One third of the summer is already over (that is if you live on a school calendar as I have for the last twenty six years). But, I will soon be on "Laney Time" with only six more workdays until..."free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty, I'll be free at last!"
As an accountant, tomorrow will be my last month end and fiscal year end closing. Yay, yay, yay! I do not like them, do I don't. I will not miss them, no I won't. Seriously though, I will miss the ladies I have worked with for so many years.
This blog is dedicated to a special friend, who is more like a little sister than a co-worker. If not by blood, she is truly a sister of the heart. As Dorothy says to Scarecrow, "I think I'll miss you most of all"! We've shared laughter and tears. She cried along with me through my mother's long illness, the death of both of my parents, and celebrated with me when both sons married, and at the birth of all three of my grandchildren.
Because of her, I now love flashy jewelry, fun purses, and animal prints, and I wouldn't be caught dead without makeup. Although at 50+, she hasn't yet talked me into a big, 80's hairdo, platform shoes, or lipstick that lasts all day!
At the top of my list of fun memories with her is the Josh Groban concert in Raleigh, and screaming like groupies at the Celtic Thunder Concert in Charlotte. Of course, I can't forget her pushing me at breakneck speed in my wheelchair through Old Time Pottery, or singing to the tops of our lungs to David Phelps' "End of the Beginning" and others, more than once.
We share a love of books, old movies, and dumb jokes. My favorite is "the Frayed Knot". She has dubbed me the Google Queen and she is the Queen of Window Treatments. I can't ever call them "curtains" again without correcting myself. I'll never forget her rendition of "Cookies in the Cookie Jar" in Alabama-ese or her Tim Conway impression with secretary, Mrs. Wiggins. I promise, people, we do work...hard. But sometimes comic-relief is the only way to make it through the day. And who says accountants have to be boring?
I don't think I've ever met anyone with a bigger heart. We've proven that friendship can transcend generations and age barriers. Thanks, dear friend, for keeping me "young at heart".
Copyright 2011 Laney's Musings
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Sunday Naps and Sleepless Nights
There is nothing finer than a Sunday nap. Since God directed us to have a day of rest, He understands our need for a break from physical and mental fatigue. I have often told my hubby, "I'm not physically tired, just mentally and emotionally", sometimes to the point I just can't function. The problem is, many times my Sunday naps become Sunday "sleep all afternoons".
When bedtime comes, then I'm not one bit sleepy, although I know the Monday morning alarm clock awaits. Do you ever have nights like that; maybe not Sunday, but any night of the week when you attempt to pray yourself to sleep? Maybe when that fails, you try reading, or talking yourself to sleep. But....your brain just won't shut off? You go over what you have accomplished during the day, or what you didn't accomplish. Then you move on to those things on your "to do" list for the next day, or the next week, or the next year, or you worry about something that "may" happen, or "might not happen", some misunderstanding between you and a family member or friend that needs to be resolved. The list could go on and on.
The more you tell yourself, "you have to get up and go to work" in "x" number of hours, the more wide awake you become. I've glanced frantically at the alarm clock and told myself..."you absolutely must go to sleep, you have to get up in three hours!" I've counted backwards from a hundred, envisioned the infamous sheep jumping over fences, all to no avail. I've also wandered around in a completely dark house, and jammed my foot on a bedpost I feel sure had moved itself from it's previous location.
I've thought back on why I sometimes have those nights when I just cannot fall asleep. Is it because of a late night snack I should have skipped, or a suspenseful TV show or movie just before bed? No, usually it's because of fretting and worrying over something instead of trusting God for the outcome.
The next time I have one of those sleepless nights, I plan to open my Bible and read the following verses, reminding myself of how much my Heavenly Father loves and cares for me, and that my life and future are completely in the safety of His most capable hands.
Matthew 6:26-34 (NASB)
26 "Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? 27 And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life? 28 And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, 29 yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. 30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! 31 Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ 32 For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34 “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
When bedtime comes, then I'm not one bit sleepy, although I know the Monday morning alarm clock awaits. Do you ever have nights like that; maybe not Sunday, but any night of the week when you attempt to pray yourself to sleep? Maybe when that fails, you try reading, or talking yourself to sleep. But....your brain just won't shut off? You go over what you have accomplished during the day, or what you didn't accomplish. Then you move on to those things on your "to do" list for the next day, or the next week, or the next year, or you worry about something that "may" happen, or "might not happen", some misunderstanding between you and a family member or friend that needs to be resolved. The list could go on and on.
The more you tell yourself, "you have to get up and go to work" in "x" number of hours, the more wide awake you become. I've glanced frantically at the alarm clock and told myself..."you absolutely must go to sleep, you have to get up in three hours!" I've counted backwards from a hundred, envisioned the infamous sheep jumping over fences, all to no avail. I've also wandered around in a completely dark house, and jammed my foot on a bedpost I feel sure had moved itself from it's previous location.
I've thought back on why I sometimes have those nights when I just cannot fall asleep. Is it because of a late night snack I should have skipped, or a suspenseful TV show or movie just before bed? No, usually it's because of fretting and worrying over something instead of trusting God for the outcome.
The next time I have one of those sleepless nights, I plan to open my Bible and read the following verses, reminding myself of how much my Heavenly Father loves and cares for me, and that my life and future are completely in the safety of His most capable hands.
Matthew 6:26-34 (NASB)
26 "Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? 27 And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life? 28 And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, 29 yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. 30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! 31 Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ 32 For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34 “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
In Their Mama and Daddy's Shoes
As a young girl, I loved playing dress-up in my Mom's clothes and shoes. Although I'm sure she tired of my knocking on the front door for the "umpteenth" time, she would still patiently answer, "Come in Miss Jones". I still strive to be like her, although I know I fail miserably most days. She was a marvelous example of a loving wife and mother.
Two of my favorite photographs are of my sons at about two and six years old, wearing their Daddy's size 12 softball cleats, hat, and ball glove. How quickly the years have passed as they now wear the "Daddy shoes", with sons and daughter to imitate them in what they see and hear.
We spent Father's Day in Georgia with our youngest son, daughter-in-law, and our one-year-old grandson. Always wanting to help when he can, my husband was soon out in the extreme heat, trimming brush, and working on our son's weed eater. That weed eater is a very important tool. Our son took on a second job of cutting and trimming grass at his church so that our daughter-in-law can stay home with their son during these precious early years. Fortunately, the weed eater is operational again...but I had no doubts.
It is so wonderful to see our sons excelling in fatherhood. I am so proud of them. Watching them interact with their children is such a blessing. But why should I expect anything less? They have a wonderful example. Their amazing father doesn't shy away from hard work. He's humble and ethical in his dealing with others. Generally a man of few words, but a man of action, he loves God and his family unconditionally. If there is a need to be met, and it is within his power to make it happen, he will.
Since imitation is the highest form of flattery, and God is the perfect father, shouldn't it be our goal to imitate Him in parenting and life?
Micah 6:8: "He has showed you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Two of my favorite photographs are of my sons at about two and six years old, wearing their Daddy's size 12 softball cleats, hat, and ball glove. How quickly the years have passed as they now wear the "Daddy shoes", with sons and daughter to imitate them in what they see and hear.
We spent Father's Day in Georgia with our youngest son, daughter-in-law, and our one-year-old grandson. Always wanting to help when he can, my husband was soon out in the extreme heat, trimming brush, and working on our son's weed eater. That weed eater is a very important tool. Our son took on a second job of cutting and trimming grass at his church so that our daughter-in-law can stay home with their son during these precious early years. Fortunately, the weed eater is operational again...but I had no doubts.
It is so wonderful to see our sons excelling in fatherhood. I am so proud of them. Watching them interact with their children is such a blessing. But why should I expect anything less? They have a wonderful example. Their amazing father doesn't shy away from hard work. He's humble and ethical in his dealing with others. Generally a man of few words, but a man of action, he loves God and his family unconditionally. If there is a need to be met, and it is within his power to make it happen, he will.
Since imitation is the highest form of flattery, and God is the perfect father, shouldn't it be our goal to imitate Him in parenting and life?
Micah 6:8: "He has showed you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Friday, June 17, 2011
Happy Daddy's Day
I would never call you Father, only Daddy or Dad. You loved getting birthday, Father's Day, or "just because" cards. When I wrote special notes inside, you cried. You were sentimental like that, and the most patriotic man I've ever known. Even though you were a tough old World War II veteran, in your eighties you still stood and put your hand over your heart when the national anthem was played, and teared up during Taps.
One had better not use vulgar or profane language in front of a woman or child if you were present. I have a particular instance in mind that I won't chronicle here; but I am positive my middle brother remembers the day well. In the days of knights, I guess it would be called throwing down the gauntlet. I laugh now, but at the time, it wasn't so funny!
You also did not want to drive a golfball down on you without yelling "Fore!" if you didn't want your golfball kicked off the green...another funny family story.
It's been five years since I bought your last Father's Day card. I miss you every day. You were a doodle, Daddy. I know you will have a wonderful Daddy's Day in Heaven. Give Jesus and Mama a big hug for me if you can.
Love,
Laney Bug
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
One had better not use vulgar or profane language in front of a woman or child if you were present. I have a particular instance in mind that I won't chronicle here; but I am positive my middle brother remembers the day well. In the days of knights, I guess it would be called throwing down the gauntlet. I laugh now, but at the time, it wasn't so funny!
You also did not want to drive a golfball down on you without yelling "Fore!" if you didn't want your golfball kicked off the green...another funny family story.
It's been five years since I bought your last Father's Day card. I miss you every day. You were a doodle, Daddy. I know you will have a wonderful Daddy's Day in Heaven. Give Jesus and Mama a big hug for me if you can.
Love,
Laney Bug
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
23 Days..Homeward Stretch
The calendar pages are flipping over quickly now. Only 23 more days and I'll hug some old friends, wipe a few tears, pack up my few remaining personal belongings, check my emails, log off my computer one last time, then turn in my office keys.
Since I am an accountant, (who loves analyzing statistics) I could bore you with how many month-end closings, and fiscal year audits I've endured over the years...but I plan on retiring my calculator, too.
From some things, however, I may have to wean myself gradually. I really love Excel spreadsheets. I can see it now, I'll have the entire contents of our home inventoried and catalogued my first week at home. After that's completed, maybe there is a future for me on "Extreme Couponing".
Oh, the plans I have! But if I get bored, one day I may greet you with a smile and, "Welcome to Walmart! May I assist you with a shopping cart?"
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Since I am an accountant, (who loves analyzing statistics) I could bore you with how many month-end closings, and fiscal year audits I've endured over the years...but I plan on retiring my calculator, too.
From some things, however, I may have to wean myself gradually. I really love Excel spreadsheets. I can see it now, I'll have the entire contents of our home inventoried and catalogued my first week at home. After that's completed, maybe there is a future for me on "Extreme Couponing".
Oh, the plans I have! But if I get bored, one day I may greet you with a smile and, "Welcome to Walmart! May I assist you with a shopping cart?"
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Technological Advances?
Blackberry, Droid, iPad, iPod, Kindle, Nook, Windows, Mac, Xbox, Wii, FaceBook, Twitter, Skype..technology has certainly made its mark in the everyday lives of millions of American families, mine included. The advances are occuring so rapidly, who can possibly keep up?
I snapped a comical photo (digital, of course) at Easter of the two oldest grands dying Easter eggs...in the background was my son and daughter-in-law texting, probably to each other. Tonight hubby and I had dinner on the deck, enjoying the cooler weather and watching the bluebirds. Now here we sit, each with a computer in our lap...his a netbook, mine a laptop. In many ways, technology has enriched our lives, in others...not so much.
My one rebellion against technology is the phone. Since I am on the phone so much a work, I am not a real fan of them after hours. I seldom answer the home phone (yes, we still have one of those relics), and I conveniently "forget" to charge the battery of my cellphone. However, the annoying plinking sound it makes when the battery is low (in the middle of the night) is worse than answering it when it rings. Sadly, I don't even know the number when anyone asks...I always give them my husband's number, which I'm sure he appreciates.
While growing up, we lived about 45 minutes away from the grandparents in the same state, but another county. But we dared not make a long-distance phone call...it might cost 50 cents. I am thankful that I can talk to friends, family, children and grandchildren who live in other counties and other states without worrying about long distance rates.
Of course today, most cellphone costs are between $600 and $1800 per year, depending on the perks. I think I could make a lot of 50 cent phone calls for that...just saying.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
I snapped a comical photo (digital, of course) at Easter of the two oldest grands dying Easter eggs...in the background was my son and daughter-in-law texting, probably to each other. Tonight hubby and I had dinner on the deck, enjoying the cooler weather and watching the bluebirds. Now here we sit, each with a computer in our lap...his a netbook, mine a laptop. In many ways, technology has enriched our lives, in others...not so much.
My one rebellion against technology is the phone. Since I am on the phone so much a work, I am not a real fan of them after hours. I seldom answer the home phone (yes, we still have one of those relics), and I conveniently "forget" to charge the battery of my cellphone. However, the annoying plinking sound it makes when the battery is low (in the middle of the night) is worse than answering it when it rings. Sadly, I don't even know the number when anyone asks...I always give them my husband's number, which I'm sure he appreciates.
While growing up, we lived about 45 minutes away from the grandparents in the same state, but another county. But we dared not make a long-distance phone call...it might cost 50 cents. I am thankful that I can talk to friends, family, children and grandchildren who live in other counties and other states without worrying about long distance rates.
Of course today, most cellphone costs are between $600 and $1800 per year, depending on the perks. I think I could make a lot of 50 cent phone calls for that...just saying.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Monday, June 13, 2011
Broken Shells
Looking at the bowl of broken shells on my coffee table, I wonder. Have you ever watched children at the beach picking up shells? Every plain, ordinary, broken seashell is cherished and goes into their sand bucket. Each one is special and beautiful in their eyes.
As people grow older, their taste matures and becomes more sophisticated. Seashells should be perfect and unblemished to make their way into an adult's collection. No broken shell will do. Those plain, ordinary, broken shells have been tossed about a bit; been through some storms. They've lost their beauty, luster, and usefulness.
I think God views you and me as "broken shells". Even though our lives are sinful and imperfect; our spirits broken and scarred by the storms of life, God loves us anyway. He is willing to take our broken lives and make them "new". It's a free gift...just for the asking.
II Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come." NASB
Lord, may I never become so sophisticated that I don't still find beauty in broken shells...or broken people. I'm so thankful that You love both?
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
As people grow older, their taste matures and becomes more sophisticated. Seashells should be perfect and unblemished to make their way into an adult's collection. No broken shell will do. Those plain, ordinary, broken shells have been tossed about a bit; been through some storms. They've lost their beauty, luster, and usefulness.
I think God views you and me as "broken shells". Even though our lives are sinful and imperfect; our spirits broken and scarred by the storms of life, God loves us anyway. He is willing to take our broken lives and make them "new". It's a free gift...just for the asking.
II Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come." NASB
Lord, may I never become so sophisticated that I don't still find beauty in broken shells...or broken people. I'm so thankful that You love both?
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Fishing But No Catching
I love magazines, particularly Better Homes and Gardens, Country Living, and Southern Living. I drool over the beautiful photographs of outdoor meals and picnics with fabric tablecloths, gourmet fare, real china, crystal and candles. I've tried to duplicate their Al Fresco meals, and have always been disappointed in the outcome...Martha Stewart I am not, but hope springs eternal.
Hubby and I had the grandkids for an overnighter on Friday. I woke up this morning with the great idea of taking them for a picnic to a nearby nature preserve with a large lake. Since I am a scrapbooker, (i.e.-collector of scrapbooking paraphanalia), I have visions of great photo ops that are scrapbook worthy.
We live in the South, so we generally skip from winter to summer. It's barely June and we have had a multitude of 90+ degree days with extremely high humitity. Being outside for an extended period of time is like being in a sweatbox. Today was no exception. We got to the park and found a nice picnic table not too far from the parking lot. This was a good thing with two kiddos in tow, beachtowels, picnic lunch, bug spray, sunscreen, BandAids, baby wipes, purse, and of course the trusty camera bag with extra batteries. I learned "overkill" from my Dad.
Our five-year-old granddaughter recently had a frightening experience with tree frogs and now freaks out at the sign of a bug or creepy-crawly. Things began to go downhill when she spied a grand-daddy longlegs on the picnic table. She didn't want to go near it until the underside of the table and seats had been closely inspected and "Pappy" had banished all intruders.
Well, even though the picnic table was close to the parking lot, it was also in full sun. There was a slight breeze, so I thought we'd be just fine. Our two-and-a-half year old grandson then had a meltdown because he thought his food was going to blow away. Photo Op No. 1: One redeeming photo of our granddaughter feeding grapes to a curious squirrel.
After packing up lunch, we thought we'd move on to fishing. Oops...we forgot to buy bait. My hubby who is the king of improv said we'd just use leftover bread and deli chicken since crappie will eat anything, even gum (we've tried it). The walk through the woods to the pier was much farther than anticipated..with two kiddos, backpack, two fishing poles, tackle box, purse, beach towel, papertowels, snacks, and again the trusty camera bag..with extra batteries. Isn't the scouting motto, "Be Prepared"?
Hubby got the fishing rods set up while I spread out the beach towel for the little ones to sit and fish. Again, we're in full sun and it's blazing hot. Little Boy is crying because he does not want sunscreen on his face. The bread balls kept falling off the fishhooks.
Photo op No. 2: Two kiddos holding fishing rods, sans fish...not a bite, not a nibble...zilch. I now know why it's called fishing and not catching...there was certainly no catching today. But in spite of it all, making memories with the grandchildren...PRICELESS!
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Hubby and I had the grandkids for an overnighter on Friday. I woke up this morning with the great idea of taking them for a picnic to a nearby nature preserve with a large lake. Since I am a scrapbooker, (i.e.-collector of scrapbooking paraphanalia), I have visions of great photo ops that are scrapbook worthy.
We live in the South, so we generally skip from winter to summer. It's barely June and we have had a multitude of 90+ degree days with extremely high humitity. Being outside for an extended period of time is like being in a sweatbox. Today was no exception. We got to the park and found a nice picnic table not too far from the parking lot. This was a good thing with two kiddos in tow, beachtowels, picnic lunch, bug spray, sunscreen, BandAids, baby wipes, purse, and of course the trusty camera bag with extra batteries. I learned "overkill" from my Dad.
Our five-year-old granddaughter recently had a frightening experience with tree frogs and now freaks out at the sign of a bug or creepy-crawly. Things began to go downhill when she spied a grand-daddy longlegs on the picnic table. She didn't want to go near it until the underside of the table and seats had been closely inspected and "Pappy" had banished all intruders.
Well, even though the picnic table was close to the parking lot, it was also in full sun. There was a slight breeze, so I thought we'd be just fine. Our two-and-a-half year old grandson then had a meltdown because he thought his food was going to blow away. Photo Op No. 1: One redeeming photo of our granddaughter feeding grapes to a curious squirrel.
After packing up lunch, we thought we'd move on to fishing. Oops...we forgot to buy bait. My hubby who is the king of improv said we'd just use leftover bread and deli chicken since crappie will eat anything, even gum (we've tried it). The walk through the woods to the pier was much farther than anticipated..with two kiddos, backpack, two fishing poles, tackle box, purse, beach towel, papertowels, snacks, and again the trusty camera bag..with extra batteries. Isn't the scouting motto, "Be Prepared"?
Hubby got the fishing rods set up while I spread out the beach towel for the little ones to sit and fish. Again, we're in full sun and it's blazing hot. Little Boy is crying because he does not want sunscreen on his face. The bread balls kept falling off the fishhooks.
Photo op No. 2: Two kiddos holding fishing rods, sans fish...not a bite, not a nibble...zilch. I now know why it's called fishing and not catching...there was certainly no catching today. But in spite of it all, making memories with the grandchildren...PRICELESS!
Copyright 2011 Charlotte LaneyThursday, June 9, 2011
Ronald Reagan - The Gipper
My favorite US president was Ronald Reagan, also known as The Gipper. In 1980, when asked "Who are you going to vote for?", our son, Daniel, who was two at the time, would quickly answer "Wonald Weagan".
Ronald Reagan was America's strong, benevolent grandfather, with a plan for improving the economy and strengthening national security with military might. He was also a protector and advocate for the unborn. In an article, "The Human Life Review", Reagan wrote, "we cannot survive as a free nation when some men decide that others are not fit to live and should be abandoned to abortion or infanticide." Oh, how I would love to see another Ronald Reagan in the White House.
Yesterday the North Carolina House voted 71-48 to approve the Right to Know Act. This legislation includes a 24-hour waiting period and information regarding the risks and alternatives available for women seeking an abortion. The woman must also be permitted to see the ultrasound of her unborn baby.
According to LifeNews.com, discussion ensued prior to the vote as to how fewer abortions would cost North Carolina $7 million a year in Medicaid expenses.
Rep. Burt Jones of Rockingham is reported as having said, “To me, it is incredible that we would even debate the idea that somehow we can improve the fiscal impact of this state by not allowing children to be born.... I’m a fiscal conservative, but if we’ve got to pay a little more money in this state because more children have the right to be born, then so be it.”
Thank you Rep. Jones, for fighting for the rights of the unborn; this one's for the Gipper. I think Ronald Reagan is smiling.
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body;
all the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Ronald Reagan was America's strong, benevolent grandfather, with a plan for improving the economy and strengthening national security with military might. He was also a protector and advocate for the unborn. In an article, "The Human Life Review", Reagan wrote, "we cannot survive as a free nation when some men decide that others are not fit to live and should be abandoned to abortion or infanticide." Oh, how I would love to see another Ronald Reagan in the White House.
Yesterday the North Carolina House voted 71-48 to approve the Right to Know Act. This legislation includes a 24-hour waiting period and information regarding the risks and alternatives available for women seeking an abortion. The woman must also be permitted to see the ultrasound of her unborn baby.
According to LifeNews.com, discussion ensued prior to the vote as to how fewer abortions would cost North Carolina $7 million a year in Medicaid expenses.
Rep. Burt Jones of Rockingham is reported as having said, “To me, it is incredible that we would even debate the idea that somehow we can improve the fiscal impact of this state by not allowing children to be born.... I’m a fiscal conservative, but if we’ve got to pay a little more money in this state because more children have the right to be born, then so be it.”
Thank you Rep. Jones, for fighting for the rights of the unborn; this one's for the Gipper. I think Ronald Reagan is smiling.
Psalm 139:13-16
New International Version (NIV)
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body;
all the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
My Blog-Spiration
My name is Elaine and I have lived in North Carolina my entire life, most of those years having lived in the state's largest city. As a child my father affectionately called me Laney Bug, and when I became a grandmother, instead of Grandma, I became Laney. The nickname has stuck with some of my close friends and co-workers.
I've been married to my wonderful husband for over thirty five years. We have two married sons, two awesome daughters-in-law, a five year old granddaughter and two grandsons, ages almost three and one.
In 30 days I will leave a position held for twenty-six years at a Christian school for a new career as a stay-at-home wife. Although I'll miss the day to day interaction with parents and co-workers, I'm looking forward to spending more time with family--especially my grandchildren.
Some of my favorite things are music, photography, gardening, decorating, vintage jewelry and linens, and anything Jane Austen. I love old friends, big black dogs, the ocean, seashells, birds and butterflies. I can't resist the thrill of the hunt at garage sales and thrift stores; the adrenalin rush is addicting. I gravitate toward old dishes and bowls; in fact my motto is, "I never saw a dish I didn't love!" I hope to actually scrapbook some of my many photos--instead of just collecting scrapbook materials. I love old people who've aged gracefully and still love life...and well I should, since I'm quickly becoming one of them!
My Christian faith is very important to me. In the words of Lysa Terkeurst of Proverbs 31 Ministries, I am a "Jesus girl, loved by God". I want to devote more time to personal Bible study, prayer, and journaling my spiritual growth.
I love, love, love Mexican food. I wish I could say I love cooking, but that would be a lie, and lying is a sin. Since I love Mexican food (and food in general) I struggle with my weight. I am a four-time Weight Watchers dropout, but I have accomplished losing over 60 pounds and keeping it off for two years.
I absolutely hate to exercise, although I desperately need motivation to start an exercise program and stick to it. Healthier food choices is my new goal and my incentive is the book, "Made to Crave", by Lysa Terkeurst. Lysa's premise is that our bodies were made to crave God, not food. I'm also
trying sparkpeople.com's website, which has meal plans and healthy lifestyle tools.
I have lots of projects, goals, and plans for "retirement". Since I don't always follow through on my good intentions, Laney's Musings is my accountability partner for actually accomplishing some of them.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Spark People,
Weight Watchers,
Proverbs 31 Ministries
I've been married to my wonderful husband for over thirty five years. We have two married sons, two awesome daughters-in-law, a five year old granddaughter and two grandsons, ages almost three and one.
In 30 days I will leave a position held for twenty-six years at a Christian school for a new career as a stay-at-home wife. Although I'll miss the day to day interaction with parents and co-workers, I'm looking forward to spending more time with family--especially my grandchildren.
Some of my favorite things are music, photography, gardening, decorating, vintage jewelry and linens, and anything Jane Austen. I love old friends, big black dogs, the ocean, seashells, birds and butterflies. I can't resist the thrill of the hunt at garage sales and thrift stores; the adrenalin rush is addicting. I gravitate toward old dishes and bowls; in fact my motto is, "I never saw a dish I didn't love!" I hope to actually scrapbook some of my many photos--instead of just collecting scrapbook materials. I love old people who've aged gracefully and still love life...and well I should, since I'm quickly becoming one of them!
My Christian faith is very important to me. In the words of Lysa Terkeurst of Proverbs 31 Ministries, I am a "Jesus girl, loved by God". I want to devote more time to personal Bible study, prayer, and journaling my spiritual growth.
I love, love, love Mexican food. I wish I could say I love cooking, but that would be a lie, and lying is a sin. Since I love Mexican food (and food in general) I struggle with my weight. I am a four-time Weight Watchers dropout, but I have accomplished losing over 60 pounds and keeping it off for two years.
I absolutely hate to exercise, although I desperately need motivation to start an exercise program and stick to it. Healthier food choices is my new goal and my incentive is the book, "Made to Crave", by Lysa Terkeurst. Lysa's premise is that our bodies were made to crave God, not food. I'm also
trying sparkpeople.com's website, which has meal plans and healthy lifestyle tools.
I have lots of projects, goals, and plans for "retirement". Since I don't always follow through on my good intentions, Laney's Musings is my accountability partner for actually accomplishing some of them.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Spark People,
Weight Watchers,
Proverbs 31 Ministries
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
I Love You More
A few weeks ago, my five year old granddaughter said to me, "Laney, I think Max loves Pappy more than he loves you". Of course, her observation is correct. Max definitely prefers the company of his Pappy. In fact, at that moment Max was frantically looking for his toy screwdriver to "help" Pappy fix his Daddy's car.
Madi and I were sitting at her little table in the playroom coloring Shrinky-Dinks. (Oh what we Laneys won't do for our grandchildren.) But my sweet granddaughter looked at me and said, "But that's okay, Laney, because I love you more." Oh my goodness, my heart just melted. Don't we all want to think that we are loved "more".
Romans 5:5-8 says, "and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
My dear friend, not only are you loved more; you are loved MOST!
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Madi and I were sitting at her little table in the playroom coloring Shrinky-Dinks. (Oh what we Laneys won't do for our grandchildren.) But my sweet granddaughter looked at me and said, "But that's okay, Laney, because I love you more." Oh my goodness, my heart just melted. Don't we all want to think that we are loved "more".
Romans 5:5-8 says, "and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
My dear friend, not only are you loved more; you are loved MOST!
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Monday, June 6, 2011
Another One Bites the Dust
Well the news is out, for several years Rep. Anthony Weiner of New York has been communicating inappropriately with women via Facebook. A few days ago Weiner, intending to send an explicit photo of himself to a woman, instead forwarded it to all his Twitter followers. Realizing what he had done, he quickly deleted the post, then lied and reported that his account had been hacked. As his lies piled up, Weiner was forced to confess the truth in a press conference this afternoon.
Now that his moral failure has been exposed, Weiner must to face the consequences and embarrassment of his actions. His wife's trust in him has been destroyed, his constituents may ask for his resignation, and all areas of his personal and political life will be closely scrutinized...and rightly so. Who a man is, and what he does, when he thinks no one is looking is evidence of his character. Without a moral compass directing his path, man will always choose evil. And after choosing it, he will try to cover up his sin or blame someone else for it.
Scripture bears this out...beginning in Genesis when Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, Eve blamed the serpent, and Adam blamed Eve; then they hid from God, thinking they wouldn't be found out.
Whether or not Rep.Weiner's actions were ever discovered, God knew. The Bible says, “You have sinned against the Lord, and be sure your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23). This holds true for all of us. Our God, who knows all and sees all, knows our every action, our every thought, and the motivation behind them.
While it's easy to point our fingers in judgment when someone falls prey to the tempter's snare, we should examine our own lives, thoughts, and actions lest we follow the same path.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Now that his moral failure has been exposed, Weiner must to face the consequences and embarrassment of his actions. His wife's trust in him has been destroyed, his constituents may ask for his resignation, and all areas of his personal and political life will be closely scrutinized...and rightly so. Who a man is, and what he does, when he thinks no one is looking is evidence of his character. Without a moral compass directing his path, man will always choose evil. And after choosing it, he will try to cover up his sin or blame someone else for it.
Scripture bears this out...beginning in Genesis when Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, Eve blamed the serpent, and Adam blamed Eve; then they hid from God, thinking they wouldn't be found out.
Whether or not Rep.Weiner's actions were ever discovered, God knew. The Bible says, “You have sinned against the Lord, and be sure your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23). This holds true for all of us. Our God, who knows all and sees all, knows our every action, our every thought, and the motivation behind them.
While it's easy to point our fingers in judgment when someone falls prey to the tempter's snare, we should examine our own lives, thoughts, and actions lest we follow the same path.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Where Are the Butterflies?
Two summers ago we planted a butterfly bush and perennial white and purple coneflowers in a backyard flower garden. Last summer we added knockout roses, irises, daylilies, lamb's ear, and garden phlox to a front yard flower garden. Butterflies are supposed to love them. Well, the irises, first round roses, and the spring daylily blooms have come and gone.
This week the first purple bloom opened on the butterfly bush, and the coneflowers are blooming their hearts out. I've seen a few hummingbirds and the bumblebees are out in full force. But so far, no butterflies.
In a few short weeks, I'm looking forward to having weekday mornings free to have devotions on the deck. While waiting for the butterflies, I'll enjoy a nutritious breakfast of Lance Peanut Butter Cheese Crackers and Diet Coke. I know, I know...it sounds horrible, but some habits take root and never leave. Beginning July 8, while the world is waking up and longing for that first morning cup of coffee, just think of me popping the top on a Diet Coke, opening a pack of Lance crackers, and kicking back for the morning.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Gazing into Heaven
Quite a buzz was created recently with Harold Camping's prediction of Christ's return on May 21st and the catastrophic end of the world following shortly thereafter. Well, May 21st came and went, and we're still here.
Mark 13:32 says,"But of that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone." Well, if Jesus (the Son) doesn't know the day or hour of his return for his children, what makes Harold Camping think God would reveal it to him? Should we anticipate and be ready for the day Jesus will return, most definitely. But why be consumed in a quest to know what God obviously does not want us to know, while making oneself look ridiculously stupid in the process? Our lives can be better spent living for God than standing around gazing into Heaven waiting for his return. A former pastor once said, "Don't be so heavenly minded, you are of no earthly good." Good advice...
"Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.” Acts 1:11
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Mark 13:32 says,"But of that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone." Well, if Jesus (the Son) doesn't know the day or hour of his return for his children, what makes Harold Camping think God would reveal it to him? Should we anticipate and be ready for the day Jesus will return, most definitely. But why be consumed in a quest to know what God obviously does not want us to know, while making oneself look ridiculously stupid in the process? Our lives can be better spent living for God than standing around gazing into Heaven waiting for his return. A former pastor once said, "Don't be so heavenly minded, you are of no earthly good." Good advice...
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Friday, June 3, 2011
The Woman In the Mirror
When I look in the mirror these days, the person who looks back at me isn't me...it's my mother! When did those lines on my face sneak in? And what about all those white streaks in my hair? No matter how much we may try to fight it, time takes it's toll on our lives and our bodies. Billions of dollars are spent on the quest for beauty and youth. But, we waste way too much time trying to impress others with our beauty and intellect, and not enough time looking for ways to make a difference in the lives of others. My goal is to perfect who I am on the inside....which will make me a better person on the outside.
James 1-23-25 says, "Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does." James 1:23-25
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
James 1-23-25 says, "Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does." James 1:23-25
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
Thursday, June 2, 2011
35 Days and Counting
After full-time employment for almost 26 years, retirement day is only 35 days away. Although I have dreamed of this day, I must say the uncertainty of "life after work" is a bit daunting. Why would a perfectly sane person give up the security of a paycheck and benefits in the midst of one of the worst recessions in recent history? Hmmmm....still not quite sure about that yet.
I have felt the pull of faith to "step out of the boat" like Peter in the Bible. Sometimes it's easy to get comfortable with the ordinary-ness of life while longing for something more. I want more...more of life...a deeper walk with my Savior, Jesus Christ...a closer relationship with my husband...and some precious memories with my grandchildren. As Sarah in Sarah Plain and Tall says, I "want to make a difference."
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
I have felt the pull of faith to "step out of the boat" like Peter in the Bible. Sometimes it's easy to get comfortable with the ordinary-ness of life while longing for something more. I want more...more of life...a deeper walk with my Savior, Jesus Christ...a closer relationship with my husband...and some precious memories with my grandchildren. As Sarah in Sarah Plain and Tall says, I "want to make a difference."
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
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