ANNOUNCING . . . One a day BOOK GIVEAWAYS for January 2010
EVERY DAY Jan. 2nd - Jan 30th, some lucky winner will receive a FREE book. That's 28 chances to WIN! My book, "Women of Virtue", is being featured on January 25th.
How do I enter the contest?
Go to the following author's blog: http://www.camicheckettsbooks.blogspot.com/
and check out which books are being offered and on which days.
Just do what Cami says and you might be so lucky to win!
Pass this info along to your friends and family.
Here is a listing of the books that will be given away and the days that they will be featured:
BOOK GIVEAWAYS
January 2nd - 101 Gourmet Cupcakes by Wendy Paul
January 4th - Where the Wind Blows by Caroline Fyffe
January 6th - Guided By Him…to a Thinner, Not So Stressed-Out You by Julie Morris
January 8th - Chickens in the Headlights by Matthew Buckley
January 9th - Loyalty's Web by Joyce DiPastena
January 11th - Altered Plans by Rebecca Talley
January 13th - My Son, John by Kathi Macias
January 15th - Discipline Me Right by Mary Simmons
January 16th - The Sister Pact by Cami Checketts
January 18th - Counting the Cost by Liz Adair
January 20th - Methods of Madness by Stephanie Black
January 22nd - Altered State by Gregg Luke
January 23rd - A Tapestry of Spells by Lynn Kurland
January 25th - Women of Virtue by Jodi Robinson
January 27th - Torn Apart by Diony George
January 29th - All the Stars in Heaven by Michele Holmes
January 30th - Love Your Body by Brooke Parker
Have fun and let me know if you WIN!
Book Giveaways by Cami Checketts
Happy New Year!
I live my life in layers. Wife, mother, author, speaker, and dabbler of all things interesting. When those interests gel you get S P U M O N I.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
The Piano and the True Meaning of Gift Giving
Years ago, I received a remarkable gift. One that taught me that a true gift is given with love and sacrifice.
Except for the radio playing “it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas” the commute home from North Dallas to the midcities area was turning out to be just like any other weekday commute. Cars were lined up bumper to bumper on I-35, all the way to the 121 interchange and beyond. I was so relieved to see the shiny, high rises disappearing in my rear view mirror that I yelled out, “Yea, for the holidays!” I then exited the toll road and pushed on the gas. December 25th was only 8 hours away.
An hour and ten minutes later, I pulled into my driveway, pushed the garage door opener, and watched it go up. Anxious to be home, I didn’t notice the yellow U-haul truck parked in front of my neighbor’s house. I parked next to my husband’s green truck, got out of the car, and opened up the back passenger door.
“Tomorrow’s Christmas, baby Jacqueline. Your first Christmas,” I said lifting my 9-month-old, baby daughter out of her car set. Her big brown eyes melted my heart. That day was Jacqueline’s last day at her daycare. I was quitting my job at the end of the month and starting with a new company, so I could work from home. Working in the big city wasn’t as exciting as it once was, because the minute I got to work all I could think about was picking up my baby and listening to her coo, and giggle. My new job would give me more time to be a mommy. Becoming a family was certainly more than I could have ever hoped for. It did, in fact, change everything.
"We're ho-ome!" I called out as we entered the side door. My husband greeted us and quickly whisked baby Jacqueline away.
“Hold her while I get dinner going and wrap a few more gifts?” I said heading for the bedroom to change my clothes. As I shut the blinds, I glanced out the window. Once again, I didn’t pay attention to the yellow U-haul in front of my neighbor’s house. I was too busy thinking about Christmas morning and how Christian and I were going to have so much fun watching our baby play with her new toys.
After dinner, we delivered some goodies to friends, organized the presents under the tree, put Jacqueline to bed, called family members to wish them a Merry Christmas, and finally hit the sack about 11 p.m. I had had a long and busy work week and within minutes of lying down I was out.
As soon as I was asleep, unbeknownst to me, my husband sprung into action. Now, Christian knew I was a sound sleeper, but he wasn’t going to take any chances. So, just as he had planned, he turned on the television for some background noise and placed a pillow over the side of my head. It wasn’t unusual for me to sleep with a pillow on my head. That was a skill I had learned in college, because my roommates were night owls. Since I had early morning classes, the pillow over my head remedied the noise factor so I could get some decent shut eye.
After getting redressed, Christian quietly shut the door to our bedroom. On his way downstairs, he turned up the heater. That way the cold air from the front door being propped open wouldn’t wake me. He had thought of everything. He then headed out, into a chilly December night, over to our neighbor’s yard, where he climbed into the yellow U-haul, started up the engine, and backed it into our driveway.
To my surprise, my Christmas present was inside the back of that truck. It was a 1962, brown Baldwin upright piano; a gift he had been planning for some time. For years, I played on an electric keyboard, but I dreamed of having my own piano. I had never said it out loud. I only thought it. But Christian knew. He just knew. Getting a piano was the farthest thing from my mind because he hadn’t, yet, graduated from the University of Texas. We had a new baby and had just bought our first house. A piano, at least for now, was out of the question.
To my surprise, though, my husband had thought a lot about a piano. He started calling on classified ads several months earlier and researching different used pianos. Money was also something he had to secretly keep from me. Saving $800 dollars without my knowing was quite a clever feat.
As Christian unlatched that back door to the truck and uncovered the piano, I’m sure he doubted, for at least a second or two, how he was going to pull off this surprise. Moving an almost 500 pound piano, up two front stairs, across a living room floor, and into a dining room, by himself, in the middle of the night, was not an easy task, and doing it quietly was nearly impossible. But somehow, two hours and half hours later, my husband had accomplished the impossible. (I’m still not quite sure how he did it.) Next, he set up our video camera on a tripod at the bottom of the stairs, so the big surprise would be caught on tape.
Seven O' clock the next morning, right on schedule, baby Jacqueline woke up. I rushed into her bedroom, scooped her up in my arms, and said, “It’s Christmas! Let’s go see what Santa brought.”
“Hold on,” said my husband. “Let me go turn on the camera.”
“Oh, what a great idea,” I said. “Getting Jacqueline’s reaction on her very first Christmas, you’re brilliant.” I was clueless. After a few minutes, he said he was ready for us and gave us the go ahead to come down the stairs.
“Let’s go see what Santa brought,” I said bouncing my babe in arms. I waved her little arm and I smiled at the camera, thinking that the purpose of capturing that moment was about my baby and not me.
Little did I know the camera was all about me and my surprise. My husband wanted me to see my reaction so I would remember it forever. And I do remember it. I remember turning the corner and, to my astonishment, seeing a giant red bow wrapped around a 1962, brown, Baldwin upright piano nestled against the east wall of my dining room. Thanks to his forward thinking, that Christmas morning memory is a priceless family video.
“Ahh! What!?” my hand flew over my mouth. “You!? How!? Oh, my goodness you got me a piano!? Oh, I can’t believe you got me a piano!? What! How on earth did you get this in here? You could have killed yourself! What were you thinking!?” I said hitting him on the shoulder. “Do you know how heavy pianos are?”
“Uh, yea I figured that out,” he replied.
I began to cry and then I was speechless. My husband went on to explain that my piano was in that yellow, U-haul truck all along.
“What U-haul truck?” I exclaimed. He told me he was so worried that, being the nosey neighbor that I was, he thought for sure I would question why our neighbors had a moving truck in front of their house on Christmas eve and go over there to find out why. However, he managed to pull off my surprise without any hiccups. Getting that piano into our house, all by himself, in the middle of the night, without waking me up, or our baby, was purely a Christmas miracle. I knew I had received a remarkable gift, given with such for-thought, sacrifice and love that my piano became a symbol of what Christmas was truly all about.
“It needs a good tuning. And one of the keys kind of sticks. But we can fix that,” he said quietly.
I didn’t care if didn't have any keys all! Given out of love it was the most perfect piano EVER!
Christian and I have now been married 19 years this coming February. Since that 1996 Christmas, I’ve had several chances to upgrade my $800.00, 1962, brown Baldwin to a newer and more modern model. But I’ve never had the heart to do it. You see, every once in awhile, when I sit down to play songs, and my fingers hit those sticky keys, I’m reminded of a tender, Texas Christmas, in the home of a young couple, who was starting out their life together as a family, and, in that moment, I am gently reminded of the love and sacrifice it took to give me that gift, and I realize that there is no better sounding piano, anywhere; for the melodies it plays are priceless.
May this Christmas be a reminder to all of us to remember the gifts that come to us by way of love and sacrifice. Especially the sacrifice of the Christ child, whose birth we celebrate. The Savior, the son of God, paid the ultimate price for our eternal happiness. Of his magnificent gift, of life and death, let us be gracious receivers and value it like no other.
May the spirit of the holidays be with you and your family throughout the coming year.
With love,
Jodi
Except for the radio playing “it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas” the commute home from North Dallas to the midcities area was turning out to be just like any other weekday commute. Cars were lined up bumper to bumper on I-35, all the way to the 121 interchange and beyond. I was so relieved to see the shiny, high rises disappearing in my rear view mirror that I yelled out, “Yea, for the holidays!” I then exited the toll road and pushed on the gas. December 25th was only 8 hours away.
An hour and ten minutes later, I pulled into my driveway, pushed the garage door opener, and watched it go up. Anxious to be home, I didn’t notice the yellow U-haul truck parked in front of my neighbor’s house. I parked next to my husband’s green truck, got out of the car, and opened up the back passenger door.
“Tomorrow’s Christmas, baby Jacqueline. Your first Christmas,” I said lifting my 9-month-old, baby daughter out of her car set. Her big brown eyes melted my heart. That day was Jacqueline’s last day at her daycare. I was quitting my job at the end of the month and starting with a new company, so I could work from home. Working in the big city wasn’t as exciting as it once was, because the minute I got to work all I could think about was picking up my baby and listening to her coo, and giggle. My new job would give me more time to be a mommy. Becoming a family was certainly more than I could have ever hoped for. It did, in fact, change everything.
"We're ho-ome!" I called out as we entered the side door. My husband greeted us and quickly whisked baby Jacqueline away.
“Hold her while I get dinner going and wrap a few more gifts?” I said heading for the bedroom to change my clothes. As I shut the blinds, I glanced out the window. Once again, I didn’t pay attention to the yellow U-haul in front of my neighbor’s house. I was too busy thinking about Christmas morning and how Christian and I were going to have so much fun watching our baby play with her new toys.
After dinner, we delivered some goodies to friends, organized the presents under the tree, put Jacqueline to bed, called family members to wish them a Merry Christmas, and finally hit the sack about 11 p.m. I had had a long and busy work week and within minutes of lying down I was out.
As soon as I was asleep, unbeknownst to me, my husband sprung into action. Now, Christian knew I was a sound sleeper, but he wasn’t going to take any chances. So, just as he had planned, he turned on the television for some background noise and placed a pillow over the side of my head. It wasn’t unusual for me to sleep with a pillow on my head. That was a skill I had learned in college, because my roommates were night owls. Since I had early morning classes, the pillow over my head remedied the noise factor so I could get some decent shut eye.
After getting redressed, Christian quietly shut the door to our bedroom. On his way downstairs, he turned up the heater. That way the cold air from the front door being propped open wouldn’t wake me. He had thought of everything. He then headed out, into a chilly December night, over to our neighbor’s yard, where he climbed into the yellow U-haul, started up the engine, and backed it into our driveway.
To my surprise, my Christmas present was inside the back of that truck. It was a 1962, brown Baldwin upright piano; a gift he had been planning for some time. For years, I played on an electric keyboard, but I dreamed of having my own piano. I had never said it out loud. I only thought it. But Christian knew. He just knew. Getting a piano was the farthest thing from my mind because he hadn’t, yet, graduated from the University of Texas. We had a new baby and had just bought our first house. A piano, at least for now, was out of the question.
To my surprise, though, my husband had thought a lot about a piano. He started calling on classified ads several months earlier and researching different used pianos. Money was also something he had to secretly keep from me. Saving $800 dollars without my knowing was quite a clever feat.
As Christian unlatched that back door to the truck and uncovered the piano, I’m sure he doubted, for at least a second or two, how he was going to pull off this surprise. Moving an almost 500 pound piano, up two front stairs, across a living room floor, and into a dining room, by himself, in the middle of the night, was not an easy task, and doing it quietly was nearly impossible. But somehow, two hours and half hours later, my husband had accomplished the impossible. (I’m still not quite sure how he did it.) Next, he set up our video camera on a tripod at the bottom of the stairs, so the big surprise would be caught on tape.
Seven O' clock the next morning, right on schedule, baby Jacqueline woke up. I rushed into her bedroom, scooped her up in my arms, and said, “It’s Christmas! Let’s go see what Santa brought.”
“Hold on,” said my husband. “Let me go turn on the camera.”
“Oh, what a great idea,” I said. “Getting Jacqueline’s reaction on her very first Christmas, you’re brilliant.” I was clueless. After a few minutes, he said he was ready for us and gave us the go ahead to come down the stairs.
“Let’s go see what Santa brought,” I said bouncing my babe in arms. I waved her little arm and I smiled at the camera, thinking that the purpose of capturing that moment was about my baby and not me.
Little did I know the camera was all about me and my surprise. My husband wanted me to see my reaction so I would remember it forever. And I do remember it. I remember turning the corner and, to my astonishment, seeing a giant red bow wrapped around a 1962, brown, Baldwin upright piano nestled against the east wall of my dining room. Thanks to his forward thinking, that Christmas morning memory is a priceless family video.
“Ahh! What!?” my hand flew over my mouth. “You!? How!? Oh, my goodness you got me a piano!? Oh, I can’t believe you got me a piano!? What! How on earth did you get this in here? You could have killed yourself! What were you thinking!?” I said hitting him on the shoulder. “Do you know how heavy pianos are?”
“Uh, yea I figured that out,” he replied.
I began to cry and then I was speechless. My husband went on to explain that my piano was in that yellow, U-haul truck all along.
“What U-haul truck?” I exclaimed. He told me he was so worried that, being the nosey neighbor that I was, he thought for sure I would question why our neighbors had a moving truck in front of their house on Christmas eve and go over there to find out why. However, he managed to pull off my surprise without any hiccups. Getting that piano into our house, all by himself, in the middle of the night, without waking me up, or our baby, was purely a Christmas miracle. I knew I had received a remarkable gift, given with such for-thought, sacrifice and love that my piano became a symbol of what Christmas was truly all about.
“It needs a good tuning. And one of the keys kind of sticks. But we can fix that,” he said quietly.
I didn’t care if didn't have any keys all! Given out of love it was the most perfect piano EVER!
Christian and I have now been married 19 years this coming February. Since that 1996 Christmas, I’ve had several chances to upgrade my $800.00, 1962, brown Baldwin to a newer and more modern model. But I’ve never had the heart to do it. You see, every once in awhile, when I sit down to play songs, and my fingers hit those sticky keys, I’m reminded of a tender, Texas Christmas, in the home of a young couple, who was starting out their life together as a family, and, in that moment, I am gently reminded of the love and sacrifice it took to give me that gift, and I realize that there is no better sounding piano, anywhere; for the melodies it plays are priceless.
May this Christmas be a reminder to all of us to remember the gifts that come to us by way of love and sacrifice. Especially the sacrifice of the Christ child, whose birth we celebrate. The Savior, the son of God, paid the ultimate price for our eternal happiness. Of his magnificent gift, of life and death, let us be gracious receivers and value it like no other.
With love,
Jodi
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
WINNERS of my GOLD STAR CHALLENGE
How did you do giving out your GOLD STARS? Our three WINNERS (by random selection...pulling names out of jars...very scientific) are: Robynl, Elizabeth Morgan, and Teri Nine. Email me your addresses at jodirobinson2182@hotmail.com, and I will have the authors send you your book. Thanks again to Jewel, Joyce Dipastena, and Liz Adair for donating their books for our GOLD STAR contest.
I really had fun giving out GOLD STARS, did you? Because of this challenge, I did so much better at complimenting and uplifting everyone I was around. It kept it top-of-mind. It also taught me how easy it is to think negatively and even say negative things in place of something positive. So, that's a good New Year's resolution. To give a GOLD STAR instead of sack of potatoes, or in other words, give a blessing instead of a curse. I'll write more about that in the New Year. Here were just a few of my 100 GOLD STARS given out this past week.
Just a few of JODI'S 100 GOLD STARS
1. Kissed my son and daughter on the forehead as they were heading off to school and told them they were the best kids ever! (My son yelled back, "You're the best mom ever!")
2. Told my husband I admired him. (He said, "What did you say?" I went on to explain. I need to verbally tell him more often how much I really do admire him. He's a really good man.)
3. Sent an email to someone I had lost track of over the years and told her how much her encouragement meant to me when I was younger. She emailed me back and said she really appreciated it.
4. Clapped my hands when my four-year-old colored me a beautiful picture of Strawberry Shortcake. "You're a fantastic artist, Zoey." She smiled and said, "I'm going to make you another one."
5. This isn't really a verbal gold star, but I earned 2 for cleaning up my daughter's throw up (without complaining) at my older daughter's dance recital in front of a crowd. (I think I earned at least 2 stars for this one.)
6. Said a prayer for someone I knew needed one.
7. Brought some homemade fudge to one of my dear friends and told her thank you for putting up with me. (It's the BEST EVER fudge and I mean it. Sorry no one else got some...but I had too much fun eating the rest. That's why I had to give out truffles to the rest of you instead.)
8. Helped my daughter buy flowers for her two friends and before we gave them the flowers we talked about all the good things we liked about each friend.
9. Told my Heavenly Father he was really good at his job.
10. Complimented a stranger coming out of Kohls' telling her that she had a darling haircut. (She was so flattered.)
11. Told my hairdresser I was so lucky to have found her.
12. Told my oldest daughter she was beautiful.
13. Told my second daughter she was beautiful.
14. Told my son he was handsome.
15. Told my youngest daughter that she melted my heart. "You melt my heart, mommy." She said back.
16. I told several women throughout the week, whenever I had chance to talk with them, why I loved them and why I was blessed to have them in my life.
17. Said to the checker at the Fresh Market, "Thank you for being so helpful."
18. Sat next to one of my kid's past teachers at a concert and told her she really made a difference in my daughter's 5th grade year.
19. Thanked a few of new neighbors for being so welcoming.
20. Told my oldest daughter's band teacher that he is a fabulous teacher! That I am grateful for his talents and for giving so much to our kids. Band teacher's dont' get paid much, but, boy do they make difference in student's lives in helping them develop their love for music. I dare say, "Mr. Perkins, you rock!"
My next post won't be until after January 3, 2010. I pray that each of us will decide to develop a deeper relationship with our Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the reason for the season...but more than that...he is the reason for everything. Merry Christmas and may all your Christmas wishes come true.
Love,
Jodi
True beauty if felt more than it is seen.
I really had fun giving out GOLD STARS, did you? Because of this challenge, I did so much better at complimenting and uplifting everyone I was around. It kept it top-of-mind. It also taught me how easy it is to think negatively and even say negative things in place of something positive. So, that's a good New Year's resolution. To give a GOLD STAR instead of sack of potatoes, or in other words, give a blessing instead of a curse. I'll write more about that in the New Year. Here were just a few of my 100 GOLD STARS given out this past week.
Just a few of JODI'S 100 GOLD STARS
1. Kissed my son and daughter on the forehead as they were heading off to school and told them they were the best kids ever! (My son yelled back, "You're the best mom ever!")
2. Told my husband I admired him. (He said, "What did you say?" I went on to explain. I need to verbally tell him more often how much I really do admire him. He's a really good man.)
3. Sent an email to someone I had lost track of over the years and told her how much her encouragement meant to me when I was younger. She emailed me back and said she really appreciated it.
4. Clapped my hands when my four-year-old colored me a beautiful picture of Strawberry Shortcake. "You're a fantastic artist, Zoey." She smiled and said, "I'm going to make you another one."
5. This isn't really a verbal gold star, but I earned 2 for cleaning up my daughter's throw up (without complaining) at my older daughter's dance recital in front of a crowd. (I think I earned at least 2 stars for this one.)
6. Said a prayer for someone I knew needed one.
7. Brought some homemade fudge to one of my dear friends and told her thank you for putting up with me. (It's the BEST EVER fudge and I mean it. Sorry no one else got some...but I had too much fun eating the rest. That's why I had to give out truffles to the rest of you instead.)
8. Helped my daughter buy flowers for her two friends and before we gave them the flowers we talked about all the good things we liked about each friend.
9. Told my Heavenly Father he was really good at his job.
10. Complimented a stranger coming out of Kohls' telling her that she had a darling haircut. (She was so flattered.)
11. Told my hairdresser I was so lucky to have found her.
12. Told my oldest daughter she was beautiful.
13. Told my second daughter she was beautiful.
14. Told my son he was handsome.
15. Told my youngest daughter that she melted my heart. "You melt my heart, mommy." She said back.
16. I told several women throughout the week, whenever I had chance to talk with them, why I loved them and why I was blessed to have them in my life.
17. Said to the checker at the Fresh Market, "Thank you for being so helpful."
18. Sat next to one of my kid's past teachers at a concert and told her she really made a difference in my daughter's 5th grade year.
19. Thanked a few of new neighbors for being so welcoming.
20. Told my oldest daughter's band teacher that he is a fabulous teacher! That I am grateful for his talents and for giving so much to our kids. Band teacher's dont' get paid much, but, boy do they make difference in student's lives in helping them develop their love for music. I dare say, "Mr. Perkins, you rock!"
My next post won't be until after January 3, 2010. I pray that each of us will decide to develop a deeper relationship with our Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the reason for the season...but more than that...he is the reason for everything. Merry Christmas and may all your Christmas wishes come true.
Love,
Jodi
True beauty if felt more than it is seen.
Monday, December 14, 2009
The Gold Star Challenge-Giving Out Gold-Join Me and WIN A FREE BOOK!
What is the GOLD STAR CHALLENCE?
Okay, so, I've been thinking about creating a Gold Star Chart for my 4 1/2 year old to motivate her to stay in her Sunday school class at Church. We've just moved and so she's been leary about her new friends, new classroom, and new church building. At her age, gold stars go a long way. She loves seeing that row of gold grow across the page and sometimes that does the trick to help her do better at whatever I'm trying to teach her.
Well, it got me thinking about Gold Stars, and how it's been a while since I received a gold star. As a mother of four children, I do a lot of things that should earn me a gold star. Like doing the dishes. I washed all the Sunday dishes, all by myself, and because it's Sunday we dirty a lot of dishes. The sink and counters were overflowing with plates, cups, bowls, and silverware. After I was done, I thought to myself, "I earned a gold star for that." But nobody gave me one. Nobody clapped their hands and jumped up and down and said, "Jodi, you are such a good dish washer." As I dried that last dish and placed it in the cupboard, I pictured my husband placing a gold star on my forehead and my children surrounding me with clapping hands and patting me on the back. I liked it.
Getting a Gold Star just makes you feel good. You remember how it felt, don't you? Which...brings me to my point that no matter how old we are, no matter what we've achieved in life, we all crave positive feedback. We all need that pat on the back, that "A" for effort, or that gold star that tells us that we're doing great! So, here's another thought; as much as we'd like to receive a gold star, how often do we give a gold star? GIVING OUT gold stars, or compliments, or positive feedback in general, also feels really good because the person you're giving it to feeds you positive energy right back. It's a win-win!
So, here is the GOLD STAR CHALLENGE. This week is going to be my GOLD STAR week. And, it's most appropriate for the holidays because on top of my Christmas tree is, in fact, a gold star. It's a great reminder that I need to give GOLD STARS to my husband, to my children, to my friends, and even to strangers. I'm so excited! Even the check out lady at Wal-mart is going to get a gold star from me today, I can just feel it. And I can't wait! This will be the best week ever because I'm going to set a goal to give out 100 gold stars. Ya, think I can do it? Piece-a-cake.
JOIN ME in the GOLD STAR CHALLENGE and WIN a FREE BOOK: So, if you're interested in joining me, give out as many gold stars as you can and POST your experience in the comments below. Next Tuesday, December 22, 2009, I'll post the THREE winners.
Let's give out a little gold! I'll report back and let you know what I did with all of my gold stars. I'd love to know what you did with yours.
I RECEIVED A GOLD STAR FROM A READER
I did receive a wonderful Gold Star this morning from a reader of my book, "Women of Virtue." It's so nice when someone takes the time to email you and tell you that you've made a difference in their life. Seriously, it's worth more than gold. So, thanks to Elizabeth Adams, I'm starting off my Monday with an imaginary Gold Star on my forehead...and I feel like a winner. Thanks, Elizabeth. You gave me a Gold Star and because of you I'm passing along Gold Stars to everyone I meet for the rest of the week.
Dear Jodi,
I don't know if you remember me but I'm Elizabeth Adams. You gave a talk at my church, at our 'Young Women in Exellence' night. You gave me your book, "Women of Virtue", and I just finished reading it, and I just had to thank you. It's my new favorite book! I think I cried three times while reading it! It was so inspirational and I just wanted to thank you for giving me a copy. I feel that your book is a such a gift to all women and I so hope you keep writing. Your book really touched my heart, and I just want to, again, thank you so, so much.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Adams
Again, thanks Elizabeth. Your Gold Star was as good as gold.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
What are YOU Reading? Here's my two latest holiday picks.
Positively Delightful
I have a NEW favorite holiday poem. It's called Bethlehem's Star by Bevan Olsen. I paid only $2.99 for this 12 page story that is sure to become a family favorite for years to come. You can read the whole poem and see the illustrations when you click on the link.
Google-Bethlehem's Star
I bought my copy, of all places, at my local grocery store. And I'm so glad I just happened upon it. You can order it on-line. Here's a link for Google. Again, a great price for a Christmas tale that touches your heart.
Over Thanksgiving, I read The Modern Magi, by Carolyn Pearson, with my entire family. It's only about 60 pages, so it's an easy read to enjoy with your kids. The story is about a woman named Annabelle who is forced to examine her willingnes to give a "true" gift, which means giving up something she wants most. This lovely tale that teaches us about the meaning of true gift giving. Everyone loved it! Absolutely loved it. I bought copies for friends and family. Oops. I think I just gave the surprise away. Don't tell.
HAPPY READING! Amazon--Modern Magi
Saturday, November 21, 2009
The Lesson of Abundance—A Mom and 3 Kids in a Minivan and a Tied Fleece Blankets
As we drove down the block, my son fixated on the clump of miscellaneous clothing items heaped up against the tall oak tree at the edge of the park. I noticed two feet jetting out from underneath it.
“He’s a homeless man, Cody,” I said furrowing my brow. “So sad, isn’t it?” I pushed on the gas as we passed by.
Why was that man homeless? And why was he sleeping underneath a pile of clothes in the middle of the park? Those were the next obvious questions—ones that I couldn’t answer as easily as the first.
Turning west, we saw much of the same. To the left was a woman snoozing on a park bench with a large, overstuffed bag at her side, most likely full of every belonging she owned. To the right was a man waving his hands over his ears, talking frantically to himself.
My kids asked, “Is he alright?”
Whether or not he was on drugs or just suffering from mental illness, I couldn’t tell. But what I did know was that he had nowhere else to go. Like the others, he was homeless.
I explained to my kids that at least a few of these people would stay the night at the local shelter. They’d get a sack lunch, and a place to warm up before heading back out into the city to find shelter under a tree or in an alley. That’s what homelessness was.
Spying a slide and monkey bars on the west side of the park, my four-year-old begged, “Can we go play?”
“Oh, no. That’s a not a park we play in,” I replied. She was puzzled. A four-year-old wouldn’t understand why playing in the park wasn’t a good idea. It’s a park, isn’t it? But despite a new jogging trail and other recent renovations, it was still a hangout for our city’s indigent population. Not a park where young children can just play.
The park was one block away from the homeless shelter. That’s where we were headed. We had spent the morning tying fleece blankets at a nearby drug treatment center as a service project. The women at the treatment center had helped tie a couple of blankets and it was my job to deliver them to the shelter. I glanced over at the red and green fleece sitting in a bag in the passenger seat. Thanks to the women in my class, they had fringed and perfectly knotted the edges of two fleece blankets. It only took them about 20 minutes.
A few blankets? I thought to myself spying at the strangers in the park. In the big scheme of things, a couple of blankets seemed so insignificant. I pushed on my breaks as the van slowly turned the corner. A leaf danced across my windshield, a tell-tale sign that winter was on its way. My bones chilled as I counted the number of bodies lying on the ground in the park. Homeless individuals with nowhere to go.
“How can you not have a home?” my son asked again and again.
My explanations seemed futile. Losing a job, mental illness, and addiction were some of the answers I quickly gave him. Even his older sister piped in a time or two to educate her brother about the possibilities of why someone ends up homeless, lying under some overpass, sleeping in a flimsy cardboard box, or sleeping under a tree in a city park. His curiosity curbed for the moment.
Just then a man carrying a green duffle bag strapped to his back, appeared on the corner across the street from where we were. Sydney piped up, “Look, that man is limping. Let’s give him one of the blankets, Mom. Can we?”
I wasn’t expecting that.
“Well, I guess we can,” I said becoming suddenly aware of what I had just committed to. Give a blanket to a homeless person in person? I had never done that before. Always, I had delivered the blankets to the shelter. But I had never just gone to the park, gotten out of my car, and handed some homeless person a blanket. And why not? Because that park intimidated me.
“You’re going to lose him, Mom!” said my daughter as I came to a stop at the red light.
My heart pounded in my chest. The shelter was just a block away and dropping off blankets there seemed so much easier, and to be honest, safer.
“Mom, hurry!” my son begged as the man stepped out into the crowded crosswalk. He seemed so unsure of himself. Alone in a sea of suits, cell-phones, and BlackBerrys. His pack was heavy on his back. He limped hunched over, staring mostly at the ground. Hearing the voices of my children begging me to give him one of our blankets, I knew I couldn’t just drive past him. I had to give him one. So, at their coaxing, I turned on my blinker, changed lanes, and made a quick u-turn heading back towards the man. He had stopped to pull a rumpled newspaper out of a garbage can near the curb. I slowly approached the curb, put the van in park, and rolled down the passenger side window.
“Sir?” I said looking out across from the driver’s seat. “Sir,” I called again. “Would you like a hamburger?” I held up the Burger King double cheeseburger that my four-year-old didn’t eat. He didn’t respond. I didn’t know if he was ignoring me on purpose or if he couldn’t hear me, so I tried again.
“Sir, we have a burger and blanket for you.”
I then motioned for my daughter to hand him the blanket from her side of the car. He glanced up at me. It took him a moment to figure out what we were doing. But he finally reached out and took the burger and the blanket from my daughter. He placed the burger in his right coat pocket and tucked the blanket under his left arm.
“It’s gonna get cold so we hope this blanket helps,” I said with a cheery grin.
A toothless smile appeared on the man’s face.
“Merry Christmas!” he said.
“Merry Christmas.” We said back. We watched him fold up the newspaper and look around. I wondered what he was thinking. I checked my rear view mirror, pulled out into the street, and headed for the freeway. I decided to save the other blanket for another day. A day when we found another stranger to give it to.
For about a block, I watched the man in my rear view mirror until his image faded into the crowd.
“You did a good thing, kids,” I said. We were all quiet. In my mind I was thinking if only we could have done more.
Twenty-five minutes later, we arrived home. Pulling into the driveway of my three-story house, I was reminded of abundance. We live an abundant life. We have a house. We have food in our pantry. We have clothes in our closets. We have electricity, running water, and feather-down comforters on soft mattresses. We have friends and family members with whom we associate every day of the week, who would help us if ever we were in need. Even on Sunday, we attend meetings at a cozy church building and we’re surrounded by kind and generous people who smile at us, who are there for us. We have abundance.
I secretly wished and prayed that that man we gave the blanket to could feel for just one second what I felt. That he could know what abundance is.
Later that night, I was reading in Emily Freeman’s book, “The Promise of Enough.” On page 67, I read: “Our ability to remember gratitude for even the smallest blessing has a direct influence on our ability to live the abundant life. Perhaps we could echo the prayer of George Herbert who said, ‘Thou that hast giv’n so much to me, give me one thing more, a grateful heart.’”
It hit me. As I pondered on this quote and how it related to the experience my children and I had had giving a homeless man a blanket earlier in the day, I was reminded of something—the man’s smile. It was a grateful smile. Today, that man had indeed lived the abundant life. Not because we had given him a blanket and sandwich. But because he was grateful. He had humbly showed gratitude for a small, and meager offering from a mom and three kids in a mini-van. Abundance. On this day, the man with the army-green duffle bag had abundance.
So, tonight, as I think of that man lying in some alley chilled by snowflakes falling from the night sky, I picture him wrapped up in a red and green plaid, hand-tied fleece blanket and I feel very blessed for all I have been given. Gratitude blesses us with abundance. It turns what we have into enough and more. Thank you, homeless stranger. Thank you for teaching me about the power of gratitude and the true meaning of abundance. May God watch over you and keep you safe from harm.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Holiday Picks--Suggested Reading for Christmas
Christmas for a Dollar is an heir-loom storybook full of beautiful illustrations. It's 1931 in Bakersfield, California. America is in the midst of the Depression, and the Kamp family is struggling to get by, especially after Mrs. Kamp s untimely death. Now little Ruthie, with her mother gone and her father overwhelmed by doctor bills resulting from her brother s polio, expects another Christmas without presents or festivities. But when her father brings home one dollar in change and lets the children use it to buy special gifts for each other, the Kamps come to find that money isn't what fills Christmas with joy, love, and miracles. The Christmas Dollar can be found at Seagull, Deseret Book, and Costco as well as online at Amazon.
Santa’s Secret is a true story about a REAL Santa Claus. Phil Porter has been Santa Claus for 26 years. His true stories will touch your heart as he helps people deal with tragedy, divorce, poverty, unemployment and abuse. He spreads the true meaning of Christmas to those he serves, pointing them back to Jesus Christ. Check out this wonderful book at www.christyhardman.com/santassecret.html.
Two Stories of Faith: Eli, the Shepherd Boy and Abigail, the Innkeepers Wife are stories you’ll want to share with your family and friends. The two stories tell of the lives of two individuals who became followers of the Savior during his mortal mission and for the balance of their lives. No matter what age we may live in, the message of the Gospel is pertinent to our eternal happiness and we can and must "endure to the end." www.amazon.com/Two-Stories-Faith-Shepherd-Innkeepers/dp/1425952623/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1258214653&sr=8-8
After you've had your hot chocolate rush and you just want a good book to escape with, try Missing. It's not about Christmas, but it takes place at Christmas time. A college choir tour in British Columbia turns out to be anything but ordinary when soloist Stacie Cox spots a kidnapped child during a performance. Before Stacie can alert the authorities, the little girl disappears. Find out more about Missing at http://www.rondahinrichsen.com/.
The Spirit of Christmas by Jennie Hansen, Betsy Brannon Green, and Michele Ashman Bell will help you rekindle the spirit of Christmas. A timeless trio of stories told by some of the finest storytellers will bring a heartwarming message for the Season. Will Sophie really be able to get what she needs by spending the holidays alone? Will Miss Eugenia be able to give a struggling family the Christmas they want? Has five-year-old Janie's visit from Santa really been cancelled because she was bad? Find out in this perfect assortment for sharing and celebrating the holiday season. http://micheleabell.blogspot.com/
A Candle in the Window, by Michele Ashman Bell, tells about a husband and three young daughters struggling to face their first Christmas without their wife and mother. Eight-year-old Emily is convinced her mother will come and visit her at Christmas. It’s a tender story of a miracle brought about by the faith of a young girl. It will surely bring the magic and wonder of Christmas into your heart. http://micheleabell.blogspot.com/
The Santa Letters, by Stacey Gooch Anderson, will leave you with a renewed sense of hope and Aubrey Mace’s Santa Maybe will bring a little romance into your holiday season. Check them out at www.thesantaletters.org and www.amazon.com/Santa-Maybe-Aubrey-Mace/dp/1599553120/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1258214937&sr=1-1
I hope your holidays begin with the anticipation that something wonderful is about to happen.
With love and friendship always,
Jodi
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
"Women of Virtue", An Emergency Room, and A Coffee Table
Recently, I had the unfortunate experience of being in an emergency room with my father. He had fallen off a tall ladder and was seriously injured. After x-rays and doctors examinations, we were lucky to hear the news that his back was only sprained, not broken. Whooh! After a while, when things had settled down a bit, my father and I began talking about an upcoming book signing I was scheduled to do. A nurse overhead us talking and asked me, "What book are you talking about?"
"Oh, I wrote a book called 'Women of Virtue,'" I said. It was her response that surprised me.
"Oh, my neighbor has your book sitting on her coffee table. It's got a purple cover, right?"
I was a bit awestruck. I probably looked a little pale. My book? Sitting on someone's coffee table? I had never thought about that before. My dad, lying there in his hospital bed, beamed with pride. That was the only part of him being in an emergency room that was remotely memorable. Wow! My book in someone's living room. I guess that's how it works. You write a book. People you don't even know buy it and read it. And it ends up on their coffee table.
That was an "ah-ha" moment for me.
So, today, I, first, want to express grattitude for my father's good health. He recovered from that fall as if her were thirty years younger. A true blessing. And secondly, I want to thank all of you, those I know and those whom I've never met, who have helped give my book, "Women of Virtue", wings.
To those of you who have my purple-cover, "Women of Virtue", sitting on your coffee table, or in your bookshelf, or in your purse. Thank you. It's a message that all girls and women need to hear. I needed to hear it, and I am so thrilled when I'm introduced to complete strangers who have read it or at least know about it.
It's a big world for unknown authors and small books to get noticed. It comes down to word of mouth. Friends telling friends. Neighbhors telling neighbors. And so I thank you. Thank you for believing in the message and for sharing the message with others.
My book is being featured on a Book Review Blog: so check this out.
FREE BOOK OFFERED ON Sheila Staley's Book Review Blog
If you haven't, yet, read "Women of Virtue" and would like to WIN a copy, enter her contest. Follow the link below and it will take you to her blog to enter.
Let's keep talking about the beauty of virtue. And how true beauty is felt more than it is seen. For that is the only way to truly be happy. Have a wonderful week. CLICK ON "what are people saying about women of virtue" and you will be directed to the http://www.whybecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/.
What are people saying about "Women of Virtue"?
Friday, November 6, 2009
Don't Underestimate Your Influence--Speaking in Ogden, Utah
North Ogden Young Women. (Paige is the second on the left.)
A few weeks ago, my book "Women of Virtue" was featured on a Book Review Blog and featured as a giveaway. After the contest was over, I was given the winner's email address and name. I quickly sent her an email to congratule her on being the winner and to get her address so I could mail her my book. I mentioned to her that I spoke at firesides, etc., and to keep me in mind as a future speaker.
Well, I heard back from this winner shortly after she had received my book. She said she enjoyed my book and wondered if I'd be willing to speak to her Young Women's group in Ogden. Her email said the Young Women's president would be calling me to go over a few things. I was excited.
"Paige just loved your book," the president said to me on the phone. "And the message of your book is so right on with our Young Women's in Excellence theme." After a long conversation, she said, "We'd love to have you as our guest speaker." I told her I was grateful to Paige for passing along my information and that I truly believed that the message I had to share with the girls would strengthen their testimonies of virtue. We ironed out the details and that was it.
The night I was scheduled to speak, I arrived about 30 minhtues early. The young women were practicing their musical number so I quietly went about setting up my computer. I looked around wondering which leader was Paige. I realized I didn't know what she looked like and figured she would introduce herself to me evenutally. Shortly after I arrived a woman walked over to me, extended her hand, and I figured, she must be Paige.
"I'm Ellie, the Young Women's president. Thank you so much for coming."
"I'm so glad to be here and that song sounded beautiful," I replied. For the moment, I forgot about her not being Paige and focused on getting ready to speak.
Ellie asked me if I needed any help. "No, I'm good, thanks." I proceeded to get my computer set up and then greeted some of the guests as they arrived. I kept looking around the room hoping that Paige would come meet me.
Well, Ellie started the meeting. And still no Paige. We sang the opening song. A prayer and the Young Women's theme was said. And then the president stood to say a few words.
"We are so excited to have our speaker tonight, Jodi Robinson. And I'm now going to turn the time over to Paige to introduce her because she is the reason Jodi is here." This is it! I thought. I'll finally find out which one of these women is the person who is responsible for inviting me here. Yea!
I then saw a lovely woman sitting across the room glace at the girl sitting next to her. She gave her little nudge. The girl stood up and walked up to the podium with a paper in hand. Pagie? Paige is one of the young women? I had no idea. It turned out that Paige is a second year Mia Maid. She was the winner of the contest. She was the one who had read my book and told her Young Women leaders about it.
Come to find out Paige had lobbied the Young Women's presidency for me to come and speak. "Jodi has got to come and speak to us," she told them. Wow! Now I know why the young women's president had so many questions for me when she called me. It wasn't a fellow young women's leader, or even a mother, who had made the suggestion that I speak. It was one of her young women and she just wanted to make sure everything was kosher if they were going to have a guest speaker. Once Paige finished introducing me, I walked over and gave her a great big hug.
"Paige, from your emails I had no idea you were one of the young women. I am so touched that you would go to all this trouble to get me to come and speak," I told the audience. I told her parents they should be awfully proud of their daughter being so professional and grown up. She was polite, so together, and very gracious.
Ellie, the young women's president, explained to me after the meeting that Paige had come to a planning meeting all excited about "Jodi Robinson and her book 'Women of Virtue'." She was confident the message was just what the young women needed. And so Ellie promised she would look into who I was and what my book was about. Which she did.
Thanks to Paige and her willingless to put herself out there, I was able to meet the young women and mothers in North Ogden. And they were wonderful! Wednesday night was a great experience. Thanks to a Mia Maid named Paige.
Don't ever underestimate your influence. Whatever your age or your life's circumstance, you have the ability to influence. And when you use your influence for good, good things happen. Paige is proof of that.
Thanks, Paige!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Witches Night Out
WITCHES PARTY 2009--It's a tradition, every October, for me to hold a Witches Party. Potions? Spells? And ghoulish delights? Well, not quite. We're the friendly, neighborhood witches, who consist of a group of women who simply crave a good girls night out with fun, games, and food. The witches hats are mandatory. No one gets in without a hat. I even have extras here at the house if they try. At the begining of the evening, twenty- plus neighborhood friends all "take flight" (in our mini-vans and suburbans) and deliver treats to a few unsuspecting neighbors. When we arrive at the door, we all chant:
"Cackle, cackle. Hee. Hee. Friendly neighborhood witches are we. Coming to give you not a trick or a fright. Just wishing you well on a cool Autumn night."
It's quite a hoot to see all of us dressed up in black witches hats carrying bags of cookies to share. Pass the Broomstick, a murder mystery, and a scary, but funny, story by professional storyteller, Julie Barson, complete the evening. Thanks to all the Witches for coming. I'm already looking forward to next year! Cackle. Cackle. Happy Halloween everyone!
P.S. Rights to Witches Night Out can be secured by contacting me, President of the Neighborhood Witches Association. Bring Witches Party to a neighborhood near you! Your neighbhors will love it!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
A Halloween Celebration at a Drug Treatment Center
Two Fridays a month are my House of Hope days. It's been that way for eight years. My kids know that on Fridays that's where I go from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.. They'll even say over breakfast, "Oh, yea, mom. It's Friday. House of Hope day." When my kids were really young, they all came with me to House of Hope (a drug treatment center for women in recovery). We'd wake up early and off we'd drive, in our wood-paneled jeep, down I-15 to the sixth south exit and into the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. We'd be greeted by 40 women, who would eagerly help me carry in my craft buckets and excitedly ask, "Jodi, what have you got for us today?"
"Today we decoupage!" I announce.
The crowd rumbles, "Yea!"
By trade, I am not a crafter, but I became one because I wanted to spend time with these wonderful women. I wanted to offer hope and healing to women recovering from addiction. Crafting and lifeskills classes gave me a reason to be there with them, to learn from them, and love them. It was the "something to do" so we could talk and share our life stories.
We talk about raising children, being wives and mothers, saving money, relationships. You name it. We discuss it. And the best part is there are no pretentions or worries about putting on a show about who we are and where we come from. They know I'm a Christian woman, a stay-at-home mom, who drives a mini-van, who has never had a cigarette and never tasted beer. And they accept me anyways. There isn't a "who does she think is" sort of attitude. They just love me for who I am and who I am trying to become.
I, too, know why the women at House of Hope are there--they are addicts. Many have served time in jail. Many have been drug dealers. Some are in the process of getting their kids back and some have lost all rights to their kids. They come from all walks of life, religions, and economics. So, what do we have in common? Perhaps the most important thing; we are all trying to better ourselves and our lives. Just like they are trying to be better, I am trying to be a better. I'm trying to forgive more fully, love more deeply, and give more freely. They help me do this.
This past Friday was our Halloween party. Two good friends, came with me. Rootbeer floats, chocolate-frosted pumpkin cookies, games, and storytelling. It was all good, clean, fun. Even a little silly at times. There was lots of laughter. Lots of smiles.
I am blessed to know the faces and names of addiciton. I am blessed to hold their babies. To give them hugs. And to encourage their fighting spirits to continue fighting. I have learned more about hope, faith, overcoming fear, and living an open and honest life from the most unlikely teachers--drug addicts. It's been an incredible journey. These women teach me more than I could ever teach them. And the truth of the matter is; we are so much more the same than we are different. So, when they thank me for showing them how to make a flower arrangment out of a carved-out pumpkin, I readily admit the playing field is unequal because their gifts to me are priceless.
I often tell them that I wish when they graduate form the program how I would love then to come live in my neighborhood so I could protect them. Because I know that not everyone is going to look at a recovering drug addicts like I do. Life is about consequences and accepting responsibility for our own actions. But life is also about second chances. And don't we all deserve a second chance? I'm certainly not perfect. In fact, I'm due for a second chance right now. By the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ, I know I can receive one. And that's a beautiful thought.
"The cookies are delicious."
"Thanks for coming today."
"I had so much fun. I can't wait to do this with my kids."
Thanks House of Hope ladies for letting me and my friends be part of your lives. You are some of life's most beautiful blessings.
For this week, let's concentrate on second chances. Let's give second chances to those who need them. Because, when all is said and done, we all do.
Sincerely,
Jodi
"Today we decoupage!" I announce.
The crowd rumbles, "Yea!"
By trade, I am not a crafter, but I became one because I wanted to spend time with these wonderful women. I wanted to offer hope and healing to women recovering from addiction. Crafting and lifeskills classes gave me a reason to be there with them, to learn from them, and love them. It was the "something to do" so we could talk and share our life stories.
We talk about raising children, being wives and mothers, saving money, relationships. You name it. We discuss it. And the best part is there are no pretentions or worries about putting on a show about who we are and where we come from. They know I'm a Christian woman, a stay-at-home mom, who drives a mini-van, who has never had a cigarette and never tasted beer. And they accept me anyways. There isn't a "who does she think is" sort of attitude. They just love me for who I am and who I am trying to become.
I, too, know why the women at House of Hope are there--they are addicts. Many have served time in jail. Many have been drug dealers. Some are in the process of getting their kids back and some have lost all rights to their kids. They come from all walks of life, religions, and economics. So, what do we have in common? Perhaps the most important thing; we are all trying to better ourselves and our lives. Just like they are trying to be better, I am trying to be a better. I'm trying to forgive more fully, love more deeply, and give more freely. They help me do this.
This past Friday was our Halloween party. Two good friends, came with me. Rootbeer floats, chocolate-frosted pumpkin cookies, games, and storytelling. It was all good, clean, fun. Even a little silly at times. There was lots of laughter. Lots of smiles.
I am blessed to know the faces and names of addiciton. I am blessed to hold their babies. To give them hugs. And to encourage their fighting spirits to continue fighting. I have learned more about hope, faith, overcoming fear, and living an open and honest life from the most unlikely teachers--drug addicts. It's been an incredible journey. These women teach me more than I could ever teach them. And the truth of the matter is; we are so much more the same than we are different. So, when they thank me for showing them how to make a flower arrangment out of a carved-out pumpkin, I readily admit the playing field is unequal because their gifts to me are priceless.
I often tell them that I wish when they graduate form the program how I would love then to come live in my neighborhood so I could protect them. Because I know that not everyone is going to look at a recovering drug addicts like I do. Life is about consequences and accepting responsibility for our own actions. But life is also about second chances. And don't we all deserve a second chance? I'm certainly not perfect. In fact, I'm due for a second chance right now. By the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ, I know I can receive one. And that's a beautiful thought.
"The cookies are delicious."
"Thanks for coming today."
"I had so much fun. I can't wait to do this with my kids."
Thanks House of Hope ladies for letting me and my friends be part of your lives. You are some of life's most beautiful blessings.
For this week, let's concentrate on second chances. Let's give second chances to those who need them. Because, when all is said and done, we all do.
Sincerely,
Jodi
Monday, October 12, 2009
Unlikely Prayers In Unlikely Places
Unlikely Prayers In Unlikely Places
I’ve been praying like crazy these past few weeks because we’ve had some big decisions to make. We’ve needed some extra help from above, so the prayer circuits at the Robinson household have been working on overload. Thinking about prayer has reminded me of a sweet experience I had a few years ago. About one week before my 4th baby was born, I was doing some last minute shopping at the baby superstore. Standing in the blanket aisle of Babies R US, with swollen feet and a bulging belly, I was determined to buy a few, last minute items, when out of the corner of my eye, a woman started walking toward me. She wasn’t headed for the blankets. She was headed straight for me. I looked away but within seconds she was right next to me. A complete stranger, she smiled as if we had known each other since we were born. She asked, “Is it a boy or a girl?” Holding up a pink, blue, and cream chenille blanket, I cautiously told her we didn’t know what we were having thus the need for three different colored blankets.
“Oh,” she said with a hint of understanding. “Well, I’m having twins. A boy and a girl.”
“That’s perfect,” I responded feeling a little more comfortable.
I guess when you’re pregnant, every woman with a bulging belly is an immediate ally.
“What color is your nursery?” I questioned. Our conversation then continued on for several minutes. We talked about binkies, babbas, blankies, misplaced body parts and pre-labor anxiety. We laughed a little before the tone turned a little more serious. Her demeanor was so welcoming and genuine that I found myself sharing my whole pregnancy history, and how, even though I was almost full term, I was still a little worried because of what I had been through. It didn’t take long before she grabbed my hand and said “Can I say a prayer for you?” I was a bit stunned. First, this stranger approaches me out of the blue and now she was holding my hand and in my air space, which when you’re three feet wide is awfully close. I honestly did not know what I should do. I had never been prayed for by a stranger in the middle of Babies R US before. I was questioning proper protocol. Although I had bonded with this woman over small talk, I was a little uncomfortable about what other customers might think if they saw two women with their heads bowed and arms crossed in the middle of aisle six. She didn’t give me a chance to back out. She quickly launched into her spiel about being a member of a nearby church and how her pastor had asked everyone to pray for a stranger sometime that week. Apparently I was that stranger and she wanted to pray for me. So, there we stood. Hand in hand in the blanket aisle of the baby store as this total stranger asked God to bless me to calm my anxieties and fears. My eyes welled up with tears. It was really a touching thing to hear someone I hardly new pray for me. When the woman finished, I didn't know exactly what to say other than, "Thank you. That was the kindest thing anyone has ever done for me.” We finished our conversation about blankets and said goodbye. Every time I drive by Babies R US, I am compelled to think of aisle six and that prayer offered on my behalf by a woman who didn’t even know me. What a beautiful thing!
So, today, I am sending my prayers out over the Internet to anyone who needs to be prayed for. I don’t know all of you. But I know everyone can use a prayer. If you find yourself, feeling a little low today, just remember that someone, maybe even someone you have never even met, has already said for prayer for you just because.
Sometimes, prayers offered by unlikely people in unlikely places are likely to bless us in ways we never imagine. To the woman who prayed for me on a hot July day in the middle of the baby superstore, I thank you for praying for me. You taught me that’s how we all need to be. Less afraid to reach out and share God’s good graces. If you feel like it, I hope you, too, will say a prayer for those who need one and even those who think they don’t.
Sincerely,
Jodi Robinson
Author, "Women of Virtue"
True beauty is felt more than it is seen.
I’ve been praying like crazy these past few weeks because we’ve had some big decisions to make. We’ve needed some extra help from above, so the prayer circuits at the Robinson household have been working on overload. Thinking about prayer has reminded me of a sweet experience I had a few years ago. About one week before my 4th baby was born, I was doing some last minute shopping at the baby superstore. Standing in the blanket aisle of Babies R US, with swollen feet and a bulging belly, I was determined to buy a few, last minute items, when out of the corner of my eye, a woman started walking toward me. She wasn’t headed for the blankets. She was headed straight for me. I looked away but within seconds she was right next to me. A complete stranger, she smiled as if we had known each other since we were born. She asked, “Is it a boy or a girl?” Holding up a pink, blue, and cream chenille blanket, I cautiously told her we didn’t know what we were having thus the need for three different colored blankets.
“Oh,” she said with a hint of understanding. “Well, I’m having twins. A boy and a girl.”
“That’s perfect,” I responded feeling a little more comfortable.
I guess when you’re pregnant, every woman with a bulging belly is an immediate ally.
“What color is your nursery?” I questioned. Our conversation then continued on for several minutes. We talked about binkies, babbas, blankies, misplaced body parts and pre-labor anxiety. We laughed a little before the tone turned a little more serious. Her demeanor was so welcoming and genuine that I found myself sharing my whole pregnancy history, and how, even though I was almost full term, I was still a little worried because of what I had been through. It didn’t take long before she grabbed my hand and said “Can I say a prayer for you?” I was a bit stunned. First, this stranger approaches me out of the blue and now she was holding my hand and in my air space, which when you’re three feet wide is awfully close. I honestly did not know what I should do. I had never been prayed for by a stranger in the middle of Babies R US before. I was questioning proper protocol. Although I had bonded with this woman over small talk, I was a little uncomfortable about what other customers might think if they saw two women with their heads bowed and arms crossed in the middle of aisle six. She didn’t give me a chance to back out. She quickly launched into her spiel about being a member of a nearby church and how her pastor had asked everyone to pray for a stranger sometime that week. Apparently I was that stranger and she wanted to pray for me. So, there we stood. Hand in hand in the blanket aisle of the baby store as this total stranger asked God to bless me to calm my anxieties and fears. My eyes welled up with tears. It was really a touching thing to hear someone I hardly new pray for me. When the woman finished, I didn't know exactly what to say other than, "Thank you. That was the kindest thing anyone has ever done for me.” We finished our conversation about blankets and said goodbye. Every time I drive by Babies R US, I am compelled to think of aisle six and that prayer offered on my behalf by a woman who didn’t even know me. What a beautiful thing!
So, today, I am sending my prayers out over the Internet to anyone who needs to be prayed for. I don’t know all of you. But I know everyone can use a prayer. If you find yourself, feeling a little low today, just remember that someone, maybe even someone you have never even met, has already said for prayer for you just because.
Sometimes, prayers offered by unlikely people in unlikely places are likely to bless us in ways we never imagine. To the woman who prayed for me on a hot July day in the middle of the baby superstore, I thank you for praying for me. You taught me that’s how we all need to be. Less afraid to reach out and share God’s good graces. If you feel like it, I hope you, too, will say a prayer for those who need one and even those who think they don’t.
Sincerely,
Jodi Robinson
Author, "Women of Virtue"
True beauty is felt more than it is seen.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Women of Virtue
True beauty is felt more than it is seen.
Available at Deseret Book, Seagull Book, http://www.amazon.com/, http://www.cedarfort.com/, and many other bookstores nationwide.
Special Message for KAMAS...To the young women and their moms in Kamas, Utah...It was wonderful to spend time with all of you at your Stake Standards night. Thanks for having me. To each of you who came up and talked with me afterward, a special thank you for making me feel BEAUTIFUL. May each of you remember YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL because of your virtue. "There is nothing more magnificient than a daughter of God" who knows who she is and whose she is. Walk in the paths of virtue. That is the only true way to be happy. Email me at jodirobinson2182@hotmail.com. I'd love to hear from you. Love--Jodi
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
A gift from my son
Last night I was helping my son with his spelling words. He had to write one sentence for each word on his list. One of the words was beautiful. "Okay, Cody," I said. "This is the last sentence and then it's bedtime." He busily started writing as I walked over to the sink to get a drink. The next thing I knew he had set down his pencil and placed his paper in his homework folder. I then kissed him goodnight and tucked him in bed.
Well, after school today, Cody brought me his homework folder. To my surprise, I pulled out his spelling sentence sheet and there on line number seven he had written, "My mother is beautiful." He stood there looking at me as if he knew what it would mean to me. And he was right. It meant the world to me. I squeezed him, kissed his head, and said, "Oh, Cody. That is so sweet." He smiled a satisfied smile. Cody's homework page is now posted on my dressing table mirror. I think that's where it will stay for a very long time.
Well, after school today, Cody brought me his homework folder. To my surprise, I pulled out his spelling sentence sheet and there on line number seven he had written, "My mother is beautiful." He stood there looking at me as if he knew what it would mean to me. And he was right. It meant the world to me. I squeezed him, kissed his head, and said, "Oh, Cody. That is so sweet." He smiled a satisfied smile. Cody's homework page is now posted on my dressing table mirror. I think that's where it will stay for a very long time.
From Julie
I received this message from a women who just read Women of Virtue. She writes:
"Jodi, I just finished reading your book and for the first time in mt 37 years of life I am catching a glimpse of who I really am. Thank you for writing this. Heavenly Father knew I needed this."
Wow! Thanks, Julie. May you always see the true beauty of virtue.
"Jodi, I just finished reading your book and for the first time in mt 37 years of life I am catching a glimpse of who I really am. Thank you for writing this. Heavenly Father knew I needed this."
Wow! Thanks, Julie. May you always see the true beauty of virtue.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Looking for an inspirational read to feel good about who you are ? How do you contact me to speak?
Discover the beauty of virtue in the NEWLY RELEASED inspirational book for women and young women called "Women of Virtue." Discover how true beauty is felt more than it is seen.
It's a Blessing to Speak to Young Women and Women about the Beauty of Virtue
I've sure enjoyed meeting and speaking with so many young women and their moms as I've given presentations to various groups this past summer. Ruby of West Jordan, Utah, it was a pleasure to meet you and Grace from St. Anthony Idaho, always remember how special you are. Through my speaking I've met many memorable individuals who have left lasting impressions on my heart. To the women of Camarillo, I can't thank you enough for giving me such a warm reception at girls camp and the book launch party. Hope all is well. Meeting so many confident and spiriutal young women and, really, women of all ages and all walks of life, has been an added blessing in my life. What a wonderful journey. It is a privilege to rub shoulders with all of you. I hope our paths cross again.
For information on my presentation: 'The Beauty of Virtue" email me at jodirobinson2182@hotmail.com
It's a Blessing to Speak to Young Women and Women about the Beauty of Virtue
I've sure enjoyed meeting and speaking with so many young women and their moms as I've given presentations to various groups this past summer. Ruby of West Jordan, Utah, it was a pleasure to meet you and Grace from St. Anthony Idaho, always remember how special you are. Through my speaking I've met many memorable individuals who have left lasting impressions on my heart. To the women of Camarillo, I can't thank you enough for giving me such a warm reception at girls camp and the book launch party. Hope all is well. Meeting so many confident and spiriutal young women and, really, women of all ages and all walks of life, has been an added blessing in my life. What a wonderful journey. It is a privilege to rub shoulders with all of you. I hope our paths cross again.
For information on my presentation: 'The Beauty of Virtue" email me at jodirobinson2182@hotmail.com
Saturday, July 11, 2009
"Women of Virtue" is now available at:
Now available at Deseret Book
http://www.cedarfort.com/
http://www.amazon.com/
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/
http://www.borders.com/
And other bookstores and websites that carry inspirational Christian books.
http://www.cedarfort.com/
http://www.amazon.com/
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/
http://www.borders.com/
And other bookstores and websites that carry inspirational Christian books.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Latest Review of Women of Virtue by Book Reviewer Karen Hamilton
REVIEW BY KAREN HAMILTON
"As a mother with a daughter in the Young Women's program, this was atitle that caught my attention. The new Young Womens¹ value that wasadded, is Virtue. While I can tell you a basic concept of what virtue isand how it is a part of daily life, I was surprised at how much morethere is to virtue. With my limited understanding of virtue, I did notcompletely comprehend virtue as it is meant to be. Jodi Robinson takes virtue and details the what, how, why, where andwhen virtue is used in daily life. She has a series of subtitles withinthe chapters that cover many thoughts on virtue. For example, in thefirst chapter, "The Beauty of Virtue," some of the subtitles are: "Virtue makes a Woman Beautiful." "Defining Virtue,", "Seeking Virtue," "We are confident because of Virtue," "Virtue is what makes us Strong" and "Beauty is more Spiritual than it is Temporal."
"So, you're writing about virtue. Mom, what exactly is virtue?" "Well," I said, letting out a sigh of desperation, "virtue means beinggood and making right choices.² I figured that answer would suffice the curiosity of a ten-year-old" (p.1) This begins the authors' exploration on the importance of virtue and how it will be tested as her daughter grows up. "Satan would try to convince her that virtue doesn't matter, when in fact it does matter." (p.1) Robinson writes about women in the scriptures and in modern history that exemplify virtue. "Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. Proverbs 31:10" (p.11) This is but one of the scriptures that is used in this book.
Jodi Robinson gives a brief description of precious gems and how rare it is for rubies to exist. The same chemicals that give them their color arealso the same chemicals that can destroy the gem, making it impossiblefor the ruby to form. This is why the Lord compared virtuous women tobeing more precious than rubies. Helen Keller said, "The most beautiful things in the world cannot beseen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart." "This is whatbeing beautiful is about. To a virtuous woman of God, beauty is something that is felt far more than it is seen. (p.7) Jodi Robinson uses an experience that she had with her Grandmother just before she passed on and comments, "Grandma taught me a lot about whatit means to be beautiful because her beauty was felt far more than itwas seen. Thank you, Grandma, for letting me see in you the beauty ofvirtue." (p.8) The concepts that devalue virtue are addressed in this book in simple to understand words and phrases. They are further illustrated by stories pulled out of scripture, history, and personal experiences.
This is abook that I recommend that everyone read, but especially young women,young men and their parents. It is another tool to helping our young women and young men to understand that there is so much more to virtue than sexual purity.
"As a mother with a daughter in the Young Women's program, this was atitle that caught my attention. The new Young Womens¹ value that wasadded, is Virtue. While I can tell you a basic concept of what virtue isand how it is a part of daily life, I was surprised at how much morethere is to virtue. With my limited understanding of virtue, I did notcompletely comprehend virtue as it is meant to be. Jodi Robinson takes virtue and details the what, how, why, where andwhen virtue is used in daily life. She has a series of subtitles withinthe chapters that cover many thoughts on virtue. For example, in thefirst chapter, "The Beauty of Virtue," some of the subtitles are: "Virtue makes a Woman Beautiful." "Defining Virtue,", "Seeking Virtue," "We are confident because of Virtue," "Virtue is what makes us Strong" and "Beauty is more Spiritual than it is Temporal."
"So, you're writing about virtue. Mom, what exactly is virtue?" "Well," I said, letting out a sigh of desperation, "virtue means beinggood and making right choices.² I figured that answer would suffice the curiosity of a ten-year-old" (p.1) This begins the authors' exploration on the importance of virtue and how it will be tested as her daughter grows up. "Satan would try to convince her that virtue doesn't matter, when in fact it does matter." (p.1) Robinson writes about women in the scriptures and in modern history that exemplify virtue. "Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. Proverbs 31:10" (p.11) This is but one of the scriptures that is used in this book.
Jodi Robinson gives a brief description of precious gems and how rare it is for rubies to exist. The same chemicals that give them their color arealso the same chemicals that can destroy the gem, making it impossiblefor the ruby to form. This is why the Lord compared virtuous women tobeing more precious than rubies. Helen Keller said, "The most beautiful things in the world cannot beseen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart." "This is whatbeing beautiful is about. To a virtuous woman of God, beauty is something that is felt far more than it is seen. (p.7) Jodi Robinson uses an experience that she had with her Grandmother just before she passed on and comments, "Grandma taught me a lot about whatit means to be beautiful because her beauty was felt far more than itwas seen. Thank you, Grandma, for letting me see in you the beauty ofvirtue." (p.8) The concepts that devalue virtue are addressed in this book in simple to understand words and phrases. They are further illustrated by stories pulled out of scripture, history, and personal experiences.
This is abook that I recommend that everyone read, but especially young women,young men and their parents. It is another tool to helping our young women and young men to understand that there is so much more to virtue than sexual purity.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
"SONG" Woman of Virtue FREE Download--Raw Talent Unveiled
For a limited time, you can DOWNLOAD for FREE my new (and I must admit "only") song for young women and women, called "A Woman of Virtue." The lyrics were written by me, Jodi, to go along with my book "Women of Virtue." My good friend, Jacquelyn Meyers, has the god-given talent to compose music she hears, so I sang her the tune I had mulling around in my head, and wall-ah! in less than 60 minutes we had a song. Thanks to those of you who have requested a CD copy of the song after hearing it at one of my firesides. You gave us the courage to record it. We recorded it today at the Annex Studios in Draper, Utah. Thanks to Rob for taking our "raw" (and I mean "raw") talent and making us a great mix! We hope you enjoy it! Email me back and let me know what you think. With love and friendship--Jodi
If you'd like a FREE DOWNLOAD of the song "Woman of Virtue", email me your request and I'll email you the link. My email address is: jodirobinson2182@hotmail.com.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Winners for Michele Bell's CONTEST
The WINNERS of Michele Ashman Bell's contest have been posted on her blog www.micheleabell.blogspt.com. The winners receive a copy of "Women of Virtue" and a beautiful decorative tile. Check it out! You may be the winner.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Authors of "Agent in Old Lace" and "A Modest Proposal" Highlight "Women of Virtue"--ENTER CONTEST TO WIN FREE BOOK and TILE!
CHECK OUT MY INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR Michele Ashman Bell AND ENTER A CONTEST TO WIN A COPY OF MY BOOK AND A REE DECORATIVE TILE. See info at http://micheleabell.blogspot.com/
When you're a new author, you need people to show you the ropes. It helps to have people who have "been thee, done that." People who know how to navigate through unchartered territory. Well, I've been lucky to have been introduced to several wonderful people who have willingly said, "Let me help you out." Tristi Pinkston, author of "Agent in Old Lace," newly released in May 2009 posted a review on her blog about my new book, "Women of Virtue." http://tristisbooktours.blogspot.com/2009/05/women-of-virtue-jodi-marie-robinson.html
I was also interviewed by talented writer and author, Michele Ashman Bell, author of A Modest Proposal," which highlights the career of a clothing designer dedicated to high fashion with a modest flare. Check out the interview at http://www.micheleabell.blogspot.com/. AND enter to WIN a copy of my book and a decorative tile. Michele has some GREAT contests all the time. Enter by Tuesday, May 12, 2009.
Thanks for all your support!
When you're a new author, you need people to show you the ropes. It helps to have people who have "been thee, done that." People who know how to navigate through unchartered territory. Well, I've been lucky to have been introduced to several wonderful people who have willingly said, "Let me help you out." Tristi Pinkston, author of "Agent in Old Lace," newly released in May 2009 posted a review on her blog about my new book, "Women of Virtue." http://tristisbooktours.blogspot.com/2009/05/women-of-virtue-jodi-marie-robinson.html
I was also interviewed by talented writer and author, Michele Ashman Bell, author of A Modest Proposal," which highlights the career of a clothing designer dedicated to high fashion with a modest flare. Check out the interview at http://www.micheleabell.blogspot.com/. AND enter to WIN a copy of my book and a decorative tile. Michele has some GREAT contests all the time. Enter by Tuesday, May 12, 2009.
Thanks for all your support!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
There is nothing in all this world as magnificent as Virtue. --Gordon B. Hinckley
Gordon B. Hinckley proclaimed: "There is none more beautiful, more inspiring than a [woman] who knows who she is, who walks in virtue with an understanding of why she should do so."
Let us return to virtue. TRUE BEAUTY is virtuous beauty. It is felt with heart, not seen with the eyes.
Beauty in Bloom--Self-Esteem for Girls Blossoms with Girl Scouts Uniquely ME
There's more to being a Girl Scout than "Thin Mints" and "Samoas." Yes, girl scouts sell cookies. But they also serve their community and learn valuable life lessons that change them for good. Recently, our troop earned the "Bronze Award"--the highest service award given to Girl Scouts. Our troop organized, planned, and executed a service project for the House of Hope--a drug treatment center in downtown Salt Lake City.
"Thanks for coming and sharing your talents," the women gratefully told the girls. The girls were humbled to know that women recoving from drug addcition are just "normal" women who took a wrong turn and are trying to get back on the right path. Many of these "addicts" are mothers and some are just young women themselves. They deserve a second chance: a chance to discover who they really are.
The troop focussed on two themes: "It's what you give that makes you beautiful" and "Be your own kind of beautiful." The girls wrote and performed their own play; served brunch; and sang songs. "These girls brought us hope today" said one of the women in the group. "Thanks for reaching out," another said. As leaders we're trying to teach our girls to give whatever you have to "give." That's the best dose of self-esteem you'll ever swallow.
I support Girl Scouts of America and I also support Dove. GSA has teamed with the Dove Foundation to sponsor a FREE program called "Uniquely ME" aimed at improving young girls self-confidence, self-esteem, and body image. You can download the Uniquely ME! materials for FREE. You don't need to be a Girl Scout or a leader to use them.
Girls today need positive role models that teach true principles of beauty. They deserve to feel beautiful simply because God made them and they have something to "give." Let's forgo the red carpet and sit down and have a "real" discussion with our daughters about what "real" beauty really is and how it feels. True beauty is felt more than it is seen. It is found in the heart. It really is. Uniquely ME is all about being YOU-nique! Check it out. http://www.girlscouts.org/program/program_opportunities/leadership/uniquelyme.asp
Beauty in Bloom--Self-Esteem for Girls Blossoms with Girl Scouts Uniquely ME
There's more to being a Girl Scout than "Thin Mints" and "Samoas." Yes, girl scouts sell cookies. But they also serve their community and learn valuable life lessons that change them for good. Recently, our troop earned the "Bronze Award"--the highest service award given to Girl Scouts. Our troop organized, planned, and executed a service project for the House of Hope--a drug treatment center in downtown Salt Lake City.
"Thanks for coming and sharing your talents," the women gratefully told the girls. The girls were humbled to know that women recoving from drug addcition are just "normal" women who took a wrong turn and are trying to get back on the right path. Many of these "addicts" are mothers and some are just young women themselves. They deserve a second chance: a chance to discover who they really are.
The troop focussed on two themes: "It's what you give that makes you beautiful" and "Be your own kind of beautiful." The girls wrote and performed their own play; served brunch; and sang songs. "These girls brought us hope today" said one of the women in the group. "Thanks for reaching out," another said. As leaders we're trying to teach our girls to give whatever you have to "give." That's the best dose of self-esteem you'll ever swallow.
I support Girl Scouts of America and I also support Dove. GSA has teamed with the Dove Foundation to sponsor a FREE program called "Uniquely ME" aimed at improving young girls self-confidence, self-esteem, and body image. You can download the Uniquely ME! materials for FREE. You don't need to be a Girl Scout or a leader to use them.
Girls today need positive role models that teach true principles of beauty. They deserve to feel beautiful simply because God made them and they have something to "give." Let's forgo the red carpet and sit down and have a "real" discussion with our daughters about what "real" beauty really is and how it feels. True beauty is felt more than it is seen. It is found in the heart. It really is. Uniquely ME is all about being YOU-nique! Check it out. http://www.girlscouts.org/program/program_opportunities/leadership/uniquelyme.asp
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