Thursday, October 15, 2009
Question #5
Yes, I do believe Christians should tithe.. but I fear I don't know a lot about it and therefore am not sure I have much authority on the matter. But, coming from the perspective of someone who has rarely tithed or has been partnered with those who rarely or stingily tithe..I have always found it to be a beautiful goal to give 90 percent of one's earnings for the church's use while living on only the remaining 10 percent. But where does the money go, exactly?? I really don't know.
I'd be cool with it if some of the funds went to the church itself, to things like maintenance and keeping it clean, etc. (Not okay if for needless plasma screens and stuff.. or for becoming a mega church like Joel Osteen's..) I'd want most of it to go toward projects, however, for making the world better, like funds for a mission trip or a mission project somewhere.
Isn't the expected level 10%? Maybe the "requirement" should be that we give 100% of our heart..and then the money would follow suit..? I think so. That's what God really wants, anyway. In Revelation 3:16 we're told that God wants us to be hot or cold, at least, just anything but lukewarm. So if we give the recommended amount but aren't particularly fired up about the actual process of giving, God will just "spit [it] out of [his] mouth."
I do not personally put money in the passing basket. Jake does occasionally place a prepared check in there, but rarely, during these days with our hardly grown-up lifestyle. (We don't plan ahead very well even for paying bills on time, let alone for giving any extra gifts to the world.)
Saturday, October 10, 2009
"Hot as hookah at a home party's Friday night rave."
If you've never tried hookah or if you think you know what it's all about, I encourage you to give it a second or third or even fourth thought. It's this amazing thing that not a lot of people don't prefer (I've de-hookah-virginized many a compadre and not one has disliked it yet; even my stubborn husband has converted).
One of my favorite places to go on the weekend is The Egyptian Cafe & Hooka Bar on Carrollton in Broadripple. It's a great place to go with a big group when you'd like to just chill and chat and chew the fat (I only said that cuz it rhymes).The Egyptian is legit, my friends. It's one of the only hooka bars/providers in the area (Indianapolis) and from what I've seen of others, it's one of the best.
Imagine a smokey cave where your eyes don't burn and your lungs don't hate you. The "smoke" is basically fruity, misty air and it smells amazing and exotic.
99% of the people that work there are legitimately of the origin of hooka (I don't know where they're actually from and won't pretend to, and no, the answer is not necessarily Egypt, but thanks). Oh, except for the bouncer, this grinning black guy named Jared or Jason or something (he got Cat's number once), and he thinks he a b.a. but we all know the truth, J.
I would tell you who the best waiter is but I've never been told his name and they all look the same, so it wouldn't help any, but he's awesome.

The FOOD is OUTRAGEOUS. My faves = the homemade baklava, and our group always gets a couple things of the homemade pita and hummus (best you've ever had) and the Egyptian fries..holy shmoly so good. They also have Turkish coffee, which they serve on a tray with your own little individual tea set. Beware though, because it's tar, let's be real. Delicious, hot, steamy tar.

Oh, yeah, and of course the hooka is bomb. We usually order 3 bowls for a group of 8 or so and it's enough for 2-3 hours. Last night we ordered the Egyptian Blend (get it. it's a given. a bit more expensive cuz it's a special blend, but worth it.) Apple (tastes like black licorice & no one ever likes it so I'm not sure why we got it actually..) and Strawberry Mint, a mix of 2 basic blends that tastes like candy. The strawberry gives you the fruity delicious flavor and the mint gives a cool, smooth sensation.
My friend Jen took a ton of pics (the ones on here are from the website), so when I get those from her, I'll put them up.
Conclusion: "You can't hate it if you've never tried it." and also, I always "hate" things all the time but who are we to completely give up on anything? Even if you've had a bad experience, try again. I've done that with many things and I'm so glad I did, because I've changed my mind on several occasions and in the end gained something more to be thankful for.
And as for your lungs, etc, it's not like cigarettes, it's more like a pipe, only even better because the power behind hookah is the water in the bowl, making it more of a steam than a smoke, and yes, most have an element of tobacco, but it is minimal. So get over it, already, and experience "all that is good" because I'm telling you, hookah is goooood!! :-) The only thing to prepare for is that you might be a little overwhelmed the first time (I thought I might or might not have been dying that first night) because it is pretty smoky, but a quick step outside takes care of that!
So check it out, see what you think. You never know when you might discover something beautiful.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Question #4
First of all, I'm already married and pretty disconnected from my family, so this is a really weird idea to think about. I have, however, dated black guys in the past, and when I "brought them home" it wasn't because I was in love with them or was thinking about marrying them; it was a lust kind of thing.
I dated one my sophomore year and he only came over a couple times so that we could make out. My dad didn't like it and was a nutcase the entire time, but I'd never really brought a guy over before, so it probably wasn't about race, but more about gender. And he didn't really care/wasn't really involved otherwise--he served only as the P.D.A. Police when necessary.
The other guy was a kid from Texas that had been adopted into a white family and only came to visit his Christian dad every summer and some holidays, like Christmas. I met him my seventh grade summer while I was swimming at my grandma's pool and he was working outside at his dad's used car shop, which was right behind my grandma's house. Whenever he came back to Indiana, we acted as if we were boyfriend/girlfriend again, and when he left, it was like neither of us existed for the other. It was weird.
So maybe that's why my dad didn't like the black guys. It's hard to tell..especially since the black guys happened to be horny players and the only other guys I brought over were white, square, Christian virgins I dated in order to get over the black guys. Who knows.
But I do remember growing up arguing about race with my dad. He would never admit to being a racist, but he carried the attitude of one. He would never have dressed as a KKK or anything, but I don't think he would have loved Derrick or Cole if I'd have. And I can sort of understand why; the only other black men my dad had experienced were either arrogant pricks or wife-beater-cheaters (my cousin's old husband & my sister's new one) and both Derrick & Cole acted similarly (unnecessarily disrespectful, overly physical). I think it was those things that had my mom a little on edge too.
But in the end, it didn't matter anyway, because I found myself marrying the All-American blonde-haired, blue-eyed white boy, and in that way, I think I avoided the disaster my father was afraid of, even if it had nothing to do with color & more to do with consequence.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Interview with Me
I think I'm finally happy with life. I've been discontented for too long, and now I'm actually smiling that real smile you only smile when you're falling in love or just got a major A. I love that I'm almost done with college, that I've made some great friends, that I got to experience college life a little and still be a mommy and wife, and that now I get to be a real Mommy and Wife and get a grown-up job. I'm excited about the future!
Are you cheating on someone right now?
I'm not, and I only thank God for that. Jake and I have been to some low places in the past (nearly) four years, and we've hurt each other in ways we never thought we would, but all those hideous moments we would have rather hidden from view are moments that God has pulled out for a reason--to sharpen us, to purify us, and to mend us together tighter than we could have for ourselves. And these trials have made us that much stronger and that much more equipped to love each other and others.
When is the last time you hugged someone?
Jake and Jo and I snuggled a lot last night. Yesterday was Jake's birthday, and snuggling is all he asked for :)
Do you still talk to the person you were dating 4 months ago?
I haven't officially dated anyone besides Jake since my sophomore year of high school, and Jake and I are still kickin' it, yup!
Are you nice to everyone?
I'm really not, and I can't decide if that's okay or not. I know what my pastor would say..that we should love everyone, but sometimes I look back on all the people who were mean to me and I'm glad they were, because I was acting in such a way that they should have been really pissed off, and if they hadn't been, I might have kept acting ridiculous. I think love can come in all kinds of forms, and sometimes a person hears what you're saying best when it comes out a little harsh. I know I've appreciated it, in the past. But at the same time it's important to love overall, to scold but not turn your back completely, and to walk with someone all the way.
Ever kissed under mistletoe?
You know, my first reaction was to say no, but I have this fading memory of Jake and I at my Aunt Leta's house standing under the arch between her dining and living room and us kissing there, with her watching, and her smiling, and saying something cutesy. Gosh, I miss that lady..
How many hours of sleep did you get last night?
Not sure. I don't remember when we went to bed, but I went to bed earlier than normal, and I love that. I think that's part of what's making me happier, going to bed at the same time as Jake for once.
Ever been cheated on?
I have. It's not fun.
How do you feel about teenage pregnancy?
I feel great about it! (Ha.) No, but seriously, people take things too seriously. Those who looked at me and saw a tragedy were making a fool of themselves. There is no predictable tragedy, only those you don't foresee. I knew I would be fine, and I was, but only because I didn't let what all the haters said get to me, and thank God for that. It could have been like a self-fulfilling prophecy, only set off by those who judged us. I hope someday they'll understand how wrong they were, not just because we're beautiful and going strong but because it's never right to judge another's situation. It's an arrogant thing, to think you know better than someone else when you've never been where they're going (and heck, even if you have).
How is your heart lately?
Uhh..it's dragging a little due to the smoke inhalation of late (it's only social, and I'm stopping..don't judge me) but other than the physicality of it, it's happy. I've got a great life for it to rest in.
Next time you will kiss someone on the lips?
Whenever Jo wants to pucker up or when my handsome hubby gets home. Or maybe if Early or Gemma decide they want to smooch :)
Do you understand football?
Mmm...mostly. I think it's a little overdone, but I'm okay with it. It makes my favorite boys very happy, and it's cute. We have our fashion; they have their football.
When was the last time a member of the opposite sex hugged you?
Last night Jake and I hugged a lot. We hung out just the 2 (/3) of us like we used to in the good ole days.
Will this weekend be a good one?
I'm sure it will be. I don't have any real plans..besides officially quitting lacrosse :( But the weekends when I don't have plans are my favorite. There are so many good things that can happen with a little time and fall weather.
Do you have a reason to smile right now?
I do. 4 in particular. I love my guy and he's good to me and he knows me more than anyone and that's important. I love my girl because there's too much to love for it to be any other way. She's beautiful and smart and talented and sweet and I love watching her grow up and being a part of that. And I love my cats because they're great little pets and they make me feel more at home. And I love fall..ohhhhh how I love fall!! There's a lot to love about life right now.
Can you go a day without music?
I'm sure I can because I'm sure I have..but there's music in other forms and that gets me by.
Will you be in a relationship in the next couple months?
I'll be in one, in particular, that matters the most, and I know I always will be.
What was your last text messaging conversation about?
Me to Jake: Can you grab some more milk and cereal, preferably some cool kind of cheerios again? I love you my bacon-bringing-home husband.
Jake to Me: lol yes I can
Me: Thanks lover
Jake: You're welcome, most sexy lady o'mine
Favorite number?
It used to be 23 because back then, it was all about me, but now my favorite numbers is 3 because that's how old Jo is and that's who/what it's all about now.
Did you deny or accept your last friend request?
I'm sure I accepted. I used to reject a lot but rejection sucks, so I accept, these days.
When was the last time you had a late night phone call?
Cheeze called at 12:45 the other night, but I was already asleep. I've been calling it in early the past couple days, and they're not used to it yet :)
How has September been for you?
It's been..........informative. Yes, that's the best word. I've learned a lot about myself and others and God and I really like what I'm learning. It's been kinda like Fall, actually..ironically enough.. (and I loooove Fall..) The old has been falling away, and I'm loving the new.
What were you doing right before you began this survey?
Writing in my "Jo Journal". It's the journal I started especially for Jo the month she was born. I want her to be able to look back on her life through the eyes of someone who loved her, so that she can never say she wasn't loved and watched and protected and admired.
What if you had a baby with the last person you texted?
You know......I would love that. I think I'm ready for another of Jake's children. He makes good ones, after all. (Except I'm hoping the next one looks a bit more like me so I don't have to keep feeling so.....brunette...around here.)
Could you go a month without talking to your best friend?
My best friends live with me, really, so I suppose I could.. but it would be certifiably heart-wrenching.
Is it more common for you to follow your heart or your mind?
For too long I've been confusing the two, but I think I'm finally starting to get it right, and God uses both of them to speak to me and through me, so I'm not concerned with following one over the other, I'm just concerned with getting them to finally work together.
Do you think age matters in a relationship?
Before typing this answer, I would have said that it didn't matter, but I really think it does at a point. Around 10 years or so.. maybe not.. but when it comes to the point when you could have fathered/mothered a child, well... that's when it gets to be a bit unnatural, I think, and natural is what God intended. Not to say it would be wrong necessarily, just that it wouldn't be all the way right.
Who did you last take a picture with?
The hubs. We took a picture together so that I could blog it, actually. A picture of us on his 23rd birthday, last night.
How far away are you from the person you like?
I like a lot of people, including Jo, and she's just in the next room. (Jake's at work in Marion, though :( )
When is the last time you were at a beach?
Spring Break '09! Cocoa Beach with Jake & Jo on our first little family vaca :)
Your ex calls wanting to hangout, what do you say?
I'd sing the JoJo song..what is it again?...."You're just a little too late, a little too long, and I can't waihaaaaiitttttt" Ha, no. Maybe not. But I'd say he's gotta move on because I have and it's definitely the way it's supposed to be.
Did you have a dream last night?
I think so, but they're always so hard to remember in the morning and it's now afternoon. Cold move, Survey.
Do you think you'll be married in 5 years?
Yes, I do, and I'm very happy about it :)
Would you go out with someone right now if they asked?
I think y'all know the answer to that one..
Do you think someone has feelings for you?
I know it!
Are you anything like you were at this point last year?
I think I'm a little like her because there's a part of me that's been there all along--she's just been too afraid to come out--and now she's finally showing herself and she's really quite stunning, actually.
Think a lot before you fall asleep?
Some nights, yes, but last night I konked out right on the couch while Jake was watching football. I've been a sleepy girl as of late.
Do you know anyone who's having a baby?
No, but I wish it was me, I think.
Last kiss?
Jake kissed my sleepy-head this morning before he left for work. So sweet.
Regret it?
No chance.
Have you ever been called heartless?
No way. And if I have, that person really really didn't know me, because the people that truly do know me sometimes think I have too much heart.
Who was the last person to give you a hug?
Joie-Baby
Will you talk to the person you like tonight?
I will be with them, yup.
What is something you disliked about your day?
I don't think I've disliked anything, really! Fall has put a happy-spell on me.
Do you think you'll have the same best friend a year from now?
I consider Jake & Jo & my cats to be my bffs and, unless they run away or something, we'll be tight as ever in a year. Otherwise, I hold hope that the rest will still be just a text away, at least.
Current bother?
I'm taking too much time loving this day and not getting done the stuff I need to..haha...so I'm starting to feel a little anxious, but I'll make it.
Last time you cried?
A few minutes ago, just a bit, but God took care of it.
Have you ever kissed anyone whose name started with a J?
I kiss two people whose names start with J, and I do it daily :)
Have you ever kissed someone and never saw them again?
Basically, yes, and it breaks a heart.
Have you accidentally sent a text to the wrong person?
Yes, but it wasn't a horror story or anything like that. I'm very meticulous.
Do you hate the last person you kissed?
Definitely not.
Have you ever received a text message that made you cry?
I can recall a few times, yep.
Does the last person you kissed have anything of yours?
Everything.
Are you a mean person?
No. But I can have an attitude.
Did you talk to someone until you fell asleep last night?
Sorta. Jake and I talked until we got too tired and then we fell asleep together.
How bad are heartbreaks?
They hurt the worst, but they're the best to get over.
Is there someone you don't ever want to be out of your life?
I've got plenty of someone's like that, thank God.
Who have you kissed with the name starting with a R?
Just some boys. They're old news now.
Last time you were really happy?
These past 2 days. I even got kicked out of my counselor's office, which I consider such a great thing.
Could you go the rest of your life without drinking alcohol?
You know, it's gotten to be like a food you ate too much of for too long--after awhile it gets old and you want something entirely different for a change. But I mean, I'll drink again. There's no doubt.
Ever given your all to someone who walked away?
I have given my all, but only to one: Jacob. And he's the only one besides God who has seen it all, and he's walked away but never for very far and he always turns around with a smile on and with his arms open. And that's what makes him mine.
Have you ever felt like you weren’t good enough?
I've felt that way many times for too long, but it's a lie. What is "enough"? Enough for him or her or them? The only one worth being good for is God, and if you can figure that out and figure out how, you'll be good enough for yourself, too, and after that, nothing else matters.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Ever had a really, really bad morning?
I can't tell you how it began, and that wouldn't matter anyway, but I can tell you that it ended in broken glass, glass that I had to pick up the pieces of once he'd gone.
My initial reaction was one of distaste, but the angrier I got, the more I thought... And suddenly (or should I say finally) I made a connection. And I thought to myself, "Could it be that these simple misgivings, these subtle mistakes that build up and shatter at the most inopportune times.. could their presence in our lives be a sign of a greater break, found deeper within than we'd been looking?
What I mean to say, simply, is that it doesn't feel much to me like Jake's and my ways, theories, actions, opinions have been flowing alongside that shimmering, holy and divinely flowing path of God.
It feels much to me like we are off track.
Even what could be seen as tiny mistakes, unimportant decisions... are no longer tiny and unimportant when the aftermath of our decision presents itself in the most unpleasant of ways. Our failures become clear, our faults seem to have been changed by default to bold instead of the light version of the font we'd originally selected.
Apparently these are little reminders (that too often feel like the end of our world) that we should be seeking sanctification with God. Or at least that's how I see it, for right now. And unfortunately..as much as I'd like to say that I hear His message loud and clear......He and I and everyone else knows that I'll need those continual reminders and maybe even sometimes a little broken glass.