Thoughts On God

Prayer changes things?

2011-09-07T05:14:00.000-04:00

"Prayer changes things." I've always contemplated on this passage and wondered about it compared to the other verses I have heard and things people say about God and His sovereign will. No, I will not be solving this issue anytime soon, I am glad we cannot figure out this amazing God & His ways! But sit and think about it for a minute. . .

Reading in 2 Samuel about Moses, I am in awe of the way he reasons with God about not wiping out all of the people because of their complaining and lack of commitment to Him. He does this several times for them.

It's funny because when I read these passages I think, "Dang! Why don't they get it? They have witnessed numerous, amazing miracles and still they beg to go back to Egypt & slavery!" Then the second thought that enters my mind. . ."Oh, yeah, we are all the same today just different scenery." (hang head in shame). . .

Why can't we be more like Moses? How great to be able to enter the throne room and say, "God, they know we serve You, so if you annihilate us, that won't look very good for Who You are to all of these other people! Can you give us another chance?" Mercy.

My spiritual gift is Mercy. I can identify with mercy. It defines alot of what I do. God's mercy is even greater!

I used to do this for my children when they were in trouble. I would go to my husband, who is very black & white on issues of discipline and beg for them to be given another chance. He couldn't see my heart that it begged for Mercy, he thought I just didn't want to deal with the issue. I couldn't see his heart that he wasn't just being mean, he was trying to lead them in the right way. God could see straight into Moses heart. He knew him, talked with him "as man speaks with his friend".

That is the key part here. Moses spent many hours in the throne room of heaven seeking, begging, confessing, listening, talking, adoring. The God of the Universe wants to be that intimate with us! How humbling and exciting all at the same time!

Prayer. . .an avenue straight to God. He sees our hearts, He hears our thoughts, He desires us to be that close! Good thing is there is no manipulating Him. . .just reality.

Dealing with a tough issue?
Struggling?
Hurting?
Angry?
Grieving?
Happy?
Lonely?
Sick?
Betrayed?

Go to a quiet place, turn off all distractions, fall on your face & seek His face! Don't know what to pray? that's ok He sees your heart, knows your mind. . .let Him in and He will love you through whatever it is! And He knows, it might just change something!

Good Morning Father!

2010-09-12T08:34:00.000-04:00

Several of the past mornings I awoke with a prayerful heart. . .thinking of my family and what the future holds for each of them. . . for my friends that have been on my mind and are dealing with issues. . .I am so thankful that I can talk to my Heavenly Father about each of them and know He is listening and He cares and loves them. Below is one of my favorite songs by Phil Wickham. . .

YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL

I see Your face in every sunrise

The colors of the morning are inside Your eyes

The world awakens in the light of the day

I look up to the sky and say

You're beautiful

I see Your power in the moonlit night

Where planets are in motion and galaxies are bright

We are amazed in the light of the stars

It's all proclaiming who You are

You're beautiful, You're beautiful

I see You there hanging on a tree

You bled and then You died and then You rose again for me

Now You are sitting on Your heavenly throne

Soon we will be coming home

You're beautiful, You're beautiful

When we arrive at eternity's shore

Where death is just a memory and tears are no more

We'll enter in as the wedding bells ring

Your bride will come together and we'll sing

You're beautiful
I see Your face,

You're beautiful, You're beautiful, You're beautiful

I see Your face,

You're beautiful, You're beautiful, You're beautiful

I see Your face,

I see Your face

I see Your face,

You're beautiful, You're beautiful, You're beautiful

Phil Wickham from the Album CANNONS

Thoughts from the day. . .

2010-09-09T20:47:00.000-04:00

Been contemplating coversations & thoughts from the day. . .

To me being OPEN to what God wants for me is something I have always been ready for, except for the past year or so. . . .I have fought it tooth and nail. . .He has been so patient with me and loved me through this rebelious time I have been in. Thankfully HE is more gracious than I and much more ready to forgive me and draw me back to Him than I am to others. . .working through that. . .He also knows my weakenesses.

God has placed YOU, my friend, in my life to show me that being HIS is not an option. He chose me, not me HIM. I am His child and I want to be where HE wants me. . .seriously that does not matter where, because where He has planned is so much better than where I fight to be on my own.

Even the thought of loosing this precious man He has made for me has been a very sobering train of thought and one I do not want to have to find out what it is like.

Don't let fear play a part in your life be open and ready for HIS plan. Let God show you what it is that He wants to bless you with.

Let His peace flow over you this weekend and rest in Him.

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of love and of hope and a sound mind!" II Tim 1:7 my fav verse!

Can I Get a "Do-Over"?

2010-06-20T09:08:00.000-04:00

Over the past two years I had several major and a few minor things happen in my life. Some to me and some to others that affected me greatly. I sit here now looking at the date of my last post and I am shocked at the amount of time that has passed.

These past two weeks have been just as bad, but have served as a wake-up call.

Decided to change this to an account of my journey back. . .

Still Small Voice, "This is not who you are!"
me, "Did I hear something?"
Still Small Voice, "This is not who you are!"

me, "What?"
Still Small Voice, "This is not who you are!"

me, "Did You say what I think You said?"
Still Small Voice, "This is not who you are!"

me, "Yes, I know that." and still proceeded to NOT heed the warnings.

Two weeks and alot of heart/gut wrenching pain later. . .

Still Small Voice, "That is not who you are!"

me, "I feel like it is who I am. HELP ME!! PLEASE!"
Still Small Voice, "Sit with Me child & listen & learn. I Love you!"
me, "I am so sorry. Will you help me out of this pit?"

I have been led to start reading two books,

So Long, Insecurities
&
Get Out of That Pit
both by Beth Moore

This will be my dialogue of how God brings me out of this PIT.

Random Thoughts. . .

2009-02-17T10:42:00.003-05:00

Sitting here today with many thoughts running through my mind. . .

I have found that I truly love Jeff.

I enjoy my job

I get to see my grandbabies very soon! I miss them sooo much!

I hate that feeling just before you get sick. . .

My daughter & I talk alot - I like that.

The beach is my Haven of rest.

Why are things so often complicated?

I am happy my son is so happy.

Laughter truly is a wonderful medicine!

Jeff is my favorite Biker!

Ever have to deal with something you knew was going to be a mess?

Trust can be dangerous and good at the same time.

Is there ever a good time for a crisis?

My life turned out differently than I thought it would.

I love my car.

It's interesting when you catch someone in a lie that you don't even know.

I am very thankful for the friends God has given me!

28 years is a long time and then again it is a short time.

I am excited to see Primal Faith's finished product!

Photography is something I really love!

It is hard to see a friend that is greiving.

Death leaves such a hole in your heart.

I love my family sooo much!

Life is a wild and crazy ride. . .I am glad I am on this particular ride!

SIGH. . . . .

Blessed Be Your Name!

2009-01-04T21:01:00.002-05:00

4 days into 2009 already in the desert place. . .

My precious daughter miscarried this evening. . .our hearts are broken. . .

This song is reverberating in my head!

Blessed Be Your Name
by Matt Redman
- - -
Blessed Be Your Name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name

Blessed Be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed Be Your name

Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

Blessed be Your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's 'all as it should be'
Blessed be Your name

Blessed be Your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be Your name

Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-14T09:40:00.006-05:00

Can you believe 2008 is almost gone? Where did the time slip away to? We have had a full year and blessings in our family beyond belief!

We added a grandson to our family in 2008 and will welcome another precious baby in 2009! I am so thankful for my kids, their spouses & my grandchildren. . .Our family continues to enjoy time together when we can. . .watching them work through issues and what life throws at them, makes me even more proud of who they have come to be. I love each of you more than you will ever know!

Cheri, words cannot express how much our friendship means to me! Being able to spend time with you this past year has been so awesome! I love you and your sweet family! Look forward to more time in the coming year!

The friends we have made along the way in our journey continue to enrich our lives! (thank God for Facebook!) We have been able to reconnect with many of you through FB, how wonderful! Never pass up a chance to make friends even if it is for a short time, connecting with people is so important in this day and time.

Know that we love you all and look forward to the coming year and whatever God may bring our way, we will be thankful and give Him all the praise!

Merry Christmas to all of you! And may you not let the business of shopping, wrapping, cooking and running from here to there overwhlem you or keep you from focusing on what really matters! Slow down and enjoy the days and people around you.

Love is pouring from Your heart. . .

2008-11-16T13:21:00.002-05:00

Funny how you can be tooling along thinking you are heading your own way or just exisiting, not doing much and then a simple breakfast or need to have a talk with someone can turn into such a God moment. Have had that happen several times in the past couple weeks. I believe God is showing me that He is in control and prooving to me that the saying "You can do nothing to make God love you less OR to make God love you more!" is very evident in my life right now. We can get so caught up in feeling the need to "do" so God will be pleased, that we forget He is the same always. His love never changes.

Love is pouring from Your heart
Hope is in Your hands
Life is in your arms. . .Spirit FALL. . .

What to do? What to do?

2008-09-28T15:32:00.003-04:00

Been struggling to find my place of late, at our new place of worship & ministry. Even though it is temporary we know getting connected its vital to our way of life. Have had many conversations with my hubby about just where I feel I am gifted to serve.

Have always struggled because everyone always thinks a minister's wife should be teaching or something like that. . .I like the interaction of teaching, but studying is not my fav thing to do - to be honest I DON'T like it! I am sure you are totally shocked. ;o) I love feeding people in a literal sense. but I feel there should be another aspect to what I am doing for God.

So, every week, I just follow Jeff around and wonder what it might be that I would enjoy doing. He really loves speaking and teaching, it is something he thrives on, enjoys and really feels fulfilled. Through this area we are serving in Saturate weekend connect God began to answer my question. . .

Met a new friend, Amanda, through Saturate and we hit it off immediately, she is in the same boat, only 20 years younger than I. So, we talked, connected and I really enjoy hanging out and talking with her. Looking forward to more conversations. She is a really awesome young lady.

Met another young woman, Rachel, last night, it was instant connection, I was able to talk to her from the other side of a situation she is facing and shed some perspective. Seemed as though we talked for an hour when it was actually only a few minutes. Encouraged her and shed some of the ideas she had about Life Groups. Looking forward to getting to know her more.

Funny how God does that. Lets you form an instant bond with someone and not totally understand why.

Then it hit me. . .That is my ministry. . .one on one. . .sharing life with other women. . . one on one. . . connecting with someone . . .share life . . .and God's wisdom together. But isn't that what it is all about anyway? Connecting. . .doing life together. . .being there for each other. . .enjoying time spent together.

I came away after an amazing Baptism service . . .they bring a swimming pool into the auditorium and those coming for baptism get to share their story with everyone as they are being baptized! Key people in their lives can come into the pool with them and share this special moment at LCBC "Lives Changed By Christ" - http://www.lcbcchurch.com/ cried my eyes out at the sweet stories and special ways God has drawn each of these precious people to Himself! AWESOME!

So, with a lighter spirit and more thoughts on giving it away instead of just existing. We drove away from church last night in the middle of the rain that has set in and enjoyed the ride and thoughts running through my head and heart. Looking forward to what is to come. . .

It just get's better!

2008-09-04T14:40:00.004-04:00

I never dreamed that after 27 years of marriage, things would be better and getting better each day. My wonderful husband has become even more precious to me!

We have made this crazy move for my job this time and our roles have become weird. But, we have made it a habit to walk together each day and during these walks our talks are of God and what He is doing. . .our dreams and what we could see possibly happening. . .Our sweet children and how they are doing - seems we tag team on the phone with them at times . . .the desires of sharing life with them and our grandchildren as much as possible. . .we prayer walk past the local college as we have felt from the beginning that we would have a spiritual stake in it somehow. . .deal with a few issues that have come along that are a bit uncomfortable. . .but through it all we join together and stand firm together.

I think that is the key to a good marriage. . .standing firm together in the Lord, but being individual enough to express concerns and issues with love and compassion. . .dream and share the others dreams. Somehow see God work it all out and mesh these two separate lives into one. Things have not always been easy, but even the issues have been worth sticking out and weathering. . .just to wake up another morning to see his sweet face sleeping in the bed beside me. . .to look forward to each morning as he reads the Word over us and as we hold hands and pray. That is so special to me.

As much as he talks about my smile. . .he has this smile that is only for me and I just love to see it, watch it form. And to see him laugh in one of our sparring, sarcastic go-rounds. He has helped me develop a sense of humor and I am so thankful for that. Laughter has kept this home on a level ground.

Jeff, You ARE so precious to me! I love you!

Visitin the grandkids. . .

2008-07-13T14:20:00.003-04:00

Just concluded a week long visit with our oldest grandson Jackson! What a wonderful time we had! He rode on the plane back up here with me and the joy on his face watching us go "up on top of the clouds" was awesome! Then we rode 2 trains to get to our house. He thought that was alot of fun. We hit all of the train places here in PA for the next few days. Being on the Grandma side of life is the best thing I could have ever hoped for. The innocence of a child is a wonder to watch. He would say "There is my friend, PopPop!" So cute!

Sure is quiet here now. . . that is why I am picture happy. . . that helps make the distance not seem so far.

Ava & Nannie

Porter - what a QT!

How Can We Not Praise HIM??

2008-05-13T09:47:00.002-04:00

There are so many things that happen everyday that without the Hand of God we would not make it through.

God I praise YOU!
for
WHO You are
Your love for me is neverending
Your grace abounds each day
You gave me a wonderful family
An adorable husband that loves me
3 wonderful grandchildren
4 amazing kids
safe travel for Jeff to Tahoe - He finally made it!
safe travel for me here to Florida!
a job for me that will help Jeff have time to get Primal Faith going
friends that are so special and have added so much to our lives
Giving me time to spend with my kids & grandbabies!
Gorgeous Florida Weather! You appreciate it when you leave it!
For Jeff's flat tire happening while he was NOT on the bike!
Helping me make it through another project and night shift

and a million other reasons. . .Thank YOU!

PORTER

2008-04-28T03:14:00.005-04:00

He has arrived!! Our 3rd grandchild! What a blessing! He was greeted by Mommy & Daddy. . .big brother Jackson, Popop, Grandaddy & MiMi. . .what a precious bundle of joy God has given our family!

I am so proud of the father my son has become. He is so good with Jackson and I know he will be just as good with Porter. Tara is amazing to watch with Jackson, always teaching and guiding and loving. She is a natural Mother. Porter has been blessed with wonderful parents.

I love you Porter!!! See all of you soon!

2008-04-24T19:55:00.000-04:00

I miss you guys!!!!!!!!!!!!! :o(

Happy Birthday Linsey. . .

Happy almost Birthday Porter. . .

and then Jeff

then Keith

then Ava

then Jackson

Lots of Birthdays coming up!!! I love all of you! Wish I was there. . .

Great visit and then I crashed. . .

2008-04-14T21:31:00.003-04:00

Well, he has come and gone! What a great time we had. Just enjoying each others company in a new town. He loves history so what a better place to be than Philly. . .enjoyed our walks down 9th street market and all over the Historic area. . .what a great place. . .went to Philly's version of the "Soup Nazi" (from Seinfeld) Pat's Steaks. . . it was great. . . then joined new friends here for dinner at a great Authentic Italian Restaurant. . .then off to Italian Chocolate Shop for dessert near South Street. YUM!

The best thing was waking up and seeing him there. . .most times he was watching me. The love on his face amazes me sometimes. After 27 years of being with this man, he still looks at me like when we were dating. Kinda felt like that while he was here. I look forward to the next visit and then being back together. God has given me a wonderful husband! I am so thankful for him and what we share!

miss him again though . . .

Not good getting of Night schedule for three days. . .I crashed today. . .slept all day and could have slept longer! But it was worth it! I love you Jeff!

My LOVE. . .My Partner. . .My friend. . .the half of me that has been missing!

2008-04-07T19:06:00.003-04:00

It has been 3 weeks. . .I am so glad he is coming here on Wednesday! A week earlier and a week less I have to wait to see him, be with him & enjoy his company! This has been a strange time, but one we both knew this was how it was to be. I am looking forward to 3 days of his presence and time to catch up!

I love you Jeff! See U Soon!!!!!

me

2008-03-31T01:14:00.004-04:00

YOU'RE STILL THE ONE
(Shania Twain)

When I first saw you, I saw love.
And the first time you touched me, I felt love.
And after all this time, you're still the one I love.

Looks like we made it
Look how far we've come my baby
We mighta took the long way
We knew we'd get there someday
They said, "I bet they'll never make it"
But just look at us holding on
We're still together still going strong

You're still the one I run to
The one that I belong to
You're still the one I want for life
You're still the one that I love
The only one I dream of
You're still the one I kiss good night

Ain't nothin' better
We beat the odds together
I'm glad we didn't listen
Look at what we would be missin
They said, "I bet they'll never make it"
But just look at us holding on
We're still together still going strong

You're still the one I run to
The one that I belong to
You're still the one I want for life
You're still the one that I love
The only one I dream of
You're still the one I kiss good night

I'm so glad we made it
Look how far we've come my baby. . .

I miss you!

Pillar of Cloud led them. . .

2008-03-26T03:07:00.003-04:00

God led the people of Israel through the wilderness with a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.

I was walking out from work the other morning and looked up to see the steam rising up from the Cooling Tower (there is only one here at this plant). Those verses ran through my head about how God visibly guided them the way he wanted them to go.

Do you ever wish He would do that today? (I think of those silly "black cloud" cartoons) I have often wished that it would be that clear. . .but now I look and see that He does make it clear. . .it is just not visible to everyone else, only those He is guiding. Then I got to wondering if anyone else passing by could see the cloud and the fire?

Sometimes others do not understand the leading of God in our lives. They silently (or verbally) think we are crazy or hitting mid-life crisis. . .

The Psalms

2008-03-22T12:21:00.007-04:00

I have been reading all of the Psalms, a couple a day. So uplifitng and encouraging and then some are so dark almost depressing. . .I love how it can mirror our mood shifts and how emotional we are as humans . . .when I was a kid, we were taught that everyone in the Bible was good and Godly and loved the Lord. We were never shown the reality and the realness of each character God shows us in His Word.

I am so glad that God provides for us the realness, the humanity of each of the "Fathers (& mothers) of our faith". Watching them come through their struggles, trials and accomplishments - seeing their faith grow, their love for Him increase. . .gives us hope and encouragement.

His instructions to us basically come down to this. . .trust Him, follow Him in obedience, give Him the glory for it ALL! He will take care of the rest. . . learn from these examples. . .the good and bad!

Psalm 148: 13-14

Let them all praise the Name of the Lord

For His name is very great!

His glory towers over the earth and heaven!

He has made His people strong,

Honoring His godly ones -

The people of Israel who are close to Him.

PRAISE THE LORD!

Ever notice just how small you are when standing at the foot of a great mountain or digging your feet into the soft sand on the Shoreline? I sat and thought on the above verses this morning and thought about how miniscule that mountain and that shoreline actually are in comparison to HIM! His glory towers over the earth and the heavens! As our youth say "AHMAZING!" Can you even try and comprehend that? His Glory TOWERS over the earth AND the heavens!!!!!

It's God's day!

2008-03-21T11:30:00.003-04:00

Woke up this morning thinking on exactly what He did for me (for us). . .on that day so long ago. . .we call it good friday. . .not so sure he was thinking of goodness on that particular day. It was good for us. . .what He must have had inside Him waring between the fully God and fully man. . .to know exactly what was coming and what He would endure. . .knowing the cost to Him and the benefit to us. . .what unselfish love He has for us. . .I am so humbled as I sit here and think of HIM. . .HIM. . .HIM. . .HIM

Psalm 56:3-4

2008-03-14T06:57:00.002-04:00

Had a melt down a few days ago. Got word that I am heading up to jersey. Fears assailed me like never before. I had a friend betray me in the midst of all of this. . .The sadness of leaving the people we have ministered with for the last 2 years overwhelmed me. . .Seeing the precious kids faces of our G220 gang come and hug and bring laughter & food (I LOVE YOU GUYS!). . .Fear of not finding a decent place to live. melt down!

encouraging words and hugs from my precious husband. . .quietly a prayer slips past my lips. . . .a song begins in my head. . .

Pslam 56:3-4

When I am afraid I will trust in You

In God Whose word I praise In God I trust

I will not be afraid what can man do to me?

When I am afraid I will trust in You
When I am afraid I will trust in You

In God Whose word I praise In God I trust
I will not be afraid what can man do to me?

Trust in You

Trust in You. . .

for 2 days this song has reverberated in my heart and head. for 2 days now peace has come and fear has subsided. Never discount how God will use scripture to bring you peace!

Thank YOU Father! Your provision is amazing! Your grace so undeserved! I LOVE YOU!

To our dear friend L thank you for the word and prayers and friendship! One of these days we will get to meet!

My Birthday Trip

2008-03-10T15:52:00.001-04:00

Daytona Bike Week 08

2008-03-03T15:50:00.002-05:00

Attended my first Bike Week in Daytona Beach this weekend. What a mixture of people converge on this place. Typically when you think of Motorcycles you probably think of gangs, leather, fights and mayhem. . . .OK, well there was alot of mayhem and leather but there was alot more to it. On of the tents we went to was a guy that has seen his share of life and comes to these events to share Jesus, Hope and cold bottle of water with anyone that stops by. Christian Riders Ministry. . .a very welcoming group of people. If you are ver at an event and you see their yellow tent, stop by and say hi. . .

I love watching my husband get so excited as we get there (just the ride alone makes him happy), the way he watches everyone and takes it all in. His talks with the Father as he walks around and searches for where Primal Faith may fit in this crazy realm. The fact that he was glad I was with him made me so happy. We enjoyed the ride and the time together with good friends.

The ministry (www.PrimalFaith.org ) is coming along - God is moving us ever closer to the reality of what it will be. We handed out a few flyers. The Website has already changed. I am very interested in seeing what it will become, the lives God will change and use for His glory. The people that will meet HIM because of him and his passion.

Not looking forward to him being gone and traveling so much, but I know there is a purpose for it and God will be with him so I cannot worry. Only trust.

Crazy Sign Quotes. . .

2008-02-20T07:34:00.006-05:00

Heard about a sign that stated:

"God can do anything until you put Him in a box"

I laughed when I heard it, because of the absurdity of that thought. I think that we sometimes think we have more power than we actually do or we are just so caught up in ourselves that somehow we make that statement seem to be true. Because after all He love us more than anything. . .how self absorbed are we? He loves us don't get me wrong.

Maybe we should switch it around and say "God can do anything. Period. But I am in the box surrounded by myself and what I want, so I can't always see what He is doing."

May we gain perspective on who we are or are not. . .God does as He wishes, it is not dependant on me or what I do. I am so glad, because far too many times I am too self absorbed to think of anything else. May my heart be drawn to Him and be absorbed by Him instead of me.

A little time out for politics. . .

2008-02-03T14:54:00.000-05:00

Is she kidding?? What part of freedom of choice does she not understand?? You can choose to have an abortion, but you cannot choose to not have health insurance. . .

WASHINGTON - Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton said Sunday she might be
willing to have workers' wages garnished if they refuse to buy health insurance
to achieve coverage for all Americans.

The New York senator has criticized presidential rival Barack Obama for
pushing a health plan that would not require universal coverage. Clinton has not
always specified the enforcement measures she would embrace, but when pressed
during a television interview, she said: "I think there are a number of
mechanisms" that are possible, including "going after people's wages, automatic
enrollment."

Clinton said such measures would apply only to workers who can afford
health coverage but refuse to buy it, which puts undue pressure on hospitals and
emergency rooms. Under her plan, she said, health care "will be affordable for
everyone" because she would limit premium payments "to a low percent of your
income." - copied from AP By CHARLES BABINGTON, Associated Press Writer

God's Timing is quite amazing. . .

2008-01-15T17:15:00.000-05:00

Does it ever blow your mind that God times stuff so perfectly and it all comes or does not come to pass?

I have been working an "Outage" at the Nuk plant here since September. I have had no time for anything else. But, I have a "Hobby" of Designing websites and have a few that I up keep and have designed. All through this time of working these crazy hours, I have wondered what would happen if I get calls wanting me to do a website for someone. Funny thing is I had not had one call and all of my existing sites have not needed much attention through this time. I even had a full page ad out in a HS Football program!

Fast forward to Christmas and the end of the outage. . .All of a sudden my email box is full of requests, my phone is ringing asking me to design websites and logos!! WOW it is amazing! It is so cool to look back and see how God worked and held back what I could not handle.

That is so COOL!

Business Card. . .

2008-01-08T14:29:00.000-05:00

A new pastor was visiting in the homes of his parishioners. At one house it seemed obvious that someone was at home, but no answer came to his repeated knocks at the door.Therefore, he took out a business card and wrote "Revelation 3:20" on the back of it and stuck it in the door.

When the offering was processed the following Sunday, he found that his card had been returned.

Added to it was this cryptic message, "Genesis 3:10."

Reaching for his Bible to check out the citation, he broke up in gales of laughter.

Revelation 3:20 begins "Behold, I stand at the door and knock."
Genesis 3:10 reads, "I heard your voice in the garden and I was afraid for I was naked."

"A cheerful heart is good medicine" (Prov. 17:22)

Winter Has Come!

2008-01-03T09:54:00.001-05:00

You don't get to say that too much in South Florida! Woke up to a brisk 35 degrees out this morning and a wind chill of 12 - EWE! Not much on the cold weather, but it is a nice change. This would have been nice right around Christmas. Oh well. It is what it is. . .

Had a very different Holiday Season this year. It was good just different. Spent time with the Grandkids - my favorite thing to do! They are growing up so fast! I love having them around. Mostly just got to hang out with Jeff and be with him. My other favorite thing to do. Had planned on spending time with friends during our trip, but I got sick on the way up to my daughters and spent 2 days in bed. So , we focused on being around the kids.

Looking forward to what 2008 holds for us. . .

Locks of Love

2008-01-02T13:57:00.000-05:00

Can you imagine a child fighting with cancer and then also having to live with no hair? Locks of Love is a great program that takes donations of hair and makes them into wigs for these precious kids. Several months ago I decided to continue growing my hair out to donate to this cause.

Of course there is so much mis-information out there that I decided to go to the source http://www.locksoflove.org/ - - I got everything I needed to know. Alot of salons will doante the cost of the haircut

I had heard that if you color (permanent color) your hair you cannot donate - not true - they just can't use bleached hair, it melts in the wig making process.

For the wigs they accept 8 - 12 inch ponytails. they also accept shorter lengths that they can sell to cover the cost of the wig making process.

Take the challenge if you can. It is such a great thing.

This photo is of my Grandaughter Ava & me with my new haircut.

Baby Face . . .

2007-12-18T13:36:00.001-05:00

- she's got the cutest little baby face!!!

I cannot help it, but whenever I see this little face I just have to smile!

Babies are great! Grandbabies are even better!!!

He doesn't have a baby face anymore - but oh how he makes me smile!! There is just a joy that comes when I think about these two faces and cannot wait to meet the one that is on the way!

Santa Had a Melt Down. . .

2007-12-17T11:02:00.000-05:00

Got this real pretty wreath last year with Santa on it with this long flowing "white" Beard. Came home from curch yesterday and the heat and humidity took it's toll on poor Santa - he was out of his element. Beard is now red and drippy. ewe!

Just reminded me of how when we are out of our element we can sometimes have a melt down of our own. Left to our own devices we can become red & drippy. . .only through God's strength and spending time with Him daily in HIS element can we survive the elements we encounter and make it through the tough times that come along.

Family

2007-12-12T09:10:00.000-05:00

Why is it that family members are the hardest people to be honest with?

When they hurt you and never admit it - they just try to shove it under the carpet that looks more like a mountain because of all of the junk under it. Never willing to deal with it out in the open, they just justify actions or live in denial.

May we keep short accounts with those who will actually let us and pour out the rest to our Father, about those family members who will not accept any blame or admit that they have been hurtful. I would rather be like that than live with my head stuck in the sand. We must be responsible for breaking those proverbial family chains.

Pushin' Out To Sea

2007-12-10T10:50:00.000-05:00

Here we stand hand in hand

Ready to do Your Will. . .

The shore has been our comfort zone

the waves sometimes look too high

But we'll look up & grab Your Hand

and cling when faith seems frail

Excitement and anxiety

sometimes clash inside our hearts

But You speak over us and clarity comes

Our commitment is brought in to focus

You call us and there we go!

Christmas Musings. . . .

2007-12-06T15:21:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful for so many things.

It has been a good year.

The best gift? a precious little pink bundle named Ava.

My husband and I have grown even closer to each other.

Our relationships with God have increased instead of decreased!

Reunited with a very dear friend from High School. God blessed me with more time as her friend! We have been able to help each other through some tough things.

The joy on my daughters face as a wife and mother is so awesome to watch.
She was blessed with such a wonderful husband and the sweetest little girl.
She is one of my closest friends!

I have the best Mother-in-Law EVER! She is so precious to me. Always has time for us. Such a giving woman. . .not so much stuff, but her heart and her help in any way possible.

My son and his family are expanding next year! Tara is glowing and working very hard! Jackson is my buddy! His pictures make me smile. He reminds me of a little boy that used to live in my home!

Early marriage is tough, but worth the fight to keep it.

God has given me friends that I have yet to meet, one in Texas, one in NC. They have made a huge difference in my life already.

I love Christmas Lights. . .

My brothers are very special to me. They make me laugh and I am so glad they are in my life!

My sister-in-law is not an in-law at all - we are truly sisters, sisters, there were never ever better sisters. . .

I will be glad when work slows down and I can spend time with my close friends. . .I miss our afternoon coffee and/or morning breakfasts.

I am in Beach DT's. . .and my office sits across the street from the ocean! torture. . .

I am excited about what the future holds! God is revealing some really cool things, in really cool ways!

Music is music to my ears.

Laughter is the greatest thing! Make sure you laugh a little or alot every day!

Puzzles

2007-12-04T17:12:00.000-05:00

Sat here today reading an email from a friend I have, that I have not met yet. . .chills ran up and down at the prospect of what it could mean to my husband and myself!

Have had thoughts rolling in my mind about this exact subject and just dismissed it as just putting situations together. . .maybe not. . .is this what God is leading on? Is this where? and Why?

Cool how God is putting the pieces to the puzzle together and how things we thought had only one purpose may have more. . .I love to watch God working. It is always amazing and unconventional.

Do you derive your theology from the lyrics of a song?

2007-11-30T08:15:00.000-05:00

Anonymous, Good article, thanks for the link. Does not support your comment though. . .And yes the song is full of sarcasm. That is the point. . . we in America think we have a grasp on the "Big Picture". . .sorry to burst your little bubble. . .but we aren't even close. Our view of God is so small. Unfortuantely we have been given (sometimes sold) a small view of God through our churches and TV Land. I don't want to serve a God that I have to pay money to get a blessing! That is NOT the God I serve!

I do not get my theology from a song. but it can make you think. . .and laugh. It points out how trivial we can be at times. Others are starving, being beaten and hiding for their faith or just to live. We sit in the lap of a great nation and pray for our team to WIN! How messed up is that?

We were in the mall last night and overheard a woman talking rather loudly, to the poor captive cashier, about what they were doing to raise money for an event at their church. It would have been amusing had it not been for the last comment she made. . .after all of her talk about God and how he was providing and they were so excited. . .but they needed more money 3k more. . .they were just trying to get this last bit of money in . . .then the comment that blew my mind. . ."oh by the way don't tell your manager what I just said, I am not supposed to be doing this here" . . .I wanted to go up to the cashier and apologize on behalf of the not so crazy people who love God.

What a representation of Americanized Christianity.

The Eagles New Album

2007-11-18T20:08:00.000-05:00

Growing up in the 70's you just had to love the Eagles music. . .
Just picked up their new album. AWESOME!
I think I have already worn it out. Has some great songs.
But one that hit me and I love is. . .

"Frail Grasp On The Big Picture"

Well, ain't it a shame
That our short little memories
Never seem to learn
The message of history
We keep makin' the same mistakes
Over and over and over and over again
And then we wonder why
We're in the shape we're in

Good ol' boys down at the bar
Peanuts and politics
They think they know it all
They don't know much of nothing
Even if one of them was to read the newspaper
Cover-to-cover
That ain't what's going on
Journalism's dead and gone

Frail grasp on the big picture
Light fading and the fog is getting thicker
It's a frail grasp on the big picture
Dark ages

You my love-drunk friend
All that red wine and candlelight
Soulful conversations
That go on until the dawn
How many times can you tell your story?
How many hangovers can you endure
Just to get some snuggling done?
You're living in a hollow dream
You don't have the slightest notion
What long-term love is all about
All your romantic liasons
Don't deal with eternal questions like
Who left the cap off the freaking toothpaste?
Whose turn to take the garbage out?

Frail grasp on the big picture
You keep on rubbin' that,
you're gonna get a blister
It's a frail grasp on the big picture
I've seen it all before

And we pray to our Lord
Who we know is American
He reigns from on high
He speaks to us through middlemen
And he shepherds his flock
We sing out and we praise His name
He supports us in war
He presides over football games
And the right will prevail
All our troubles shall be resolved
We have faith in the Lord
Unless there's money or sex involved

Frail grasp on the big picture
Nobody's calling them for roughing up the pitcher (?)
It's a frail grasp on the big picture
Heaven help us

Frail grasp on the big picture
All waiting for that miracle elixir
Frail grasp on the big picture
I don't wonder anymore
Frail grasp on the big picture
Somebody says,
"You brought her here so go ahead and kiss her

Frail grasp on the big picture
Frail grasp on the big picture
Light fading and the fog is getting thicker
It's a frail grasp on the big picture
Frail grasp on the big picture
Frail grasp on the big picture

None But Jesus. . .

2007-11-13T09:56:00.000-05:00

None But Jesus

by Brooke Fraser

In the quiet,

in the stillness

I know that You are God

In the secret of Your presence

I know there I am restored

When You call I won’t refuse

Each new day again I’ll choose

There is no one else for me

None but Jesus

Crucified to set me free

Now I live to bring Him praise

In the chaos, in confusion

I know You’re Sovereign still

In the moment of my weakness

You give me grace to do Your will

When You call I won’t delay

This my song through all my days

All my delight is in You Lord

All of my hope, all of my strength

All my delight is in You Lord Forevermore

I will give You thanks forever, because You have done it!!

2007-11-10T12:13:00.000-05:00

I love it when God's faithfulness is revealed and hope springs anew!! Here is a response from my best friend, Cheri, that shares my name. . .This is how God ministered to her today. I just had to share this!

My dear friends, The Lord has given the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness!! Thank you for your prayers; God has worked in a mighty way! He has guided and directed me through a thick fog and fierce storm. This is the scripture the Lord took me to this morning; honestly, I don'tbelieve I have ever read or heard this verse. As I was looking at another verse across the page, my eyes literally fell right to these words:

Isaiah 54: 5 - 8
For your Maker is your Husband - the Lord of hosts is His name and the Holy One of Israel is your redeemer; the God of the whole earth He is called. For the Lord
has called you like a woman forsaken, grieved in Spirit, and heart sore - even a wife wooed and won in youth, when she is later refused and scorned, says your God. For a brief moment I forsook you, but with great compassion and mercy I will gather you to Me again. In a little burst of wrath I hid my face from you for a moment, but with a age-enduring love and kindness I will have compassion and mercy on you says the Lord, your redeemer.

Jeremiah 33:3 says:
Call unto me, and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things, which you know not.

What a wonderful promise! because He does answer, far beyond what we think or
imagine! I thank God for each one of you, thank you for your calls and emails
this week! Cheri

Glory and Honor and Praise! You are holy precious Father!!

Be Strong and Courageous

2007-11-08T10:17:00.000-05:00

To two special women in my life going through a rough time right now. I urge you to be strong and courageous! Let the Light that lives inside you search out and destroy the darkness that is threatening you (and your children, Cheri).

My wish would that I could be to stand and fight right beside you. . .but since I am unable to be with you physically in your fight, I will fall on my knees every chance I get to pray that the Greatest Comforter and Warrior will be there surrounding you and protecting you in this battle. That you would know and feel His presence and praise Him for the victory that is to come.

I love you Anna & Cheri. . .be strong and courageous!

You Are Holy

2007-11-05T17:52:00.000-05:00

Finally got to jump back on the Harley with Jeff yesterday. . .it's been awhile. What a gorgeous day. Almost cold! It was a great ride.

I love having my ipod on as we ride. As usual I was listening to it and had such a God time. It was awesome.

We were riding along the beach in Jupiter and you could see the waves every so often through the bushes. The cool breeze was blowing . . .the sky was so bright and clear and the song "You Are Holy" By Hillsong (linked below) comes on. The words overwhelmed me and comforted me at the same time.

To preface this, I have been feeling very lost in some things that are happening. Besides the fact that I have always struggled with being insecure. . .anyway, Jeff comes home from his trip and we have this long talk. . .cry. . .awakening. . .realization and humbling time the night before. A whole tumult of emotion. God breaks through some of the barriers I have set in place. He uses my precious husband to help me realize I was not trusting God through the past week. . .It was an awesome time of learning and getting ready to learn even more. . .

So, back to the ride. . . I am enjoying this song as I usually do and this phrase keeps repeating and it struck me in my heart. . .

I'll sing your praises forever
Deeper in love with you
Here in your courts
Where I'm close to your throne
I've found where I belong

I have found where I belong!!

Fall is here!!!

2007-11-03T11:01:00.000-04:00

I walked out my door at 6:30 am to head to work this morning expecting the usual hot morning blast of air we have had lately. . .but I was greeted with a wonderful cool breeze!! It was so awesome! How refreshing to feel the fall air here in S FL!

Then again, it makes me want to get outside and play not be in my office working!

My husband has just come through a refreshing of sorts. A spiritual renewal . . .I am glad for him. and a little jealous I must admit. . . but how is it just like our heavenly Father to blow over us like this fresh fall breeze after a long hot summer. I know He will barely be touching the ground on his ride home.

I did not make this easy on him. I let fears and pride creep in and ruin my enjoyment of what he went to do. For that I do have regret. . .but my precious daughter was there to talk me through it and patiently listen to my feelings and what I was experienceing and then not blow them off but agree that they were valid and that I needed to give it over to God and trust Him. . .I love having a daughter that is a close friend and sister, as much as she is my child. Thank you Linsey, I love you dearly!

Jeff I love you more than words could ever express! I cannot wait for you to be back home!

Looking but not seeing. . .

2007-10-30T10:02:00.000-04:00

That is how I feel today. . .like I am looking through this huge bright window but not seeing anything. I want to be a part, but I am in this room and cannot leave. . .while I watch others go on with their lives. Not sure why this is, but it is. . .so I must be content to trust and let God lead. . .or leave me as I am for now.

It is quite strange. Because I am not really sad being in this room. it is comfortable and I can watch part of it. . .I just cannot be a part of it. . .Just kind of strange the way things are going. . .

There is Peace. . .

2007-10-25T17:30:00.000-04:00

I have this settling peace over me when I think of the future. There is so much that is unknown. . .but the faithfulness God has shown me has proven time and again that He is trustworthy.

Had a funny thing happen with my darlin husband this week and it made me realize how much I love him and what a great friend he is. I have been so content with our relationship, that I was taken back by his question. For it was nothing that had even crossed my mind in a long time. His love has been so complete and fulfilling that I have been captured by him. My mind seems consumed by what God is doing in our lives and the joy of watching God working in him and seeing what is coming. . .My only sadness is not being able to join him on some of his journeys. But that too has purpose in it.

If you have ever doubted the power of prayer and God working. . .you just need look at my wonderful husband. He used to be alot of bad things. . .God has transformed him into this man that has a heart that seeks after God constantly. . .wanting to know HIM more and do more than just exist.

He has taught me . . .

to laugh at myself.

to enjoy the moment and not wish it away.

to love God with a passion.

to speak up for myself.

to love people as they are.

to not be so insecure.

to find out who I am apart from being a mother.

I love him for all these reasons and so many more. He is a treasure God has given me and I plan on cherishing this treasure as long as I live. . .

I love you, Jeff!

50 Years!!

2007-10-20T05:17:00.000-04:00

Today they celebrate 50 years of marriage!!!

My Mom & Dad,
Ed & Ginny
or Grammie & Grandad

Happy Anniversary!

We love you!

______________________________________________
_________________________________________________

Elisha. . .what a man of God!

2007-10-14T09:19:00.000-04:00

Reading the accounts of God's power flowing through Elisha. . .he was not afraid of telling it like it was. Willing to go and do whatever it was God told him to do. . .How tender he was with the woman who provided him food and a place to lay his head. . .I bet you the kids these days would not be so mean and hurtful if Elisha was around. They mocked him - calling him "Baldhead" and he cursed them and brought bears out and killed 42 of these kids!. . .He alone got to see Elijah taken to heaven in the fiery chariot. . .I love the account of that. He would not leave Elijah's side, for he knew what was coming. All of the prophets kept telling him Elijah was going to be gone and he would shush them, not wanting to ruin what what was coming.

We have encountered a modern day prophet recently. . .sceptical? don't be, I was at first, but God has opened my eyes. . . she is the real deal. There are more out there just like her. God has not stopped working in miraculous ways, we have just stopped believeing in ALL that He can do. We are the ones who need a good dose of un-americanized, full of the Holy Spirit, awakening to WHO God really is and that He is still speaking and working through people just as He did long ago.

As Elisha told the kings of old, stop worshipping idols and turn to the ONE true God. He is the one that can help you, He is the One that heals, provides, touches, comforts, and is alive and well. No we don't have statues that we bow down to every day, but we have replaced those statues with "Stuff", things we place ahead of God and that consume our minds and our time. We need to stop each day and bow down to the Almighty God, seek Him and not let church be our idol either.

Father, You are so amazing. Let us see more of You, know more of You, and do more for You!

He loves me. . .

2007-10-13T16:05:00.000-04:00

He left 5 days ago. . .5 days ago, I went home to an empty house, but. . .it had been transformed while I was gone. . .everywhere I turned I saw neon pink notes plastered with "I LOVE YOU!". . ."I love you here". . . "I even love you here!" I am still finding them. Like something out of a Dr. Suess book. . .What a special treat and a joy to my heart. I left them up so I could see them every night when I come home. My husband is so precious!

The best one I found was on my Bible where I have my time with God each morning. Sitting here thinking about those notes, I am reminded of Someone Who never goes away. He has been with me through this and many other times. A request and He helps me sleep, for I do not like being alone. I am so thankful for a Father that is. . .

Looking forward to Monday when My love returns. God has given him a wonderful week seeing our children and grandchildren, spending time with some friends that are encouraging him in the Lord. He needed this week away. . .so glad he could go. I will be glad when he is back home. . .I miss him.

God, Thank you for the this precious treasure you have given me and for times like these when I can learn to appreciate him even more. You knew so much more than I did 27 years ago what I needed and what would make it the best it could be. So many scars, but actually they are traces of You growing me and creating me into the person You want me to be. . .

Thinking. . .

2007-10-11T20:07:00.000-04:00

Being home alone gives you a little time to think.

God has been so faithful to me in my life.

I have a wonderful husband and best friend.

I miss him right now.

God is working on my children

He loves them more than I

My dearest friend needs God to release her grant her peace after this long journey

My grandchildren are the light of my life

Mother-in-Laws can be such a blessing

My daughter is a wonderful mother and wife

My son is back

a long awaited email brings tears when it finally arrives

A brother is a treasure

A true sister may not always be blood related

Being happy flips some people out

Music really does soothe the soul

God really does answer prayer and

He is intimately involved in our lives - we just sometimes don't notice

You are my Phenomenon. . .

2007-09-25T05:37:00.000-04:00

Below are the lyrics to a song by Rita Springer. . .Phenomenon

I am not here just to see a phenomenon
I am not here for experiential bliss
I simply come to the feet of the God
I serve,The one that I love

I am not here for the sake of the people's praise
I have not come to see the thunder and rain
I simply come into courts of the King above
The one that I Praise

I want to find the way to his chambers
I want to be in the presence of the Lord
I am in need of his mercy and favor
Forever more

I am not here for the sake of a miracle
I am not here just to see the dead raised
Yes I believe in power supernatural
But that's not way I'm saved

I've had enough of this life of a Pharisee
I want to know this Jesus who's been loving me
I'm running into the temple just to see
The one that I love

I want to find the way to his chambers
I want to be in the presence of the Lord
I am in need of his mercy and favor
Forever more

I give my heart to the one they call Jesus
Seeking out first the very kingdom of God
You are the way and the truth I believe it
You are my phenomenon

You can move mountains whenever You want to
You can speak to the sea whenever it pleases You

Forgive me oh Lord if I've been a market place
Turn me upside down so I will seek Your face
And if Your presence comes into this place
So will the thunder and rain

Been reading of David. . .

2007-09-18T19:19:00.000-04:00

What an awesome read. . .David was such a man of passion and love. But so human. . .

What must it have been like to dance with all your might down the main street to the Glory of God?

To know you were annointed King long before it was time?

To paitiently wait and honor the current king even in his failures?

To be so intertwined with the royal family knowing God was not pleased with the current state of things. . . yet vowing to this closest of friends to always honor the family?

To have so much but want more and have the power to take it?

To feel the sting of pain as Nathan proclaims your deepest secret to you. . .given by the One you were worshipping days before?

To live out your days loving the God Who carried you through the family curse. . .

God may we only even glimps a love for you that David had. A confidence in Your ability bring about what You will and to accept the punishment for what we have done. . .not blaming anyone but ourselves. But letting You set it right.

May we learn to dance in the street - not worrying what others may think, even family, and enjoy worshipping You as David did.

Give me a heart like that. . .

Time for a "soapbox" question. . .

2007-09-13T14:51:00.000-04:00

I have been pondering a question deep in my heart and have vocalized it to one other. It disturbs me, yet, I have not found the answer. . .Here is my quandry. . ."Has the church become a hospital that does not welcome but only the select sick?". . . I know of several couples that are living together. They started attending church and wanted to join and were told "no". There is a friend that is gay. . .would I feel comfortable bringing him to my "Hospital"? no. . .I do not understand how we can effectively minister to those we meet that are not of the "acceptable" realm of sickness. . .Why is it that Jesus went into and traveled around with all manner of sinners, loving them and showing them mercy, meeting them where they were? Yet we cloister ourselves off and do not allow them to come along with us and let God do the healing. Isn't He the Physician? Instead, we basically say, go clean yourself up and then you can come and be a part of us." What is up with that?

It kind of reminds me of a nurse in the midst of a war zone, shewing the obviously sick away and only letting those who she thinks have minor injuries into see the Physician. Selective healing?? Is there a workable solution? Is the American Church too far gone to bring around?

hmmmmm. . . .any input?

September 11th

2007-09-11T11:48:00.000-04:00

Six years have passed and still the sadness remains. Watching the memorial this morning reminded me of that Tuesday morning. . .the horror and devastation hit everyone. Tears still sting my eyes just watching the pain on the faces of the people gathered in New York today. I remember thinking we will never be the same after this. . .

Now six years later the world is back to normal for the most part, except for those families and friends of loved ones lost, still frozen in time. . .

I pray today they can begin to heal. . .my heart hurts for them. I also pray they feel God's comforting arms around them. Death is never easy, especially when combined with such horrific circumstances.

Abigail - a woman of faith

2007-09-10T10:00:00.000-04:00

Reading along in I Samuel this morning I am reminded of a Godly woman named Abigail. One of my favorite Women of the Bible actually. She had a tough situation in her life and faced it head on with grace & dignity.

Married to a loser, she proceeded with her lot in life and made the best of it. Confronted with a bad situation, knowing David and his men would come back and kill her husband (which most women would have welcomed). She took it upon herself to take a peace offering to David and his men. Instead of saying, it was all my husband's fault, she took the blame and begged his forgiveness. She was a strong woman full of faith and very knowledgable in what was going on in her day. How many women would have cowered in fear of her husband's reprisal for what she had done?

I wonder if maybe Nabal's heart attack (or stroke) was brought on by the rage he felt for what she had done behind his back.

I know many women that have similar lots in life, two in particular I was reminded of this morning. That have that same grace and love of God, to accept who it is they married and live their lives according to the Proverbs 31 woman, instead of being an "Oprah 101" woman.

One is my Mother-in-law and the other is my best friend from High School. They both show the grace and love of God to their families daily. No they are not perfect, but, they don't whine about the decisions made in their lives, they just stand up and live for God and show their husband's what a Godly woman is like.

I look up to both of these women in ways they will never know. I pray that God will bring about the transformation in their families that He has done for my husband.

The Wonder of God's Timing. . .

2007-09-06T10:02:00.000-04:00

It has always amazed me at how God's timing can be so unexpected to us. I love the quote I have heard many times:

"Has it ever occurred to you that nothing ever occurs to God?" by Mark Lowry

We have just received news that we are going to be grandparents for the 3rd time! Of course we are ecstatic at the news! They however were not quite expecting this news. Happy now, but not what they had planned. . .God's plan sometimes changes ours. . .I believe this baby will be a huge blessing in their lives.

God is never to fast or too slow. If we could only grasp that sometimes we would be alot more calm about what is ahead.

God

2007-09-04T09:17:00.000-04:00

There are instances in my life that point to God's grace & faithfulness, others His mercy, and still others His unfailing love. . .

I have been walking around in a fog the last couple of years. Wanting to draw back to God and yet not being able to find my way. . .Blank. . .that was how I felt. . .if you have ever been in a dense fog you know that it is blank. . .nothing to see, feel or touch. A wall of white, where there once was color, vibrance and beauty.

This past summer we experienced so much of God and watched Him do amazing things in the lives of the young people working with us. This summer, and even now, is a monumental moment in my life. I am watching my husband being transformed into such a man of the WORD. His excitement is contagious.

After overcoming the guilt for lack of my own time in the WORD. . .God has challenged me to come along side my husband and join in to what was bubbling up in his heart and soul. God is preparing us for our next journey. When and where that is taking place, we do not know. But we trust and listen each day. Wanting to make sure we do not run ahead or fall behind. Ready to do whatever He asks. . .scary and exciting!

Our Young Adult Group is going through "Don't Waste Your Life" by John Piper. What an excellent study and we are only in chapter 3. . .

A quote that stuck out this week:

"Oh, that God would help me waken in you a single passion for a single great reality that would unleash you, and set you free from small dreams, and send you, for the glory of Christ, into all spheres of secular life and to all the peoples of the earth" by John Piper

Small dreams. . .isn't that what we have been taught all our lives?

To only dream small attainable dreams?

Why can't we 'Dream Big in God' and watch what He does?

When did we start settling for "church" life instead of
experiencing all God has set before us?

There is more out there. . .we just have to throw off those shackles that we have attached to our hearts, let go and experience what God can do when we fully surrender to HIM! When we stop listening to "you can't do that" and start listening to what God says we CAN do through HIM!

Read Psalm 138 - awesome!

Who says you can't go back?

2007-06-24T23:18:00.000-04:00

While up here enjoying my new grand-daughter, I have had the opportunity to visit some of the places we have served on staff previously and catch up with some very dear friends. It has been so great!

Have you ever gone back somewhere and just felt the warmth of family envelope you as you entered? Or had the comforting thoughts of "I am back home"? Even though some things have changed, the welcoming hearts are there and so excited to hug you and chat for awhile. Funny thing is, that no biological family lives or attends at some of these places, but they are family just the same.

That is what happened to me in two very different places I have visited recently. One a small town, God fearing, community of believers that are doing life together. The way I think it was meant to be. The other, a large group of believers that somehow mesh together and make you feel it is a place you belong.

Our former Pastor is a God fearing man of God that preaches the Word every week. He is definitly not ashamed of it. I was reminded this morning during the Message God gave him to speak, that Compromise starts very small and grows. And if you are not careful, it will suck you in and destroy you as it did with Lot's wife.

God used that message this morning to remind me of what He did for us a year and a half ago. He rescued us from the compromise we were running headlong into. He refreshed my soul today in the worship and the preaching of His Word. Also a reminder that it was no-ones fault but ours. We like to try to place the blame every where else except where it belongs.

Thank You God for all the blessings You have given and most of all for the grace and mercy You show every day. You are faithful and loving. I love YOU!

So, YES I say you can go back, you need to go back sometimes and be reminded of who & Whose you are! And to see those you love.

My Precious Ava

2007-06-05T23:32:00.001-04:00

She arrived in her own sweet time. I had the honor of watching her arrive into this world. Not an easy delivery on her or my daughter, I was reminded of the frailty of life.

Watching Keith attend to my daughter's needs and breathe soothing words over her during the 21 hours of labor. I was reminded of my precious husband who did the exact same thing the day our sweet little daughter arrived into this world. What a tear on your heartstrings as you watch your daughter give birth for the first time. She was so strong! Always asking how Ava's heartbeat was and how she was doing. She is a natural mother. Thinking of our children before ourselves. The strength I saw in her through 15 of the 21 hours I was present for, showed me she had become a woman of strength and courage. She is no longer my little girl, but a wife and mother. Ava is a very lucky girl. Keith is a very lucky man.

How proud I am of Keith, my son-in-law, for all he is and has become. He adores both of his girls and watching him with them brings joy to my heart. I know they will always be cherished and protected. He is truly a man that was ready to become a husband and father. Ava & Linsey are lucky to have him.

What I am anticipating now, is the look on my husband's face when he finally arrives to meet his new granddaughter! He will melt and be wrapped immediately! They will have a special relationship. . .

God, thank You for all you have blessed me with! Thank You for protecting my girls through this delivery. Thank You for allowing me to be a part of it.

When did work become more important than family?

2007-05-11T05:32:00.000-04:00

I had to make a choice today. . .

At a job I love and have really enjoyed, I was made to feel that I should choose it over a very special family event upcoming in June.

Was it a hard choice? not at all

Was it life changing? somewhat

Are we made to feel that employers come before family? YES

Would I make the same choice again? YES

Did my husband support and encourage me in the choice I needed to make? YES

See, to me family is everything. If I am put in a place to choose. . . .and it between you and family & you are not family. . .so sorry. The world today has jumbled it's priorities. My husband is my best friend, my kids are so special to me, my grand-kids are a rare treasure. I could not even fathom missing the arrival of my precious granddaughter!

So as freaked out as I am. I know that God will take care of me. He will guide and provide. He is ever faithful. If it weren't for my God, I would probably be insane by now. Because left to my own devices, I would freak out & worry ALOT.

The worst part about today. . .my character was brought into question. I was told I was not dependable and that I was demanding. Well, maybe according to this person, but, that is not true. So, I stepped outside of my usual "don't ruffle any feathers" mode and stood up for myself.

So. . .here I stand at a new crossroad. . .I am very interested in seeing what is up around the bend. . .AND I get to now spend MORE time with my precious Ava when she makes her entry!!!

I LOVE BEING A GRANDMOTHER!!!!

My New Love. . .

2007-03-09T21:03:00.000-05:00

For my mid-life crisis I decided that I needed something or actually someone new. . .So on my 44th birthday I found the man I want to live the rest of my life with. . .He is tall, very good looking (even though he is an older man), graying in a Sean Connery sort of way. When he smiles the room gets brighter and it just makes you want to smile. . .I am so thankful I found him down on the boardwalk. . .Seems I lost track of the reasons I married him and have fought to stay with him all these years until last night! Last night I fell in love with my husband all over again!

A word of caution to those of you married for awhile or short time. . .don't take for granted the person you wake up to every morning! Learn to find something new about them and keep your view of them fresh. Take the time to walk on the boardwalk at night and rediscover the friendship that will keep you together. . .communication is very underrated in relationships these days.

I love you, Jeff!
me

Some great advice!!

2006-10-27T09:17:00.000-04:00

I really like this list it is so true. . . #7 is my favorite, because I am in love at first sight every morning when I open my eyes and see my best friend next to me!

ONE. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
TWO. Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.
THREE. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.
FOUR. When you say, "I love you," mean it.
FIVE. When you say, "I'm sorry," look the person in the eye.
SIX. Be engaged at least six months before you get married.
SEVE N . Believe in love at first sight.
EIGHT. Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.
NINE. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.
TEN. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling
ELEVEN. Don't judge people by their relatives.
TWELVE. Talk slowly but think quickly.
THIRTEEN. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, "Why do you want to know?"
FOURTEEN. Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk..
FIFTEEN. Say "bless you" when you hear someone sneeze.
SIXTEEN. When you lose, don't lose the lesson
SEVENTEEN. Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and responsibility for all your actions.
EIGHTEEN. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
NINETEEN. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
TWENTY. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.
TWENTY-ONE. Spend d some time alone.

SOS '06

2006-06-22T23:31:00.000-04:00

Our church is doing a thing called SOS (Summer of Service) we have shirts that say "The Church has left the building. . ." - went to the thursday night out at Jensen Beach (downtown hang out night) and handed out free bottled water (no strings attached, for real!) - didn't even invite anyone to church - just gave them some cold water. It was awesome to watch their faces when they heard it was free. . . people were not sure how to react.

It was great . . Jeff and I befriended these two street musicians (one had a mohawk), they were so funny. had a great time interacting with them and all the different people there. We are doing this all summer and then hopefully going to continue on. . .

I think this is may be a little more like it should be - getting out and meeting people, giving them a smile and saying HI or have a good evening. We got alot of smiles in return. Can't wait for next week!

Feeling Good!

2006-06-22T16:56:00.000-04:00

I don't think anyone can appreciate good health until they have been through a bout of bad health. Pain can really mess you up. A friend told me last night that I looked happy. . .guess I have not been very 'happy' lately with a torn muscle in my back. The meds can make it that much worse. But. . .it helps me appreciate what others, with much worse health issues than I have, are going through. . .

Getting older is not what you think it is when your in your 20's. . .now in the 40's you look at life alot differently.

Thank God for each day He provides! Don't wish it away. . .

An actual car jacking. . .of sorts. . .

2006-06-13T22:37:00.000-04:00

This is a true account recorded in the Police Log of Sarasota,Florida...

An elderly Florida lady did her shopping and, upon returning to her car, found four males in the act of leaving with her vehicle. Shedropped her shopping bags and drew her handgun, proceeding to scream at the top of her voice, "I have a gun, and I know how to use it! Get out of the car!"

The four men didn't wait for a second invitation. They got out and ran like mad.

The lady, somewhat shaken, then proceeded to load her shopping bags into the back of the car and got into the driver's seat. She was so shaken that she could not get her key into the ignition. She tried and tried, and then it dawned on her why. . . For the same reason she did not understand why there was a football, a Frisbee and two 12 packs in the front seat. . . A few minutes later, she found her own car parked four or five spaces farther down.

She loaded her bags into the car and drove to the police station to report her mistake. The sergeant to whom she told the story couldn't stop laughing. He pointed to the other end of the counter, where four pale men were reporting a car jacking by a mad, elderly woman described as white, less than five feet tall, glasses, curly white hair and carrying a large handgun.

No charges were filed.

MORAL OF THE STORY? If you're going to have a Senior Moment, make it memorable!

25 years!!

2006-04-29T16:33:00.000-04:00

Wow, I sit here in awe at what has happened and how 25 years have flown by. This May 16th will be the 25th anniversary with my husband. How full of joy I am when I think about him. JEFF - - He is the one person who can make me happiest or maddest in the world.

I love him for who he has helped me become. He pushes me to step out of my comfort zone and to jump up out of the ruts I sometimes get into. He is my best friend and the one person I know will be there for me.

25 years of a roller coaster ride that has been incredible. There have been times I have wanted off. But, thankfully the cars never slowed down enough for me to jump out.

Sticking it out, has been hard but so worth it. Now we walk through the mall or down the beach (when I can get him to go) hand in hand and are enjoying the empty nesting time. It is so much fun I must say.

Jeff, I love you! Thanks for being. . .

The Other Moment

2006-04-02T14:47:00.000-04:00

As some of you know we have been on sabbatical from Ministry for a short while. Catching our breath and awaiting what God would have us do. . .

The other moment in my previous post is now official and underway. My husband is now the Pastor of Student Ministries at First Baptist Jensen Beach, FL. We have been praying for about 6 months now, knowing that we were ready to get back into ministry, but seeking where God wanted us to be. It is now official and such a wonderful fit for us. We are already a part of this church as we have been attending there since last fall. It feels good to be doing what we have been called to do. . .Actual ministry - helping others, getting to know these kids and trying to make a difference. That is what this church is all about. That is what God is all about.

Had an interesting discussion with the girls in the class I taught this morning. About what true Christians should be like. We agree that it should look just like what Jesus did while He was on the earth. Loving others, helping others, meeting them where they are, not judging them or putting them down, finding out what they are all about. Everyone has a story. Everyone just wants someone to care.

Christians are portrayed in a bad light in some cases. We just don't want to be that way. We want others to see Jesus love coming through us. Can't do that is your yelling at them from across the street or holding up ugly signs condemning them. I believe if Jesus were here today. . .He would be in the abortion clinic, hugging those precious girls that have just had a big dose of reality. Comforting those hurting & lost souls whoever they may be. Not hold up in some church-house condemning them or fearing them.

I will pose the question to you I asked of myself and this group of girls this morning -
"What do others know about God by watching you everyday?" . . . Because believe me they are watching to see even a glimpse of hope from someone! Anyone!

Another year older. . .

2006-03-10T13:30:00.000-05:00

Well, on the first day of the next year of my life (yes, I am a nother year older!) I had two major "Moments"! Crazy huh?

The First one I cannot share yet. . .but it is good!

Second, I get a call from my daughter saying "Guess what I am doing?"

Of course I reply, "What are you doing?"

She says, "I am staring at something very very shiney. . . .on my left HAND!!!!!" and proceeds to break my eardrum by screaming into the phone "I'm engaged!"

Flashes of my little girl about 4yrs old, when she would run into the house and ask "Guess what I was doing, Mommy?" or when she would climb in my lap and say, "Ooh Wee!". . . The young girl getting ready for Prom. . .the daughter who drove me crazy at 13 and at now 21 almost 22 is a dear friend. . .the 5 yr old concerned, to tears, because her friend doesn't love Jesus. . .the little girl singing "I'm bringing home a baby bumble bee" off key but oh so precious, now sings like an angel. . .the little stinker who would do something wrong to get her brother in trouble and act all innocent. . .how much fun we had going to San Francisco together. . .Thought I was ready and prepared for this. . .I mean we've been planning the wedding! But, now it's really official! I am excited don't get me wrong. . .reality is just setting in.

I pray for her upcoming marriage to be as full and wonderful as mine is. That the fights will always end with love and understanding. That laughter will fill their home. And most of all the would always keep God as the center of their marriage. When times get hard they will cling to each other instead of pulling away.

Linsey, I am sooooooo happy for you! I love you! Welcome Keith, to our very disfunctional family! We have fun here! I love you, too.

Sanity. . .

2006-03-07T18:28:00.000-05:00

This was sent to me and I thought it was pretty good.:

Jim and Edna were both patients in a mental hospital. One day while theywere walking past the hospital swimming pool, Jim suddenly jumped into the deep end. He sank to the bottom of the pool and stayed there. Edna promptly jumped in to save him. She swam to the bottom and pulled Jim out.

When the director of Nursing became aware of Edna's heroic act, she considered her to be mentally stable. When she went to tell Edna the news she said, "Edna, I have good news and bad news. The good news is you're being discharged; since you were able to rationally respond to a crisis by jumping in and saving the life of another patient, Ihave concluded that your act displays sound mindness. The bad news is thatJim, the patient you saved, hung himself in his bathroom with the belt tohis robe right after you saved him. I am sorry, but he's dead." Edna replied, "He didn't hang himself, I put him there to dry. How soon can I go home?"

Moments in life

2006-02-27T14:13:00.000-05:00

My husband is a wonderful man. Had to link his latest posting to my site, as it has filled me with even more love for him. Even after 25 years. . . http://primalexperiment.blogspot.com/2006/02/searching-for-handle-on-moment.html
A few moments I recall. . .

A tense meeting, frustration flowing. . .a sigh. . .a cry for a second chance (or is that a 5th or 10th chance?). . ."I just don't know". . .he says "I wish that we could start over". . .my reply "that would be nice if we only could". . .that little grin on his face as he comes over to me and says "Hi, my name is Jeff". . .a new beginning!

He bursts throught the door. . .beaming from ear to ear. . .I did it! I got my 6 month sobriety chip!. . .now it's been 18 years! Awesome!

what a wonder God is that He lifted us out of the pit. . .sheltered us through the storms we've been through. . .loved us when so unloveable! Thank YOU!

How greatful I am every day for the man who lets God guide his steps! And for the example he has given our children. . .for the lives they are starting. . .for the examples they will be. . .

Th Hokey Pokey. . .

2006-02-16T20:45:00.000-05:00

My husband used to have a bumper sticker on his car questioning us all. . .

"What if the hokey pokey really is what it's all about?"

Because of that. . . a friend of mine sent us this sad news. . .

With all the sadness and trauma going on in the world at the moment, it is worth reflecting on the death of a very important person which almost went unnoticed last week. . .

Larry La Prise, the man who wrote "The Hokey Pokey", died peacefully at age 93. The most traumatic part for his family was getting him into the coffin.

They put his left leg in, and then the trouble started. . .

Why would you dread this??

2006-02-10T09:54:00.000-05:00

I am a Grandmother!! What a wonderful time of life to be in! Just got back from spending time with our son and his family. What a great time we had! I was officially called Nannie with out having to coax-- "Say Nannie" . I thought my kids saying Momma was great, but this is just as wonderful. Probably better because we can sit and hide our laughter when a temper tantrum is thrown and not have to deal with it. (we put our time in with his daddies tantrums!)

Jackson is such a joy! He has this great little personality. Nothing brightens my day like seeing him, next best thing is seeing his pictures, with that huge grin. Tara had a calendar made for us. Each month has pictures of Jackson, we love it!

I have one question to ask - -

Why in the world would anyone NOT want to be a grandmother or grandfather????
It didn't make me any older than I already am. . .Just alot more grateful for the life I have and for my precious children. Seeing them grown up and starting their own lives is really a joy. You always wonder if you 'got it right' - -I don't think any of us 'get it right'. But it helps to know the ONE Who can make our mistakes right! I give God all the credit for the way my children turned out. They are both very loving and caring. . .Willing to learn and change. . .eager to love and be loved. . .they have both found someone special to spend their lives with and I am so happy for them!

I remember my father-in-law saying over and over again, when I was pregnant with TJ (the first grandchild), he would tell me "He will not call me Paw Paw or Grandpa, he will call me Jim!" Until the day he held TJ in his arms. I had never seen such a big, strong, independent man melt as fast as he did that day - -He giggled and grinned and said "Come to Paw Paw!!" He was Paw Paw from then on. . .

Don't fight it! Enjoy the fruit of your labor. . . and their labor!! ;o) enjoying theirs is much better!

Christmas Memories

2005-12-21T08:52:00.000-05:00

My favorite childhood memory of Christmas was going home to Denver to see ALL the family. Since we lived so far away that was the only time we could spend with all the cousins and my grandparents. They would set up long tables in the basement and we would all gather round and eat, talk, laugh and my uncles would always play tricks on all of us. Before that we would spend the days prior to Christmas at my grandparents ceramic shop, painting and helping grandpa pour slip into the molds. I guess that is where my love for arts & crafts began.

As an adult there are so many great memories with my children. . .but last year was the first with my grandson! He was not old enough to enjoy it, but we had alot of fun. It was a very simple Christmas, we scaled back and just enjoyed being together. This year we are headed to my husbands family in Mississippi! If it is one thing they know how to do there it is have huge family gatherings during Christmas. He comes from a very small town up there and so we will be very busy seeing everyone.

I love Christmas. . .it seems as though everything takes on a magical feeling with all of the christmas lights and music. What does it matter if they say in the stores "happy holidays" or "Festivus for the restofus" (sienfeld episode)- As long as we know and are passing on the real meaning with our children and friends. . .that is how it will stay the focus of the holidays. Protesting has never softened a heart. . .Christ love does that!

Coming home. . .

2005-12-19T10:32:00.000-05:00

They say you can never go back. . .

I say it is wonderful to go back home. . .

Spent 2 days at 2 of our former churches this weekend. What a joy to be able to go back and see such special friends and basically family.

Was able to see one of "My Girls" get married to a wonderful young man and continue their road into ministry together.

Was able to spend time with one of my dearest friends, just picking up where we left off and seeming like we haven't been apart. Time flies so fast . . . her girls are growing like weeds, each with their own personalities. She is a true friend.

Witnessed my daughter join a church with her boyfriend & without me. That is hard and joyful all at the same time. Cool part is, it is at our first church we were on staff at. Felt like I was back at home with my family, visiting there. What wonderful people they are. Just a group of people who love God and are living life in community with each other. I am glad Linsey and Keith are going to be a part of that family. They all seem to be thrilled to have them there. What a genuine group of believers.

I am spending a few days with Linsey. I love how our relationship has grown and is becoming a friendship. She is so special to me and such a wonderful young woman. I will treasure this time for I know it will be changing soon. As hard as it is to see your kids grow up and move on, it is such a joy to see God working in their lives and see them become adults. It is different but fun.

I miss my son. I am so joyful knowing he is happy and learning to be a husband and father. But, I miss him coming and sitting down and just talking about life with me. I treasure those moments we had. . .I look forward to more down the road.

Coming home. . .around the holidays that is alot of fun to do. Get back in touch with family and friends and enjoy being together. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and holiday season!

I am Thankful!

2005-11-22T21:34:00.000-05:00

I love the holidays! Everything seems to take on an excitement - the briskness in the air (Ah, yes even down here in S FL!). . . Poeple tend to be more joyful. . .families getting together. . .I am sitting here awaiting the arrival of my family, tomorrow night. It will be good to have them all pile in here and spend some time with us.

I love to cook and have all those smells roaming through the house. That is one of the joys I have - having my family looking forward to the meal. It's fun.

I am so thankful for so many things, but mostly for my wonderful husband, Jeff! Who thankfully isn't going anywhere, anytime soon. I love him so much! He is my best friend, my own personal comedian, my encourager, the one I am looking forward to spending the rest of my life with, we have made it through almost 25 years and I am looking forward to the next 25.

Funny how when you get married you believe your life will be complete when you have your kids. . .and they are a wonderful part of marriage. But, I don't think we ever stop to consider that the time you spend raising them is not very long (looking back of course). That there is life after they are grown and living their own lives! We are coming out of that phase of 'wondering how we got here and what do we do now?"

I am so excited about the rest of our lives! We plan to enjoy ourselves, do things we have always wanted to do, go and see things and places of interest, play with our grandkids as much as we can, live life to the fullest. But most of all we plan to spend this time doing whatever it is God wants us to do. Not caring what anyone else thinks about how much we move or anything like that. Just wanting to please Him and make Him known.

What is down the road? we do not exactly know, but we are confident in Who is guiding us there. "We aint Skeered!" as Jeff would say!

Answered Prayer

2005-11-10T12:31:00.000-05:00

I was told when my children were young to start praying for their future spouses. I have done that through the years and have actually looked forward to the day I would get to meet them.

There has been one answer to my prayers already - my daughter-in-law is a wonderful young woman who loves the Lord and is such a wonderful life-mate for my son! It has been a joy to watch them grow in their marriage and come together after being apart while TJ was in Iraq. What a blessing to see them start their family and begin the rearing of our precious grandson.

My cup was near full the day they wed.

My daughter's future has been a praying challenge! She has her father's spirit and my heart. She is such a wonderful, independant (in her own way), young woman and I am so thankful for her. My heart always hurt for her, knowing she wanted someone to love and to love her (besides us), but not finding it. Until now. . . She is head over heels in love, with a wonderful young man. I have never seen her glow like she does now. The change in her is amazing and heart warming.

Her father is having trouble with this - (if you have ever watched "Father of the Bride" you know why) She is still 'his' little girl that climbs up in his lap and says "Oooh wee!" (her version of I love you!) She is not the beautiful young woman she has come to be, to him. He still sees her in her puppy dog tails and Osh-Kosh out fits, playing dress-up, singing & quoting verbatim the movie 'Cinderella'. The one who gave him a "sugar spot" in his beard from kissing him so often. It's amazing she still has eyelashes from all of the butterfly kisses she has given.

Change is hard. . .but change is good! God answers prayers in His timing and in His way! I am so glad He knows best!!!! He has blessed me with so much!

"My cup runneth over!"

Blessings and Best friends!

2005-10-14T09:21:00.000-04:00

Sometimes we expect it all to be sunshine and roses. . .I like this little poem, it takes the not so good to appreciate the good. There are times in our lives we need to take a step back and see ALL that God has given to us and how blessed we are!

Coming up on 25 years of marriage, I look back and realize the bad times helped the good times seem that much better! I would not be who I am if I hadn't been through all that happened. . .

I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.
I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye.

Step back. . .open your heart and mind. . .and notice all the blessings along the way, give your appreciation to God for His wonderful care and faithfulness! Then share them with someone who needs encouragement!

As a friend of mine recalled about my husband and the extrodinary changes in his life in the past 25 years. . .it is truly amazing he is where he is today!

Thanks, Cheri for reminding me of one of the biggest blessings I have recieved! You are so special and one of my dearest friends! We have an enduring friendship . . .another of my wonderful blessing! I love you, my sister & friend!

How is this photo for a BLAST FROM THE PAST!!!!

Chili Cookoff!

2005-10-01T08:51:00.000-04:00

A friend sent this to me - thought it was worth publishing!

Time for a good laugh...
Note: Please take time to read this slowly. If you pay attention to the first two judges, the reaction of the third judge is even better.
For those of you who have lived in Texas, you know how true this is. They actually have a chili cook-off about the time Halloween comes around. It takes up a major portion of a parking lot at the San Antonio city park.
The notes are from an inexperienced chili taster named Frank, who was visiting from Springfield, IL.

Frank: "Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a chili cooking contest. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I happened to be standing there at the judge's table asking for directions to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the
other two judges (native Texans) that the chili wouldn't be all that spicy and,besides, they told me I could have free beer during the tasting, so I accepted."
Here are the scorecards from the event: (Frank is Judge #3)

Chili # 1 Eddie's Maniac Monster Chili...
Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick.
Judge # 2 -- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild.
Judge # 3 -- (Frank) What the hell is this stuff?! You could remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put out the flames. I hope that's the worst one. These Texans are crazy!

Chili # 2 Austin's Afterburner Chili...
Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight jalapeno tang.
Judge # 2 -- Exciting BBQ flavor; needs more peppers to be taken seriously.
Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who wanted to give me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when
they saw the look on my face.

Chili # 3 Ronny's Famous Burn Down the Barn Chili...
Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse chili. Great kick. Needs more beans.
Judge # 2 -- A beanless chili, a bit salty, good use of peppers.
Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels like I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now my backbone is
in the front part of my chest. I'm getting pie-eyed from all of the beer...

Chili # 4 Dave's Black Magic...
Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.
Judge # 2 -- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish, or other mild foods; not much of a chili.
Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally, the barmaid, was standing behind me with fresh refills. That 300-lb. woman is starting to look HOT...just like this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?

Chili # 5 Lisa's Legal Lip Remover...
Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili. Cayenne peppers freshly ground, adding considerable kick. Very impressive.
Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must admit the cayenne peppers make a strong statement.
Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead, and I can no longer focus my eyes. I farted and four people behind me needed paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her chili had given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding by pouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips off. It really pisses me off that the other judges asked me to stop screaming. Screw those rednecks.

Chili # 6 Pam's Very Vegetarian Variety...
Judge # 1 -- Thin, yet bold vegetarian variety chili. Good balance of spices and peppers.
Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, and garlic. Superb.
Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous, sulphuric flames. I pooped on myself when I farted and I'm worried it will eat through the chair! No one seems inclined to stand behind me anymore. I need to wipe my butt with a snow cone.

Chili # 7 Carla's Screaming Sensation Chili...
Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers.
Judge # 2 -- Ho-hum; tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of chili peppers at the last moment. **I should take note that I am worried about judge # 3. He appears to be in a bit of distress, as he is cursing uncontrollably.
Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which slid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava to match my shirt.
At least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've decided to stop reathing; it's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting any oxygen anyway. If need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch hole in my stomach.

Chili # 8 Karen's Toenail Curling Chili...
Judge # 1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too bold, but spicy enough to declare its existence.
Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili. Neither mild,nor hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge # 3 farted, passed out, fell over, and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself. Not sure if he's going to make it. Poor fella, wonder how he'd have reacted to really hot chili?

Technology In our lifetime. . .

2005-09-29T23:25:00.000-04:00

Heard a thought provoking question today:

What advancement in technology, world event or some other occurence has happened during your lifetime that you would have never imagined (.i.e Berlin Wall coming down, DVD's, podcasting, hand-held pda's, AIDS, two bushes in the whitehouse, etc.)

The people who are starting college this fall across the nation were born in 1987.
They are too young to remember the space shuttle blowing up.
Their lifetime has always included AIDS.
Bottle caps have always been screw off and plastic.
The CD was introduced the year they were born.
They have always had an answering machine.
They have always had cable.
They cannot fathom not having a remote control.
Jay Leno has always been on the Tonight Show.
Popcorn has always been cooked in the microwave.
They have never taken a swim and thought about Jaws.
They can't imagine what hard contact lenses are.
They don't know who Mork was or where he was from.
They never heard: "Where's the Beef?", "I'd walk a mile for a Camel", or "de plane, Boss, de plane".
They do not care who shot J. R., and have no idea even who J. R. is.
McDonald's never came in Styrofoam containers.
They don't have a clue how to use a typewriter.

My Response to this is:
Wireless technology! That is still amazing to me. Getting better all the time.
I remember when we first heard about fax machines in '79-'80. . . We were in awe of that technology and that is nearly obsolete!
Remember when push button (corded) phones were new? I saw an old TV show where they were using the 'dial'. . .that would drive me crazy today!
My Dad worked for IBM & he was on the design team of the first ATM Machine so we got to play with the first ATM prototype, when I was, I guess, in Elem. school.

Now if we could just come up with a way to magically get laundry done!

How about you???

Life Change

2005-09-26T19:21:00.000-04:00

Just spent the weekend with my daughter @ college. I sure have missed her! Met the new guy in her life. Coming into that was rather strange. . .someone my daughter cares for that I don't know. Poor guy was so nervous. He is a real nice guy. . .I love seeing her happy. She has friends to hang out with now and people that are CRAZY to keep her laughing! I enjoyed meeting all of them and seeing some I haven't seen in awhile.

It was a good visit, not long enough, but the drive was!!

It's good to be back home. Home to me is wherever my husband is. He is my best friend and my own personal comedian! He makes me laugh. . .along with him and sometimes at myself. . .I need that. I believe laughter is what keeps a marriage together. If you can't laugh, that is a very sad existence. We could be in a huge fight and he will say or do something to make us both laugh and not blow it out fo proportion.

Life is good. Even when it changes. the adjustment is hard, but you find your way. We are going to enjoy this change of life and do what we should have done when we were first married. REALLY LIVE!

Hurricane Katrina

2005-08-28T12:46:00.000-04:00

Our prayers are with those up in the area Katrina is heading. How ominous this storm seems. My heart is heavy knowing what hurricanes can do. We have loved ones in the path and just out of range of the path. Worse yet, would be facing that storm without the hope of Jesus Christ! The promise of His presence and love in the midst of the storms of life.

I pray that through the hard times of your life you would seek the only One who can bring you peace and help. Jesus. . .He is not Who the religious nuts of our day or days past say He is. He is not aloof to those in trouble or pious in the face of someone who has messed up. He was, and is, the One that hung out with the poor, hurting and greiving. . .the tax collector, the prostitute, the homosexual, heterosexual, drug addict, depressed and lonely. . . and He comforted them gave them hope and the "Living Water" that quenches the thirst that you can find no relief from any place else! He is unconditional Love!

Actually the people He became most angry with were the Pharisees. . . the religious people of that day that only cared about how they looked and what people thought of them and obeying the rules. . .Jesus says in the Bible. . You can know all sorts of information and obey all kinds of rules, but if you don't show love to others, it is worthless. . .(my translation).

So, may you find the love of the One who created you, that loves you just as you are right now! He is a whisper away if you truely seek Him!

Hebrews 11:6 says "Without faith it is impossible to please Him; For those who come to Him must believe that He exists and He is a rewarder of those who truely seek Him."

The Twilight Zone

2005-08-15T09:02:00.000-04:00

Time is one of those things you really never pay attention to until you are older. I never thought of time as a teenager or young adult. Now at 40+ and a grandmother of the greatest grandson EVER! ;o) I feel like we are in fast-forward mode.

My daughter is back in college, my son is in Iraq, my daughter-in-law & grandson move back home next week to await the arrival of TJ home! That will be a wonderful day. How we all have missed him, but none more than Tara. She is a strong and wonderful young woman. I am so glad God gave us such a wonderful addition to our family. I miss them already.

We are empty nesting now, again!

It is true what they say "they always come back home!". . . Our daughter has come back & left 3 times! She is going to become a teacher. She will be a great one. She loves kids and spending time with them. I am so proud of her. I miss her.

I have been in the twilight zone as of late. It's strange how you can be right in the midst of this close, intimate relationship with Christ and then you wake up and find it has been 6 months since your last encounter with Him! I am unsure of what happened. But here I am at the threshold of beginning again. . .turning around and finding Him there patiently waiting. . . crazy thing is I haven't been doing anything bad. . .just haven't been doing anything!

So today starts another trail back to where I should have always been. I would hate to see my journey as a topical map. I think you would get very dizzy tracing all of the rabbit trails I have taken as I jump off the straight and narrow to the woods of complacency. Normally that is where I jump to. Not jumping headlong into sin. . .just not desiring time with the Father or study time. Just Not. . .

We attended Life Groups and Church Services yesterday and it felt so good to talk about serving and ministering to others. It was great to see poeple excited about God and being there together. I miss spending time with the youth girls we used to have in our home for Bible studies and gatherings. That was when I was most fulfilled, being able to share in the lives of others and learn and grow together.

Here we come out of the twilight zone, into a place where people matter. Not just "Christian people" but all people.

Creativity!

2004-12-13T14:29:00.000-05:00

Have you ever just sat and looked around you. . .at the minute details of everything? The intricasy of a flower, of a leaf, at the awesomeness of a rainbow and how quickly it appears? Much less our own bodies and how they function. How often do we not notice the creation of God. We think about creation, but is it someting we think is done, over, finished? hmmm.

Just look at what you are doing right now. . .reading a blog I am writing here and you can read it there. Do you think this just happened? "Every good and perfect gift comes from above!" God created the person who He gave the idea of computers. . .who He gave the ability to design the internet. . . WIFI. . .fax machines. . .chocolate. . .music. . .lights. . .art. . .pictures. . .CDs. . .phones. . .

How can we worship God and not realize and appreciate what He is doing? How creative He is. . .where do you think we get our creativity from? Our desire to do and make things? Not from some stodgy old man sitting up there waiting to smush us when we do the wrong thing! Not from some elusive being that is unconcerned about His creation! Not from within ourselves!

James 1:17-18
"Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above, who created all heaven's lights. Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows. In his goodness he chose to make us his own children by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his choice possession."
NLT

A new perspective

2004-12-12T16:07:00.000-05:00

I am reading a book right now called "The Holy Wild" by Mark Buchanan

Talk about having the right book at the right time! Jeff, my husband, read it and told me I should read it. (I am into Christian fiction - not theological books) Anyway, I started reading it after I became un-employed unexpectedly. Starting to fall into depression because I cannot find a job - I turned to reading to get my mind off of the struggles.

God has used this book to speak to my heart. . .He has given me a perspective I have never had. I have trusted Him throughout my life - but I always relied on my ability to get a job and all the computer experience I have and love for graphic design. Of course always giving Him the glory for each job I got - while secretly giving myself praise for my abilities. (pride is such an ugly thing) I know He is using this time for me to totaly rely on Him! To let go of the pride I harbor.

Yesterday's reading was a contrast of Isaiah & John's Heaven visions. The Seraphim shouting constantly "HOLY, HOLY, HOLY is the Lord God Almighty" - I have read those verses a lot of times and never have I become 'undone' as Isaiah & John were . . . until yesterday. . .

I am a woman if unclean heart! I could not speak only cry at the words and the realization of WHO HE IS! In Isaiah's vision they had their eyes covered but in John's vision they were 'covered with eyes' eyes that were open and looking - the difference? In the midst of them stood the Lamb that was slain! I could not look upon Him if I had been there - until the coal from the altar was touched to my heart and cleansing took place! I was undone!

Thank you Father for Your patience, Your prodding, Your unwillingness to let me wallow in my greif, but You 'etch' character into my heart with each trial and season of my life that is hard & painful.

If only we could grasp that pain equals growth. We may not fight it as much.