. Perhaps it’s the chaos of my childhood. It’s quite the dichotomy. I seek peace, but I don’t trust it to stay. Yet, peace is something we are to have.
I was talking to God and the message I got back was make the right choices and decisions.
Our decisions both big and small could have enormous consequences.
So, I am trying to be mindful and do the “right” thing. I am trying to think of some examples without sounding pompous or full of myself. That is something else I am working on. Lord Help Today!
Anyway, I have more to say, but I need to get back on the good foot.
Sometimes in times of peace, I subconsciously create drama. It’s in little things. It starts in my mind and manifests itself in my behavior. Perhaps it’s the chaos of my childhood. It’s quite the dichotomy. I seek peace, but I don’t trust it to stay. Yet, peace is something we are to have.
I was talking to God and the message I got back was make the right choices and decisions.
Our decisions both big and small could have enormous consequences.
So, I am trying to be mindful and do the “right” thing. I am trying to think of some examples without sounding pompous or full of myself. That is something else I am working on. Lord Help Today!
Anyway, I have more to say, but I need to get back on the good foot.
1.17.12
The last several weeks have been interesting.
I started the year off on a high. I was full of assurance and examples of God’s grace, mercy, and blessings.
Then, this little voice in the back of my head started whispering warnings of not knowing what is around the corner. It was like I began looking behind me to see what was going to come and side swipe me. Worst, I began creating drama in my mind.
It’s very interesting. The bottom line is that there are seasons. This is a season where everything is going “right,” which is just a way of me saying I have been get everything I want. This is true in big things and small things.
In moments of immaturity, I sometimes mistake God’s blessings as a sign that He is there for me.
In truth, He is there for me in times of chastisement (am I not a child of His) and in times when I don’t get me way (because I know that there will be a point in time when I have this aha moment of why I didn’t get what I threw a tantrum (stomping of the foot, falling out in tears of hysterics) for.
So, I am just going to sit back and relax and enjoy where I am at right now.
I started the year off on a high. I was full of assurance and examples of God’s grace, mercy, and blessings.
Then, this little voice in the back of my head started whispering warnings of not knowing what is around the corner. It was like I began looking behind me to see what was going to come and side swipe me. Worst, I began creating drama in my mind.
It’s very interesting. The bottom line is that there are seasons. This is a season where everything is going “right,” which is just a way of me saying I have been get everything I want. This is true in big things and small things.
In moments of immaturity, I sometimes mistake God’s blessings as a sign that He is there for me.
In truth, He is there for me in times of chastisement (am I not a child of His) and in times when I don’t get me way (because I know that there will be a point in time when I have this aha moment of why I didn’t get what I threw a tantrum (stomping of the foot, falling out in tears of hysterics) for.
So, I am just going to sit back and relax and enjoy where I am at right now.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Volume XI, Issue I Editor's Corner
Here is the newsletter that was just published in my church's newsletter.
On behalf of the PCC Scroll editing and writing team, I would like to wish you a Happy New Year! Like birthdays, the New Year is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on where we have been and turn our attention to where we are going.
In 2012, the possibilities are endless. Our pastor has declared 2012 to be a year of favor, and I receive it. In 2011, I saw ministries and dreams begin to unfold, and I am very excited to further watch them develop in 2012.
The PCC Scroll is entering into its 11th year! I have kept a copy of each issue, and I was recently browsing through some early issues. It was exciting for me to see how we have grown over the years. Many thanks to all of the editors and writers, past and present! As a member of the current editing and writing team, I am extremely excited about our plans for the New Year.
In 2012, the editing team will continue to produce the Scroll quarterly. We will also publish an anthology of original writings by members of PCC. We will be asking for original submissions in the areas of poetry, short stories, testimonies, and essays. For more information, be on the lookout for emails and bulletin announcements. The deadline for submission will be March 31, 2012. The publish date will be late fall/early winter. In 2013, we plan on publishing an anthology of past “Word of the Quarters.” In 2014, we plan on publishing a book of original recipes! This is very exciting for me! If you think you might be interested in submitting material for the upcoming anthology, please see me.
As the year closes, I have been thinking a lot about timing. There are a lot of things I wanted “yesterday.” I began thinking about my time versus God’s time. I did a Google search on God’s time, and I came across two scriptures I would like to share with you.
“For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” Habakkuk 2:3
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10
We serve a God who wants the best for us. As it reads in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
On behalf of the PCC Scroll editing and writing team, I would like to wish you a Happy New Year! Like birthdays, the New Year is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on where we have been and turn our attention to where we are going.
In 2012, the possibilities are endless. Our pastor has declared 2012 to be a year of favor, and I receive it. In 2011, I saw ministries and dreams begin to unfold, and I am very excited to further watch them develop in 2012.
The PCC Scroll is entering into its 11th year! I have kept a copy of each issue, and I was recently browsing through some early issues. It was exciting for me to see how we have grown over the years. Many thanks to all of the editors and writers, past and present! As a member of the current editing and writing team, I am extremely excited about our plans for the New Year.
In 2012, the editing team will continue to produce the Scroll quarterly. We will also publish an anthology of original writings by members of PCC. We will be asking for original submissions in the areas of poetry, short stories, testimonies, and essays. For more information, be on the lookout for emails and bulletin announcements. The deadline for submission will be March 31, 2012. The publish date will be late fall/early winter. In 2013, we plan on publishing an anthology of past “Word of the Quarters.” In 2014, we plan on publishing a book of original recipes! This is very exciting for me! If you think you might be interested in submitting material for the upcoming anthology, please see me.
As the year closes, I have been thinking a lot about timing. There are a lot of things I wanted “yesterday.” I began thinking about my time versus God’s time. I did a Google search on God’s time, and I came across two scriptures I would like to share with you.
“For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” Habakkuk 2:3
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10
We serve a God who wants the best for us. As it reads in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Questions's From Yam's Blog Four
Questions's From Yam's Blog Four
What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before?
This year, I bought a Christmas tree for my house. It was a small, Charlie Brown tree, but a tree nonetheless. I also visited three countries I had never spent any time in.
Did you keep your New Years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
My goals for 2011 were: travel, write, and work on my health.
I traveled this year, and I wrote for my church newsletter and blog. As for my health, I need to make a better effort. My goal for 2012 is to make what I eat count, meaning the food should have some nutritional benefit. Like ice cream has calcium, a Twinkie, well not so much benefit.
Goals for 2012: Travel, publish an anthology for my church, and make what I eat count.
Did anyone close to you give birth?
I type no with trembling fingers. No baby showers this year for me.
Did anyone close to you die?
Yes. Below is a segment from my Editor’s Corner from the July 1 PCC Scroll:
On May 1, the pastor of the church I attended when I was a child passed away. I was able to reconnect with him and his wife a few years ago and thank them for all they did for me and my sisters when we were growing up. On May 14, my grandmother on my dad’s side passed away. Although I didn’t know her that well, it was sad to hear of her passing. She was my last grandparent. On June 7, the aunt of one of my close friends passed away. I spent 2.5 weeks with her during my trip to India. She was such a strong woman, a historian, and a story teller. She and the other ladies I stayed with found a sacred place in my heart.
http://latonja.blogspot.com/2011/07/july-1-2011-pcc-scroll-editors-corner.html
What countries did you visit?
I went to Hong Kong, China, and Macau.
What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?
I would like to have more of a dating life.
What date from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory?
My trip days are always such a huge part of my memory in any given year. Travel is inspiring and changing. I also enjoyed seeing Prince on December 19 with Desiree.
What was your biggest achievement of the year?
I’ve had a goal to increase my “I don’t have a job” emergency fund. I’ve made some serious inroads. For 2011, I decided to not drink any alcohol and I kept that goal. I also had a day of devotion where I read scripture, prayed, and blogged about it. I accomplished that as well.
What was your biggest failure?
That’s an interesting question. One thing I have been working on is not letting anything destroy my internal peace. Despite any chaos and drama, I need to remain centered. I’ve made inroads, but I still find myself being taken in by dumb stuff. Need to keep working on it.
Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nothing major, just a few colds. My health tends to be good.
What was the best thing you bought?
My ticket to Hong Kong. I have also been trying to revamp my closet so I’ve been going clothes shopping.
Whose behavior merited celebration?
I noticed that a lot of people are trying to accomplish their dreams. I am very proud of those people.
Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
This is an interesting question. I find it depressing when people just don’t tell the truth. Like, if you tell me you love me, then love me.
Where did most of your money go?
I splurge on travel. Technically, most of my money went on my mortgage.
What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Travel plans and plots on future travel plans. I was also super excited to see Prince again.
What song/album will always remind you of 2011?
Nothing comes to mind.
Compared to this time last year, are you:
happier or sadder? Happier
thinner or fatter? Fatter
richer or poorer? Richer
What do you wish you'd done more of?
I wish I could afford to do more travel.
What do you wish you'd done less of?
I need to stop reaching out to people who don’t really care about me. I should really focus on those who love me.
How will you be spending New Year's?
Watch Night service at church then home where I will have sparkling cider.
Who did you spend the most time on the phone with?
Probably my friend Sophia who lives in Florida.
Did you fall in love in 2011?
No, but I developed a crush.
How many one night stands in this last year?
Do people do that? I don’t.
What was your favourite TV programme?
I don’t really watch current shows. I like watching syndicated programs of Seinfeld, The Office, and 30 Rock. I did discovery Grey’s Anatomy via Netflix.
Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I don’t really hate anyone, but there are people who are not healthy to be around.
What was the best book(s) you read?
I keep rereading the same books. I have however rediscovered romance novels. It’s my secret shame.
What was your greatest musical discovery?
I rediscovered Prince.
What did you want and get?
I wanted to travel, and I was able to save enough money to do so. Oh, and my job was upgraded!
What did you want and not get?
Last year this time, I was hoping for Mr. Right to come along. This is kind of a dilemma for me. I am comfortable and happy in my current state. I don’t want someone to come a long just for the sake of having someone. He was to be the right someone.
What were your favorite films of this year?
I must have watched some new films year. I saw Something Borrowed and that was cute. It doesn’t really classify as favorite though.
What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 37, and I went out to pizza with some of my friends. I also went to other lunches and dinners.
What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
As I get older, I realize that nothing external can make me satisfied. That has to come from inside. So, I will say appreciate for the blessings in my life.
How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?
I tend to be casual.
What kept you sane?
Writing and my awesome community.
Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
The old favorites are still in play.
What political issue stirred you the most?
Democrats and Republics playing silly, partisan games that do more damage than good.
Who did you miss?
I miss my friends who live far away like Yamini, Mary, and Molly.
Who was the best new person you met?
Do I even meet new people? Well, maybe my crush.
Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.
People show you how they feel. Talk is cheap; it takes money to buy land.
Quote a song lyric that sums up your year?
What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before?
This year, I bought a Christmas tree for my house. It was a small, Charlie Brown tree, but a tree nonetheless. I also visited three countries I had never spent any time in.
Did you keep your New Years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
My goals for 2011 were: travel, write, and work on my health.
I traveled this year, and I wrote for my church newsletter and blog. As for my health, I need to make a better effort. My goal for 2012 is to make what I eat count, meaning the food should have some nutritional benefit. Like ice cream has calcium, a Twinkie, well not so much benefit.
Goals for 2012: Travel, publish an anthology for my church, and make what I eat count.
Did anyone close to you give birth?
I type no with trembling fingers. No baby showers this year for me.
Did anyone close to you die?
Yes. Below is a segment from my Editor’s Corner from the July 1 PCC Scroll:
On May 1, the pastor of the church I attended when I was a child passed away. I was able to reconnect with him and his wife a few years ago and thank them for all they did for me and my sisters when we were growing up. On May 14, my grandmother on my dad’s side passed away. Although I didn’t know her that well, it was sad to hear of her passing. She was my last grandparent. On June 7, the aunt of one of my close friends passed away. I spent 2.5 weeks with her during my trip to India. She was such a strong woman, a historian, and a story teller. She and the other ladies I stayed with found a sacred place in my heart.
http://latonja.blogspot.com/2011/07/july-1-2011-pcc-scroll-editors-corner.html
What countries did you visit?
I went to Hong Kong, China, and Macau.
What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?
I would like to have more of a dating life.
What date from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory?
My trip days are always such a huge part of my memory in any given year. Travel is inspiring and changing. I also enjoyed seeing Prince on December 19 with Desiree.
What was your biggest achievement of the year?
I’ve had a goal to increase my “I don’t have a job” emergency fund. I’ve made some serious inroads. For 2011, I decided to not drink any alcohol and I kept that goal. I also had a day of devotion where I read scripture, prayed, and blogged about it. I accomplished that as well.
What was your biggest failure?
That’s an interesting question. One thing I have been working on is not letting anything destroy my internal peace. Despite any chaos and drama, I need to remain centered. I’ve made inroads, but I still find myself being taken in by dumb stuff. Need to keep working on it.
Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nothing major, just a few colds. My health tends to be good.
What was the best thing you bought?
My ticket to Hong Kong. I have also been trying to revamp my closet so I’ve been going clothes shopping.
Whose behavior merited celebration?
I noticed that a lot of people are trying to accomplish their dreams. I am very proud of those people.
Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
This is an interesting question. I find it depressing when people just don’t tell the truth. Like, if you tell me you love me, then love me.
Where did most of your money go?
I splurge on travel. Technically, most of my money went on my mortgage.
What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Travel plans and plots on future travel plans. I was also super excited to see Prince again.
What song/album will always remind you of 2011?
Nothing comes to mind.
Compared to this time last year, are you:
happier or sadder? Happier
thinner or fatter? Fatter
richer or poorer? Richer
What do you wish you'd done more of?
I wish I could afford to do more travel.
What do you wish you'd done less of?
I need to stop reaching out to people who don’t really care about me. I should really focus on those who love me.
How will you be spending New Year's?
Watch Night service at church then home where I will have sparkling cider.
Who did you spend the most time on the phone with?
Probably my friend Sophia who lives in Florida.
Did you fall in love in 2011?
No, but I developed a crush.
How many one night stands in this last year?
Do people do that? I don’t.
What was your favourite TV programme?
I don’t really watch current shows. I like watching syndicated programs of Seinfeld, The Office, and 30 Rock. I did discovery Grey’s Anatomy via Netflix.
Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I don’t really hate anyone, but there are people who are not healthy to be around.
What was the best book(s) you read?
I keep rereading the same books. I have however rediscovered romance novels. It’s my secret shame.
What was your greatest musical discovery?
I rediscovered Prince.
What did you want and get?
I wanted to travel, and I was able to save enough money to do so. Oh, and my job was upgraded!
What did you want and not get?
Last year this time, I was hoping for Mr. Right to come along. This is kind of a dilemma for me. I am comfortable and happy in my current state. I don’t want someone to come a long just for the sake of having someone. He was to be the right someone.
What were your favorite films of this year?
I must have watched some new films year. I saw Something Borrowed and that was cute. It doesn’t really classify as favorite though.
What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 37, and I went out to pizza with some of my friends. I also went to other lunches and dinners.
What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
As I get older, I realize that nothing external can make me satisfied. That has to come from inside. So, I will say appreciate for the blessings in my life.
How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?
I tend to be casual.
What kept you sane?
Writing and my awesome community.
Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
The old favorites are still in play.
What political issue stirred you the most?
Democrats and Republics playing silly, partisan games that do more damage than good.
Who did you miss?
I miss my friends who live far away like Yamini, Mary, and Molly.
Who was the best new person you met?
Do I even meet new people? Well, maybe my crush.
Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.
People show you how they feel. Talk is cheap; it takes money to buy land.
Quote a song lyric that sums up your year?
2011 Letter
2011 was a good year. I can’t remember anything major happening to me. It was more things happening to those around me.
As you know, I have a goal to take one major trip each year. This year, I visited my friend Alice who lives in Hong Kong. We also went to China and Macau. I liked Hong Kong. It was a city with a fast pulse. I particularly liked what I called the real Hong Kong. This is the Hong Kong outside of the tourist area. Macau was awesome. I would actually like spending some time just walking up and down their old roads. They had the best buns, and it made me want to go to Portugal! It had a really good feel to it. I had a small glimpse at China, and I am hungry for me. The greatest part of the trip was being able to hang out with a good friend.
I also traveled to NYC for my job. It was a great trip and my friend Sophia joined me. I was able to see the Spider Man show on Broadway. It was fun to just walk around, and we went to a comedy show that was actually funny.
This year, three great people passed away. It’s weird because on one hand, it seems like a lot of young people are passing away. On the other hand, it seems like a lot of mighty oaks are falling. The pastor from my youth, my grandmother, and my friend Yamini’s Aunt Mani who I spent time with in India all went to the other side.
I am still working for the Port of Seattle. October 1, 2011, marked my 15th anniversary (included my temp time). I am grateful to have a job, and especially grateful that it was upgraded. The first 15 years went by so fast. I assume the next 15 will go by just as quickly. Time is moving!
Church is going well. I am putting the final touches to the first issue of year 11 of our newsletter. It’s hard to believe it’s been that long. It continues to be something I enjoy. I know I was called to write, and my skills as an editor are improving. I am also an usher still. I have come a long way from my “mean usher” days. God has been good to me. God has surrounded me with wonderful people. I am truly blessed in this area. God has sent me a lot of love, and I am thankful for it. I am very excited about our plans to publish an anthology next year.
My hair is coming along. January 8 will mark two years of locking.
I have no idea of what 2012 will bring, but I am excited. I think it’s going to be a good year!
I pray that you had a Merry Christmas and will have a Happy New Year!
As you know, I have a goal to take one major trip each year. This year, I visited my friend Alice who lives in Hong Kong. We also went to China and Macau. I liked Hong Kong. It was a city with a fast pulse. I particularly liked what I called the real Hong Kong. This is the Hong Kong outside of the tourist area. Macau was awesome. I would actually like spending some time just walking up and down their old roads. They had the best buns, and it made me want to go to Portugal! It had a really good feel to it. I had a small glimpse at China, and I am hungry for me. The greatest part of the trip was being able to hang out with a good friend.
I also traveled to NYC for my job. It was a great trip and my friend Sophia joined me. I was able to see the Spider Man show on Broadway. It was fun to just walk around, and we went to a comedy show that was actually funny.
This year, three great people passed away. It’s weird because on one hand, it seems like a lot of young people are passing away. On the other hand, it seems like a lot of mighty oaks are falling. The pastor from my youth, my grandmother, and my friend Yamini’s Aunt Mani who I spent time with in India all went to the other side.
I am still working for the Port of Seattle. October 1, 2011, marked my 15th anniversary (included my temp time). I am grateful to have a job, and especially grateful that it was upgraded. The first 15 years went by so fast. I assume the next 15 will go by just as quickly. Time is moving!
Church is going well. I am putting the final touches to the first issue of year 11 of our newsletter. It’s hard to believe it’s been that long. It continues to be something I enjoy. I know I was called to write, and my skills as an editor are improving. I am also an usher still. I have come a long way from my “mean usher” days. God has been good to me. God has surrounded me with wonderful people. I am truly blessed in this area. God has sent me a lot of love, and I am thankful for it. I am very excited about our plans to publish an anthology next year.
My hair is coming along. January 8 will mark two years of locking.
I have no idea of what 2012 will bring, but I am excited. I think it’s going to be a good year!
I pray that you had a Merry Christmas and will have a Happy New Year!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Week 52
“I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.” Ecclesiastes 9:11
“But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Matthew 24:13
I am so relieved that this has come to an end. It started out good, but became a chore, which kind of defeats the purpose of having a day of devotion.
I am a little tickled because I wanted to use a certain scripture to mark the end of my journey. As it turns out, I had created by own scripture by combining Ecclesiastes 9:11 and Matthew 24:13 to make LTB 1:1, which says,
The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
So, part of my finishing the task was enduring until the end. I honestly wanted to quit much earlier, but it was so important for me to finish the race once I started.
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7
“But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Matthew 24:13
I am so relieved that this has come to an end. It started out good, but became a chore, which kind of defeats the purpose of having a day of devotion.
I am a little tickled because I wanted to use a certain scripture to mark the end of my journey. As it turns out, I had created by own scripture by combining Ecclesiastes 9:11 and Matthew 24:13 to make LTB 1:1, which says,
The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
So, part of my finishing the task was enduring until the end. I honestly wanted to quit much earlier, but it was so important for me to finish the race once I started.
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7
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