CLARISSA'S CORNER

After several days of technical difficulties, I thought this particular blog was destined not to be or maybe I was just looking for an excuse...

I had promised some "lighter" blogs and I really looked for some material this past weekend. I wanted to tell you about 400+ curlers and four hours to make a curly perm (I'm not sure if I look like Shirley Temple or a poodle), shopping trips, the newest book, or the antics of a three year old parading in his momma's high heels carrying a Victoria Secret Bag. But sometimes things will just eat at your heart until they are voiced and that is what has happened with this Memorial Day Blog.

Then Monday evening, a dear friend's mother lost her fight to cancer. As she promised, she fought long and hard for just a few more days with her family. She will be sorely but we will not forget the legacy that lives on through her children and grandchildren.

What about those who don't have someone to share their story, who are, in a sense, forgotten faceless nameless soldiers. I heard of a news story last night telling of a motorcycle convoy that started in California transporting the remains of three soldiers to their final resting place at Arlington National Cemetery. The bikers are a part of the Missing in America project, veterans hung veterans who have not been buried appropriately. As the motorcycles rolled through Kentucky, these three highly decorated military men and their convoy were honored by a patriotic crowd.

As I listened to this story, my mind reflected back to my visit to Arlington National Cemetery. The beauty of the rolling hills, row after row of white stone, memorials of historic battles and events. For a patriotic American, it is a scene of awe and wonder. Even as I recall my visit, tears come to my eyes for the sacrifice paid by so many, a testimony to the freedom we have this day.

So to our veterans, to our men and women in the military today serving at home and abroad, I say a very heartfelt "Thank You". Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, your dedication, and your tireless efforts on behalf of the United States of America. May God bless you and your families is my prayer.

Until next time...joy 2 u! ~ C ~

Had I been blogging one year ago, this would have been my post:

I remember having breakfast with my family, ALL of MY family (even my Granny made the long journey to NC) at my brother’s home in Shallotte, together in North Carolina for the first time in maybe six years. My heart skipped a beat, maybe several beats, tears came to my eyes, when I heard the tragic news…surely there was some mistake. This close-knit family was preparing for graduation ceremonies and engagement announcements but it was true. Steven Curtis Chapman’s young daughter was killed in a tragic accident the night before. At that moment, I didn’t know which one but I couldn’t imagine the Chapman family without their three adorable petite little adopted daughters.

Being only a fan, even though for many years, I was astonished at the grief I felt for this family. Maybe my grief was compounded because my family was together. I remember when Kevin and Donna first moved to North Carolina, we promised ourselves frequent visits. But with work, school, church, sickness, and a 9 to 12 hr drive, it seemed really hard to get together often. So to be sitting around the table, just talking, laughing, enjoying each other...especially with the antics of my three precious nephews, I could hardly bear to imagine what life would be like, what the future could be like….

So we played croquet and basketball till we were exhausted, blew bubbles until there was no more bubble solution in town, shopped till we dropped, roasting marshmallows late at night, watching movies, skateboarding..making as many memorable moments as humanly possible, capturing every one of them to savor later, taking pictures galore (but, of course!). Yet Saturday morning came too soon…and this time it was a physical ache to say goodbye. We had our “God bless us until we are together again” toast with cream soda and binding together as a family in prayer. With tearful hugs and sniffling boys who just couldn’t understand why we couldn’t stay together "forever", I never wanted so much to leave Kentucky behind for just one more day, one more hour, a few more moments.

I have followed the Chapman family’s journey through their grief with my own tears and prayers on their behalf. I have the utmost admiration for this family – what a testimony. Their faith has remained true and they have not been silent through the struggles but continue to minister to others with their story and their lives, with the insight they have gathered, living the truth out loud of Jesus Christ and his work in each of their lives. Through Maria’s story and their continued journey, hearts have been touched, lives changed...mine is only one. What a legacy!

So today, a year later, as I remember Maria, I ask myself “What would my life be like TODAY if I knew TOMORROW? What will my legacy be? What will YOUR legacy be? I encourage you to take a moment and make a memory today, hug a loved one, send a note to a long lost friend, play with a child, right a wrong, listen to the hurting, giggle at absolutely nothing, take a photo of this ordinary day. Your life is precious…leave a legacy in the hearts of those you love.

Until next time..with hope! ~ C ~

P.S. Thanks for hanging in there while I have gotten some posts off my heart and mind -(isn’t that what a blog is for?) But, I promise, fun posts are ahead!

When Jeanette first mentioned Riverdance, I was reluctant - 2 1/2 hr drive (one way)an auction on Saturday, and on my excuses went. But I am so glad we went - it was the break I needed.

Our adventures started trying to find a parking space in downtown..hmmm - we choose Fountain Square because it was the same street as the Center. Well, at least, it was when we entered. The elevator took us up to the Square where we were totally turned around. After a few minutes and a couple of pics, we found our street. Thankfully, we were only a few blocks from the Arnoff Center. (My aunt is scheduled for surgery and I was concerned about a long walk for her).

The Arnoff Center is a newer building with decor perfect for a performance such as Riverdance. We were quite envious of those in the box seats but completely forgot about that as the first note came from the pipes. We were totally carried away with the story of Ireland's heritage. Although I have always been partial to the fiddler, and this one simply swept me off my feet, all of the musicians were very talented. In addition to the fiddle, pipes, keyboard, and percussionist (he added so much), the saxophone was an added surprise. The dancers, whether soloists, duos or as the entire troupe, were incredible. The Flamenco Dancer in her beauty and passion was an unexpected force. Everyone added to the beauty of the story and yet added a piece of themselves to the performance. The Russian Ballet Co made us catch our breath with the height of their leaps and their throws - it was just wild. The acapella voices raised in harmony telling the story of sorrow and joy. All of these talented and very accomplished individuals make up the whole of Riverdance.

But the song that embodies Riverdance to me was sung by Michael Samuels, this incredible baritone singer, whose voice filled the house. It was a powerful, bring you to tears, thought provoking song and he delivered. Here are the lyrics to "Heal Their Hearts" and few of pictures, some from the Riverdance website and brochure and a few of my own.

In the deep night
From a dark space
I hear voices calling out in heartache
They are wounded
They are broken
But their spirit rises when awoken
Yes, they may be poor in birth - but
Yes, how great each one is worth
Heal their Hearts
Feed their Souls
Their lives can be golden if your love enfolds

In their dreamtimes
In their visions
How they always hunger after freedom
Every hard load
Every dark road
Leads them on to reach a new horizon
Yes, they may be poor in birth - but
Yes, how great each one is worth

Heal their Hearts
Feed their Souls
Their lives can be golden if your love enfolds

Freedom
Lord, where is our freedom?
When will our hope begin?
Lord, what of the promise you made?
When will it come?
We have waited for the time
For the truth to live, when justice will shine
Too long those hands of greed
Held on and made us bleed
When will your people breathe
Lord, will it come?

Lord, what of our children?
Will they always depend on you?
Lord, why are they scattered and torn
And their young hearts in chains
How they hunger for liberty
Feel their hatred of poverty
Let their spirit rise, soaring free
Lord let it come
Our day will come

All in all....Riverdance is a captivating must-see!

Joy 2 u...until next time! "C"

....the newest member of the Hodge family. My brother and his wife have adopted!! I have a new nephew (what's a girl gotta do for a niece?). He weighs 2.5 pounds 3 oz and is 10 inches long with tan hair. He was born on March 1st, 2009 and arrived home this Wednesday. Meet Chico Hodge...

Isn't he the most adorable little guy! I had never heard of his breed..a Chi-Wennie. Honest! I thought my family was making it up(I mean REALLY!) He is part Chihuahua (Keagy has been begging for one) and part Dachshund (my brother's secret wish - who knew?) He is all ears and I do mean all ears - they really do stick out all the time and already he has a nickname, Chi Chi, that is longer than his name. Oh, and he's a stylish pup with his very own "Lucky One" puppy outfits. So Chico welcome to your new crazy, wonderful family!

Joy 2 u..."C"

A few weeks ago I was priviledged to watch the Hallmark Hall of Fame movie "The Courageous Heart of Irena Sendler". This amazing story tells of Irena, a young Polish woman in World War II, who saved 2,500 Jewish children from tiny babies to teens from death by smuggling them through the Polish Underground. When the Nazis walled up the Polish Jews in order to keep them cornered for shipment, Irena would visit the ghetto trying to persuade parents to let her smuggle out their children using false identities. She kept a record of each child's Jewish name, Polish name, and address on pieces of paper that she hid in glass jars so that the families could be reunited after the war.

However, even with all the precautions, she was arrested, tortured for three months having her feet and legs broken. She was to be executed but was rescued before the execution took place. Irena choose to make sacrifice after sacrifice for children who were not even her own and even then worried that she wasn't doing enough. Today, story after story of rescued children has come to light. What a courageous woman!

As I watched the movie, I thought of the courageous women in my own life and their untold stories: My mom lives the moto to love others but to tell them Jesus loves them even more. She is self-less in her care of others even though she is ill herself. As a pastor's wife, she is an awesome encourager of others, always baking or cooking for a family in need and providing a listening ear. As a mom, she has always encouraged her children to reach for the stars, to believe they can do anything with the Lord's help and strong determination. She has instilled a love for reading books and music of all kinds. But most of all, she always came up with cool ways to study the Bible and encourage a deeper hunger for the things of the Lord within us. I am so thankful for her influence on my life. I love you mom!

My Granny, as a single mother, who made so many sacrifices for her children and her grandchildren. She is still always here taking care of us, cooking, cleaning, etc. But even more importantly, we know that there is someone praying for us - she is a true prayer warrior and her life is a living testimony of the miraculous healing power of a God who can take the broken pieces and make them into a mighty portrait of grace. Thank you Granny for all of your years of care..I love you!

My Grandma Maggie, though gone now, always kept a diary and encouraged me to do the same..so here today I have a blog because of her influence.

So many other women who have been placed in my life, whose examples are forming me, even now, into who I am. My aunt Dorothy, who has always been like another grandmother to us, taught me to crochet, made the best Chef Boy R Dee pizzas to enjoy on our Friday evening visits. But my most favorite memories are the privilege I had to take her and Uncle Joe to church on Sunday mornings. My aunt, Polly, who is always up to taking a trip with the "girls". My sister-in-law, Donna, a stay-at home Mom, who juggles so many responsibilities with a husband and three young sons who are on the go all the time, yet she stil finds time to be so creative. So many wonderful ladies as I've grown up in the church: Sis. Howard (our pastor's wife in Ohio), Sis. Oxendine, Sis. Thomilson (awesome organ player and her strawberry rhubarb cobbler was beyond words), Sis. Lee (my first baby sitter), and so many others..the list could go on and on.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention my dear friend and mentor, Sis. Margie,who has been such an encouragement to me with her stories of faith, her loving spirit, and listening ear. She saw a young woman with a great load of grief, took her into her life, and has made all the world of difference. Oh, but she will tell you just how it is, too!! I am so thankful for her friendship.

But there is another group of women, my single friends, some widows, some who aren't married (yet). Though they may not be mothers, biologically, they are still women of influence who deserve to honored. They are making a difference in the lives of so many others, including your children, some as missionaries, some as mentors, Sunday School Teachers, Professionals, and so on..these women are the needed shining examples for a younger generation. I am so blessed by your presence in my life!!

And my list could go on..mothers who have gone on that we miss dearly, mothers who mourn the loss of their own children, our military wives and mothers, volunteers who make an incredible difference...so many important women in our lives..so whoever you are, where ever you may be today, whatever path life finds you on, whatever your circumstance, you are loved, you are appreciated, your sacrifice is noticed! Today and every day is your day! I pray that you will be blessed and honored! Don't let this day go by without leting someone know how much they mean to you today!

Happy Mother's Day!

Joy 2 u..."C"

Those who knew me best, know that I am not usually the outspoken crusader who boycotts, rallies, or prepares petitions for just causes. I am more of a background supporter.

But this year, my heart has been stirred by story after story..some so scary and unbelievable that I want to deny these things are happening TODAY in the world in which I live.

We know that Christians in other nations are suffering and even some are making the ultimate sacrifice for their faith...with joy! But maybe those of us living in the United States of America are taking our freedoms for granted! It's not a sacrifice for us to drive to church on Sunday morning (if we feel like it), our children are not being taken away because we are Christians, we don't face imprisonment for our beliefs! At least not yet...but could that change?

Recently,the Department of Homeland Security sent out a special report on rightwing extremism to law enforcement agencies nationwide. On page 2 of the assessment, it was noted that rightwing extremism in the United States could include groups dedicated to a single issue, such as opposition to abortion or immigration. It also included concerns about the proposed imposition of firearm restrictions and those who are against this act. I was astonished! To count pro-lifers and veterans among the most dangerous of domestic terrorists sent a chill through my soul. Who will be next?

I wondered if I could be as coureageous as Ms. Carrie Prejean, Miss CA and first runner up for Miss USA 2009, who spoke from her heart, stayed true to her beliefs at "considerable personal cost". I have to ask myself..do I really believe she lost the title because she stood up for marriage as defined between one man and one woman? What future sacrifice could I be asked to make in order to uphold the beliefs I hold as truth?

Our nation and our world are facing some of our greatest challenges: threats of war are on every side, terrorism, the possible pandemic outbreak of the H1N1 virus and on and on. What about the economic crisis we are facing, the staggering number of jobs lost, homes foreclosed, and loss of future security? What family is not affected by illness or trouble? What parent's aren't worried about the choices of their children?

Dear Readers, where is America's Hope? I believe that our hope lies in the Lord Jesus Christ and He is the God of the Impossible Situation. So no matter what we are facing today, or how it looks, or what the future holds tomorrow, let us look to Him!

I hope you will join me on Thursday, May 9th, the National Day of Prayer, to take a few minutes in prayer for our nation, our leaders, our communities, and our families. Furthermore, not just on this one day set aside but each day let's not forget to stand in the gap! Each one makes a difference but a three-fold cord is even harder to break.

Prayer...is America's Hope!!

Praying for you and yours...until next time!! "C"

Through the years of many vacations and several moves, our family has discovered some favorite places to eat...I mean we will travel hours and miles out of our way just to stop by...these restaurants are just that good!! I still remember Sambo's pancakes and Mililo's Pizza from St. Paul, MN, O'Grady's in Jackson, MS, and so on. Just to prove my point, my brother drove hours out of his way to get Richard's Steak Sandwiches in Hamilton, OH to surprise my family with dinner Friday night! I didn't realize it had been 13 years since he had tasted one but I think they still met ALL of his memories and expectations. To say we were delighted is an understatement!

As you can probably tell, we had a good visit with my brother's family although it was incredibly short. It's amazing how fast the hours pass when you are trying to savor every moment. They brought some beautiful flowers for Mom and Gran as early Mother's Day Presents. Dawson is writing a book..I am so totally amazed at his creative imagination. Jaden is still all about legos...he even found the coolest Lego Tic - Tac - Toe while in West Virginia. Who comes up with all of these ideas? And Keagy..what can I say: He is definitely a sweetheart and so funny! He cracks me up when he talks so fast (kind of like someone else I know (LOL)! We stayed up until after 1:00 in the morning playing Uno, watching Flipper, and just hangin' out. Though exhausted, no one wanted to go to bed! Morning came way too early and then I was off to an auction and they were hittin' the road!!

I am so thankful for this unexpected surprise visit!!!

Until next time...I hope you will count your blessings as well!! "C"