~White Rose Valley~

Making A Difference

2011-10-22T21:33:00.003-04:00

Have you ever seen the movie Pollyanna?

It's the story of an orphaned girl who goes to live with her wealthy Aunt Polly in a stuck-up town full of pomp. While there her cheerfulness and "glad" outlook touch everyone, and people start changing their attitudes and becoming more glad about life in general. Pollyanna brings sunshine into their lives.

However, something happens and now the townspeople need to show Pollyanna how much she has done for them and how much they love her. They all arrive at her house to make her realize that.

You see, Pollyanna was touching lives by simply living her own; she was going about her daily business and was unconsciously making a difference.

I recently watched this movie and realized that this applies to us. As Christians, we are called to be a light in the world and to let our lights shine before men. In John 15:19 Jesus says that we do not belong to the world but that he has chosen us out of it.

My point?

We should be making a difference in the lives of the people around us. And it should eventually become second-nature to us. There are ways we can purposely touch lives, such as taking food to a sick person, helping with a ministry at church, or spending time with a sibling. There are also ways we can unconsciously show Christ: having good attitudes(oh, a tough one!), being an encouragement, giving a smile.

Jesus should be seen in every aspect of our lives, wherever we are, whatever we're doing. If someone sees you having patience in a situation instead of getting upset, that's not the way they would usually see people respond; there must be something different about you!

Take some time to think about some areas where you need to change in order to show Christ in your life. Do you need to have better attitudes? Are there ways you can be more encouraging to others? Perhaps for you there are certain places that need to be worked on. For example, can you maintain a pretty good attitude at school or with friends, then once you get home all that goes down the drain and you're complaining, grumpy, and altogether sour?

Once you pinpoint something, make an effort to change it for the better. Take action and determine to make a difference in this area. As you continue to practice touching lives and cultivating some good habits, showing Christ and making differences becomes natural. That's exactly what should happen.

~Princess Gloria

A Spirit of Fear

2011-04-03T20:09:00.002-04:00

This is a great story that always helps me remeber that God is in control of everything and is watching over us.

~~~~~

Lately she had stopped running. She enjoyed jogging in her neighborhood but recent threats from neighborhood dogs that ran free had put a fear into her and so she had stopped running. She did not want her fear to change her life--her lifestyle--so she prayed, "Father, I know you are my Protector and you can keep me from all harm. Please take away this fear that has overtaken me and give me a peace that only You can give."

And then she stepped out on faith and feeling apprehension flooding over her, she ran--one mile, two. Suddenly, she heard the patter of feet behind her and turning, she saw a great white dog trotting toward her--not menacingly, but with what seemed like a purpose. As she continued to jog toward home, the dog kept pace with her and she began to relax. At one point, she passed by a house where the dog in the front yard began to bark and run along the boundaries of the underground invisible fence. As if to say, "Don't worry, I'm here," the dog at her side positioned himself between her and the threat. Two miles later, she was back at her door, the dog still at her side. As she entered the house, she realized that the apprehension she felt had been replaced by a peace. How good God is to provide as a means of protection and affirmation, the very thing she had feared.

How good indeed!

~~~~~

2 Timothy 1:7 says: God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment. (HCSB)

Princess Jade

Reunion?

2011-03-11T01:00:00.001-05:00

Kaylia caught herself from falling as she entered the far side of the arena, shaken by the look in Weaponry’s eyes. Why was he here? And how had she known he had been watching her where there had been two thousand other pairs of eyes staring at her? Before she could ponder it any more, Tayla ran (as much as her dress allowed) up to her.

“Oh Kaylia! You were wonderful! See, that wasn’t so bad, was it?”

“No...” Kaylia agreed hesitantly. “But I don’t like not knowing how I will do. It will seem like an eternity before the judges decide who will win.”

Tayla laughed “Oh come on; it won’t be that long. Sirianya- you know, the one for Princess Victory?- is going now. That means only Neena Rana is left, and she’s the last one. It won’t be that bad, you’ll see.”

Suddenly, a shout arose from the stadium. Both girls turned to see Explainer rushing towards the five judges.

“Your Graces,” he gasped, sucking in lungfuls of air, his body shaking with the effort.

“Calm down and start again.” Judge Fair said calmly, undisturbed by the messenger’s outburst. She knew if Explainer had interrupted, there must be a good reason for it.

Explainer managed to wheeze out his thanks before continuing. “I have news from the castle guard. Sir Equestrian, he’s-he’s back!”

Princess Catherine ~*~

The Storyseekers: Unseen Complications

2011-03-03T01:00:00.000-05:00

"Come on!" Cheydine said, glancing at the others as he swung into the tree above them.
"You aren't serious, are you?" Naomi asked, simply staring at him. "You want me to get all the way up there?"
"Unless you would rather get eaten." Dallian replied, following Cheydine. Jayrin did the same, and Naomi was left alone on the ground. As another scream split the air, she gasped.
"It's getting closer." Dallian said, giving Naomi an urgent look.
Seeing no other choice, Naomi reached for the branch above her and pulled herself up. This wasn't nearly as hard as it looked. Moving as carefully as she could, she ascended the next few branches until she had joined the others.
Jayrin smiled at her friend. "I knew you could do it."
"And just in time, too." Dallian said, pushing the leaves aside so he could see through. "Look!"
Naomi did, and immediately wished she hadn't.
The beast that emerged out of the forest to her right was the most terrifyingly hideous thing she had ever seen. It resembled a mountain lion, though it was much, much bigger. It was pure black, except for a single silver stripe that ran down its back from the top of its head to the tip of its tail. Everything about it gave off a sense of utter evil.
It screamed again, showing its dagger-like teeth and drawing its claws through the loose dirt.
"What in Estrellica is that?" Naomi gasped.
"Its an Alunsian." Dallian whispered. "I've never seen one this far down the mountain before."
"You've seen one before?" Naomi cried.
Dallian glared at her. "Is that serious question? Ever since Lucien set the Alunsians free in the mountains, not a year has gone by when someone in my village wasn't eaten by one."
"Is...is that what killed your parents?" Cheydine asked tentatively, obviously hoping that Dallian wouldn't explode.
He didn't, which was a surprise to everyone. "Yes." he whispered simply, averting his eyes. Naomi looked at Dallian, and then back at the Alunsian. She thought about her own parents, and realized how terrible it would be to have them killed by that monster. It made her feel as though she understood Dallian...at least a little.
"What are we going to do?" Jayrin asked finally, breaking the silence. "That thing is going to find us sooner or later."
Before anyone could replied, the Alunsian screamed and turned in their direction.
"I think he heard you, Jayrin." Cheydine whispered.
The beast took a step closer, growling and tossing its head.
"I've heard that it's almost impossible to kill one." Dallian said. "No one can get close enough."
"Do you have any better ideas?" Jayrin asked, starting to panic.
"I think it's possible to shoot one...but that's the only way."
Naomi took a deep breath and reached for the bow that hung down her back. "I could try."
"Are you sure?" Dallian asked, nervously eyeing the monster as it took a step closer.
"Well...I think so. I mean, I've never actually shot anything that moves, but..."
"You've never shot anything that moves?" Dallian interrupted, eyes flashing. "Then how can we trust you to do this?"
"I think she can do it." Jayrin said, in a softer tone. She turned and looked at Naomi. "I know you can."
"I...I'll try." Taking one arrow from her quiver, Naomi took careful aim and drew the bowstring back. Then she waited.
"Hurry up!" Cheydine said, voice rising as the Alunsian came still closer.
"Wait..." Naomi whispered.
"We don't have much time!" Jayrin gasped as the beast turned in their direction and crouched down.
"Wait..."
The Alunsian uttered a low growl from deep in its throat, eyes fixed unmoving on their position. It drew one paw through the earth, turning up the soil with razor-like claws. Even time seemed to stand still as the four Storyseekers stared into its glittering black eyes. It crouched lower, advancing forward ever so slightly.
"Naomi!" Even Dallian was starting to panic.
"Not yet..." Naomi said, paying attention to nothing but her aim.
In one moment, the Alunsian gave its loudest scream yet and lunged for the tree. Naomi let go at that exact instant, and her arrow stuck in the monster's side. It screeched in pain and anger, drawing back for one last leap.
Crashing through the branches around them, it seemed to be using every once of strength it had left.
Jayrin screamed as its cruel claws tore through her arm, knocking her backward into Cheydine. Both of them tumbled out of the tree, hitting the ground far below.
The Alunsian gave one last pitiful screech, falling backward to its death with Naomi's arrow still lodged in its side.
"Jayrin! Cheydine! Are you alright?" Naomi gasped as she and Dallian quickly descended.
Jayrin struggled to her knees, blood soaking through her sleeve. "I...I don't know."
"Let me see."

As Naomi knelt next to Jayrin, Dallian stood and looked around. Something didn't seem quite right, and it didn't take him long to figure out what. Dallian had seen Jayrin and Cheydine fall out of the that tree at the exact same moment. So if Jayrin was here...why wasn't Cheydine?
Dallian tried is hardest not to look worried as he rejoined Jayrin and Naomi. "Where is Cheydine?"
The girls followed his gaze, growing more concerned as they surveyed the deserted landscape.
"He was here just a minute ago." Jayrin said. "Wasn't he? Come to think of it, I haven't seen him since the second we fell out of that tree."
Naomi stood and helped Jayrin to her feet, looking slightly panicked. "Where else could he be?"
"I really don't know." Dallian replied. "It's been less than ten minutes since we last saw him."
"Look at this!"
Dallian and Naomi rushed to where Jayrin was standing, wondering what could have her so excited.
"Those are footprints." Naomi gasped.
"Exactly." Jayrin replied, "Footprints that obviously belong to someone much bigger than Cheydine. And look at the dirt beside them."
Dallian looked closer. "It looks to me like whoever made those footprits was dragging something with them."
"That's what I thought, too." Jayrin responded. "But the dirt here is so lose, the marks that the Alunsian's claws made have already dissapeared. For this path to still be here, they must have been dragging something unusually heavy. Something like a human."
Dallian stared at her. "What are you suggesting?"
"I'm suggesting that, while you two were climbing back down that tree and I was worrying about myself, someone jumped out of the forest over there and kidnapped Cheydine."
"But how?" Naomi asked. "They wouldn't have had enough time!"
"See how dark the forest gets just a few feet away from this spot?" Dallian asked, starting to understand what Jayrin was saying. "For someone to get Cheydine out of view before we noticed, they wouldn't have had to take him very far. After they were hidden, they could simply continue on their way with no fear of us finding them."
"Oh, this is terrible!" Naomi cried. "What in Estrellica are we going to do?"
To Dallian, everything about this journey seemd ten times more dangerous and complicated than it had before. If Lucien and his minions would do something like this...what else would they be willing to do?

The Treaty Contest, Category: Style (Part 3)

2011-03-02T02:00:00.002-05:00

A man seated himself in newly furbished red velvet chairs that were specially designed for the VIPs that attended The Treaty Contest. Wincing as he sank into his assigned chair, he sighed in gratitude, glad he finally had a chance to get off his feet. Thoroughly exhausted from the day’s events that had thrown themselves at him, he thought back to the archery practice match he had just been a part of. Even as a child he had never relished the chance to be in the spotlight. It drained him, and gave him headaches. Even the small group of spectators that had watched the practice had bugged him. Now he wished he had gone directly to his room as he had intended. He would have too, if not for Prince Flattery. Once again he had fallen for the silver-tongued prince who was known for wooing maidens with his charms and honey-coated words.

Come on Weaponry! The words of Flattery echoed in his head. It will be fun! We need a bit of rest and recuperation. We deserve it! You deserve it! Come on; be a good fellow and join me at the contest. There are some pretty ladies that I could introduce you to.

Sighing angrily at himself for sliding into the prince’s trap, Sir Weaponry glanced around for his “friend”. He knew what to expect, so when he didn’t see the prince’s golden curls shining in the sunlight, or hear his sweet voice in the breeze, he was not surprised. Once again, Flattery had left him hanging. So far, nothing exciting had happened. He had seen Hellga’s fancy model glide down the red carpet, and had heard the crowd’s cheers of approval. He had heard the women sigh jealously and had caught the whispers of the young men. If there was anything Sir Weaponry had learned from Prince Flattery, it was not to believe a cajoler’s words. And hadn’t he seen Lady Blushingeyes’ behavior? Beauty wasn’t everything; that at least he had learned. Folding his arms across his chest, he closed his eyes in boredom. He really should be resting, now sitting in between two goo-goo eyed young men who couldn’t take their eyes off the red carpet. A fly landed on his nose, and started crawling to his closed eyes. Opening them swiftly, Sir Weaponry swatted the pesky insect away from his face, and glanced down at the carpet. Suddenly, he understood why the two young men beside him were gawking. There, sailing majestically to the other side of the arena, was a woman whose beauty was almost divine. Her honey-gold locks of hair had been pinned up with bobby pins, and two curls danced on either side of her face. A golden tiara shimmered regally in her hair, swathing the sapphire jewel that was set in the crown. Even from the distance he was sitting, Weaponry could see the detail that was carved into the sapphire to give it the appearance of a blooming rose. The tight necklace resting at the young lady’s throat matched the jewel in her hair, and the earrings sparkled as if they were dancing. Her velvet slippers were silent on the carpet, causing a hush to come over the crowd. Sir Weaponry was by no means a fashion expert, but when he saw this model’s blue dress, he knew the seamstresses in town would be busy creating copies of the design. Its sleeves were like an upside down U with a wavy cut at the bottom, and the silk material it was made of was light in the soft wind, causing it to flitter playfully. The dress itself was a different material, somewhere between cotton and silk. It was a scoop neck, but not too low, and the waist was made of a different material than the top and bottom of the dress, giving a nice contrast. The skirt touched her ankles, carefully measured so it would not brush against the carpet or dirt. It was like most ballroom skirts, but was gathered so that when the girl twirled it spun around with her, making it one fluid motion. Other details in the dress were lost as Sir Weaponry gazed at the model’s face. Neither the rosy-pink lipstick nor the carefully chosen eye shadow caught his attention as much as the sapphire pools that made up the model’s eyes. As if sensing him watching her, the girl turned to look in his direction. Weaponry froze. The girl smiled, nodded, and continued walking. Still dazed, Weaponry took a deep breath to steady himself. Was that really the nameless girl he had saved? Was that gorgeous young woman really Kaylia?

The Treaty Contest, Category: Style (Part 2)

2011-02-27T21:17:00.003-05:00

Sweat drenched her palms and meandered down her neck. She stood shakily as she was called forward. Her velvet blue slippers were soundless on the throw rug beneath her feet. Reaching the end of the tunnel, she gracefully sat, the other five “models” sitting on either side of her. People lined the seats in the stadium, eager to see the lusciously gorgeous dresses and their owners. Their crowd’s cheering and clapping could be heard as the judges were introduced and seated one by one. Glancing back down at her lap for the millionth time, Kaylia saw the number written elegantly on the card. Number four. She was number four out of six. Now the introductions were done, and there was silence. Then, the first model was called out.

“Miss Ciara who represents Princess Shadownight, would you please come forth?”

Without any reaction, Ciara glided forward, her velvet black gown shimmering and giving the silver tiara in her thick, black hair a strangely pleasant mysterious look. The shawl around her thin, strong shoulders twinkled as the ruby-red threads of material woven into it were kissed by the sunlight. Then she was out of the shelter of the tunnel and walking on the red rug that showed the “runway” where they were to walk before the judges. The audience was awestruck for a second, but then wild howls of approval rang until the very air shook. Kaylia’s heart sank.

Will they do that for me? She thought, looking at the other models.

One young woman had auburn hair with gold intertwined. Even though it was just shoulder length, she had used it to her full advantage. Her hair was pulled back in a ponytail, with the back curled and the straight-ironed bangs tucked neatly behind her left ear. The small, white rose buds placed neatly in her hair were the perfect touch, and matched nicely with her snow colored dress. When she noticed the fawn colored eyes of the girl staring at her back, Kaylia blushed. The girl just. As Ciara sailed majestically in to the door on the other side of the arena that stood awaiting her, the young woman with auburn hair leaned towards Kaylia.

“I’m Tayla, but call me Tay. Most folk do. Where are you from?”

“Mudslide Village.” Kaylia whispered, turning to the talkative girl.

“I think we all are from villages of that sort. Have you noticed that all of us have “ah” at the end of our names?”
Kaylia nodded. In poor villages, all the girls had “ah” at the end of their names, and all the males had “lo” at the end of theirs. It was a tradition that bonded the poor citizens of those villages together. They could distinguish each other by their names. It was like a secret code, one that bound one poorer villager to the other when they were in need of help. But in truth, Kaylia hadn’t picked “Kaylia” as her name because of that. It was because that had been Sir Weaponry’s mother’s name.

Strange, she thought, staring at the note card bearing her name and number, even the rich have names ending with “ah” and “lo”. We are not so different. It is mostly the weight of our purses that separate us.

The announcement that Judge Enlightenment made next snapped Kaylia out of her memories.

“Miss Blimah who represents Lady Butterup, would you please come forth?”

Blimah walked forward, her heels clacking together and her long neck arched like a swan’s. Her dirty blonde hair was braided in a crown atop her head, with half of it left down and curled in ringlets. Her rosy pink dress looked wonderful with the puffy sleeves trimmed with lace, and the soft pink lilies nestled gently in the braid were in full bloom. Blimah’s veil trailed behind her, giving her appearance of a bride.

As she started walking back, Tayla laughed nervously.

“Guess I’m next. Elundarel bless, okay?” She arose from the chair, fixing her hair one last time.

“Elundarel bless.” Kaylia whispered in reply.

Tayla was proven correct with Enlightenment’s call.

“Miss Tayla who represents Princess Hellga, would you please come forth?”

If Blimah gave the appearance of a bride, Tayla was a bride. In fact, had Kaylia not known otherwise, she would have thought she was at Tayla’s wedding. Her new friend strode purposely down the red carpet, not a single flower falling from her regal head. Never once did she look nervous, and Kaylia prayed to Elundarel that she would do the same.

Please, Father. If not for me, for Lillian. You blessed me with her for a short time, and I wish to honor her last request. Please, assist me so I won’t fail.

At last Tayla reached the end of the carpet, and then disappeared like the others before her into the hole behind the open door.

Kaylia wiped her hands on her dress, and walked into the sunlight.

The Treaty Contest: Past

2011-02-16T15:46:00.004-05:00

Princess Ivy woke with cramps in her fingers. She would have laughed if someone had ever told her you could get cramps in your fingers, but now she knew better; you could. Groaning, she dragged herself out of bed, calling “Lillian, what time is it?”

No answer. Suddenly the unfamiliar pitter-patter of feet filled the room as Kaylia hurried in. Then it all crashed over I like a tsunami. Lillian was gone, for good. She fell back on the bed as tears sprang up in her eyes. She attempted to turn off the waterworks, but she could no better stop her tears as she could catch the wind and command it. Kaylia rushed to her side, bending down to lay her hands on her new mistress’s knees.

“I will never replace her, but I will help you.” She promised, whispering it as solemnly as any oath. Then she dug a fresh new handkerchief out of her brand-new maid’s clothes and handed it to Ivy. The princess sniffled, wiped her eyes, and smiled appreciatively at her friend. Then, trying to change the subject, she inquired a second time “What time is it?”

She got off the bed and walked over to her dresser.

Kaylia started making the bed with the utmost care, answering proudly “It is seven o’clock sharp. I was just about to wake you.”

Ivy turned around from her mirror, still brushing her long, brown hair. “Thank you. And the contest starts when again?”

“At nine sharp.” Kaylia answered promptly while fluffing a pillow before setting it back on the freshly made bed.

“Good. That should allow us enough time to get you ready. Are Stephanie, Tanyah, and Marina Ellen up yet?”

“Yes, miss. I’ve told them to go to the sewing room after they’ve finished breakfast. They should be there now.”

Princess I grinned. “You are an early bird, aren’t you?”

“Pardon?” Kaylia questioned, unsure of what Ivy meant.

“You’re an early bird; a person who likes to get up early. Personally, I’m a night owl. Go to bed late, get up late; that’s my schedule.”

Kaylia laughed “I suppose so, but since we didn’t have a lot of lights where I used to live, you could only stay out and work as long as there was sunlight. You learned to be an ‘early bird’, because that’s the only way you could get stuff done.”

Silence.

Then, “Miss, I think we should get you dressed. The sooner we get ready, the better.”
Ivy agreed without making a noise. She took in a shuddering breath as the memories flooded back. Lillian had been an early bird too.

Princess Catherine ~*~

The Treaty Contest: Style (Part 1)

2011-02-12T10:00:00.001-05:00

Phew! It's been a long time since I (Princess Catherine) have written The Treaty Contest. Hopefully I will change that! So...to recap....

Sir Valliento has gone off to save Sir Equestrian and Philippa, and allowed them to escape while he fought the thugs for them. Meanwhile, Sir Weaponry has rescued a nameless girl (who is now named Kaylia) and brought her back to the castle along with her brother. Also with them is an injured Lillian, who ultimately dies because of the poisoned darts. Now, the females are preparing for the Style portion of the contest, and the men (the "luckys" as Princess Victory says) are preparing for the archery part.

Princess Hellga, Princess Shadownight, Princess ForestHeart (Ivy), Lady Blushingeyes, and Lady Butterup are left on the female side, while Prince Fuego, Prince Flattery, Noble Handsome, Sir Valliento, Sir Equestrian, and Sir Weaponry remain on the guy side.

So, without further ado. Here is the next part of The Treaty Contest!

Kaylia had good taste. No, she had exquisite taste. That was apparent. She had just finished deciding which materials to use, what jewelry she wanted, and so on. Ivy held nothing back. The thought never entered her head. She watched fascinated as Kaylia glided around the room, so at home between the yards and yards of material.

“My mother used to be a seamstress.” She explained, touching the sky blue material she was using for her dress. It was silk, and shone when it rippled in the breeze.

Kaylia moved on to pick out material for a shawl, and the jewelry to match. Stephanie, one of the maids assisting Ivy and Kaylia, turned around, showing the shimmering, golden locket that she had just finished polishing. Tears welled up in Kaylia’s eyes as she saw the necklace her father had given her mother restored to its former glory.

“Thank you” Was all she could say. Tanyah, another maid who had been recruited for the Style part of the contest, hurried toward Kaylia, showing her a picture she had drawn on a sketch book. Even though Kaylia was only a few years younger than Ivy, she acted like a princess, and not one raised in poverty.

“Oh, Tanyah!” she gasped “How wonderful! That would work perfectly. I’m glad I have long hair, for that style is simply gorgeous!”

Tanyah was a new maid in the castle, and not used to being praised such. She blushed in delight, curtsying as she went to show Princess Ivy. Soon they had the patterns laid out for the dress, and the material to help them. Marina Ellen, about twenty four and the oldest woman helping the project, bent over her sewing, starting to shape the material into what would become Kaylia’s gown. With Ivy working on the shawl, Marina Ellen on the dress, Stephanie on the jewelry, and Tanyah experimenting on Kaylia’s hair, the work room continued peacefully. How strange the world is, that one place is peaceful, and in another, people could be fighting for their lives…

~*~*~*~

A groan escaped his lips as he was dragged to his feet by a large, strong man with rippling muscles and a club at his side. Valliento fought the urge to fight the man off, and waited to see what he would do.

“Give it ta me Keyren! I want me money!” He boomed, shoving Valliento into the side of the shack.

The breath whooshed out of him as he came into contact with the wooden planks. The man with the curved sword snickered in the corner.

“I don’t tink dat’s de boss, Aengus.”

“But I sawed him. He’s da boss, I knowed it.” Aengus blubbered, his face squinched up like a naughty child’s. He let his prisoner sink to the ground.

Valliento picked himself off the floor, dodging Aengus’s meaty fist as it tried to grab him.

Apparently they’ve been with Keyren more than two months. He thought, fingering the empty flask of Forget Me Not Cordial. If they had not been, they would not be able to remember Keyren at all.

“Where are we?” He asked, knowing there would be no answer.

“Duh…um…were is we Cale?” Aengus inquired, scratching his head instead of going after Valliento.

The cordial gives its victims slower reactions, but Valliento guessed that the cordial had just enhanced what Aengus lacked in intellect.

This will take a while. Valliento thought, laughing silently as the two men argued with each other as if he weren’t there.

“I don’t knows, but I bet Keyren was ups to some-ting. ’Ey, where’s he got to anyways?”

Cale had a point; Keyren was gone. A quick glance around the shack told the knight as much. Stepping in between the still bickering pair, he posed another question.

“What were you planning on doing?”

Cale, the smarter of the two, glared at Valliento. “Hows am I supposed to knows? Dat’s why wes came; to finds out what de boss wanted. He said ’ed pay us, but he’s ain’t ’ere, ya see?”

“So what month is it?” The knight questioned, watching the two men carefully.

“It’s de month of Seaepto, duh.” Cale scoffed, glancing at Valliento quizzically.

Valliento nodded his head in understanding.

The two men still think they are meeting Keyren two months ago. He realized. Obviously they’re wrong. “It’s not the month of Seaepto; it’s the beginning of Queytaren. Aegbess and Meysnon have passed.” He explained, showing them outside. “See? It’s too hot for Seaepto. And look, this is a letter written to me in Meysnon. My friend could not have written it in Meysnon if it was still Queytaren.”

“Buts…buts yesterday it was the seven and twentieth of Seaepto! I-I knows it!” Cale stuttered, stunned that he had just lost two months. “Hows could I forgets all dem days?”

Sir Valliento sighed. What should he say?

Maybe I should tell them that I gave them Forget Me Not Cordial because they were trying to kill me. He thought, not sure whether he was joking or really considering it.

He was spared an answer, but at a price; the interruption that followed was worse than any answer he could have said.

Valliento swung around, Aengus growled and charged, while Cale drew his sword. Both men headed for the figure in the doorway.

Devotional by David Jeremiah

2011-01-29T18:56:00.009-05:00

This post is in answer to a follower who asked me to share a devotional by David Jeremiah after reading a previous post, No One Like You ,which is based on his thoughts.--P.G.

Wednesday, January 19

Uniquely You

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them.
Romans 12:6a

No One Like You

2011-01-26T09:56:00.002-05:00

It's true. There is no other person in the world like you. No one else has your exact personality, shade of hair, color of eyes, and height all wrapped up in one the way you do. Everyone is different and unique.

I was recently reading a devotional by David Jeremiah that was talking about uniqueness and it mentioned how no snowflakes or fingerprints are alike. God specifically creates each one.

As I read, this phrase caught my attention:

"There has never been a person in history with the same combination of appearance, personality, natural talents, and spiritual gifts as you! And there never will be."

Reading this, I thought that since no one is, ever has been, or ever will be like us, only each one of us can make a particular difference to further God's kingdom. No one has done it yet, and no one will ever do it, because it waits especially for us.

Because we are all unique, we can't expect all our differences to be the same. Oh, yeah, I guess that's why they're called differences. Sometimes this is where the difficulties arise. We can easily see that girl who openly witnesses to others, or that person who can fly over the piano or play that guitar like nothing else, but when we don't have those accomplishments, it makes us feel inferior. In reality, those aren't things the Lord has determined for us to do. What would happen if no one cleaned the church bathrooms? Or if no one babysat the kids whose moms are in Bible study? What if everyone wanted to sing but there was no one working the tech to make the microphones and speakers work?

Every Christian's place and contribution to the the Kingdom is valuable. Though some are more visible than others, each one is special and important.

There is a difference somewhere that only you can make. What is it?

~Princess Gloria

Falling in Love, Part 4

2011-01-23T15:30:00.000-05:00

In this post I'm going to discuss the final two "tips" that I've discovered on my quest for loving Him more.

3. Go on a Date with Him

I wish I could have seen your face when you just read that! :) But, like before, I'm being honest to goodness serious.

I went to a Christian summer camp this past year, and one of the ladies talked about how a close friend of hers would always have her "dates" with Christ (I'll call her Amy). It wasn't easy. As the oldest, Amy had a lot of responsibilities. She lived in a small house with seven siblings (and when I say "small house" I mean small house), plus the daily chores were almost never ending. Still, she managed to sneak out into the only place where no one else would bother her: the outhouse (no, not a bathroom. An outhouse). It was smelly, leaky when raining, and cramped, but still it was important enough to her that Amy was willing to push aside the unpleasantness to go on her dates with her Prince. There she would just start talking to God, singing to Him, sharing her hopes and dreams with Him, and strengthening her relationship with Him. She would write Him letters, songs, and poems, or just caress flowers from the garden that He had "given" to her. How many of us would do the same? I pray God gives me that same urgent desire to be still and just enjoy His company. You don't have to go into your bathroom for it to be a "date", but just try and spend time with Him on a more personal level than "Hey God, how's it going?". His love for us is above that of any mortal, because He is immortal and omnipresent. He is love, He created love, and His love for us is so vast that even the oceans couldn't contain it!

Point of Grace, a singing group that I really enjoy listening to, captures this picture in a beautiful way. Their song "Love of Christ" describes the vastness and largeness of His adoration of us.

How long (how long)
How wide (how wide)
Is the love of Christ
How deep (how deep)
How high (how high)
Is the love of Christ

It would take ten thousand lifetimes
To comprehend, a love with no beginning
A love that knows no end

More than any heart could measure or ever hold
His love could fill the oceans
'Til they overflowed

Higher than the mountains
Deeper than the ocean
Farther than the reach of the sky
Wider than the heavens
Longer than forever
Greater is the love of Christ

So go on a date with your Prince. His schedule is very flexible! :)

4. Write Him Love Notes

When you're doing something for someone, it makes you closer to them. You've taken the time to prepare something for them, and you were probably thinking about them while preparing it. Writing Him songs, poems, letters, or little lines of random thoughts is a special and unique way to draw you closer to Him. Like I stated in my previous post (Falling in Love, Part 3), He has written you lots of love letters. Why not write Him some in return? It not only is spending time with Him, but it's spending time thinking about Him, and that is obeying His word (see Philippians 4:8)! :) It can be whatever you want, and it doesn't have to be literature. You could make Him a quilt, or paint a picture, or perhaps teach others about Him. Even if you don't write down your acts of service for Him, let your life be a living testimony of your growing adoration for your Prince Charming.

Hopefully these four tips will start you on one of the most amazing journeys of your life; it will definitely be the most rewarding!
If you seek after God by asking Him for the desire to fall in love with Him, He is more than willing- and able- to grant it. Also, if you read His love letters to you, it will give you a new appreciation and love for Him. It really is a mystery that He loves us! Go on a date with Him, and spend time with Him. Not only that, but since He has written love letters to you, write some back. However you want to will work. We're all "wired" different ways- He made us that way- so use what gifts He has given you.

For Him!

Princess Catherine ~*~

Falling in Love, Part 3

2011-01-20T15:30:00.010-05:00

I promised that in this post I'd share some ways that I've found to discover what has been described as the most amazing journey you can take. I've come up with four ways, and in this post I will share two with you. :) 1. Ask You want to take the first footsteps onto this path? Just ask God to show you the way to go. He's been waiting, and He is more than able, and willing, to help you. Pray for a desire to become closer to Him, and pray that you will let Him become your Prince Charming. He's waiting. Are you ready?

2. Read His Love Notes

He's written you a letter.

No, I'm being serious. In fact, He has written full books to you! What do you think the Bible is, if not a letter from God to man? It contains romantic stories in it though. Think of Ruth and Boaz (see story in the book of Ruth). And what about the whole book devoted to a bride and her groom, the Songs of Solomon?

But we need to be reminded. Humans are forgetful. Think about the Israelites in the Old Testament, and how they continuously asked God to save them, complained, and then fell back into sin. Or recall what your biology definitions were, word for word. What about that Scripture verse you memorized a year back, and haven't kept up with? I could go on and on, but you know what I mean. So we, as humans, need to be reminded of what is in His love letters to us. I've heard an acronym for the Bible that I really liked: Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. He's showing us through His word how to grow closer to Him, and how to have a walk that is deeper than our previous one. As Christians we should continuously grow (see 1 Corinthians 3). Think of it as the straight and narrow road. You're safer than on the broad and crooked, but the farther you walk along the straight and narrow, the better and better it becomes. Yes, you many still have trials, but you can face them with a new strength knowing He is your strength (Philippians 4:13). So read His love letter to you. It will plunge you on a new and exciting ride that brings you closer to Him, and more in love with your Prince of Peace. :)

For Him!

Princess Catherine ~*~

Falling in Love, Part 2

2011-01-18T18:21:00.021-05:00

I waited for You, today,
But You didn't show,
No, no, no...
I needed You, today,
So where did You go?
- "Never Alone" by Barlowgirl

You've waited. And waited. And waited. Still, you don't seem to find Him. You don't feel different, you don't act different, and you certainly don't look different (okay, maybe now you have a disappointed frown on your face). How can you try and get closer to God, when you can't see, touch, or physically hear Him? How can He become your True Love, if you don't ever experience Him in a real way?

I'm taking a Bible Study class in which we started discussing what you would do if you wanted to change someone. Would you...
a) Try to change their attitude first (feelings)
b) Try to change their behavior first (actions)

Pick one. Now think about it. Why did you chose that answer?

Okay, now that I've got you thinking (warm up exercise! :), I'll tell you which one has been proved more effective. If you picked b), you are correct. :) I know as humans we hope to change the attitude first, but if we get into a routine of behaviors (actions), the attitude will come along with it.

So why am I telling you this? It's the same thing with getting closer to God. We may feel despondent, hopeless, and sorta silly trying to fall in love with an invisible lover, but if we just try and wait for the right attitude, we may never accomplish anything. I mean, honestly, would you have done your math problems if you had to have the right attitude to do them? I doubt that biology paper would be written if your teacher had told you not to write it unless you had the positive attitude she was looking for. So first, we change our behaviors.

I will be the first one to tell you that I'm not perfect (okay, maybe my family will beat me too it ;). You have probably notice-d some: grammar, mistakes! in? (my posts") or seeen sum speling air-ers to. I haven't achieved my goal in falling in love with Him totally. I'm human, and I'm working on it. But after reading some wonderful Christian books by writers who have vastly more experience in this "subject" than I do, I've found a few "tips" that I think will help you change your behaviors- and hopefully your attitude- so that Jesus Christ isn't only your Best Friend Forever (literally :), but your Knight in Shining Armor and your Prince that gives you peace.

I'm signing out for now, but next post (I promise! :) I will have some "tips" for helping you change your behaviors towards Christ.

For Him!

Princess Catherine ~*~

P.S.

You know how I started this post with the lyrics of Barlowgirl's "Never Alone"? Well, it goes on to sing about how He will never, can never, leave or forsake us..because He loves us. He's holding up His end of the bargain (I mean, He died so that we could love Him!), now let's hold up ours.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8QubLxJI54

Falling in Love, Part 1

2011-01-14T22:08:00.015-05:00

All the TV shows, movies, stories, and even some music have a love story in them. Boy meets girl, or girl sees guy and...well, you know the rest. So when were in a society revolving around "love", and one that is always trying to get us into a relationship, it's hard to focus on the One who should be our true love: Christ Jesus.

Do you ever hear a song, and one of its lyrics just speaks volumes to you? Well, that's what happened to me (Catherine) when I was listening to the song "By Your Side" by Tenth Avenue North. Verse 2 starts off with these lyrics:

Why are you looking for love?
Why are you searching, as if I'm not enough?
To where will you go, child?
To where will you run?
(to hear the whole song, click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J95rAr0gOFU )

Those two lines especially struck me. Why are we always looking for love? Why do people, no matter if they believe in Christ Jesus as their Lord and Savior or not, always have that burning desire to be cherished and adored?
The answer is simply that Christ gave that feeling to us so that we would look for Him. He knows that the world can't satisfy that want for love, because He made it so that only He could fill that hole. That's why the culture is constantly trying to get you into a relationship or go the next step. It's trying to fit the wrong puzzle piece in the hole that only God can fill. You may think you're close to filling it up, but it will never fully be complete.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying it's wrong to love, or that we should only love God, and shun everyone else. That's not at all what I'm getting at. You see, God made the Church as a body, not as a single-cell. We were designed to work together as a community. What I am trying to say though is that God should be our first love. We must strive after Him constantly, because He is the only unblemished picture of what true love really is (see 1 John 4:7-8). He created love, and He created us. How can we even begin to honestly love someone, if we don't even know what genuine love looks like? It would be like trying to make just one puzzle in a whole bin with other mixed puzzle pieces without the box-top: no matter how hard you tried, it would never come out how the creator of the puzzle wanted it to look like.

So to find what real love is like, we must go to the Creator: Jesus Christ. But how can we start our journey to loving Him? You can't send Him cards, or talk to Him, or go out on a "date" with Him. Or can you?

In the second part of this post, I hope to show you some ways that will hopefully start pointing you in the direction.

Blessings,

Princess Catherine ~*~

The Extra Mile

2011-01-04T12:39:00.006-05:00

I had a lot of New Year's Resolutions this year. Some are the usual ones that I make every January 1, like reading my Bible everyday and becoming a better steward of my health and time. But this time, I decided to add a special one: every month, I would focus on doing something that would benefit others.

For January, I decided I would try to 'go the extra mile', especially with my chores. I suspect that there have been times when my family feels that I try to find the way I can help the least. I do what I'm asked, but I don't do it as best as I can and I definitely don't do anything else!

What better year to change that than 2011? I figured, to keep myself accountable, that I would post my goal on this blog. That way, I have to do it. =)

Going the extra mile is...

1. Doing more than what you had to do.
2. Doing your extra tasks knowing that you might not get a reward, or even get noticed, but you do your best anyway.

Going the extra mile is not...

1. Avoiding the task you were asked to do in the first place by doing something else. Remember, 'obedience is better than sacrifice'.
2. Doing anything extra because you want to be thanked or given a reward.

I could use some company going the extra mile. Care to join me? =)

In Christ,

Princess Izori

The Storyseekers Part Nine: Trouble

2010-12-23T17:46:00.009-05:00

"Are you sure you can do this?" General Sebell looked skeptical, but Commander Kylin seemed completely confident in his abilities.
"I'm sure I can, General."
Sebell nodded slowly. "Alright...but be careful. Lucien expects us back at camp in one week, and I can't afford to lose any men before then. Understand?"
The commander looked slightly unsure suddenly. "Um...of course. We will not fail."
Sebell's eyes narrowed into slits. "You had better not."

"What is our plan...um...precisely?"
Commander Kylin rolled his eyes. "Your job is to obey, not to ask questions."
The young warrior looked down. "Yes, Sir."
The commander looked pleased. "Good. Then we have work to do."
Kylin leaned toward the warriors surrounding him and spoke in a low tone. Finally one of the men looked up in shock.
"We aren't really going to do that, are we?"
Commander Kylin's eyes flashed. "Don't you realize what could happen to us if we fail? The general is counting on us. If this is the way we have to do it, then this is the way we have to do it."
"Whatever you say, Sir."

Looking out at the vast Estrellican countryside, Jayrin wasn't sure whether she should be excited or afraid. As the east gate of Stellin closed behind her, she tried to ignore her sudden urge to run back.
"Do you think we can do this?" Naomi asked, voicing Jayrin's own thoughts.
"Of course we can." Cheydine replied, optimistic as always. "I know it."
Dallian just rolled his eyes. "I guess we'll see, won't we?"

Three days later, Jayrin was beginning to feel better. After all, this hadn't been hard at all so far. Going over Melodica's directions word for word in her mind, she guessed that they weren't very far at all from the village they were trying to reach. Once they got there, they would be one step closer to finding the Story of Shaddi. They were so close already!
As soon as Jayrin glanced toward her companions, however, all of her excitement disappeared immediately. It wasn't Naomi and Cheydine she noticed, it was Dallian. Usually, he would be trying to make Jayrin angry by now...but he wasn't. In fact, he was being uncharacteristically silent.
"Dallian, are you alright?" Jayrin asked, not expecting to get much of an answer.
"I'm fine, I just thought I heard something for a minute."
Naomi looked confused. "Heard something like what?"
Before Dallian could answer, a terrible sound pierced the air to Jayrin's right. It was an unearthly cry, unlike anything she had ever heard before. It was unmistakeably evil.
Naomi gasped, but Dallian just looked as if he had expected it.
"That's what I mean." he whispered.
"What was it?" Cheydine asked, fear in his voice.
Dallian just shook his head. "We have to get out of here. Now."
Jayrin had never seen him look so serious...or so afraid.

The Storyseekers Part 8: Lady Isebelle

2010-12-20T13:24:00.002-05:00

Naomi wasn't sure why she was in here, but she had a strange suspicion that she shouldn't be. Walking over to the open window, she tried to guess how high up she was. She shivered as a cold breeze blew past her. That winding tower staircase had led much higher than she had thought. Exploring the palace was one thing, being all the way at the top of the north tower was quite another. Still looking out the window, Naomi could see the point where the city of Stellin ended. Beyond that, there was a long stretch of empty wasteland to the north, and where that ended, she could barely make out a thin black line far away on the horizon. But if that was Lucien's camp as Melodica said, it wasn't nearly far enought away. It would take take barely a month for an army of that size to reach the city. Naomi shivered again, but not from cold.

Confused as she was as to why she had entered this room, Naomi was even more puzzled as to why she stayed. Studying the intricate carvings on the bedposts, tracing the curling designs on the silk bedspread, and taking in every detail she could about the place, she couldn't bring herself to leave. There was something so mysterious about this abandoned bedroom, something lonely, almost sad. Naomi wasn't sure who had once lived here, so far removed from the rest of the castle, but she was convinced that someone had

She was so engrossed in searching for clues, she jumped in surprise at a loud screech from outside. A falcon swooped down from the sky and landed on the window sill. It was Keiree.

"What is it?" Naomi asked, never once wondering why she was talking to a bird. The falcon simply watched her with its glowing yellow eyes for a long time, before spreading it's wings and soaring into the room. Naomi followed it with her eyes until it perched on the edge of a gold-gilded picture frame, again turning towards her.

Naomi brushed the frame with the tips of her fingers, watching as a thick layer of dust fell to the floor. It was obvious that no one had been in this room in a long, long time. Keiree screeched, still watching her closely.

The painting was a portrait of a black-haired girl some years older than Naomi. Her clothes were like those the Estrellican nobility wore. What Naomi noticed most about her, however, were her strage grey eyes. They seemed to be almost...alive. Removing the picture frame from the wall, searching for something written on the back. There was nothing.

With a sigh, Naomi was just lifting the painting to put it back on the wall when she heard a voice behind her.

"What are you doing here?"

Naomi jumped, dropping the portrait with a crash. Princess Melodica rushed forward, carefully placing the picture on the bed as she checked to make sure it wasn't damaged.

"Oh, I'm so sorry!" Naomi gasped, kneeling to pick up the shards of broken glass.

"It's alright, Naomi. You couldn't have known..."

"Known what?"

When the princess didn't answer, Naomi decided to let the subject drop. Instead, she asked another question. "Whose room is this, Your Highness?"

"It belonged to her." Melodica pointed at the picture of the girl. "Lady Isebelle."

That didn't help Naomi at all. "Who is Lady Isebelle?"

"She is...or was...my friend, nearly three years ago." Melodica looked as if it wasn't something she wanted to remember. Still, Naomi was curious.

"What happened to her?"

"She dissapeared.One day she was here, and the next she was just...gone."

Naomi tried to comprehend all this. She decided not to ask Melodica anything else, though she determined to find out the rest of this story.

The Day that Christmas Really Began

2010-12-19T15:55:00.006-05:00

It was as if two different worlds stood in that room. Satan, with his cold, dark appearance, was the complete opposite of God's Son, who was surrounded in a shroud of light. Jesus had come with one request for the evil being before Him, though He knew it would come at a great cost to Himself.
Jesus began the conversation with one question. "Would you give Me humanity, Satan?"
Satan laughed cruelly. "Humanity? Why ever would You want them? They are murders, criminals, and idolaters. Their hearts are completely sold out to me. They don't want to return to You. Besides, they chose me over You in the Garden of Eden. Remember?"
"All that matters little to Me." Jesus replied calmly. "I created them in My image, and I love them."
"How could anyone love them?"
"What do you want for them, Satan?"
"Why should I give them to You?"
"What do you want for them, Satan?"
"They hate You. Just leave them alone."
"What do you want for them, Satan?"
"Wait. What do You get out of this?"
Jesus sighed. "I get nothing. In fact, you're right, they have rejected me. Still, I want them. Still, I would give anything for them. Even when they don't love Me, I still love them."
Satan rolled his eyes. "Alright, but I will take only one price. The highest price You can pay."
"Name it."
Satan sneered. "I want Your sweat, Your tears, and Your blood. I'll take You in exchange for all mankind."
There was a moment of silence as the King of Heaven stared into Satan's face, tears glistening in His eyes.
"Agreed."

Christmas Blessings,

Letting Him Hold the Door...

2010-12-15T13:45:00.006-05:00

...even though you can.

Most of us don't have trouble opening doors by ourselves. You probably have never had to ask someone to help you open the library door, or help you heave that post office deposit box open. We can carry our things to the car by ourselves (even if we do have to make numerous trips), or lift our luggage without assistance. We girls have muscles, but if we don't let guys help us open doors for us, or carry our things, they loose something vital about being a gentlemen: practice.

As sisters in Christ, we are to allow guys to practice being gentlemen on us. Yes, sometimes it can be frustrating letting him hold that door for you, or taking the luggage you were going to help your relative with, but it's necessary for guys not only to feel helpful, but get used to becoming a blessing without constantly being told what to do. One time I wasn't feeling well, and I needed help getting things for my cold (blankets, juice, and such). I could have gotten up and taken the things myself, or I could ask my brother to help me. Taking the latter option, I allowed him to be a servant, and he helped me. You may laugh, or be skeptical, but it really is important for us to step aside and allow someone else to help us.

In our culture, we are constantly being told that the less you need people to help you, the stronger you are. Independence from anyone or anything is smiled upon, while anyone who asks for a hand is scorned or thought weak. Sadly, this is not how God created humans to be. We are to be the Body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:12 and Eph. 4:12), and that means we are to work together, and rely upon one another. We are supposed to have each other's backs.

So even though you're capable of heaving that sliding glass door open, allow a brother in Christ to do it for you. Wouldn't you want your future husband to have the same practice? :)

Blessings,

Getting into the Thankful Mood

2010-11-22T07:21:00.001-05:00

One of the most sure ways I get into the Holiday spirit is to write a list of things I'm thankful for. Family and friends are big ones, along with Christ coming to earth and dying for us, but this year I challenge you to take the time and think about the smaller things, like hot water or clouds, and thank God for them.

Here are some things I'm thankful for and why:

1. Shadows
I know it's not summer anymore, but boy was I glad to have shadows on those hot July and August days! The shade is somewhere cool and inviting, a place of rest. I'm thankful that God gave us the shade. He didn't have to.

2. Music
Just like shadows, He didn't have to make music. But could you imagine a world without it? The birds wouldn't sing, the crickets would thrum with their little legs, and the frogs wouldn't croak to their tunes. Lions wouldn't roar, wolves wouldn't howl, and bees wouldn't buzz. Because everything that God made sings praises to Him, without music there would be no sound! Not only did He make sound, but unlike the bees and birds, He also made it possible for us to make our own tunes! Each one of us can make up our own songs as praises to Him!

3. We (humans) can smile
I'm so glad that we have a chance to express our happiness in a way that others can see. Just like it brings joy to see a dog thumping its tail, I am blessed whenever I see someone else grinning from ear to ear.
"You're never fully dressed without a smile." - Harry Connick Jr.

4. We can communicate
Not only can I say the word "apple" and you know what I'm talking about, but there is a letter system that allows me to write the letters "a-p-p-l-e", and you know what I'm referring to. And get this: we can also communicate with God! No matter what language you speak, you have the ability to speak to Him if you know His Son personally!

5. Memories
Aren't you glad that you can remember your own name? Or what about that homework that you suddenly remembered one day? Could you imagine studying for a test without being able to remember what your studying for, let alone successfully studying for it? Aren't we blessed that even when we can't see someone face to face all the time, the next time we see them we can remember them? I sure am!

So go on: make your own list! It doesn't have to be long, or fancy. You don't even have to write down your reasons. But take the time- even if it's mentally doing a list- to be thankful. You will be surprised, and left feeling refreshed and grateful! :)

Blessings,

Thanksgiving, Then Christmas

2010-11-20T19:01:00.005-05:00

I'm sure all of you know that Thanksgiving comes before Christmas, right? But have you ever noticed that? I mean, have you ever thought about it?

I know they were both set on their appointed dates for important reasons, but have you ever taken into account that Thanksgiving is before Christmas? I'm sure it's more than a ploy to try and tempt children out of their numerous Christmas list items. But as soon as I saw this from a new perspective, I started wondering if it had any significance.

Christmas is after Thanksgiving, but shouldn't it be the other way around? I mean, Christ came down to earth, making it the first ever Christmas day! That's a good reason to be thankful!
Perhaps so, but I think of something else as I ponder this food for thought. What if we are supposed to be thankful before Christ comes? What if we are to thank Him before His blessings, and trust Him to follow through with them? What if we are to give thanks, and have a heart of gratitude without knowing for sure we are going to be rewarded? It's easy to be thankful during Thanksgiving and Christmas (presents, family, and food are in abundance), but what about the rest of the time? And what about the time in between? I think Thanksgiving is a gentle reminder that starts off the holiday season, reminding those to be grateful for what Christ did for us. It points us in the right direction, reminding us that He didn't have to save us. And those days in between Christmas and Thanksgiving should be a time of heart preparation for the greatest blessing of all: Jesus Christ.

So as you get ready for Thanksgiving this week (and enjoy a couple days off from school!), take the time to be truly thankful, and ask God to give you a thankful spirit throughout the year.

Thanks for reading. :)

Princess Catherine ~*~

Christ-Esteem

2010-10-27T17:03:00.011-04:00

The snow is lightly falling, glittering lights in every window, Christmas songs playing in every store...

I LOVE Christmas shopping (in case you couldn't tell!).

It seems, however, that before I can even think about Christmas shopping (like, in August, for example), stores are already sending out magazine after magazine through the mail, and more advertising e-mails than I can possibly handle. In s0me ways this makes Christmas shopping easier later on, because I already have a pretty good idea of what to get everyone. In other ways though, it can be annoying.

One of the things I like least about advertisements is the extent they go to to get us to buy whatever they're selling. Who hasn't seen ads with phrases such as:

"You deserve it."
"You NEED this."
"This could change your life."

The problem with all of these statements is the focus: SELF. I don't think I've ever seen an advertisement that supported contentment, giving, or being happy with who you are, where you are, and what you have. If you were content with what you had, after all, you wouldn't be buying their product.

The sad thing is that in our culture, many people do think predominately about themselves. This selfish mindset can produce all kinds of tragic consequences in people's lives. Our society desperately needs to find the cure for selfishness so we can turn our focus back toward God and other.

So what IS the cure for selfishness?

Many people will tell you it has to do with believing in YOURSELF and having SELF-esteem. In fact, these ideas are quite popular among people trying to escape the our current selfish society. But do you see the problem with these two phrases?

The problem, again, is SELF. Though popular, the core focus in this belief is still SELF.

The only true answer to a confidence issue is to stop focusing on yourself and begin focusing totally on Jesus Christ. When we find our worth in Him alone, everything else fades into the background. Thoughts about how we look and what others think of us will fade out of the picture, until all we are truly care about is learning to serve Christ better. He created us to shine as a living example of His glory, drawing other believers and unbelievers closer to Him. Suddenly, what we look like is no longer the first thing people notice about us. They will see Christ's light shining so bright in us, that nothing really matters. When we stop obsessing about ourselves and allow Christ to take complete control of our lives, we become a reflection of Him. As Princess Gloria said in an earlier post, we become like a mountain lake that reflects His glory. He is so much bigger than us, he takes up all of us so that noting else can even be seen. One of my favorite verses is something Paul says in Galatians 2:20, "For it is not longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." I would love for that to be a description of my life.

Wouldn't you?

Blessings in Christ,

Hope Chests for Your Husbands

2010-10-16T05:00:00.001-04:00

If you recall how Princess Izori talked about these keepsakes in her post Hope Chests . In this post I am going give you some tips about what you can put in a special Hope Chest for your future husband.

First let's start with what are some of the things you have in your Hope Chest. Birthday cards? Encouraging Scriptures or uplifting poems? Pictures or notes? Maybe a precious Bible from when you were born.

You can take some of those things (not those exact things, but the same concept) and put them in the Hope Chest for your future husband. For example, instead of birthday cards to you, write letters to your husband. Put pictures of you as mementos you can later show him. Maybe a list of prayer requests you've had for him over the years. Any poems or stories you write to him or about him work too! Your favorite Scripture verses (yes, that's Scripture verses :) can be kept safely in the Hope Chest as well. If they are hand written, they will be even more special to him! Maybe you want to give him a picture you've painted, or a craft you've made for him. A Bible you've kept to give to him could go in there as well. :) Anything you wish. Maybe you want some recipes that he might like in there, or a special music box that plays a calming tune. Again, you can put whatever you want to give to him in there!

Hope Chests are just gifts that let you treasure your future spouse even more. It will be an encouragement each time you place an object in that chest, reminding you that you are waiting for only him. One thing I would like to say though; I wouldn't give away things in your Hope Chest for your future husband until he becomes your husband. Why? Because you are giving little pieces away to another person that you had planned only for your knight. Waiting to give all the gifts for him will make each one more treasured, just like your purity.

Blessings,

Poem on God's Power vs. Our Weakness

2010-10-12T12:52:00.003-04:00

(c) Izori

What few years have we
On our road to decay?
Fine petals have we,
Gone tomorrow, here today.
Our colors are temporary
For it is humans' way.

What awe inspires He
As our own breath flies away?
The Master of eternity,
Beginning, here to stay.
One hand rests on me, the other lights the day.
That is God's way.

In Christ,

Princess Izori

The Fruits of Favoritism

2010-10-05T20:06:00.009-04:00

Have you ever been with a group of people, and two of them in particular were very good friends with one another? Half the time, they're laughing about inside jokes that only they 'get'. Maybe they'll gradually exclude the other people in the group from their conversation, or go off somewhere else. However, those two people would be shocked if you told them that they were being exclusive!

You probably remember how you felt--unhappy, lonely, and dis-valued. But are you a culprit of exclusiveness too?

Before I go on, I'll say that this applies to siblings. However, if you have one or no siblings, you can also apply this to friends, or even parents.

Favoritism is a form of exclusiveness. Among siblings it's a common thing. Usually one of the children (in the case of our family...*guilty face*...it's the oldest) will show more attachment to one sibling and not the other. It's easy, too. They might be the closest in age, are interested in the same things, or do much of the same activities.

It gets to a point where they have almost a line of communication that only they can access--a little sign with the hand, a look, a nod of the head, etc. Eventually, the two will start showing favors to one another by maybe turning the other way when something is wrong, or automatically blaming the sibling they don't favor in fights.

Of course, the two think they're doing great because they're getting along with a sibling...or that is, one of them.

In reality, they're hurting their other siblings and causing strife. Jealously, bitterness, and detachment are the fruits of favoritism. Just look at the story of Joseph.

His father favored Joseph more than his brothers, and for that he got sold to Egypt. Of course, God was working in this for good, but that's no excuse. Yes, God can produce good out of our evil, but that doesn't mean we should do it. The nation of Egypt was saved from devastating starvation, but Jacob suffered for years with a family torn apart by the fruits of favoritism.

It's really easy to overlook favoritism if you're doing it yourself (realize that this is the voice of bitter experience...). Here's a few hints to look for:

1. You find yourself automatically siding with one sibling and against the other in a fight, even if you have a nagging feeling that it's unfair.

2. You spend more time with one sibling than another.

3. Your tone of voice towards one sibling is mostly gentle, but you find yourself speaking toward another judgmentally.

4. You get angry when your parents 'excuse' bad behavior with one sibling (although you feel like they're being merciful and loving when they do the same to another)

5. You and one sibling tend to 'gang up' on another sibling during disputes.

I've said that I am speaking from my own experience. Yes, it's true. I'm coming to realize more and more that one sibling in particular is excluded from what another sibling and I do. One reason is that the sibling I favor is more my age, and we tend to like the same movies and do many activities together. The sibling I don't favor is a lot different from me, and our ages are further apart. The warning hints that I listed above are the ones that I found when I searched my actions.

Now, here are some helping tips:

1. First off, don't stop favoring the sibling you were. If you just shift your favor to another sibling, then you still have the same problem. Favor your brothers and sisters, but favor them equally!

2. Find a special time you can spend with your unfavored sibling. Once again, continue to spend time with the sibling you favor, but try to equally include your other sibling. Have a tea party with both of them, or set up a little Bible study. Help them gain a skill, or gently encourage them in their schoolwork.

3. Always look at both sides of an argument between your two siblings. Support the side that is right, not the side of the person that you show more favors to.

4. The 'both sides' hint goes for when your parents deal with the siblings.

5. Don't gang up on either sibling. If you and one sibling have a secret communication system, why don't you include your other sibling in it, or give them a wink or a nod from time to time too.

Favoritism can tear a family apart. It happened to Joseph's family. Don't let it happen to yours.

In Christ,

Princess Izori

Reflection

2010-10-03T15:01:00.003-04:00

Picture with me, if you will, a beautiful, breath-taking mountain. It stretches high into the sky and is the most beautiful thing you could ever see! Its color is a glorious and clear blue, and the top sparkles in the sunlight.

Down below, at the foot of the mountain, there is a lake. It has been put in that particular spot for a reason: to reflect the mountain and its splendor. However, the lake is more like a swamp, with brown grasses and bare trees growing in it. The water is murky and dirty, and the bit that can be seen through the plant overgrowth has no way of reflecting anything. How can the lake fulfill its purpose? If only there was some way to remove the ugliness from it!

So it is with us and God.

God is like the beautiful mountain. His majesty and wonder are indescribable! He is so glorious and strong.

We are like the lake, meant to reflect His beauty and glory. This, though, is impossible for us to do on our own. We are full of sin, which dirties the water and produces tangled vines and tough grasses. There is no way that Jesus can be reflected in us.

But God, Who is rich in mercy, gives us the opportunity to be redeemed, to accept Him into our hearts and lives. Once we do that, He starts the long process of cutting away the debris and clearing out the water. Bit by bit, we lose our life-dominating sin a little at a time: disobedience, rebellion, mean words, ugly and improper thoughts, evil desires, lusts, jealousy, pride, selfishness, discontentment, and the list continues.

If we let Him, we will, little by little, begin to reflect Him, drawing more attention to our King than ourselves. As He clears the lake, it looks more like the mountain than a lake because the mountain is bigger than the lake and its reflection fills the entire area of water.

Becoming a beautiful, reflecting lake is a lifelong process. The Lord knows the amount of sin that we have in our lives and, in His compassion, deals with that sin little by little, one at a time. But we have to be willing to allow God to deal with us.

That doesn't mean that we will never return to a sin once it has been conquered through Christ. However, because we can approach the Throne of Grace with confidence we can be forgiven of the sin and given the ability to move on.

Is there something that Jesus might be pruning from your life right now? Something that you won't allow Him access to deal with? You can only be transformed into a beautiful lake, a radiant reflection of His glory, if you let Him be in control.

~Princess Gloria

Verses from Romans

2010-09-14T18:13:00.003-04:00

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~Romans 8:37-39

I thought I would share these beautiful verses with you all. Romans is such a great book!

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? ~Romans 8:31

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! ~Romans 11:33

And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. ~Romans 16:20

In Christ,

Princess Izori

The Treaty Contest: Winds of Sorrow

2010-09-03T06:01:00.002-04:00

His arms felt like they were on fire, and his legs were exhausted from all the running, ducking, dodging, and kicking they had been forced to endure in the last few hours. Sir Valliento leaned against the doorframe of the shack, gasping for breath and sucking in mouthfuls of air. His three enemies lay slumped against the hut’s walls, all sleeping peacefully with bellies full of Forget Me Not Cordial. He had given them each enough to wipe away their memories of the last two months. He couldn’t take any chances. They would sleep for at least another eight hours, and that would give him enough time to rest and get on his way. Fireflies lit up and vanished into the darkness, and the moon hid her face behind a fog-like cloud. Frogs bellowed and crickets chirped, signaling the arrival of night. Valliento sank to the floor, thoroughly fatigued. Thoughts filled his head as he stared into the tenebrosity of night. Had Equestrian and Philippa escaped? Was Philippa alright? How was he to get back to the castle? Why-

He slumped against the wall, sleep enveloping him like a cloak. One day remained before the Archery Contest…

The hours ticked by. Soon it was one in the morning. To pass the time and to get her out of the kitchen, Sir Weaponry started talking to the nameless teenage girl whose world had been shaken dramatically in the last day. He told her about his country, Arfwapen, and about the other contestants in The Treaty Contest. He explained the categories they went through already, and which ones he was hoping to participate in.

“It’s not about winning the contest, it’s about learning something in the process, and the treaties that occur because of it.” He said confidently.
“But why are treaties so important?” She asked, stroking her brother fondly. He giggled as he finished munching on a freshly baked lemon cookie, powdered sugar caking the corners of his mouth. Sir Weaponry turned, wiping of the little boy’s face with a nearby towel.

“The Treaty Contest was founded was because twenty years ago, two warring countries devastated each other. No one remembers what they were fighting over; they were just fighting. Neither of the countries is left. So, to stop that from happening again, the elders of 20 countries agreed on starting The Treaty Contest. Wars have stopped, peace has been made, and mending has started, all because of The Treaty Contest. It also encourages other countries to sign treaties. It’s like a silent ambassador, begging peace over war. And now you get to be a part of it.”
“I know,” the girl said, blushing as her little brother hopped of her lap and ran towards the pan of cookies. “Lillian explained what I was supposed to do. Do you think--Salviatus! Stop that at once!” She rushed over to the little boy, grabbing his hand before he could touch the hot tray of steaming cookies.

“Salviatus?” Sir Weaponry questioned, looking quizzically at his friend. “Is that his name? I thought he didn’t have one.”

Her cheeks turned so crimson it made the cherries on the counter pale in comparison. “I…he…” She took a breath and started over. “You see, I couldn’t call him his name in public; if I did I would be punished.” She shuddered as she said the word. “So I called him his name in secret. I didn’t tell you or Lillian because I didn’t know if you were one of those people who punished us.”

“So do you have a name?” He asked, hope shining through his voice.
She shook her head. “No. I have no name; that is the truth. Ambika died when I was eight, and I’ve been raised since then without one.” She shrugged “You get used to it after a while.”

Sir Weaponry bent over and picked a cookie from the tray “Well, now that you’re in The Treaty Contest, you must have a name. Hmm…let me think. What about Dagger or Arrow? No? Perhaps Bertilde? Maybe Alvara? Yeah, you’re right. You don’t look like an Alvara. Not that that’s a bad thing…” he paused, trying to save himself further embarrassment.

“Do you have a sister?” She asked abruptly, interrupting Weaponry’s train of thought.

“No. Why do you ask?”

“What is your mother’s name?”

“My mother died when I was nine.”

“Oh. I’m so sorry.”

A pause followed.

Then, “But you didn’t answer my question. Why do you want to know what my mother’s name was?”

“Please, won’t you just tell me?”
Weaponry sighed a sigh full of memory “Marina Kaylia de Calligenia. She was-”

“Kaylia…”

“I’m sorry, what was that you said?” He asked, caught for a second in the webs of the past.

“Kaylia. I like that name, don’t you?”

Before he could answer, she inquired again, “Do I ‘look’ like a Kaylia?”

Weaponry turned, his dark brown eyes studying her closely “Yes. You do. My mother had black hair, like me, but the look in her eyes was the same as yours. And they were blue like yours. Yes, you look like a Kaylia if anyone does.”

"Then it shall be mine. My very own."

"Like I said, you look the part." He affirmed, grinning.

The newly named Kaylia flushed, pleased at the compliment paid to her. Then she beamed, a smile that lit up her face, bringing joy into those pleasant blue eyes. “I have a name all to myself. A name that people can call me by and I can be identified by. Kaylia…oh! How wonderful!” She clapped her hands together in excitement, frightening Salviatus slightly.

“Sissy? What’s wrong?” He questioned, his big, orb-like blue eyes peering up at her.

“I have a name!” She exclaimed “I’m Kaylia! It’s my very own, and I will treasure it. It is something I may be called, and whispered, and yelled. Kaylia; I am Kaylia!”

Her little brother jumped into her lap, not fully understanding, but trying. “You have a name like me?”
“Yes, Salviatus. From now on you must call me Kaylia if you wish for me to answer.”

“There. Now, let’s go tell-”

“Weaponry! Come here, now!”

Princess Ivy’s voice was filled with horror. Sir Weaponry and Kaylia dashed into the kitchen, questions burning in their eyes.

“I can’t get her to wake up!” She cried, shaking.

The doctor standing next to Lillian looked at Weaponry sadly, and Weaponry knew.
He sighed.

Why must I always play this role? He thought in agony. Why am I always the bearer of the bad news?

Stepping forward, he laid his strong hand on Ivy’s shoulder, just in case she fainted at the news.

“She’s gone.”

Kaylia stumbled, grabbed onto Lillian, and started sobbing brokenly, breathing only one word over and over “Why?”

Ivy stared numbly at her dear friend that now slept in the sleep she would never awaken from.

“Elundarel bless her.” She whispered as the doctor laid a sheet across Lillian’s still form.

“I’m sorry miss, but today is the last day before the Style contest commences. You must start working on this young lady’s dress.” He said, pointing to the crying Kaylia.

“Her name’s Kaylia.” Weaponry said.

What there a slight menace in his voice?

Princess ForestHeart sighed. She knew the doctor was right. Lillian had told her right before she had left the castle that if anything were to happen to her, Ivy should go on with the contest. Ivy had laughed at the idea then, and had promised to continue, never imagining that her beloved maid would never come back, alive. Now she bitterly regretted that promise, but knew if she broke her word, she would fail Lillian in her final request to her. Taking a step forward, she helped Kaylia up by the hand, and turned her around to face her.

“Kaylia, you know why Lillian asked you to come. She asked me to go on, no matter what happened. It was her final request and,” she paused, sniffing. Gaining her composure again, she went on. “And I want to know if you would help my honor it by assisting me.”

Kaylia wiped away her tears, nodding. “She was first friend I’ve ever had, and she gave her life for me. Yes, I will help you honor her last request.”

“The contest is tomorrow, so we must start soon.”

“But what about…” Kaylia trailed off.

“I’ll bury her.” Sir Weaponry offered valiantly. “Once I’m done, we can have a quick ceremony for her. I’ve already sent the doctor to tell the judges what has taken place.”

Princess ForestHeart looked at him in gratitude. “Thank you.” She said. Then, leading Kaylia out the door, she started the journey that would decide who would stay in the contest, and who would be eliminated.

The Treaty Contest: Confrontation

2010-08-30T20:55:00.002-04:00

“Fuego? Fuego! I know you are part of this! If you’ve done anyth-”

“Would you quit following me!” Prince Fuego boomed, his voice echoing around the large hallways of the castles. He swung around to face Ivy, venom-like hatred dripping from his eyes.

She would have quailed had Lillian’s life not been at stake. Instead, she glared up at him. “Look, I know you don’t like me. I’m not a fan of yours. But my maid has gone missing and-”

“What? You can’t keep track of your slave and then you blame me?” He hissed, towering over her.

If looks could kill, I’d be dead. She thought.

But somehow she knew he was the cause of Lillian’s eleven hour disappearing act. Lillian was always on time, and chided ForestHeart when she was not. It was so unlike her, and she hadn’t even sent Ivy a message explaining what was going on. Realizing that Prince Fuego was leaving her, she called after him.

“Fuego! Come back! I-”

“It’s Prince Fuego, soon to be king of Teseroff!” He almost screeched, leaving no doubt in Ivy’s mind there was no way he would ever help her. He stomped off, cursing as he went.

Anger boiled up in the headstrong princess like never before; anger at Fuego for being her enemy, anger at the unknown danger that Lillian was sure to face, anger at Lillian for not coming back, and anger at herself for sending Lillian alone and unprotected. She thought about following Fuego, or going to Judge Harsh for help, but it was no use. She had no evidence that Fuego had done anything, only a bad feeling. If she went up to Judge Harsh and explained her predicament, and that she just had a “feeling”, she would be laughed out of his presence with a face that made strawberries envious. Shaking her head, she turned on her heel and majestically sailed off to her room, unaware of the commotion going on in the kitchen beneath her.

~*~*~*~

“Quickly! Set her down on this here table! I’ll go and get her mistress!” Madelyn, a maid in the castle, ordered, rapidly scrubbing the kitchen table with her soapy apron. Sir Weaponry laid Lillian’s limp form on the table, anger at the injustice raging in his eyes. The teenage girl at his side tried bravely to stop her tears from falling, her brother staring wide-eyed as he whispered, “Ambika okay?”

The girl turned to her brother and started a gentle conversation with him, commenting on all the food and fineries they had never dreamed of seeing up close. Madelyn finished scrubbing the table, and the three companions could hear her clattering down the hall, shouting wildly “Mistress Ivy?! Mistress Ivy! Come quick!”

Sir Weaponry was an experienced healer. You had to be if you stayed around weapons for even a little while. Accidents could happen, and you had to be prepared. He bent over Ivy’s faithful servant, examining the wound where the small blow dart had come into contact with her neck. He had already removed the dart, and had placed it in his pocket. Now he turned and examined it closely. It was about the length of his pinky, and was as thick as a toothpick. A liquid dripped from the end of the dart, red as blood.

It very well may be. He thought, shuttering slightly.

Slowly turning the dart, like a pig on roasting on a spit, the knight studied the red on the tip of the weapon. Before he could decide anything Madelyn returned, bringing with her a stunned and worried Princess ForestHeart. He recalled her daring act during the village fire, and was proud to say he had been at her side, but aside from that, he knew almost nothing about her. She had yet to be eliminated, but he had an idea that someone wanted her gone. This was a message.

Princess Ivy turned to Sir Weaponry, asking him questions while at the same time trying to find out what was wrong with the unresponsive Lillian.

“What happened?”

The knight stretched his hand out, a small splinter shaped piece of wood in his palm. “I don’t know, but I found this in her neck.”

Ivy grabbed the dart, studying it carefully. She had never seen anything like it before, but she knew one thing for sure; the red liquid on the point of the dart was not blood. Ivy knew she was no master of healing, and was even less experienced with poisons, but one thing she knew, this was a poison dart. Lillian still lay flat out on the table; her breathes getting shallower and shallower. Ivy spun around to face the teenage girl who stood silently stunned in the kitchen corner.

“What is your name?” She inquired, trying to be gentle yet firm.

Sir Weaponry was about to speak on the nameless girl’s behalf, but the girl spoke for herself.

“I have no name, but I know what happened to Lillian. She was ambushed; we all were. I don’t know by whom, but before the man attacked us, Lillian whispered the name ‘Bryni’. She was taking us to Princess Forest Ivy, and gave me this to prove my claim,” she held out the sapphire necklace, watching it as it shimmered in the dying light of the kitchen fire.

“Bryni? Are you sure she said that name?” Ivy whispered breathlessly, fear and hate trying to claw their way into her voice.

“Yes, miss. I know that was what she said. And more than that, the man responded to that name. He said Lillian was his ‘old friend’ and then he attacked us. I’m sorry, but that’s all I know.” The girl fell into silence.

Weaponry turned to the still form of Lillian. “Can we help her?”

Ivy bent down over her friend. “We must try. Please, listen carefully. This is what we must do…”

All the Time You Need

2010-08-20T15:36:00.001-04:00

I'm sure that if I asked any one of you, "Have you ever been short on time?", you would look at me like that was a really obvious question. Everyone is short on time! We all have jobs, chores, schoolwork, and other responsibilities, and we only have a matter of hours to do them before we have to begin all over again the next day.

But have you used that as an excuse not to read your Bible or pray? Have you been shoving God aside so that you can get everything else accomplished? I am speaking from personal experience as I tell you girls (and guys!) this. It's hard to admit for me, but it's a convicting truth: I, as well as a lot of other people, don't have the Lord as our highest priority.

Is it true that we simply don't have enough time to fit earthly responsibilities and God into one day?

"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me"
John 10:14

"for the Lord is a God who knows, and by him deeds are weighed."
1 Samuel 2:3b

The Lord knows us, His children, and he has given us all the time we need to accomplish what he wants...but not a second more. If you don't have time to do the most important thing--worship your Creator and Savior--then you are either not doing what he wants, or not being efficient with the time you have.

But what if everything you do is a necessity, and there's no way you can eliminate things to make way for God? First of all, the Lord is the number one necessity. Everything is a waste if you don't do it for Him.

Secondly, are you sure all you are doing is so important? It may be high on the priority list in your mind, but is it in the mind of God? After I realized I was having a time problem, I examined my actions and found that most of my time I squandered away in non-important things. Here are a few major trouble-shooting questions I asked my self.

1. Am I spending too much time on the computer? There's a really cute website that has hilarious captioned pictures of cats that I've found. Although a lot of the pictures are really funny, I find that whenever I'm on the computer, I automatically check that site to see if there's anything new to laugh at. It wastes a surprising amount of time.

2. Am I avoiding or sloppily rushing through my tasks? Getting it done poorly but quickly only means that you'll have to do it again. It's a short cut that is really longer.

3. Is what I'm doing the most important thing? Am I missing out on something even more crucial?

4. Is everything that I'm doing absolutely important and pleasing to the Lord, but I feel really rushed?

And here is how I fixed them:

1. Take an internet break for a couple days. I took one just recently, and I was amazed at how I got used to not spending time on the computer.

2. In everything you do, do it for the Lord. Try memorizing Bible verses about a thankful heart/good attitude when doing an unpleasant, menial chore like folding laundry. Always be cheerful and willing to help others. Also, don't procrastinate!

3. Carefully evaluate all that you're doing. Could you be doing something else that really needs to be done?

4. Consider a schedule change. This is a lot easier if you're home schooled, but even people who go to school can still mix around their chores and homework. Try getting up earlier to have quiet time with God. However, I wouldn't suggest staying up later to have it unless there's no other option.

I hope this helps anyone who has been struggling with the same issues as me!

In Christ,

Princess Izori

The Storyseekers Part 7: Dallian's Secret

2010-08-08T16:15:00.008-04:00

As darkness settled over the land of Estrellica, an eerie silence prevailed inside the palace walls. Everyone was asleep...well, almost everyone.
Thump, thump, thump, thump. If Cheydine had realized how loud his steps sounded on the cold stone floor, he might have stopped walking. As it was, he had too much to think about. He really wasn't sure how Jayrin, Naomi, and Dallian could sleep at a time like this. Cheydine definitely couldn't. Pacing up and down the hallway, lost in his own thoughts, he completely tuned out everything else around him. Until he heard the sound. Stopping, Cheydine became completely silent and listened. He could hear it clearer now. It sounded almost like...someone crying. Cheydine hated that sound. Compassionate and sensitive, he couldn't stand it when someone else was upset. He had to do something. Walking down the hallway, Cheydine tried to follow the sound.
Finally, he found the place where he could hear it the clearest. Staring at the door in front of him, Cheydine tried to decide what to do. Suddenly, he realized where he was. There was no way he could have followed the sound here. The door in front of him...that led to Dallian's room. That's impossible. Cheydine told himself, still, he couldn't hear the sound better anywhere else. It was definitely coming from that room. Dallian's room. Cheydine thought about it, but knew he had only one choice. Silently opening the door, he stepped into the room and closed it behind him. Dallian didn't turn, but just kept staring out the window. Cheydine couldn't tell exactly what Dallian was staring at, but he was pretty sure it was the Skhi Mountains.
Dallian looked up when Cheydine came to stand beside him.
"Why are you still awake?" Cheydine asked softly.
"I might ask the same of you." Dallian snapped.
Cheydine refused to give up. "Dallian, what is wrong?"
"Go away, Cheydine."
"You aren't going to get rid of me that easily. What's wrong?"
Dallian sighed. "You wouldn't understand.
"Why wouldn't I?"
"Because your life is perfect."
Cheydine could see how Dallian might think that. "That isn't true. Not in the least."
Dallian obviously didn't believe that, so Cheydine felt like he should explain.
"I know I'm overly optimistic. But, really, my life has been far from perfect. I choose to be happy. A long time ago, I learned that I could only be optimistic if I chose to be. I knew that everything wouldn't always go right for me, but if I have a good attitude about it, I can find good even in the bad things. So will you tell me what's wrong now?"
Dallian turned away from Cheydine, looking back out the window. "I guess nothing is really wrong."
"I don't believe that in the least."
"Well...nothing out of the ordinary is wrong."
Cheydine knew Dallian was avoiding the question. "Maybe not, but I know there's something wrong. You're hiding something."
"Even if I was, why would I tell you?" Dallian exploded.
"Because if we're going to succeed on this mission, we need to trust each other. Completely."
Dallian thought for a moment. "Alright. Everything I told you in the woods is true...except for two things. One, I haven't been an orphan nearly as long as I made it seem. Two, my parents didn't die when I was little. They were killed three years ago."
Now Cheydine was really confused. "They didn't just die...they were killed?" Only after he asked it did Cheydine realize what a rude question that was.
"Yes. By a monster Lucien set loose in the mountains. We call it the Alunsian. It has killed so many people in our village...it killed my parents. I saw it happen." Dallian's voice held more anger, pain, and hatred than Cheydine had ever heard in all his life.
Dallian turned back to the window, his voice quieter. "Lucien's hold on this kingdom is growing. Our doom is near."

The Treaty Contest: Unbroken Pieces

2010-08-08T06:30:00.001-04:00

The painter of the skies had created a masterpiece that night. Purples, rosy pinks, peach colored oranges, shades of golden yellows, and the color of bluebells blended together beautifully, as if mixed by a brush on a plate. People would stop in the streets and exclaim how marvelous it looked, but the poor teenage girl didn’t even get to see it. Wet, starving, freezing, tired, and hopeless, the girl crumpled to the ground, thoroughly exhausted. She had tried, given it everything she had, for her brother. She had walked those countless miles for him, tried to swim for him, attempted to escape for him, and even tried to hope. Now, her brain was almost as numb as her legs, and thoughts were too hard to think. She lay in the cold sand, ignoring the curious creatures that scuttled over her, wondering what she was. Suddenly her captor roughly pulled the sack off her head. It was pitch black, and the only sounds she could hear were that of her breathing, the lapping of the waves on the lake’s edge, and the mocking voice of her captor.

“Well, well. You aren’t tired already, are you? Such a disappointment you are. I would have thought Lillian would have chosen better.”
He waited for a response. None came.

“Well? What do you have to say? Don’t think you’re good enough either, I bet. Soon you’ll see your purpose, and then you might be able to go free.”

Seeing the slightest hope glow in her eyes, he added “But knowing my master, don’t bet on it. And remember to behave. Your brother isn’t needed, I could always…” he made a slicing motion across his neck with his hand.

She groaned.

“Now, I’m going to give you a ten minute break to sleep. Isn’t that kind of me?”

“Well that’s unfair, seeing as you’re going to take more than a ten minute nap.”

The girl screamed as her tormenter collapsed to the ground. She had never before seen a knight, and she was stunned when she looked at her rescuer. Turning all the way around, she stared at the tall, muscular stranger that had knocked her captor to the ground with his staff. The stranger kicked at the prone figure, rolling the man on his back.

“He won’t be bothering you anymore.” He said a bit harshly. Then, softer, he inquired gently “Why did he have you all tied up?”

Shaking after the shock, the girl just stared at him, eyes wide. Bending down, he reached out to her, cutting the ropes from her bloody wrists. He whistled in surprise.

“Those are some wounds. Come on, let’s go fix you up.”

“No.” She whispered in a voice barely audible.

“Why not?” her rescuer questioned, surprised.

“My brother. I must find him.”

“I’ll find him.” The knight promised, getting up. “In the mean time, pour this water on the wounds,” he handed her a canteen from around his waist “And use this,” he pulled two handkerchiefs from his pocket, “around those wrists. I’ll be right back.”

True to his word, the knight brought the shivering figure of the brother to the teenage girl. She blinked back tears as her eyes swam with gratitude.

“Thank you.”

He shrugged modestly. “Poor fella,” he muttered, slightly embarrassed. “I found him in an old potato sack. Why was that monster after you?”

The girl hugged her brother to her, rocking back and forth. “I don’t know. He came after Lillian and—oh no! Lillian! I forgot! Please, you must help me find her! I don’t know where she is, but I must help her! She saved us!”

Taken aback by this outburst, the noble knight took the girl’s hand and helped her up. “I wouldn’t think of doing anything else.”
“Please sir,” the girl asked, turning to him. “Do you have a name?”

He laughed; a sound that calmed the girl’s split nerves “Of course! Don’t you?”

Seeing the reply in her blue eyes, he quieted. “Oh. I’m sorry. I…” he trailed off, unsure of what to do.

The girl saved him from further embarrassment. “What is your name, sir?”

“I’m Sir Weaponry, Prince of Arfwapen.”
“From the Treaty Contest?” She asked surprise evident in her voice.

“So you’ve heard about me, eh? I suppose I’m popular for getting poked in the eye by a stupid tree branch. Oh well, perhaps there is one good thing about Sir Valliento and Sir Equestrian going missing; my eye has had time to recover. Actually, I just returned from the doctor, and that’s when I found you. I guess it’s good that I got my eye poked after all. Maybe I should find that tree branch and keep it.”
The girl laughed for the first time in a while. It was a sound she was not used to hearing, and completely foreign to Sir Weaponry. He liked it.

“You should laugh more often.” He commented, scooping up her little brother from her exhausted arms.

She was about to protest, but then smiled thankfully at him. “Why?” she asked, pondering his suggestion.

“Because your face lights up when you do, and your eyes seem to sparkle like a lake when sunlight hits it.” Surprised at his own eloquence, he blushed slightly, and was thankful for the beard- if even so small- that covered his face.

The girl did not have such a luxury. Her cheeks turned a deep crimson. Then, remembering Lillian and trying to change the subject, she inquired “Are we near the Treaty Contest Castle then? I lived not twenty miles from the palace, but I’ve been wandering around blindfolded all day. I thought we had left my homeland.”
Prince Weaponry frowned. “Yes, that’s what the man wanted you to think. Slave drivers use that technique, at least, the poorer ones do. Since they don’t have enough money to travel far, they blindfold their slaves and walk them around town, so they think they are going somewhere far away. Then, they take their slaves to the far part of town, and sell them. Thankfully, someone noticed your slave driver and alerted me. I’m glad he did. Now, where were you and Lillian attacked by the man?”
The girl pondered the question thoughtfully before answering. “We had walked about twenty minutes, and we were passing a bakery. I remember because my brother begged for a loaf of bread, and Lillian bought us each a loaf and a cookie.” Her eyes clouded happily “I’ve never had a cookie before. It was wonderful. And most of the bread we eat is hard and slightly moldy. I can’t remember having fresh bread.”
Weaponry tried to bring her back to topic. “So you were about twenty minutes away, and there was a bakery. Anything else?”
“Oh yes. I remember walking past a butcher’s shop and seeing him…” she trailed off, unsure whether or not to go on, the image of blood still in her mind.

“A butcher’s shop? There are only two in this city, and only one has a bakery by it. That’s old Bannock’s shop. He’s getting on in years, but still makes the best cakes.”

Seeing her mouth water, and how skinny she was, he apologized “Sorry, I guess I let my imagination get the better of me. Now,” he said, trying to act business like. “Let’s get to Bannock’s Bakery and find this friend of yours.”

The Storyseekers Part 6: Arguments

2010-08-06T16:03:00.002-04:00

Grey clouds. Empty streets. Silence. To Jayrin, Stellin appeared so much different than when she had left it. There was only the possibility of one conclusion: Lucien's dark army was moving farther into Estrellica. Time was running out.
"Does it always look like this here?" Dallian asked, falling into step beside Jayrin. "Because if it does, then I was right. Cities are terrible places. Especially this one."
Jayrin could feel the anger rising within her. "Of course it doesn't always look like this. Cities are amazing places...under normal circumstances."
"Estrellica is full of places much better than Stellin. But, I guess you wouldn't understand that, since you're only a girl."
Jayrin had had about enough. "And what is wrong with me being a girl?"
"Oh, nothing." Dallian replied, as though he believed Jayrin wasn't smart enough to understand what he meant.
"You think you're better than me!"
"Actually," Dallian corrected in a sophisticated tone, "I believe myself to be superior to one such as...you."
"Well," Jayrin replied sarcastically, "You're very good at pretending to be smart, maybe someday you really will be."
Dallian immediately dropped his innocent facade, replacing it with his usual cold glare. "All cities are terrible, and all city people are arrogant. Why don't you just accept the truth?"
"Because it isn't the truth!"
"Fine. Be that way."
"Would you two just stop it?" Naomi asked finally, weary of the constant fighting.
For once, Even Cheydine didn't look happy. "I agree with Naomi. You're giving me a headache."
"I'd stop if Dallian would quit starting arguments." Jayrin protested. Naomi wasn't convinced.
"It takes two of you to have an argument." she said. A mischievous gleam entered Dallian's eyes.
"Naomi's right, Jayrin. Maybe if you weren't so immature, you would stop arguing and just accept the fact that you're wrong and I am right."
Jayrin looked as if she could explode any second. "You stupid little..."
"That is enough!" Melodica interrupted, glaring at Jayrin and Dallian. "It would be best if you you two would at least try and get along!"
Without a word to anyone, Jayrin pushed Dallian aside and walked in front of him, anger showing in every step she took. Clenching his fists at his sides, Dallian looked as though he wanted to shove her into a mud puddle.

A loud screeching sound could be heard above Jayrin's head. She looked up in annoyance. "Would that bird please be quiet?" she asked sharply.
"It's not just a bird." Dallian shot back. "It's a falcon. Her name is Keiree, and she belongs to me."
Jayrin didn't believe it. "Sure she does."
"It's true! I can prove it." Looking up toward the sky, Dallian called the bird's name. It swooped down out of the sky, landing gracefully at Dallian's feet. "Told you." he said. Naomi, Jayrin, Cheydine, and Melodica crowded around him, looking curiously at the white-and-gray falcon.
"Oh!" Naomi gasped, eyes shining.
"She's beautiful." Cheydine agreed in an awed tone. Dallian smiled for the first time.
"Isn't she? I've raised her since before she could fly. I never found out what happened to her parents." He suddenly looked down, a shadow passing though his eyes. "Maybe they died. Like mine."
"Are you alright, Dallian?" Naomi asked gently. Dallian looked up, quickly blinking away the tears in his eyes, hoping no one could see the feelings he tried so hard to hide. "I'm fine."
Naomi looked concerned, but didn't say anything. After a long silence, Melodica pointed ahead of them.
"We aren't far from the castle now. Come on."

"And you're sure she has found all four?" Lucien's black eyes searched General Sebel's face.
"Yes Sire."
"Where are they now?" Feeling sure that total domination of Estrellica was close at hand, Lucien smiled.
"The princess is taking them to Stellin to be commissioned." Sebel replied, glad that she knew the answer. Lucien didn't exactly take kindly to people who couldn't answer his questions.
Lucien nodded with evil glee. "Then they are within our grasp. Estrellica will soon be mine!"
"Whatever you say, Sire." if Lucien had been paying more attention, he might have seen General Sebel roll her eyes or have heard the sarcastic tone in her voice. He didn't, and therefore he still believed that she was loyal to him and would help establish him as king of Estrellica.
He, of course, was wrong. General Sebel had other plans.

Pronunciation Guide:
Keiree: Keyr-ee

Another Reason for Modesty

2010-08-05T16:24:00.009-04:00

As Princess Catherine and Princess Izori have pointed out in their posts, modesty is important because it can help you be a witness for Christ and can even help to keep you safe from dangerous situations and unwanted attention. In this post I'd like to share with you yet another reason that modesty is important.

Modesty helps the guys around us to keep their minds pure.

Guys are wired differently than girls are, so when they see girls who are showing inappropriate parts of their bodies(i.e. cleavage, stomach, large part of their back, too much of their legs, etc.) by wearing tight, short, or low clothing, their minds go to places that they shouldn't venture into. They can easily start thinking impure thoughts, to the extreme.

Because God made us differently, we girls don't have as much of a problem with things like that, but that doesn't mean we don't have a responsibility to do what we can to help our future husbands and our brothers in Christ. If we will steer clear of immodest clothing and dress in an appropriate way that honors the Lord, it can make a difference. Instead of the guys being wrapped up in thinking about our bodies, they can see us and talk to us without being distracted.

It must be frustrating to them when they're trying to keep their minds pure to see a Christian girl, wearing revealing clothes, walking around not bothering to help them in this matter. Please realize I don't mean to point fingers or condemn, but this is the truth. I've seen many Christian girls dress immodestly(in my opinion) while they think what they're wearing is fine. This can distract guys and cause them to sin in thinking wrong thoughts.

Also, whenever you meet your future husband, wouldn't it be great if you two could have a relationship that was based more on Christ than on physical appearances? Wouldn't you like for him to like you and love you for who you are, not how you look? Why not start practicing to dress modestly now?

I'm not asking you to dress down, dress in a dumpy manner, or to not be fashionable, but please take a look at how you are dressing and what you are wearing. We don't want to be a hindrance to a guy's walk with the Lord. Let's help them out by being modest!

~Princess Gloria

School Shopping Tips

2010-08-03T09:28:00.019-04:00

As school is coming around the corner (sigh), there is one advantage to those who enjoy the mall; back to school shopping. And although it's fun to grab anything that comes into sight or that is your size, please keep some things in mind. Yes I know, no mindless shopping! :) I know it can be frustrating to find clothes that are your size that don't grip too tight or are just too revealing. It's hard to find clothes in your size anyway, right (especially jeans!)? Sometimes I joke that I'll have to go into the boy's section to find some shirts that fit right! But how much are you going to compromise fashion for modesty? Hopefully, with these tips, you won't have to push fashion aside, and yet keep modesty as your main goal.

SHIRT TIPS

I hear people criticizing V-necks, but I believe that they are over generalizing that style of shirts. There is a simple solution to low-cut tops; tank tops! Coming in a wide variety of colors (from red to blue and back again) at most stores, tank tops also have different styles. Lace, frills, sequences, or plain; the choice is yours! Not only are they a fashion statement in themselves (and becoming more popular), they also guard against anyone seeing more down the V than you want them to. Because of the strap adjusters on the tank tops, you can also alter them to have them closer to your neck, or lower down. Tank tops also cover anything you don't want showing when you bend down to pick something up, or when you raise your hands above your head. Also, for those low cut pants, tank tops are a bonus, for when you bend over people see the tank top and not your underwear.

Over all, tank tops are not only a fashion accessory that come in a wide variety, but they also can keep the modesty factor in your style as well. :)

With too tight shirts, I would recommend layering as well (or buy a size up). Wear a loose jacket over the tight shirt, or maybe a bigger shirt over that one. Also watch out for very thin materials, as they will sometimes be see through in strong lighting. Usually the dressing rooms have strong lighting, so you should be able to tell right away whether or not the material is too thin. Use your good judgment.

PANT TIPS

Although shorts are what most people fret about, some pant styles can also lean towards immodesty. Is it just me, or are pants starting to get a little lower? Also "tight" pants are in, but this has the same effect as too-tight shirts. We've already covered a solution for low-cut pants; tank tops. But what about too-tight pants? You would have to be really creative to layer pants, and even then it might not look right. So what are we to do?
The only solution I've found is buy a size up so it doesn't cling as much, and use a belt. Belts come in more styles, varieties, materials, and colors then tank tops, so if you do decide to go a size up, use belts as a useful accessory. :) Another way is to find a style of jeans that aren't clingy, though they may not always "feel" right (I know how pant shopping is!).

SOME FINAL TIPS

Keep an eye on what your shirts say, or convey. For example, the shirts that say things like "Spoiled Brat" and "Drama Queen". I don't think that going around wearing a shirt like that, and then claiming to be a follower of Christ mix well. Pictures on shirts can be that way as well. Remember that your shirt is like a built-in bulletin board; whatever you have on it, people automatically assume you agree with it (and that should be the case). Remember also that as a follower of Christ, the light of Christ should shine through, being a beacon on hope to the lost. Although it's not the best way to judge, people often judge on outward appearances. That's why I believe modesty is so important.

I hope that these tips will help you on your "quest" of modesty. I apologize if your head is spinning because of all the information or tips; it is a lot to remember when you've been out of school for a while! :)

It's hard to believe school is right around the corner...

The Storyseekers Part 5: Naomi's Hope

2010-07-25T18:23:00.014-04:00

"If I could make just one perfect shot..."
Naomi aimed her arrow slightly to the left, trying to find the perfect position. Pulling back on her bowstring, she wondered why in the world she was talking to herself. Someone might hear and think she was crazy...if they didn't already.
"Naomi!"
barely one half second after she let the arrow go, Naomi heard her mother's voice calling her name. Startled, Naomi realized she should have kept better track of time. Hiding her bow and arrows under a mound of hay, she glanced quickly out the barn window. Judging by the position of the sun, supper was in less than an hour...and Naomi hadn't nearly finished her chores yet. Pushing her "target" (a.k.a.- unused hay bale) back in place, she pushed open the heavy barn door, the latch clicking behind her.

Naomi made it inside just in time, trying to remain unnoticed. Of course, she knew that was too much to hope for. Though she was the youngest, Naomi's eight siblings always knew when she was missing.
"You're always late, Naomi. Where were you this time?"
Closest to Naomi in age, Mariana seemed to find great joy in pointing out the mistakes of others, especially Naomi. Sighing, Naomi looked down at her plate, hoping her sister didn't expect her to answer. Of course, that was also too much to hope for.
"I said, where were you?"
Naomi's oldest sister, Elise, glared at Mariana across the table.
"Leave Naomi alone."

Naomi's favorite time of day was evening, when the sky couldn't seem to decide which color to turn. Walking toward the edge of her family's farm, Naomi came in sight of the one lone tree that marked the farthest corner of the property line. In one terrifying moment, Naomi realized she wasn't alone. Three people, somewhere around her age, were sitting under the tree. Drawing closer, Naomi realized she didn't recognize any of them. The three of them were deep in conversation, and didn't notice her for quite a while. Naomi watched them carefully. The person closest to her was a girl, about fifteen, with green eyes and a long brown braid. The blond-haired, blue-eyed boy next to her had a certain cheerful look to him, almost as if he always smiled. The clothes he wore were made of animal skins, though not animals Naomi was familiar with. The third person was also a boy, with jaggedly cut black hair and a somewhat bitter and angry look. His eyes were also green, though not nearly as bright as the girl's. Whenever he spoke, which wasn't often, he made the girl look angry. Stepping closer, Naomi was finally noticed by the other three when she spoke.
"Who are you?"
The black-haired boy looked up, frowning when he saw her. "I might ask the same of you." he replied shortly. The girl rolled her eyes. "Pay no attention to Dallian. He doesn't trust anyone."
The blond-haired boy smiled. "She's right, he doesn't." He smiled again, although Naomi was almost sure he never stopped smiling.
"What is your name?" She asked, finding him the easiest of the three to talk to.
"Please call me Cheydine. What's your name?"
"I'm Naomi."
Cheydine's eyes lit up. "I like that name." Turning, he introduced the other two. "This is Jayrin, and...well...you've already met Dallian."
Jayrin giggled, quickly hiding it when Dallian glared at her. Naomi was intrigued by all three of them. For the first time, she realized how different they were from the people she was used to seeing.
"You aren't from here...are you?" she asked curiously. This time, Jayrin answered.
"Far from it. I was raised in Stellin," she motioned toward Cheydine "Cheydine is a forestdweller,"
"From the Spearhead Forest." Cheydine interrupted. In the silence that followed, both Cheydine and Jayrin turned to look at Dallian. Dallian just rolled his eyes, completely ignoring his companions. Jayrin sighed in exasperation.
"Dallian is from the Skhi Mountains." she said, looking as though she wished he were there instead of here.
"As if it concerns you." Dallian interjected, glaring at Naomi with eyes that resembled cold, hard, green ice. Naomi backed away a step.
Jayrin rolled her own eyes in Dallian's direction. "Pay him no mind." She said, speaking to Naomi though not looking at her.
Now Naomi had another question. "So, if you come from so far away, why are you here...on our farm?"
Jayrin suddenly looked excited. "You live here?!?!"
Naomi was confused. "Yes. Why?"
Jayrin's answer tumbled out so fast, Naomi could barely understand her. "Melodica said that we would find the fourth Storyseeker on this farm! You must be her! Now that we're all together, we can begin our mission! I knew we would find you! I knew it!"
Now Naomi was really confused. "Wait, wait, wait. Slow down. So...you three are Storyseekers...and you think that I'm one too?"
Jayrin nodded. "Exactly."
Naomi was sure that Jayrin must be mistaken. "My mother used to tell us legends about the days when all Estrellicans followed Shaddi. HE even wrote them a book called...um...the Story of Shaddi, I think. But, Mother said that the book was lost when Estrellica turned away from Shaddi. She said that when the time came, Shaddi would appoint the four Storyseekers to find the Story of Shaddi, and bring Estrellica back to HIM. Mother has been telling those stories for years. Even if the age of the Storyseekers has come--and I'm not entirely sure it has--why in all the world would Shaddi pick me?"
Jayrin smiled gently. "I thought the same thing when Princess Melodica found me. I was sure that she must have made a mistake. It soon became clear, however, that she didn't. I even found out that my parents had always known the truth...but hadn't told me because the time had not yet come."
"I was surprised to find that my parents knew too." Cheydine added. "Shaddi placed me with them for a purpose. HE placed you with your parents too."
It was all too much for Naomi to take in. "So...if Princess Melodica told you all of this, where is she?"
Jayrin nodded toward Naomi's cottage. "Inside. She went to tell your mother that the time has come."
Naomi's mind whirled in a million directions as she spoke. "You're really serious about this, aren't you? But, are you sure I'm the one? I have four sisters and four brothers--all of whom are much more qualified for this position than I am."
"All the same, Shaddi picked you." Everyone whirled around in shock when Dallian spoke, though he didn't seem to notice. "If Shaddi were picking the best Estrellicans for this position...HE never would have picked me. Not in a million years."

"And you're sure that all of your children are here?" Melodica again searched the eyes of each of the eight teenagers in front of her. Elise, Thomas, Peter, Rachela, Ethan, Josiah, Reina, and Mariana. There had to be one missing! All the ancient Storyseeker legends pointed to the fourth Storyseeker living at this exact location. Still, Melodica was sure that none of the eight in front of her were who she was looking for. Melodica turned toward Mrs. Archer, hoping against hope that she might actually have nine children instead of eight. Before her mother could answer, however, Mariana interrupted.
"Mother," she said, her voice dripping with an artificial sweetness. "Shouldn't Naomi be here?"
Mrs. Archer only smiled at Mariana's words.
"Yes." she said, looking at Melodica. "Please, Your Highness, come with me."

Once safely out of the earshot of her other children, Naomi's mother revealed the truth to Princess Melodica.
"The girl of whom you speak was placed under the care of my husband and I fourteen years ago by Shaddi Himself. Her name is Naomi. I would have told you earlier, but it is a secret which I did not yet wish to reveal in the presence of my biological children."
Melodica understood. "Where is she?"
Mrs. Archer nodded toward the door. "Outside. Come, I will show you."

"Alright, Commander. If we are ever going to make any progress on this mission, you will have to cooperate." General Sebel's eyes flashed as she spoke. "And when I say cooperate, I do not mean that you take charge of this mission. I mean for you to realize that I am in charge!"
Commander Kylin shrank back. "Yes, General."
Sebel turned to address the small group of dark warriors who accompanied them. "King Lucien gave us one week to follow Princess Melodica and make sure she found the last two Storyseekers. Our time is running short, and I have had enough foolishness from the lot of you!"
"When will we be able to go back to camp?" one warrior complained. General Sebel fixed him with her sharp grey eyes, looking as though she could spit fire.
"We will return when you fools stop complaining and begin following orders!"

Pronunciation Guide:
Naomi: nay-o-me
Elise: el-ees
Rachela: ra-shell-uh
Reina: rain-a
Mariana: mari-ahnah

Four Questions From A Reader

2010-07-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

Dear Readers,

This is a post reply to a few questions that one of our readers had about courting vs dating, an courting and dating in general. Instead of answering in a comment, we answered in a post because of two things. First, our answer (as you can see) is long. It wouldn't fit in a comment. And second, our reader had some questions, questions you might have yourself. In this post we hope to answer some of those questions.

Blessings,

Princess Catherine ~*~

Princess Izori

Princess Melody

Princess Gloria

Princess Sapphire

Princess Jade

Princess Alicia

The Comment:

Alright I am really confused about some things. Hopefully you'll be able to help me (:

Ok, one, if something is "old", (Like courting) and something "new" (Dating, in your opinion) is available, why not use the "new" (dating)? You used the "mailbox and door" example, but really a door is plain and boring, so is a mailbox, and in my opinion so is courting. Why court when you can date?

Two, dating really isn't "new". It's been around for awhile and most people don't even know what courting is. I asked my friends if they've ever heard f courting and most of them said either, "No." or "OMG! Yea I've heard of it! Ew!!" Or something to that effect. So I don't really think dating is a "trend" I think most people don't know what courting is or they think it's boring... Any thoughts?

Three, is there a reason you attack dating consistently? You said there are only two "benifits". I'm sorry but I can not agree. All dating ISN'T bad, I've actually dated some really great guys. Christian guys with good morals. Anyway, I believe there are more "benifits" than just those two. People USUALLY love their bf's/gf's (: It's not just a fun "party" if you will.

Sorry if I sound like I'm attacking your veiws, I'm not trying to I'm just confused about why you are so against dating. So could you answer these questions for me?(:

1. Why court when you can date? Dating is a ton funner.

2. What are the benifits of courting versus dating?

3. Are you against dating all together? Not all dating is bad.

4. Do you think perhaps dating has any REAL benifits in your opinion?

That's all for now. Thank's so much! :D (Again I appologize if I offended you, I am NOT trying to attack your views. :) )

Our Answer:

1. Why court when you can date? Dating is a ton funner.

In our culture, dating seems to be short-term, while courting is more of a long-term commitment.

It can also be hurtful. Dating can easily get you off track in your walk in purity. Since we are like

rosebuds, we have to wait 'til we fully open; if we don't, each time you give your heart away it's like

plucking a petal off your flower, then you won't bloom properly. In dating, this is so easy to do, where

as courting is different. In courting, the guy who asks your family if he can get to know you, and (if they

say yes) they know that he is planning to marry you. They also know that he is not giving his heart to

someone else and hurting you or vice versa. Plus he has to pass all the standards of your whole family

and that is an extra guard. This isn't all about fun. Fun can be deadly, most of the time figuratively, but

sometimes in reality as well.

Has anyone else heard about the dating violence that has killed many teens? In these cases, the parents

were not informed of behavior that was hints of the violence to follow because, like the 'traditional'

dating method, the dating couple was unattended. In 'traditional' dating, two people go out to

the movies, a restaurant, or some other place without their parents. Thus, the parents know nothing of

what goes on between the two, including violence and ungodly behavior. Sure, there are some great guys

who date, and there are also some not-so-great guys. I'm not saying that any guy you date is awful, but

you can run into a “bad apple”...with tragic results. Yes, dating can be fun. Dating definitely is popular.

But is it wise? Think of 'crack' or 'pot'. Is taking those drugs fun? According to addicts, it sure is. Is it

popular? Sadly, yes. Is it dangerous? It can be lethal, not to mention it is illegal. Of course, there are

important differences. Dating only has the potential to be dangerous, where as taking drugs is basically

killing yourself. Dating isn't illegal, where as drugs are.

Ultimately, all girls have a right to make their own personal choices about dating.

But my thoughts are headed towards lots of prayer and a close involvement with my parents and brothers

(when God brings my future husband into my life).

2 .What are the benefits of courting versus dating?

We have a post that talks about the list of the benefits courting has to offer. Click here for the post. It is in two parts, so to read the first part click here. We also had a post that was directly before these

two posts that are mentioned, and they are

Is Dating Dangerous? Part 1 and Is Dating Dangerous? Part 2

. I hope they help answer this question that you asked. If not, we will be happy to help you more. :)

3. Are you against dating all together? Not all dating is bad.

It depends on the definition.

If it means “a meeting with someone of the opposite gender who you really know nothing about, without

your or their parents”, then I say it's dangerous and foolish. On the other hand, "dating" when both parties

are serious about a relationship is "fine" in my opinion, but just for fun can be not such a good idea. And

if you know that the other person is trustworthy and won't do anything that will put you (or them) at risk,

not to mention your parents are okay with you being with them and, even better, are in attendance, then I

say it's fine. As a matter of fact, I think that sounds a bit like courting! :)

4. Do you think perhaps dating has any REAL benefits in your opinion?

You asked if there was a reason we were attacking dating constantly. We are not 'attacking' dating. We

are speaking out against it and offering a better solution. Dating might have some benefits, but we think

that overall dating can be hurtful and you can give away pieces of your heart. With dating, you won't keep

your heart as guarded as one could when you're courting. In our opinion, dating doesn't make much sense.

Why would you want to be in a relationship with someone when you either don't plan on marrying them

or aren't ready to make the commitment yet? Yes, it may be more private without the chaperons breathing

down your neck, but honestly (in our opinion) that's not enough of a benefit to be willing to compromise

your safety.

Thank you again for your questions and honest comments!

Blessings,

The Storyseekers Part 4: Cheydine

2010-07-11T15:08:00.008-04:00

"Where in the world are we?" Dallian glanced quickly around him, hurrying to catch up with Melodica and Jayrin. "This doesn't even feel like Estrellica."
He's right. Jayrin had to admit to herself. Spearhead Forest definitely felt like a different world from what any of them were used to. The muddy ground beneath their feet was scattered with leaves and a few wild flowers. The trees had thick, wide bases and moss hanging from the branches, sheltering the undergrowth of ferns and other exotic looking plants. Strange bird calls echoed through the air, and the plant life around them rustled as unseen animals passed through them. Fear pricked Jayrin's mind as she considered what kinds of carnivorous creatures lived here, but her adventurous spirit kept her going.
Melodica looked around, trying to decide how much further they had to go until they reached civilization. "If you prefer to stay here, Dallian," she said with a mischievous grin, "Then I'm sure I could leave you and Jayrin together."
Glancing quickly at Jayrin, Dallian shook his head. "No thank you!"
Melodica laughed, but Jayrin obviously didn't think it was funny.

It had been two hours, and Melodica was beginning to wonder if any of the forestdwellers still lived here. Just then, a long spear flew out of the trees in front of them. Melodica, Jayrin, and Dallian all jumped to the left as the spear whizzed past their heads, embedding itself in the soft ground behind them.
"What was that?" Jayrin gasped, looking toward the tree from which the spear had come. Just as she began pulling back leaves to search the branches, something hit the ground behind her. Turning with a start, she realized it was a blond-haired boy about Dallian's age. Jayrin looked back at the tree, which soared high into the sky, and then back at the boy.
"Did you jump out of that tree?" She asked, wondering how he had done it so expertly. He just smiled.
"Sure. I do it all the time." Watching the three of them closely with his bright blue eyes, the boy nodded toward the spear. "I'm sorry if I scared you. I didn't notice you were there until I threw my spear. I promise I wasn't trying to hit you."
Dallian looked suspicious. "And just why should I believe that?"
"Because if I had been trying to hit you, you would be dead right now." The look on the boy's face told Dallian that he was serious.
"Who are you?" Melodica asked, speaking for the first time since they met the boy. His countenance brightened immediately.
"My name is Cheydines Estrasis Treesis." He replied with a smile, "But everyone just calls me Cheydine."
Melodica felt relieved. This quest had been much easier than she had thought! This must be the third Storyseeker, and it had taken her no time at all to find him. "Tell me, Cheydine," she said, "Where do you live?"
Cheydine pointed behind him. "Back there, in the village. All of the forestdwellers live there."
"He's the one we're looking for!" Melodica turned to Jayrin and Dallian. Cheydine looked confused.
"Why are you looking for me?"

Cheydine's excitement grew with each word. By the time Melodica was done telling the story, he could barely sit still.
"Mama used to tell me stories like that when I was little! Are you sure I'm the right one?"
Melodica nodded. "Positive."
Cheydine bounced up onto a tree branch above them. "Then come on! We have to tell my parents!" He raced off through the trees so fast, Melodica, Jayrin and Dallian could barely keep up.

The forest opened into a large open area surrounded by trees, a bare circle in the midst of the dense forest. While Dallian would have expected the buildings to be on the ground, he was surprised to discover that they weren't. All of the houses-more like tree houses-were built into the leafy treetops. For the first time in his life, Dallian wondered if maybe there were others in Estrellica who would understand how his people lived. After all, living in a treetop wasn't that much different than living on a a mountain. At least Cheydine was as far from living in a city as Dallian himself was. As far as he knew, cities were terrible places. Oh sure, Jayrin was raised in a city, but he didn't really like Jayrin, so that just supported his view. Turning, he watched Jayrin land on a tree branch beside Princess Melodica. Watching her, Dallian wondered how Jayrin could possibly have kept up with him and Cheydine. They were used to climbing, she wasn't. Still, she seemed to believe that she could do anything.
Throwing aside her brown braid, Jayrin's green eyes sparkled with adventure. For the first time, Dallian wondered what color his eyes were. Of course, he couldn't see them. People said they were green, but he really hoped they weren't. That would mean he had the same eye color as Jayrin.
Dallian looked up when Cheydine landed beside him.
"Do you not...like Jayrin?" Cheydine asked cautiously. Dallian shook his head.
"Not really."
"Why not?"
"Because she's a stuck-up city girl." Dallian looked angry at the thought of it. Cheydine looked confused.
"I don't think so. I like her. I like everyone."
"Never would've guessed." Dallian's answer sounded more sarcastic than he meant it to, though Cheydine didn't seem at all angry. He watched Dallian intently for a moment before speaking.
"Dallian, there's only one thing you're missing."
"What's that?"
"A friend."
Dallian tried not to let his surprise show in his face. "What do you mean?"
Cheydine's face remained completely serious as he answered. "I mean that you need a friend. You seem lonely to me...don't you have anyone to talk to?"
Dallian wasn't able to answer the question at first, as he had never been asked it before. "Well...not really...no. My parents died when I was little. Most of the children in our village were orphans. I was always the oldest, so I looked out for all the rest of them. That's why I hated to leave. I really don't know what will happen to the others..." Though he didn't want to, Dallian began to think about the other children in his village. He tried to push their memory out of his mind, but it was much harder to do then it seemed. Suddenly, he wondered why he was telling Cheydine all of this. Why was it any of his business? Still, Dallian felt as though he needed to finish answering the question. "So, like I said before, I talk to no one because I don't need anyone. I 'm fine on my own."
Cheydine sat quietly, thinking about what Dallian had said. "You need us to help you find the Story of Shaddi." he said finally. Dallian shrugged.
"We'll see."

Though Cheydine and Dallian believed no one could hear them, they failed to see the glittering black eyes watching them through the thick foliage. Commander Kylin was so engrossed in the scene before him, he forgot to be careful. Letting go of the branch he was holding back, he carelessly let it fling backwards into General Sebel's face. Upon realizing his mistake, the commander turned quickly around.
"Forgive me, General." he apologized immediately, fearing the evil look in the Sebel's grey eyes. "I wasn't paying attention."
General Sebel narrowed her eyes. "Obviously, Commander. Be sure it doesn't happen again, or it could be your last mistake."
Kylin shuddered, turning his gaze toward the ground before looking through the trees once more.
"General, the Princess and Jayrin have joined them now. It appears that they are making plans to find the fourth Storyseeker. We must report this to King Lucien! The only reason he couldn't guard the fourth Storyseeker is because he could never find her!" Kylin's enthusiasm was cut short by a glare from General Sebel.
"No, Commander, we will not tell Lucien. It is imperative that only I receive this information." Sebel leaned in closer, straining to hear what Melodica said. After a few moments, she leaned back to address the small group of warriors surrounding her.
"The fourth Storyseeker has been placed on a farm in western Estrellica. There are few people living in that region, therefore, Lucien never looked very hard there. That, of course, is why he never found her. Furthermore, he never will. None of you are permitted to tell him. Ever!"

When the others had left, Sebel remained alone. Peering through the trees again, she laughed to herself. "King Lucien is foolish enough to believe that I will actually help make him king. Of course, he won't ever rule Estrellica. As soon as he wins this battle, his blood will adorn my sword."

Pronunciation Guide:
Cheydine: chay-din
Kylin: k-I-lin

The Storyseekers: Dallian

2010-07-10T14:00:00.002-04:00

Melodica had always known the Skhi mountains were tall, but not nearly this tall. It looked as if it would take someone weeks just to make it to the top! She was glad she only had to go part way. This journey, though necessary, had turned out much more difficult than it initially appeared to be. First she had to find Jayrin, then she had to convince Jayrin's parents to let their daughter go, and now she had to search some obscure mountain village. Knowing Lucien could attack any time, she tried to climb faster. It appeared, however, that she was getting nowhere quickly.

Hours later, Melodica finally found herself standing at the edge of a tiny village. Why in the world would one of the Storyseekers be placed here? she wondered, glancing around her. The village was...not quite what Melodica was used to seeing around Stellin. The houses were simple mud huts; surrounded by piles of sticks and branches. Drawing closer, Melodica realized that all the branches were barbed with dangerously large thorns. Shivering, she realized that the villagers must be trying to protect themselves from the Alunsian. If I lived around that monster, I would want to protect myself to. Melodica thought fearfully. Then, trying to push aside her anxious thoughts, she remembered the reason she was here. All she had to do was find one boy, and then she could leave.

Many children ran through the muddy streets; barefoot and dressed in rags. Watching them play, Melodica wondered how she would find the one person she was searching for. She knew his name, of course, but that didn't give her much to go on.
"Who are you?"
Startled, Melodica spun around. The boy standing behind her must have been at least fifteen years of age, though Melodica couldn't tell for sure. She wondered how long he had been there without her noticing.

"I said, 'who are you'." he repeated, irritation in his voice. Jolted back to reality, Melodica answered without thinking.
"I'm Princess Melodica." As soon as the words were out of her mouth, Melodica realized that she probably shouldn't have said that. The teenage boy backed away a step.
"Then what are you doing here?" the sound of his voice told Melodica he wanted her to leave, but she couldn't turn back now."I'm looking for someone." She answered quickly. "Please, could you tell me your name?"
"It's Dallian." he replied simply.
Melodica's heart jumped. He had to be the one she was looking for! "Who are your parents?" Melodica was so excited to have found the second Storyseeker, she didn't even think about what his reply might be.
"I don't have any parents." He turned toward the other children playing in the street. "Most of us don't...but why do you care?"

"I said I was looking for someone. You are that person."
Dallian took a step back. "I'm who?"
Melodica tried to hide her elation and answer seriously.
"The second Storyseeker."

"What took you so long?" Jayrin had been left at the bottom of the mountain for quite a while, and her irritation spilled over with every word. Without waiting for an answer, she looked past Melodica to the boy behind her.
"Who is this?"
The boy's green eyes narrowed. "I have a name."
Sure he did, but what did Jayrin care? He was just some poor mountain villager. "Alright then, what is it?"
The boy pushed his black hair out of his eyes, annoyance clearly etched across his face. "I'm called Dallian."
Well, his name was alright, but Jayrin couldn't say the same for Dallian himself. She made no effort to introduce herself, but Dallian noticed immediately.
"It's only fair that you tell me your name. Even if it is some fancy city name."
Jayrin was shocked. "How did you know I was from the city?"
"You can always tell city people from everyone else. They're more arrogant."
Anger stabbed Jayrin's insides. "I'm not arrogant!"
Dallian looked just as angry. "Are to. So are you going to tell me your name or not?"
Though she didn't want to answer, Jayrin knew Melodica was watching her. Rolling her eyes, she tossed an answer in Dallian's direction. "Whatever. I'm Jayrin. I'm from Stellin."
"What are you doing here, then?" Dallian's question shot out like an arrow.
"I'm a Storyseeker."
Dallian sighed in frustration. "Perfect. Not only do I have to spend who-knows-how-long searching for some book, now I have to do it with you."
At that point, Melodica stepped in. "That is enough! You are both Storyseekers, and you both need to get along. Now we have to go. We still have two more Storyseekers left to find."

"She's found two of them, Sire." General Sebell felt as pleased as King Lucien seemed to be. "She only has two left to find."
Lucien nodded. "Perfect, perfect. Estrellica is on the verge of total domination! Are the troops prepared, General?"
"We are ready to attack any day, Your Highness."
"Excellent. We know have only to wait for that foolish princess to send those four children right into our trap."
General Sebell smirked. "She is doing just as we wish, Sire."
"Yes." Lucien waved a hand toward the tent entrance. "General, I want you to alert the army. Tell them to be on the lookout for the four Storyseekers. They should be unsupervised and easy prey. Set invisible guards along the roads to alert me of their intentions. You are dismissed."
Black cape swooshing against the floor, Sebell rose. "As you wish, Sire." Turning to leave, she suddenly stopped. "Sire, won't Eyris be watching the Storyseekers? What do we do if we run into her?"
Lucien appeared unconcerned. "We will deal with her easily."

Pronunciation guide:
Dallian: dall-ee-in
Skhi Mountains: Sky Mountains
Eyris: air-is
Alunsian: aloon-see-on