Author: Michelle

When Did We Forget?

I’m not endorsing it, neither am I condemning it, but I simply write this to ask this question. When did we forget that these are actors, playing a role? We must enjoy it, because we pay for it, not only with our money, but with our time and attention. If we think this is a true representation of who they are, then we must be living in more a fantasy world than the role they are portraying.

There has been a lot of backlash about the new Miley Cyrus video. I know this, because I am a parent, and this is one of the artists my child listens to. And as a parent, it is my responsibility to keep up with what is influencing her. I don’t read every magazine she reads, nor do I listen to every song she listens to, but I do monitor the news and other sites that pertain to her generation.

In all honesty, I have not seen the video the entire way through. I have seen enough of it, and I leave it at that. I will not pass a judgment one way or the other. The only reason being, I don’t feel a need to spend the time watching when I could be doing something else. I’m this way with most videos on line. Unless it relates specifically to the task at hand at that moment or is something that really grabs my attention, I’m not going to watch.

But it brings me back to the point, she is an actor, she is being paid to make music and portray a role. She is not being paid to raise our kids, and she certainly should not be held to such a high, unattainable standard, as some may think she should. It is the parents (or other responsible adult in the child’s life) to be the role model, to set the standard of what is right and wrong.  It is also the parents responsibility to talk with their child, to communicate, and to listen. And make informed decisions, not off the cuff, emotional reactions to something, when you don’t have all the facts.

I don’t write this to start any sort of wars, and quite frankly I’ll be surprised if it receives much traffic at all. I simply write it as a reminder to all, including myself, think and have your facts before you judge. Better yet, don’t judge at all. That’s not our calling. But do what is right for you (and yours) and let the rest take care of themselves.

 

W.I.P.S

Works in progress.

Now that things have settled down, I thought I would share some of my works in progress. It’s been a while since I’ve had the opportunity to sit in front of my sewing machine or do much in the way of other creative projects, but I did manage to squeeze in a few over the past few months.

Mystery Quilt – this was a class I took more than a year ago. I had finished the top, but decided it needed something more. I added two borders and took it to be quilted in July. Thankfully I was able to pick it up before we moved and I am now getting around to finishing the binding.

Next is my newest hobby to discover – Encaustics. This is the first time I’ve ever tried it and it was so much fun. I can’t wait to do more.

And finally, just a quick little something. I still need to add the lights inside, but it’s a glass block, embellished with stickers and a vinyl transfer. I saw this idea a few years ago and it’s always stuck with me. It makes a great night light, shelf decoration, whatever. You can put a ribbon around it and make it look like a Christmas present under a tree or change out the lights and ribbon and use it for any other holiday too. The possibilities are endless.

I’ll add to this page as I make progress or create new projects. Look for the link to WIPS at the top of the site by the Home & About Me links.

Introducing Melanie Blievernicht

For those of you who do not attend Journey Church of Acworth, please allow me to introduce you to a dear friend, Melanie Blievernicht. She is an amazing woman of God, who has followed the call He placed in her heart and has written two books.

Walking Faith Forward is her first, now in it’s second edition. Here is the synopsis from Barnes & Noble.

“In the second edition of this engaging weekly devotional, Melanie Blievernicht draws from lessons in her personal life and Biblical references to show you how to connect with God and to spread His word by concentrating on a specific spiritual focus area each week. Encouraged by Christ’s promise of guidance and hope, Walking Faith Forward uses inspiration and reflection to help you make God a part of your daily life.”

Having served with her, I see this example lived out everyday.

Her second book, just recently published, is Divorce Is Only Human: My Journey With God Through Divorce.

“From the author of Walking Faith Forward comes one woman’s spiritual path through the darkest part of her life… a time of deep pain, depression, and despair… but also one of hope, determination, healing, and triumph through faith.

“Every so often, a book comes along that the Holy Spirit will use to minister to the depth of human pain and suffering. This is one of those books… An amazing story of tragedy turned into healing… A woman’s sharing of her own trials in order to pass on the gift of hope to others… ”
Douglas Crumbly, Lead Pastor, Journey Church of Acworth, GA”

So take a moment, and stop by her site to say hello. And if you have a chance to meet her in person, give her a hug from me too.