Favorite

Favorite drink
Favorite food
Favorite city
Favorite word
Favorite quote

No recap

i don't want to recap the year. I just have to move forward knowing God is ever present.

Would you rather

Eat chocolate or chips

Drink egg nog or wine

Ski or soak in a tub

Play Scrabble or hit a baseball 

Ski in Gstaad or swim in United Arab Emirates 

Pick

Aspen
Cabo
Vermont

Real joy

Some thoughts

Yesterday was the first time I smiled a real smile in a long time, and it felt good to feel joy. I will have thoughts on the year in another post, but I am going to focus on Christ. I won't focus on others thoughts of me. I will be me.
Merry Christmas.

My wish

Every time I'm sour or wanting to be mean, God does something to remind me of His Goodness. That is a gift whose meaning never ceases to amaze me. We live in a world needing Him, and the only way some may see Him is through me. Faith teaches me not to seek perfection in myself or the world, the babe in swaddling cloths is Perfection.
God, the Righteous Judge.
Take my sin, wash me clean.
Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays
You came for the sinner and the saint.
If no one has told you, God loves you and so do I.
My Christmas wish is to 'not be conformed to the world'.

Pick

Provence
Paris
Loire Valley

would you rather

Eat sour or sweet candy
Drink Sprite or ginger ale
Ski or snowboard
Have a cell phone or book
Visit Serbia or live in Russia

Pick

Salvation Army
St. Jude
Habitat for Humanity

Or tell me your favorite.

Do good

Thinking on this:  Never tire of doing good. Do good because you can.

Pick

The Plaza
a yurt in Mongolia
An Airstream in the woods

Thankfulness

Thankfulness is looking into the eyes of a child.
Thankfulness is understanding how blessed you are.
Thankfulness is understanding to say thank you and be grateful.
Thankfulness is looking up.

Choose

Spa day
$1000 at Nordstrom
Dinner at Jean-Georges

Pick

Grateful
Thankful
Hopeful

Let me know

If you know of anyone who could use encouragement, let me know. I am sending cards to kids in the hospital.  Would anyone like to join me?

Pick

Shopping in Milan
Hiking in Maine
Skiing in Switzerland

Thank you.

After yesterday's post, I have some thoughts. Thank you for loving me as I am, not how you'd like me to be. For those who wish to protect me from the vile in the world, I appreciate it. Sometimes, we must face our detractors. It teaches me and them as well. Thank you again.

Being real

I've been thinking. When did I care more about what others say and think of me than Jesus. When did I become what I detest. Jesus has me, and I see it daily. "I'm fearfully and wonderfully made". He knew I would have Cerebral Palsy. He knew all that I would need, and He provides it daily even when I doubt. I have other thoughts, but those I won't share because they're not kind. I'm having to forgive a lot these days, and selfishly I'm having to do it for me. I can't change what one thinks of me.

Would you rather

Eat oysters or clams
Drink Kombucha or orange juice
Scale Kiliminjaro or shop in Paris
Write or call
Visit Wales or live in Tahiti

Pick

Gucci belt
Ugg boots
Tiffany ring

Refocus

I realize that there are things I don't like in the world. Most of it, I can't change. I can't fight the world's battles. I can't fight my own. Most days, I survive. I don't watch news. I'm trying to limit Facebook. The only thing I can control is the kindness I show others. Refocus, Regine

Pick

See a movie
Watch a play
Sing karaoke

Giving Tuesday

It's Giving Tuesday, and I wish I could give to Cerebral Palsy foundations. What I can't give monetarily, I'm raising awareness. An awareness I wanted badly to deny. I wanted to wish away Cerebral Palsy. God finally said no more. I could no longer live the lie I wanted to be true. It amazes me how many don't know what CP is. I continue to fight the fight I didn't want, but God said I called you to it, and I will get you through it.

Pick

Stantionery
Stickers
Tape

Pick

V Neck
Crew neck
Cowl neck

Wishlist

Splurge.  Lingua Franca cashmere sweater.

Steal. Book of stamps

Cookies

Chips Ahoy
Sandles
Vienna Fingers

Rest

I'm having to do something I dread. Rest. My body is spent. CP will always be here. Bear with me. Thanks for understanding.

Pick

Fleece

Fur

Plaid

Would you rather

Toast and jam or buttered biscuit
Matcha or Coffee
Broadway or a concert
Figure Skating or Snowboarding
Visit Monaco or live in Spain

Biscuit
Coffee
Broadway
Figure Skating
Monaco

Q&A

what did you have for dessert last night?
Last letter you wrote.
Favorite Thanksgiving side
Guilty pleasure
Give or receive

Chocolate icing
To a friend
Green bean casserole
Chocolate icing
Both

Pick

Target gift card
A new set of markers
A new painting

Fashion

A YSL purse
A Burberry trench
Chanel ballet flats

Drinks

Pumpkin Spice Coffee
Earl Grey
Hot Apple Cider

Pick

Atlantic City
Branson
Disney World

Kindness

To get off my pity party, someone told me to spread kindness. If you'd like a card from me, let me know in the comments, or email me at reginekarpel@gmail.com

Talk to me

What's on your heart?

I still can't watch the news.
I'm trying to find joy in the season
Watching Planet Earth
I enjoyed candy corn last night

Would you rather

Eat Caviar or escargot
Drink a protein shake or milkshake
Sail the Atlantic or hike the Rockies
Shop local or in a department store
Visit Cambodia or live in Siberia

Pick

New York
London
San Francisco

Q&A

Last thing you baked?
Last thing you ate?
Last person you called?
Last thing you bought?
Last blog you checked.

Brownies
Pistachio Almond ice cream
Grandma
Mug as a gift
Red Rose Alley

Truth is real

The honest truth. Sometimes jealousy and what ifs cloud my mind. I should celebrate others' accomplishments, and not bemoan mine. I have to remember God has me where He wants me. I spoke of Jesus as the itinerant beggar. I must follow the example He set for all of humanity. As humans, at least for me, the desire for adoration is great. I must remember exultation is for the King, and be content with the gifts He's given me.

National Parks

Yellowstone
Yosemite
Acadia

On my heart

Praying for New York
Praying for broken hearts
Sending love to all who need it.
Be kind.

candy

Twizzler
Twix
Tootsie Roll Pop

Five years.

Five years today. It's a ride I'm so glad I took. It's a journey I needed to start. It's a place I needed to go. I needed to unearth my paint to find peace. Have I fully comes to terms with with who I an. No, but I've come to find peace. And, that is the greatest gift I could've ever been given.

Five things about me

I love receiving gifts.
My watch is my favorite piece of jewelry.
A good book is always welcome
I love my jeggings from Wal-Mart
Instagram is my guilty pleasure.

Watch

Hallmark
Sports
HBO

Remind me

Some days aren't perfect. Some days are extremely ordinary. Somedays, I feel every ache, and how I feel physically affects me mentally.  I'm human. God, remind me of my blessings and Your goodness.

Pick

Chick lit
Mystery
Nonfiction

Christmas gift

Money
Gift
Experience

Tribute

I had planned to write this Tuesday, but I feel a tug to post this. I have contemplated writing this for months, and the one thing that has me sharing this is that this advice is too important. One of the greatest humans passed unexpectedly, but his words haven't. I'd go to church Sundays looking forward to what wisdom he would impart to me. Allen never forgot to hug me, ask me how I was, and tell me how beautiful I was. He never forgot to tell me I was exactly how God thought I should be.   He saw my heart. He sought to know me, the real me. He gave me comfort, yet encouraged me to embrace the flaws. He gave me courage to follow my heart, and not the crowd. He and I didn't agree on everything, but I never felt demonized for it. He was one of the few who encouraged me to keep writing as long as I loved it, and it glorified Jesus.   When I pondered questions I couldn't answer, Allen told me something I'll never forget. He said "Jesus was an intinerant beggar, and not fully ever loved or appreciated."  "If He was fine with that.  He didn't have to finish that sentence. Five years. I'm in awe. If I can still love it, and glorify Jesus, I'll do this. My net worth is not determined by dollar bills or human approval. Jesus, in all, let Your love be glorified.

Pick

Chicken and rice
Steak and baked potato
Chili and cornbread

Thank you.

A special day is coming up, and I'm in awe. Awe that Jesus saw me through. Awe that you keep showing up. Awe that what this blog is, I could have only dreamed. Awe that God would use me. Me. I'm just a girl who beat odds. I'm still a girl that beats odds, because if there's anything that life teaches:  Those who fight odds are the ones God uses to show who He is. Life teaches that people will not always give you what you so crave. Life teaches that Truth is paramount, but not always sought. I only change if I choose. All this to say:  Thank you. God, I shouldn't doubt You. I shouldn't doubt myself.

Pick

perfume
Lipstick
Mascara

Strong.

When you learn how strong you are, you thank God. Thank you for all You are. Love you Lord.

Pick

Blogger
Tumblr
YouTube

Either or

Chicken tenders and fries
Tomato soup and grilled cheese
Spaghetti and meatballs

Pick

Frog
Rabbit
Cat

Would you rather

Eat pancakes or eggs
Drink cider or tea
Hike or see a movie
Buy flowers or chocolate
Visit Prague or live in Morroco

Wear

Blazer
Cape
Poncho

Pick

Pearl necklace
Diamond ring
Tennis bracelet

View

It is hard for me to stay engaged in the world today. I want to say something, but it's hard to be nice. It's everything I can do not to scream, curse or cry. My best friend told me something I couldn't explain. I see the world as it is, not as I want it to be. I think deeply. She said "most are not going to do that". She said it takes time to understand people like me. Disability has shaped me in a way I can't explain or fully understand myself. Rooted in the truth in a world that needs it.

Pick

Oreo
Crackers
Biscuits

Pick

Pumpkin bread
Banana bread
Zucchini bread

Grateful.

I'm blessed.
I had a great meal today.
My parents love me.
I went to Trader Joe's today.

Wear

A scarf
A bracelet
A hat

Pick

Win a car
Win a trip
Receive a package from a friend.

Pick

Camisole
Tank
Crop top

Fun part twelve

What you ate for lunch?
Last person you called?
Last person you text?
Last trip you planned?
What trip you want to plan?

Thoughts

Some things I've learned.
I put myself out there, and so comments can hurt and sting, but your comments say more about the commenter than me.
 I can't take slights too personally.
I don't care if we don't agree, but can we agree to be kind.

Pick

Movie
TV show
Music

Pick

Bugles
Pringles
Cape Cod Kettle Chips

Christmas shopping

Have you started Christmas shopping?

Would you rather

Eat sweets or oysters
Drink ouzo or apple juice
Kickboxing or weights
Meet Barack or Dine with Michelle
Visit Singapore or live in Uzbekistan

Pick

Gummy worms
Sour Patch Kids
Chex Mix

Love

After my post about Jesus, I realize I can't change minds or hearts, only He can. If you disagree or agree with me, I accept and respect both responses. I must love people, as He did and does. I can't control anything, but how I love. God Bless.
Regine

Praying.

Praying for Las Vegas. Please join me.

Pick

Crossword
Word search
Sudoku

Would Jesus be welcomed in America

After watching news, reading social media, and living in my community, I wonder if Jesus would be welcomed in America.  Healthcare, the NFL, and Puerto Rico. I wonder what our olive-skinned Savior would say. We talk a good game, but we fail Him miserably. Would He be extremely vetted? Would we deny Him care for a pre-existing condition?  Would He be hassled for kneeling?  Would his citizenship be questioned because of His brownness?  Aren't we all children of God?  We hate what we don't know. Discrimination still follows me. Ignorance about my disease still follows me. I have to give an explanation about it everyday. When a random person starts speaking to me in Spanish before English, I wonder. When you ask ask about my background because I looked permanently tanned, I wonder. When people say you're so smart, why can't you perform a certain task, I go into a lengthy discussion as to why. When other Americans question my patriotism because I had the nerve to voice my displeasure with a governmental agency over their practices.  My patriotism has nothing to do with being mistreated by the TSA.   Living in today's world means you take and accept discrimination, and say thank you anyway.   I've been a follower of Christ for years, but I honestly question if I would follow now. I don't question the goodness of Christ. I question His followers. I wonder if there are two Jesus. This pains me to write.   Someone once told me if I'm afraid to offend, I'm not doing my job. Having a different view of fighting for equal treatment under the law is not unpatriotic. I salute the flag, because I couldn't be me anywhere else in the world, but I respect your decision to kneel.   When a commenter said they understood my decision to speak up, but when they are afraid to say anything to fellow believers in church, and may be looked down on, my heart broke. We Christians may need to look in the mirror.   I write this for a variety of reasons. Those being ostracized or criticized have loved and taught me so much. It is the person of color, and the atheist who showed up to validate me when others would not. Two, I'm tired of my patriotism called into question because I fought for my own human dignity. Three, I'm tired of being told I'm the wrong kind of Christian. Four, I fighting the stigma of disability. I'm worthy.

Pick

Starbucks
Amazon
Boutique

Fun part eleven

Last dip you ate?
Last drink you drank?
Last movie you watched?
Last song you danced to?
Last person you lifted up?

Pick

Pumpkin Spice Latte
Apple Crisp
Pumpkin Pie

The bell

Somebody asked me this morning, what was upsetting me. This may not be something you want to read. Every so often I get my bell rung. Not in the traditional sense. Yesterday I had an experience that reminded me why I fight. I don't want to is no longer a viable option. Why does a person's simple mistake enrage me?  Ask. As a disabled person operating in an able-bodied world, sometimes simple mistakes cause me complications I can't fix on my own. Any trying to explain why each time is trying my every nerve. And when simple mistakes keep happening, I'm at a loss for nice words. I have a feeling I will be told that this happens to us all no matter who we are. However,  when you live in a world that gives an impression that you are substandard, it's hard to just hear the "sorry". Maybe, I'm looking at it wrong, but we no longer seek compassion, discourse and humanity.

Would you rather

Eat plants or meat
Drink your veggies or fruit
Jog or bike
Shop or visit a museum
Visit Canada or live in Mexico

Thoughts

I had a frustrating day yesterday. And it made me wonder.
I'm so upset that a simple mistake can enrage me.
I'm upset that I have to keep teaching people.
I'm upset that I have to keep explaining that when you are dependent for certain things one's mistakes affect now only you but others as well.
I guess that is what gets me most.
My thoughts.

Favorite gift

Favorite gift to receive

Gift

Favorite gift to give?

Pick

Scarf
Candle
Pie

Fun part ten

last thing you ate
Last app you checked
Last Amazon purchased
Last tv show watched
Last thing you cooked

Thoughts.

I miss the days of snail mail. I long for it.

Truth

Honestly, I've tried to do posts that are happy because the events of the world are so sad. I'm tearing up just thinking about it. I'd like to talk more about it, but it seems like we can't agree to disagree. We've lost something. I need courage to speak the truth, no matter the cost to my pride, page views be darned. When did I become become beholden to what others think.   When did my search to be liked, become greater than speaking the truth.

Would you rather

Eat jelly beans or waffles
Drink Orangina or egg nog
Shop at a flea market or sample sale
Curl hair or straighten it
Visit Alberta or live in the Philippines

Pick

Jethro Tull
Bob Dylan
Doobie Brothers

Pick

A DVF dress
Chanel bag
A year supply of Halloween candy pick

Mail

If you were to send me a box with some of your favorite things, what would be in the box?

Fun part nine

last thing you read
Last game you played
Last person you text
Last time you were thankful
Last blog you read

prayer requests

Any prayer requests?

Would you rather

Eat borscht or baklava
Drink seltzer or fruit juice
Win an Emmy or design gardens
Wear a dress or make them
Visit Alaska or live in Italy

Pick

Dinner with Emeril
Chat with the Pope
Shopping with your best friend in Paris

Fun part eight

Last thing you ate
Last gift you got
Last gift you gave
Last person you hugged
Last person you complimented

Confessions

Jesus has been so merciful to me. He rewards faith. He is loyal to His children. Thank you Lord for your goodness. I love you.
John 3:16

Would you rather

eat rice or potato
Drink cranberry juice or a smoothie
Snowboard or waterski
Splurge on a meal or shoes
Visit Malaysia or live in Vancouver

Pick

Louis Vuitton
Marni
Macy's

Fun part seven

last thing you did
Last thing you saw
Last thing you heard
Last thing you watched
Last thing you said

Pick

Sourdough
Wheat
Rye

Mood

Soul is tired, but heart is happy.

Would you rather

Eat candy corn or mussels
Drink root beer or V8
Boogie board or swim
Watch a movie or act in one
Visit Capri or live in South Korea

Irma

Please pray for those in the path of Irma.

Fun part six

Mom's name
Ancestry
Drink order
Favorite salad
First language

Fun part five

Last dessert you made
Last dessert you ate
Last jewel you bought
Last Starbucks order
Last flight you took

Pick.

Cheetos
Doritos
Sour Cream and Onion

Fun part four

Last website you visited
Favorite dress you own
Celebrity crush
Most used emoji
Last movie you saw

Sunday blessing.

Brutal honesty. On Friday, I was sitting in a doctor's office, bored, so I started texting my best friend. I got tired of texting. I was alone in the waiting room so I called instead. We were talking, and as I was she told me something that I've thought of much. She said I sell myself too short. I know she's right. I've taken to heart all the discouraging things said about me, and held them as truth. It's time I discarded them, and rely on what God says about me. Maybe when you discourage me, I should just pray for you. Kill them with kindness. Love those that loathe you.

Would you rather

Eat dates or figs
Drink Kombucha or green tea
Make s'mores or paella
Watch college football or play with your dog
Visit Cambodia or live in Newfoundland.

Forgiveness

Why is it so hard to forgive?  I know I must. I know it's in my best interest. I know it benefits me. I know if someone's hurt me, it's more a reflection of their character, not mine. With all these good things, you'd think I could forgive or want to. I'm all too human. Help me Lord to forgive those who've wronged me years ago or yesterday. Pruning:  painful and prickly, especially for stubborn people like me.

Pick Jam

blackberry

strawberry

Orange marmalade 

Fun part three

Last person you text?
Last person you hugged?
First thing you do when you get up?
Most worn thing in your closet?
Favorite keepsake?

My best friend
My dog
Depends
Jeans
Stuffed animal

Thank you for your love and support yesterday.

Pray.

Brutal honesty here. I'm struggling with fear, pride, and maladies of the mind. Ever feel for every step forward, you take two steps. Maybe one day, my pride will fall. The wall I've built is so high.

Fun part two

Last thing you drank?
First person on your speed dial?
If I turned on your tv, what channel would it be on?
Your pet's name
Your major in college?

Water
Mom
News or Tennis Channel
Tebow, Bruiser and Petey
Political Science

Fun

Name
City, State or Country where you live
Last food you ate
Favorite place you visited this summer
Zodiac

Would you rather?

Eat scallions or shrimp 

Drink IPA or Aperol

Ski or row

Buy or donate

Visit Slovenia or live in New Hampshire. 

Pick

Cowboys
Longhorns
Barbecue
Praying for Texas.

Would you rather?

Eat lobster or cake
Drink Malbec or Prosecco
Buy earrings or shoes
Fly or drive
Visit Thailand or live in Vermont

Praying.

Praying for Texas and Charleston.

Reminders

God is showing me what having faith really is. This morning was not my morning. I was very internally grumpy. I wrote my previous post to make myself believe it even if I didn't feel it.  I then get one comment on Instagram that would change my tune. God knew I needed it. I am blessed, and when I don't feel it, I am quickly reminded.

Blessings.

Having to count my blessings, and put a smile on my face.

Pick

Watermelon

Cherries 

Orange

Would you rather

Eat spanakopita or tart
Drink Perrier or Muscle Milk
Spinning or Pilates
Thrifting or high end
Visit Croatia or live in Barbados

Praying

Sending love and praying for those who need it. 

Twitter

Joined Twitter.   Who do I follow?  Handle?

Eclipse

Are you watching the eclipse today?

Pick

Green
Purple
Red

Fun

First words that come to mind with the letter J?

Would you rather

Eat peppers or snails
Drink milk or juice
Garden or swim
Buy a condo or rent a cottage
Visit China or live in Bali.

Love.

Love conquers all.

Pick

Sriracha
Tandoori
Allspice

Pride in broken ways

Today I took the time to read a book. I took time to revel in the silence. To be one with oneself. I contemplated my life. I've come to peace with Cerebral Palsy. I've come to peace with my faults. I've come to peace knowing that the life I had come to despise, is one God knew I needed. I don't want answers. Answers don't breed peace, they breed heartache. Christ is the only Truth I want. I've come to realize I desire to want to want Him more than wanting Him for neediness. When I can show my hockey pucked abdomen and be proud, He's working in my prideful heart.  Will I ever be healed or whole, I can't answer. I work best as a broken vessel.

Fun

First four words that come to mind with the letter C?

Love.

Feeling blessed, grateful and very humbled. Thank you.

Would you rather?

Eat pickles or jam
Drink spring water or Crystal Light
Play soccer or watch baseball
Buy a bag or get a massage
Visit Quebec or live in Curaçao

Grateful

Grateful for the love of Christ.

Pick

Ketchup
Mustard
Mayonnaise

Worship

Favorite worship song?

Thank you.

Thank you for your love and support. I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Thank you.

Can I be honest?

I am exhausted. My body is telling me to rest. I can't fight Cerebral Palsy. My posts are brief. Honestly, I know. Right now, brief will have to do.
God Bless.

Would you rather

Eat salmon or eat beef
Drink water or tea
Skydive or do karate
Wear a watch or kerchief.
Visit Rome or live in Japan

Remember

Sometimes I have to remind self.
It's ok to make mistakes.
It's ok to post something no one likes as long as I do.
It's ok to breathe.

Strength

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13

Surrender. Word for the day.

Some days I need Christ's strength to surrender.

Let go

Some days it takes all I have to choose joy. Breathe in, then let go.

Pick

Take the stairs
Take the elevator
Neither

Grateful

What are you grateful for?

Would you rather

Eat an oatmeal raisin cookie or an avocado
Drink Pellegrino or Sangria
Shop or Ski
Kiss a dolphin or kiss a trophy
Visit Spain or live in Sicily

Joy

In 34 years, I never thought I'd have to eat this much humble pie, but I'm consuming it daily.   Good advice will come to haunt you with its accuracy. Waiting pays off it's just not fashionable. I could cry tears of joy. Focusing on the good.

Faith

I would have never believed, but God He is leaving me speechless. He does the impossible. Have faith.

Pick

Mykonos
Monaco
St. Tropez

Would you rather?

Eat fruits or vegetables
Drink Champagne or Perrier
Sail or handglide
Invest in a bag or shoe
Visit Ireland or live in Portugal

Life

I was thinking yesterday. Disability forces you to wait. And for the most part, I've not been joyful about it. AT ALL. These days, I'm doing an about face. I can't change a whole lot, so I'm changing the one thing I can. My attitude. I can't be bitter. Bitterness doesn't make my dreams come faster, it just makes the journey sad. Life isn't roses, but it's worth it's worth the attempt. God Bless.

Pick

Happiness
Willingness
Waiting

Love.

Lesson:  I underestimate God every day. I was so worried that nobody would wish me a happy birthday. I didn't matter. I want as popular as my sisters. I have been overwhelmed by the love, but the others words added to it were more than I could dream of. To be told you matter,  it's one of the best presents I could have received. Thank you all. Your love for me is something that leaves me speechless. Thank you for speaking life into my weary soul. Money can't buy what you've given me today. All my life, I've been told one thing and shown another. Words matter. Thank you.

Birthday

When you come to another birthday, You reflect. You thank God. You find that life's hardships and unfairness have made you who you are. I celebrate this day knowing I'm alive, "fearfully and wonderfully made" and blessed to know that with God I do not suffer vainly. My sufferings, joy and triumphs are all part of His Divine Will. John 15:4 "Remain in me and I will in you". Thank you Lord for making life worthwhile.  

Would you rather

Eat crab or linguine
Drink Cabernet or iced latte.
Drum or play percussion
Wear tanks or turtlenecks
Visit Italy or be a nomad

Faith

I'm trying to stretch my faith, and not fear. I'm doing one thing a day that scares me. I'm putting my feet in the water. It's scary. I'm doing it, because if I don't I won't grow. That's all I have for today. Any more would be disingenuous.

Personal post.

As I evaluate certain things about myself, I realize some things I need to work on. It's ok to be deliberate. It's okay not to have the answers, or the right ones. I don't have to feel guilty because others may not understand or accept you. Most of all, it's okay to be human. I haven't given myself the benefit of the doubt. I haven't been kind to self, and that is not okay. I'm so afraid of doing or saying the wrong thing. I worry about others' feelings and not my own. I wonder when I will have the confidence to stop apologizing for who and what I am, and believe in.   Lord, let my faith be strong enough that what you think and say about me is the only thing that matters. It shouldn't be hard, but it is.

Pick

Mexico
Myanmar
Madagascar

Would you rather

Take a power nap or sleep at night
Eat berries or brats.
Drink water or coffee
Sing oldies or spoken word
Live in Maine or visit Vietnam

Thoughts.

I need to give myself grace everyday.
I have no control over others thoughts of me
I am no longer fighting battles I can't win.
Change is gradual, it takes years
Sometimes chocolate and champagne are a good thing.

Pick

Intelligence
Kindness
Perseverance

Would you rather

Eat apricot or drink a smoothie
Have your ears pieced or a tattoo.
Wear sweats or a bikini
Run on a treadmill or climb a mountain.
Visit Hamburg or live in Tulum

Mom

This post is not about me.  It's about someone I love. She doesn't know I'm writing this. I wasn't there to witness it, but I am proud nonetheless. My parents went to Wal-Mart yesterday, for what exactly I cant describe. When in a small-town you are destined to see someone you know, or think you know. That's exactly what happened to my mom yesterday. I may not retell the story here as accurately, but I will try. In the sporting goods department of the Wal-Mart, two grown men came up to my mom, asked her if she was Ms./Mrs. so and so. These grown men happened to be two or her former students. What happened next is the stuff only God can do. These men told their sons that my mom was the best teacher they ever had. "The hardest in terms of discipline, but they learned their math."  To have others heap such effusive praise on someone you love puts it all into perspective. Our struggles are rewarded. It makes me realized how blessed I am that I still get to be taught by her. I'm a part of her great legacy. I think it was Maya Angelou who said "People won't remember what you did, but how you made them feel."  Present and future generations would be wise to remember this. Accomplishments are great, but character is forever. My late grandfather would always tell me you're either good or bad. I would always seek a more complicated answer. It can't be that simple. Pop Pop, if you can read this:  You were right. "Oh Lord Forgive Us."  Lord, Forgive Me. I am so profoundly blessed. Love others as if that's the only gift you can afford to give them.

Thankful

What are you thankful for?

Pick

Have health
Have wealth
Have faith

Getting to know you.

How do you take your coffee?
Favorite band in high school?
What is your dream job?
Guilty pleasure?
What is your middle name?

Pick

Hershey's
Twix
Reese

Love

Just a heads up. Emotional post. This blog started as a way for me to get out of my own head.  I had too much pain, enough anger and resentment that could last a lifetime that was a ticking time bomb. If you are disabled, a disclaimer should be issued. If you thought childhood was a rough time, wait until you get older, to face a world you're not prepared to meet. Great parents help, but they can't shield you from blunt force trauma to your psyche. There is good in the world, but you may meet wolves in sheeps clothing. Back then, I was an uber-idealist. The world was roses and coffee beans. I had blinders on. Those years hardened me, and frankly I haven't dredged them up until now. Until I finally decided to address this elephant. Cerebral Palsy, how, I have detested you. I hated you. Now I just deal with you. People now know of this space, and its success and now don't question my abilities as much. It's flattering, but I had to prove it. Maybe I didn't. God just said:  Watch. God does for me more than I could ever dream to ask. I'm glad my best friend was persistent that day.   I've heard it said, God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called.

Would you rather

Eat at a restaurant or home cooked meal
Drink alcohol or Kool-aid
Cardio or weights
Buy clothes or candles
Visit St. Barts or live in Costa Rica

Thank you.

Thank you for all your well wishes following my hospital visit. Every time I think of things as routine, it is not. The anxiety of it all is not fun. There is something about a hospital that puts your ego in check, your nerves on alert. Nothing about a hospital to bring out all human emotions. There is nothing like it. I would describe the procedure, but it's almost too visceral. Maybe one day. Right now, it's too real. Thank you. When you have health, you have it all.

A few days off.

Resting. Be back next week.

Hospital

Had a long day at the hospital yesterday. Cerebral Palsy is no joke. Tired

Pick

Fear
Hope
Assurance

Would you rather

Eat shrimp or drink V8
Swim in the Bahamas or hike the Alps
Pet a cat or own a dog
Play baseball or watch tennis
Live in Canada or visit Cuba

Grateful for the reminder

I just read a blog comment that made the light bulb go off. "I'm handicapped, but my mind is clear" and folks what a blessing to be able to articulate my hopes, fears, dreams and aspirations. I've taken that for granted. I haven't taken proper stock. My value is not in a dollar bill, a principality or societal norm. Cerebral Palsy is allowing me the greatest gift. Not giving a darn. When you go under the knife more times than you can count, and consider having needles inserted into your abdomen as no big deal or routine, what others think of you is no big deal. My body is high maintenance, so what. I'm grateful for every doctor, everything. I'm learning what it is to love self without fear of reprisal. Thank you Sheri. "The mind is a terrible thing to waste" or take for granted.

Choosing

Choosing joy, peace and hope

Pick

Swing
Slide
Seesaw

Would you rather?

Eat a date or drink Perrier
cuddle a dog or pet a snake
Swim laps or run them
Emmanuel Macron or Ted Cruz
Visit Chaing Mai or live in Germany

The tongue

I was reading a blog post at Mix and Match Mama, and it got me thinking. Not a good thing. I have three other siblings. One older brother, and two sisters. We are triplets. I will preface this by saying this. They all are very successful. I am happy for their success, and I love them very much. All this to say, I've had to find myself apart from them. I've been compared to them and their success. I couldn't deal. I couldn't deal with being the only "defective" one. I could handle being asked what I would do with my life. I could help feeling like a "problem" child. I couldn't handle life. I couldn't handle my own questions. It's been said I "preach". Folks without God...I can't. It's just too painful. God is the reason I rise out of bed. The only thing worse than a battered body is a broken mind and soul. I can't explain it, and for the first time, I'm letting the tears fall. I have feared weakness so long. I am not my siblings. I can't duplicate their success. What is my contribution to society?  That question has haunted my soul for years. I can't be a politician, as I once wanted. No deep pockets, too many skeletons and I'm not a good liar. Words hurt, and I've tried to erase them. I can't. The tongue destroys. Now I know the words used to hurt me, God uses to redeem me. I am scared and worried to publish this.

Gratitude

Gratitude:
Waking up.
A Savior
Forgiveness
Joy
A good meal

Happy Birthday America.

Happy 4th to all. I'm proud to be an American.  I can pray. I can complain. This country allows people like myself to thrive. Have fun. Be safe. God Bless.

Pick

Pimm's
Tea
Strawberries and cream

Would you rather

Cook in the kitchen or sing in the shower
Climb a mountain or walk the beach
Meet Sting or act with Robert DeNiro
Eat clams or drink tea
Sunbathe in St.Tropez or live in Gstaad

Want vs.need.

I'm learning how to fight correctly. I'm almost exhausted enough to seriously consider total surrender. I'm learning that I want Christ, as opposed to just needing Him. I will always need Him,but will I always want Him?  Being me means I will always fight my pride. This is something I will fight. Being me means I will encounter injustice.  It's a fact of life. One I can acknowledge.  It shouldn't be. Sometimes I must accept that I can't change people, and move forward with the calling Christ has set before me. Acceptance of others leads to acceptance of self. A friend once told me I would come to a point where I would finally reach my point of exhaustion. I would get so tired, I would stop fighting the monkey. I had doubts this day would come. I no longer doubt.

Pick

Art lessons with Picasso
Cooking with Jose Andres
Shopping with Linda Fargo.

Never thought.

Realizing that we all want love and validation. God is allowing me courage to write words I wouldn't know when I'd be ready to write. I don't have all I want, but I'm learning true contentment until that day come.

Would you rather

Give up sugar or give up Internet
Meet Madonna or vacation with Richard Branson at Necker Island
Drink Kombucha or eat black-eyed peas
Shop at Barneys or Dance with ABT
Visit Sweden or live in Kenya

Faithful

Thinking again. God is so faithful to me, and I don't reciprocate.  Do I believe He can find me my mate?  I waver.  Maybe I'm tired of waiting. My life feels like a waiting game. I don't have enough gratitude or that dreaded p word. That is discussed in a prior post. I am a ball of uncertainty, when the only certainty is You.  You know every part of me, and that's scary. Refining is scary. Surrender. What you want. Are we ever fully surrendering?  Ripping the band-aid has been one of the most freeing experiences. I'm Regine, and I have Cerebral Palsy. Denial be darned. The dreaded d word. I could write a sermon on denial. I've spent years there. Freeing self seems so easy yet so hard.

Pick

LA
DC
Miami

Adventures in online dating

This is a post I didn't really want to write. As a disabled woman who doesn't drive and lives in a rural area, dating can be difficult.  After much consideration I chose to embark in the world of online dating. It's been an education to say the least. I joined a reputable faith-based site or so I thought.  My emotions have run the gamut, my heart has gone through the gauntlet. I have been excited, angry and numb at some point during the journey. I have communicated with some men who the spark wasn't there, and we gradually moved on, but this scenario was few and far between. I have had far too many Mr. X's who just wanted action, and I didn't sign up for that.  Sorry, but this "cutie" doesn't like that.   I've had my body scrutinized like cows at the cattle sale in search of imperfections.   My face has been not pretty enough, and my hips, buttocks and thighs have been analyzed more thoroughly than I could have ever imagined. I've had two experiences in particular that have shaken me to my core. The first, C, and I had gotten to a point where we texting for hours each night, and sending daily emails. I thought he was promising in that my CP was a nonissue to him, and he liked me for me. One morning, C text me saying he would be visiting a location close enough for my parents to drive me to meet him. I was nervous and ecstatic all at the same time. My excitement would be short-lived.  The next morning, I text C "Good morning" per usual. He texts back saying I sent you an email. I excitedly check my email. My excitement soon turned to shock.   Nothing ever ends well when the first words are "Full Disclosure Regine".  In the span of 24 hours, I would learn I was just one of the women he was talking to, and that he had found the "One".  He enjoyed talking to me, but that's it. We would no longer meet.  Case of cold feet some friends have said. I don't know.  To add insult to injury, the day before I was a social media sleuth, I looked him up on Facebook, I would find out that who he claimed to be from his profile pic and Facebook didn't match. I looked him up, I don't why. Maybe intuition.
This next experience leaves me shaking my head seeking male input. I had B send a message on the dating site asking about the photos I had posted. I tried to answer them the best I could. His verdict:  My ample bosom pleased him, no doubt. The problem upon further inspection was that my lower half looked heavy. This was a major sticking point. He informed me that my heavy bottom half would impede his ability to perform in the bedroom. Blame the thigh gap. I'm still in shock.  Men, can you explain this to me.   After composing myself, I replied that it was a no-go for me and best of luck. I thought this was the end of the conversation, alas  it was not to be.   He then answered, saying "He was a practical man, who took his husbandly duties seriously, and the ability to please his wife intimately was paramount."  It's my fault you can't perform. I have a many thoughts on this, but none are good. During this exchange my look of incredulity grew, I was speechless, and still am.
After many other experiences with online dating, I need a break. I get carnal urges and desires, I do.  I have them to, but I am not one purely looking to satisfy an urge. I am more than my body weight. Online Dating was a good thing in that it taught me what I am looking for, versus what I'm not. I believe the right man is out there for me, I just haven't met.

Would you rather?

Speak English or sing in Spanish
Run a marathon or Sprints
Eat greens or drink wine
Hugs or kisses
Visit Japan or live in France

Getting honest.

Honesty is a hard thing to have with self. Learning lessons the hard way. Seems it's the only way I learn.

Pick

Today Show
CBS This Morning
Good Morning America

Pick

Grass
Hard
Clay

Would you rather

Use a Bosu ball or do Pilates
Sing pop or dance techno
Pink nails or Red lips
Read or watch tv
Visit the Acropolis or live in Jaipur

Truth

The truth sets you free, I'm finding out. Discussing my Cerebral Palsy is painful, but necessary. It's a role, I never wanted, but now embrace slowly. The band-aid is slowly coming off.   God gets what He wants, you get what you need.

Faith

Do I trust God?  Really trust Him?  Trust Him with every desire?  Everything?  Honestly, no. If I did I wouldn't question why so much. I'm ashamed, but writing this helps me to see what needs improvement. My attitude. My sense of entitlement with God. I expect a lot from God, and I don't like waiting. I say that often. I haven't thanked Him enough. I haven't been obedient.   I'm focused so much on my wants, that I haven't thanked Him for supplying for all my needs. Thank you Lord for this body which I take for granted regularly. Thank you for nourishing me physically.  Spiritually, thank You for the lessons you continue to teach me. Lord, forgive me.

Pick

Beach

Pool

Lake

Honesty

My hearts hurts. Waiting is hard.  When we want what we want, and we feel like we're being denied. Having faith is hard. Having faith greater than my fear. I struggle. Finding joy in suffering.

Would you rather

Visit Europe or live in China
Eat curry or drink tea
Meet the Pope or your congressman
Word search or numbers
Play tennis or golf

Pick

M&M cookie
Milkshake
Ice Cream

Forgiveness

Heard the song 'Forgiveness' by Matthew West, and all I could think was I need all of this. I need to love the unlovable, and I need that forgiveness to free me.   Thank you Lord for letting me hear that song.

Would you rather?

Eat chocolate or drink tequila
Call or text
Watch television or play football
Win or draw
Type or write

The dreaded p word

Contemplated how much to share, but my pain has me thinking. Thinking is not a good thing for me. My pain has me in a state of what ifs. What if I don't find the "One"?  What if I'm unlovable?  Should I continue.  This sounds like a pity party, I'm well aware. This brings me to yesterday. In a local dining establishment getting an ice cream cone when small chit chat would knock me off my high horse. There was a wise African American male who let me go in front of him to order or so I thought. It turns out he was just waiting for his food. We got into a conversation about patience. The dreaded p word.  He said we have a problem with it because its not being taught. I told him I didn't have a good relationship with it. I'm always trying to get out of the way. He said I was fine. The problem was that "God would give us all we need."  I said not all we want. "He said that God never said life would be a rosy bush, but we would be merciful to give you the desires of your hearts".  I started complaining about my weekend, and how people had wronged me.  He stopped me mid sentence. He said my problem wasn't people, but my faith. Talk about being humbled. I wanted to respond, but knew I couldn't. The truth stung.   As someone who writes about faith often, I got a lesson in action. My life has to be a demonstration in faith, active, living faith. I was never more in awe how God could use an ice cream cone, my own words and this man in serving something I don't think I'll forget.

Pain

This weekend saw some highs then some lows. Heartbreak is not fun. I don't know whether to share. It's a pain that leaves me feeling undesirable and lacking. I know I can't generalize, but it's hard. I can get pretty negative, so I will feel the pain, and go. Trusting God is hard, but necessary.

Pick

Chicken Sausage
Turkey Bacon
Steak

Fear.

I hope I can let me pride and fear go.

Would you rather?

Give a hug or get one
Speak French or paraglide
Eat Chorizo or Cheese
Be a pop star or chef
Diamond or gemstone

Right

There is something that has got me thinking. That's not a good thing.  Why do we defend those who can defend themselves, but disregard the indefensible.  We are a divided people, period. I think we have a problem, one with no clear answer. As a person who writes this, I am responsible for my commentary in this space. I have to expect the good reaction, and the unsavory ones too. I chose it, by choosing to write this blog. There are some though who didn't ask for the slight that accompanies them. My problem is with those who as want the benefits of the limelight, but can't deal with the consequences. We have lost our nerve, our duty to do what's right even if it costs us. As the King and Country song says "Oh Lord Forgive Us".

Pick

Chocolate
Cake
Brownie

Faithful surrender

Surrender. What a word so hard to do. Knowing that once you do,  You admit that you do not know what's best for you. No control. Just faith.

Would you rather

Have a smartphone or buy a new camera
Eat avocado or octopus
Beach or lake
Doughnut or Pretzel
Hope or Joy

Go

One of the hardest things I'm having to do is letting go.  Letting go of fear. Letting go and just being myself. I am a great person, now I just have to believe it. My faith in Him has to greater than than the fear inside me.

Birthday

Today is my Mom's birthday. Loves me unconditionally. I love you. Blessed.

Pick

Newspaper
Internet
TV

Would you rather

Drink a Bloody Mary or eat grapefruit
Cut grass or Clean Bathrooms
Scuba dive or scale buildings
Watch scary movies or read a book
Use color pencils or markers

Fear then Trust

I am having to face fear in every form. It's not easy for every misconception, every hang up to be out there for every one to see. Why is so hard to let go, and when you do, you feel like you can breathe. I feel like I haven't breathed in years. When does the fear go away?  Or does it?  I don't know if I've ever fully trusted God. God is laughing. He is. Why is surrender then acceptance so hard?  I don't have answers, and maybe that's the point. Live. Just live

Pick

Doctor
Lawyer
Teacher

Fear

Life can shock you, amaze you. God is laughing right now. I always have what ifs in my mind. It's fear. I've been ruled by fear for so long, I don't know freedom. I'm embracing the fear. That may be the only way I taste freedom. I haven't embraced fear, because I haven't wanted to accept its existence. I hide. I don't want you to see the pain. I've locked it all up for safe keeping. I want to control everything even when I don't have it.   I'm a prideful, private person. Here I try to let it go.

Pick

French fries

Hash browns 

Home fries

Saved

Am I living a life that says I got saved as the title of Selah's song says?  I'm thinking.

Would you rather

Eat snails or calamari
Do a reality show or run a 5k
Cupping or oil pulling
Tracksuit or jumpsuit
French Open or PGA

Real

Today is not my best day. I'm a little sad, wondering if I did anything wrong, said the wrong thing. My heart is somewhere else. My head is too. I'm sorry.

Faith

My heart aches. I struggle to have faith in humanity. In goodness. We don't love. We don't care. I know there is good, but I question. I have to faith in God to give me peace.

Pick

Unexpected gift
Smile
Hug

Pick

Sweet tea
Green tea
Chai tea

The truth hurts

The truth hurts why?  Because I'd rather be in denial. It's hard to admit that what we need, is most of the time what we want. Cerebral Palsy has taught me that I am like the tortoise. I hate to be slowed down. I want to appear as if nothing's wrong, but that's a lie. I can't live in a lie. I'm learning I don't have to cultivate perfect. I'm ok as I am. I'm not the mistake I thought God made. God can use me.

Would you rather

Ski the Alps or drive a Maserati
Drink beer or wine
Sing or Dance
facial or manicure
Wear heels or fishnets

Survey

I have some things on my mind.
I've joined it. I get it.  It's fun, but I get the fear of missing out already. I've got a serious question though. As a believer, I have this nagging question.  What bothers you about Christians?  Honestly, I want to know. As a follower of Christ, I could use suggestions on how we're perceived. I want to truly live a life that you know Christ resides here.

Pick

Dog

Cat

Rabbit

would you rather?

Soak in a hot tub or ice bath
Wear jeans or leather pants
Eat pretzels or ice cream
Drink greens or tea
See Thailand or live in Montreal

News

Joined the world of Instagram. Not very tech savvy, so I will attempt to learn.
Who should I follow? Are you on Instagram?

More truth

After writing my watershed post, I'm realizing some things. Not everyone will celebrate you. Not everyone will give you praise. You will realize that when you get real, you will make people uncomfortable. We all long for comfort, comfort is a recipe for stagnation. Cerebral Palsy allows me no physical comfort, but it allowed me mental comfort.  I'm coming clean. Life is no picnic. I'm learning that to follow God's call, I'm having to be as uncomfortable as the mounting callouses on my feet. I used to say I didn't wish CP on anyone. Maybe I had it wrong. Anybody want to take a walk in my shoes?  Get ready for a wild ride. Change requires a total loss of what you want. The only One who can give me what I want is God.  And that can be painful. My friend Allen always told me, you don't know how beautiful you are.  I miss you friend for showing me who Christ was and forever will be. You loved people as Jesus would. Sometimes we love people based on what they provide us. I can give Jesus not a thing He doesn't already have, yet He loves me anyway.

Would you rather

Sing the national anthem or public speaking
Eating snails or drink wine
Meghan Markle or Kate Middleton
Taj Mahal or Rialto Bridge
Miniskirt or Romper

Pick

Netflix
Instagram
Twitter

Love

Letting Christ be my guide.

Would you rather

Eat pasta or pizza
Drink beer or La Croix
Climb Kilimanjaro or visit Disneyland
Win a Nobel or Academy Award
Run or jog

Pick

Beatles
Rolling Stones
Pink Floyd

would you rather

Eat ramen or drink sake
Visit Paris or live in Provence
Swim with sharks or run with the bulls
Truth or dare
Fight or flight

Pick

Chocolate chip
Oatmeal raisin
Macadamia nut

Beautiful confession

After my much lauded post thanks to God and my mom, she requested I write the post., I've decided to get honest.
I've always known my calling, it's not the one I wanted, so I decided to find another one.
You see it didn't work. God finally brought me to the place where denial would lead, and still my mom pleaded for the post. What I thought would cost me, has finally given me the courage to claim the calling I never wanted.  
I'm having to be the change.

Pick

China
Maldives
Thailand

Sunday

After yesterday's post, I am going to do something God's put on my heart for years. I didn't want to be the Cerebral Palsy girl, but I will take, if that's what it takes to be treated with respect and dignity. I've been ashamed of myself, and of God for making me this way.  I realize I can't change it, so maybe embrace it?

The unvarnished truth.

This is a post I really hoped I didn't have to write. You wanted to hear my take on Cerebral Palsy, and not censor my thoughts. I realize I may lose followers, but I must. I was born with a mild case of Cerebral Palsy. Mild in that if I didn't tell you, you wouldn't know. Cerebral Palsy is an "brain disorder which affects movement and fine motor skills"as defined by reputable sources.  Doesn't seem bad, you'd think. Well to keep up the charade of looking normal is expensive as heck. Eight to ten surgeries, plus two more for a baclofen pump, not forgetting years of Botox injections in my legs, and nerve blocks in my shoulder blades, should I continue?  The years of physical and occupational therapy to learn to do so called things like brush your teeth.   Years of work in a therapist's chair to repair the damage of others' words and my OWN.   What you don't see are the bruises from falling, the countless hits to my pride as I ask for help to tighten my bra straps, among many other examples. Fighting for my right to an education, because, since you look normal, you should be able to meet our requirements without accommodation. I won't elaborate on how painful that experience was, because thinking on it, it still is. Why you ask, am I doing this?  A nice little health care bill passed the House that says, you don't matter. I have infantile Cerebral Palsy, one of those pre existing conditions.  My representative voted for it. Now, here it is folks, if you don't want the truth STOP READING.

This was a bill voted for by conservative Christians who ascribe to being pro life. The unborn is sacred, but if you're born with a medical issue, screw you. For God, who knit me in my mother's womb, and I'm fearfully and wonderfully made, Republicans said scratch that. When it says to give up all you earthly wealth, and follow me. Republicans say, nope, I don't subscribe. When God implores us to love the least of these, no, I don't need to apply that.   This tells me I better pray all unborn children are born with disease or defect. I am glad I found Christ before now, because even now as a Christian, I wonder if we read the same Bible. I have little regard for policing of either political stripe as I tired of being told, "I can't do any good if I'm not in office."  I'm tired of being told you're net worth is tied with your self worth.

I'm so tired of folks who use God to justify their actions. Maybe I  should've at least prayed to asked to  have born with a silver spoon if I had to born with this disorder according to this bill. I pray the Senate has better judgement.

Mahatma Gandhi once said, I like your Christ, I don't like your Christians. I'm paraphrasing.   Would those who love Christ, please show it.

Pick

The Amazing Race
Survivor
The Voice

Pick

Exercise
Read
Watch TV

Burst

I went to the funeral for my dear friend, and I found hope. There was a quote that spoke to me. "God uses His best soldiers in the highlands of affliction. The dam burst, and my tears flowed. I don't know if I have to explain this, but God used one sentence to push me.

Pick

Oatmeal
Eggs
Avocado Toast

Kindness

Never underestimate kindness, it can make all the difference.

Pick

Apricot
Peach
Prune

Pick

Belle
Ariel
Elsa

RIP

I came home yesterday and decided to check Facebook.  I got a sad shock yesterday. A pastor who has given me so much love and support over the years passed away from a car accident. I am just can't believe he is no longer here. RIP sweet friend. I will never forget how well you loved Jesus and others.

Truth

I have been thinking lately, and much as I dislike doing this I must. I will have to talk about Cerebral Palsy, and how it affects me. Many people have no idea what CP, and in this political climate I feel I must. I don't want keep teaching, but if I don't educate people don't know. Look I really don't want to get into a political discussion. I won't change your mind, but I need to speak the truth I have.

Mondays

Children can make you feel old and young at the same. Had a great weekend with my niece and nephew.

Pick

Jam or butter
San Francisco or LA
Buy shoes or take a trip

Pick

Chile
Argentina
Brazil

Faith

It is hard to wait when you want something so bad. I have to have faith that God knows best.

Pick

Christina Aguilera
Britney Spears
Selena Gomez

My heart

Honestly, it took going on vacation to get me to enjoy life. I'm so focused on what could go wrong, why things I earnestly want haven't begun to appear, that I forgot to enjoy the now. I constantly live in what could be, and get upset when what I want doesn't happen when I want it to.   I actually took time to savor food, friendship and the world around me. I will have days where I go back to my thinking, but I want to enjoy the now.

Pick

Cantaloupe
Cucumber
Couscous

Gratitude

Choosing gratitude today.

Pick

Savannah
Hilton Head
Charleston

Sunday

I got back from vacation and enjoyed it. I found a few things to be true.
My body is more resilient than I thought.
Vacation isn't vacation if I bring the same mindset with me.
I enjoyed more cookies than I care to count.
I'm changing.
And that's ok.

Find

Finding God will meet me where I am.

Great

Letting go and Letting God

God is good

God is good

Pick

Love or joy
Certainty or unknown
Passion or grace

Fear

Fighting fear with faith

Detox

Detox from negativity and ignorance. I used to think ignorance was bliss. How wrong was I?  Lead me Lord.

Pick

Fishing
Hiking
Shopping

Getting personal

I am feeling scared. Scared of failure, messing up, getting it wrong, and waiting too long because I don't want to face the fear. I know I can't hide forever, but it's comfortable. Why must I crave comfort?  Lord, God I need You to let me face my fear.

Pick

Monte Carlo
Marrakech
Moldova

He is Risen

On this day, I will simply say thank you Jesus.

Good Friday

It is Good Friday. And all I can wonder is if I've spread myself too thin. Doubt and worry have got come in. I'm thinking of all that could go wrong, and if it does it will be all my fault. But it's Good Friday keeps coming to mind. All this to say, in seven years of being a Christian, is that I have to remember what drew me to Him and what keeps me there.

Pick

Bikini
Tankini
One piece

Vulnerability

This is my heart. My heart wonders if I will find love. A man to love me, all of me. I realize I must love self first. If it doesn't happen can I still find acceptance and joy in Christ, the deliverer of my soul.
My heart wonders if I will see Paris.
My heart wonders if I can find the beauty in each day.

Pen pals

Are you a fan of pen pals?

Pick

Cross
Pendant
Ring

Choose

Redundant, I know.  I must choose joy.

Pick

Reese
Cadbury
Starburst jelly beans

Pain and Peace

I'm learning each day. Learning lessons I wished I fully learned years ago.  Would it have saved me some pain. As I lower expectations of people, do I include myself?  Do I hold on to the promises of who God says I am versus what the world tells me?  An eye opener for sure. How does stay an idealist when seeing harsh realities that unsettle my being.

Pick

Ice cream or sorbet
Gum or mint
Smile or wink

Perservere

I'm learning what it is to perservere once again. When I was younger I relished the challenge Cerebral  Palsy forced me to face. Now, not so much. I don't have the desire to fight the battle. Part of me now weighs do I pick that fight back up or lay it down.   Do I fight for justice, or just live, having faith that that alone is enough?

Pick

Raisins
Cherries
Peanuts

Pray

My day starts better when I pray.

Pick

Gummies
Sour worms
Hershey kisses

Tuesday

Flipped in my Bible.  I came to Proverbs 11:2. I got humbled quick. My heart and head have been filled with self-pity because I have had my heart on what I wanted, not what I have. Sometimes the only One who can humble you is God.

Pick

Blueberry
Blackberry
Raspberry

Fear

Honestly fear has gotten to me today.

Card

Would anyone be interested in receiving a card from me?

Pride

You will learn your pride has to go. I could write a lists to tell of my pride. CP makes you check yourself everyday, this I know. I'd rather do it myself than let go of my pride and ask for help. Not good folks. I hide my pain, my fear everything. I pay prices for my pride.   Pride, not CP will be my downfall. The pride has to go.

Pick

Miami
Chicago
DC

Lessons you will learn being disabled

Acceptance can take a long time depending how stubborn you are.
You will learn to wait.
You will face reality whether you want to or not.
Blissful ignorance no longer applies
You will battle your faith more than you ever thought possible.
You will learn those who love you versus an afterthought.
You will be blunt.
You will still try to see the world as a good place.
You will try to not get down on yourself.
You will have to choose joy every day.
You will have to face your fears every day.
You will know rejection and pain.
But you will find joy to keep living.

Pick

Mustard
Ketchup
Mayonnaise

Acceptance

Having a rough few weeks. Accepting who you are while others can't.  Trying to conform to a set of norms. Having to rely on the One who never fails, and Trusting His timing is testing every bit of faith I have.
God, lead to a place where Your Grace is sufficient.

Pick

Amazon
Nordstrom
Flea market

Lean

Lean on the Cross.

Pick

Cupcake
Cake
Brownie

Pick

Beauty and the Beast
The Little Mermaid
The Lion King

FHL

Faith, hope and love.   What it's all about.

Pick

Pimento cheese
Pickle
Prosciutto

Let it go

Having to remind myself to let it go.

Pick

Kentucky Derby

Wimbledon

NBA Finals

Pick

Chicken
Beef
Pork

Faith

Having to lean on my faith not flesh.

Pick

Miami
Savannah
Asheville

Pick

McQueen
Lacoste
Old Navy

Dwell

Christ loves me. I am not what others think of me. I have to dwell on His Goodness.

Pick

St. Maarten
Turks&Caicos
St.Lucia

Enjoy.

Enjoying the moment by living in it.
God is good.

Pick

Corned beef
Cabbage
Soda bread

Blessings.

Worshipping with Jesus.
I am blessed with a family that loves me.
A warm, cozy home.
A pantry that is beyond full.
Dreams.
Being able to travel
Calloused feet that tell me I'm walking
Hope in Jesus. I hope You find Him too.

What I want.

Living with Christ is hard
for I am selfish
I want what I want
With Christ
You live for others
Deny self
Our desire is not His
To love Christ
I must love other.

Pick

Anguilla
Greece
Sochi, Russia

Suffering

I've read several blog posts discussing joy in suffering. I flatly said no, but I was thinking of happiness.  Happiness in suffering I haven't found. Joy, I will see. When I immerse myself in who He is, let myself worship, my heart can appreciate His Love and Sacrifice.  So I will honor His suffering by finding joy in mine.

Pick

Germany

France

India

i need You

Lord, I need you

For what I see

I do not like. 

When I see you

I must trust 

Even when the world 

Says not

Pick

Tim Tebow
Alex Rodriguez
Roger Federer

Encouragment

Your encouragement is appreciated. Thank you so much.

Pick

Pear
Orange
Raspberry

Vulnerable

The vulnerability I feel right now is like an open wound that won't close.  Open to feel everything I once repressed. Wonder if what I want if not an option. Waiting on God is hard. Waiting is hard period. Trust is hard. Having faith is hard. Wonder if it's me. I'm trying to love self, and I wonder if it's me.

Pick

Shortbread

Pecan

Oatmeal

Denial

I've been thinking which for me can be not good.  I once thought it was great that you couldn't see my disability.  I'm finding that thinking wrong. Denial has caused me more pain than I can say.   Truth is one hard cut, but denial is a festering sore. I have to forgive myself.  I realize I haven't. Writing this last sentence has me in tears thinking of what I've done to myself.   I can't undo the pain, but I can try not to repeat it. Right now, I have to let the anger go. Not all anger is bad, but this is right now.

Pick

Tulips

Roses

Daisy

Pick

Monaco
Spain
France

Faith

Let me have faith. Faith that demonstrates belief. A belief that doesn't waver.  That needs no proof.

Pick

Rome
Florence
Venice

Praise

Thank you Lord for who You are in spite of who I am

Pick

Tuscany
Umbria
Capri

Good

Share good stuff... positivity needed

Grace

Finding you in that place. When I am face to face.  Knowing that my mistakes are not disgrace. I trust in the sovereignty of the One who took the blame. For life began when I called your Name. I come to You today seeking forgiveness for what I cannot change.

Pick

Pop
Rock
Jazz

Cerebral Palsy

I'm realizing normal isn't possible. Peace, yes. I've dreaded dependency, giving it to negativity, but that may not be so. It takes strength, Grace and courage to admit you need help even when it bruises your ego.   I have an ego, and Cerebral Palsy breaks it.

Pick

Hermes
Chanel
Wal-Mart

Cerebral Palsy

I didn't want to talk about Cerebral Palsy because I didn't want to deal with it. The pain, the agony, the shame over not having acceptance over what I have never been able to control. I didn't think people would love me because I couldn't love myself. I struggle with accepting love because I question its authenticity. I didn't want to accept the elephant in the room. As much as I said I did, I didn't. I wanted from people what I was unwilling to give myself. Truth, the one thing that doesn't lie. The scars one sees are not the bad ones. I want to trust, to love and let Truth guide me.

Shop

a sale
Vintage
Consignment

Pick

Black
Ginger
Chamomile

Thank you.

Thank you for all the love and support you continue to give. I am humbled.
Thank you.

Pick

Iced Tea
Mimosa
Martini

Free to find

The truth does set you free. It's painful. It's a bit of letting go. I haven't fully done so, and I feel ashamed. To admit you have trouble trusting Christ is embarrassing and shames me. I have fear.
Faith.  I'm seeking the Only One who completes me.
God Bless

Truth

Last week, I had a post discussing my grievances, and I got a response I didn't take well at all. Then I looked at it differently. The comment was probably meant for good. We can't interpret words, when we don't know the intent. I don't know how many of you are new readers, so I will give a reintroduction. I've avoided doing this because I realized I would open up the one wound I never really like to discuss. I'm ripping off the band-aid. I'm Regine. I'm 33. And I have Cerebral Palsy. I typed that without tears. I was told it doesn't get worse as I get older, with age though comes inconvenience. And most humans hate that word. Inconvenience brings a necessity of waiting, something I may be used to, but don't like much. You don't fix CP. The only thing you control is your mind's decision to redirect your thoughts, actions and reactions. And it requires those traits of which are lacking.   I say this in truthful acceptance. I have to make a choice to look at things in another way.
Thank you for reading, and giving feedback. It's the way we learn.

Love

Praying for Manda's family and friends. Praying for all who need them.

Pick

ball gown
V neck
Halter

Pick

Ritz
Airheads
Sour Patch Kids

Afraid

I realize I'm afraid. I'm afraid of the unknown. Afraid of what I can't fix. I want to fix myself. Knowing I can't is something I have to accept. My problem with acceptance.

Friday

Having to have faith to live everyday, and keep positive.

Pick

Sprinkles
Pretzels
Peanuts

Pick

Joy
Peace
Grace

Thank you.

Thank you God.

Pick

Uggs
Frye
Cowboy boot

Good

We have lots of hurting people in the world. Love them. Pray. God, You are Good.

Grace

Trying to stay positive.

Pick

Miami
St.Louis
Cancun

Thoughts

My heart is all over the place. Here are my thoughts.
I don't think I've ever prayed this much for God to lead me. I don't think to think I ever wanted acceptance so badly. And I've just lost my train of thought.
Blessings.

Faith

Having faith right now is hard.

Pick

walnut
Candied pecan
Brazil nut

Thursday

Does waiting ever get easier?

Pick

Bread
Cheese
Wine

Waiting

My faith is having to stretch. Waiting is painful. I know He desires the best for me, but lately I think I know what's best, and I know that's not true. I'm tired of waiting, but know I must.

Candy

Are you waiting for chocolate to go on sale?

Pick

Pink or red
Hearts or stars
Chocolate or sours

Fancy or fast

Fancy meal or fast food?

Pick

Denim jacket
Jeans
Skirt

Blessed

Most blessed.

Pick

Tie
Scarf
Handkerchief

Friday

Does fear motivate or paralyze you?

Pick

Poodle
Lab
Great Dane

Break

Getting back to Jesus. I realize how I fail Him, and He still is merciful.  I realize things about myself, and I can't hate myself. God wouldn't like it. My heart breakers for how much He loves me, and how much I don't. If truth sets free, Truth is needed. Truth is absence of indecision.

Pick

Twix
Milky Way
3 Musketeers

What I want.

Wanting what I can't have. Control. Even if it is an illusion.

Pick

Pope Francis
Mother Teresa
Jesus

Honestly

Honesty, truth, love and life. Can we handle?

learn

With disappointment comes revelation. I can't tire of doing good, believing the best. God is revealing Himself if I am willing. I spent enough time of not willing. I'm coming around. Learn from me.

Tired

I'm realizing CP is kicking my butt.
I realize I'm tired mentally and physically.
I realize I need to stop thinking.
I realizing Paleo suits my body best.
Jesus, I need you

Thank God

Sometimes, you just thank God for the good days.

Pick

Jam
Butter
Avocado

Pick

Stationery
Books
Pens

Pick

Katie Couric
Diane Sawyer
Chris Cuomo

Help

Trying to be civil.  Keep my mouth shut. This is painful.

Pick

Jambalaya
Fried chicken
Croque Monsiuer

Grace

I am on a news detox. I don't know when I will return. I listen to Christian music all day. I am in constant need to pray. I can't deal. My heart hurts. My soul cries. I no longer speak.  I love God, therefore I am to love people, but I struggle.  We no loner can have conversation, and so I cease. It's His job. I'm having to lean on who Jesus is. What would Jesus do?  Jesus is no illusion for which I give thanks.

Pick

Chocolate
Vanilla

Strawberry

Dream job

Dream job: as a child and now

Pick

Van Cleef & Arpels
Prada
Build-a-Bear

Pick

Paris
Copenhagen
Sweden

Real

If I'm honest. I'm scared. If I'm honest I accept my Cerebral Palsy, I just don't like it right now. I am frustrated.

Pick

Coffee

Tea

Soda

Pick

Love
Mercy
Faith

Pick

Nail polish

Mist

Hair oil

Pick

horse
dog
cat

Grace

I wish kindness was de riguer
Faith knew no bounds
Love others

Pick

Wink

Smile

Kiss

Pick

Chicago
Philly
Ireland

Pick

Grace
Glamour
Class

Pick

Hamburg
Surrey
Belize

Pick

Avocado

Beef

Almond

Grace with Faith

I have chosen to only post good things, not because I ignore the bad, it is because you can find that elsewhere.  I fight my flesh enough to think on such things of which I have no control. I was walking just now, and how much a blessing it is for me. I was thinking on all my blessings.  I won't complain. I have to look to Jesus. I have to pick battles.
With Christ, I'm great
Without, not so much

Pick

Diamond stud
Ruby ring
Sapphire bracelet

Pick

Massage
Facial
Manicure

Pick

Seoul
Moscow
Alaska

Grace

I want to believe in Him, for grace and mercy. I want to be joyful. Lord, you know me.  I trust you

Pick

Joy
Hope
Faith

Pick

Chalet in Switzeland
Apartment in Paris
High rise in New York

Pick

Smile
Hug
Kiss

Me

Fear is ravaging me.

Pick

Skiing in Switzerland
Hiking in Colorado
Sunning in Bora Bora

Pick

Jimmy Choo heel
Hermes Birkin
Cartier bangle

Grace

Trying to let God guide me, rid me of my fear. I have let fear take over me.

Pick

Shopping
Walking
Pilates

Pick

Prague

Bucharest 

Amsterdam 

Rx

Trying to rest, smile and take in God

Pick

Copenhagen
Amsterdam
Stockholm

Fight

Learning to love me is a battle I fight.  Wish I didn't fight this so much, but I do. With all this faith, you would have thought this would no longer bother me, but it does. Lord, let me love me

Pick

Grace Kelly
Jane Fonda
Natalie Portman

Pick

Paris
London
Venice

Great God

God knows when to speak to me. He uses my own words. I need to have faith over the fear I have. It's a struggle I know daily. I need to ask for help, receive it with humility. God works.

Pick

McQueen
Prada
Nike

Pick

Glamour
Time
Tennis

Thank you

Thank you God for loving me. I'm thankful for Your lovingkindness toward me. Why you love me I know, but can't understand. Thank you for loving me.  I don't deserve it. Thank you.

Pick

Paris
Montevideo
Myanmar

Pick

Skyscraper or farm
Hunt or museum
Avocado or soy

Pick

sequins
Stripes
Polka dots

Pick

Snow or sun
Glacier or geyser
Waterfall or creek

Pick

Laos
Berlin
Barbados

Thankful

I read a blog that just spoke to me, and now I'm thinking.  I'm frustrated. The news saddens me.  It angers me. And yet I thank God. I'm waiting to meet the right guy.  It's frustrating. When will I travel more overseas. And in the midst, I thank God. It's hard to believe and wait. So many questions.

Pick

Greenville, SC
Tulum, Mexico
Dubrovnik, Croatia

Pick

a SAG
An Oscar
A Tony

Realize

I'm realizing that for my health, I must be in constant prayer. I'm realizing that I'm must be forced to do new things. I realize that I must listen to God for my own good.   Me without God doesn't cut it. Waiting on God is frustrating, but necessary.

Pick

An exotic vacation
Hermes scarf
Chanel bag

Jewel

Favorite piece of jewelry?

My favorites

I am loving a good sale
I am loving good sweets
I'm loving good movies

Favorite

Favorite unusual place to shop?

Favorite healthy activity?

Favorite bar?

Pick

Favorite city
Favorite state
Favorite country

Pick

Castle in England
Overwater bungalow in Bora Bora
Yurt in Ulan Bator