tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153596422011-09-02T17:53:24.150-04:00Just a place for me to write down some thoughts and maybe get some feedback... maybe not.will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.comBlogger7301100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-87700172170129866122011-09-02T17:53:00.001-04:002011-09-02T17:53:24.157-04:00

Hi.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-25230212211286634722008-12-19T10:07:00.001-05:002008-12-19T10:09:54.866-05:00

Did you find me yet?HINT: Check out this week's comments at the revgalblogpals' Friday Five.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-26062521093968974162008-12-11T19:47:00.003-05:002008-12-11T19:59:16.798-05:00

Life is good, please don't get me wrong... BUT my brain is a bit overloaded. Here is an example of a typical thread of thought... sometimes between 2-4am:I need to go to visit A at the hospital and should do that before going to COM meeting I need to look over my faith statement for that so I don't get surprised by questions on it but really even if I answer poorly I will pass but I don't want to

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-14950913904609239002008-11-22T20:14:00.002-05:002008-11-22T20:41:14.807-05:00

As I walk through the final steps towards a new call there is a LOT on my mind. A LOT.I have been trying to get it all on paper because when there is a lot swirling in my brain it usually helps to get it down on paper and organize it. Sometimes I even break down the 'to-do' list into the days they have to happen. There is actually too much to even get it all down on paper.Stunning.Just about

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-91842849088975334512008-11-21T06:45:00.004-05:002008-11-21T06:52:14.686-05:00

Songbird writes:In a minor domestic crisis, my food processor, or more precisely the part you use for almost everything for which I use a food processor, picked the eve of the festive season of the year to give up the ghost. A crack in the lid expanded such that a batch of squash soup had to be liberated via that column shaped thing that sticks up on top.Can you tell this is not my area of

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-7476593272365606792008-11-19T17:00:00.001-05:002008-11-19T04:51:44.277-05:00

Friends.... a fairly large, fully staffed, very healthy congregation is about to call their next Head of Staff.And it is I.This means I get to:Use the lessons I have learned here to continue to thrive in ministry and more importantly equip others to thrive as well,Own a home,Move out of the fishbowl life that is living on the property of the church in the manse,Be fully involved in the life of

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-66135810623378394062008-11-17T15:41:00.002-05:002008-11-17T15:43:24.365-05:00

When I was a kid I totally thought this was going to be me... except for the Japan part.Maybe it's a sign.The committee meets tomorrow night. I'll let you know soon after I do. Probably in the Twitter feeds below before I can get to a post.Thank you all for your prayers.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-9471321716505126232008-11-08T21:48:00.000-05:002008-11-09T21:44:43.428-05:00

From a wedding meditation: The passage in Matthew talks about using our hearts and our minds and our souls to love as God calls us to love. It is the ultimate back up plan, because married life is committed love, it is wonderful love - it is not always easy love. The passage says heart, soul and mind; I am here to tell you that all three aren’t always on board at the same time.That is why the

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-45825546962772069322008-11-08T07:40:00.002-05:002008-11-08T07:47:11.406-05:00

On Thursday my friend took his 10 month old to a routine pediatrician's visit. 24 hours later they were checked into the pediatric cardiology unit at the hospital with a son whose heart is badly damaged and needs a transplant.Very fast and very scary. He is also in between calls - has left one church and has not yet started at the next. They are in the process of moving into a rental.They have a

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-42042885386522224292008-11-06T09:52:00.001-05:002008-11-06T09:54:38.968-05:00

This is not why I voted for him, but...How cool is THAT?!

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-68642197015270632832008-11-05T09:29:00.003-05:002008-11-05T09:39:04.718-05:00

The speech from last night. Thanks to MSNBC.Hello, Chicago.If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.It's the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-23543083780981329592008-11-02T17:47:00.003-05:002008-11-02T18:01:20.815-05:00

I realize posts to this blog have been few and far between. I miss you all.Full time parenting and full time working have put a new time management spin on my life. Although, if you know who I am in 'real life' and we're friends on Facebook then you know I am able to fit in umpteen status updates.The real time vaccuum is the job search. It's a weird process because I have spent the better part of

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-18173536908528829082008-10-30T23:18:00.003-04:002008-10-30T23:32:52.728-04:00

Some loser did the Friday Five over at the revgalblogpals this week:1) Your work day is done and the brain is fried, what do you do? Facebook or other ways of touching base with friends. Also, I have re-engaged in a knitting project and that has been fun.2) Your work week is done and the brain is fried (for some Friday, others Sunday afternoon), what do you do?Hopefully nap, but if not playing

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-34158200082071468812008-10-15T18:21:00.003-04:002008-10-15T18:42:22.420-04:00

In seemingly long gone seminary days 3 couples headed over to someone else's house over Labor Day Weekend while the owners of the home were away on a real vacation. They pigged out on appetizers from the freezer section, embarrassed themselves by making stupid comments to the teenage ice cream truck driver ("Stay cool" said the overweight, middle aged woman in the bikini top), left weird things

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-31970381084538870622008-10-01T09:54:00.002-04:002008-10-01T10:01:57.330-04:00

In mid-March of this year I was phone interviewed by a committee looking for their next Head of Staff. I was heavily medicated thanks to the flu and at my own emotional ground zero. I did perhaps the worst phone interview ever.One of the questions was what books am I currently reading. I could come up with nothing. I said, "You mean besides Parenting magazine?" Even though at the time I was

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-47069707016265907772008-09-23T14:16:00.000-04:002008-09-23T14:18:25.586-04:00

Oh. My. Gawd.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-86328215341454894102008-09-18T13:02:00.003-04:002008-09-18T13:27:28.259-04:00

When I arrived here at the country church that considers itself to have the ability to make friends (our motto is similar to that convoluted sentence and I don't want it to show up on a google search) it soon became apparant that the congregation was indeed friendly... IF you walked through its doors. They were not considered to be so friendly by our immediate neighbors. It seems that some of our

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-10296055443948498432008-09-15T12:32:00.002-04:002008-09-15T12:47:20.144-04:00

I went to Wendy's for a post-gym snack and their usual daytime cashier was there. His name is Bill and he is nice, efficient, and patient (I have been there with a screaming child). He is also mentally challenged.Today he gave me my change and for some inexplicable reason I didn't think the change was right even after running it through my head a few more times and so in order to take the honest

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-22720083358763834352008-09-04T08:22:00.003-04:002008-09-04T08:46:16.826-04:00

In the denomination I currently serve there is an annual nominating process for leaders of the church. There is a rotating nominating committee that gathers to discern who the leaders in the congregation are, invites those leaders to serve and then brings those nominees to the congregation for them to formally vote.I sit in on these meetings but tend not to say too much. I guide the discernment

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-39330225026056162712008-08-28T11:54:00.002-04:002008-08-28T12:03:58.375-04:00

"Mommy, we stop?""Yes, Aunt Mary needs to get a ticket." (to enter the parking lot)"Was she going too fast?"Guess who was in the car with Mommy when she received her speeding ticket?

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-67401677177582594262008-08-27T18:04:00.002-04:002008-08-27T18:05:10.297-04:00

"Mommy pushed me off the swing and then Marfa saved me." - The Boy.I will let you fill in the story around that one.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-63496016589269728062008-08-18T15:17:00.003-04:002008-08-18T15:23:25.846-04:00

Dog to vetBoy and dog to parentsVisitationBeer with friendFuneral prepPackingSleepfuneralcommittalluncheoncomplete packingboy and self to airportland in NE statedrive to 2nd NE stateLOBSTER!Oh yes... it is going to happen. And maybe even more than once.C-ya in a week!

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-85454411184990760372008-08-18T03:13:00.002-04:002008-08-18T03:20:23.863-04:00

Hey all!Just thought I'd share with my homies that TOW1 has been to church two Sundays in a row now. Last week was VBS, this week was a baptism. And THIS week they actually came in late while I was doing announcements so the entire congregation was able to turn as one, wide-eyed to see how I was handling it.I handled it fine. Whatever.I really have no ill-will there any more, mainly apathy with a

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-81206753273267768652008-08-12T16:50:00.003-04:002008-08-12T17:10:00.645-04:00

As I have alluded to in earlier posts I am working on being a little more present with The Boy. Currently he will tell me to come sit on the couch and I will usually respond with, "just one minute." There will be a pause and he will then say, "Here's a spot for you!"You can't turn that down, you just can't - and I won't. So I sit and cherish that moment knowing it will be all too soon when I am

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-4122711712007943322008-08-09T04:56:00.002-04:002008-08-09T04:59:22.285-04:00

For me personally, the saddest thing about the John Edwards affair is that it never occurred to me that he wasn't cheating. I saw the news today and I thought, "well duh..."

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-88470955088949258132008-08-08T10:55:00.005-04:002008-08-08T11:13:54.535-04:00

1. What is your sweetest summer memory from childhood? Did it involve watermelon or hand cranked ice cream? Or perhaps a teen summer romance. Which stands out for you? Well there were a few summers of Zen where my family could afford the beach club and those memories are awesome! I would ride my bike in the morning for swim team practice and then hang out for the rest of the day alternating

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-15149159231581671672008-08-06T21:55:00.001-04:002008-08-06T21:58:05.777-04:00

The Girlfriend, The Boy, The Nephew

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-11509560392472727572008-08-04T15:55:00.002-04:002008-08-04T16:01:04.898-04:00

So the nephew leaves tomorrow and there will be okay things about that: back to the rhythmn of things, fattening items I never buy will not be in my home, smaller grocery and gas bill... but The Boy and I are going to be bummed; although clearly we will not be as bummed as he will be and his girlfriend.I liked having someone else here who speaks above 4 year old level (albeit mumbly). I like

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-1227087957438788862008-08-03T13:19:00.004-04:002008-08-03T13:28:59.985-04:00

Actual conversation with my 16 year old nephew who had plugged his iPod into my car.Him: Aunt Will Smama! You'll know this one since it's from your era and all.Me: My era? Would that be the paleozoic?Him: You know what I mean, it's a golden oldie or whatever.Me: ---deep sigh---Styx Mr. Roboto begins to play...Me: Ah yes, I remember the days of yore when we really had to crank the victrola in

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-27711636804377335322008-08-01T09:58:00.003-04:002008-08-01T10:17:03.524-04:00

1) How do you amuse yourself when road construction blocks your travel?First, by calming myself down. If the traffic is VERY stopped then I have actually gotten out and hung out with the other folks that ventured out of their cars. If stop and go then I try to figure out the next available option around the traffic.2) Have you ever locked yourself out of your house? (And do you keep an extra key

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-37066072325699002732008-07-31T09:03:00.004-04:002008-07-31T09:33:34.408-04:00

I would like to say I reject stereotypes. I think most conscientious, free-thinking adults would say they do the same. But those same conscientious, free-thinking adults would also have to admit that sometimes it seems that stereotypes are stereotypes for a reason... which is a cliche, not a stereotype.Gender roles are a particularly stereotype-laden field of play. Once you add partnership,

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-33144213220466559612008-07-29T12:14:00.003-04:002008-07-29T12:25:02.594-04:00

My 16 year old nephew is here. I know this because large quantities of food have gone missing and dvd's are being viewed at really random times. Those of you with teenages may be thinking, "tell me about it." We are having a good visit, don't get me wrong, but his girlfriend lives here (he lives in Florida) so I am really not the main attraction.Once you have a child it seems like everyone who

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-55608867380568296372008-07-26T08:28:00.002-04:002008-07-26T08:32:23.319-04:00

My five second thought process when I saw this sign at the rollercoaster:Wow... that's more than a little insulting, oh wait... I'm riding by myself, they don't care if I'm divorced (laugh at loud) that'll blog.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-37415453545052461242008-07-24T13:18:00.003-04:002008-07-24T15:26:29.390-04:00

'Catching up' is my theme this week as I catch up with my sleep, nephew, and you.a) Catching up on sleep...Last Friday The Boy came home asleep in the car. There was no waking him up... until 2am when he woke up on his own, came into my room and said, "Mom! Mom! I want to be wake up!" There was no convincing him otherwise. He's three and 1/2 and he had 9 hours of sleep.My Mom had stayed over

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-19045551842861878762008-07-19T18:58:00.003-04:002008-07-19T19:00:13.628-04:00

I am home and reasonably sound. The ride was 52 miles and I did a slow grind of it over 5 hours. The last hour especially was brutal. "Scorching" was the word I heard a lot.My knees are sore and my face remains hot to the touch and I continue to drink water and yet still be thirsty. These are all things that will pass soon enough.I will post a more detailed account later in the week but wanted to

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-61738088161929068332008-07-18T12:29:00.002-04:002008-07-18T12:33:50.308-04:00

... what has stuck to me, bounced off you.Or something like that. I put up the guilt post and now I feel guilty because it actually worked! What generosity you all have shown me and the friends I represent.THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!The weather tomorrow promises to make the ride a bear, especially the last two hours of it. I will post about it when I physically can. One of the fun parts of this journey

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-31434676055213648252008-07-16T19:47:00.000-04:002008-07-16T19:47:00.651-04:00

Not to channel my Jewish grandmother or anything, but both tdx AND TOW1 have contributed to the ride. What are you waiting for?Please help fight MS!!!"

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-36543524915417287642008-07-14T19:26:00.003-04:002008-07-14T19:45:00.972-04:00

Hi all (if anyone is left). Sorry about the time between posts.Right now if you are lectionary preachers or lectionary listeners then you are in the midst of gardening/sowing/farming/weeding and soon, mustarding. They are good solid parables with plenty of room for discussion and pontifications and illustrations. Maybe too much room.As a former Youth Director I have plenty of experience with

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-34901572361332471302008-07-02T11:09:00.000-04:002008-07-02T11:09:00.617-04:00

One of the challenges for me at these Christian music festivals are the speakers. They are good speakers and I know their overall audience is the younger set, not me but still... sometimes their messages just make me cringe. As a Youth Director I was always careful to follow up with my youth about making a decision to follow Christ not just with your emotions, but also with your head.Simply put,

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-30448742859441770862008-06-29T13:51:00.004-04:002008-06-30T11:09:37.657-04:00

One year ago I came home to a five page letter in my door that would forever change the course of my life. Over the next 365 days I experienced:deep sorrowexcruciating painbitter memoriespublic embarrassmentloneliness.I have also experienced:abounding gracedeepened faithnewfound giftsrestored confidencehope.So many of you have propped me up along the way. So many of you have reached out, cried,

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-90158129618345451102008-06-26T07:16:00.003-04:002008-06-26T07:25:01.777-04:00

Please help fight MS!!!"Once again I am putting my legs, lungs and psyche to the test by hitting the bike for over 50 miles in the middle of July. Most of you know someone who has been diagnosed with MS and it is my hope to help find a cure so that these loved ones no longer have to live with the symptoms and exacerbations that take them away from living the lives they want to live.Please click

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-39014492607659488972008-06-21T20:59:00.003-04:002008-06-21T21:14:29.879-04:00

As you can tell from recent posts we are very much nearing a year since implosion/explosion/lift-off to my next life.The permission to call the tdh I knew 'dead' has remained the healthiest choice for me, but the grieving process has interesting twists to it. For instance, I can grieve the loss of the tdh I knew (or thought I knew) but would you hear through the grapevine that your deceased loved

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-86335891060578568512008-06-19T11:07:00.002-04:002008-06-19T11:09:19.757-04:00

The Boy asked me to draw a picture of Daddy...I swear I added the horns after he went to bed.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-87221449809951115662008-06-16T06:46:00.002-04:002008-06-16T07:11:44.046-04:00

UP - We survived our 20+ hours of driving and the woman who was once an acquaintance is now a friend.down - It should have been only 16+ hours of driving.UP - I now know how to navigate the southern part of Mitten State when the interstate is closed.UP - Driving the stick shift VW was WAY fun... just a bit more power and handling than my van.UP - What began as a good idea quickly became a

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-65563728873185972042008-06-13T06:53:00.003-04:002008-06-13T07:06:00.116-04:00

I leave around lunchtime today to drive to 'State-that-Looks-Like-a-Mitten'; about an 8 hour drive.On Wednesday nights before Easter I would go to the gym with a friend and then afterwards we would go get a drink, a bottomless basket of chips and salsa and I would talk out my grief and sadness.Thanks to her and all of you, I got better and was able to be there for her when post-Easter we would

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-20603005995493352422008-06-11T23:42:00.002-04:002008-06-11T23:59:14.804-04:00

So anyone who remembers dressing the little ones in their lives also may remember the balance issues that can become involved when little legs go into little shorts or socks or shoes. The Boy lately has taken to holding on to me and saying, "Mommy, I have you and me. I have you and me."Soon after The Big Event I wrote that I felt like I had kicked off the bottom of the deep end and although I

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-10668888835381944832008-06-11T17:05:00.001-04:002008-06-11T17:06:13.005-04:00

An interesting post from a year ago today. tdx, of course, was the staff member in question.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-20332298808236185262008-06-10T17:52:00.004-04:002008-06-12T00:00:08.918-04:00

I have had that title thought a few times over the weekend and yet can I remember one of those 'witty' narratives? No.One of the challenges of single parenting/full time working is finding the hours in the day. I know we all do what we have to do, but I still find myself giving homage to those who are doing it with more than one child. My ex-s-i-l does it with 4! This is my excuse for not

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-57381328619398786202008-06-05T07:55:00.001-04:002008-06-05T07:57:08.197-04:00

Dear Church I Want to Go To:I have your beloved Associate Pastor. If you hire me no one gets hurt.Peace.The Reverend Will Smama(too forward?)

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-5994981003134638152008-06-04T07:59:00.001-04:002008-06-04T09:44:56.431-04:00

This is late and so it shall also be brief...What was I doing ten years ago:Recovering from my first year of seminary and gearing up for Summer Hebrew.Five things on today's "to do" listBulletin/Worship planningGymHaircut3 Team MeetingsMargarita with a friendThings I'd do if I was a billionaire:Get some friends and family out of debt and then work with one medical research group to attempt to

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-90982419025618092372008-06-03T08:29:00.002-04:002008-06-03T12:25:35.479-04:00

One of the struggles for me in ministry is remembering that much like The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins, the pastor hat is not one that comes off. A couple of Sundays ago I reprimanded a child out on the playground. That family is now leaving the church.As one person explained it to me, although I was right, it is not a good feeling to have your child yelled at by anyone and add to that my

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-11434564965769662402008-06-02T18:09:00.004-04:002008-06-02T18:13:10.928-04:00

Allergies... I moved to where I am now and for the first time I have allergies. Mowed grass in particular gives me a headache and so I have kept track.Monday - neighbor northwest of driveway mows lawnTuesday - neighbor north of driveway mows lawnWednesday - neighbor south of driveway mows lawnThursday - neighbor north of driveway mows lawn (he's old, so he mows it a lot)Friday - our lawn is

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-36130599293503394342008-05-28T23:42:00.002-04:002008-05-28T23:43:13.789-04:00

Friends, with me being officially single, it wasonly a matter of time.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-77930652075018420162008-05-27T12:37:00.006-04:002008-05-27T13:04:54.712-04:00

There is a young man in my congregation who is ill-behaved. I think most of us at least have one where the truth is there is no other underlying reason for his behavior other than (in my humble opinion) lack of discipline. I HATE that he makes me think along those lines because that is SO Old Guard but dammit, if my kid behaves himself, why. can't. yours?I am usually pretty easy going about kids

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-36768717490282234372008-05-22T09:19:00.002-04:002008-05-22T09:26:19.733-04:00

Although quite embedded in the search for the next call I have been trying very hard to stay in the now and give my current call the energy and focus it deserves.That said, I am so done with the Memorial Day Weekend Sunday as Sacrament thing.We are singing three hymns, doing a litany and the rest will focus on lectionary.This very well could hasten my need to search for the next call!Speaking of

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-19630919152983826392008-05-20T15:49:00.002-04:002008-05-20T16:08:54.852-04:00

I recently heard someone describe the change in their understanding of what homosexual rights should and shouldn't be as coming out of a cave and into the light. He and I both grew up in the Presbyterian Church and we both grew up thinking we didn't know any gay people or as he put it "I grew up not knowing I knew gay people."My senior year in high school tragedy struck and I learned that not

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-18889466713532569962008-05-18T21:41:00.002-04:002008-05-18T21:44:25.987-04:00

Hey. Sorry I went AWOL for a bit. My Mom had some health issues and my plate was just a bit too full. This week I have taken time off in order to commence Potty Training Boot Camp because he can do it, we have all just been a bit lazy and not taken that underwear step.Today... I used the last. diaper. on. the. planet.You know... except for night-nights. :)And that, for ALL of your sakes, will be

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-12038966735229297172008-05-09T10:23:00.001-04:002008-05-09T10:23:52.687-04:00

... this is pretty funny.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-50023177855677971572008-05-09T05:53:00.003-04:002008-05-09T06:54:20.011-04:00

Yesterday I spent a good chunk of the time with my Presbytery's uber-committee. We have a good committee and a pretty good Presbytery and a great EP. As great as he is and as supportive as he is, he is still the EP and the one church's will go to for recommendations so there came a time when he would ask me how I was doing and I would respond a tad (or a lot) more positively than I really

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-9566662477801767152008-05-07T16:00:00.003-04:002008-05-07T16:10:07.991-04:00

First, the obligatory baby bunny update: They are fine and growing and almost cute.One of the 'joys' of life in our particular valley are allergies even for the very young. The Boy exhibited the Claritan classics: itchy, watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing. After confirming with the pediatrician's office that it was okay, I picked up children's Claritan for him - grape and chewable.Getting him

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-81371415649880866872008-05-06T21:24:00.003-04:002008-05-06T21:39:39.242-04:00

First, the baby bunny update... they're fine. I checked on them this afternoon and it was apparant that Mamma had added some of her fur and some more grass to their weeded - and therefore exposed - nest. They already looked a lot bigger... almost cute. Not quite though... still a bit too 'slithery' for that.In other news our church team had its first softball game. If you have been checking in on

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-31072374620176051982008-05-05T15:38:00.003-04:002008-05-05T15:51:33.435-04:00

And so here is where I admit that flowers, gardens, cute wildlife and seeking healing in dirt don't interest me. I have friends who are not 'whole' until they can get out and be in dirt for the first time in the spring.Whatever.We inherited a garden that spits out asparagus and rhubarb automatically and tdx took care of it. Now because I have an inquiring 3 year old I was willing to weed and even

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-80872404481236288232008-05-03T16:54:00.003-04:002008-05-03T17:02:45.605-04:00

Weird how the simple purchase of a designer item can seem like yet another veil lifted... or chain link removed... or whatever. It's really not that dramatic but I did enjoy having the mometary second guess on buying them and then the joy of realizing it was my purchase to make and mine alone.The Boy loves his as finally I have allowed him to pick out something in his favorite color - black. His

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-29894772406724751922008-05-01T18:48:00.003-04:002008-05-01T19:08:30.232-04:00

You almost feel bad for him as he drives up in his cluttered car filled with overflow from his one room apartment and remnants of a hotel clerk job at nights.You almost feel bad as his son jumps out of the car and runs to his Mommy's waiting arms and through the door with nary a wave.You almost feel bad as he steps into the kitchen and notices her haircut and how she has kept the weight off. And

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-45774080507625196972008-05-01T13:01:00.002-04:002008-05-01T13:08:45.819-04:00

Sorry about the delay in posts. I feel like a have a couple brewing but I have been trying to get things 'decent and in order' again in the office after a pre-Easter of walking through the valley and a post-Easter of climbing out if it.Songbird reminded me of this funny story that when cleaned up can be a great sermon illustration. I have used it with Genesis 2:While at my intern church I used to

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-26772803361705090132008-04-26T21:35:00.004-04:002008-04-26T22:40:02.710-04:00

I was ready.I mean REALLY ready to seriously lay into a particular airline that I am pretty sure has waved good-bye to its hey-day and is now thoroughly embracing mediocrity. As the shareholders gather around the smoky embers of their investment in ruins they might want to inspect closer and I think they will see the cloth that makes up the cots that line one side of the terminal and wonder if

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-55257419673614003482008-04-25T18:19:00.007-04:002008-04-25T18:51:48.635-04:00

I entitled this post 'Full' because 'Cup Runneth Over' is a bit too cliche'.The truth though is, my cup does runneth over. I feel like in a turn-around of a month - which really isn't THAT long looking back from this side of the valley - I have gone from desert, cracks-in-the-earth dry in mind, soul and spirit to soaking wet from a full dousing in emotional, spiritual and intellectual

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-38786993528406152502008-04-23T00:08:00.002-04:002008-04-23T00:11:38.511-04:00

"paradigm""living into""affirm""shadow""What I hear you saying..."We are still allowed to use the above words and phrase, but there WILL be a penalty.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-10720565370886222182008-04-22T00:02:00.003-04:002008-04-23T00:08:45.950-04:00

And so I am now somewhere over the rainbow and involved in a lectionary study group which after day 1 has been such a blessing. I am not an academic and I don't know many of the others here and yet I have felt quite welcome.When you are presenting academic/exegetical/homiletical papers surrounded by folks who have opened their Greek and Hebrew texts FAR more recently than you AND who won awards

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-38984202950450741362008-04-20T07:33:00.002-04:002008-04-20T07:37:05.441-04:00

There is a special kind of stab to the heart when one's child says 'her' name.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-81758207939971161182008-04-18T23:02:00.002-04:002008-04-18T23:06:27.208-04:00

A couple of days ago I...- Deposited my tax refund (only because I could not legally sign it right over to the accountant who is WELL WORTH IT!)- Voted in my state's primary because I am going to be absent next week.- Made an illegal left turn because I didn't think that the sign really applied to me. Fortunately, last year's taxes were not enough to pay for a cop there to catch me!

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-53280141665117390502008-04-17T20:50:00.001-04:002008-04-17T20:52:54.701-04:00

Good dog.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-62658066304151897842008-04-16T11:03:00.003-04:002008-04-16T11:09:10.168-04:00

When you are outside where the tractors are mowingand the plows are spreadingand the birds are chirpingand the chipper is chippingand you are having a hushed but stressful conversation when all of the sudden the church chimes start to LOUDLY play the hymn that you sang at your wedding do you...a) laughb) cryc) bothd) stop and stare dumbfoundede) kick him in the nads!!!For the record I did (a)

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-81849860821034255012008-04-15T10:59:00.005-04:002008-04-15T11:43:52.437-04:00

In my outline for last Sunday's sermon under III.B.2. it says "Sweet Salve of Nurture". If anyone could tell me what the HECK I meant by that, I would greatly appreciate it because as I told the Preacher Party it sounds like a genteel southerner's swear or an Oil of Olay Product. (edited to add that originally I spelled 'genteel': g-e-n-t-i-l-e. Duh.)Today I told The Boy's teacher that on

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-57085610754163157192008-04-13T22:42:00.003-04:002008-04-13T23:22:21.791-04:00

One of the things I appreciate when I go on a retreat is when the speaker 'gets it'. The first thing that Mary Marcotte told us as we gathered on our first night together is that, "Grace abounds." If we felt like our souls would be better served sleeping in or hanging out by the pool or whatever, we should go and do that instead. 'Grace abounds' soon became a bit of a rallying cry and it was nice

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-77824619081469538122008-04-12T20:20:00.002-04:002008-04-12T20:22:24.420-04:00

Today through a variety of events including outdoor mud, potty training and ketchup with our tots and hot dogs The Boy and I created an entire load of laundry.As you were...

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-5978861218077366742008-04-11T07:15:00.001-04:002008-04-11T07:17:12.403-04:00

Please pray for my friend today and if you are prayer specific, beginning at 1 c.s.t would be great.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-9258537269316833432008-04-10T15:35:00.003-04:002008-04-10T15:58:59.321-04:00

At the Big Event (which I have posted about and will most likely continue to post about ad nausuem) we were asked, "What makes you tired?" It was our second gathering, but our first 'let's get to it' discussion. I made a concerted effort to be an active listener and not spend the time before my turn thinking of what I was going to say. In fact, I honestly think I could tell you what other folks

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-89880547187733243392008-04-09T10:50:00.004-04:002008-04-09T10:57:50.663-04:00

"Oh my God, is that thing real?!"- tdx, 4/9/2008, 0857 est, manse kitchen, demeanor: open-mouthed gaping.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-18718452556709701732008-04-07T21:16:00.003-04:002008-04-07T21:58:16.249-04:00

I am always wary of coming back from an event on only an emotional high. Emotion is good, and sharing them is a HUGE reason why I am better, but actual lessons learned are good too and probably end up going further.As a Youth Director I veered my kids away from those big events purposefully arranged to whip the kids into a frenzy and then do a huge altar call and watch as peer pressure does its

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-9379890761901456852008-04-07T09:11:00.003-04:002008-04-07T09:16:12.181-04:00

Well, finally the 'still at sea' feeling has left me and I am finding I am quite sad about its departure. Emails fly between all of us as a virtual lido aft deck, but still. Somehow cow-spread laden, allergen-loaded central PA is not quite the same as this: There were many lessons to glean from this trip, one of them is what it means for the server to be served. More later on this but in the

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-74652202894993510672008-04-05T21:24:00.004-04:002008-04-05T21:34:18.670-04:00

Taking a break from a near completed sermon because my son's stage in potty training reminded me of this story.During tdx's family reunion in the summer of 1999, we all stayed at one son's house in northern Philly. It was a LOT of people in one house so we went outside as much as possible. Fortunately most of the kids were MORE than happy to just swim in their pool.Of course, there was one

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-3340357949674370032008-04-04T12:14:00.005-04:002008-04-04T12:40:51.275-04:00

With this Sunday's gospel reading in mind, that wonderful revelation of Christ to the companions on the Emmaus road. I wonder where you might have been surprised by God's revelation recently.So with no further waffle I offer you this weeks Friday 5:How has God revealed him/herself to you in a:1. BookHere is where I reveal that I have read nothing of importance in a very long time but I have high

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-33918024331806678272008-04-04T10:01:00.003-04:002008-04-04T10:05:28.035-04:00

Thanks to The Typist for pics from our geocache adventure.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-23684244114046177712008-04-03T08:59:00.002-04:002008-04-03T09:00:00.946-04:00

I still have the blister.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-1436050012917206152008-04-02T11:25:00.002-04:002008-04-02T11:33:11.410-04:00

It is hard to post stuff because typing on the computer causes my inner-ship to rock, but here is a pic of the solidarity tattoos I blogged about last night.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-64158553106958463932008-04-01T19:25:00.005-04:002008-04-01T20:07:53.677-04:00

Some Bloggable Facts:The colors of my tattoo match the colors of the Gulf of Mexico as seen from the aft deck of the ship.I am now an international geocacher.As great (and plentiful) as the food was on board, what really made me full was stuffing myself with Cheese and (St.) Casseroleand other wonderful “dishes” on board.Sometimes line dancing on the deck of a catamaran can be a spiritual

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-66886960469938454722008-04-01T12:42:00.000-04:002008-04-01T12:43:41.778-04:00

We're back.I'm better.More soon...

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-40630171818652193462008-03-17T20:27:00.002-04:002008-03-17T20:29:12.676-04:00

My apologies for the lack of posts. Apparantly the Phase I fevers of this illness are followed by Phase II exhaustion. I am either attempting to accomplish something concrete... or napping.And now I am going back to bed.Seriously.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-77802074518857992462008-03-13T13:03:00.003-04:002008-03-13T13:20:22.538-04:00

Had a WONDERFUL weekend spoiling my Mom for her 65th birthday. My sister and I treated her to an all expense paid weekend in Philly complete with a day at the Philadelpia Flower Show, incredibly good food and an on-stage appearance during Menopause The Musical.Both shows were far more entertaining than I could have hoped and it was a blast to treat my Mom to a really great weekend.Unfortunately,

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-32137250971763703622008-03-07T06:57:00.003-05:002008-03-07T07:18:33.294-05:00

I am headed to the east side of the state this weekend to hang out with my Mom and sister for my Mom's big birthday. The Boy is going down to southern state with his father for his grandfather's memorial service. I am glad for the former and hope it keeps my mind off of the latter.Seems like a good time for a hope-filled Friday five but it has been a tough week with a lot of rowing and I am not

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-19768013874679853532008-03-06T10:07:00.002-05:002008-03-06T10:18:32.794-05:00

I have a dog.Any parent will tell you the best part of having a dog is the instant clean-up of all food products from the floor. I have been known to dump the contents of The Boy's booster seat onto the floor at a friend's house only to be reminded by their confused looks that they, in fact, do not have a dog.The other day a friend of mine was over and we were sitting and talking like adults in

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-29613935612019553682008-03-05T07:33:00.002-05:002008-03-05T07:40:12.837-05:00

When I was in seminary it took a lot of energy for me to keep up with the folks at Psnooty Theological. So when sweet Friday came, I usually crashed and crashed HARD. By the end of the semester's exams and papers this non-academic was a zombie. I would spend the week after each semester looking for a soft place to put my head.That's how I feel this week ever since Sunday afternoon - so tired at

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-2166980704912379902008-03-02T15:17:00.001-05:002008-03-02T15:21:01.690-05:00

Do door-to-door evangalizing congregations give out bonus points if you snag a pastor of another denomination because it just stuns me that they come to my door quarterly when I live ON THE GROUNDS of the church.I did thank them for waking me up from my nap though. And it is a DARN good thing they did not wake up The Boy or they would have found a whole different kind of religion.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-32149759623036458542008-03-01T15:29:00.003-05:002008-03-01T15:57:47.413-05:00

So Betty and family have been on me pretty hard this week with their anti-intern venom, etc... Last Sunday we announced in worship that our intern will be returning next year and that kicked off their public anti-intern campaign. In my office, Betty has even attacked our intern's grandchildren because the one stuck her tongue out at her granddaughter. Nevermind that this is the only church

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-38717704816961979872008-02-29T07:20:00.003-05:002008-02-29T07:51:58.564-05:00

Look Before You Leap, It's the Friday Five!Hello from your Fifth Friday Five team, will smama and Songbird~It's Leap Day!! Whether you're one of the special few who have a birthday only once every four years, or simply confused by the extra day on the calendar, everyone is welcome to join in and play our Leap Year Friday Five.Tell us about a time you:1. Leapt before lookedWell, this is more my

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-40987210713103112272008-02-28T18:39:00.002-05:002008-02-28T18:46:52.658-05:00

Here are some things I never thought I would know...a) You get a certificate for divorce. It does not, however, come with a frame or with nice calligraphied handwriting.b) There must have been a bulk rate on ugly paper because it is printed on some seriously ugly, light brown paper with...c) Purple ink. Purple ink? Who made that call? I gotta tell you, I would have been the conservative one

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-80276438462153046962008-02-27T14:12:00.000-05:002008-02-27T14:13:22.994-05:00

As of 2/21/2008 I am single.

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-80875771743217505892008-02-26T20:36:00.003-05:002008-02-26T21:04:27.281-05:00

There is still no letter giving me the official date of divorce. I am of course paralleling where I am now as opposed to a year ago quite a bit as this is when I started to note a major shift in TDH's personality just one year ago. Also this time last year I was checking the mailbox waiting for a yea or nay on a DMin program. Oh what a difference a year makes.A lot of things around pregnancies

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15359642.post-61198296146703433962008-02-26T15:05:00.002-05:002008-02-26T15:07:52.470-05:00

No need to get into the details of the conversation, but suffice to say it was enough for me to earn a medium-sized jar of syrup.sigh...

will smamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06632209393133155385noreply@blogger.com3