Be Careful!

Confession:  I snicker every time I see somebody post "Be careful!" under a status update on Facebook.  The "Be careful!" people are everywhere.  For example:

Jill Jones

Getting ready to run my first marathon today!

     Bill Jones

     Be Careful!

or:

Janet Smith

Excited about spending the day in New York City!

     Jane Nelson

     Be Careful!

or:

Jerry Burk

At the airport waiting for the boarding call.  Can't wait to see my kids in a few hours.

     Donna Johnson

     Be Careful!   

You get my point, right?  I love the "Be careful!" people.  Somebody's gotta warn others of potential danger.  I find myself being the "Be careful!" mom at times.  I'll admit I'm tempted to bubble-wrap my kids on occasion.  I have a "Be careful!" daughter who likes to warn me of potential dangers.  But, I've decided I don't want "Be careful!" to be my life's motto.  I've found that most "Be careful!" people don't really live inspiring lives.  There comes a point in time when we have to stop listening to the "Be careful!" people and move forward with living.

I've been reading Katie Davis' book, "Kisses from Katie".  Katie is an adoptive mother of thirteen girls in Uganda.  She writes, "I'm living in the midst of the uncertainty and risk, amid the things that can and do bring physical destruction, because I am running from things that can destroy my soul:  complacency, comfort, and ignorance.  I am much more terrified of living a comfortable life in a self-serving society and failing to follow Jesus than I am of any illness or tragedy."  Did I mention that Katie is 22?  I don't think she listened to the "Be careful!" people much.

I was curious what the Bible has to say about being careful.  My quick search told me that most of the "Be careful" comments in the Bible had to do with sin.  Be careful how you think.  Be careful what you say.  Be careful not to turn to evil.  Be careful not to let bribes deceive you.  My favorite "Be careful!" verse is Ephesians 5:15-17, "So be careful how you live.  Don't live like ignorant people, but like wise people.  Make good use of every opportunity you have, because these are evil days.  Don't be fools, then, but try to find out what the Lord wants you to do."  I like the make good use of every opportunity part.  I want to make good use of every opportunity in my life...not sit around in fear because I'm too cautious.

I'm currently reading a "Be careful!" book.  It was assigned to us as part of our home study process and we need to read it before we adopt.  It's called Risk and Promise and is written by four brilliant doctors.  The premise of the book is to give adoptive parents the knowledge they need to navigate the health risks of children adopted from overseas.  It's an overwhelming read.  It almost asks the question, "Are you sure you want to adopt with all the potential health risks?"  While I'm glad I'm arming myself with all this info, I have to agree 100% with my husband when he said, "The child is already born.  What do we do about that?"  It's true.  Yes...this child may have a myriad of health issues that may plague him (or her) all his (or her) life.  However, it's time to stop being careful and move forward with what we know is right...giving him (or her) the love and care we have to give.

Yes...I admit I'm naive to this whole adoption thing.  I fully expect the unexpected.  I think that's the way it should be.  I don't know who said it (and I'm probably going to butcher it) but I heard somebody say that one of God's greatest gifts to us is not letting us know what the future holds.  Because if we knew how difficult it would be to follow His will for our lives, we would probably reject His plan and run the opposite direction.

So...I'm listening to the "Be careful!" people with one ear and keeping both eyes on God...being careful to make good use of every opportunity thrown my way.

I am a Tebow Hater

I am a Tebow hater.   I was given that label during a Facebook interaction on the topic of the Christ-following football player.  I said nothing negative about the guy, I just admitted that I don't have a school-girl crush on him.  He doesn't capture my heart...or my attention span.  Apparently, I'm not a good Christian...because the new rule is that people who love Jesus should also love Tim Tebow.

Personally, I don't know the guy.  I've never met him.  I've heard great things about him.  I've heard he builds orphanages.  I've heard he feeds hungry people and visits the sick.  I've heard he respects women.  I've heard he can throw a football.  What's not to like about the guy?

I've heard some jabs about him in the media.  Songs have been written about him.  Poses have been named after him.  His virginity is questioned.

Here's what I see happening.  Christians see Tebow run.  They see Tebow pray.  They see Tebow ridiculed.  They feel they need to compensate and defend, because they take it personally.  They elevate Tebow.

I have no problem with Tebow.  I don't dislike him.  I actually feel sorry for the guy.  He's probably one of the most misunderstood men on the planet right now.

But enough about Tebow.  What really bothers me is the height we've elevated the poor guy.  Yes...I said "we".  We...as in the Christian community.  I have to associate my name with that group because I call myself a Christ follower.  Even though Christians have a bad rep in the media...I'm one of "them".  As a Christ follower, I believe that Jesus loves his bride.  And his bride is The Church.  And The Church is all of us that believe in him, together as one group.  So...when Christians behave badly...they represent The Church...they represent me...and more importantly they represent Jesus.

So, what's my problem?  I'm embarrassed.  I'm embarrassed every time somebody claims that God helps Tebow win games.  Can God help somebody win a game?  Sure.  However, the belief that a god is pleased with a person's actions and grants him favors is a voodoo belief...not a Christian one.  If we use that line of thinking, then what is God trying to prove when Tebow's team loses?  Does God love Tom Brady more than Tim Tebow?  And what about Christian players on opposing teams?  If two Christ followers play against each other, who does God side with?  It's faulty logic and I can't seem to find scripture to back it up.    

I'm embarrassed every time I hear somebody talk about Tebow's 316 yards.  Coincidence?  Probably.  However, the belief in numbers is numerology...not Christianity.  Can God use numbers to make a point?  Of course.  

As a mom, I understand the frustration of having a child idolize a superstar who has questionable character.  I am trying to raise my children to have morals and standards...which gets harder and harder to do as time passes and superstars become edgier and edgier.  It's easy to become famous if you're naughty.  Believe me...I know.  I live in New Jersey, the land of misbehaving reality stars.  

Yes...it's refreshing to see somebody with character in the spotlight.  It's proof you don't have to compromise your beliefs to be somebody.

However, where in the Bible does it say it's ok to idolize superstars?  I'm not being legalistic...I just don't see how elevating people does anybody any good.  I'm guilty of it, too.  I have Christ-following idols.  I deeply admire Mother Teresa.  I adore Katie Davis.  I have tremendous respect for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  I'm in awe of all the unnamed people who risk their lives to save children from slavery and who are persecuted for their faith...outside of the spotlight.  I want to live my life with the courage and compassion that these people live(d) with...finding strength in Jesus.  I don't have Katie's poster hanging on my wall.  I don't own a Mother Teresa football jersey.  I don't pose like Dr. King in public places for photo ops to post on Facebook.

Here's a suggestion...instead of buying yourself a football jersey and posters of Tebow, find out what his favorite charity is and donate the money to that instead. 

In the meantime...I'll keep my crushes for my husband.  I'll let Tim Tebow be Tim Tebow..and I won't make him out to be anything more than a child of God.

Growing Our Family

The King of the Castle and I have talked about adopting a child (or children) since before Miss Mini Boss was born.  But, we didn't think the timing was right until recently.  I've been talking with other adoptive parents, doing internet research and last night we went to our first informational meeting.  My head is spinning with so many questions.  International or domestic?  Are we open to special needs?  Do we want a baby, or are we ok with older children?  It feels really strange to look at a list of special needs and say yes to some and reject others...knowing that there are children who need homes.  They need their basic needs met.  This is going to take a lot of wisdom and prayer.  But, I believe there is a child (or children) out there who belong in our home.

Our castle isn't huge, but we have an empty bedroom.  We have three empty seats in the mini-van.  We have access to medical care, education, food and clothing.  We even have instant siblings and a puppy who loves to cuddle.  We have love to give.  We are far blessed beyond what we deserve...so why not give it away to a child (or children) who have nothing?

Before we mentioned this to the kids, Mr. Smarty Pants came to me to talk to me about a dream he had.  He said, "I had a dream that everybody in my family died and I had to go across the sea to go live with another family.  They were really nice and took good care of me.  But, when I got older I wanted to go back to my country.  So I went back across the sea and a wild animal attacked and killed me." Woah.  My first thought was where did this fear come from?  Is he afraid of losing us?  Then it dawned on me.  Maybe he's empathizing with children who've lost everything.  It's really an unfathomable thought...especially for those of us in America who have running water, supermarkets full of food and closets full of clothes.  What's it like to lose EVERYTHING?  

Mother Teresa said, "I have come to realize more and more that the greatest disease and the greatest suffering is to be unwanted, unloved, uncared for, to be shunned by everybody, to be just nobody (to no one)."  I may not be a perfect parent.  Let me rephrase that...I am NOT a perfect parent.  However, I can want, love, care and accept a child (or children).

So, we begin this journey.  The questions will be answered in time.  This will be a long process, but I'm excited (and a bit nervous) about the possibilities.  

My 3 crazies

 ^"Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.  Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."  James 1:26, 27 (NIV)

Food Trucks!

So, I jumped the food truck craze...and I'm so glad I did.  It's like a crazy addiction.  I'll try food from one truck, and then I find I'm consumed with others I haven't tried, yet.  I get most of my research done at New York Street Food.  You want info about food trucks around the tri-state region?  Go to the website first.  If you're left insatiated after reading the latest food truck news on the blog then follow them on twitter, download their app and stalk the trucks yourself.

My first food truck culinary experience was with the Gorilla Cheese.  I smartly ordered the Triple Cream Brie with Prosciutto di Parma & Strawberry Preserves.  The flavor combo was to die for.  All my favorites together.  I found the bread to be a bit soggy, but that's my only complaint.  I'll order a thicker bread next time.  

Hint:  Long lines = good food worth waiting for

Food Truck Experience #2)  Kelvin Slush.  I found this truck on a hot day near Union Square.  How perfect...it was destiny.  On this particular day, they had an Arnold Palmer special.  I said, "Yes, please...with chopped basil on top!"  One layer of tea slush, followed by one layer of raspberry slush, topped with citrus slush.  The basil was my add-on...and I have no regrets.  All natural.  All delicious.  I lost track of time sipping this concoction while watching people meander around Union Square.  This is my new happy place in my mind when life gets stressful.

Food Truck Experience #3) Wafels & Dinges.  I've actually been drooling over this trucks tweets for weeks.  They taunt me with pictures and promises to satisfy both my sweet tooth and my savory tooth.  I was in the City a few weeks ago and I got a tweet from them saying they were in SoHo and closing shop within 30 minutes.  I ran 2 blocks, jumped on the subway, jumped off the subway and ran 3 more blocks.  I found a long line in front of the truck with 6.5 minutes to spare.  I hoped the experience would be worth it.  I doubt there are words to express what I discovered.  I looked over the menu, and then angels sang sweet songs around me when I saw the words, "de bacon-syrup wafel".  Oh, yes...I did.  They had me at bacon.  There is something sooooo wrong about bacon cooked into a waffle...but, then again...there's something soooooo right about it, too.  They call it scandalous...and as I seek to find the right word for it...I'd have to agree.  There are no other words to describe it.

Food Truck Experience #4)  Mexicue!  I found this truck parked at 5th & 59th yesterday.  I just ran the 5th Avenue Mile (Fastest mile I EVER ran...8:15!!!) and felt like celebrating.  Imagine my excitement to see food trucks at the finish line.  Had I known food trucks were waiting...I would've run a 7:15.  Could this day be more perfect?  I waited until King of the Castle ran his fastest mile (5:16!) and I dragged him over to the truck.  I ordered two Berkshire Pulled Pork Sliders (with pickled red onions & avocado smash) and King ordered two chicken tacos.  Mexicue's secret is the sauce.  I slathered it on my sandwiches and fell into a BBQ coma as we sat on a planter on 5th Avenue and watched inspirational runners of all ages finish their races.  A perfect day.  The pickled onions were so delicious I could've eaten them by themselves.  And avocado smash?  C'mon!  I live for guacamole.  It's the perfect food.  King of the Castle said his tacos were good.  I regret not stealing a bite from him.

Wafels & Dinges also had a truck at the finish line.  I thought I could finish my sliders and go back for waffles.  I REALLY want to try their "de throwdown wafel".  Since I have a HUGE crush on Bobby Flay, I cannot die without trying one.  But...regrettably, I didn't go back.  I'll continue to stalk them on Twitter and the next time I'm in the city I'll hunt them down.  I WILL eat the waffle that beat Bobby's waffle.

Speaking of good food...we walked past Macaron Cafe.  And by walked past, I mean walked past, turned around, entered the store, drooled at the counter and paid too much for "cookies" before walking out.  And by paid too much...I mean I would've paid more for these little bites of heaven.  And by cookies...I mean no words describe this decadent dessert.  O.K.  So Macaron Cafe isn't a food truck.  However, since I'm on the topic of food I had to mention them.  I ordered a grapefruit macaron and a raspberry macaron.  King of the Castle ordered a dark chocolate macaron.  All three were amazing.  The raspberry macaron didn't have the traditional ganache inside.  It had more of a jelly filling.  Brilliant.  If you haven't had a French macaron...go find one.  Now!  And savor every expensive bit.  Macarons are the new cupcake.  People will know you're cutting edge when they see you walking down 5th Avenue with a macaron in hand.  Bill Cunningham will take your picture and you will find yourself in the NY Times.  I promise.  (And if anybody knows of a macaron food truck...please inform me ASAP!)

So many food trucks, so little time.  When you see a food truck with a long line, make that your #1 priority.  You won't be disappointed. 

Fitness Magazine Mind Body & Spirit Games

King of the Castle ran the NYC Marathon in '09 with his brother.  Up until that point, I thought that running was the most ridiculous sport ever.  Three months later, I bought some running shoes and hit the streets.  I enjoyed it, surprisingly enough.  I felt free.  I felt like I could run from anything bothering me...if only for 30 minutes, or so.  King of the Castle talked me into signing up for a NYRR (New York Road Runners) membership and I ran my first race on April 3, 2010.  It was the Scotland Run, a 10k in Central Park.  Yes...THE Central Park.  The one in New York City.  I did OK.  I ran it in 1 hour, 14 minutes and 2 seconds.  I was hooked.  I loved running with the crowd.  I loved the excitement and energy.  I signed up for another 10k and ran that a month later, knocking 4 minutes off my time.

Since then, I've run 12 races.  Two of those races were half marathons.  I ran the NYC Half in March of this year, with some good friends of mine.  I also ran the Queens Half-Marathon in July.  My favorite race is the Fitness Magazine Mind, Body & Spirit Games in Central Park.  It's a fun health festival for the entire family.  The men run a 4 mile race first, followed by the women running the same distance.  Then the kids get to run their races.  This was the second year we ran this race as a family and we'll continue with the tradition.

I was excited about my race.  Since I've been running a lot more (and since the weather was PERFECT for running...55 degrees), I could feel a PR on the horizon.  I found my way to the pink bin...the second to last bin.  I determined this was the last time I run in the pink bin.  I deserve to run in the light blue bin.  Motivation #1.  I immediately spotted a redhead girl in the light blue bin wearing a University of Oregon T-shirt.  Those who know me well, know that I am a huge fan of Oregon football.  Redhead Duck Fan became my new imaginary BFF.  I was determined to catch her by the end of the race so I could say Hi.  Motivation #2.  

I won't bore you with the details of the race.  But...I did PR with a time of 40 minutes and 53 seconds.  This was about 100 seconds faster than my last race.  I came in 1,761st place...out of 2,570.  Nothing to blog about...except that I ran my personal best.  Yay!  And, I did pass Redhead Duck Fan and said "Hi" to her at the end of the race.  I'd better be in the light blue bin at the next race.

The festival was done well.  Lots of free goodies and live music.  A Pilates instructor lead us in warm-ups before the races.  Some Biggest Loser people were rumored to be there.  I personally didn't see any of them, not that I'd recognize them if I did.  Some NFL players were around to pass out medals to the kids.  The kids got really fantastic swag bags filled with jump ropes, Nerf footballs, water bottles, T-shirts and even a Rubik's cube.  I haven't seen one of those since the 80's.

The kids had a terrific time during their races.  Miss Personality and her daddy lined up with the other 3-year-old girls.  After talking about this race for weeks, she suddenly changed her mind and didn't want to run.  That attitude lasted until the other girls took off and she quickly changed her mind...again.  She does that often.

Miss Personality, #370

Miss Personality LOVES her medal!

Mr. Smarty Pants was in a more serious group of athletes...the 7-9 year old boys.  They were so excited about running they took off before the official "Go" signal was given.  He ran his heart out and still had a smile on his face as he crossed the finish line.

Still Smiling!

Miss Mini Boss was the tiniest girl in her 10-12 year old division.  But, she's bleeds determination.  She isn't intimidated by anybody.  She's #1051.

It was a great day.  Miss Mini Boss said, "I don't care that I didn't get first place.  I tried my hardest and I got a medal.  I also got to spend a fun day in New York City with my family."  That about sums it up!

September

Its been two years since I've blogged.  Enough is enough.  I'm jumping back on the blogwagon.  I do participate in a food blog set up by my mom.  You can check out what's cooking over there at familyseasonings.net.

I'll start this blog thing off with a photo post.  Last Monday I grabbed my camera and went into the city.  I needed some time to reflect and think about some upcoming decisions.  Sometimes the best way to figure out what's important is to get out of your current situation and view life through the eyes of others.  I found myself in the Financial District at the site of the World Trade Center.  Here's what I saw: