Scavenger Hunt Winners

Congratulations Bold & Free
Scavenger Hunt Winners!

1st: Ruthie
2nd: Mel

Congratulations Ruthie and Mel.
Please email me your snail mail addresses.

I would like to personally thank the following lovely
women who contributed prizes and co -hosted this event:

Deena - Pretty in Pink
Robbie Iobst - Joy Dance
Megan - Prisoner of Hope
Tonya - Mother-wit
Flea - The Good Flea

Jerri Phillips
Kay - Loop De Loops
Mollye - Shezadoozey
Loretta - Complementary Thoughts
Sharon - Rose of Sharon

I am rewarding you this Kind Blogger award.
Special thanks and big hugs to Dawn who awarded it to me.

I'm also awarding it to all who participated in the hunt.
Thanks for your participation.

Bold & Free Scavenger Hunt

This Post Will Stay at the Top of The Blog Until Contest is Over.

Please Scroll Down For Newer Posts.

Welcome to the Bold & Free Scavenger Hunt!

March 15- 30, 2008

Rules:

1. Visit each blog and hunt for answers to their questions.
2. Write down the answers and email to the address in my profile.
3. Leave a comment on this post.
4. Those who have followed directions and correctly answered all the questions will be entered into the drawing for 1^st and 2^nd prize. As you can see, we have many great prizes! Look at all the Starbucks Gift Cards!
5. Participating blog’s are not eligible to win prizes but are free to play.

First Prize:

• 3 Candle Footed Plate with Decorative Rocks
• Floral place cards and napkin rings
• Hand- made tear drop earrings
• Victorian post cards
• Glamour Girls Tag Album
• $5, $10 & $15 Starbucks Gift Cards
• Mosaic by Amy Grant
• Finding Favor with the King by Tommy Tenny
• 5 X 7 matted flower picture (not pictured)
• Chocolate Easter Eggs in mug (not pictured)

Second Prize:

• 2 photo greeting cards (not pictured)
• The Other Daughter by Miralee Ferrell
• Laundry Tales by Robbie Iobst & various authors
• God’s Favorite House by Tommy Tenny
• Winnie the Pooh Book Plates
• Easter Stickers
• $5 & $10 Starbucks
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Heart
• Candle and baby chick (not pictured)
• Burma Shave Album

Ready, Set, Go!

Bold & Free
My five part series is on ____________.
Why is my heart breaking?

Complementary Thoughts
Who's my favorite musician?
Who is the best Valentine?

The Good Flea
Whose Bucket List was recently featured on my blog?
From where did the Good Flea's family recently move?

Joy Dance
My first blog was Tuesday September 18th - what was the title?
Who is my favorite writer?

Loop De Loops
How many blogs do I link to on the sidebar?
What did I post about on November 14, 2007?

Mother-wit
Who else is posted on the "Best of Me"?
What was my first presentation?

Pajamas Playmates and Bread pudding
What was the name of Estelle Caroline's hog? See post starting with Recollections…

Ponderings from the Path
In November 2007, I gave Bob Smiley and award. Why did I choose him?
What is the purpose of Any Soldier?

Prisoner of Hope
What did Jan try to bribe me with to join her on a lunch date? (11/6)
Where is Megan going to hold the book launch party for Searching for Spice? (10/2)

Pretty In Pink
What's my hubby's name?
What's my fave color?

Rose of Sharon
What did my son Hayden dress up as for Halloween? (11/1)
What was my very first post about and when was it? (8/19)

Shezadoozey
What long standing TV series has the same name of one of Mollye's collages?

Those who include a link on their blog will get an additional entry but they must leave a comment so I'll know to include them twice. :)

Special thanks to Loretta for the inspiration to create this contest. Her stuff is way more elaborate and detailed. Check out her site here.

Hurry! Contest ends 3-30-08!

Spring Has Spung Give Away!

Spring is in the air and Giveaway's abound. Dawn has two very cool items on her blog. Be sure to check out her Spring Giveaway and her Pay it Forward Post.

The Shack by William P. Young - Review

There is no doubt in my mind that this is a powerful book. Will it change the way our generation sees God? I hope so. Our generation needs books like this to point us to the gentle loving God William Young portrays.

However, while this story is based on a true story, it is fiction and we need to remember that. Some churches are studying it in small groups. It’s a great discussion book for a book club, but I wouldn’t base a Bible study on it unless you are using scripture along with it. Perhaps Young will write a study guide at some point.

Though the topic and concept is excellent, the writing tends to lag a bit when Mack dialogs with the trinity.

Is it as good as Pilgrims Progress? I don’t think that's a fair comparison. It’s like comparing Jane Austin’s Pride and Prejudice to Karen Kingsbury’s Ever After, both wonderful books, but very different. John Bunyan’s Pilgrims Progress is suitable for children. However, I wouldn’t read The Shack aloud to my children due to the brutal kidnapping and murder of a young girl.

An anointed book about the power of forgiveness and the merciful love our Heavenly Father. If you haven’t read it yet, you don’t know what you’re missing.

Friend in You Award

Thanks eMom for this award.

I would also like to honor the following
Bold & Free Regulars.
Thanks for your support and encouragement:

Deena - Pretty in Pink
eMom - Chrysalis
Kathi - Feathering My Nest
Paula - Grace Reign
Heather Diane Tipton
L - Hynson Family Notes
Jerri Phillips
Robbie Iobst - Joy Dance
Kay - Loop De Loops
Dawn - Dawn's Daily Life
Tonya - Mother-wit
Niki - My Journey
Megan - Prisoner of Hope
Sharon - Rose of Sharon
Loretta - Complementary Thoughts
Mimi - Listen to Your Grammie
Flea - The Good Flea
Toia - Designer's Original
Chelf - Chelf Space
Randy Jo - Randy Jo's Retreat
Steven - The Desert Shall Bloom
Mel - Monday through Sunday

Wordless Wednesday - #9 Easter

The kids after Easter egg hunt. Egg's contain $.

Beautiful ending to a beautiful day.
Easter sunset from our back yard.

Stay Out of That Box

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

-Romans 8:1 (ESV)

Even though Paul wrote this in the Spring of A.D. 57, it isn’t hard to imagine him sitting in front of his window and listening to the Holy Spirit as he writes. He was likely in either Corinth or Cenchrea at that time, on his third mission’s trip. Paul writes this letter to the Roman church to prepare the way for his journey there. Both Jews and Gentiles attended the Roman church and the Jews felt judged by the Gentiles who didn’t understand why they felt the need to observe the old dietary laws and sacred holidays. They wanted the Jews to step into their box. Through this letter (Romans), God reveals His plan for Jews and Gentiles to worship together in harmony, without condemnation.

At this present time, without regard to what has transpired before, there is no disapproval, strong censure of reproof. I am no longer judged unfit because I am in Christ Jesus. I have His power and grace. I know who I am in Christ and how He values me.

This passage is beautiful in its simplicity. I do not have to accept condemnation from other Christians or the enemy. I have grace and freedom in Christ Jesus. When condemnation comes my way, I’ll examine the source. What or who is making me feel this way? Conviction is not the same as condemnation. Conviction is a check in my spirit to correct something. Condemnation makes me want to crawl under a rock and hide.

This verse speaks life and freedom to Christian’s for all time. Though we may not have the issues of the Roman church, we face our own issues. Is someone trying to fit you into a box? Memorize and reflect on this verse. And stay out of that box!

Thank you Father, that we don’t have to carry the burden of guilt, shame and condemnation. Thank you for your grace and mercy. Help us continually walk in freedom and grace- free from the chains of condemnation. In Jesus precious name, AMEN

Bold & Free Prayer - Marriage Focus

Your invited to our Bold & Free prayer ministry meeting!

Date: March 25th
When: 1:00 pm
Where: Parker, CO

This month we are featuring marriage.
Please bring a photo of your spouse to the meeting.

Please arrange for childcare as we do not have the facilities.
Email me for location address.

If you do not live in the area and/or you would like prayer for your marriage,
please leave a comment below.

At the Foot of the Cross

I went to the cross today, on a little hill on the outskirts of town, with some of my closest friends. It was peaceful at the foot of the cross. Quiet, reflective silence greeted us. I heard the wind playing in the pines before it reached my face. Yet, I hardly noticed as I felt the caress of the Son.

The cross is so much more than a religious symbol or an icon of piety. It’s precious to me because it’s where my savior gave his life for my sins. Isn’t that amazing? Jesus gave His life for me! And He did it for you too!

Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice.

Thank you for your grace and mercy.

Thank you for your love.

But the fact is, it was our pains he carried- our disfigurements, all the things wrong with us. We thought he brought it on himself, that God was punishing him for his own failures. But it was our sins that did that to him, that ripped and tore and crushed him- our sins! He took the punishment, and that made us whole. Through his bruises, we get healed.

-Isaiah 53: 4-5

Sandi Patty Via Dolorosa/The Old Rugged Cross

So beautiful it will bring tears to your eyes - especially the last part.

Wordless Wednesday #8 - The First Sign of Spring!

Happy Easter!
He Is Risen!

Searching For Spice by Megan DiMaria

What a breath of fresh air. Megan DiMaria has a pulse on the Boomer generation. I love that a woman my own age is the main character - not just somebody’s mom. Linda’s thoughts and feelings so closely mirrored my own; I had to take a break to reflect on some of them. What insight!

Linda becomes frustrated juggling her responsibilities and attempting to knock Jerry, her husband of nearly twenty-five years, out of “comfortable” into sizzling mode. Things are beginning to get spicy. However, constant interruptions from busted appliances, her kids and work are interfering with Linda and Jer’s romantic rendezvous.

My favorite part of the book is a remarkable reconciliation between Carol and Linda. I was literally sobbing. I won’t spoil it for you; you’ll have to read it for yourself.

I am amazed that this is Megan’s debut book. She turns a phrase with such a creative flare you would swear she was a multi-published author. Tyndale has a gem in Megan. I can hardly wait to read her next book. Thankfully, I won’t have to wait too long; it’s released early this fall.

Utimate Blog Party

Thanks for stopping by my blog party! I’m always excited to meet new blog buddies (BBFF’s – best blog friends forever). In honor of our blog party, I’ve added two new games to my sidebar and two virtual pets. Enjoy them and feel free to post them on your own blogs.

Additionally, anyone who links me and leaves a comment is welcome to take this Color of Friendship Award for their blog. Isn’t blogging fun? Please come back and join us for the Bold and Free Scavenger hunt March 15-30. Enjoy great prizes and meet new blogging friends.

My DH and I recently celebrated our 25th anniversary; both our children married this past summer and my elderly MIL now lives with us. At the beginning of the year, the Lord gave me the word “New Beginnings” and so far, 2008 has been full of change. Join me as I learn to adjust to an empty nest and grown children; living with my MIL and my best friend moving to a new state. I know this is just the beginning - there’s more change on the way.

Each month, on the last Tuesday of the month, we meet for prayer. The Bold & Free Prayer Group next meets on March 25th at 1pm. If you’re in the Denver area and would like to join us, please email me for further information. If you need prayer and are unable to make the meeting, please leave a comment and we’ll include you in our prayers.

Photo was taken on 3-5-08, on our 25th anniversary.

Dear God, My Heart is Breaking

Dear God,

My heart is breaking and I don’t know how to do this. How do I grieve and continue to move through this? Chocolate therapy is not working. What I really need is you, your comfort, your peace.

Two and a half years ago, you sent me a very special gift in the form of my BFF Sharen. Now she’s moving back to the very place I said I’d never go again. Who says you don’t have a sense of humor? Now I’ll gleefully visit just to see her.

This is a deep sense of loss and I’m having chest pains. I don’t think it’s my illness. It’s just that my heart is breaking. Will it ever feel better?

I went to my allergist today - over by Sharen’s house and the *Famous* Starbucks. (We call it the Famous Starbucks because we saw Ed MacFrey and Clint Hurdle there.) You know, I rarely get coffee by myself. Sharen is in her new town, finding a house. When I called, she encouraged me to go alone.

It was nearly abandoned. I was so out of sorts I ordered the wrong drink. I didn’t stay. I was too sad thinking about days to come. (I’m going to have to find a new allergist.) On my way out of the parking lot, I knew it was the end of an era. There’s not too many reasons left to drive across the Great Divide.

Why do I feel like Jonah, complaining about something that you gave me in the first place? I’m grateful for the time we’ve had. Selfishly, I want her to stay… and yet I know it’s time for her to go. Yes, you called her and you have great plans for her in that new town. I know you have wonderful plans for me too. But right now, in this moment, it doesn’t feel like it.

I thought about putting an ad on Craig’s List for another friend like Sharen. These are just some of her unique personality strengths:

• Easy going
• Extrovert
• Real and genuine
• Has overcome her past
• Yearns to grow in the Lord
• Gift of encouragement
• Fun-loving
• Writer
• Able to Get Starbucks at a moments notice
• Likes to shop but isn’t addicted
  
• Has grown children and a solid marriage
• Young in body and spirit
• Loves God and her family

Never mind. As you can see, she is irreplaceable. I know we’ll still get to see each other, but neither of us is rich so it won’t be as often as we’d like.

Father, I need your help to get through this. I didn’t expect it to hurt this much. Comfort and protect her too. Bless her move and help her to find a good friend who will love her as much as I do.

Thanks for listening God. I love you.

Happy Birthday Tonya!

Take It To The Bank

“So is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11 (NIV)

Every word God speaks is true. He doesn’t exaggerate or use the same empty, meaningless platitudes that we have become accustomed to hearing. Each word can be trusted to meet its mark and achieve the purpose for which He spoke.

So, why do I allow the enemy to steal the words God has spoken to me? Why do I question if I heard it right or if God really meant it? I know His words are true And if they are true today, they will continue to be true ten or twenty years from now. I receive the promise of God. I know that his words are meaningful and purposeful. I believe in His promise. I believe the words He spoke into my life and the visions He’s given me. I know that I know that I know that God is ever faithful and so I will be patiently wait – even if it takes a lifetime. His word is so trustworthy, I can take it to the bank.

Thank you Father that your words are true, powerful and well chosen. You are Truth, your words give life. I believe and accept the promises of Your word, even when my life circumstances seem bleak. You have spoken. Therefore, I’ll claim your promises and I’ll hold onto them until they come to pass. Your word is so true and dependable I can take it to the bank!

Awards

Friendship Award, Words For The Journey

Thank you Sharon for this Friendship Award. I’d like to give it to all my friends at WFTJ Chrisitian Writers Guild. You have all been such an inspiration to me. Thank your for your friendship an encouragement.

Loretta - Complementary Thoughts

Danica - Dream, Believe, Achieve

Robbie - Joy Dance

Darcie - Joy in the Litter Box

Diane - Let’s Talk, Mom!

Kay - Loop de Loops in La La Land

Stacey & Michelle - Meet Me At the Intersection

Megan – Prisoner of Hope

Tonya - Mother-wit

Anne - The Other Anne Rice

Heather – Heather Diane Tipton

Sharen - The Fav Five

Spice is All the Buzz!

Today *Spice* went to lunch and coffee with me and my BFF's.
We are all so excited about Megan's new book.
What a breath of fresh air!
Karen Kingsbury watch out - Megan DiMaria is publishing now!
Naturally, I'll read every single one of her books from now on.

Heather, umm, Heather, talk to us now and read it later.

Heather and Ton proudly display Megan's debut novel.
Even the cover is hip and happening.

Tonya cries at the real emotions Megan so skillfully evokes.

I thought this picture was funny.
We have all the essentials: coffee, cell phones, Searching For Spice and good friends. Unfortunately, Megan wasn't there to bask in her success with us.

"Did Megan really put that in there...."
I guess you'll have to read it to find out what that was.
It's very cutting edge, you know?

Sharen also doubles as a book model.

As of April 1, you'll be able to get your very own copy and a few for your friends as well. Megan is doing several book signings so I'll keep you updated on those and I'll also be posting a review. Order your copy now by clicking here.

Thanks for the Email

LOL. Starbucks gift certificates.
Who took this photo of me in the morning?

This reminds me of the year my son told all the relatives that he was
"just accepting cash donations" - he was saving for a new bike.

Healing Rain - Michael W. Smith

Do you need physical healing? Emotional healing? Spiritual healing? Having been so sick this last week, I totally feel the need for renewal. I need to step into that healing rain. I have residual asthma as a result of this nasty bug and my body does not like the antibiotics. Please pray. Would you like prayer? Please drop me a comment and I'll pray for you.

Our Love Turns Silver

When we met

I knew you were my knight in shining armor

You will always be my knight

But you are infinitely more

You are my soul mate

My true love

My protector, provider and rock

My best friend

You are the first one I think of each morning

And the man I cling to each night

You are my safe place to land

My favorite place is in your arms

We grew up together

As our children grew up

Our memories as precious as the first sign of spring

The birth of our babies

Their first steps

And crib escapes

Homeschooling

Training wheels

Cross-country moves

Our numerous business ventures

Graduations

Kids moving out

Mom moving in

The double wedding summer

As we walk together, hand in hand

I know I can face anything

With you by my side

Today our love turns silver

Happy 25^th My Love

Jan Parrish © 2008

Wordless Wednesday - Our 25th Anniversary!

Jan & Greg
March 5, 1983
Denver, CO

Jan & Greg
August 11, 2007
Our Son's Wedding
Denver, CO

Happy 25th Anniversary Babe!

Click here for other Wordless Wednesday participats.

Is Divorce Ever Right?

Want this button?
There is nothing more beautiful than a wedding. Likewise, there is nothing more painful than divorce. When someone asks the question, “Is divorce ever right?” I think of three categories of people.

1. Those who are new believers and honestly need answers.
2. Those who want to know because they’re looking for an easy way out.
3. Those who want to know because they want to condemn someone.

Let’s address group #1 first
God hates divorce. (Mal 2:16) And while God allows for it in the case of adultery (Mark 10:5-9), He longs to restore your marriage.

In an abusive marriage, a separation and extensive counseling is essential. I worked for 2 ½ years with women who were in abusive marriages. However, I’ve never recommended divorce. God is in the miracle business and He will perform one in your marriage if you ask Him to.

Group #2
If you think divorce is an easy way out, you haven’t been divorced or talked with anyone who has. Divorce is like war - it leaves a multitude of wounded and dead in its wake. Don’t be deceived into thinking it’s the easy way out or that it will only affect the two of you. The pain caused by divorce usually lasts a lifetime. What God hath joined together let no man (or woman, or family, or pastor, or teacher) put asunder! Mark 10:9 (KJV). Family members, friends, parents and children are the causalities of this war.

Recently my sister’s first husband’s mother died. I couldn’t get in touch with him to express my sympathy. Though he’d been a member of our family for many years, divorce created a chasm that couldn’t be crossed.

Reality Check:

• Marriage is not a fairy tale
• It is not always romantic
• Couples do not live happily ever after without effort
• Marriage is a commitment - a decision
• You will not always feel like being married
• You may not always feel love
• Marriage takes work

Group #3
Jesus said, “Let He who is without sin cast the first stone.” Thankfully, it’s not our place to judge. Aren’t you glad we don’t have to carry that responsibility?

Let’s stop kicking our wounded. I’m appalled at the way Christians have behaved toward Sandy Patty, Amy Grant and other famous Christians. Let’s exercise the same grace, mercy and love that Christ showed the woman at the well.

"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don't condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity." Luke 6:37 (MSG)

Game Room

Grab a cup of coffee or diet Pepsi and stay as long as you want. Looking for a game we don't have? Let me know and I'll see if I can find it. What's your fav game?

adopt your own virtual pet!

Which Sports Car R U?

I'm a Ferrari 360 Modena!

You've got it all. Power, passion, precision, and style. You're sensuous, exotic, and temperamental. Sure, you're expensive and high-maintenance, but you're worth it.

"Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.