tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51845451900946405972024-03-13T12:18:03.828-07:00God LivesJo Franz is a national college and business speaker, as well as a church service, women's retreat and conference speaker who loves a life of adventure, is full of joy, and yet knows how to relate to the hurting. She has lived with multiple sclerosis since 1977, and though divorce, a spinal cord injury, and more trauma followed her diagnosis, so did numerous unexpected blessings.Jo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-68258283187736648182010-10-21T15:19:00.000-07:002010-10-21T15:25:59.964-07:00Blog Interrupted!If you're a reader of mine (or you're just looking around my website) you've noticed my ability to stay current writing a blog has been sketchy at best.<br /><br />It isn't because of my health in anyway--MS or otherwise--I'm so happy to say! I've just been very busy speaking, singing, writing, and letting God give me proper rest that I have been interrupted often from this joy.<br /><br />Since many speaker friends have blogs on their home pages, I may do that soon--and I may not. We're reworking my entire site and I'll let you know here what's happening there when it is up and running and I've decided. <br /><br />Until then, I hope you're doing well and experiencing God's blessings.<br /><br />"Take a limitation and turn it into an opportunity. Take an opportunity and turn it into an adventure by dreaming BIG!" Jo FranzJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-60079593457568861152010-05-25T15:02:00.000-07:002010-05-25T15:12:47.834-07:00Fighting MSI haven't written a blog post in an embarrassingly long time! The good news it's been because I've been feeling pretty good and I've definitely been busy. And saving myself for speaking engagements meant something had to go, unfortunately it was the blog--sorry to those who were followers and gave up. I kept thinking I would get back to it--ever feel that way about something?<br /><br />Tomorrow is World MS Day and if you read this blog I hope you to www.worldmsday.org/ We need to keep fighting to find treatments and the cure because MS alters lives. <br /><br />I'm blessed to be supported by a wonderful husband and have the tremendous joy of sharing with audiences--listeners and readers alike. I have purpose in my life and I hope all those with MS who read this do as well.<br /><br />Hoping stay connected more often---!<br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-65389561996078254102009-08-20T15:07:00.000-07:002009-08-20T15:18:42.157-07:00Child-like LivingLast week our daughter's family came from California to visit. We had been anticipating it for months... Lindsey has three daughters and that means three grandchildren came to play! I love being with these young ones not only because I love them, but because they remind me how to have fun like a child does.<br /><br />One afternoon we all went to the Oregon Children's Museum where there are lots of interactive exhibits. What fun to see the girls who love to go grocery shopping with Mommy put their own (fake but real-looking) food in small buggies and take them to the cash register that actually makes a noise when items are passed over it! What fun to see Calysta (ten) serve a plate lunch she had "cooked" for her grandpa. And the water area was dousing at it's best for even Ryenn who is eighteen months. We took Maycn when she was that age and she loved even more at age five.<br /><br />Then on Sunday we went to the Clark County Fair. (Was I ever glad it wasn't a scorcher like we had the week before!) Calysta and Maycn rode the Ferris wheel with me and oh, I enjoyed as much if not more than they did!<br /><br />When we moseyed through an exhibit room there were several trampoline bungee jumpers--all children--having such fun. I yelled, "Can anyone do that--my age, for instance?" And guess what--I got right in line with Calysta and Maycn. What a BLAST for me--from my power chair (which I use for this type of all day event to get around in)--to crawling on the huge air-filled trampoline.<br /><br />My attendant asked, "Have you ever done this before?"<br />"Never! But I'm soooo excited!"<br /><br />I even did flips! You can see me doing so by clicking <a href="http://www.jofranz.com/audiovideo/audiovideo.html">here</a>! It's the video at the top called "Just for Fun - Jo Trampoline Bungee Flipping". Every opportunity to have an adventure is absolutely amazing for me. I laughed so hard I could barely jump. As I flipped backwards I felt so many joints and muscles crying out I knew I'd regret it, but I didn't care.<br /><br />My poor husband hadn't wanted me to do it because of my cervical spinal cord injury in 1994 and neck problems ever since. He could see me breaking my neck. And, to be honest when I watched the entire video, I barely made one back flip. But as he video taped me he cheered me on, yelling this and that. He said all of the adults around him were cheering me on and looking envious.<br /><br />I'm reminded that Jesus said to come to him as a little child. He wants our lives to be filled with child-like faith and wonder and his love that overflows into our hearts cheering us on to the best abundant life he has purposed for us. Do I have limitations with MS that make life difficult? You bet. But I have such love flowing into me from Jesus I shout with joy at seeing my granddaughters roll in the grass. I want to always be child-like.<br /><br />How about you? What can you do today to be child-like with wide-eyed wonder?<br /><br />Jo<br /><br />PS You can also see lots of fun things I've done and places I've been <a href="http://www.jofranz-inspirationalspeaker.com/adventurephotos.html">here</a>! You can watch the same video at the bottom of the page!Jo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-35927647493229338452009-07-01T14:56:00.000-07:002009-07-01T15:35:19.960-07:00A Ruptured Appendix Can Be An OpportunityIt took me much longer to get to this than I'd expected. Having two surgeries within 13 days took it out of me and I've been recovering slowly--and now surely.<br /><br />After coming home from Joseph, Oregon after the wonderful opportunity to share with ladies from Baker City about how we can be friends to those in need, I was tired but extremely fulfilled. We had a great time and my husband who drove me had a great time as well--he needed a break and got it while I "worked"! <br /><br />But only two days later I felt ill, the following day I felt worse, and on Friday May 8 I told Ray he needed to take me to the doctor. My own was out that day so the new physician I saw asked Ray if the pain that had me doubled over was common. He said he'd never seen me this way before (and I've had a lot of pain with a cervical spinal cord injury--thankfully I've forgotten how bad some of that was). She said, "Go immediately, straight to the ER! I'll call ahead to get you in front of others!" <br /><br />We're so thankful to her, I have taken the energy to write her a letter of thanks. The surgeon I saw said the CAT scan revealed a need to check out my appendix and abdomen, so I had surgery about 1:30 am. My appendix had burst and I had a drain to remove infectious toxins. One of the worst affects though was the "ileus," a result of anesthesia making the gastro-intestinal track go to sleep! Which means, you can't have anything but ice cubes until something wakes up! Hence, I was in the hospital eight days.<br /><br />On my sixth day there we had a fire in our garage which my husband put out himself, braving blinding black smoke to open the doors by hand and find the source. Nothing like adding more stress to his life! The garage was covered in oily black residue since it was an electrical fire--he was charging a radio control battery for his airplanes and the charger shorted out! Apart from his job, the cleanup with professional crews has consumed his time.<br /><br />Now home, I began running a low grade fever and eventually went back to the ER on Memorial Day, May 25. I had two abscesses due to the rupture. I won't go into the surgery I had to drain this . . . to say it would gross some out is an understatement! This time I was in the hospital another eight days!<br /><br />I've been recovering ever since, and in this past week I've seen a marked change in how my energy level has been growing. I am back to doing some of my exercises! My neurologist said last week--with much relief and happiness due to all my body has been through--that I haven't progressed with the MS since he last saw me. YEAH!<br /><br />How does one see all this as an opportunity? Well, for me, every hospitalization has been an opportunity to share my hope and faith with nurses and doctors and other personnel I would never have had the opportunity to meet otherwise. The stories I could tell about seeing a smile spread when I simply said a genuine "Thank you" abound. Listening to nurses tell their own stories and being able to encourage them, or as was the case one time actually say, "You did all you could" as I looked into a face filled with despair and guilt and watch that beautiful face relax and tears fill her eyes, made <span style="font-style:italic;">my</span> day. Then there was the student nurse I got to encourage before her professor and her training nurse--what joy that brought me! I was saddened to learn many patients are belligerent and even mean! <br /><br />Would I have preferred to not have gone through all this? Definitely a big "Yep!" as our granddaughter would say. But I would not have had the blessings I did in being kind to others or experiencing the blessings of others providing meals, praying, and being available when Ray had to leave town for three days during my recovery. Nor would I have had the opportunities to encourage my husband in certain ways as he did me.<br /><br />Even a ruptured appendix can be an adventure with living!<br /><br />To every adventure! <br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-64021750474888175272009-06-05T14:21:00.000-07:002009-06-05T14:23:20.869-07:00Emergency Surgery and MoreJust after I wrote my last post about going to Joseph Oregon to speak/sing for a retreat I had emergency surgery on a ruptured appendix. Since then I have spent more time in the hospital than out. I hope to write a full post next week. <br /><br />Have a great weekend!<br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-60284417243848103052009-04-26T15:18:00.000-07:002009-04-27T08:44:04.067-07:00Going to The ShackYou've heard about the novel, <span style="font-style:italic;">The Shack</span>, and perhaps you've read it. I was dubious until I saw William P. Young, the author, speaking about his life and why he wrote the novel. I was in tears. <br /><br />Now I know people who hated this book, and I know people who loved it. I'm not sure there are many in between.<br /><br />I am one who loved it. I love it when a book takes God out of "the box" people try to put him in.<br /><br />Did you know that the place where Paul Young has set his story is real? There is a Joseph, Oregon, and there is a Wallowa Lake where the tragedy occurs.<br /><br />Well, this coming Thursday my husband is driving me to Wallowa Lake where I will be speaking for a women's retreat Friday through Sunday. I will share my topic "Friends, the Silver Lining in Difficult Times," which is based on a song I wrote for the amazing people who lifted and carried me places in Israel I would never have experienced without their help. We were working together on an archaeological excavation team. I can hardly wait to speak to these wonderful women I've communicated with, and I can hardly wait to see some of the sites I have imagined in my mind while reading <span style="font-style:italic;">The Shack</span>.<br /><br />I've always been this way. After reading historical fiction I could hardly wait to see Andrew Jackson's home "The Hermitage" in Nashville, Tennessee. It met my every expectation. And since I've seen photos now of the area where I'll speak I know it will do so as well.<br /><br />I hope if you've been afraid to read this book you'll take a risk and see what it's about. And let me know what you thought of it if you've already read it. I'll let you know what I think of the area the author describes after my weekend away!<br /><br />I'm stopping for now--I spoke this morning and am a little tired.<br /><br />Have a great week!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-41837941115218536032009-04-15T16:32:00.000-07:002009-04-15T16:45:58.995-07:00Taking Care of MeDo you find yourself overdoing easily? When I have a "good" day, do I ever want to get going on things! I've been blessed to feel good for awhile after the MS siege of bad symptoms last summer. And so I've been out there speaking, singing, recently writing a new book that I'll have available to sell in a couple weeks . . . and that's not all! <br /><br />I had a book signing scheduled last Saturday and when I called the store manager on Friday I needed to ask for a rain check. She loves having me any time I want to come in and I love doing it--connecting with new people at the store--getting my memoir into more hands. But I had been working and going so strong with a lot coming up I knew I had to take care of me! Fortunately, this wasn't a paying gig, because I never cancel those unless it's drastic. Rae understood and said, "Take care of yourself. Whenever you want to come in, just let me know."<br /><br />That's why I haven't written a blog either. I've been so busy, just taking time to catch you up on life had to be put on the back burner. I'll be out speaking weekly for the next month but I'll try to write again soon.<br /><br />What do you do to take care of you? (Trying to be cute here, not the writer.) Read a book? Just sit in the sun? (We haven't seen much of that in the Pacific Northwest!) Eat ice cream? Uh, oh. I'm getting hungry thinking about that one.<br /><br />I hope you're taking care of yourself--whatever that means. I know when I overdo it affects everyone around me.<br /><br />Let me know what you do when you take care of you--write a post! <br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-24088043188060208162009-03-01T14:16:00.000-08:002009-03-01T14:31:54.221-08:00When I "Get" to HelpLast week I wrote about accepting help and today I'd like to share what a blessing it is to me when I <em>get</em> to help others. <br /><br />I simply love encouraging other people. It comes through when I am speaking about some topic or especially sharing my life story, singing with all my heart, or just listening to someone's problems. <br /><br />It also happens when I "peer counsel" someone with MS. I was in the first training class for certified peer counselors in the Denver area in 1984. What a privilege to share the hope and even simple steps to take that can begin making life with multiple sclerosis better, fuller, and more of a daily adventure than a grind. (Which it certainly can be!)<br /><br />But this past December I got to help our neighbors. In our part of the US it began snowing on December 18 and didn't stop for ten days. Now, we didn't get many feet of snow like the Midwest does, but for our elderly neighbors across the street it was dangerous. The snowfall that covered the drive and sidewalks and street was enough to keep them home bound. It wasn't safe for them to walk to the mailboxes. <br /><br />When I first called Maxine we chatted about the beautiful white mantle draping everything while it floated from the sky and then I offered Ray's help in getting the mail. This began a daily routine of my calling to see what they needed and Ray getting the privilege of following through. Yes, I would have been delighted to walk in the snow to the mailbox and even clean off their driveway with Ray, but at least I could do this one thing--call and chat and be the go-between. <br /><br />Maxine and Keith were certainly grateful, but Ray and I commented on Christmas that helping them had made the holiday even more special for us. Our girls and grandchildren live out of state and we had visited at Thanksgiving so we were alone. Our hearts swelled with joy at being able to assist as well as lighten their days with laughter and conversation.<br /><br />We "got to" help and so I know how my friends must feel when they "get to" help me.<br />Next week I have the opposite outlook . . .<br /><br />To finding someone each of us can help this coming week no matter our circumstances!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-55217208975852238692009-02-18T10:52:00.000-08:002009-03-01T14:16:00.217-08:00I'd Rather Do It Myself--But I'll Accept the HelpHave you decided you're open to help? So many of us have a "I want to do it myself" attitude. It's like we're children who never grew up. <br /><br />Now don't get me wrong. I'd still rather do it myself than need help, but since I've discovered I can't make it without assistance to do certain things, I've decided to enjoy the process.<br /><br />Last week I spoke on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday--all in different cities! In the first place, I only drive locally due to the fatigue of MS on my muscles used to turn the wheel and push on the gas and brake. (The entire body fatigues out when I overuse one strong muscle that is taking over for the weak ones. I am incredibly grateful that I can drive even locally though, since I lost all ability to drive for two and a half years in the early 1980's.)<br /><br />This means I needed a driver to even do these speaking/singing engagements. And my friend Lynda is indeed a <em>helper extraordinaire</em> because her spirit is all about meeting my needs! She drives with such ease we missed our first exit on Monday because we were chatting away! She removes my power chair from our van with skill after doing it many times. (I walk in our house balancing off furniture and walls and use my cool-aids for short distances, but prefer my power chair when I speak within driving distance--instead of flying somewhere--so I am more independent. There's that "I'd rather do it myself attitude again! GRIN)<br /><br />Lynda hauls into each venue all we'll need, never griping or upset by less than ideal situations. And handling my book and CD sales after I've shared my program is a breeze for Lynda while I am autographing books and speaking to people. <br /><br />When we arrive at our host's house Lynda thinks nothing of meeting my every "Would you please..." with a smile or she responds "I could do that in a while when I'm going out..." Because she's secure enough to suggest alternatives I never feel I should watch out for what I am asking Lynda to do. She just shows such a spirit of service I want to hug her!<br /><br />And then there were our hosts, Cathy and Rick. Without being willing to have us for THREE nights in a row I wouldn't have accepted this tour of cities. And because they were such down home people, while trying to meet our every need, we felt totally comfortable for those days. Rick was the handy-man we needed for my power chair when the mushroom hand guide got out of place and he was always ready to meet other needs and Cathy worked deliciously with my "no salt" diet and perfectly with my "no scent" sheets, keeping me in just the shape I like to be in. We've made friendships we hope to renew later. (Rick and my husband Ray are both Marines who fought in Vietnam... once a Marine always a Marine.)<br /><br />At each event helpers abounded and though I have my own way of doing things I've learned to do my best to go with the flow and accept their own ways of operating--that way we are all accommodated in the ebb and flow of give and take.<br /><br />Yes, there is that pull to do it all myself still within me, but oh, the joy I experience from the help of others. And the blessing they receive in return for assisting me. It's a win-win situation.<br /><br />To a week of letting others help us and blessing them with the joy of meeting our needs, or having the privilege to assist them!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-82790520517407031162009-02-01T14:47:00.000-08:002009-02-01T15:32:04.020-08:00It All Depends On Your OutlookLast week I promised to share with you various responses I had to my "The Good Life" TV interview that aired the week of January 4-12 (and beyond in re-runs according to continued feedback I am getting.)<br /><br />Let me begin with Teresa. She called to say she really enjoyed the program and wanted to know about my "Soar Unafraid Ministries" because she wanted to assist me in any way she can. To say I was blessed is an understatement--because Teresa is only 33 years old and she has lived in the current nursing care facility for two years and another for four years before that due to the multiple sclerosis she battles. It touched me to tears to know her situation. But Teresa wasn't griping, just stating the facts. She told me how she had just learned to transfer from her bed to wheelchair on her own that very day as she is working to become stronger and live alone again. <br /><br />Teresa didn't call to bring me down with her situation. Teresa called to tell me she wanted to minister with me. PAUSE. THINK DEEPLY.<br /><br />Teresa had not one hint of "poor me" in her voice. She was excited to know she could minister with me through prayer. She was excited to be able to take that big step of transferring on her own.<br /><br />I vowed then and there to help <em>Teresa</em> in any way I could. I called Steve from CTN who had taxied me here and there because he had told me he is a pastor. Come to find out their church is in the same town as Teresa's! Next time Teresa and I spoke she was going to their church if she found a ride. Please pray with me this all works out for her. Pray she is strengthened every day. <br /><br />Moving on, I received several emails and calls from others who wanted to tell their stories and they wanted a word of encouragement, which I tried to give as best I could for their individual situations that were heart-breaking. But what I heard in return was something akin to bitterness creeping into their words about wanting to be close to God. I know how very hard it is not to go there when we're hurting. My journey to keep myself from doing so is shared in my memoir <em>Soar Unafraid: Learning to Trust No Matter What</em>. <br /><br />I heard from others like Esther who has a sad story but she came right around to her life based in her belief that God Lives, and he will lead her on as she, too, works to improve her life and situation. She, too, asked what she could do for <em>me</em>!<br /><br />When I told Teresa during our latest conversation that I was telling people about her precious attitude and outlook she responded, "It's only Christ in me. On my own I'd be very sad." How true that is for any of us! I know it is for me in all struggles that come my way. MS is hardly the only thing I deal with. When I asked an audience before whom I spoke last Friday, "How many of you have had something unexpected happen to you in this past year?" everyone raised a hand!<br /><br />I hope these differing attitudes give you some interesting things to think about. A woman who recently signed up for my newsletter wrote after receiving the Freebies that come with it: "Your list is amazing and fun......causes one to 'recalculate.'" If you'd like to recalculate your life, go to my <a href="http://www.jofranz.com">website</a> and sign up--it's free!<br /><br />Have a great week! (I'll be speaking Monday-Thursday next week so my post will be late again...)<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-12201090530561280362009-01-15T15:20:00.000-08:002009-01-15T16:52:40.441-08:00Winner Announced and the Trek StoryLast week I announced a contest with the winner receiving a free autographed copy of my memoir <em>Soar Unafraid: Learning to Trust No Matter What</em> as the prize. <br /><br />Mary Morgan is the winner!<br /><br />Mary wrote that she watched The Good Life TV interview live at ctnonline.com. She said in her email, "You did a great job in the interview! I love the name you came up with your crutches--"Cool Aids"--that is so clever. You are quite the adventurer--skiing, horse packing trips, etc. I really enjoyed hearing your story. Hopefully lots of people saw the show and the publicity helps you sell lots of books." <br /><br />Thanks, Mary for writing such encouraging words to me. We're shipping the book to you right away.<br /><br />I need to share with Mary and the rest of you how the name "cool aids" came about. While I was single I took a wonderful trip with a dear friend, Ruth, and her three children. (The Peters family adopted me, so to speak, and we are close to this day.) Well, we five were hiking in the Petrified Forest in Arizona when teenage David said, "You really get around." I told him it was because of my aids (forearm crutches). He dubbed them "Cool-aids" at that moment and the name has stuck.<br /><br />I promised last week to tell about the long trek I took getting to Florida to do the TV interview in Clearwater (near Tampa). I had sent my book and media kit last spring in 2007 to the show producer and fortunately she didn't contact me requesting an interview during the summer because the MS hit me hard and I wasn't in any shape to even go out of the house let alone fly by myself anywhere. (This was another of those times when you know God is working all things together for the good as Romans 8:28 says because we were praying CTN would contact me and fortunately they didn't when we asked, but in God's perfect timing!)<br /><br />In early November I was contacted for the interview to be taped live on Tuesday, December 16. She booked my flight--the only one available from Portland, Oregon (we live 30 minutes north of there in Washington state) to Tampa for Monday, December 16. I literally had to get up at 2:30 am in order to get to the airport at the check-in time. UGH. I went to bed at 8:30 pm Sunday night and awoke alert and praising God, singing while I applied makeup. <br /><br />When I fly I use my portable wheelchair with cushions that are removable. Airport skycab push me between terminals and the airline personnel take out the cushions for me to use in the airplane because they're much more comfortable than the airplane seat and I can handle the flights better. My wheelchair is then taken into the cargo hold and brought back to me when the plane passengers have departed.<br /><br />The ONLY possible flight stopped in Denver and then Chicago before arriving in Tampa eight real-time-hours after it began (not including time changes). That is a long day for me. <br /><br />But the great thing was the people I got to talk with for 8 hours. The eleven year old who wanted me to read the story she was writing, and then a poem, and she was so excited because I was an author. She was traveling between parents who live on opposite coasts . . . And so many others . . .<br /><br />A nice guy who works for CTN picked me up at the airport and drove me to the hotel after offering me dinner which I turned down. I just wanted to eat my almonds and high energy Kashi bar and go to bed, which I did by 8:30 pm EST after calling home to my hubby! <br /><br />Steve picked me up again in the morning to take me to CTN's studio where we did the live interview within 45 minutes. One take and the producer excitedly handed me the DVD so we can upload the program to my website (it's in the process of being added this week.) She had told me before taping they like to do it live as much as is possible and she cried as she hugged me, "That was great! Perfect! Well-worth you flying across the country!"<br /><br />Then I chatted warmly with the program host's assistant Stephanie (who had read my memoir and recommended I be asked as a guest) for perhaps an hour. Steve then took me back to the Tampa airport and I began the long trek home via Denver this time. I arrived at 10 pm PST to my husband's big hug and kiss.<br /><br />On the way back I had the most wonderful conversations with people about their lives and why I was making this long round trip in only two days. Everyone has unexpected things happen in their lives, not just me, and their stories, our shared laughter and tears will remain with me for years if not till I die. <br /><br />The trek was definitely worth it and ordained by God. Emails and phone calls have blessed me richly as well as book orders. I am touched because I believe my memoir--due to responses I have received--IS impacting lives and that is why I wrote it.<br /><br />Some thoughts next week about some responses I received . . .<br /><br />Hope your week is full of wonderful treks--even if they are only in your dreams. (I have a lot of fun dream treks and I dream BIG!)<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-76209575374463457832009-01-02T15:06:00.000-08:002009-01-02T15:57:34.221-08:00Contest!Everyone loves a freebie, I've been told. Well, I've never hosted a contest before, but I am beginning 2009 by doing so!<br /><br />Anyone who posts a comment after viewing a TV program on which I will be appearing Friday evening (this coming Friday, January 9) will be eligible for a <strong>FREE AUTOGRAPHED</strong> copy of my award-winning memoir <em>Soar Unafraid: Learning to Trust No Matter What!</em> <br /><br />The program to watch is "The Good Life" on CTN at 9 pm EST. You can find CTN on DIRECTV channel 376 and DISH Network channel 267. You can also go to <a href="http://www.ctnonline.com/schedules/">this</a> to check out various markets where it is showing or you can watch it online.<br /><br />On January 12-16 I will announce the winner who will be drawn randomly from those who post comments or email me from my newsletter we are sending out on Monday. Anything you'd like to share about what you learned, something you thought was funny or an "ah-ha" moment, just so long as you're not totally negative will be accepted. We will ship my book to the winner at our expense as well.<br /><br />And next week I will share the amazing story of how I got and from to Tampa, FL to shoot the live taping on December 16. Considering the fact that I was so weakened by the MS last summer, it's quite a story.<br /><br />Here's hoping you make time to watch and enjoy "The Good Life" Friday January 9!<br /><br />Have a great first week of the new year!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-62340752788820914692008-12-23T15:24:00.000-08:002008-12-24T13:05:32.737-08:00Christmas versus Happy HolidaysSnows blankets our trees, walks, streets and land, and its beauty hasn't ceased to amaze me since it began falling a week ago. We must have had over 12 inches fall since Wednesday along with layers of freezing ice in between the inches of snow. Since the Portland, Oregon/southwestern Washington area doesn't get lots of snowfall we love it! (And since I grew up in Colorado I love it as well.)<br /><br />I do know that snow does not make for a wonderful Christmas. I've been to the birth place of Jesus--Bethlehem, Israel, and it rarely snows there either. So, I doubt it snowed on the eve or day of his birth, though it's possible.<br /><br />For me, this time of year is Christmas--Christ/mas--the celebration of Jesus Christ's birth (though the date being accurate is irrelevant to me). This means I say, "Have a Merry Christmas" or "Have a blessed Christmas" not "Happy Holidays"!<br /><br />I experienced two hours of MRIs (done annually due to the MS) two weeks ago, and when I was finished in the banging tube (TV does NOT do an MRI justice, you feel like you're in a war zone!) I told the technicians "Merry Christmas!" I was told, "Thanks! We don't get much of that." We talked about being "politically correct" and I said I am "politically incorrect!"<br /><br />I want to wish you a Merry Christmas full of God's blessings. I wish you would put aside waiting to know about Jesus if you've been doing so--he has been my hope and joy since 1972--and I can't imagine life without his peace flooding my soul.<br /><br />And if you want it . . . I hope you get snow as well!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-84175475676509479342008-12-02T15:00:00.000-08:002008-12-02T15:33:50.331-08:00Trampled on Black FridayWere you as appalled and saddened as I was to hear that a clerk was trampled on "Black Friday"? I used to wonder where the name "Black Friday" came from and now it appears to have lived up to its name.<br /><br />What has happened in our society that makes people not reach down to extend a hand to someone who has tripped in the rush of shoppers, yet alone is trampled upon? How selfish does one have to become to get angry when the store is closed for a time due to this person's demise? What needs to change in order for us to care about others more than the purchase of a plasma TV?<br /><br />My heart goes out to the family of the clerk. This is what they will remember every Thanksgiving from now on. <br /><br />I've never been one of the frantic B.F. shoppers. It's not because I don't relish a good deal. It's because with MS I can't imagine placing myself in that crowd. Since I use a power chair to shop in malls to save energy (though I walk with forearm crutches) Christmas shopping is enough of a challenge simply because the isles between racks of clothing or items are barely navigational if not impassable with my chair, and that's without the crowds.<br /><br />If I were one of the B.F. shoppers I would like to think I would try to act courteously towards any individual. I know when I'm fatigued I can get cranky like anyone else and I have been known to apologize to clerks for being short and ungrateful. I just can't fathom plowing physically over the top of someone without noticing!<br /><br />There is a proverb that says "An unfriendly man pursues selfish ends" (Proverbs 18:1). And to me, this is exemplified selfishness--me first, "I want what I want no matter what" thinking and actions that followed.<br /><br />I hope this was a wake up call to many who will be shopping.<br /><br />To kindness in and out of the stores this Christmas shopping season!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-79150392858204687002008-11-13T11:25:00.000-08:002008-11-13T12:05:51.916-08:00Thankful?Well, the election has passed, the hug-bub is gradually ceasing, and yet we have many things we can still fret over, don't we? Ray and I continually take hits on our 401K, how about you? Has your stress level been elevated? It's difficult not to "go there," which means downhill in our thoughts. It is so easy to focus on all the negative, isn't it?<br /><br />Having lived with unpredictable MS since 1977 has sort of prepared me for this time in our lives. I never completely have security about my health. I know I could become more disabled at any time no matter how much exercise, good eating habits, and MS drug treatments I adhere to.<br /><br />I was telling a class of first graders about my symptoms of MS one time, when a precocious little guy raised his hand to ask, "Does <em>anything</em> in your body work right?" I laughed out loud! Of course many things in my body worked right, but this little guy thought the worst from my presentation.<br /><br />Ever since then, whenever I go to a doctor and I hear something good--about my blood pressure, blood work, results of a test--I think (or say aloud) <em>something in my body works right!</em><br /><br />And I've applied this principle to my entire life. When the MS is bad, with symptoms crashing in on me, I can always find something for which to be thankful--I can see, I can speak, I can write. If one of those is gone at the time, I can be thankful for something different. Paul wrote the people in the church at Ephesus "always giving thanks to God the Father for everything" (Ephesians 5:20).<br /><br />We can practice this in all of life. So our 401Ks are dwindling, do we have health to be thankful for? Our health is bad, do we have family (or just one person) who cares about us? Our children are angry with us? Do we have hope they will mature and we can be thankful for that?<br /><br />Get my drift? There is <em>always</em> something for which we can be thankful. And thankfulness makes our problems less overwhelming. It can even take our mind off the situation that is bothering us for awhile.<br /><br />I recommend we all begin looking for things we can be grateful for. Once we start, we'll soon have a growing list and life looks a lot better!<br /><br />To being thankful!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-37427236471373398982008-11-02T15:30:00.000-08:002008-11-02T15:42:00.737-08:00Vote and Exclaim at the Beauty of FallI know you've heard this so many times you're tired of it, but I urge you to vote before or on Tuesday. No matter who you are voting for, don't believe pollsters. Your vote counts and matters!<br /><br />Sorry you haven't heard from me in awhile. I've been balancing too many plates to write and thought I should prioritize to keep healthy and calm. Especially during this time of watching highly volatile campaigning and Stock Market swings.<br /><br />Yes, like you, we have taken a huge hit to my husband's 401K--yikes!<br /><br />We have so much to be grateful for though--our health, home, family and friends. And have you been watching fall explode like we have? I exclaim so often every day at God's amazing creation! This is a favorite time of year for me when the colors are unmatched by any painter's palate.<br /><br />My speaking opportunity blessed me to no end with people telling me how touched they were by what I sensed God wanted me to share. I can't tell you what a blessing it is to be used as his instrument of change in the lives of others because of sharing God's Word--the Bible--and how it relates to our lives.<br /><br />Anyway, I hope you're doing well, friend. More soon!<br /><br />Have a great day!<br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-41783050058719503712008-10-08T15:29:00.000-07:002008-10-08T15:54:48.310-07:00Telling the TruthA lot of us are discouraged by the apparent ease with which people are lying these days--whether they be in the halls of our government, those running for office, on Wall Street, at our places of work or school.<br /><br />I am preparing a talk to be given in a week where I'll discuss this a bit, so it's been on my mind quite a lot lately--let alone if I turn on any newscast. What so many of us don't seem to understand is we help to create this in a new generation in our own homes when we say on the phone, "He's not here right now" about our husband so he won't have to speak to the person. Or we say it for our daughter who doesn't want to talk to a certain guy. What we are doing is teaching our children that it is okay to lie rather than tell the truth kindly. <br /><br />And our actions speak loudly.<br /><br />This has been a growing problem for years in our schools--relativity regarding right and wrong--"It all depends on the circumstances, you know." President Clinton confirmed the confusion in students minds when he stated, "I did NOT have sex with her (Monica Lewinsky)! Not only was it okay for him to lie, but now teens weren't sure what constituted sex.<br /><br />Yet this is nothing new. When God asked Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden why they were hiding after feeling totally comfortable in his presence they didn't take responsibility until they felt cornered.<br /><br />I want to live by the truth in all things--no matter how ugly and uncomfortable it may make me. The Apostle John wrote, "But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God" (John 3:21). By God's strength and in his power we can live this way.<br /><br />To being truthful--!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-92119348475284958742008-09-29T15:46:00.000-07:002008-09-29T16:12:24.387-07:00Life in Limbo?Sorry for being so long in posting. Life has been busy for me. How about you? Is it busy or do you feel like you're in limbo waiting for the government to decide what they're going to do with your hard-earned dollars? Waiting for your 401K to plummet farther down in value? Waiting to see if the economy can make it "at all" if we're to listen to the media doomsayers.<br /><br />I am learning along with my husband Ray that all things are known by God and because we love him and are called according to his purposes he will work ALL, yes ALL things together for our good (Romans 8:28). It may not seem like it as we have lost so much of our 401K but he promises this and we've learned we can believe him.<br /><br />We learned it when Ray was out of work six years ago and we didn't know what would happen. He was offered a job, we rented our new house here in Washington state near Portland, Oregon, and we were moved to Salt Lake City, Utah for 11 months. We weren't in limbo, we took life as it came and it turned into such an incredibly fun and interesting time for us, we wouldn't have traded the adventure for the peace he could have had otherwise.<br /><br />We learned it when I tumbled head-first down an entire flight of stairs and couldn't feel a thing from my excruciatingly painful neck down. I cried out loud, "God help me!" and had searing pain down my arms and hands and tingling from the waist down. I could move my legs and knew I wasn't paralyzed by God's grace. I should have died or been a quadriplegic according to the doctors. Yes, I had a long recovery learning to stand and walk again only to have three MS attacks put me back in a wheelchair, but God was ever-present and so precious. I wasn't in limbo, I was growing in God's and Ray's love and sharing with people I would never have met if I hadn't fallen.<br /><br />During this seemingly awful time of limbo, lets ask God what he'd like us to learn. Let's look at things that seem frightening and ask, "What can I do or think in order to be less insecure." As we remind ourselves that God loves us with an everlasting love we will be less likely to fret. <br /><br />To living <em>today</em> instead of living in limbo!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-21195690696760423122008-09-15T14:46:00.000-07:002008-09-15T15:41:35.410-07:00Making FriendsA woman from New York named Maureen listened to the archived talk I gave on helping those who help us on blogtalkradio.com during National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week and she wrote me with a most interesting question.<br /><br />During the interview I had talked about a woman who asked, "How are you?" I had answered, "Do you really want to know?" and she turned to walk away as she said, "Not really." I was stunned. I had said that because I was becoming unsure of how honest I should be since most seemed to want to hear, "I'm fine."<br /><br />I then described how it is helpful to have a friend who tries to understand our difficulties due to our illness. The kind of friend who will ask, care, and occasionally help us when we're in need. Maureen asked how we find that kind of friend. She said she's moved around a lot and doesn't have a good support system. I can relate because Ray and I have moved around some as well and I have wanted friends wherever we lived.<br /><br />I'd like to share how I have made this kind of friend. The first thing I do is ask God to make me a friend to someone who needs and wants what I can give, and I ask him to bring people into my life that will do the same. I don't leave it there though. I attend a local Bible women's study or one at the church we attend because I've made friends in this kind of setting before. <br /><br />When I am in the small group of this Bible study where we're asked to share about ourselves I am vulnerable about having an illness (MS) that makes life challenging at times. I also tell how God is working in my life because of it. This oftentimes causes someone to come up to me with compassion or a similar health concern.<br /><br />If this happens, or I sense God is leading me to reach out to a certain person, I put myself out by asking that woman to meet me for coffee or lunch, or to come over to my house for coffee. Since the only way to really have a friendship is to be a friend, I want to be a good listener and show I care. As we get to know each other I learn more about how to meet her needs--which may only be to listen, it's a valuable gift we all need--and I share more about my own difficulties. <br /><br />Then, if I need someone's help I take a risk and ask her if she can meet it--drive me somewhere or push my wheelchair in a mall to help me Christmas shop. I never know when someone will desire to get a blessing by helping me without asking them. I've made several friends who were just looking for someone to help because it gave them a purpose. When I asked they jumped at the chance and we developed a wonderful relationship because of it.<br /><br />I'd enjoy any feedback you have to this blog topic!<br /><br />To making new friends . . .!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-73137247651570038522008-09-10T11:55:00.000-07:002008-09-10T12:18:48.111-07:00People Around the WorldLisa and I had a great time during my blogtalkradio interview yesterday. I love interacting with people after I speak to an audience, at a book signing, anywhere actually!<br /><br />Sandra called in from England at midnight her time to share how she is encouraged by praise music. I so relate. As Sandra put it so aptly, God inhabits the praises of his people, and when we praise him our hearts are comforted and rise above our circumstances. (On another note, it was fun to discuss my traveling to England alone using forearm crutches. She knew where I had stayed with "me English mum" for a week!)<br /><br />I'm sorry that I didn't get the woman's name who called in and talked vulnerably about those who help her due to her MS. She also gave pearls of wisdom for the listening audience as she gratefully told about a friend who drove her three hours to her neurologist appointment--what a sacrifice of time! And another friend who took her shopping. I have had friends do both of these things and I know how precious they are.<br /><br />No matter where we live around the world--which is much smaller than we realize when we look at a globe or map--we have common needs and desires. We appreciate the needed help of friends and our hearts are lifted by praise to God.<br /><br />I apologize for having the wrong phone call in phone number listed. I didn't know it had been changed. If you'd like to call in today, Thursday or Friday, use the following number: (347) 202-0072. You can click on the link to the right to check out the schedule of talks.<br /><br />May each of us be a friend to those in need . . . Have a great day!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-69393693632517463042008-09-08T12:07:00.000-07:002008-09-08T12:23:18.969-07:00Invisible Illness WeekHello! Today is the beginning of National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week! Did you know that 96% of illnesses are invisible? Many start out that way--like MS--and develop into symtoms that others can see.<br /><br />Tomorrow, Tuesday, at 3 pm PST I will be speaking on http://www.blogttalkradio.com about how we can help those who help us. We'll talk about friends and family who assist us. Please join us by calling (347) 843-4271.<br /><br />Hope to hear from you tomorrow!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-91908619803110750302008-09-05T14:50:00.000-07:002008-09-05T15:26:33.884-07:00How to Help the Ones Who Help UsThis coming Monday is the start of National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week. I am proud and honored to be a part once again of this annual event. <br /><br />On Tuesday at 3 pm PST I will be speaking and answering questions about how we can help those who help us on blogtalkradio.com. You can click on the link to the right of this post in order to get to the NICIAW website and go directly to the scheduled talks.<br /><br />No matter what political party you belong or adhere to, or how you choose to vote, you may have heard or watched Senator McCain giving his acceptance speech last night. He said something to the effect that he was cocky until he spiraled to the ground from his plane into enemy hands where an angry crowd awaited him. He related that he became even more changed when he was put in a cell with two other prisoners who fed him because he couldn't himself.<br /><br />I relate this because his experience of being broken when he needed help is one that is universal to mankind. When we need the help of others to handle basic living all the strength and self reliance we depend upon is immediately depleted.<br /><br />And how we accept the help of others and incorporate it into our lives makes all the difference in how <em>they</em> feel about assisting us. Though I am usually, as I am now, able to do almost anything as long as I walk with forearm crutches, when I travel to speak across country I depend on others to assist me at events. I depend on people to drive me to speaking engagements as well, though I drive near home. How I ask for help, showing appreciation for and trying to understand how my helpers might feel regarding things, influences how we get along. When I need help in our home the assumptions I make and how I communicate my needs reinforces or depletes the relationship warmth we maintain among us.<br /><br />Jesus wasn't afraid to ask his disciples to accompany him in his time of need in the Garden of Gethsemane. He models for us behavior that often needs to be learned.<br /><br />How we help the ones who help us will be the basis of my talk on Tuesday. If this is something you'd like to explore, please join Lisa and me on blogtalkradio.com!<br /><br />Learning how to help others who help me . . . <br /><br />Have a great weekend!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-60626478772835781652008-08-26T15:38:00.000-07:002008-08-26T15:59:40.544-07:00Invisible or NotIn 1980 I wobbled with the help of two others into a pizza restaurant. <br /><br />A burly young man taunted, "What's a matter with her? Is she drunk?" loud enough for the entire clientele to turn and look at me.<br /><br />Hot tears of embarrasment stung my eyes. I wanted to disappear. I had used others' arms because my balance was so poor I feared I would look drunk, and now I'd been accused of it.<br /><br />At that time my symptoms of multiple sclerosis were <em>invisible</em> to others. Or so I thought until this accusation.<br /><br />In 1981 I was told to walk with forearm crutches to protect myself from falling and to give myself better coordination, and I have used them ever since. <br /><br />There are many illnesses whose symptoms are invisible, MS being one of them for many people. Especially the fatigue most of us endure. I'd like to draw your attention to an upcoming week that I have taken part in for the past two years. It's called National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week and it is this coming September 8-14. There you can find all kinds of telephone seminars, blog posts, freebies, events, and networking with people who understand the invisibleness of symptoms you may have. <br /><br />I'll be saying more about that in the future, but for now, invisible is not always better!<br /><br />Have a wonderful day!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-27116627026578672822008-08-14T12:47:00.000-07:002008-08-21T12:01:17.537-07:00Olympics Beauty?Enjoying the Olympics? We are. But what about the confession by the Chinese that the child singer "wasn't pretty enough" to be included in the opening ceremony, she had to lip synch for the one who appeared. <br /><br />I was appalled.<br /><br />I think both of the little girls are beautiful. How tragic for the one who really sang to be told this.<br /><br />Women have enough difficulties feeling beautiful. And children and teens must be carefully encouraged these days to sense their own uniqueness when comparisons are constantly made through the media. When perfection is so touted. When you must be this or that to be accepted.<br /><br />I want our granddaughter who is nine to know that she is so precious just as she is, and that she doesn't need to meet any standard of beauty. I had to teach myself to feel good about what I looked like and I want to build that in her so Calysta doesn't need to!<br /><br />God created us and he knew what form we would take while we were in the womb according to Psalm 139! "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." <br /><br />God doesn't create junk as someone said years ago!<br /><br />You are beautiful . . .<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5184545190094640597.post-29706093032558995542008-08-07T09:25:00.000-07:002008-08-07T09:58:30.349-07:00Leaping JoyfullyA doe and her fawn graced our backyard last week. The mother nuzzled her baby, licking her face and side. There was such tenderness in that moment. We never cease to feel joy when we get to watch God's wonderous creatures.<br /><br />It brought to mind the time a doe munched on the blackberries at the back of our property. She literally jumped straight up in the air, kicking her back feet in order to grasp the ripe berries on the top branches! The doe resembled our cat more than a deer!<br /><br />As I am overcoming this health crisis one day at a time I too am leaping joyfully. I enjoy the taste of lime tortilla chips one at a time. As I let the lime settle slowly into my taste buds on my tongue I close my eyes to enjoy the tangy delight.<br /><br />Homeade root beer floats with foam upper lips make me laugh. <br /><br />Bunnies in the yard munching green grass bring a smile to my face. And the shades of colors in the shrubbery and trees are vibrant and alive, causing my heart to swell with pleasure.<br /><br />The anticipation of our daughter Lins bringing her family to visit in a few weeks floods me with joy and I feel a leap in my spirit to recover quickly! (Of course I've never been one to let the MS keep me down. I am exercising to regain my strength anyway.) I think about seeing nine year old Calysta, four year old Maycn and eigth month old Ryenn for the first time and I just grin. <br /><br />I am looking forward to keeping speaking engagements this fall and traveling to Lagos, Nigeria to speak. The blessing of doing what I love brings another leap of joy in my heart.<br /><br />The Bible says "The Soverign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights" (Habakkuk 3:19). With God you and I can leap joyfully no matter what happens as we lean into his strength and trust him. <br /><br />I hope you are leaping this week!<br /><br />JoJo Franzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070074406340266233noreply@blogger.com0