Song of Solomon
Chapter One
“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth,
For your love is better than wine.” Vs.2
This shows a delight in physical affection.
Chapter Two
“Like a lily among thorns,
So is my love among the daughters.” Vs.2
He compares her to other women, and finds her superior.
“Like an apple tree among the trees of the woods,
So is my beloved among the sons.
I sat down in his shade with great delight,
And his fruit was sweet to my taste.” Vs.3
She sees her beloved as an outstanding man. She fantasizes about their lovemaking. It is imagined rather than actual, despite the vivid language.
“Let me see your face,
Let me hear your voice,
For your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely.” Vs.14
She feels longing and misses the sound of his voice.
“My beloved is mine and I am his.” Vs. 16
She feels secure in his love.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Captivated
Song of Solomon
Chapter Three
“…When I found the one I loved,
I held him and would not let him go.” Vs.4
Have you ever felt that kind of desperate clinging, where you almost dare the other person to be the first to let go?
“On the day of his wedding,
The day of the gladness of his heart.” Vs.11
Weddings are like that.
Chapter Four
“You are all fair, my love!
And there is no spot in you.” Vs.7
She is not perfect, but she is perfect for him.
“You have ravished my heart,
My sister, my spouse;
You have ravished my heart
With one look of your eyes,
With one link of your necklace.” Vs.9
He praises everything about her. He is captivated by her when she looks at him.
“A garden enclosed
Is my sister, my spouse,
A spring shut up,
A fountain sealed.” Vs.12
These are images of her virginity.
“Let my beloved come to his garden
And eat its pleasant fruits.” Vs.16
She invites him to unlock the “garden” of her virginity.
Chapter Three
“…When I found the one I loved,
I held him and would not let him go.” Vs.4
Have you ever felt that kind of desperate clinging, where you almost dare the other person to be the first to let go?
“On the day of his wedding,
The day of the gladness of his heart.” Vs.11
Weddings are like that.
Chapter Four
“You are all fair, my love!
And there is no spot in you.” Vs.7
She is not perfect, but she is perfect for him.
“You have ravished my heart,
My sister, my spouse;
You have ravished my heart
With one look of your eyes,
With one link of your necklace.” Vs.9
He praises everything about her. He is captivated by her when she looks at him.
“A garden enclosed
Is my sister, my spouse,
A spring shut up,
A fountain sealed.” Vs.12
These are images of her virginity.
“Let my beloved come to his garden
And eat its pleasant fruits.” Vs.16
She invites him to unlock the “garden” of her virginity.
Desire
Song of Solomon
Chapter Five
“I have come to my garden, my sister, my spouse.” Vs. 1
The woman dreams of the consummation, and the approval of family and friends.
The lover accepts his beloved’s invitation.
“I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem,
If you find my beloved.
That you tell him I am lovesick!” Vs.8
She has a nightmare that she loses her lover.
“My beloved is…chief among ten thousand.” Vs.10
She describes him in elaborate terms
“His locks are wavy, black as a raven.” Vs.11
“His body is carved ivory.” Vs.14
“His legs are pillars of marble.” Vs.15
“His mouth is most sweet.” Vs.15
Sounds good to me!
“Yes, he is altogether lovely.
This is my beloved,
And this is my friend.” Vs.16
It’s a great marriage when he is both a lover and a friend.
Sometimes it’s good to list what you love about your beloved. One anniversary a few years’ back, I gave my husband a card where I listed as many of the reasons I loved him as the years we’d been married. These were character traits as well as physical attributes.
Chapter Six
“My dove, my perfect one,
Is the only one.” Vs.9
Lovely terms of endearment.
Every couple should have pet names for each other, even if it’s only said in private.
“Who is she who looks forth as the morning,
Fair as the moon,
Clear as the sun,
Awesome as an army with banners?” Vs.10
She is described in majestic terms.
Chapter Five
“I have come to my garden, my sister, my spouse.” Vs. 1
The woman dreams of the consummation, and the approval of family and friends.
The lover accepts his beloved’s invitation.
“I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem,
If you find my beloved.
That you tell him I am lovesick!” Vs.8
She has a nightmare that she loses her lover.
“My beloved is…chief among ten thousand.” Vs.10
She describes him in elaborate terms
“His locks are wavy, black as a raven.” Vs.11
“His body is carved ivory.” Vs.14
“His legs are pillars of marble.” Vs.15
“His mouth is most sweet.” Vs.15
Sounds good to me!
“Yes, he is altogether lovely.
This is my beloved,
And this is my friend.” Vs.16
It’s a great marriage when he is both a lover and a friend.
Sometimes it’s good to list what you love about your beloved. One anniversary a few years’ back, I gave my husband a card where I listed as many of the reasons I loved him as the years we’d been married. These were character traits as well as physical attributes.
Chapter Six
“My dove, my perfect one,
Is the only one.” Vs.9
Lovely terms of endearment.
Every couple should have pet names for each other, even if it’s only said in private.
“Who is she who looks forth as the morning,
Fair as the moon,
Clear as the sun,
Awesome as an army with banners?” Vs.10
She is described in majestic terms.
Romantic Getaways
Song of Solomon
Chapter Seven
“A king is held captive by your tresses.” Vs.5
Men love women’s hair, and women know it.
The man fancies himself a king, enchanted by the beauty of his princess.
“How fair and how pleasant you are,
O love, with your delights!” Vs.6
The woman responds to her beloved’s wooing with happy surrender.
“I am my beloveds’,
And his desire is toward me.” Vs.10
She feels safe and secure in his love for her and enjoys his desire for her.
“Come, my beloved,
Let us go…lodge in the villages.
There I will give you my love.
…pleasant fruits…all manner, new and old,
Which I have laid up for you, my beloved.” Vs.11-13
I think this is equivalent to taking a honeymoon trip or a romantic getaway. They go to a different place, stay over, and concentrate on each other. Sometimes couples need a change of venue. She is more adventurous and offers “new and old” to him, which she has planned.
Chapter Seven
“A king is held captive by your tresses.” Vs.5
Men love women’s hair, and women know it.
The man fancies himself a king, enchanted by the beauty of his princess.
“How fair and how pleasant you are,
O love, with your delights!” Vs.6
The woman responds to her beloved’s wooing with happy surrender.
“I am my beloveds’,
And his desire is toward me.” Vs.10
She feels safe and secure in his love for her and enjoys his desire for her.
“Come, my beloved,
Let us go…lodge in the villages.
There I will give you my love.
…pleasant fruits…all manner, new and old,
Which I have laid up for you, my beloved.” Vs.11-13
I think this is equivalent to taking a honeymoon trip or a romantic getaway. They go to a different place, stay over, and concentrate on each other. Sometimes couples need a change of venue. She is more adventurous and offers “new and old” to him, which she has planned.
The Wedding
Song of Solomon
Chapter Eight
“If I should find you outside,
I would kiss you;
I would not be despised.” Vs.1
She wishes she already had freedom to show him affection in public, without attracting comment.
“His left hand is under my head,
And his right hand embraces me.” Vs.3
She is dreaming of being in her lovers’ embrace.
“Do not stir up nor awaken love
Until it pleases.” Vs.4
This points to the consummation yet to be.
True love waits.
“Who is this coming up from the wilderness,
Leaning upon her beloved?” Vs.5
The wedding day is now a reality, and they can walk in public arm in arm.
It is an intimate and typical pose for a couple.
“I awakened you under the apple tree.” Vs.5
That is, ‘began to woo you.’
The context suggests the consummation has now taken place and they are reminiscing about how it all began.
It’s good for couples to remember and talk about early feelings. It helps to rekindle romance.
“For love is strong as death,
Jealousy as cruel as the grave;” Vs. 6
Love is as strong as the most powerful, negative human experience.
Jealousy, in this case, is a positive zeal, that tolerates no rivals.
Marriage is exclusive and permanent.
“Its flames are flames of fire,
A most vehement flame.
Many waters cannot quench love,
Nor can the floods drown it.” Vs.6-7
An eternal flame.
“Then I became in his eyes
As one who found peace.” Vs. 10
The marriage relationship is (or should be) a place of fulfillment.
“The companions listen for your voice—
Let me hear it.” Vs.13
The bridegroom is eager to be alone with his bride. You know how newlyweds are!
“Make haste my beloved.” Vs.14
The desire is mutual.
She invites him to come with her.
Chapter Eight
“If I should find you outside,
I would kiss you;
I would not be despised.” Vs.1
She wishes she already had freedom to show him affection in public, without attracting comment.
“His left hand is under my head,
And his right hand embraces me.” Vs.3
She is dreaming of being in her lovers’ embrace.
“Do not stir up nor awaken love
Until it pleases.” Vs.4
This points to the consummation yet to be.
True love waits.
“Who is this coming up from the wilderness,
Leaning upon her beloved?” Vs.5
The wedding day is now a reality, and they can walk in public arm in arm.
It is an intimate and typical pose for a couple.
“I awakened you under the apple tree.” Vs.5
That is, ‘began to woo you.’
The context suggests the consummation has now taken place and they are reminiscing about how it all began.
It’s good for couples to remember and talk about early feelings. It helps to rekindle romance.
“For love is strong as death,
Jealousy as cruel as the grave;” Vs. 6
Love is as strong as the most powerful, negative human experience.
Jealousy, in this case, is a positive zeal, that tolerates no rivals.
Marriage is exclusive and permanent.
“Its flames are flames of fire,
A most vehement flame.
Many waters cannot quench love,
Nor can the floods drown it.” Vs.6-7
An eternal flame.
“Then I became in his eyes
As one who found peace.” Vs. 10
The marriage relationship is (or should be) a place of fulfillment.
“The companions listen for your voice—
Let me hear it.” Vs.13
The bridegroom is eager to be alone with his bride. You know how newlyweds are!
“Make haste my beloved.” Vs.14
The desire is mutual.
She invites him to come with her.
New Skills
Some New Skills I Would Like to Take the Time to Acquire, if I Had the Time
1.Archery. I would like to hunt small game, like turkeys, although I do love the taste of venison.
2.Scuba Diving. I’d get too panicked snorkeling because I can’t hold my breath for long.
3.Sign Language. When I’ve seen a sermon done in sign language it’s so beautiful.
4.Languages. In particular, Spanish and German.
5.Outdoor Survival course. Just an overnighter where you learn to build a shelter and find food. Then I’d like to come back to indoor plumbing and my duvet.
1.Archery. I would like to hunt small game, like turkeys, although I do love the taste of venison.
2.Scuba Diving. I’d get too panicked snorkeling because I can’t hold my breath for long.
3.Sign Language. When I’ve seen a sermon done in sign language it’s so beautiful.
4.Languages. In particular, Spanish and German.
5.Outdoor Survival course. Just an overnighter where you learn to build a shelter and find food. Then I’d like to come back to indoor plumbing and my duvet.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
The Good Thing About Cancer
The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
I had heard good things about this book. As an oncology nurse, I am a realist. As the wife of a cancer survivor, I’m an optimist. But I also know the reality of how this disease can affect every part of a person’s life.
I was afraid this book was going to be morose and melancholy. But it was surprisingly upbeat and funny.
Randy Pausch gives a lecture, which is basically his memoirs. He knows he has terminal Pancreatic cancer and takes this opportunity to say good bye. He says it was about Achieving Your Childhood Dreams, but it was really about him reliving his life in a form that could be passed on to his young children, who would have very few memories of him. I can relate to that as well, since my father died when I was three. I would love to have had something that he had written, or more pictures, or even videotape so I could hear his voice and see how he carried himself.
Cancer is a horrible illness, but it has one thing over sudden death. It usually gives you time to say what you need to say. That’s the only good thing about cancer. Some people don’t take the opportunity, but it’s there nonetheless.
I’ve seen people die who are still in denial about the severity of their illness. For all their denial, they still die, but with unfinished business. I’ve also seen “good” deaths. Those where they’ve said their goodbyes, given their advice, gotten their affairs in order, left a legacy, and asked their family members to let them go. A good death is as much a blessing as a good life.
This book has made me laugh and cry, and look again at the big picture. I’ve liked working with oncology patients because I’ve always found them to be “real”. They’ve dealt with, or are working through the big issues of life, and what’s bigger than facing your mortality and considering eternity?
In all my years of nursing, I’ve only cried at three deaths, all of them young men. I only now make the connection with my father, who died when he was 28. But I digress.
This book is not so much about dying, although he does talk about it, as it is about living, and appreciating the time you’re given. To use a cliché, “Every day is a gift. That’s why it’s called the Present.”
I had heard good things about this book. As an oncology nurse, I am a realist. As the wife of a cancer survivor, I’m an optimist. But I also know the reality of how this disease can affect every part of a person’s life.
I was afraid this book was going to be morose and melancholy. But it was surprisingly upbeat and funny.
Randy Pausch gives a lecture, which is basically his memoirs. He knows he has terminal Pancreatic cancer and takes this opportunity to say good bye. He says it was about Achieving Your Childhood Dreams, but it was really about him reliving his life in a form that could be passed on to his young children, who would have very few memories of him. I can relate to that as well, since my father died when I was three. I would love to have had something that he had written, or more pictures, or even videotape so I could hear his voice and see how he carried himself.
Cancer is a horrible illness, but it has one thing over sudden death. It usually gives you time to say what you need to say. That’s the only good thing about cancer. Some people don’t take the opportunity, but it’s there nonetheless.
I’ve seen people die who are still in denial about the severity of their illness. For all their denial, they still die, but with unfinished business. I’ve also seen “good” deaths. Those where they’ve said their goodbyes, given their advice, gotten their affairs in order, left a legacy, and asked their family members to let them go. A good death is as much a blessing as a good life.
This book has made me laugh and cry, and look again at the big picture. I’ve liked working with oncology patients because I’ve always found them to be “real”. They’ve dealt with, or are working through the big issues of life, and what’s bigger than facing your mortality and considering eternity?
In all my years of nursing, I’ve only cried at three deaths, all of them young men. I only now make the connection with my father, who died when he was 28. But I digress.
This book is not so much about dying, although he does talk about it, as it is about living, and appreciating the time you’re given. To use a cliché, “Every day is a gift. That’s why it’s called the Present.”
Things I Love To Do With My Family
In no order of preference.
1. Eat. We love to eat, at home, at a friends, or in a restaurant. Our favourite choice for eating out as a family is Memories of Japan, where they cook in front of you at your table.
2. Travel, especially some place tropical.
3. Laugh. I have a funny family.
4. Watch a movie that we all agree on, or at least mostly.
5. Listen to good preaching as a family.
6. Reminisce about things we did together.
7. Talk about current events.
8. Play a game. Learn their strengths and weaknesses.
9. Dance; at a wedding, or even in our livingroom.
10. Camp, except they've outgrown it. I'm the only one who would still want to go.
11. Take a road trip. Our kids are great travellers. I'm usually the one who asks, "Are we there yet?"
12. Be silly. We're good at that. Sometimes we don't know when to stop.
13. Have our family devotions. Discuss the Word of God. I like to hear what they're thinking.
14. Share a good book. Discuss what we liked about it. See how their taste in books differs from or mirrors mine.
15. Complete a project together, even if it's done partly under duress, i.e. spring or fall yardwork, shovelling snow, painting a room, or cleaning out a closet.
16. Celebrate a milestone or achievement, like a birthday, graduation or drivers' license.
17. Shop. Girls love to shop. My husband will tolerate it just so we can all be together.
18. Sing. Some of us are better singers, but I can at least contribute to the harmony.
19. See their creativity come out, in poetry, music, or gifts they make for their friends.
20. Serve God and others. I love to see spiritual growth and maturity in them, as they seek God's will in their lives. I see their devotion and discipline as they are baptized, as I see them read their Bibles, or keep a journal, go on Missions trips or help others, and even when they do unpleasant or hidden tasks (like cleaning the church) without grumbling. I'm pleased (for the most part) with their choices regarding friends, music, reading material, and clothing.
1. Eat. We love to eat, at home, at a friends, or in a restaurant. Our favourite choice for eating out as a family is Memories of Japan, where they cook in front of you at your table.
2. Travel, especially some place tropical.
3. Laugh. I have a funny family.
4. Watch a movie that we all agree on, or at least mostly.
5. Listen to good preaching as a family.
6. Reminisce about things we did together.
7. Talk about current events.
8. Play a game. Learn their strengths and weaknesses.
9. Dance; at a wedding, or even in our livingroom.
10. Camp, except they've outgrown it. I'm the only one who would still want to go.
11. Take a road trip. Our kids are great travellers. I'm usually the one who asks, "Are we there yet?"
12. Be silly. We're good at that. Sometimes we don't know when to stop.
13. Have our family devotions. Discuss the Word of God. I like to hear what they're thinking.
14. Share a good book. Discuss what we liked about it. See how their taste in books differs from or mirrors mine.
15. Complete a project together, even if it's done partly under duress, i.e. spring or fall yardwork, shovelling snow, painting a room, or cleaning out a closet.
16. Celebrate a milestone or achievement, like a birthday, graduation or drivers' license.
17. Shop. Girls love to shop. My husband will tolerate it just so we can all be together.
18. Sing. Some of us are better singers, but I can at least contribute to the harmony.
19. See their creativity come out, in poetry, music, or gifts they make for their friends.
20. Serve God and others. I love to see spiritual growth and maturity in them, as they seek God's will in their lives. I see their devotion and discipline as they are baptized, as I see them read their Bibles, or keep a journal, go on Missions trips or help others, and even when they do unpleasant or hidden tasks (like cleaning the church) without grumbling. I'm pleased (for the most part) with their choices regarding friends, music, reading material, and clothing.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
The Gospel in Miniature
A Tale of Two Sons by John MacArthur
Charles Dickens called the parable of the Prodigal Son "the greatest short story ever written." But it's more than great literature. This parable pulls at our heartstrings because we see ourselves in it.
It's found in Luke 15, the Lost and Found chapter, where Jesus tells three parables to illustrate the theme of heavenly joy over earthly repentance. He begins with the lost sheeep, one in a hundred, or one percent, then the lost coin, one in ten, or ten percent, and finally the lost son, one of two, or fifty percent, but infintely more valuable than a lost sheep or coin.
The details in the story make it come alive. MacArthur is a great communicator and he takes this already amazing story and adds insights, facts and applications that I had never considered before, even though I've heard this passage preached from so many times.
The poignancy demonstrated in the Father's response when his son returns is unforgettable. There are themes of grace, repentance, forgiveness. It's the gospel in miniature. In only 22 verses, there are rich details and powerful drama.
The Father represents Christ. The Prodigal is the wanton sinner who has no love or respect for his Father. He is also a picture of true repentance. The elder brother is as much of a rebel, but he has been hiding behind a mask of hypocrisy. He has no more love or respect for his Father than the Prodigal does. He represnts the Pharisees who had just accused Jesus of eating with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus told the parable in order to answer their charge and reveal the true heart of God.
The parable does not end. It leaves you hanging. Jesus stops before you find out if the elder brother responds to his Father's entreaty. He did this on purpose, in effect leaving the next move to the Pharisees. What would the elder son do with the Father?
MacArthur answers by shocking the reader with the real life answer. The elder brother kills the Father, as the Pharisees killed Christ.
This was an excellent Bible study. It was very moving and I highly recommend it.
Charles Dickens called the parable of the Prodigal Son "the greatest short story ever written." But it's more than great literature. This parable pulls at our heartstrings because we see ourselves in it.
It's found in Luke 15, the Lost and Found chapter, where Jesus tells three parables to illustrate the theme of heavenly joy over earthly repentance. He begins with the lost sheeep, one in a hundred, or one percent, then the lost coin, one in ten, or ten percent, and finally the lost son, one of two, or fifty percent, but infintely more valuable than a lost sheep or coin.
The details in the story make it come alive. MacArthur is a great communicator and he takes this already amazing story and adds insights, facts and applications that I had never considered before, even though I've heard this passage preached from so many times.
The poignancy demonstrated in the Father's response when his son returns is unforgettable. There are themes of grace, repentance, forgiveness. It's the gospel in miniature. In only 22 verses, there are rich details and powerful drama.
The Father represents Christ. The Prodigal is the wanton sinner who has no love or respect for his Father. He is also a picture of true repentance. The elder brother is as much of a rebel, but he has been hiding behind a mask of hypocrisy. He has no more love or respect for his Father than the Prodigal does. He represnts the Pharisees who had just accused Jesus of eating with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus told the parable in order to answer their charge and reveal the true heart of God.
The parable does not end. It leaves you hanging. Jesus stops before you find out if the elder brother responds to his Father's entreaty. He did this on purpose, in effect leaving the next move to the Pharisees. What would the elder son do with the Father?
MacArthur answers by shocking the reader with the real life answer. The elder brother kills the Father, as the Pharisees killed Christ.
This was an excellent Bible study. It was very moving and I highly recommend it.
Monday, December 29, 2008
My 2008 Reading List
This has been a good year. I’ve read 75 books, listed below. I have reviews for all of them on my Chapters profile (http://community.indigo.ca/profile/piafinn/28112.html). My favourite book of the year was By Reason of Insanity by Randy Singer. It’s a Christian legal thriller and had at least five twists that made me gasp. Also, you can tell I discovered Nicholas Sparks this year since I read ten of his books. My goal for 2009 is to read 75 books again.
1. The Note by Angela Hunt
2. Dear John by Nicholas Sparks
3. Yucatan Deep by Tom Morrisey
4. My Soul to Keep by Davis Bunn
5. The Choice by Nicholas Sparks
6. A Bend in the Road by Nicholas Sparks
7. The Guardian by Nicholas Sparks
8. The Lifeguard by James Patterson
9. Protect and Defend by Vince Flynn
10. Sam’s Letters to Jennifer by James Patterson
11. Winter Fire by William Trotter
12. Wrecker’s Key by Christine Kling
13. Transfer of Power by Vince Flynn
14. The High Calling by Gilbert Morris
15. The Miracle by Gilbert Morris
16. The Courtship by Gilbert Morris
17. Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson
18. A Proper Pursuit by Lynn Austin
19. The Beach House by James Patterson
20. The Deposition by Joe Hilley
21. Whose War Is It? By J.L. Granatstein
22. A Woman’s Place by Lynn Austin
23. Eve’s Daughters by Lynn Austin
24. The Rescue by Nicholas Sparks
25. Nights in Rodanthe by Nicholas Sparks
26. The Interpreter of Silences by Jean McNeil
27. Hidden Places by Lynn Austin
28. True Believer by Nicholas Sparks
29. At First Sight by Nicholas Sparks
30. Forevermore by Cathy Marie Hake
31. Healing Promises by Amy Wallace
32. By Reason of Insanity by Randy Singer
33. A Lady of High Regard by Tracie Peterson
34. The Second Thief by Travis Thrasher
35. No One Cares What You Had for Lunch by Margaret Mason
36. Black Sea Affair by Don Brown
37. The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks
38. Three Roads Home by Travis Thrasher
39. The Last Time They Met by Anita Shreve
40. Wagered Heart by Robin Lee Hatcher
41. To the Death by Patrick Robinson
42. The Whole Truth by James Scott Bell
43. Deep in the Heart of Trouble by Deeanne Gist
44. Spies by Michael Frayn
45. Timing is Everything by Tracey V. Bateman
46. Sky Blue by Travis Thrasher
47. Best Laid Plans by Terry Fallis
48. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
49. Reason to Believe by R.C. Sproule
50. Fancy Pants by Cathy Marie Hake
51. Lets Roll! by Lisa Beamer
52. Resistance by Anita Shreve
53. All She Ever Wanted by Lynn Austin
54. Faithful God by Sinclair Ferguson
55. Lucky by Alice Sebold
56. Wind River by Tom Morrisey
57. Writing the Christian Romance by Gail Gaymer Martin
58. The Dowry of Miss Lydia Clark by Lawana Blackwell
59. Man Overboard! By Sinclair Ferguson
60. Steal Away by Linda Hall
61. The Forgotten War by Mart Laar
62. The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks
63. The Memoir Club by Laura Kalpakian
64. Whirlwind by Cathy Marie Hake
65. A Lady of Hidden Intent by Tracie Peterson
66. The Pilot’s Wife by Anita Shreve
67. Where or When by Anita Shreve
68. Rekindled by Tamera Alexander
69. Three Day Road by Joseph Boyden
70. All the Tea in China by Jane Orcutt
71. The Yada Yada Prayer Group by Neta Jackson
72. Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
73. From a Distance by Tamera Alexander
74. A Lady of Secret Devotion by Tracie Peterson
75. A Tale of Two Sons by John MacArthur
1. The Note by Angela Hunt
2. Dear John by Nicholas Sparks
3. Yucatan Deep by Tom Morrisey
4. My Soul to Keep by Davis Bunn
5. The Choice by Nicholas Sparks
6. A Bend in the Road by Nicholas Sparks
7. The Guardian by Nicholas Sparks
8. The Lifeguard by James Patterson
9. Protect and Defend by Vince Flynn
10. Sam’s Letters to Jennifer by James Patterson
11. Winter Fire by William Trotter
12. Wrecker’s Key by Christine Kling
13. Transfer of Power by Vince Flynn
14. The High Calling by Gilbert Morris
15. The Miracle by Gilbert Morris
16. The Courtship by Gilbert Morris
17. Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson
18. A Proper Pursuit by Lynn Austin
19. The Beach House by James Patterson
20. The Deposition by Joe Hilley
21. Whose War Is It? By J.L. Granatstein
22. A Woman’s Place by Lynn Austin
23. Eve’s Daughters by Lynn Austin
24. The Rescue by Nicholas Sparks
25. Nights in Rodanthe by Nicholas Sparks
26. The Interpreter of Silences by Jean McNeil
27. Hidden Places by Lynn Austin
28. True Believer by Nicholas Sparks
29. At First Sight by Nicholas Sparks
30. Forevermore by Cathy Marie Hake
31. Healing Promises by Amy Wallace
32. By Reason of Insanity by Randy Singer
33. A Lady of High Regard by Tracie Peterson
34. The Second Thief by Travis Thrasher
35. No One Cares What You Had for Lunch by Margaret Mason
36. Black Sea Affair by Don Brown
37. The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks
38. Three Roads Home by Travis Thrasher
39. The Last Time They Met by Anita Shreve
40. Wagered Heart by Robin Lee Hatcher
41. To the Death by Patrick Robinson
42. The Whole Truth by James Scott Bell
43. Deep in the Heart of Trouble by Deeanne Gist
44. Spies by Michael Frayn
45. Timing is Everything by Tracey V. Bateman
46. Sky Blue by Travis Thrasher
47. Best Laid Plans by Terry Fallis
48. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
49. Reason to Believe by R.C. Sproule
50. Fancy Pants by Cathy Marie Hake
51. Lets Roll! by Lisa Beamer
52. Resistance by Anita Shreve
53. All She Ever Wanted by Lynn Austin
54. Faithful God by Sinclair Ferguson
55. Lucky by Alice Sebold
56. Wind River by Tom Morrisey
57. Writing the Christian Romance by Gail Gaymer Martin
58. The Dowry of Miss Lydia Clark by Lawana Blackwell
59. Man Overboard! By Sinclair Ferguson
60. Steal Away by Linda Hall
61. The Forgotten War by Mart Laar
62. The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks
63. The Memoir Club by Laura Kalpakian
64. Whirlwind by Cathy Marie Hake
65. A Lady of Hidden Intent by Tracie Peterson
66. The Pilot’s Wife by Anita Shreve
67. Where or When by Anita Shreve
68. Rekindled by Tamera Alexander
69. Three Day Road by Joseph Boyden
70. All the Tea in China by Jane Orcutt
71. The Yada Yada Prayer Group by Neta Jackson
72. Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
73. From a Distance by Tamera Alexander
74. A Lady of Secret Devotion by Tracie Peterson
75. A Tale of Two Sons by John MacArthur
Sunday, December 28, 2008
More Food?
Dec. 28, 2008
Outside my window...the rain has washed away some of the snow, but the wind was absolutely howling at 80 km/h.
I am thinking...that I've got to get more self control. I bought twelve more books at the bankruptcy sale, five of which were free, but still...I need to stop. I need help.
I am thankful for...our family. Our gatherings are pleasant, and the food is tasty. Compared to some families, we're okay. We also got to see one of my husbands' cousins who was visiting this week, from Florida. Also, I helped my daughter draft her letter for Scotland. She has six weeks to gather her support. It seems a little tight for time. There are about 30 of them going to evangelize at the university of Edinborough.
From the kitchen...lasagna, curried chicken, jerk chicken, rice and peas, salad, bread, lemon pie, apple-berry crumble with ice cream.
I am wearing...black dress pants and blouse, and a red sweater.
I am reading...The Blogging Church: Sharing the story of your church through blogs. I thing blogging is a great option, especially for small churches like ours, who don't have a huge budget. Added to our website, it's a great way to communicate. This modern generation wants two-way conversation.
I am hoping...that we can head someplace hot this winter. I just bought a new bathing suit and would like to decrease my pallor factor and increase my tannage factor.
I am hearing...Liverpool beat Newcastle 5 to 1. My husband is happy, since he's a Liverpool fan.
Around the house...I got my Christmas decorations put away and my bookshelves up. I just need a few more magazine racks from IKEA to store some paperwork.
One of my favourite things...a clean and tidy house. I threw out so many old magazines and cassette tapes. It was hard for me to throw out the cassettes. I knew we couldn't listen to them anymore, but I still looked at each one with nostalgia before I placed them in the garbage. There were preaching tapes, some from Pastors now in glory, music from when our daughters were little, music from my teen years, and conferences on home schooling from when I was considering that. It's hard to part with, but time marches on. I hope I don't regret this decision.
A few plans for the week...and eye appointment tomorrow morning, work two nights, then off for six. Nice. New Years' eve supper and service at church on Wednesday. Write. Shop. Dinner party with four other Christian couples on Saturday.
Outside my window...the rain has washed away some of the snow, but the wind was absolutely howling at 80 km/h.
I am thinking...that I've got to get more self control. I bought twelve more books at the bankruptcy sale, five of which were free, but still...I need to stop. I need help.
I am thankful for...our family. Our gatherings are pleasant, and the food is tasty. Compared to some families, we're okay. We also got to see one of my husbands' cousins who was visiting this week, from Florida. Also, I helped my daughter draft her letter for Scotland. She has six weeks to gather her support. It seems a little tight for time. There are about 30 of them going to evangelize at the university of Edinborough.
From the kitchen...lasagna, curried chicken, jerk chicken, rice and peas, salad, bread, lemon pie, apple-berry crumble with ice cream.
I am wearing...black dress pants and blouse, and a red sweater.
I am reading...The Blogging Church: Sharing the story of your church through blogs. I thing blogging is a great option, especially for small churches like ours, who don't have a huge budget. Added to our website, it's a great way to communicate. This modern generation wants two-way conversation.
I am hoping...that we can head someplace hot this winter. I just bought a new bathing suit and would like to decrease my pallor factor and increase my tannage factor.
I am hearing...Liverpool beat Newcastle 5 to 1. My husband is happy, since he's a Liverpool fan.
Around the house...I got my Christmas decorations put away and my bookshelves up. I just need a few more magazine racks from IKEA to store some paperwork.
One of my favourite things...a clean and tidy house. I threw out so many old magazines and cassette tapes. It was hard for me to throw out the cassettes. I knew we couldn't listen to them anymore, but I still looked at each one with nostalgia before I placed them in the garbage. There were preaching tapes, some from Pastors now in glory, music from when our daughters were little, music from my teen years, and conferences on home schooling from when I was considering that. It's hard to part with, but time marches on. I hope I don't regret this decision.
A few plans for the week...and eye appointment tomorrow morning, work two nights, then off for six. Nice. New Years' eve supper and service at church on Wednesday. Write. Shop. Dinner party with four other Christian couples on Saturday.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Finnish Christmas
Dec. 24, 2008
Outside my window...a white Christmas. That's good, I guess, although I could handle lying on a beach just as well.
I am thinking...that the fact that my mom has started having chest pain, and having it frequently, and at rest, concerns me more than I let on. She has an appointment with a cardiologist mid-January. I hope nothing happens before that.
I am thankful...that my husband is so easy-going. Over the years we've changed so that all of our gifts are opened on Christmas eve, and none on Christmas morning. I would understand if he was offended, but he doesn't seem to be. One more reason to love him.
From the kitchen...ham, roast beef and gravy, mashed potatoes, corn, carrots in white sauce, turnip casserole, Finnish Christmas desserts.
I am wearing... a new teal party dress. It makes my eyes look the same colour.
I am reading...A Tale of Two Sons by John MacArthur about the Parable of the Prodigal Son. It's amazing!
I am hoping...that we can get my new bookshelves up before the end of the week. I want to get organized while I'm off work.
I am hearing...Christmas music.
Around the house...my sister's family is over to celebrate the Finnish Christmas with us. I could live without the gift exchange for adults. None of us really needs anything. They are token gifts and quite unnecessary. I would be happy to buy just for the kids and enjoy the spiritual aspect of the holiday.
One of my favourite things...getting rid of debts. Our main mortgage is paid off next month. The rest of our debt-load is manageable and should still allow for vacations. When we first bought our house and money was tight, we used to joke when we deposited our mortgage cheque, "Well, we have the house for another two weeks." That's as far as we could see. Now, seventeen years later, it's paid. Praise God. It's just a little bungalow in Toronto, but it's ours, and it's home.
Some plans for the week...a day to recover tomorrow. Jamaican Christmas on Boxing Day. Visiting friends.
Outside my window...a white Christmas. That's good, I guess, although I could handle lying on a beach just as well.
I am thinking...that the fact that my mom has started having chest pain, and having it frequently, and at rest, concerns me more than I let on. She has an appointment with a cardiologist mid-January. I hope nothing happens before that.
I am thankful...that my husband is so easy-going. Over the years we've changed so that all of our gifts are opened on Christmas eve, and none on Christmas morning. I would understand if he was offended, but he doesn't seem to be. One more reason to love him.
From the kitchen...ham, roast beef and gravy, mashed potatoes, corn, carrots in white sauce, turnip casserole, Finnish Christmas desserts.
I am wearing... a new teal party dress. It makes my eyes look the same colour.
I am reading...A Tale of Two Sons by John MacArthur about the Parable of the Prodigal Son. It's amazing!
I am hoping...that we can get my new bookshelves up before the end of the week. I want to get organized while I'm off work.
I am hearing...Christmas music.
Around the house...my sister's family is over to celebrate the Finnish Christmas with us. I could live without the gift exchange for adults. None of us really needs anything. They are token gifts and quite unnecessary. I would be happy to buy just for the kids and enjoy the spiritual aspect of the holiday.
One of my favourite things...getting rid of debts. Our main mortgage is paid off next month. The rest of our debt-load is manageable and should still allow for vacations. When we first bought our house and money was tight, we used to joke when we deposited our mortgage cheque, "Well, we have the house for another two weeks." That's as far as we could see. Now, seventeen years later, it's paid. Praise God. It's just a little bungalow in Toronto, but it's ours, and it's home.
Some plans for the week...a day to recover tomorrow. Jamaican Christmas on Boxing Day. Visiting friends.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Countdown
December 23, 2008
Outside my window...a cold, snowy day. We've used our new snowblower. For now, it's still as exciting as a new toy at Christmas, but I'm sure that will pass.
I am thinking...that I can't wait to read all my new books.
I am thankful...that our Muslim neighbours only eat Halal meats. Every Christmas when he gets a free turkey from work, he gives it to us. If we have no need of it, we pass it on to someone in our church.
From the kitchen...chicken souvlaki, fries and salad. Amish Friendship muffins.
I am wearing...burgundy v-neck top, navy lulu lemon pants.
I am reading...A Lady of Secret Devotion by Tracie Peterson.
I am hoping...to have a quiet night at work tonight.
I am hearing...the sounds of silence while most of my patients are asleep. I'm expecting a patient from emerg soon, though.
Around the house...everyone's home for Christmas. We baked shortbread cookies. It's the only thing I bake at Christmas.
One of my favourite things...book sales. I got so much loot this week at the bankruptcy sale.
Some plans for the week...work two nights. Celebrate Finnish Christmas (Joulu) on the 24th at our house. Jamaican Christmas on the 26th at my husband's cousins' house.
Outside my window...a cold, snowy day. We've used our new snowblower. For now, it's still as exciting as a new toy at Christmas, but I'm sure that will pass.
I am thinking...that I can't wait to read all my new books.
I am thankful...that our Muslim neighbours only eat Halal meats. Every Christmas when he gets a free turkey from work, he gives it to us. If we have no need of it, we pass it on to someone in our church.
From the kitchen...chicken souvlaki, fries and salad. Amish Friendship muffins.
I am wearing...burgundy v-neck top, navy lulu lemon pants.
I am reading...A Lady of Secret Devotion by Tracie Peterson.
I am hoping...to have a quiet night at work tonight.
I am hearing...the sounds of silence while most of my patients are asleep. I'm expecting a patient from emerg soon, though.
Around the house...everyone's home for Christmas. We baked shortbread cookies. It's the only thing I bake at Christmas.
One of my favourite things...book sales. I got so much loot this week at the bankruptcy sale.
Some plans for the week...work two nights. Celebrate Finnish Christmas (Joulu) on the 24th at our house. Jamaican Christmas on the 26th at my husband's cousins' house.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Timeline--1969
We bought our house. We lived there all through my school years so I never had the stress of changing schools. It cost us $10,500.00 which was less than the down payment on our mortgage, but those were different days, and it wasn’t much of a house. (See Singing the Poor Girl Blues in Memoirs). Since my mom’s English was limited, as were her life skills regarding purchasing a house, I recall going house-hunting with her while my sister was in school. The Finnish Consulate, himself, Mauno Kaihla, took us around. When I look back on that, I think that was very nice of him. I always had an admiration for him. The nursing home section of the Finnish Rest Home was named after him. The unfortunate thing was that years later, he died in hospital, waiting for placement. He couldn’t get to the top of the list any faster even though it was named for him. Ironic, eh?
I started school. They didn't have Junior Kindergarten at my school, so I was five. I went to Cody Public School. It was a beautiful old building on top of the hill. It was built in 1919. Each room had a large walk-in closet with two doorways, which they quaintly referred to as a cloakroom. A few years back the school was demolished to make way for condominiums. What a sad thing. So much history, and it had beautiful dark wood railings on the stairs. I hope those were salvaged. It makes me sad that I can’t go back there to walk on the grounds and reminisce. It’s like it was a dream to me.
My first day of school my mom came with me, and I didn’t leave her side for a moment. The next day, my sister was tasked with taking me. I cried, screamed, and fought. She dragged me up the hill in front of our house towards the school, as my mom watched from the window and cried. Although I’m sure I want’ amused by it at the time, I smile now as I remember being dragged that way for a few days until I submitted, passive-aggressively, to go to this place full of strangers.
I liked my teacher, Mrs. McDonaugh. She had black hair and was very kind. She used to say that if we were naughty, she would be very cross. I didn’t know what that meant, but I knew it wasn’t good. I wanted her to like me. Once, I mistakenly called her Mom, which showed the affection I felt for her.
At school I was a real rule follower. It carried over to home. I would wake my mom up in the middle of the night. When she’d roll over and wake up, I’d say, “May I please go to the bathroom?” Eventually, I stopped asking permission at home.
One thing I didn’t mind about school was the toys. They had a whole toy kitchen with dishes and a stove and ironing board, and dolls. I loved it. We had so few toys at home.
My best friend in my early years was Sherri. She was Italian and Catholic. She would talk about going to her first communion. She showed me pictures of herself in a fancy white dress and gloves. I had no idea what she was talking about.
She also had amazing toys. I loved playing at her house. She had many dolls with real baby clothes that her mom washed in Ivory Snow. She had a buggy and crib with beautiful blankets for her dolls. She was fastidious with her belongings. I could never have her over to play at my house because I had no toys, but I appreciated that she shared hers. She also had the best school supplies at the beginning of each year, including a 64 pack of crayons, with a sharpener built-in. I had an 8-pack, maybe twelve, and not much else. It was hard not to be envious.
I had no paper to write on to practice my letters. I dreamed of having a blackboard like at school. Instead, I took the one page I had from school and glued it on the wall of my room. Yes, I glued it, so it would be like writing on a blackboard. When I got to the edge of the page, I just continued with my crayon on the wall. We eventually wall-papered over that, years later, but my early homework was up there for years. Years later, I saw a commercial where a child was writing on a refrigerator. I said to my mom, “Who would let their kid write on the fridge?” She said, “I seem to remember someone who wrote on the wall.”
I started school. They didn't have Junior Kindergarten at my school, so I was five. I went to Cody Public School. It was a beautiful old building on top of the hill. It was built in 1919. Each room had a large walk-in closet with two doorways, which they quaintly referred to as a cloakroom. A few years back the school was demolished to make way for condominiums. What a sad thing. So much history, and it had beautiful dark wood railings on the stairs. I hope those were salvaged. It makes me sad that I can’t go back there to walk on the grounds and reminisce. It’s like it was a dream to me.
My first day of school my mom came with me, and I didn’t leave her side for a moment. The next day, my sister was tasked with taking me. I cried, screamed, and fought. She dragged me up the hill in front of our house towards the school, as my mom watched from the window and cried. Although I’m sure I want’ amused by it at the time, I smile now as I remember being dragged that way for a few days until I submitted, passive-aggressively, to go to this place full of strangers.
I liked my teacher, Mrs. McDonaugh. She had black hair and was very kind. She used to say that if we were naughty, she would be very cross. I didn’t know what that meant, but I knew it wasn’t good. I wanted her to like me. Once, I mistakenly called her Mom, which showed the affection I felt for her.
At school I was a real rule follower. It carried over to home. I would wake my mom up in the middle of the night. When she’d roll over and wake up, I’d say, “May I please go to the bathroom?” Eventually, I stopped asking permission at home.
One thing I didn’t mind about school was the toys. They had a whole toy kitchen with dishes and a stove and ironing board, and dolls. I loved it. We had so few toys at home.
My best friend in my early years was Sherri. She was Italian and Catholic. She would talk about going to her first communion. She showed me pictures of herself in a fancy white dress and gloves. I had no idea what she was talking about.
She also had amazing toys. I loved playing at her house. She had many dolls with real baby clothes that her mom washed in Ivory Snow. She had a buggy and crib with beautiful blankets for her dolls. She was fastidious with her belongings. I could never have her over to play at my house because I had no toys, but I appreciated that she shared hers. She also had the best school supplies at the beginning of each year, including a 64 pack of crayons, with a sharpener built-in. I had an 8-pack, maybe twelve, and not much else. It was hard not to be envious.
I had no paper to write on to practice my letters. I dreamed of having a blackboard like at school. Instead, I took the one page I had from school and glued it on the wall of my room. Yes, I glued it, so it would be like writing on a blackboard. When I got to the edge of the page, I just continued with my crayon on the wall. We eventually wall-papered over that, years later, but my early homework was up there for years. Years later, I saw a commercial where a child was writing on a refrigerator. I said to my mom, “Who would let their kid write on the fridge?” She said, “I seem to remember someone who wrote on the wall.”
Timeline--1968
We went to Finland in the summer. (See My Mother’s Sacrifice in Memoirs). Although I liked a lot of things about Finland, I already thought of Canada as my home. My Finnish cousins said that when I was there I kept saying, “I want to play in English.”
Timeline--1967
I have assorted vignette-type flashback memories of life on our farm before my Dad died on October 31, 1967 after a motor vehicle accident at work. (See Fathers and Daughters, and My Father’s Death in Memoirs).
Following his death, we sold the farm and lived with my mother’s brother and his family for a few months. I think this was also a small apartment with one or two bedrooms. Then we lived on our own in a tiny apartment on the second floor of a house two doors down from the Finnish Lutheran church. It had a bedroom, hallway, a tiny kitchen, and bathroom that we shared with another Finnish family on the same floor.
I was beginning to learn English at the same time as my mom, by watching Captain Kangaroo, Mr. Dress-Up, and the Friendly Giant. Over time, my mother would speak only Finnish to us, so we’d retain it, and we’d answer in English, so she’d learn it. It’s still that way, unless I need to tell her a secret.
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