When I was growing up, my mom would say, "this too will pass." At the time, I did not understand the true meaning of those words. Now, I realize that when you are down, you have to hang on and know that it will pass. It may not be instant but life keeps going and if you hang on, you'll be amazed at the directions you can go.
A new favorite song is Overcomer by Mandisa:
You're an overcomer
Stay in the fight ‘til the final round
You're not going under
‘Cause God is holding you right now
You might be down for a moment
Feeling like it's hopeless
That's when He reminds You
That you're an overcomer
You're an overcomer
Sometimes, a great song with a great beat can be the thing to lift you up. Overcomer - isn't that what we all are? Life puts bumps in our paths. Sometimes, they are big. Sometimes, they are small like spilling coffee in the morning. Whatever the bump, we can overcome. Small bumps are usually easy to fix but it's the "how" we fix them that makes the difference. Do we explode into a rage or do we briefly get frustrated and move on? Big bumps may require more faith.
I know when my daughter had a tooth lasered (yep, a laser), she was determined she would not go to school the next day because it had turned black all the way around the gum line. A typical teenager, she felt ugly and worried what others would say. I reminded her that the black would go away at some point and this was a bump in the road to a better smile. Her friends, I told her, would not walk away from her or make fun of her because of a black gum.
She came back from school at the end of the day smiling. You see, all her friends knew she had surgery. All wanted to "see" it when she got to school. They did not make fun of her. Some wanted to see it over and over because it was "gross". Once she realized that, she actually went and showed it to some girls just to see their reaction. Nice.
The life lesson was that even though we all have bumps in the road... we all need to face them and do our best to deal with them. As the song says, "You're Not Going Under"..
May being an Overcomer be your mantra today!!
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Friday, September 27, 2013
Do you talk to your momma with that mouth?
Part of my job is monitoring social media for my customers and I'm a Facebook fan myself. I use social media to reconnect with friends from my past and catch up with them. It allows me to cheer on their kids and "like" their life events while managing my day to day life.
I'm amazed, however, at the number of people who have all out wars with people on social media. It's like a billboard where your messages are publishing to all the passing motorists. One in particular took to Facebook to talk about her coworkers. She was slinging names like Sponge Bob slings Crabby Patties. I was a little shocked. Then, I wondered if a coworker was a "friend" of hers. Awkward. A day passed and a few exchanges later and the language got so bad, I had to delete it all.
My kids and I were watching a show one day where the gal said, "Do you talk to your momma with that mouth?" We chuckled and sometimes use it as a humorous way to remind each other that our talking has stepped over a line.
When people post on social media, they may want to think about momma. :) Or Grandma or Auntie or whomever may be viewing it. If you are comfortable with the language you use, have at it and let it flow. If, however, you get caught up in the heat of the moment, you may want to pause and think, would I talk this way to my momma? If not, you may want to wait or private message someone.
I'm amazed, however, at the number of people who have all out wars with people on social media. It's like a billboard where your messages are publishing to all the passing motorists. One in particular took to Facebook to talk about her coworkers. She was slinging names like Sponge Bob slings Crabby Patties. I was a little shocked. Then, I wondered if a coworker was a "friend" of hers. Awkward. A day passed and a few exchanges later and the language got so bad, I had to delete it all.
My kids and I were watching a show one day where the gal said, "Do you talk to your momma with that mouth?" We chuckled and sometimes use it as a humorous way to remind each other that our talking has stepped over a line.
When people post on social media, they may want to think about momma. :) Or Grandma or Auntie or whomever may be viewing it. If you are comfortable with the language you use, have at it and let it flow. If, however, you get caught up in the heat of the moment, you may want to pause and think, would I talk this way to my momma? If not, you may want to wait or private message someone.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Outward Pain
Recently, I was reminded of a chronic condition I have of a low knee cartlidge. You see, my knee had felt a little sore. I ignored it. I kept pushing and then suddenly, wham. I felt a gush and was unable to put pressure on my knee for 24 hours. The rebuilding process will take weeks and therapy.
As I walk to various events hobbling around, I get looks of sympathy. People hold the door open. Others have a look of sadness in their eyes.
I started thinking about my pain. Some pain, like mine, is an outward pain. You see it. You know it is there. You can tell that the person is in pain.
Yet, many of us carry an inward pain. That pain that no one can see but it is there. Perhaps it is a fight you are in, a struggle of money, a worry that you are carrying.
What I find is that pain is pain. The great news is that God is there with us with it all. When I faced a three hour drive with severe pain, I started out by crying. I wondered, "How am I going to do this?" The crying became a cry out as I asked God to just help me get to a place I could manage. I moved my foot some, twisted it and within minutes, the pain eased enough that I could make the journey.
Here's the thing - we don't know what pain people are carrying. Nor, do we know when we'll be in pain. The one constant is that we can pray. We can ask for healing for those who are sick. We can ask that God make one adjustment in someone's life that will make it manageable.
And, we can "see" the pain. Perhaps a friend is more sensitive than usual or someone bursts out at you for something. They may be carrying inward pain. They may not be sharing the pain they are carrying. Still, shouldn't we look on them with the same sympathy as those who have outward pain?
As I walk to various events hobbling around, I get looks of sympathy. People hold the door open. Others have a look of sadness in their eyes.
I started thinking about my pain. Some pain, like mine, is an outward pain. You see it. You know it is there. You can tell that the person is in pain.
Yet, many of us carry an inward pain. That pain that no one can see but it is there. Perhaps it is a fight you are in, a struggle of money, a worry that you are carrying.
What I find is that pain is pain. The great news is that God is there with us with it all. When I faced a three hour drive with severe pain, I started out by crying. I wondered, "How am I going to do this?" The crying became a cry out as I asked God to just help me get to a place I could manage. I moved my foot some, twisted it and within minutes, the pain eased enough that I could make the journey.
Here's the thing - we don't know what pain people are carrying. Nor, do we know when we'll be in pain. The one constant is that we can pray. We can ask for healing for those who are sick. We can ask that God make one adjustment in someone's life that will make it manageable.
And, we can "see" the pain. Perhaps a friend is more sensitive than usual or someone bursts out at you for something. They may be carrying inward pain. They may not be sharing the pain they are carrying. Still, shouldn't we look on them with the same sympathy as those who have outward pain?
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Becoming "unplugged" in today's Tech World
When I can help a business reach their marketing goals, I am psyched. However, I am a mom too and am just as psyched sitting at my kid's basketball game or helping them with a 4-H project.
Since starting my marketing company, I have been working at building my business. My dad owned his own business so I understood going in the hours, the dedication, the commitment. When I was 10, I was trained on the proper way to answer a phone and take a complete message. We had a business phone at our home.
With technology today, you can be available 24/7 from wherever you are. There are networking meetings, social networks, groups, apps and more to make sure we never miss a beat. It can be exhausting if you are not careful.
Here's a little thing I know - you don't get these years back. My parents have passed away. One when I was 24 and my mom last year. Both too young. So, when I work with customers (or even my own business), I try to find solutions that will power up their business but will also make life easier.
For instance, I sat with a mom at a volleyball game and downloaded a scanner for her so she can be on location and scan important documents on her phone. I also just converted an email sign up on a customer's website to be automated so he no longer has to worry about sending a coupon response - I designed one that now sends automatically. If I can help someone find a way to get more time with family and friends, it is thrilling.
Technology can also help you be in touch with your kids (text, email, skype). Here are some fun ways I have used technology to share my love:
* Set a calendar appointment on their phone while I am working that says, "I love you". So, they get a beep and there is a calendar message from me. :) When I had to travel for work, I used this all the time and set daily messages of love while I was away.
* Scanned photo of them as baby and texted it to them with a "The best day ever was when you were born!" They love seeing themselves as baby/toddlers.
* Recorded a song and then sent it to them. I have even done this via email with friends. Sometimes you just find a song that says so much. :)
* Downloaded one of their favorite songs on their phones and then left a note the next day to check their song list. Great for a reward or a "go get 'em" day.
There are so many ideas. Bottom line, use technology to enhance your life, not control it. :)
Since starting my marketing company, I have been working at building my business. My dad owned his own business so I understood going in the hours, the dedication, the commitment. When I was 10, I was trained on the proper way to answer a phone and take a complete message. We had a business phone at our home.
With technology today, you can be available 24/7 from wherever you are. There are networking meetings, social networks, groups, apps and more to make sure we never miss a beat. It can be exhausting if you are not careful.
Here's a little thing I know - you don't get these years back. My parents have passed away. One when I was 24 and my mom last year. Both too young. So, when I work with customers (or even my own business), I try to find solutions that will power up their business but will also make life easier.
For instance, I sat with a mom at a volleyball game and downloaded a scanner for her so she can be on location and scan important documents on her phone. I also just converted an email sign up on a customer's website to be automated so he no longer has to worry about sending a coupon response - I designed one that now sends automatically. If I can help someone find a way to get more time with family and friends, it is thrilling.
Technology can also help you be in touch with your kids (text, email, skype). Here are some fun ways I have used technology to share my love:
* Set a calendar appointment on their phone while I am working that says, "I love you". So, they get a beep and there is a calendar message from me. :) When I had to travel for work, I used this all the time and set daily messages of love while I was away.
* Scanned photo of them as baby and texted it to them with a "The best day ever was when you were born!" They love seeing themselves as baby/toddlers.
* Recorded a song and then sent it to them. I have even done this via email with friends. Sometimes you just find a song that says so much. :)
* Downloaded one of their favorite songs on their phones and then left a note the next day to check their song list. Great for a reward or a "go get 'em" day.
There are so many ideas. Bottom line, use technology to enhance your life, not control it. :)
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Things to do in Southern MN this summer - Waterparks
As a mom, I struggle sometimes to think of things to do with the kids each summer. Every year, I search for cool things or outings. So, this year, I thought I would add it to Living and Learning so I can share it.
The old standby - Waterparks. Need to know the rates and info? Check out the links below!
Waseca Waterpark
Indoor Waterpark Owatonna - you can get a day pass
Owatonna Outdoor Waterpark
Faribault Indoor & Outdoor Waterparks
I have been to them all. Waseca has a zero depth and then goes to deeper area. There is a slide and nice area to swim. There are limited number of chairs so come early or there is a grassy area where you can put down beach towels/blankets for some sun.
Owatonna indoor is actually in a hotel. It is ok and has a zero depth area, a basketball area and a slide. There is a lazy river around the slide area but small.
Owatonna outdoor waterpark has a kids area, a deep area with a rock wall climb and slide, a lazy river. The areas are separated and there is usually plenty of places to lounge.
Faribault indoor is a pool inside a community center. Nice pool. Deep end is great. Check with them for open swim times. We used to take kids there in the winter to burn off energy. They also have a birthday party package I think.
Faribault Outdoor waterpark has a zero depth, a slide and more. I have not been there in a few years, but my kids enjoy it.
Friday, April 19, 2013
Loved Ones are Never Gone
This month marks the anniversary of my mom's passing. Over the past year, I have caught myself thinking of her and my dad (who also passed away years ago) and all the ways they are still with me.
There are recipes, inside jokes, memories and more that come flooding back at the craziest times. My dad and I were very close and he still seems to work his way back into my life when I need him most. For instance, I was feeling down one day about my marketing company. I just seemed to be hitting walls, working late and not getting to the people I wanted to. Opening a drawer for a pen, I could not find one. Frustrated, I started taking things out thinking, "Gosh, I can't even find a pen today!". Digging a little, my hand came across something metal. Pulling it out, my frustration vanished. There, in my hand was one of my dad's old key chains. I clasped it tightly, wondering how on earth it got there (believe it or not, I had cleaned out my junk drawer before). :) Standing there in my kitchen, I just knew that my dad was gently saying, "Don't give up."
I also had a reminder of my mom's love for cooking. She had a recipe card box full of "special" recipes that had been carted to pot lucks, P.E.O meetings and more. I regret that I did not think of taking them with me when we moved her to assisted living. Years ago, however, she had sent me her recipe for homemade dressing. I used to have her make it by the blender when I was younger. I loved it. I ran across it in an address book and there it was, splattered and worn, but still readable. Just seeing it transported me to our kitchen in Winfield....measuring just the right amounts of this and that...seeing it blend and smelling the poppy seeds as I would hover over it, waiting for it to be done.
Even though a loved one is not with us physically, the memories, the love - still lives on. I know. I've lost my mom, dad, Aunt Ruth and Uncle Arnie all in a matter of a few years. The funny thing is, I can just see them all sitting around now, having a few cocktails and hear them laughing. And one of them is likely saying, "Holly, get off that damn computer!" :)
There are recipes, inside jokes, memories and more that come flooding back at the craziest times. My dad and I were very close and he still seems to work his way back into my life when I need him most. For instance, I was feeling down one day about my marketing company. I just seemed to be hitting walls, working late and not getting to the people I wanted to. Opening a drawer for a pen, I could not find one. Frustrated, I started taking things out thinking, "Gosh, I can't even find a pen today!". Digging a little, my hand came across something metal. Pulling it out, my frustration vanished. There, in my hand was one of my dad's old key chains. I clasped it tightly, wondering how on earth it got there (believe it or not, I had cleaned out my junk drawer before). :) Standing there in my kitchen, I just knew that my dad was gently saying, "Don't give up."
I also had a reminder of my mom's love for cooking. She had a recipe card box full of "special" recipes that had been carted to pot lucks, P.E.O meetings and more. I regret that I did not think of taking them with me when we moved her to assisted living. Years ago, however, she had sent me her recipe for homemade dressing. I used to have her make it by the blender when I was younger. I loved it. I ran across it in an address book and there it was, splattered and worn, but still readable. Just seeing it transported me to our kitchen in Winfield....measuring just the right amounts of this and that...seeing it blend and smelling the poppy seeds as I would hover over it, waiting for it to be done.
Even though a loved one is not with us physically, the memories, the love - still lives on. I know. I've lost my mom, dad, Aunt Ruth and Uncle Arnie all in a matter of a few years. The funny thing is, I can just see them all sitting around now, having a few cocktails and hear them laughing. And one of them is likely saying, "Holly, get off that damn computer!" :)
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Movie Time
I love watching a funny movie with my kids. Then, we find ourselves quoting things from it for the next week. For instance, The Grinch with Jim Carey - we'll find ourselves saying, "nice girl, bad judge of character" when we kid with each other. (ok, maybe inside joke).
The point is that we laugh, we cry and we connect. And, I love it.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Things to do in Southern Minnesota - Bowling
If you have not checked out Spare Time Entertainment in Owatonna, you need to. Spacious and well cared for, this bowling alley has snacks, bowling and fun. There is also an arcade area so bring some quarters. Their birthday packages are great as well. We took our son there with his friends and they had a blast. My daughter was able to go as well and take a friend and bowl on a lane near but not the same as her brother...teens, ya know. So, everyone had a great time and we were able to get pizza, pop and some appetizers to keep everyone feed. For this mom, I loved that I did nothing but show up. Oh, and I brought a cake. LOVE IT.
If you are looking for adult time, there is the Southside within Spare Time Entertainment. It features a pool table, full bar and a dance floor. You can dance each Friday or Saturday to a live DJ or band! Check out their website www.funtimebowling.com for a calendar of events.
Oh, and the cosmic bowling. It is a must. So fun...
Check out Spare Time Entertainment. You will be glad you did!
If you are looking for adult time, there is the Southside within Spare Time Entertainment. It features a pool table, full bar and a dance floor. You can dance each Friday or Saturday to a live DJ or band! Check out their website www.funtimebowling.com for a calendar of events.
Oh, and the cosmic bowling. It is a must. So fun...
Check out Spare Time Entertainment. You will be glad you did!
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Nelson Decorating Center, Owatonna, MN
So, I have this fantasy that I am an interior designer.... ok, well at least I can match colors. So when we replaced our window coverings, I looked at the holes where we had made errors in drilling in the past and wondered how we would do on this one.
Then, I started looking for new blinds. Do you know HOW MANY there are out there? But, we tried. I thought I saw ones I liked. Ordered them. Got them. They were the wrong size, the wrong color and completely would not do. So, after I stood in line to return them, I knew there was a better way.
I looked and found #Nelson Decorating Center in Owatonna, MN and connected with Beth.
She took the time to ask me questions about our lifestyle - room darkening or light? And, she came to my home and measured the window...huge relief. AND, she has someone come install them.
My new blinds -wonderful. The cost - about the same as the same ones I had ordered and wanted to do myself. My wall with no holes? Priceless. :)
Now you can "like" Nelson Decorating on Facebook -
Or Visit them on their website. Thank you for saving me Nelson Decorating Center!
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Thorns in Life
I have had my share of thorns. :) Haven't we all?
I think what sticks with me is that when you have had a thorn (sometimes they are really big ones), it makes you appreciate what you have. Then, I started thinking about my thorns and what made me thankful.... so thought I would make a list. Make your own list and think of the thorn and the good. I am not including people, mind you. :)
Thorn: Hitting a Deer Good: I am more careful and aware (and alive)
Thorn: Losing my full-time job Good: Started my own business that I LOVE
Thorn: Having a knee issue Good: Found out and can now address it
Thorn: My husband snoring so loudly it wakes me Good: He is beside me
Thorn: Losing my parents Good: Knowing my whole life I was loved
Well you get the idea. Tears are bound to come. Yet there is also wonderful.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Plant A Signal Fire
I read in a Facebook post that a friend said she was feeling down. It made me think of a poem that I had posted on my bedpost my first year out of college. It went something like this:
Lord, give me due respect for the abilities you have given me.
Do not let me cheapen them through indecision.
Do not let me hide them when others make fun.
Plant in me, Lord, the necessary determination.
And, when the way seems dark, plant a small signal fire
Lord, give me due respect for the abilities you have given me.
Do not let me cheapen them through indecision.
Do not let me hide them when others make fun.
Plant in me, Lord, the necessary determination.
And, when the way seems dark, plant a small signal fire
so that I may keep plodding steadily toward it.
I know there was more to it, but you get the idea. Every night I read that poem. It became my mantra. Still today, when I take on a challenge and it seems dark, the words "plant a signal fire..." echo in my head. We all need that signal fire. Sometimes it comes in the words of hope, sometimes it is a hug, sometimes it is a friend making you smile, sometimes it is prayer. Whatever your challenge, I hope you find that signal fire! You WILL make it.
Friday, January 11, 2013
Am I running my race?
I am a mom first and forever. I am a marketing person always. Yet, in today's world of technology with a tweets and likes and emails and.... It can be overwhelming at times. The distractions of everyone wanting attention can sometimes drown out my own thoughts.
I hear, "Oh, look at what they are doing?" "Hmmm, that is a new technology, should I use it?" "Wow, that person really has it together, should I follow them?"
Then, somewhere in the midst I think, "Am I running my own race?" We all need to listen to our hearts. We need to hear the voice that says, "THIS is where your spirit is." A dear friend recently told me "There's only one Holly!". Isn't that true? No one else has my experiences. Just like there is only only Paula or Sara or Peggy or Rick or Carson or Amber or Randy. Each of us has our own talents, our own well to draw from that makes us shine in our own right.
So, I will still listen. And, I will slow to make sure what I hear is in line with what is in my heart.
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