Lovin' My PBENJ!

Jehovah Shalom

2011-10-04T12:51:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, our pastor gave us a slip of paper with the name, "Jehovah Shalom" written on it. He had handed slips like that out to several other families within our church, all with a different name of God on it. We were then asked to find Scriptures referring to that name/character of God. This past Sunday, we each took a turn telling in our own way (whether it was to write a poem, pray, sing a song, etc) on how we've come to know and experience God (as in our case, our Jehovah Shalom) or the God of Peace.

Initially, I didn't really think I had anything to say...because in all honesty, our lives haven't been very traumatic. But on Saturday night after everyone was in bed, I sat down to write and all these examples came pouring out...

"The betrayal of a close friend. The sudden, unexpected death of my dear uncle. An unwanted phone call that threatened the possibility of ripping my family apart. A new addition to our family unit that drastically altered life as we knew it. Blood tests that have changed my daughter's health & lifestyle."

There have been others, but these were on the forefront of my mind that night. These are all instances in my life over the course of several years that initially were tainted with bits of confusion, anxiety, hurt, distrust, shock & pain. But looking back, I can see how through all of these "trials of many kinds," God has indeed been my peace.

Many people hold to the false belief that peace is simply the absence of trials and/or strife. While others live in a perpetual state of denial, fooling themselves into believing that simply because they're Christians, that their life has no problems, and that the issues at hand really aren't there. Neither of these is true. We're promised in John 16:33 that we WILL have trouble in this world...but that we can also have peace in the midst of our storms! Peace is the absolute assurance that God is in TOTAL control of ALL things at ALL times & that He is weaving every fiber of our lives together to be used for His greatest glory & our ultimate good!

Isaiah 26:3 says, "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee..." Psalm 91:1 says, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty."

Stay.

Dwell.

Rest.

The first two words mean "to live as a resident; reside. To continue to be in a place or condition. To fasten one's attention to something." When we choose to focus our mind and thoughts on Christ and His sovereignty, it gives us peace-knowing we can rest in Him. He also promises us a peace that transcends, or exceeds-goes far above & beyond our understanding of even the most difficult and unsettling circumstances when we take every situation to Him in prayer (as instructed in Philippians 4:6-8) and leave it in His hands.

These following verses are what I fall back on time after time...truths that I wrap around each situation I'm ever faced with. They serve as a "flagpole" of sorts-grounding me in His word, anchoring my mind to my Heavenly Father's concrete truths, while at the same time, freeing me to rest in His sufficiency & experience His peace. I pray they do the same for you.

Jeremiah 29:11-"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Psalm 32:8-"The Lord says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life..."

Proverbs 3:5-"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."

Romans 8:28-"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Psalm 33:4-"For the Word of our Lord holds true and everything He does is worthy of our trust."

Note that it doesn't say that everything that happens to us IS good...but that God will work it FOR our good!! Also, we may not understand, like or agree with everything God does (or allows) in our lives...however, we MUST trust Him!!! He has our best interest at heart!

False Advertising!

2011-08-03T21:09:00.001-07:00

Things are normally not as easy and simple as some people/companies/products lead you to believe! Have you discovered that for yourself yet?

Random thoughts occasionally hit me at odd times...like just now while heating myself up a late dinner. My newest addiction is microwavable soup in a can. Convenient + Cheap = Love it! When I got it out of the microwave, the words, "JUST HEAT & SIP" were staring me in the face. They make it look so much easier than it really is...NOT that it's difficult by any means; it's just that you're given only 2 steps of the entire process (and in large print on the front label). This is how it really goes (shown on the back label in tiny print, and shown here in paraphrased form):

1. Shake the can before opening.
2. Pull off the plastic cap.
3. Put it down.
4. Remove metal rim.
5. Throw away metal rim.
6. Microwave (without the lid) for 1 minute, 15 seconds.
7. Leave in microwave for an additional 1 minute.
8. Stir.
9. Put plastic cap back on.
10. NOW YOU CAN DRINK IT!!!

Isn't that somewhat like life? I've heard it said before that life's not that difficult. You just live and then you die. Well, that's partially true...you do have to live before you die. But there's so much more in between!

There are hurts, hang-ups & heartaches to endure, memories to be made, victories to be won, jobs lost, weddings & births to be celebrated, lessons to be learned, funerals to attend, misunderstandings to work through, beauty to behold, loved ones to embrace, tears to be cried, forgiveness to be extended, unexpected losses to be grieved...and the list goes on.

Having lost a very dear loved one only 2 days ago, it serves as the perfect time to remind us all...life is short. Life is uncertain. Life is not always easy! We have no guarantees of what experiences lie around the next corner, or what twists & turns the roads may take. Life may not be as simple & uncomplicated as a soup label, but we CAN have peace and stability in the midst of it all, knowing that our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ, is still in control!

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed,
yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you." Isaiah 54:10

"But the Lord is in his holy Temple;the Lord still rules from heaven.He watches everyone closely,examining every person on earth." Psalm 11:4

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:7

"So do not be afraid. I am with you. Do not be terrified. I am your God. I will make you strong and help you. My powerful right hand will take good care of you. I always do what is right." Isaiah 41:10

This Is No Joke!

2011-04-01T03:58:00.001-07:00

The kids and I made these on Monday using a craft idea from Family Fun Magazine. The first time we made them (about 5 years ago), they had so much fun pranking people at school, at church, you name it! :)

As I was reading in my quiet time this morning, I came across one of my favorite verses, Psalm 5:3. "In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation."

I have always had this visual image when I read that verse about a little boy playing a prank on a friend. I can just see him lying in wait, giddy with excitement, knowing full well that his friend is on his way.

We are also called to lay it down...lay down our requests, our needs, our anxieties and worries, our expectations, our wants...and lay them at the Lord's feet and wait in expectation...knowing full well our Lord is on His way! And that my friends, is no joke! ;)

Even in the Trivial Things...

2011-01-31T07:00:00.000-08:00

God's Word is still applicable.

Nothing deep and theological here...but wanted to share a "funny" with you! For those of you who don't see how God's Word, the Bible, deals with & applies to everyday life, check this out. The first time I ever read this verse, I thought, "Wow! God's Word even talks about garage sales!!" Read it for yourself and tell me if you agree.

“It’s no good, it’s no good!” says the buyer—
then goes off and boasts about the purchase." Proverbs 20:14

For any of you who have ever had a garage sale, you know exactly what I'm talking about.

Potential Buyer at the sale (griping about the ridiculous price you've put on the brand new, unworn, pair of jeans you bought at the Buckle for $168): "You want a dollar for these? They're not even worth a quarter!!"

Buyer later on that day : "Girl, check this out!! I bought these for a dollar! A DOLLAR!!"

Well? Ok, I'm done. Enjoy the rest of your day! :)

Measurements, Week 3

2011-01-31T04:54:00.000-08:00

Well, this past week didn't go quite as planned. Basically, I was a slacker and failed to stick to my original T-Tapp schedule. I'm telling you, I NEED a workout partner to help keep me accountable and motivated!!! But, all in all, it still wasn't a total loss because I came away with a 1 3/4" loss! I'll take anything I can get! But, starting today I'm getting back on track! It's do or die...and I'm not ready to die quite yet! ;)

Expecting great things...

3.25"

2011-01-24T04:02:00.000-08:00

Okay, here are my measurements since last week...

Chest: -1/2"
Bust: same
Ribs: same
Waist: -1/4"
Abdominals: -1/2"
Hips: same
Rt. Upper Thigh: -1/4"
Lft. Upper Thigh: -1/4"
Rt. Lower Thigh: -1/4"
Lft. Lower Thigh: -1/2"
Rt. Calf: -1/4"
Lft. Calf: -1/4"
Rt. Arm: -1/4"
Lft. Arm: same

That's 3 1/4" lost this week alone! Making for a total inch loss of 7.5" in only 2 weeks!

I dropped another couple pounds too! :)

Today will be Day 8 in T-Tapp's Bootcamp (Basic Workout Plus and Instructional #2). On Friday when I begin working out every other day (4-5 weeks), I plan to do the Total Workout.

Have a great week!! :)

T-Tapp Week 1 Measurements

2011-01-17T04:40:00.000-08:00

Well, it was a grueling week...in regards to working out, that is! Day 1 I started off determined, but my excitement quickly waned as my legs were SO very sore the next couple of days, which made it difficult to maintain proper form throughout the workouts (much less trying to walk up & down stairs, sitting down at/standing up from the table for dinner, etc)! However, I stuck it out and completed my first week (that's an accomplishment to be proud of in & of itself)!! I did the Instructional Workout #1 to get me back in the swing of things, and starting today, I'll be doing my first day of Bootcamp (Basic Workout Plus and Instructional #2 back to back). I'll probably do this combination for the next week before moving on to the Total Workout for the remainder of my time.

Here are my results so far:

Chest: -1 1/2"
Bust: same
Ribs: -1"
Waist: -3/4"
Abs: same
Hips: -1/2"
Upper Rt. thigh: same
Upper Lft. thigh: same
Lower Rt. thigh: same
Lower Lft. thigh: -1/4"
Rt. calf: same
Lft. calf: same
Rt. arm: same
Lft. arm: -1/4"

Making for a total inch loss of...4 1/4"

The results are certainly not as breathtaking as I would like...It only took me nearly 10 years to put on this weight...SURELY it should be gone after only 1 week of working out, RIGHT?? ;) Actually, when I started using T-Tapp several years ago, by the end of my very first week, I had lost 1 1/2" off my waist alone...that got me hooked! But I'm expecting even greater things this week!

Until then, Happy Tapping!!! ;)

New Year's Resolutions...More Than a Week Late!

2011-01-09T16:04:00.000-08:00

Actually, I haven't made any resolutions because I never wind up keeping them, so I figured, "What's the point?" I do however need to start exercising again. After my friend Connie & I quit working out after she hurt her foot several months ago, I just never jumped back on the bandwagon. I was reading on my friend Kara's blog, Home With Purpose, the other day and she mentioned posting her workout results (we both use T-Tapp) every week on her blog to help keep her accountable. So, I figured I would borrow her idea and attempt to do the same. I then decided to re-measure and was HORRIFIED to find that I had actually GAINED inches instead of just staying the same (not that I expected to lose anything, but to gain more?!? Come on!)! :-(

Here are my stats (in inches only...I'm NOT revealing my actual measurements):

Chest: +2 1/2"
Bust: +2 1/2"
Ribs: +2"
Waist: Miraculously stayed the same! ;)
Abs: +5 1/2" Aaaah!!! The shock, the horror!!!
Hips: +2 1/2"
Upper Right thigh: + 3/4"
Upper Left thigh: +3/4"
Lower Right thigh: ~ the same
Lower Left thigh: ~ the same
Right calf: - 1/2"
Left calf: -1/4"
Right arm: ~ the same
Left arm: ~ the same

Well, tomorrow is Day 1. Since it's been a while since I've done any exercise, I think I'm going to just do the 15 minute instructional workout and take it from there. I'll post each Monday with a new report.

Wish me luck!!! :)

Buckle Up!

2010-11-10T09:03:00.000-08:00

It's been so long since I've posted, I was half-way expecting my computer to spaz out on me from shock when I clicked on the "New Post" button. Ha! :)

Actually, today's post is not written by me. I wish I could claim it as my own though! I have had so very many ideas and word pictures that God has given me through the past several months, but at this moment in time, for reasons unbeknownst to me, He's not allowed me to expound on any of them.

When God begins preparing me for something, He repeats himself. The most recent lesson I've had to learn was, "Be Still." Everywhere I turned, everywhere I looked, everyone I spoke to had the same message: "Be Still." I certainly don't have that lesson down pat yet, but I have slowed my life down considerably from where it was. However, I think we're about to kick it up a notch. I'm honestly not quite sure what all God is up to, but I know it's big. He's given me several Bible verses & has confirmed the message to me in a variety of ways that can be summed up by saying, "Buckle Up!"

While cleaning out some papers from my computer cabinet this morning, I happened upon this story (I don't remember where I got it from, and there's no name on it either). However, I thought it was appropriate in light of what I feel may be lying ahead for me & my family.

"Years ago, I was enthralled as I listened to a pastor who for several years had faithfully served the church. His executive responsibilities had taken him all over this country. As he concluded his message, he told of one of the most frightening yet thought-provoking experiences of his life.

He had been on a long flight from one place to another. The first warning of the approaching problems came when the sign on the airplane flashed on: Fasten your seat belts. Then, after a while, a calm voice said, "We shall not be serving the beverages at this time as we are expecting a little turbulence. Please be sure your seat belt is fastened."

As he looked around the aircraft, it became obvious that many of the passengers were becoming apprehensive. Later, the voice of the announcer said, "We are so sorry that we are unable to serve the meal at this time. The turbulence is still ahead of us."

And then the storm broke. The ominous cracks of thunder could be heard even above the roar of the engines. Lightning lit up the darkening skies, and within moments that great plane was like a cork tossed around on a celestial ocean. One moment the airplane was lifted on terrific currents of air; the next, it dropped as if it were about to crash.

The pastor confessed that he shared the discomfort and fear of those around him. He said, "As I looked around the plane, I could see that nearly all the passengers were upset and alarmed. Some were praying. The future seemed ominous and many were wondering if they would make it through the storm.

Then, I suddenly saw a little girl. Apparently the storm meant nothing to her. She had tucked her feet beneath her as she sat on her seat; she was reading a book and everything within her small world was calm and orderly. Sometimes she closed her eyes, then she would read again; then she would straighten her legs, but worry and fear were not in her world. When the plane was being buffeted by the terrible storm when it lurched this way and that, as it rose and fell with frightening severity, when all the adults were scared half to death, that marvelous child was completely composed and unafraid." The minister could hardly believe his eyes.

It was not surprising therefore, that when the plane finally reached its destination and all the passengers were hurrying to disembark, our pastor lingered to speak to the girl whom he had watched for such a long time. Having commented about the storm and behavior of the plane, he asked why she had not been afraid.

The child replied, "Cause my daddy's the pilot, and he's taking me home."

There are many kinds of storms that buffet us.

Physical, mental, financial, domestic and many other storms can easily and quickly darken our skies and throw our plane into apparently uncontrollable movement. We have all known such times, and let us be honest and confess, it is much easier to be at rest when our feet are on the ground than when we are being tossed about a darkened sky.

But let us remember: Our Father is the pilot. He is in control and is taking us home. Don't worry."

"The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8

The Race

2010-07-21T20:52:00.001-07:00

In this day & time, so many things clamor for our attention, luring us away to what this world has to offer (empty promises of fulfillment & great satisfaction), when it's really just a distraction that takes us from the path God chose for us & abandons us in the middle of nowhere surrounded by brokeness, emptiness & desperation. I want to encourage each & every one of you to "throw off the sin that so easily entangles & run the race set before you with perseverance." (Hebrews 12:1)

A few weeks ago, my friend Debra & I went to exercise at the high school track. After walking (the curves)/jogging (the straights) about 3 miles, we decided to attempt jogging an entire lap. We started off strong & determined, but the farther we ran, the harder it became. My body (believe it or not), wasn't as tired as I thought it would be. The battle was centered more in my mind. I kept telling myself, "You've gone far enough. It's okay to quit. You've accomplished more than you expected. Go ahead & stop. Walk the rest of the way." Then to distract me even more, Debra started 1/2 talking to me through her gasps of air. I didn't have the breath to answer her-it was taking everything I had to remain focused on my goal. My eyes-my mind-my body-everything was fully engaged & locked in on the finish line! As I saw it drawing closer, my footsteps became that much more firm & determined to stay on track & finish strong.

It's the same way in our Christian lives. Our time here on earth is quickly drawing to a close, & Satan knows that! He is called the "Father of Lies" (John 8:44) & will do anything & everything he possibly can to get our eyes off Jesus "on whom our faith depends." (Hebrews 12:2) Whether it's through the lie that you're all alone & no one understands you, that you've messed your life up too much & it's beyond repair, or that God is holding out on you, so to go ahead & settle for less than His best...remember who your TRUE ENEMY is!

"For we are not fighting against people made of flesh & blood, but against the evil rulers & authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, & against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6:12

Keep your spiritual eyes & mind on Christ-who alone can save you!

"Don't copy the behavior & customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good & pleasing, & perfect His will really is." Romans 12:2

I pray that we will have a soft heart, open ears, a sensitive spirit, strength to endure, courage to obey whatever it is God's calling us to do, & feet that are prepared to carry us across the finish line!

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." 1 Corinthians 9:24

I'm Stuffed!!!

2010-05-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

Not physically, but I have had (and still have) quite "a lot on my plate" over the past few months...hence the reason I haven't had the chance to write in so long!

I will spare you all the nitty-gritty details, but suffice it to say I have been served three oversized helpings of life that now sit before me as I try my best to consume the portions bite by very small bite.

I know my God loves me & is working everything out for the good of those that love Him. I have nothing to fear and can trust everything He does or allows in my life & in the life of my family. But until my plate is empty & I've ingested everything God is desiring for me to learn, my presence here may be very sporadic. I covet your prayers on our behalf...we could use a good helping of peace, joy, endurance & wisdom.

So with that said, I need to go pick up my fork!

"For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things." Psalm 107:9

"So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while." 1 Peter 1:6

God's Word is Like a Smoke Detector

2010-02-17T19:33:00.000-08:00

My main priority in homeschooling N is to focus first and foremost on his character-not academics. So even though we're taking it easy on the "official" learning for now, there are so many opportunities in our day in/day out lives that lend themselves to a teachable moment. And this just so happened to be one of them...

N and I had started our devotional this morning by reading this Bible verse: "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16,17

This was the second verse: "But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says." James 1:22

As if on cue, the smoke detector in my bedroom started beeping its low battery warning! Can we say, "Teachable moment?"

I told N, "Pretend that we never changed out the battery-we ignored the warning. Then, if the house ever caught on fire, would the smoke detector be able to do its job and wake you up, alerting you to danger? It's the same thing with the Bible. His word is full of instructions, warnings-alerting you to dangers, encouragements and directions for how to live our lives and to keep us out of danger; but if we're not reading His word and putting it into practice, it doesn't do us any good either!"

And better yet, God's Word doesn't run on batteries! It's always fully charged. ;)

I'm Bringing Home My Baby!

2010-02-10T12:37:00.000-08:00

No, I didn't just give birth!

After lots of prodding by the Holy Spirit, prayers for discernment and wisdom (and lots of courage), P and I have finally made the decision to pull N out of public school.

Why, you ask? Well, do you want the short version or the long version?

The short version goes like this, "God told us to!"

The longer version goes like this (you may want to pull up a seat and stay a while for this one):

"We placed N in PPCD back in the Fall of 2004. It was a year filled with much anxiety, fear, frustration, trips to the principal, etc, but yet, looking back, it was by far his best year of the 6! He should have come home a long time ago! I homeschooled our oldest 2, J & E, for a couple of years and really enjoyed it. But N needed some extra help that I didn't feel I was prepared to give him at the time-and to be quite honest, I needed a break! So, off to school he went. After the year in PPCD was completed, we made the decision to put J & E in public school, but I felt God leading me to pull Noah back out and bring him home with me. P didn't agree (and being the leader of the household, we did what he thought was best and let him continue on in Kinder).

Each year has progressively gotten worse...we've had so many talks with the teachers, visits with the principals, ISS days, swats, lunch detentions, apologies to other children...you name it, we've done it! My mind is literally boggled at the thought of all we've been through-I may write a book one day. ;) All the while, I felt God telling me to pull him out. Yet, P was adamantly opposed to the idea. So anytime the thought of homeschooling came to mind, I would just tell God, "I hear you, but you're going to have to change P's heart. There's nothing I can do."

Well, a few months ago, I got a(nother) phone call from the PE teacher telling me everything N had been doing that day in class. I got really frustrated with him and under my breath mumbled, "What am I going to DO with him???" Then God very plainly said, "It is NOT what are you going to do WITH him! He is NOT the problem. It's about to be what are you going to do FOR him!?" Very humbled, I apologized and then started grappling about in fear with questions..."But God, I can't even teach 3rd grade!!" Again, I heard his voice say, "He's not even on a 3rd grade level!" I started getting excited about the thought, but once again, told him, "You're going to have to talk to P about that one." A few minutes later, P came to pick me up for a lunch date, and as we sat talking, I told him once again (we've had this conversation many times over the years) what I felt God leading me to do...and ended with saying, "I know you don't agree..." He cut me off by saying, "Bethany, I am NOT opposed to you pulling him out!" I about fell out of my chair-I KNEW this was God!!! I continued on with my story and told him of my fear-questioning whether I would be able to teach 3rd grade (remember, I had done K and 1st before, but never beyond that), when P interrupted me again by saying, "Bethany, he's not even on a 3rd grade level!" I just started crying because 1) I knew in my heart that God had answered my prayer by changing my husband's heart, and 2) because I was so overwhelmed with the thought of all the changes that were about to take place (homeschooling was not the only change God had been opening my eyes to)! I honestly felt like I was standing in front of a tidal wave that was going to crash over me at any moment and I was totally helpless to stop it!

Over the next few days, I started asking God, "Now what do I do in the meantime? You've told us to pull him out, but when? Do I start reading, researching, etc? Show me what to do!" That very morning, when I went to check the mail, my dear friend Lori (Hi!!) had sent me two books-one on discovering your child's learning style and another one on the top 100 homeschool curriculums. Can we say, "Answer to prayer?" I began to read (that was what I did all week in Arkansas when I went to visit my brother while he was at work), but didn't really feel any further leading.

Eventually, I sensed God telling me to bring N home, but I didn't...I needed more confirmation to make "sure" I was hearing him properly...as if the stories above weren't enough.

Then several weeks ago, God spoke to me again through this situation. I had told N to do "something" and he failed to obey immediately. When I called him on it, he said, "I did too obey!" Then I heard myself saying, "No you didn't. Obedience is doing exactly what you're told immediately when you're told to do it." I sensed the Holy Spirit saying that to my soul as I was saying them to my son. Ugh!

Have I mentioned yet that I'm a big planner? Ya, well, I still didn't obey Him, because I needed time to plan and read some more and organize, etc, etc, etc. Then...I told J to go start the dryer. She's normally pretty cooperative, but this time she started stalling and asking me a zillion questions that sounded like this, "But how do I...? What if...? But then if...? How can...?" Then it dawned on me as I told her, "J, you don't have to worry about any of that. Just do what you were told to do." AGAIN, the Holy Spirit told me the SAME thing!!! I'm pretty hard headed, huh?

The last thing God used was my dearly loved sister-in-law, Angie. She has a true gift from God, and she sees so clearly through things and speaks directly to the heart of a problem unlike anything or anyone I've ever seen! We were chatting on Facebook one day just a couple of weeks ago, and the first thing she asked me was, "Have you pulled Noah out of school yet?" I told her no, and her response was, "I say this in all love, but sister, you know exactly what you need to do."

Here I am a couple of weeks later and have YET to obey Him! Yet, God is not and will not give up on me! As I was driving home this morning from dropping the kids off at school, for some odd reason, I began to recall the scene from when the nurse wheeled E into my room at the hospital. Noone was with me at the time, and I began to panick! I had already had one baby, mind you, but for some reason, I started thinking to myself, "What am I supposed to do with him??? Take him back!!" Ha! I was overcome with the same terrifying feeling thinking about bringing N home from school, and I heard God saying, "You'll figure it out. Just take it one day at at a time."

So, I have now printed out the withdrawal form, and will mail it off tomorrow. I'll inform the school that Friday will be his last day and then I'll get to bring my baby home!

Yes, I'm still terrified! Humanly speaking that is. But God has made it SO abundantly clear that this is what He's calling us to do though, that spiritually I'm at peace.

There is much, MUCH more to this story, but this is all I have time for at the moment. I covet your prayers for all of us as we begin this new journey!

We All Need a Good Washing!

2010-02-04T08:24:00.000-08:00

I admit...I hate getting my hands dirty-especially when it comes to washing dishes! It makes me shudder to even think of touching left-over food on a plate that one of my kids didn't scrape off into the trash, or to clean out the mystery dish(es) that've been forgotten in the fridge a litle too long!

So to avoid having to touch them, I use one of these little gems:

Unfortunately though, it still doesn't work on everything as well as I would like. Take for example, this one set of measuring spoons I have. They're smaller on the bottom for 1/2 the amount and then get wider at the top for the full amount...leaving a little ledge that has to be cleaned by hand.

As I was washing it out yesterday, this thought came to mind...Depending on what I last used it for (Peanut butter vs. salt for example), a simple quick rinse in cold water from the faucet may not be good enough to clean the spoon properly...much in the same way that a quick rinse in God's living water may not be enough to clean our hearts either.

Have you ever sat down at a restaurant and opened the napkin to find a dirty piece of silverware? Do you overlook the dried on, crusty piece of food attached to your spoon/fork and continue to use it, or do you give it back to the waiter and ask for a clean one? Ya, we both know what the answer to that one is! ;)

We are utensils in God's hands. He cannot overlook the sin or bad habits that have attached themselves to our lives and continue to use us for His kingdom work! He loves us and wants to use us...but first, we need a good washing!

Depending on the issue that's at hand, sometimes God has to turn on the hot water, and allow us to soak a while. When the time is right, He'll roll up his sleeves and get up close and personal with us while He really scrubs us deep down in order to remove all the baked on, putrid, rotten, smelly sin out of our hearts until it finally lets loose and comes to the suface.

When you feel like you're about to drown in problems that are swirling about, or you feel swamped in a life that isn't exactly as easy or comfortable as you would like...perhaps you're stuck in a job where you desperately want out-don't jump up and run away. Seek God's will in the matter first. Maybe you need to soak a while in order for God to soften some hardened areas...things you may not even be aware of. Ask Him-He'll show you...and eventually, you'll be able to see His reflection in your life.

"Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin?" Proverbs 20:9

"Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water." Hebrews 10:22

"Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin." Psalm 51:2

"But now, this is what the LORD says..."Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior..." Isaiah 43:1-3

I'm Going to Connecticut!

2010-02-03T07:25:00.000-08:00

Yes, just call me the world traveler. ;) I just got back from Arkansas and Missouri, and now I'm heading off even further up North! The story of how this came about still cracks me up, so I thought I'd post it.

I was at my friend Connie's house looking around on her computer for the Gaither Vocal Band's tour schedule. They came down our way a few years ago and I was hoping they would be doing the same sometime this year as well. Unfortunately, they weren't scheduled to be in our area, but I was even more excited to find that they were going to be in Myrtle Beach, SC the weekend of my birthday in October! I went to Myrtle Beach 13 1/2 years ago and have wanted to go back ever since!

So, I went into the living room and told Connie, "Paul said I can have a get-away twice a year, and the Gaither's are going to be in Myrtle Beach the weekend of my birthday! Let's go!!!" She started to give me excuse after excuse..."I don't have enough money, etc." I told her, "We have 10 months to save up, Connie! Let's do it!"

Then she remembered that her sister-in-law Shelly (married to her brother Ronny) has a brother who just "happens" to own a condo on Myrtle Beach! She said, "Oh! I wonder if they would possibly let us use the condo??" IMMEDIATELY as soon as the words came out of her mouth, a text message came through on her cell phone from her brother Ronny and all it said was, "No!" We busted out laughing! As soon as she caught her breath, she called him up and when he answered she asked, "What do you mean, NO??" He explained that she had just sent him a text asking if he was still asleep? Apparently, a text she sent the night before (and meant to send to another friend) wound up getting sent to her brother! :)

She then told him what we were discussing and he said, "Connie! Shelly and I were just talking about wanting to go see the Gaither's! Why don't y'all come up here? They're playing 45 minutes from our house in March." He booked our flight, purchased our concert tickets (7th row) and so Connie and I are flying to Connecticut in March!!!!

I just love a story with a happy ending, don't you?! :)

Our Life-His Purpose

2010-01-28T08:03:00.000-08:00

What comes to your mind when you hear the word, "Surrender?" Maybe it's just me, but I think of captivity. A burden. To give up. Not much hope.

Now what comes to your mind when you hear the word, "Abandon?" To me, it makes me think of freedom and possibilities...in relation to Christ that is.

Lately, I've been feeling God wanting me to walk down a certain path that humanly I don't feel quite ready or prepared for. I'm a planner at heart and haven't been able to spend an adequate amount of time preparing for this role...I have books to read, people to talk to, etc, etc, etc. It's hard to let go and trust sometimes...yet I know He'll prepare the way. His plan is so much greater than my own!

One of my favorite prayers I heard in my Mother Wise Bible Study several years ago goes like this, "Lord, bind my mind to your mind and my thoughts to your thoughts. Bind my heart to your heart, my will to your will, and bind my life to YOUR purposes."

I envision this stem of a flower or vine growing together in the same direction...our minds, thoughts, hearts and wills entertwining with His and becoming one. Yet when it comes to letting go-abandoning our lives to His purposes, He grows each one of us out in the direction that He's chosen-allowing us to grow, taking root and blooming...ministering to those around us, using the gifts He has given us.

Don't just "surrender" yourself to Christ today, but abandon yourself to Him! He's up to something in each and every one of our lives if we will simply follow His lead.

"Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts..." Hebrews 3:14

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

Are You Breaking His Heart?

2010-01-21T12:00:00.000-08:00

My heart was crushed, my trust broken, my dreams shattered.

I was desperate for his love. I longed for him to be true to me...only me.

But he wasn't.

He would keep me at a distance-giving me just a taste of the delicasies my heart desired, to keep me coming back and begging for more with promises of the good stuff...but would be sorely disappointed to be fed only scraps.

His words would lure me in and then I would take the bait...only to find myself trapped in the undertow-which would suck me under, then allow my heart to come up momentarily gasping for air, only to be sucked under once more.

Sadly, this describes a relationship I was in several years ago. After being separated from this man for about a month and a half, I met my (now) husband. With the excitement of a new relationship, I didn't take the time to sift through all the hurt and confusion. So I just stashed it in the recesses of my mind-assuming the memories would decay and fall apart on their own...yet 13 years later, I found out that God had something He wanted to teach me through my pain.

A couple of weeks ago, God dusted off the box, and allowed it to resurface. He lovingly forced me to sift through the ashes while I sat at His feet. I had no idea what He was about to show me!

I asked Him at one point, "Your Word says that you've experienced everything we've gone through and that you know our hurts...but Jesus, you were single! How in the world did you experience this kind of pain??"

I was not expecting this response. This is what He told me:

"Because that's exactly how much my heart breaks when you put other people/things in my place."

WOW!!!

Humbled, I started crying all over again...but this time, it wasn't over what had happened TO me so long ago. It was what I had done TO Jesus here and now.

I had no idea! I had ignorantly believed that He a) didn't care or b) was mad when I allowed my heart to wander. How differently I see it now.

Allow Him to search your heart and see what He shows you.

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life." Psalm 139:22-24

Let it Rain, Let Him Reign

2010-01-05T07:18:00.001-08:00

I was just cleaning out some of my old pictures from my SD card and happened upon this one. I realize it's very dark, but I had to capture what I could of the moment, and this is the best I could do. Sorry! ;)

The day this picture was taken, we were in the middle of a drought. Both physical and spiritual. I believe the yearly average for rain fall between the months of January through July is like 23"...up until this point, we had maybe 1 1/2-2". Spiritually, my heart felt just as dried up as the dirt here on our place. Satan was waging war in our marriage, on my husband, in our kids...it was not a pleasant time for our family!

The kids and I were sitting outside on the swing set when we noticed a pretty massive, dark rain cloud. I personally love thunder storms so I half-heartedly asked God to let it rain simply so I could listen to the thunder and watch the lightning. Then P came outside, and he and the boys took off down the driveway on their bicycles while J and I made our way to the picnic table in the back yard. We sat and talked about lots of different things, and I told her, "It's going to rain. I just feel it. I don't know when and I don't know how much, but it's going to rain." We started praying and thanking God for the rain that He would eventually send our way. Little did I know that at that exact moment, P and the boys were at the end of the driveway watching the storm cloud that was drifing away from us, turn and come back right over our house. The wind began to blow like we've never seen it...my cap blew off across the yard, the wooden bench began to roll across the pasture...the rain drops started blowing sideways, and then hitting us so hard, it felt like we were in the middle of a sand storm!! The thunder and lighting was astounding!!! It was an amazing sight...seeing my children watch with their own eyes...seeing God answering their/our prayers. N was literally down on his face worshipping and thanking God for the rain we so desperately needed! J and E were praising him and thanking him, jumping up and down with excitement! I finally took shelter in our garage and watched from a distance as my chilren and husband continued to play in the storm. At that moment, God said to me, "This is the first of what's to come. Not just physical rain, but spiritual as well."

It's been a rough road to walk at times, but I know my God and I can trust my God. He can create something out of nothing. And He is my true shelter from the storm! Let Him be yours as well!

"You gave abundant showers, O God; you refreshed your weary inheritance." Psalm 68:9

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

2009-12-25T21:58:00.000-08:00

I realize that it's only a couple of minutes away from being the day after Christmas, but this is the first chance I've had all day to sit down at my computer. We started off our morning here at the house and watched the kids open their gifts. Then we went to my parent's house for a few hours and then spent the rest of the evening at my in-law's. It's been a day full of family and friends and food!

I wanted to share with you one tradition that my parents started with me and my siblings while growing up-a birthday cake for Jesus. Since having children of my own, we've also decided to carry on this tradition, but we've added/changed a few details.

1. We make our cake round to represent the world.

2. We make it chocolate to represent sin.

3. We top the cake with white frosting representing how we are washed clean/forgiven when you accept Christ as your Savior.

4. We put Red icing and candles on the cake representing Christ's shed blood on the cross for us.

5. We eat the cake for breakfast. It's the one and only time of year when my children are allowed to do that, and they love it!

I hope every one of you had a wonderful day celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

Happy Birthday, Jesus!!!

The Holidays Are Upon Us

2009-12-10T20:10:00.000-08:00

And all I've managed to do so far is to make a list of gift ideas (that was just done today). Note, nothing has actually been purchased yet! In fact, we don't even have a tree up, decorations out, nothing! Nada! Zilch! None!

And yet surprisingly, I'm not even stressed over it. God has really been showing me that I need to slow down, enjoy my surroundings, focus on Him and the true meaning of Christmas more...instead of rushing here and there in search of the right Christmas presents. Hopefully I'll make some more progress soon...in the upcoming week or so, but just wanted to encourage you fellow slackers (if there are any out there) to slow down enough to enjoy yourself and to cherish the real gifts this Christmas...mainly, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Arkansas Bound

2009-11-29T04:44:00.000-08:00

I'll be heading out the door in about 15 minutes for a week away in Arkansas. God has been leading me to read a couple of books that I have just not had time for, so I'm anticipating some good quiet time to read, relax and reflect on all that God has been doing in my life (and in the life of my family), and what He's calling us to do.

I would covet any and all prayers on my behalf this week to clearly hear God's voice and to heed his direction...(as well as for safe travel on my behalf and for my family as I'm away from them).

Looking forward to sharing some things when I return!

Until then...

"It's Just Going Too Fast!"

2009-10-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

When I tuck my 3 kids into bed each night, I always pray with them. They also enjoy having me sit in their rooms with them to visit for a bit too. I must admit, I normally have so many other "irons in the fire" that I tend to just squeeze in a minute or two of chit-chat and then rush on about my business so that I too can get some sleep!

Last night however, was not one of those nights. While I was folding laundry and the boys were finishing up dinner, J asked me, "If I go to bed right now, would you have time to visit with me for a while?" I said yes, so she literally jumped in bed right then! After I instructed the 2 boys on what needed to be done, and put the laundry down, I wound up lying in her bed visiting and talking about anything and everything from dolls, to scrapbooking to school, etc. She was holding my hand, which I find sweet, yet also amusing (she is physically affectionate, yet she knows she has something to hold onto in attempts to pull me back in once I try to walk away). ;) I was about ready to make my rounds through my boy's rooms when E walked in and said, "When are you going to come pray with me??" I got slightly irritated with him for having gotten out of bed in the first place and not trusting me to keep my word. All I said was, "I suggest you make your way back to your room right now. I will be in there in just a minute."

After having prayed with N, I went to find E. I explained to him why I was upset with him, but he didn't say a word. I then lied down to visit with him for a minute, and he handed me one of the books he had taken to bed with him. It was by Karen Kingsbury (if you have never read this book, be forewarned, it is a MAJOR tear jerker!!! If you have read it, then you'll totally understand where I'm coming from) called, "Let Me Hold You Longer." I assumed he was wanting me to read it to him, when he said, "I'm upset." When I asked why, he opened it to the last page and said, "Read this and you'll know." I thought the book just made him sad, but then he started boo-hooing and said, "It's just going too fast!!! I never want that day to come! I just love you so much, I can't ever let you go!"

I instantaneously felt guilt for having corrected him without finding out why he had come to look for me, and my heart melted at the same time. I just held on to him and cried with him.

So hold on to your kids and cherish every moment, because the time is going by way too fast!

"Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him." Psalm 127:3

“Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered—how fleeting my life is." Psalm 39:4

"Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is." Ephesians 5:15-17

Just Lay It Down

2009-10-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

While attempting to send a text message to my cousin earlier this morning, something dawned on me. My phone doesn't seem to send texts very well while I'm holding the phone in my hand. The majority of the time, after I finish typing, I have to go lay the phone on the kitchen counter (by the window) in order for them to go through (I don't know if it's due to our metal roof, if we perhaps live in a dead-zone, or if my phone is just old...? But any way you look at it, it's still frustrating)!

Think of the phone in terms of being our hopes, our dreams, our cares and concerns. We try to hold on to them, over see the process, and maintain control. However, God wants us to lay them down. When we release the cares of this world and roll them onto His back, He carries them for us. He alone knows what is best and has promised to provide for our every need. He is our Jehovah-jireh, our Provider.

Lately, God has begun to disassemble the puzzle of my life that I've been attempting to piece together over the past 8 years, and has started to create a totally different picture than what I had originally planned. Humanly, it's terrifying, yet at the same time, it's exciting to see Him at work! I'm learning step by baby-step to walk in faith, trust Him, and to release the dreams of what I expected my life to look like and to lay it down...at His feet.

Our God is a good God, a loving God, an all-knowing God. Worthy of our praise, our adoration and our trust. Are you getting frustrated by trying to piece your life together on your own? Are you tired of not getting a signal and needing direction?

Lay your life down so that He can pick you up. It's the best upgrade you could ever hope for!

Dark Clouds, Blue Skies

2009-10-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

The weather outside this morning reminded me of a conversation my daughter and I had several years back when she was little. J has always had a pretty laid back kind of personality, not one to get in much trouble. But for some reason, during this particular season of her life, she had been testing the boundaries left and right. So we stepped up to the challenge, giving her a fair trade...one consequence for every wrong and disobedient action on her part. Instead of it softening her heart, thus changing her behavior, she started taking it personally and told me sadly one day, "I'm just a bad kid." This word picture just popped in my head as we were sitting outside and I told her, "Honey, look up at the sky. What color is it?" She responded as I knew she would, "Gray." "Nope, it's not gray," I said. She looked confused. Indeed, it was very dark and cloudy that day (as it is today), but there just happened to be one small 'hole' where the clouds were parted and you could see plainly the true color of the sky...blue. I told her, "You are a blue sky. That is how God created you and how he sees you. But your sin and disobedience are like those gray clouds-covering up your true colors." It seemed to make sense to her and helped change her outlook on herself.

I think we all get down on ourselves occasionally when we tend to repeat the same mistake over and over, even though we know it's not right. Or we continually fall back into our sinful ways and thought patterns we once held onto before we came to Christ. We begin to believe Satan's lies (he is referred to as the Father of lies in John 8:44) and take his accusations personally (he is also referred to as the Accuser in Revelation 12:10), instead of seeing ourselves how God does. In Ephesians 1:3-8 listen to what God has to say about us:

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, in Christ; for He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will, to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored us with in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding."

You and I are: *Blessed, *Chosen, *Adopted, *Favored, *Redeemed, *Forgiven

Do you see yourself as a gray cloud or as a blue sky? I know the illustration is a little child-like, but sometimes that's the level I work best on. ;) I pray that today "you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32

"Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him." Romans 6:7,8

There is a Time for Everything Under Heaven

2009-10-15T09:10:00.000-07:00

And apparently, much to my dismay, this season I'm in is one for not writing! The words just aren't there. I long for the day when this blockage is removed and the words flow effortlessly and smoothly from my brain through my fingers, down onto the keyboard.

Don't give up on me! I will be back!

This too shall pass...hopefully sooner than later. ;)

I Love My Seester!

2009-09-25T21:51:00.001-07:00

These are just some random pictures of my sister and me taken about a month ago on my niece's birthday outing. We had SO much fun together that day...lots and lots of laughs!! I could list so many different inside jokes, but they're just that-inside jokes. Noone else would understand and get quite the same kick out of them! The Bible says that "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22 Needless to say, when we get together, we overdose!!!

Sara, here are some insiders that I thought you would appreciate:

1. A wooden hairbrush and a curling iron.
2. Dancing in Marble Slab gets you free ice cream!
3. An airplane pilot and being held hostage.
4. "I can't see..." "You can't see???"
5. "Grab your sacks."
6. "Sara, you've always wanted to be George!"
7. "Oh crap!!" "What?" "WHAT?" "I don't know! You're the one that said, "Oh crap!!"
8. "Ridin' with my top down, listenin' to my Jesus Music" and Sonic.
9. "Get away from me! You stink horribly!!!"
10. Green gum.
11. Cara: "Look at this! I said LOOK AT THIS!!!!"

I could go on, but suffice it to say, thanks for many a laugh!!! I love you and am thankful to have you as my sister!!!

It Doesn't Get Any Better Than This!

2009-09-22T07:12:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of Fall-by far, my favorite time of year!!! And to make it even better, our first cool front blew in this morning too...complete with thunder and lightning!!! Another one of my favorite things! I just had to share my excitement with you!

On another note, I have so many thoughts and ideas rolling around in my head on things that I'm dying to blog on, but they seem to be getting stuck somewhere inside my brain...pray for release!! ;)

Until then...

Prayers for the Fielder Family

2009-09-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

My very good friend Rebecca went home to be with her Lord & Savior yesterday evening after a long, hard battle with cancer.

This picture is of Rebecca and our third Amigo, Tina, taken just a couple of months ago. Unfortunately, even with all the time we spent together, I don't have any pictures of us! Even with her sickness drawing to a close in her body, she still had a sparkle in her eye and joy in her heart!

I spoke with her husband (she always referred to him as "My beloved") Bobby this morning, and he's really at a loss...understandably so. Rebecca has 3 boys...her eldest Mitchell McCall (she called him "My Mitchell"), Austin and "Mr." Aaron. In fact, she called Aaron that so often, one day I was drawing a blank on his middle name and I asked him as I was buckling him up in our car, "What's your middle name?" He said, "Aaron." I said, "No, your first name is Aaron." He came back with, "No, it's my middle name." I then said, "Your name is Aaron _____ Fielder." And he said, "My name is Mr. Aaron Fielder!" Ha-ha-ha!!! She also has one little grandson, Lyric Micah McCall.

Rebecca was such a Godly woman, speaking Scriptures, encouraging you, looking on the bright side of things, never one to complain!! She and I got to be very good friends a little over 8 years ago-right after Aaron was born...and even as close as we were, she was still a very closed, private person. She never liked to focus on herself and her cancer...never one to offer up information, but leaving one to ask point-blank questions. She would answer (sometimes indirectly) and then change the subject. :) That was Rebecca!

I think her two favorite words were, "Yes, Dear!" If you talked to her longer than 10 seconds, you were all but guaranteed to be called, "Dear." And dear she was!

I will truly miss my friend, but take comfort in the fact that this separation is only temporary. We shall be together again in Heaven!

In the meantime, please keep her family in your prayers as she is leaving behind a huge void in their lives, yet such a tremendous legacy!!!

I'm Not Sure I Even Remember How to Do This Anymore!?

2009-09-08T12:05:00.000-07:00

It's been SO very long since I've blogged...I've meant to, I want to...but the time just seems to escape me! And I don't like doing anything half-heartedly, so I figure it's better to say nothing at all until I can gather my thoughts and organize them in a reasonably understandable manner. :)

But you've been waiting so very patiently during my absence, I could at least give you a quick run-down on what's been going on in our world.

1.School is now back in full swing! We made the choice to move our daughter to the private Christian school here in town and she is LOVING it!!! I can't tell you how many tears were shed last year over not wanting to go to school, due to the girl's making fun of her or leaving her out, the mean teachers (trust me, I've seen it for myself...there was reason to cry!), etc. The school she's in has 17 kids ranging in age from preschool (2 years old) to high school. It's self-paced and as long as she completes her work and stays out of trouble, there are field trips every Friday!

2. The boys are still attending the local elementary school, and so far-so good. We hope to move them to the private school for next school year, but in the meantime, we're encouraging them to continue being God's light in a dark world.

3. I'm no longer working at our church (can't remember if I've already posted that info), so I can stay home during the day. It's amazing how much you can truly get accomplished when you're not having to leave in the middle of the day for a couple of hours! :)

My brain is so fried, I can't think of any other updates at the moment. But as a reward for reading this far, here's a picture of my three on the first day of school...(pre Jamie's hair getting fixed). ;)

Until next time...

I'm Still Here!

2009-08-23T05:33:00.000-07:00

I promise I haven't walked away from the blogging world! This Summer has by far been the busiest one we've ever had!!! I haven't even had much time to think, much less put those mumbled, jumbled thoughts down for the world to read!

So...I thought I would just check in to let you know I'm still here and fully intend to begin writing again once my world settles down a little...which in essence means, tomorrow, August 24th. First Day of School!

"Heaven came down and glory filled my soul..."

Stay tuned! ;)

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-23T13:55:00.000-07:00

While my boy's are outside, and J is helping her daddy make dinner, I thought I'd squeeze in a few minutes to make my "Thankful Thursday" entry before I forget. Some friends of mine tend to have a theme running through their lists, and I suppose on occasion you might find one on mine. However, randomnenss is my specialty! So, staying true to my nature, that's what you're going to get today!

1. When I lived in WV 13 years ago, I had a very good friend named Chris. He was a police officer, and when he was off duty, he worked security at the Putt-Putt where I worked. He was engaged, and I was dating someone at the time, so there was nothing going on-we were just really great friends. Several people at work claimed to be Christians and even went to church, but their day-in, day-out lives weren't any different from the rest of the world. Chris however, lived the life. When I left West Virginia, I left with the intention of returning, so I didn't get anyone's addresses or phone numbers. For those of you who know me, know that's not how my story ended up. I've thought about him and even tried looking for him throughout the years, but "Chris Little" is a very common name...makes it kind of difficult to track someone down! However, I am so happy to report...that Chris found me on Facebook July 3rd! It's been great reconnecting with a long, lost friend!!! He left law enforcement and now is a professional singer/piano player with a Southern Gospel Group called, Forgiven. I promise to post a video of them soon.

2. I'm thankful for my children who are openly loving with me, and tell me repeatedly things throughout the day such as, "I love you!" or "You're the best mom in the world!" Actually, E came up to me yesterday and said, "Who WOULDN'T love you??" That's one smart kid!! Ha! :)

3. God very plainly, matter-of-factly told me a while back to stop eating sugar. I thought it would be easy to do, but instead, I've really struggled. But I'm happy to say that today is Day 7 of absolutely NO processed carbs, and NO refined sugar!! As Beth Moore says, "Thus far, the Lord has helped me!" And I am truly thankful that He has!

4. I'm thankful that I was finally able to get some answers with our youngest son! I took him to a local Christian counselor, but she was very gracious and admitted that he is totally out of their league. We're now in the process of trying to choose a Child Psychiatrist. We would covet your continued prayers in that regard.

5. And last but not least, I'm very thankful for a day just to hang out here at home. This summer has been extremely busy with everyone running in different directions! Today was a nice change of pace though, with everyone just being here together.

Chances

2009-07-21T21:19:00.000-07:00

Death suddenly whisked you away like a strong, Summer wind.
Now it's standing firmly, trying hard not to bend.
Fearing that I too will slip out of life's arms.
Afraid of what is to come,
Not wanting to face anymore harm.

Now that you're gone, our lives have all changed.
Every day is different,
Nothing is the same.

I often sit and think of you, remembering the past.
It seems as though you're still here with me,
You just came and went so fast.

There's so much I wanted to share with you, but I kept it all inside.
And now that you aren't here, my chances have been denied.

Don't Jump to Conclusions!

2009-07-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

I feel the need to preface this post with an explanation.

I love writing, but it also makes me feel very vulnerable, and exposed at times...kind of like when I was walking towards the bus stop in 7th grade only to realize that my brother's friend Dalton was walking behind me the entire time holding my skirt up! I was mortified!! Putting my writings out there for all the world to see (it would probably be more accurate to say, "for the 2 of you readers to see") puts that same feeling in my gut.

Now to the explanation...I haven't written poetry in years! The majority of my writings were done in high school. And to be honest, a lot of it is dark. However, I have never dealt with most of the topics I've written on...I've never been depressed, have never contemplated suicide, my mother's never died (thankfully!!), etc. So, PLEASE don't assume I'm hiding some deep, dark secrets or need to have an intervention called on me!!

Now...with that said, here's my first poem I've chosen to post per my friend Ginny's request.

TORN

I'm afraid to reveal to you my true feelings-
Simply because I'm afraid of admitting them to myself.
How can I live-
Knowing I've pledged my life to one
When secretly I've given my heart to another?
How can I say that I love him with my head...
But I love you with my heart?
This will have to remain our little secret-
Yours and mine.
Never to reveal my true feelings to him-
It would crush and utterly destroy his world!

I suddenly feel trapped!

How do you trust that God's will is perfect in circumstances such as this?

Do I continue lying to myself...to him...to you?

I want you to know me-
The real me.
I want to bare my soul to you.
I want to throw off all these hindrances,
All these facades.
I have to be honest...

I'm in love with you!

I have loved you from the first time we met...
And I will love you forever.

Questions begin echoing through my mind-
Questions of integrity and morality.

I just have to ask,
Do you feel the same way towards me?
Or am I making a fool of myself?

I long to see you!
Yet I'm terrified!
Will my true feelings show for you?
How could they not?

Why?
Why now??
Why not 10 years ago???
Maybe I could have saved you-
Sparing you the emptiness, loneliness and pain you've experienced,
And you could have done the same for me.

It's not fair!

Yes, I love him.
I made a choice to love him.
I made a promise.
But with you...
I can never escape the thought of you.
You've consumed me for days, months, years...
Longing to find you,
To reconnect our hearts together once more.

I can't wait for sleep to come.
Only then can I be with you,
Unhindered by reality.

Then it's like you never even left-
I can still see your face.
Hear your laugh.
Taste your kiss.

I want to hold your hands in mine-
Even if only for a brief moment.
But I couldn't bear to let you go!
Afraid that 13 more years will pass-
Only to lose you again.
I can't do that to my heart.

Yet I have to ask myself,
Which is more painful...?
Not knowing where you are, yet holding you close in my dreams...
Or being so close to you, yet knowing I can't have you?

But I need you!

Just trust that my heart belongs to you.

Nothing!

Time.
Distance.
People.
Circumstances.

Nothing will ever change the fact that my heart is yours.

I love you!

I Was Hairless When Hairless Wasn't Cool!

2009-07-16T12:14:00.001-07:00

Kind of like the song, "I Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool."

I was diagnosed with Alopecia Areata when I was in 4th grade, back in 1985. My mom happened upon a couple of bald spots on my scalp one day, and have since undergone numerous shots (15-20 per spot) and several different creams throughout the years to try to treat it, in hopes of getting my hair to grow back. Thankfully, it doesn't affect my scalp as severely as it does the rest of my body. Somewhere along the way, the hair on my arms and legs has disappeared...which makes shaving a thing of the past. I honestly can't complain at all in that regard!!

Now fast forward 20+ years:

J's going into the 6th grade this fall and wanted to start shaving, but was/is afraid of cutting herself with a razor. So, she decided she wanted to try these instead:

Have you seen them on TV or in the store? Since when did it become fashionable to look like you have Alopecia?? I totally get not wanting hair on your legs and under your arms (I unfortunately still have to shave there). But the commercials show these women using these crystals on their faces, arms, underarms, legs, etc. Why haven't there been commercials all these years showing women shaving their faces and their arms??

Not much of a point here in this post. I just find it ironic. Now then, don't you feel smarter after reading this? ;)

Thankful Thursday...

2009-07-02T21:44:00.000-07:00

And I only have 15 minutes left before I'll have to retitle it, "Forgetful Friday!" I try, I try.

1. I'm thankful that my good friend's Cippi & Robin have a healthy, beautiful baby boy (Riley Mark) as of last Thursday, June 25th. And even more thankful that they don't mind me and my children hanging out over there each and every day to see him...and them too of course! ;)

2. I'm thankful for my sister, who my children lovingly refer to as "SaSa." She's volunteered to take them to a movie tomorrow, which will give this Momma a break for a couple of hours! Sara, you're the best!

3. And while I'm taking a break from my children, I'm thankful that I get to spend it having some girl time/shopping with my wonderful sister-in-law Renee! I've known her and her family for 21 years and 11 months...her mom was my Diabetes educator when I was diagnosed at the ripe old age of 10.

4. I'm thankful that my brother Mark and sister-in-law Renee (see above) are expecting Bebe Numero Dos!! I'm going to be an aunt again!!! I can't wait!

5. And lastly (for tonight), I'm thankful that I can sleep in tomorrow, and don't have to get up early at the crack of dawn like I did today...since my husband forgot his house key (in the house), and woke us up by beating on our bedroom window. It's been a long day and I need some rest!

Good night all!

Baker Kid's Comedy Hour

2009-07-02T21:16:00.000-07:00

I happened upon some funnies that I had written down on the kids last night and wanted to share. Of course you may not get the chuckle out of them that I did, but then again, that's my right as the parent to think they're hilarious. ;)

1. E (7 years) announced, "I know why we hold hands when we pray! So we won't eat the food!"

2. The rice that I was making for dinner wasn't through cooking, but N (6) was hungry, so I decided to go ahead and let him eat what was already prepared. I put a little bit of chicken and some vegetables on his plate, and when I put it in front of him at the table, he put his hands on the sides of his head and shook it while saying, "Gweat!! We must be poor!"

3. J and E (8 & 7) were playing together, but J didn't want to do anything that E suggested. Frustrated, he came to me and asked, "Does J even HAVE an imagination?? Because she never uses it!"

4. On Sunday, January 1, 2006, J (7) was told to clean her room. She said, "Do I have to??" When I told her yes, she replied with, "But Mom, it's the Sabbath!"

5. Just one day later (1/2/06), we were outside watching the kid's play with their battery operated Jeep they got for Christmas the week before. J attempted to run down E (who were both laughing hysterically), not realizing he could have gotten hurt...she thought since it was just a "toy" car it wouldn't do any damage. Once we got her stopped and explained otherwise to her, N (5) immediately runs and lays down in front of the Jeep. When we told him to get up, he said, "But I need to learn my lesson the hard way!"

6. In December of 2006, we took a family vacation to Red River, New Mexico. Upon arriving in our cabin for the night, N excitedly runs around to check everything out. He runs into the kitchen and hollers out, "AWWW!!! The kid's even have their OWN TV!!!" It was a microwave.

7. E (7) and N (6) were in the backseat of our car fighting over a black crayon. Both boys claimed it was their own. E finally stopped arguing and said, "God, YOU know the truth...and HE ain't tellin' it!!!"

8. Again, E (7) and N (6) were arguing over a toy that N had taken away from E...and again, we were in the car. Yes, this scenario happens OFTEN. E says, "Tell N to give me back my toy!" N responds with, "I don't have it!! I put it in that...whatever it's called." Without missing a beat, E said, "Ya, it's called 'in your pocket.'"

Well, that concludes our show for the evening, folks. Hope you enjoyed yourselves. Please come back again soon.

“God has brought me laughter. All who hear about this will laugh with me." Genesis 21:6

Opposites

2009-06-19T21:07:00.000-07:00

How you know you're in Pennsylvania:

Lush, green rolling hills, trees, and brightly colored flowers in all varieties.

How you know you're back in Texas:

Flat and dead.

Will post more details of our trip soon. Stay tuned...

Boys Will Be Boys...

2009-06-11T15:47:00.000-07:00

Just a short funny on my 2 boys...

E & N were sitting at the dinner table a few minutes ago, and E is talking 90 miles an hour in Pig Latin! He picked it up from J a while back and uses it 99% of the time now! It does drive me crazy, so he's required to speak plain ol' English to his mother! ;) N on the other hand, can pick out certain words here and there when J & E are carrying on a "secret" conversation, but overall doesn't understand it very well.

E repeats the same sentence a couple of times, which upsets N, and he responds with, "I am NOT a dummy!!!"

E then says very nonchalantly, "I SAID you have sauce on your forehead!"

I don't know why it struck me so funny, but I guess that's just every day life between the two of them. :)

Thankful Thursday

2009-06-11T15:25:00.001-07:00

About 1 1/2 weeks ago, I decided to take part in "Thankful Thursday." I haven't been in the habit of blogging as much as I would like to be, so I thought this would give me a chance to regularly make a post, and help me focus more on the positives in my life, instead of the negatives...and then last Thursday came and went...and I forgot all about posting. Ooops. So, without any further ado, here's my list of what I'm thankful for today...

1. I'm thankful that I got to spend some time with my 22 month-old nephew Ty today. He is the smartest (honestly), most talkative, expressive, funny, kid I've ever met! Did I mention cute? His mom (my sister-in-law) is teaching Summer School in Victoria, and my parent's are helping watch him during the day, so we swung by their house while we were in town earlier this morning. He is a riot! I love him and are very thankful that Mark & Renee are bringing him up in a loving, Christian home.

2. I'm thankful for my hardworking, devoted, loyal, dedicated husband who worked his normal 12-hour shift 14 days/nights in a row so we could have a little more play money on our vacation (starting tomorrow)! He takes his role as being our provider very seriously, and I admire him for that.

3. I'm thankful that my house is somewhat quiet at the moment, when it's been filled with lots of noise today...some good, some not so good. Hey, I've got 3 kids that are natural-born sinners, what can I say? Ha! :)

4. I'm thankful that my (going into) 6th grade daughter still wants me to tuck her into bed each night, and then begs me to lie in bed with her and chit-chat for a few minutes before she falls off to sleep...hopefully this tradition will carry on for many more years to come!

5. I'm thankful that God never quits loving me, no matter what I do or how many times I mess up. Thankfully I can't earn his love, and also therefore can't do anything to lose it either! He is the same yesterday, today and forever!

Well, we leave out tomorrow for PA, DC & NY! I'm a little excited, and a little more nervous. :) Please pray for a safe trip. If all goes well, I'll see you again next Thursday, June 18th (hopefully with lots of pictures to share)!

Enjoy your week!! :)

The Itsy Bitsy Spider

2009-06-10T19:24:00.000-07:00

God amazes me. He just does. How he uses simple things in life to open my eyes to something huge.

This morning as I was sitting on the front porch steps having my quiet time, I noticed a spider out of the corner of my eye. I put my Bible down for a moment and looked to see what it was doing. At first glance, I didn't see anything, but when the sun started to come up, it was evident...he/she was busy spinning its web. It was fascinating! I've never watched a spider in action before. It would drop down a few inches, slide over to the right, do whatever it is that spiders do in that one particular spot, come back to the left side, and then continue on. I know, my grasp on how spiders spin a web is mind boggling, isn't it? Ha! ;) Then I started thinking, "So many times when God's at work in our lives, it's like that spider web. Sometimes it may appear as if nothing is happening, but in reality, He's busy at work making something truly miraculous. It may not be visible to the naked eye, but in the end, we'll understand."

"Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."
John 13:7

"For the word of the Lord holds true,and we can trust everything he does."
Psalm 33:4

Really???

2009-06-09T08:31:00.000-07:00

I bought this container of Gatorade just 2 days ago and thanks to my children didn't get to enjoy any of it. Noah was the only child at home yesterday evening, so when he asked if he could have some, I gave in, although I was secretly hoping to save the last bit for myself. I didn't watch him pour his glass, but saw him put it back in the fridge, so I assumed there was plenty left to drink. How disappointed I was when I opened the door and saw this!!!

Really now?? Was it worth the few cents of energy it took to keep the refrigerator running to keep this amount of Gatorade cool?? Honestly?

Welcome to my world. :)

So much to do, and so little time to do it!

2009-05-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling a bit like the rabbit off "Alice in Wonderland" lately...frantically rushing here and there while repeating, "I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date!"

Paul and I finally decided on our vacation destination...Pennsylvania! I've heard from a friend of mine how beautiful the Amish countryside is, and Paul and I are ready to take a step back and relax-so we thought we could do a bit of site seeing, as well as get away from all the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives and enjoy some simplicity (with a trip to Hershey, PA for some chocolate, of course). However, that leaves me with less than 2 weeks to prepare...there's laundry to be washed, clothes and toiletries to be packed, itenteries to be made, etc. For some procrastinators out there, 11 days may seem like more than enough time! However, for this planner/organizer personality, it's not nearly enough..well, with everything else going on in my world at the moment!

I've also decided to resign from my job. I've had the honor of working part-time as our church secretary for the past 4 years, but the time has come for me to step down. Originally, I could come in when I wanted as long as I got the job done. However, now I'm required to be there at the same time each and every day. Normally, that wouldn't be a problem-especially if I was dependent on the money to provide for my family, pay the bills, etc. But that's not the case. I get to use my paycheck for extra spending money...but $10 an hour isn't worth having to miss out on some of my kid's activities at school, etc. While I'm really looking forward to being home each and every day, there are still plenty of loose ends that need to be tied up before Wednesday...and I'm beginning to wonder how I'm going to manage to get it all done.

Our church is also having a garage sale this Saturday, and I was volunteered to help price the items (during my normal working hours). And in preparation of the sale, I decided now would be a great time to clean out my kid's closets...WHAT WAS I THINKING???

I just need to keep my parent's favorite Bible verse in mind..."This too shall pass." ;)

Vacation, anyone?

2009-05-26T08:04:00.000-07:00

Paul and I are trying to decide where to go on vacation. He'll be off from June 12th through the 25th (although we don't plan to stay gone that long). We simply can't make up our minds!?!? Do you have any good ideas? Let me hear 'em!

Paul would prefer to be outdoors, relaxing by a lake, doing some fishing and/or swimming, etc.

The kid's want fun, fun, fun, activities like swimming and more fun!

I on the other hand am not quite sure what I want to do...?

HELP!!!

11 Years Ago...Yesterday

2009-05-18T13:41:00.000-07:00

I became a mom for the first time! Jamie Lynn Baker was born on May 17, 1998 at 8:22 p.m. weighing in at 7 lbs, and was 18 1/2 inches long. However, being born at only 34 weeks, she was a huge preemie! ;) She only had to stay in the NICU for 9 days, and has been great ever since! I would love to post more information, but that will have to wait until another time...so, I'll leave you with one of her first pictures. Enjoy!

Simple, Yet Profound

2009-05-04T19:01:00.000-07:00

Last week, I suddenly found myself hurled into the midst of a spiritual battle-one that has left me holding up not only my shield of faith, but fighting on behalf of my husband as well, when he doesn't have the strength to defend himself. I didn't see this coming, and have been struggling occasionally with thoughts such as, "This is not fair, God! I didn't do anything to bring this upon myself. Yet, here I am having to fight for the both of us! I didn't get myself into this mess! I shouldn't be left trying to piece this back together! This isn't my responsibility." Yet, this really shouldn't catch me off guard. In the back of my mind, I knew that an attack was pending, and God in His faithfulness has been preparing me for a while now...everywhere I turned, the subject of the Armor of God was being thrust in my lap. I find it no coincedence either that we just finished "Believing God" by Beth Moore last week too! God's timing is nothing short of miraculous.

Then yesterday morning, while I was running around like a mad woman, trying to rush out the door for church on time, my nearly 11 year old daughter was taking her sweet time, getting dressed and ready for the day. She was pondering which piece of jewelry would best suit her outfit, and I suggested this necklace that my mom and dad gave her a few year's ago in honor of her baptism. So while she non chalantly walks off to brush her hair, I dashed back to my room for the necklace. All my necklaces are currently hanging on a clothes hanger since I don't own a nice jewelry box-and for now it does the job (However, if any of you reading this feel the need to mention to Paul the idea of buying me a jewelry box for Mother's Day, I'm sure it's really the voice of the Holy Spirit). ;) I attempted to slide the necklace around and off the others, but instead of coming off easily as they normally do, it got all tangled up. As I'm standing there fighting this physical battle with the necklace, some thoughts of my spiritual battle came to mind, and I began to wrestle them both at the same time. The necklace was just about to let loose, when the cord got caught on another chain, which snagged it pretty badly. Eventually, I got it off and inspected the damage. There wasn't anything I could do to hide the damage or to make it go away. I didn't have the time to attempt to make it better, and honestly, I felt it might just make the problem worse. I simply slid the cross pendant to the front so she could put it on, and the cross was hanging right over the mess! Right then, I heard these words, "The cross covers it all!"

I thought, "You're right Lord, the cross does cover it all!"

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T19:12:00.000-07:00

My dad's oldest brother, Lawrence, was (and still is) my favorite uncle! And while growing up, I was never ashamed to admit that I was his favorite niece! :) Uncle Lawrence's job frequently took him out of the country to live in other parts of the world for months at a time. Even though he was gone quite a bit, there are still several fond memories I have of Uncle Lawrence and our time spent together...there were gifts from far off places, such as a silver coin never touched by human hands, bags of foreign money, opal necklaces, perfume from London, etc.

There are many other special memories I have, aside from the gifts he gave...I remember the first time I saw him cry on our way to my Uncle Arlie's funeral back in 1994 as he and I rode alone together in his car. There were George Strait concerts when my cousin worked for MCA records, dinners at Chili's, shopping trips to the Galleria...and there are many more that I don't have room for here.

His sense of humor is unlike any other I've ever known...once while our family was staying in a hotel when we were visiting my aunt and uncle out of town, he called my sister and me from the next room, while we were next door alone. He kept speaking to us in foreign languages, scaring us to death!! Once while eating out at a Mexican food restaurant, he and my dad got up and danced along with the waiters who were singing Happy Birthday to another customer...you just never knew quite what to expect! :)

But the memories that have burned themselves into my mind the most are simply of his presence in my life-especially at Easter! In our home, Easter wasn't Easter without Uncle Lawrence! It didn't matter if he was living in Saudi Arabia, Venezuela, Liberia or New Orleans-year after year, he went out of his way (literally) to ensure that he was at home with us on that day.

On Easter morning, we would have to sit in my brother's room to keep us from peeking out the back door while Uncle Lawrence helped my parents hide the eggs. Then the hunt began...the most exciting part of it was trying to find the one "Prize egg" that Uncle Lawrence had stuffed money into, and we all wanted to be the first to find it! I would always wind up being disappointed and frustrated that I never once found the special "Prize egg" (somehow, my oldest brother, Clay, seemed to find it every year)! Like all kids do, there were times when one of us would continually pass up the obviously "hidden" egg lying in the grass. Uncle Lawrence would have to point us in the right direction in search of it. And if that didn't work, he would then take us by the hand and lead us to the right place (One of my favorite pictures is of Ericson holding his Easter basket when he was about 2 1/2 and Uncle Lawrence is there right beside him, bending over and pointing to an egg in my parent's front yard). Then when the hunt was over, my brothers, sister and I would sit on the back porch peeling and eating the boiled eggs, while opening the plastic ones and devouring the candy inside.

As much as I truly love my Uncle Lawrence, and as much as I know he loves me, my heart is troubled because he doesn't know the true meaning of Easter. He's never personally met the Jesus who went out of His way to point us and lead us to Heaven. Easter has always been my favorite holiday-mainly because of the special memories associated with it because of the close relationship I share with my uncle. But more importantly, it's about another close relationship I share...the relationship with my Lord Jesus Christ who willingly laid down his life for you and for me. Then three days later, rising again so that we might live forever with him. Unlike the "Prize egg" that my uncle would hide in the back yard, Jesus is not available only for the first lucky few who find Him. In John 3:16 it says, "...that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life."

Please don't let the real meaning of Easter pass you by this year! Ask God to soften your heart and open your eyes...to show you the miracle of Easter in fresh, new ways; ways you might never have seen before.

You might just be surprised at what you find!

"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13

I would also covet your prayers tomorrow...due to my Aunt Maria's cancer, this is the first year that my Uncle Lawrence won't be here to celebrate with me and my family!

I'm Believing God!

2009-04-03T08:04:00.000-07:00

I sat down to read my Beth Moore Bible Study, "Believing God" earlier this morning after dropping the kid's off at school. As much as I want my children to see me reading God's word and studying the Scriptures, sometimes you just can't absorb it very well while you have paper airplanes zooming across the room from every direction, a recorder playing "Hot Cross Buns" in your right ear, a child's planner being thrust in your face for you to sign, etc. :)

There were a couple of things she says in Week 8, Day 2 that I wanted to share with you (Today is really Day 3, but see above as to why I'm playing catch-up today).

"When we find our callings, let's persist in them, not attempting to do a thousand things well but fanning our gifts to a flame and pursuing excellence in the few. If we do, Beloved, we will reap! The harvest may not become obvious in our lifetime, but it will surely come. Never, never forget this biblical promise: "if we sow the things of the Spirit, we will reap the things of the Spirit (see Gal. 6:8-9). Every time. God is faithful. Thank Him in advance for the harvest each time you sow. The flood may not fall on those seeds until after you see Jesus, but the rain will surely come. Believe God! Tirelessly plant the things of the Spirit in the soil of earth. Let nothing make you quit. Though the harvest tarry, it shall come!"

There are 2 specific prayer requests that I've been praying for for many years now (although I don't want to disclose the details here in Cyber-space for all the world to see...maybe one day when they've been answered). Although I haven't seen the harvest yet, God has given me an assurance in my spirit, and has confirmed it in several different ways that I will receive what I have asked for! It's encouraging me to keep on seeking Him in prayer until the flood has come and watered the seeds.

The verses below caught my eye while I was cleaning out my Bible a moment ago, and I felt God telling me to pray them over my requests...When we pray God's word, we know we're praying in accordance with God's will (we don't always know the outcome because God will answer in His way at just the right time). But I know He's still at work and is going to come through. I can hardly wait to see how He moves!!

"Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will." 2 Timothy 2:5-6

Is there something you're believing God for in prayer but haven't seen the fruits of your labor yet? Don't quit! Be encouraged with this verse:

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

When you know God has laid something on your heart, then believe He will answer. Don't be persuaded by others who try to question or doubt your faith. Keep believing God!!

Be Bold!

2009-03-25T12:05:00.000-07:00

One day over Spring Break, I saw a side of my daughter that not too many people ever get to see...including me. Jamie is normally on the quiet side, tends to lay low, keeps to herself, normally found with her nose in a book.

We had gone to the State Park to visit friend's who were camping there for the week, when Jamie comes storming across the street, waving her hands around in the air, and this is what I heard her saying...

"This boy, he called me fat!! So I flicked him upside his head and he took off crying and said he was gonna tell his mom, but I don't care! I'm not scared!!"

It caught me totally off guard! I honestly had to stifle my giggles because part of me found it funny. But I calmed her down, and told her she needed to go apologize to that kid for "flicking him upside his head." Regardless of what he did, she was only responsible for her actions. Even though the fleshly side of me wanted to go pin him down so she could do it again (Don't ever call my baby fat!), I knew she needed to swallow her pride and do the right thing.

Then last night in our "Believing God" Bible Study, we were talking about our witness as Christians and how God has called us to be bold. I thought about Jamie's incident at the park and wondered how much of an impact we would truly have on this world if all Christians were bold for Christ...not being worried about what others may think of us, or scared we're going to step on someone's toes, but to run this race with perseverance, knowing the prize that awaits us at the end.

"The wicked run away when no one is chasing them,but the godly are as bold as lions." Proverbs 28:1

"This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

And incidentally, no, the little boy did not come back to the playground.

Muddled

2009-03-12T10:53:00.000-07:00

That's the only word that comes to mind regarding my thoughts lately. Several ideas have come to me that I would like to put on the blog, but obviously none of them have come to fruition.

This may be too graphic of a word picture to use here, but it just fits so well! Forgive me if it offends...I simply don't know of a better way to describe how I write.

You know how your stomach starts churning, gurgling and rumbling before you get sick to your stomach? You can't pinpoint the exact time you're going to have to make a mad dash for the bathroom, but you know it's imminent. You're not given the option of penciling it in on your calendar to make sure it fits in your schedule. Neither can you force yourself to just sit down and let it all out! But when it's time, it's time!

That's how I write. My mind starts churning, gurgling and rumbling. I don't know what I'm supposed to write about, nor do I know when it's coming. I can't force myself to sit down and "let it all out." But when it's time, it's time! It just flows forth and that's that!

Like I said, not a very pretty word picture, but a picture nonetheless. :)

I guess lately I'm just having a severe case of verbal constipation. HA!

Wipe Your Feet!

2009-02-25T12:26:00.000-08:00

At a bridal shower recently, we asked all the guests to bring a gift that has helped them grow in their journey of becoming a godly wife and/or mom.

I spent countless hours thinking, pondering, praying and agonizing over what I might present to my friend to symbolize what God had been using in my own life to make me more like Him. Finally, it hit me! I knew the perfect gift! But then reality hit, and I knew that I couldn't possibly give away N! ;)

In all seriousness, I truly believe that God has placed N in my life to stretch me, grow me, and make me more dependant upon Him. If we never encounter some rough patches, or walk through valleys-those hard and sometimes frightening places-we will never truly appreciate the mountain top experiences in life. We can grow so accustomed to life being easy, we lose our appreciation of it and take it for granted.

God says in Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

It makes me think of a welcome mat lying outside your front door. Every time you step in or out of your house, you walk across the mat, yet never really stop to notice it, or make much use of it. You simply "take it for granted" and probably even forget it's presence. But that's on a sunny day!

All of a sudden, when a thunderstorm comes and your shoes get muddy, you now actually stop on the mat, carefully wiping and scraping all of the dirt and mud off-taking full advantage of the mat and what it has to offer.

Isn't that kind of the way we tend to treat our relationship with God? We run over Him every day with short, quick prayers here and there..."Thanks for this" or "Help me with that." But only when we run into the rough, nasty circumstances of life and have mud up to our ankles, where God forces us to our knees in humble dependence upon Him, do we truly stop, take notice of Him, and interact with Him the way we were created to.

We may not always understand what He's doing in our lives, or why He chooses the paths that He places us on...but He doesn't ask us for our opinion! We're simply called to trust Him.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. Isaiah 55:8

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

"The word of our Lord holds true, and everything He does is worthy of our trust." Psalm 33:4

You're sure to experience many good, fun, happy times in life, but like it or not, you'll also experience your share of hard, uneasy times as well. This is where I want to encourage you to "wipe your feet" on God if you will.

"Cast all your cares on him because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

Regardless of what ups and downs you face, I pray that God will bless you on your journey. May your door mat continually serve as a reminder of God's constant, active presence in your life. Don't wait for the hard times to seek His face, but daily go to the Lord in prayer...that's the only way you'll ever thrive and grow.

"Remain in me and I in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:4-5

May you never take His presence for granted!

It's a Small World After All...

2009-02-19T12:04:00.000-08:00

Small world stories have always fascinated me, and since I have a couple of my own, I thought I would share...

1. A couple of years ago, I was at the church working (not during my regular hours), and the phone rang (which it had been doing a lot that day, so I didn't think anything of it). The voice on the other end of the line said, "Hello. May I speak with Bethany?" I identified myself as such, and then she told me that our husband's worked together, and that's how she got my number. My first reaction was, "Uh-oh!" Because just one month before I had received a call from one of Paul's co-worker's spouses crying and all upset, wanting some help and advice on their crumbling marriage. I thought, "Surely this isn't another one of those situations!?"

Thankfully, that wasn't the case at all! The lady on the phone (Meghan)and another lady (I forget her name) were planning on going to the park and wanted to invite me & the kid's along. I had other plans that afternoon, but was trying to think of how I could work around them so I could join in on the fun...you know me-ready and willing to meet new people at any given point in time! Anyhow...I said, "Sure. Which park are you going to?" When she told me the name of it, it didn't sound familiar. So I asked her where it was located and then she told me another name that didn't sound familiar. I then concluded that she lived near the plant and didn't realize I was an hour away. She then asked me where I was. But when I told her, she responded with, "Where?" I told her again, and she then asked in a reserved tone of voice, "Where does your husband work?" I said, "In Old Ocean." She said, "In the ocean???" By now I was beginning to figure out that I wasn't who she thought I was! I explained that he worked in a gasoline refinery in the town of Old Ocean, and she asked very hesitantly, "You mean...your husband isn't in the Coast Guard??" I said, "No.?" We start laughing, and she says, "Let me read the phone number to you...so she reads, "___-___-0598" and I said, "That's the number, and my name is Bethany, but I'm not the person you're looking for." I asked her where she was and she said, "Oregon!" She asked me where Edna was and of course you all reading this know the answer to that question! So anyhow...she starts talking and visiting...I told her it wasn't my home number, that it's the church where I worked. She asked what type of church it was and I told her Baptist. She said, "Everyone in Texas is Baptist, aren't they? Just kidding!" She was a Christian though...we established that much. We went on to discuss several things & found out we had lots in common...just a few examples: She had three kids, I had three kids. Her oldest was nine, my oldest was nine. Her middle son was going to be 7 in August, my youngest son was going to be 7 in August...It was crazy! Needless to say, we had a really good, encouraging conversation! She ended with, "Is this a divine appointment or what? Well, ________(insert the lady with the forgotten name here) is here waiting to go to the park, so I better let you go." I told her I hoped she and the other lady had a GREAT time at the park, and was sorry I couldn't go with them that day, but there was always next time, right? We still keep up with one another through e-mail and Myspace, too.

How weird was that??

2. I moved to West Virginia for the summer (3 months & 8 days to be exact) when I was 19 and worked at Rock Lake Putt-Putt in South Charleston. To this very day, it is still the absolute most favorite job I've ever had...well, besides being a wife & mom! ;) It really helps the environment when your boss is a Christian (& runs his business like it) too! The day before I was flying back home, I was standing at the ice cream counter and was tracing my name in the ice. Someone standing nearby asked what I was doing that for, and I said, "I'm leaving to go home tomorrow, and I'm leaving them something to remember me by." :) She said, "Where are you from?" I told her, and then she said, "My best friend lives in Victoria!" I asked for her name, and when she said, "Christy Spradlin" it shocked me! She and her entire family were members at our church, and I had known them practically all my life!!

Wild!

3. This is my most recent encounter...if you keep up with my blog, then you're aware that Paul and I just got back from a "Weekend to Remember" marriage conference (that had 4,200 people there, remember?). A couple of days ago, I get an e-mail from a lady (Hi Lezlee!!) saying that she has also been reading my blog, and she and her husband were also at the same conference!!! Although we didn't meet while there, I thought that was pretty neat. And I was equally excited to see that I actually had a "real" blog reader...not that you don't count Mom, but... :) Just kidding!!!

From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth- he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do. Psalm 33:13-15

We're Back!

2009-02-17T12:30:00.000-08:00

Well, the conference has come and gone, and we're back home in one piece. The conference was really good; I truly enjoyed the speakers! Dennis Rainey was there (which was really cool since this is the only conference he's speaking at ALL year), as well as Dan Jarrell & Kyle & Sharon Dodd. I had never heard of these speakers before, but they did a great job! We didn't learn anything new, but I suppose it helped reiterate some things we need to keep in mind over the course of our married life together.

The resort was fabulous, but oh my!! It is the largest thing I've ever seen!!! We weren't the only conference there mind you, and our conference alone had over 4,200 people in attendance!! The day's were filled with sessions, with 15 minute breaks spread throughout the day (as well as one for lunch)...try getting 4,200 people fed (in the snack line) or to the bathroom, or through the book store in that amount of time! Impossible. Saturday morning, Paul and I decided to run to Cracker Barrel and get breakfast (thinking we were being smart) instead of going to one of the way over-priced (story on that shortly), too crowded restaurants (that you had to make reservations for if you wanted a seat, but didn't accept same-day reservations) in the resort. Well, we did make it back (right on time), but by the time we parked in the parking garage and high tailed it over to the convention center (down stairs, across parking lots, through the resort, down the hall, up the escalators, etc.) you've put in a good 20-30 minute semi-jog!! So, at least we got our exercise! :) It wasn't nearly as relaxing as I had hoped, but it was still good!

Okay, here's our over-priced story...after breakfast at Cracker Barrel, we really weren't very hungry for lunch. So, Paul had the bright idea of just picking up some snacks, taking them back to our room, and hanging out for an hour until the next session. I got a Coca-Cola Zero, and he a Vitamin Water. We grabbed a small package of Peanut M&M's (in case my bloodsugar went low during the conference), an individual sized bag of Dorito's, a box of Ritz crackers with a small block of Smoked Swiss cheese. $35!!!!! Isn't that insane??? Brunch on Sunday after the conference was over? $32 dollars a plate!!! Although I must admit, that was some GOOD food!!! And the atmosphere was really neat too. And needless to say, that by the time we even made it back to our room, we literally had like 15 minutes to eat before heading back out the door! HA!

I'm truly not complaining! I would do it all over again...just to spend time alone with Paul and get away from our day-in, day-out routine. It really was well worth it. But next time, I think we'll go to a smaller resort...a girl needs to relax! :)

I'm OUTTA here!!!

2009-02-12T15:31:00.000-08:00

No, no! Not gone from the blogging world...sorry for the little scare! :)

Paul and I are leaving first thing in the morning for time away!!! I am so excited! I honestly don't remember the last time just the two of us got away for a couple of days without children in tow?

We're going to Grapevine to attend Family Life's "Weekend to Remember" marriage conference! I've never personally been to one, but heard they're awesome!

We'll be gone through Sunday, so expect no updates until Monday...or later. :)

Have a very Happy Valentine's Day and a GREAT weekend!

Honor Him.

2009-02-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a pretty stressful day for me...outwardly, full of struggles with my youngest son. Internally, full of struggles with my weight issues.

A really good friend of ours decided a little over a week ago that we should text one another every time we ate something, since he's attempting to lose weight as well. I thought it sounded good for accountability's sake, and thought it would be worth a try. So I sent out my first text on Sunday, February 1st as I sat down for breakfast. To my surprise, we've followed through remarkably well! Being a Type-1 Diabetic, I should keep track of what I eat anyway, and you would think with me being a list maker (aka list LOVER!) I would follow through with that on my own...however, every time I try, I fail. Those little books the doctor's give you to keep track of your bloodsugar reading's are WAY too small to be of any use! And carrying a binder around with me every where I go, isn't very do-able either.? This texting thing though, I'm loving it! I sat down yesterday, reading back over the texts I sent this past week, and wrote down my food diary all at once. Love! Love, love!

On the other side of the same coin, however, it just kind of discouraged me because I've been working out faithfully, walking, drinking lots of water, not eating sugar (all of this for over 6 weeks now), and I haven't seen ANY results in regards to my weight! None. Zero. Zilch. Nada. Zip. Absolutely NOTHING! Not even 1 pound! While our friend on the other hand has lost 6 (in the past week alone)! Yes, I know, he's a man. He's naturally going to lose it faster...but he also loves to tell me how I'm not getting enough fiber in my diet, & if I would just do what he says, eat what he eats, etc, I would see results. Trust me, I get plenty of fiber, but nothing gives...? UGH!

Then this morning, I sat down with my Bible before my kid's got up, and I was reading through Psalms 41-45 (I have Psalms marked off so I read a certain section each day of the month). I came to chapter 45, verses 10 & 11. And this is what it says,

"Listen, O daughter, consider and give ear: Forget your people and your father's house. The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord."

This is my translation..."Forget your friend and his advice. Don't worry about what other people think about you. And probably the hardest thing of all to do, is to stop being so critical of yourself! Even if you don't see yourself as thin & beautiful, I am enthralled by your beauty!!!! I love you just the way you are, and that's all that matters!!! I'm just asking you to honor me. Stop worring about your results. You honor me. You're not responsible for the outcome...that's in my hands. You simply honor me. The scale is not your lord. I am your Lord."

I forget sometimes (okay, a lot of the time) that God isn't as concerned with my physical appearance, but rather my heart. In my mind, if I'm absorbed in it, He must be too! :) I'm not saying we shouldn't strive to care for our bodies, because they are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and we need to be good stewards of everything He's given us! But the words that jumped off the page and stuck with me were the words, "Honor him."

Honor him.

Do we truly honor him? It's a question I need to ponder upon...

What Was She Thinkin'??

2009-02-03T09:30:00.000-08:00

This morning right after J woke up, she grabbed a carton of yogurt out of the fridge, and instead of getting a spoon (like normal people), she chose to pour it in her mouth...I guess she wasn't expecting it to come out quite so fast!? It filled her mouth, one nostril, got all over her face, her hands, and promptly fell to the floor. Thank you Lord, for hardwood floors!!! :) She kept her head tilted back, in a vain attempt to make less of a mess, but she couldn't really ask for help either since her mouth was full of vanilla yogurt! I must admit, I thought it was pretty funny!

Her hair may have darkened up quite a bit from when she were little, but she is still a true blonde!

Poor Mom!

2009-02-02T08:53:00.000-08:00

(Forgive me Mom for posting this, but I thought it was too funny not to share! And being the kind, thoughtful person that you are, I know you would not want to prohibit these faithful blog readers (all 1 or 2) from having a good laugh! It's even Biblical, you know?)

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22

So, with that said, here is my mom's story that she shared with me via e-mail. Enjoy!!!

I like to keep everyone up to date on the family happenings....since most of you live a distance away now. Yesterday morning, I got out of bed and immediately let the dogs out to pee. I decided to put in a load of wash while waiting for them to come in and eat breakfast. Dad stepped to the kitchen/utility room door and said he was going to Clay's to check the mail, get the electric meter reading, and just check things out.
"Okey-dokey....see you later!" And off he went. In about two minutes the dogs are ready to go in the house. I reached for the doorknob of the kitchen/utility room door and IT IS LOCKED! Your dad had LOCKED THE DOOR, then left. That leaves me in the utility room, in a flannel nightgown and TENNIS SHOES (since that was the first pair of shoes I found when I got out of bed). Oh, and let's not forget it is 29 freaking degrees outside! I tried everything I could find to pick the lock, but nothing worked. I wound up sitting in my car, in the garage, for 45 min. until he gets back from Clay's house and lets me in the back door. End of story. And yes, he IS still alive and breathing and doesn't even have knots on his head. So you all may rest easy. Love, Mom

Pray for Connie

2009-01-28T16:24:00.000-08:00

It seems I've had a lot of prayer requests lately, huh? But in a strange way, I find it exciting, because it's an opportunity to watch God work!

I know I've mentioned Connie on here before...I believe when her brother was diagnosed with cancer recently. Due to his diagnosis, she decided to get herself checked out from head to toe (she's also been having some problems with her stomach, etc.). Anyhow! They have found a spot on her pancreas, and will be sending her to MD Anderson to have further tests done.

So far, she's handling the news okay. The doctor who found the growth can't tell if the spot is filled with fluid, or is a solid mass, etc. so we don't know if it's cancerous or what.?

Would you please be praying for her peace of mind and her healing?

I'll keep you posted.

Thanks!!!

Tyler Has Arrived...But Please Pray!

2009-01-23T21:23:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the late update...it's been a busy day. In fact, my sister and her 3 girl's came out and visited for a while so they could see their "Uncle Pie." Paul was given that name accidentally by Ashton, my oldest neice, but it was too cute, and has since stuck. Anyhow! That's another story for another time. Onto Tyler...

I spoke with Jennifer earlier this afternoon, and she gave me all the stats:

Tyler Jesse Broadstreet was born today, Friday, January 23rd, 2009 at 9:38 a.m. He weighed in at 7 lbs. 1 oz, and was 20 1/2" long.

Tyler apparently swallowed some amniotic fluid that they were not able to suction out of his lung, so they currently are watching him in the nursery, and treating him with antibiotics. They're saying as of now, the worst case scenario is that he'll have to stay up to 7 days in the hospital, but Jennifer could be released as early as Sunday. She understandably doesn't want to leave the hospital without her baby, and she asked me to ask all of you to please be praying for his recovery and that he'll be allowed to go home with her.

Thanks for your prayers!!!

Tyler Is On His Way!!

2009-01-23T06:19:00.001-08:00

My best friend Jennifer in Indiana is having her baby boy, Tyler Jesse Broadstreet, today! She may even be delivering as we speak? I know she's very excited, and I just had to share my excitement with you all as well!

I met Jennifer in Sunday School, during my senior year of high school. She walked in behind this other girl in our Sunday School class who had a habit of bringing some fellow "band nerds" with her, so I just assumed she was "one of those." :) Ha! We quickly found out she wasn't who we thought, and then we discovered our common love of...Jesus and food!!! :) We walked across the street to the little gas station before Sunday School started and bought 2 of our favorites...chocolate milk and Chili Cheese Frito's! :) Yes, sad to say, that was our breakfast on many, many Sunday mornings at Victoria Bible Church! We went to a mini-carnival in the K-Mart parking lot that afternoon, we made bets on who had the messiest bedroom, and then went to each other's house to see who was right (I WON!), we spent the night at her house that evening, and that was that!

She was a night-owl, and I an early bird...which made for some interesting sleepovers to say the least! :) One time, a bunch of us (meaning her sisters, my sister, and our common friend Sarah) were staying over and doing facials, etc. in her upstairs bedroom, when I fell asleep and they decided they were going to go downstairs and make Kool-Aid.?? She forced me up and told me I could go lay on their bar. :) Well, she indeed woke me up...instead of sugar in the Kool-Aid, she accidentally put 1 c.+ of SALT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was the nastiest thing I've ever tasted!!!

I avoided confrontation at all cost, and she taught me how to talk out problems...for which I will be eternally grateful! We've cried together, we've laughed together, we've prayed together...she is a true friend!

Just over 3 years ago, I had the privilege of flying to Florida after she had her first baby, Abbie, and stayed with her a week. Now, in about 6 more weeks, I'll be able to do the same and get to see baby Tyler!!

I promise to post picts. when I get some! In the meantime, please pray for a safe and healthy delivery!

Love you, Jennifer!!!!!

Special Prayer Request

2009-01-20T09:16:00.000-08:00

My friend Phyllis has requested prayer for her new grandbaby, Joshua Tyson, who was born nearly 6 weeks ago, on December 10th.

He is currently in the hospital in New Orleans because he was born with 2 heart conditions.

The first one is that his aorta and pulmonary artery were fused into one-they never separated while in the womb. They had to do surgery on him, and thankfully pulled through that one remarkably well!

The second condition is "truncus arteriosis." I personally have not read up on this, so I can't explain it to you, but he will have to have surgery to correct that as well at a later date.

Please keep baby Tyson in your prayers! If I can, I'll try to post pictures as soon as I get some. ;)

Random Trivia for the Day

2009-01-15T07:47:00.000-08:00

I heard this yesterday on the radio, and I thought, "Isn't God neat?" I'm a firm believer that NOTHING in this life happens by coincedence! He is involved in each & every intricate detail of our lives! Anyhow...here's your trivia for the day:

The words, "Fear Not" appear in the Bible 365 times! One for each day of the year.

Cool, huh? Apparently God's trying to tell us something. I pray that we will have the ears to hear Him when He speaks, the heart to accept it, and the courage to obey.

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T22:19:00.000-08:00

No big party. No noise makers. No loud firecrackers. We spent a nice, quiet evening here at home with Paul's sister and family. They drove in from Brenham for a few hours and as always, had a very good time visiting! When I think of Christ on Earth, I think of this dear, precious family. One time my kids and I were talking about the rapture, and what Heaven will be like. We were talking about how there would be no more sin, and how nice it will be when there's no more selfishness, arguing, anger, etc. and Jamie looks up at me and says, "You know Mom, I don't think Aunt GiGi's going to change very much!" I know she's human, as are Greg and the kids, but I couldn't help but agree with her. Christ is very evident in their lives, and I am thankful for the example they set before us. Greg and Angie, we love you guys!!!!

After they left, I began to fill out my calendar for the upcoming year. I couldn't help but think about the future, and what it will hold. As I would write in a square, I would try to picture that day in my mind, wondering about what would be happening on that particular day.

I like to keep my old calendars from years past, because that's where I keep track of birthday's, anniversaries, special events, etc. and I can go back through them and reminisce. Sometimes it's fun to relive the memories, but sometimes it can be equally as painful.

No matter what lies ahead, these are a few of my goals for 2009:

*That we as a family, and I personally, will grow in grace.

*I pray that we will throw off everything that hinders, not getting distracted by busyness or grow complacent, but will run the race with perseverance.

*I want to learn to hear Jesus' voice more clearly.

*To learn how to slow down and thoroughly enjoy each and every moment with my children, friends and family. Not just make it through another day, but to really live.

*Grow in self-discipline...whether in my eating and exercise habits, or in my Bible reading, and prayer time. I think every area of my life could use an extra dose of this medicine.

*I want to understand more of God's unconditional love for me, and allow it to change me. To love Him in return with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. And for my children to see Him making a difference in my life.

*To read through the Bible (in its entirety) as a family.

I know this isn't a complete list, but those were the main issues on my heart. I can always go back and add more.

"Lord Jesus, Thank You that You desire to have a relationship with us. Thank You that we can come to You anytime-but help us not only to make our requests known to You, but to also listen to Yours as well. I ask that this year, You would remove any and all distractions and obstacles that may be keeping us from hearing Your voice. Please quiet and still our hearts and minds. Lord, I ask that You would do whatever it takes to continually turn our hearts toward You, giving us an ever-growing, never-ending hunger for You and Your Word. Give us the ears to hear You, the wisdom to listen and the courage to obey. Please bind our minds to Your mind, our thoughts to Your thoughts, our will to Your will, our hearts to Your heart, and our lives to Your purposes. Thank You for being a God of compassion and mercy, and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. There is no one else like You!"

My God is so BIG, so STRONG and so MIGHTY, there's nothing that He cannot do...for YOU!

2008-12-30T12:01:00.000-08:00

That's part of song we used to sing at church camp, and it came to mind when I sat down to write this.

Jamie may not look like me, but there are some things we have in common-one of them being her love of her birthday, Christmas, or any occasion where gift giving is involved, really.

In fact, she starts planning months in advance for her birthday party (she's been at it a good month or more, while her birthday isn't until May), and is already talking and dreaming of the gifts she'd like to receive. This of course has spurred some heart-to-heart talks on being content with what God has blessed us with, being grateful for what we already have, etc. because she can get carried away, and puts the focus solely on herself. Not good!

Her wish-list has items that range from a few cents (candy), to $1,000+ dollars (laptop computer), with most things somewhere in the middle of the two extremes (clothes, CD's, cell phone, books, etc.).

After learning that her cousin was given a Nintendo DS for Christmas (a MAJOR item on her wish-list, but mean Mom & Dad won't buy her one), she quickly decided that she was through asking for the smaller (and cheaper) items, and instead would be exchanging it for her bigger (and more expensive) ones. She devised a plan where she wants to give short lists (1-3 items each) to the ones who typically buy for her, but she's only going to ask for the things she REALLY wants, but never really put on her list before because she figured she wouldn't get them.

Trust me when I say she is not always quite so self-centered, but even in the midst of her "Gimme Rampage" a couple of days ago, God showed me something...

How many times do we only put "nickel & dime" prayer requests on our wish-list, and then hand them over to God? Always trying to play it safe, assuming He won't grant us our bigger requests?

I believe I've mentioned this in a previous post, that I'm currently reading a book by Beth Moore called, "Believing God." This book is really good!! One thing she says in there is that we normally believe little because we see little, so in turn we see little, thus continuing to believe little. My favorite quote so far says, "We must cease to accept the visible as the possible, and start believing what God says over what man sees."

Isn't that GOOD?? I love it!!

Our God is the creator of the universe, the Lord of Lords, the King of Kings, the owner of the cattle on a thousand hills, the giver of all good gifts...and yet all we do is believe Him for...candy??

What sense does that make?

Take God out of your pocket.

"My God is so BIG, so STRONG, and so MIGHTY, there's nothing that He cannot do! My God is so BIG, so STRONG, and so MIGHTY, there's nothing that He cannot do! The mountains are His, the rivers are His, the stars are His handy work too! My God is so BIG, so STRONG, and so MIGHTY, there's nothing that He cannot do...for YOU!"

Christmas Then, Christmas Now

2008-12-24T19:45:00.000-08:00

The picture above is the scene we woke up to on Christmas morning 2004. It truly was a miracle!! We received well over a foot of snow! What made it even more miraculous is that we (meaning South Texas)were the ONLY place in the ENTIRE United States that got snow!! We live out in the country with only one neighbor, and a pasture on our left, and 29 acres behind us, a state park across the street, and another campground on the other side of our neighbor's house...so it was like one huge snow blanket all around us!!!! I still have a hard time believing it, even when I look at the pictures now.

This however, is the scene we woke up to this morning, Christmas Day 2008. Not quite the same. :) We're expecting a high of around 75 degrees, last I heard. Only in South Texas can you go from a high of 46 degrees one day, and a high of 79 the next. It's crazy I tell you! Just crazy.

Merry CHRISTmas!!!

2008-12-24T18:35:00.001-08:00

With Paul at our church's Christmas Eve service, Jamie in the shower, and my 2 sick boys sleeping, it's pretty quiet around the house.

I've been thinking about my favorite Christmas back in 2005. We invited a very dear friend over to spend Christmas morning with us, and it's one I will never forget!! She came dressed in her pajamas, and of course we were all in ours as well. We were all so excited to give her her gifts, knowing she had no idea what she was in for! She didn't know she was getting anything, but thought she was just coming to eat breakfast with us. We all drew numbers after we ate to see who would go first opening their gifts, so the fun wouldn't be over in less than 5 seconds with all the kid's ripping and tearing into the packages. ;)

I don't remember what number Jacque had, but I remember the look on her face as she began opening her gifts. She was truly overwhelmed, and didn't know what to say. It wasn't because we bought her some extravagant, expensive gifts, but it was because we loved Jacque, so we knew what she needed and what she liked...we hand picked the specific gifts she had mentioned wanting but could never afford herself and didn't have any family to buy for her either. She has the most horrendous, painful past I've ever personally heard! Paul, the kids' and I loved her, and she was really part of our family!

I love, love, love buying for someone who cannot repay me! I honestly get no greater joy than giving when I know I cannot "get" in return.

And it just made me wonder...when God sent His one and only Son Jesus to this earth as a gift to us, did He receive that same joy knowing we could never repay Him?? Surely He didn't just say, "Look. We don't have any other choice. If you want 'em, then you're gonna have to go down there and get 'em yourself." I think He was ecstatic and thrilled that He got to give us that special, hand-picked gift that we would treasure forever. I'm sure Jacque doesn't have many, if any, of her gifts left, but unlike her coffee pot or whatever else we may have given her that may be broken or forgotten, Jesus will be around for eternity.

Enjoy your Christmas present found in Jesus! I pray you too will be overwhelmed by His love and grace in the coming year.

Yet Another Prayer Request

2008-12-24T08:21:00.001-08:00

It appears my children (or 2 out of 3) are getting sick! Ericson complained of being nauseated and dizzy yesterday, but nothing ever came of it. This morning, Noah woke up with at least 103...we didn't get to finish taking his temp. because he felt he needed to throw up, and on the way to the bathroom, fell headfirst into the wall and now has a nice bruise on his forehead (but no vomiting so far-thankfully)! He's now wrapped in a blanket lying in the living room floor, and Ericson is stretched out on the couch...still feeling dizzy. So far, Jamie seems to be okay.

Please pray they'll get to feeling better...we certainly don't want to miss out on our Christmas plans tomorrow!!!! :(

Prayer Request

2008-12-23T11:44:00.000-08:00

I received a phone call earlier this morning from a good friend of ours named Rose Bednarczyk. They just found out her husband Larry has cancer. She is understandably quite upset...she just cried...couldn't do much talking. My heart breaks for them, but not just because of Larry. This is their second blow in just over a month. You see, on November 16th, just 5 short weeks ago, Larry & Rose lost their oldest son, Jim to cancer.

Paul and I met Rose exactly 10 years ago when we moved back to the area, and Parkway Church was within driving distance again. She worked in the baby nursery and took care of Jamie from the time she was 7 months old. I had just found out I was pregnant with Ericson, and so when he was born, he also was under Rose's care. She then quit Parkway to focus on running her own in-home day care. My children spent 2 mornings a week over there when my sister Sara, brother Mark, and I decided to take an Aerobics class together at Victoria College...my niece Ashton and Ericson were 5 months old and we were trying to lose our baby weight. :) We just thought it would be fun to have Mark in there with us...and we did indeed have a great time! They also spent a weekend or two with Rose & Larry when Paul and I needed some time away and went out of town. We attended Rose's surprise 60th birthday party, etc. They truly treated us like family, and we loved them dearly!!

A couple of years ago, they moved to Temple so they would be closer to all three of their kids and grandkids. We would stay in touch through an occasional phone call & yearly Christmas cards. About 1 1/2 years ago, she called and asked me to pray for Jim because he had just been diagnosed with cancer. I tried calling to check on him a few times, but their phone had been disconnected. Then back in July, Paul and I took the kid's camping at Bastrop State Park. We had gone on a short hike and stopped to let the kid's play at the playground when we noticed a teenager sitting on the swings with a Howell T-shirt on. I didn't recognize him, so I didn't give it a second thought. A few minutes later, I noticed the little boy sitting next to him, and he was wearing a Victoria YMCA shirt. I looked at him a little closer, and it hit me! It was one of Rose's grandson's! I was so excited, because if his parent's were near by, I could get Rose's new phone number! I sent Noah over to see if his name was Caleb, and sure enough, it was! He even pointed to a picnic table a little ways behind where we were sitting, and there sat Rose!!!! I high-tailed it over there and she was equally excited to see us again! It was so neat to find them there!

Needless to say, they are very near and dear to our hearts, and we would appreciate your prayers on their behalf.

If you would like to see some pictures of this beautiful family, you can go to: www.youtube.com and type in "Jim Bednarczyk" in the search box. There is a 3 part video on there that they played at Jim's service. There's also pictures of Rose & Larry, and the rest of the clan.

Thanks for your prayers!!!!

Connect the Dots...

2008-12-19T21:15:00.000-08:00

I'm going to ask your forgiveness in advance, because this blog is quite long and skips around quite a bit...hence the title of "Connect the Dots." Do try to follow along to the best of your ability and I'll do my best to bring it full circle and tie up any loose ends when I'm done. :)

Yesterday when Jamie got home from school, I was in the kitchen cooking. I asked her how her day was, and she just kind of fell into my arms with a sad look on her face. I asked her what happened, and apparently, a teacher had gotten upset with her for not getting far enough along in her school work to suit her during Science class. We talked a few minutes and then she walked away. I honestly don't remember how much time had passed, but a little while later I went looking for Jamie, and couldn't find her. I looked everywhere in the house, glanced outside, etc. No Jamie. I began to get worried, and I called her name once more as I stepped out into the garage. She responded, but I couldn't tell where her voice was coming from. I went outside and found her sitting on this bench, facing the back of our property. You can't see it from the house, due to the pump house, and kid's swing set. I walked out to her and sat down to visit. Unfortunately, she has my tendency to clam up when something's bothering her. Well, that used to be my tendency when I was younger...no longer. :) I asked her a few questions, but most of the feedback I received was in the form of shrugged shoulders, and then falling into my arms again. She claimed she wasn't upset specifically about the teacher situation, but was just overall sad in general (I'm beginning to blame most of these mood swings on pre-adolesent hormones to tell you the truth).

A while back, I was kind of musing to myself and questioned if God really wanted us to talk to Him, or if he just expected us to because that's what Christians are "supposed" to do, but He didn't really care one way or another. Don't ask me why my mind went there, but it did. I got my answer loud and clear yesterday on that bench! I was wanting so desperately to help Jamie with her problem, and longed for her to open up to me, but she refused. She just sat there shrugging her shoulders, keeping her lips sealed. I cannot explain to you what I was feeling at that moment. It was the most intense, anxious, yearning I have ever felt. I was begging her to talk to me!!!!! And at that moment, God opened my heart and dropped this in...He said, "This is how much I want you to talk to me! Yes, I care! Yes, I listen. I long for you to open up to me and just talk!" (Don't you just love how our relationship with our kids mirrors us and our relationship with our God, our Heavenly Parent?) I was quite frankly shocked at the clarity of His message, excited that He truly does care...and yet felt slightly guilty too for not spending as much time with Him as I would like. After that little exchange, we didn't do much talking, but rather just sat together, watching the birds, feeling the breeze, and enjoying the silence.

You may think this is silly, but one of my favorite things in nature to watch are these flocks of small birds...not sure what they are. But when they're flying, they look to me like pepper being blown in the wind. I think they're neat to watch! I've never mentioned that to anyone...I've just kept this fascination to myself. At one point, a small group of them flew overhead, but Jamie was looking the other direction, so she missed out on it. I wanted her to see them, so I silently asked for God to make them turn back around so she could enjoy them with me. He said no, and they continued to fly until they were out of sight. A few seconds later though, out of nowhere, came MASSES of these small feathered creatures flying overhead...thousands upon thousands-no lie! They went on as far as the eye could see...from behind us, flying over the roof of our house, across our 29 acres, and beyond! It was like the Energizer Bunny in Bird form...they just kept going and going and going...I have never seen so many at once! I was thrilled!!! They were swerving to the right, darting down, soaring back up...they put on quite a show! While we were watching this production, I told Jamie about my love of watching these birds, and it reminded me of this book I'm reading by Beth Moore called, "Believing God." She says that when you're earnestly praying for a miracle, and you don't get it, it's because ultimately God has a bigger YES in mind. Even in the little things (like watching birds fly), He wants to demonstrate His love to us...if only we'll believe and trust Him.

Then today, Paul and I took the kid's to Victoria so Paul could finish up some secret Christmas shopping for the kids (I'm not even allowed to know what he bought them!?). We took both vehicles so after he bought my gifts, I could take the kids and he could go on his secret escapade. While he shopped, the kid's and I decided to drop by a friend of ours house that we haven't seen in quite some time! Her real name is Nicole, but the kid's all refer to her as CoCo. We used to hang out all the time when the kid's were younger, but now she has a full time job, and for me, life with 3 kids just gets busy! It was so good visiting with her, even for just a few minutes. It truly felt as if we just picked back up where we left off! I didn't realize how much I had missed her until after I left. I was thinking, "Why do I wait so long between visits? Whether it's by phone, e-mail or dropping in on her (or anyone for that matter)." It was refreshing just to be in the presence of a true friend.

Is this making any sense to you? Do you see how all these stories tie together? God longs for us to have a relationship with Him! Not one out of obligation or duty, but because He loves us!!! I know we're all busy, especially at this time of year, but whatever you decide to cut out of your schedule, don't let it be your time spent with Him! He is the ONLY thing that will ever truly satisfy the longings in your heart. Let Him. He wants you to believe Him and to trust Him. He will not let you down!

"My heart says of you, "Seek His face!" Your face Lord, I will seek." Psalm 27:8

"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4

"You open Your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing." Psalm 145:16

It Runs In The Family...

2008-12-15T18:56:00.000-08:00

MAL-A-DY [mal-uh-dee] –noun, plural -dies. 1. any disorder or disease of the body, esp. one that is chronic or deepseated.

In case you haven't heard, there is a common disorder that affects the entire human race, but not many people are even aware that it exists. It appears to be handed down from generation to generation...and our family suffers from it pretty severely at times. I'm not quite sure of the proper, scientific term, but it's commonly referred to in our home as, "Hearing Dyslexia."

For some reason, it seems to strike my immediate family more often than not when we're listening to music. Let me give you some of my funnier examples:

Toby Keith's first single was "I Should Have Been a Cowboy." The first verse is referring to my brother Clay's favorite TV show when we were growing up, "Gun Smoke." I personally HATED that show!!! Here's how it goes:

"I bet you've never heard ole Marshall Dillion say
Miss Kitty have you ever thought of running away
Settling down will you marry me
If I asked you twice and begged you pretty please
She'd of said Yes in a New York minute
They never tied the knot
His heart wasn't in it
He stole a kiss as he road away
He never hung his hat up at Kitty's place."

Instead of "Marshall Dillion" I heard..."Barstool Dillion" and heartily sang it that way...probably for months-until Clay corrected me.

Another song was Bryan White's "Rebecca Lynn." The verse I got confused with says,

"High school days,
me and Becky learnin'
What it really means to be in love.
Give and take, holdin' back for heaven's sake
Fightin' for a week, then makin'up."

No lie, "Fightin' for a week, then" sounded to me like..."Fighting for a Wheat Thin, makin' up." It made absoultely NO sense to me, but hey! I didn't write the song...I just sang it...until once again, Clay corrected me. That's what big brothers are for, right?

Go on, you know you want to laugh at that one. My brother Clay did...a lot! My sister just says I'm blonde. :)

Unfortunately, my children have also been afflicted with this malady. Here are a few of their examples:

J (while singing the Christmas Carol, "Ring the Bells" off a very upbeat Kid's Christmas CD), asked me what "Ringle Bells" were. :)

E (while listening to Billy Gillman's "The Snake Song") was singing along with these lyrics...

"He swallered a frog and hollered yum-yum
He slid down the hillside and darted his tongue
He entered the garden on this bright moonlight night
Then he stopped in his tracks, it was love at first sight
(he said) My skin is black, your skin is green
You dwell in a garden, I live by a stream
Although I'm short and stocky and you're long and lean
I've got a crush on you
Then he squeezed her tighter and tighter and tighter"

and asked me what a "todder" was. I told him I had never heard of that word, and asked where he heard it. He then proceeded to sing that part of the song to me (he held her todder), and I lost it! He innocently thought it was part of our anatomy. :)

N, last but certainly not least was singing the song, "I Love Rock & Roll" and instead of, "I love Rock & Roll! Put another dime in the jukebox,Baby!" was singing, "I love Rock & Roll! Put another dime in the shoebox, Baby!"

What can I say? It runs in the family...We're sick.

Well, Lookie Here!

2008-12-10T17:24:00.000-08:00

Look what I found...makes you want one, doesn't it? Admit it. You know you do. Or you should. If you've never had one, you don't know what you're missin'! :)

Click Your Heels Together & Repeat After Me...

2008-12-10T16:38:00.000-08:00

"There is no place like Uncle Mutts! There is no place like Uncle Mutts! There is no place like Uncle Mutts!"

For those of you who don't live in Victoria (or near enough to drive over for a visit), you're missing out on some of the best BBQ! I just happened to be in town today finishing up my Christmas shopping, and I called my sister to ask her opinion on our mom's Christmas present. She informed me that her family was at Uncle Mutt's eating, so she's really the one to blame for my gluttony. :) HA!

The menu of choice today was: BBQ on a bun, fried corn, and a Root Beer! Mmmmmm!!!! I would have taken pictures for you to drool over, but unfortunately, I left my beloved camera here at home.

Well, that's it for today...sorry to disappoint you readers who have come to expect a moral in my stories or who thought there was going to be some depth or point to my blog...sometimes I'm just shallow like that. :)

Sometimes It's Hard to be a Duck!

2008-12-05T07:23:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, the kid's went through this phase where everything they were doing was getting on each other's nerves, which then lead to them feeling the need to tattle. It was driving me crazy!! This word picture came to mind, and this is what I told them...

"What happens when you put a sponge in the water? It soaks it up and holds it inside, doesn't it? Not everything is like that though. Did you know that God made ducks in a way that when they get in the water, the water doesn't soak into their body's, but it rolls right off of them. Pretty neat, huh?"

I then proceeded to tell them they had a choice. If one of their siblings was doing something that was bothering them, but wasn't a sin, they could act like a sponge-soaking it up and holding it in, or start acting like a duck...letting it roll off their backs. Even to this day if they're arguing or tattling, sometimes all I have to ask is, "Are you being a sponge or a duck?" :)

Well, everyone gets a chance to practice what they preach, right? Yesterday was one of my many opportunities!

Paul and I take turns going on dates with each of our kid's to give them some one-on-one attention...and last night was Noah's turn. He wanted to go to Wal-Mart for a couple of reasons. 1. He knew he could get a treat (around $3) and 2. He wanted to buy a small gift for Christmas for his brother and sister. While Noah may struggle with reading, he has math down!!!! He can add, multiply, count change, etc. in a heartbeat...sometimes much faster than Jamie, Ericson, or even Paul and myself! It's kind of funny to watch. Anyhow! He had been busy calculating, adding, exchanging what was in his hand for a better deal on the shelves, etc. and finally had made his decision. As I mentioned in a previous post, he has a sugar craving unlike any other child I've ever known! Let me tell you, that boy chose quite a few junk food items for $3! He had peanut butter bars, strawberry wafers, gum, cookies, etc. While waiting in line to check out, we saw a teacher from the kid's school coming in the door. Noah immediately thrusts his arm-load up in her face and says, "Look what all I got!!! My mom lets me eat this all the time!" I must admit, I felt the need to clarify, but due to all the people coming and going, it made it next to impossible as we parted ways.

Lesson in humility #1.

We then go to HEB so I can pick up some items for a Christmas party tonight. Noah loves pushing the cart, but he took off through the crowded store, whipping the cart in and out while hollering, "This is like a real video game!!!" Keeping the safety of the other shoppers in mind, I then proceeded to push the cart myself.

Lesson in humility #2.

We went down the aisle where the chips are so I could buy the corn chips that go with my shrimp dip...which also happened to be directly across the aisle from the alcohol. As I stopped to decide which chips to purchase, Noah rounded the corner, and exclaimed (quite loudly), "No! We are NOT buying beer!!!!" And then runs down to the end of the aisle...leaving me surrounded by lots of looks on humored strangers faces.

Lesson in humility #3.

Lastly, we were on our way to the check out line, when Noah looks in my cart and asks, "What are you making for the party tomorrow?" Before I get a chance to answer, he said, "Oh, I know!!!! Only what you know how to make! Chips & hot sauce!"

Lesson in humility #4.

For the past 7 years Paul & I have been questioned, judged and criticized a lot in regards to our son, his behavior and the way we parent him. And if you don't know me, you're likely to think along the same lines simply by reading this story...7 years ago, I would have too. But there's more beneath the surface...Noah is handicapped. His handicap may not be visible to the naked eye, but it's there. If you're reading this, you've either seen pictures of him or know him personally and you can attest to the fact that he's a cute, boisterous, inquisitive, stubborn, hyper, funny, bright, "normal" looking 8-year-old kid. But in reality, his brain has been damaged by the alcohol that was in his birth mother's system while she was pregnant. Noah struggles with Fetal Alcohol Effects. These are but a few of the symptoms of FAE and will affect him for the rest of his life:

The most serious characteristics of FASD are the invisible symptoms of neurological damage that results from prenatal exposure to alcohol, These symptoms can occur in FAS and FAE:

· Attention deficits
· Memory deficits
· Hyperactivity
· Difficulty with abstract concepts
· Poor problem solving skills
· Difficulty learning from consequences
· Vulnerable and naive
· Stunted social development
· Immature behavior
· Emotional outbursts
· Poor impulse control
· Poor judgment

You can read more on this website:
http://www.come-over.to/FASCRC/

Before we were blessed with adopting Noah, I used to look at all misbehaved kids and assume it was the result of poor parenting. When we were younger,my parent's always told us to coat our words in chocolate because we never knew when we'd have to eat them! ;) Let's just say I've become a Chocoholic! Ha-ha!! :)

You would think I would have my "Duck performance" down pat and memorized, letting things just roll off my back. But truth be told, sometimes I still act like a sponge...allowing certain behaviors, looks, worries and fears of the future to soak in. I know in my heart that the only opinion that truly matters is that of my Heavenly Father, but occasionally I still feel compelled to give explanations or excuses to the outsiders looking in, in a vain attempt to keep myself from being embarassed. Like tonight, I wanted to tell everyone that we really do NOT allow the kid's to eat junk food every day & he did NOT have the free reign to eat it all in one sitting, that we do NOT in fact keep alcohol in our home, that we do NOT condone or make excuses for his behavior, that I DO know how to cook...NOT just make chips and hot sauce...that we DO discipline him (and our other two kids as well)...and on and on it goes.

God tells us in His word (Psalm 127:3) that children are a gift from the Lord...Period! They don't become a gift once they learn to behave, comply with all the rules, stop arguing with their parent's, make their beds without being told, stop smearing toothpaste all over the bathroom mirror, willingly put on underwear every morning without being forced, stop using inappropriate language, stop lying or exaggerating with nearly every story told, etc. It says, "Children are a gift from the Lord."

Present tense.

No matter your circumstances...whether you're dealing with a difficult child, personal insecurities, financial strains, etc, I just want to encourage you to stop looking around you for approval, and look up!

Last but not least, learn to be a duck...it makes the puddles in life a lot more bearable!

67

2008-12-03T11:53:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken less than 2 weeks ago at Paul's grandparent's 67th wedding anniversary party. Papa Tompkins is seated, with Jamie & Noah at his side. Granny Rose is standing with Ericson, and one of their many cousins, Logan, is in back. There surprisingly wasn't a large turnout this time, and it got my mind to wondering about who all wasn't there. I started writing down names, and it just so happens there are 67 family members as well! I just thought it was kind of interesting...67 years of marriage have produced: 6 children (4 with spouses), 14 grandchildren (11 spouses), and 27 great-grandchildren, for a grand total of 67 people!

Random trivia for the day.

My Tang's all Toungled Up!

2008-12-02T11:57:00.000-08:00

Noah's 2nd grade class is learning about Johnny Appleseed in school this week, and one of their projects is going to be making applesauce. He asked to take 2 apples with him since they were so small, so I agreed. At least he asked!! He normally would just sneak it, so anytime he does the right thing, if at all possible, I allow his request!

We were about to walk out the door, when he said, "Hey Mom, look!" When I turned around, this is the face I saw. He said, "I'm the eye of God's apple!" The real translation being...Psalm 17:8, "Keep me as the apple of your eye..."

Remember who you are and to whom you belong this week! You too are the eye of God's apple...I mean, the apple of God's eye! ;)

Psalm 63:6

2008-11-28T21:26:00.000-08:00

This is the scene I found when I came home Tuesday night. Normally, Jamie waits up if I'm gone so I can tuck her in to bed for the night, but it was later than normal, and she fell asleep before I got home. I had just come in from a Finance Team meeting at church. This just made my heart melt! She had her Girl's Devotional Book laid across her chest, with her Bible opened up beside her. She's quickly approaching her "Tween" years, and sometimes has the attitude to match (mainly in regards to her brothers). But my prayer for her is that she will keep Jesus as her first love, and that her life will bring Him glory. I believe He will honor that prayer!

"On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night."
Psalm 63:6

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."
3 John 1:4

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-27T04:50:00.000-08:00

It's still relatively quiet around the house this morning...Paul's at work, Jamie & Ericson are busy in the kitchen (preparing their mashed potatoes & sweet potato casserole respectively), and Noah's still in bed. So, I thought I would take a minute before the day gets any busier to sit down and make a list of what I'm thankful for. I actually made two lists. One I gave a lot of thought to-things I'm truly thankful for...things that make a difference in my life. The other list was made on a whim...the fun things that make life enjoyable, but are not necessities.

T-Time together.
H-Husband, Health, Home.
A-Atonement through the blood of Jesus Christ.
N-Neighbors that love on my kids & watch over us and our place.
K-Kid's.
S-Smiles.
G-God's grace.
I-Impact that my parent's have made in our lives.
V-"V is for Victory! Shout it out what a glorious word!"
I-Incredible love of our Heavenly Father.
N-New Testament-being under grace, not law.
G-Gatherings with family & friends.

T-Thesaurus-it really helps out when writing!
H-Hats-or to be more specific, ball caps for those bad hair days, or just lazy days in general!
A-Autobiographies that I love to read. Anything real life...no fiction please!
N-Nail polish...and for my good friend Connie that does nails for a living. :) Those two go hand-in-hand!
K-Khaki capris-they go with everything!
S-Sonic drinks. :)
G-George Strait's music.
I-Internet.
V-Visiting (via phone, internet, or face to face with family & friends).
I-Invitations...preferrably making them, but receiving them is also nice!
N-Naps.
G-Gobstoppers. The green ones are the best!

So, what are you thankful for??

We Are Hungry For More of You, Jesus

2008-11-26T13:26:00.001-08:00

Food For Thought

2008-11-26T13:08:00.000-08:00

This morning Ericson said, "And Mom, you know what? The other night when I was in bed, my tummy was growling. I knew I couldn't get up and eat, so I prayed. And then my tummy didn't growl anymore! I think I was hungry for Jesus!"

I thought that was pretty neat!

"You still the hunger of those you cherish..." Psalm 17:14

"Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." Matthew 4:4

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." Matthew 5:6

The following post is a song that came to mind, and I thought the message fit right in with this subject.

Instead of simply stuffing ourselves with physical food tomorrow, may we hunger for Jesus this week!!!

Fill your lives with Him!

N's Personality in Pictures

2008-11-24T09:19:00.001-08:00

These are but a few examples of the range of emotions we experience daily with Noah, and show but a glimpse of his true personality. One of these days I'm going to have to write a book...but you probably wouldn't believe me if I told you anyway. :) Here's a sample of "accomplishments" in his short life so far...I wonder what the future holds?

1. He's broken a glow-in-the-dark bracelet and dripped the juice in his eyes (intentionally) because he wanted his eyes to glow.

2. He unlocked his car door and jumped out while I was pulling up to their school...Thank the Lord for school zones!

3. He ate Floor-tile adhesive at our former pastor's house because he "wanted the frosting!" I'm telling you, this child has a sugar craving unlike any other I've ever seen.

4. When he was right under 2 years old, I unbuckled him from his car seat. He literally jumped out of the car, ran around the back and immediately grabbed my tail pipe!! A quick trip to the ER, some meds. for the pain, and he recovered quite nicely from the 2nd degree burns. Thankfully, the next couple of times he pulled that stunt, my car hadn't been driven, so the tail pipe was cool. ????

5. He opened 2 entire boxes of my contact lenses and disposed of them. Not sure if they went down the sink or in the trash.? When confronted, he finally admitted to the crime, and told me he was playing with "those invisible things."

6. He put an empty shotgun shell (that he found after P's cousin went hunting at our place) into a battery charger...then inserted his finger to see what would happen. A nice little "shock" to the system.

7. He got into some locked cabinets in our church, snuck out with a book of matches, a candle and a lighter...then proceeded to set paper towels on fire in the kid's bathroom!! We had a nice little chat (at my request) with the Fire Marshall, Mr. Buster Chase. Nice man!

8. 4th day of school this past September...I get a call from the school nurse. N "found" something in the restroom, and was "brave" enough to report it to his teacher. In actuality, he took one of my insulin syringes to school!!! WITHOUT THE LID ON IT!!!!????? I about had a heart attack. I didn't even know he knew where my supplies were kept...I keep them hidden, I promise!

I could go on, but your brain probably can't handle anymore at this moment in time. ;)

I love this little boy more than you'll ever know-in spite of everything we've been through! There is NO doubt in my mind WHATSOEVER that God brought him to us...maybe not as a peaceful, sleeping newborn, but as a chubby, screaming, 30 pound, 10 month old. I had no idea what we were in for at the time, but I am so humbled and honored to be his mother. He daily teaches me more and more about God's grace and mercy and forgiveness and unconditional love than I ever thought possible. I didn't find this out until some time after the adoption was final, but did you know that adopted children are legally bound to you forever? You can disown your biological children, but never an adopted one?? Sound familiar? We're all adopted into God's family as His children, and we cannot lose our salvation! Pretty cool, huh?

A saturated sponge...

2008-11-23T19:51:00.000-08:00

That's the word picture that comes to mind when I think about praying for my children. Envision a sink full of water...holding a sponge under the surface, allowing the sponge to absorb and soak up as much water as possible. When you take it out of the water, squeezing it isn't necessary in order to see what's inside. It can't help but pour out. That's what I want for my children!! I want them to be so totally immersed, and covered in prayer, that it's just dripping off and out of them.

Sadly though, I normally feel like I'm just dipping my fingers in the water and then sprinkling that over my children.

Have you thought of any creative ways to lift your children up in prayer throughout the day? If so, leave a comment...I'd love to hear your ideas!

11 Years Ago Today...

2008-11-22T19:57:00.000-08:00

I became Mrs. Paul Baker! I can't believe 11 years have gone by so quickly!? In those 11 years, we have acquired 3 children, moved 6 times, gained and lost 20+ cats, 2 dogs, 1 bird, 14+ chickens and a rooster. :)

When I woke up this morning, Paul was in the shower, so I jumped out of bed, got his gift from it's hiding place, put it in front of the bathroom door, then climbed back in bed. These hard wood floors are cold!! When he opened the door, he said, "You beat me to it! I wanted to give you yours first!" So he went and got my present...he surprised me with a beautiful pair of diamond earrings!! Or if you look at them in view of eternity, I'm wearing small bits of the wall in my ears! Ha-ha! :)

Around noon we went to Paul's grandparent's 67th Wedding Anniversary party and hung out with family for most of the afternoon. The boy's especially had a blast! One of Paul's cousins, Jay, is an archaeologist, and upon learning of Ericson's love of archaeology, he gave both boys a few dinosaur bones, shark teeth, and even...petrified dinosaur poop!!?? The boy's are fascinated to say the least! :) Jay even invited us to go on a dig with him, so we're looking at the calendar to find a good time. After that, Noah ran and got a piece of paper and a pen, thrust them at Jay, and asked for his autograph! Ha-ha! :) When Jay wrote his name down, Noah responded with, "SWEET NIBLETS!!!" And then jumped and ran out the front door! They are so funny!

My sister Sara offered to keep our kid's for us tonight so we could go out to eat, so when we left the party, we dropped them off at her apartment, and ate dinner at the Olive Garden. It wasn't planned this way, but that's actually where we ate on our Honey Moon. It was fun reminiscing about our wedding day 11 years ago. We have both changed and grown so much. I am truly blessed beyond measure with having Paul as my husband and best friend!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY PAUL!! I LOVE YOU!!!

Ode to N's Tooth

2008-11-21T21:19:00.000-08:00

My original plan was to post just the previous two pictures, since N lost a tooth this morning...by force of course! That's just N's way. :) But it got me to thinking about him...and you can't possibly even begin to sum up N's personality with just 2 pictures. However, to keep this post relatively short, I'll start with the original plan and then post more at another time.

I walked in the kitchen this morning to find N with dental floss tied around his loose tooth, and so far up the gum line he couldn't get it off. Since he couldn't remove the floss, he decided he was going to remove the tooth...even though it was noticeably loose, it wasn't ready to come out!! Next thing I know, he's tied the floss to the cabinet door. I didn't really think it would work, but he slammed the door, and how I wish I had a video camera! The surprised look on his face as he watched his tooth fly through the air, the excitement as he hollered, "Now we get ice cream today!!!", to the thrill of grossing his sister out as he showed her the blood that quickly covered the rest of his teeth in his mouth was pretty entertaining (and gross). N is certainly one of a kind! :) The top picture is what I found when I went to put his money under his pillow. We don't do the Tooth Fairy thing around here...even though they know it's P and I that are replacing the tooth with money, they still want to play along. :) Don't ask me how this got started, but one random fact about my children is that they name their teeth (when they lose them??). I'm assuming N meant to name this one, "Bobby" but notice the spelling. I guess it would be pronounced "Bo-bee." :) I'll have to ask him about that one in the morning. There's no telling where it came from.

N is very determined, and it just cracks me up sometimes with the thoughts that cross his mind!? I have three videos of him when he was trying to get his first loose tooth out, and they're hilarious!! You can see the intensity in his face as he's focusing on finding a way to remove the tooth. But that will have to wait until another day.

(On a side note, he is NOT completely dyslexic...the name "Boby" is written on one side of the ziploc bag, with his name & other info. on the other.) ;)

Until then...

Please Pray!

2008-11-19T15:30:00.001-08:00

**Update!**

My friend Connie texted me a little earlier and her brother (Pee-Wee) does in fact have cancer. They were waiting for the doctor to come in so they could tell him the news. Please continue to keep this family in your prayers! Thanks!!

Would you all please be praying for my good friend & Sister-in-Christ, Connie? Her dad passed away 3 years ago from cancer, and her mom passed away the day before Valentine's Day this year-also from cancer. She's still hurting and struggling with those losses...and then today, she received news that her brother in Tennessee has a tumor in his chest. He will be having a biopsy done sometime soon.

Connie is understandably very upset, and I know she would covet your prayers both for healing and for peace and comfort.

Thanks!!!

My 8's

2008-11-17T06:34:00.000-08:00

Enjoy!

8 TV Shows (in no particular order...I very rarely even watch TV!!):

1. American Idol
2. Extreme Makeover-Home Edition
3. Jimmy Kimmel (sometimes I laugh, sometimes I want to jump through the TV & choke him)
4. Local News
5. Cops
6. House
7. Diff'rent Strokes Reruns
8. Tori & Dean (only on occasion at my friend Connie's...we don't even have cable.)

8 Restaurants:

1. Johnny Carino's (their garlic/oil is the best!)
2. Jason's Deli
3. Red Lobster
4. Palacios Mexican Restaurant
(Chips & hot sauce are a mandatory staple in this woman's diet) :)
5. Olive Garden
6. Joe's Crab Shack
7. Sonic
8. Texas Road House

8 Things That Happened Today (the day is just getting started, so I'm going to reminisce about yesterday):

1. Went to church.
2. Went to my parent's house.
3. Ate lunch.
4. Visited with my cousin Patty, who is in from Corpus for a visit.
5. Played with my nieces and nephew.
6. Listened to Alli cry (several times). For some reason, the swing was really attracted to the left side of her face.??
7. Drove home.
8. Went to sleep.

Now doesn't that sound like a fascinating day??

8 Things I'm Looking Forward To:

1. Our Women's Bible Study tomorrow night.
2. Picking up my kid's from school this afternoon.
3. A few more hours of peace & quiet before I pick up my kid's from school this afternoon.
4. Spending the day with Paul since he's off of work today.
5. Decorating for Christmas.
6. Going Christmas shopping.
7. My anniversary in 5 days.
8. Seeing my mom and Patty sometime today.

There you have it folks! Just more random, useless information you probably didn't care to know about me. ;)

A Cry for Help!

2008-11-15T04:23:00.000-08:00

I just had to post this! We're up early this Saturday morning because Jamie's Robotic's team is heading to Kingsville for it's competition. When I woke Ericson up, he starts sniffing and I could tell he had a stuffy nose. He then starts talking and his voice is pretty hoarse as well. He gets up, makes his bed, gets dressed and then proceeds to take his dirty clothes to the hamper. I'm in the other room when I hear this quiet, hoarse voice say, "Help?" I go in the kitchen/dining room, and find Ericson in the hamper. Don't ask me how he fell in, but instead of reaching in to help him, I said, "Wait! Do you mind if I grab the camera first??" He just grins and says, "I'll wait."

Have a great Saturday everyone!

Recipe for a Happy Home

2008-11-14T17:22:00.000-08:00

With Thanksgiving coming up in less than 2 weeks, there's lots of planning & preparing to do! I'm sure you have recipes galore and grocery lists coming out the wazoo! This is a recipe of another kind that I've concocted. I keep a framed copy on my kitchen counter-it's great anytime of year!

Recipe for a Happy Home

Ingredients:

God
1 Husband
1 Wife
Children (add as many as you like)
1 Gallon Love
1 Part Open Communication
2 Handfuls of Faith
Generous portion of Time Together
3 C. Laughter (packed)
1 Heaping Tbsp. Forgiveness
Patience (in abundance)
1 C. Honesty

Keeping God at the center of your family, combine all other ingredients.
Stir frequently with tenderness.
Sprinkle freely with grace and mercy.
Cover with much prayer.

Enjoy!!!

The Heebie-Jeebies

2008-11-10T18:38:00.000-08:00

After I got home from picking up the kid's at school this afternoon, I immediately went and laid down on my bed for a short nap. Not quite sure why, but ever since I woke up, I haven't been in the most pleasant of moods. In fact, I've been downright crabby!

The kid's and I had to go to a meeting this evening at 6:45 at the high school, and on the way home, Noah was taking pleasure in bothering & grossing out Ericson. I couldn't exactly make out everything that was being said or done, but it's normally something along the lines of picking his nose, making crude remarks of some kind, etc. Ericson finally said, "Noah, stop!!" Noah then responded with great delight and said, "What!? Am I giving you the PG's????" Ericson then says, "Noah, it's called the Heebie-Jeebies!"

It gave everyone a much needed laugh...especially myself!

"A cheerful heart is good medicine..." Proverbs 17:22

Innocent Blood

2008-11-09T19:08:00.000-08:00

I was just now cleaning out my computer cabinet (it's behind closed doors, so I can normally get away with keeping it in a semi-trashed state, but it was pretty bad), and I came across a piece of paper that reminded me of a funny on Ericson.

Last October, the kid's and I were riding with our now pastor and his wife, with 2 of their teenage girls to the County Fair. We had just met them a few weeks earlier, so we were still trying to put our best foot forward. On the way, I was telling them another funny on Ericson & Noah. Ericson got really embarassed, and his 8 year old brain couldn't quite figure out how to get me to stop before I got any further, so he did the only thing he could think of...he SCREAMED!!!! Not just a short scream, but a scream that lasted about 5 seconds. I got upset, and under my breath, I said to him, "If you ever act like that again, I'm going to knock your teeth out of your mouth!" (Ashamedly, yes, I have a tendency at times to overreact and say things that I would never truly carry out...similar to when my dad would ask, "Do you want me to knock you into the middle of next week?" Ah, good times!) When we got out of the van, he immediately grabs my hand as we walk towards the gate and says, "You know Mom, when I screamed, I'm sure you did want to knock my teeth out, but...doesn't the Bible say something about not shedding innocent blood??" He then cocks his head up at me and grins! I laughed so hard!!

Nothing like quoting Bible verses to your mother to put her in her place! :)

Maranatha!

2008-11-04T20:40:00.000-08:00

In light of the results of the Presidential Election, all I can say is, "Come Lord Jesus!"

That's pretty much all I've got to say about that.

Post Election Sermon

2008-11-04T16:23:00.000-08:00

My mom sent me this, but I'm not sure where it originally came from. It's a good reminder!

Dear Friends,

For months now my email Inbox has been besieged by nearly hysterical warnings about what will happen if Barack Obama becomes President. I have been encouraged to be worried, afraid, concerned, prepared for disaster, and a whole host of other maladies if this happens. I do not deny the importance of this election, but it seems to me that we need a dose of perspective. So here, on the eve of the election, I would like to start my own email concerning this election. It’s a “True/False” test. I’d like for all of us to take it. Feel free to email it on to whomever:

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, Jesus will still be King.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our responsibilities as Christians will not have changed one iota.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the greatest agent for social change in America will still be winning the hearts and minds of men and women through the gospel, not legislation.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my primary citizenship will still be in this order – (1) the Kingdom of God, (2) America, not vice-versa.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the tomb will still be empty.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the cross, not the government, will still be our salvation.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our children will still be more concerned with whether or not we spend time with them than with who is President.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my neighbor will still be my neighbor, and loving him/her will still be the second greatest commandment. (Do you know the first?)

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the only way to see gay marriage ultimately defeated will still be winning men and women to a biblical view of marriage through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my retirement will still not match my treasure in Heaven.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, “Jesus Is Lord” will still be the greatest truth in the Universe.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, we will still know that God is in control.

How did you score?

So be sure to vote, but also remember who you are and who He is.

Bible Verse Scavenger Hunt

2008-11-04T13:40:00.001-08:00

I wanted to tell you about a neat little thing I did for the kids a while back...Although I can't take full credit for it. I own a book by Shirley Dobson and Gloria Gaither, entitled, "Making Ordinary Days Extraordinary." One of their ideas was to go on a scavenger hunt around the house. I started to think about everything I could do and how I could pull it off. You can certainly add to this list, come up with your own ideas, and change it as you need to (depending on the ages of the kids, etc.), but I wanted to let you know how we did ours. It was so much fun!!!

First, I found some paper and printed out a sign that said, "Each day brings its own surprises." Proverbs 27:1. I put each one in an envelope, labeled it with each childs name and took them to their school while they were at lunch and laid them on their desk.

Next, I stuck another clue in a pocket in the back seat of the car (peaking out), that said, "So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by LETTER." 2 Thessalonians 2:15. That took us to the post office, where they found their next clue...

"I rejoiced with those who said to me, "Let us go to the house of the Lord." Psalm 122:1. We went to the church where they searched for their next clue...

"Sing to him a new song; PLAY skillfully, and shout for joy." Psalm 33:3. That took us to the children's park where they got to play for a while (until they found their next clue).

It said, "Then Joshua blessed them and sent them away, and they went to their homes." Joshua 22:6.

So then we loaded up and went back home where their "surprise" was waiting. Homemade sugar cookies with the Bible verse, "Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him." Psalm 34:8.

It was a blast and I thought your kids/grandkids/friends/students might enjoy doing something like that as well. Just an idea...

Love Dare-Day 5 Recap

2008-11-02T20:52:00.000-08:00

Well, the Dare for today was to ask your spouse (or other guinea pig you're experimenting with) to tell you three things you do that make them uncomfortable or irritated. I had a few extra minutes today, so when I saw this person, I asked the question. The answer really didn't surprise me...I know I'm guilty. It was my tone of voice when I'm irritated, frustrated, upset or angry with this person. But honestly, ever since beginning this Love Dare, I've really become aware of what I'm allowing to come out of my mouth-and in the way it comes across. I believe with continued prayer, things will only improve!

My dare for tomorrow, Day 6 is: "Choose today to react to tough circumstances in your marriage (in my case, other relationship) in loving ways instead of with irritation. Begin by making a list of areas where you need to add margin to your schedule (assuming some of the irritations are being caused by stress, which is being caused by being over-loaded). Then list any wrong motivations that you need to release from your life."

More to come tomorrow. It's way past my bedtime as it is.

Rescue

2008-11-02T11:57:00.000-08:00

At church this past Sunday, one of the songs we sang was, "Rescue." Have you ever heard it? It says:

"I need you, Jesus, to come to my rescue. Where else can I go? There's no other name by which I am saved. Capture me with grace. I will follow you. This world has nothing for me. I will follow you."

As the song was playing, I started thinking about all the struggles represented there in the lives simply within our church family & how we all truly need Jesus to come to our rescue...one couple just buried their oldest son (20 years old)...one was just diagnosed with Melanoma this past week...one lost her home in Hurricane Katrina, then moved to Texas, only to have her house burn down around her...one just lost both her parents within a 3 year span and is still struggling...one just had knee surgery and lives alone...one is dealing with Lupus...one is dealing with a special needs child...and the list goes on.

Then tonight, I received a phone call from my mom telling me that the doctor's believe my Aunt Maria has Lymphoma. She'll be having a biopsy done tomorrow to confirm this diagnosis.

And as I sit here typing this, guess what song just started playing? "Mighty to Save." Here's the chorus:

"Saviour, He can move the mountains. My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save. Forever, Author of salvation, He rose and conquered the grave. Jesus conquered the grave."

This is no coincedence...now the radio is playing Nicole C. Mullen's song, "When I Call on Jesus." I love the way God speaks to me through music!!

We must remember that no matter what the circumstances, Jesus is our only hope! He is mighty to save! All things are possible with God!

Would you please join me in praying specifically for my Uncle Lawrence & Aunt Maria? If there's anything you need prayer for, please leave me a comment. I would be honored to join you at the throne of Grace.

Love Dare-Day 4

2008-11-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

UGH!!! I just typed my whole update, and the stupid computer kicked me off line (without saving my post)!! Now I have to retype everything. I hate stupid computers! Have I mentioned my computer's stupid?? I'm very tired!

We just got back from Judgment House, and I'm worn out! Of course, not from Judgment House...it's all this going to bed late and getting up early these past few days. We don't have anything going tomorrow after church though, so I may reward myself with a nap! But we also get to set our clocks back one hour tonight. Whoo-hoo!!!! I better go do that before I forget and we show up to church one hour early...But, better early than late, I suppose.

Real quick...Day 4 was pretty uneventful. The Dare was quite frankly boring. I liked yesterday's dare much better! But then again, this Dare isn't about me. I haven't read the Dare for tomorrow yet...

Tomorrow is also my weekly weigh-in. I don't have high hopes for this week though. :( However, on Monday I'm going to start working out with a couple of friends from church, so hopefully that will get me going in the right direction.

That's all for tonight, folks! Thanks for tuning in. We'll be back tomorrow evening at about 9:00 p.m.

Good night America.

Love Dare-Day 3 Update

2008-10-31T21:56:00.000-07:00

Well, I must say that today I actually enjoyed the dare. It involved buying them something just to let them know you were thinking about them. It got my mind to working and thinking about my family. I found each of them a gift for about $2 each at Wal-Mart...gifts that reminded me of things they liked. I then attached a note and left them on their beds for them to find.

Paul got a little bag of fishing weights with a note that read, "You have my heart-hook, line & sinker." I also put a Bible verse on there from Ephesians 1:16: "I have not stopped giving thanks for you..."

Jamie got a package of beads for making bracelets (that is her passion) and her note read, "In the same way you enjoy making and creating beautiful pieces of jewelry, you are a unique, beautiful creation of God. You have many talents and abilities and I pray you use them for God's glory. I love watching you learn and grow into God's one-of-a-kind design. "Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands." Psalm 119:73

Ericson received a packet of broccoli seeds. He loves to plant things!!! His note read, "In the same way you enjoy planting things and watching them grow, I am so enjoying watching you grow...into a Godly young man who honors his father and mother, prays for others and enjoys life. You bring so much joy to me! "May our sons flourish in their youth like well-nurtured plants." Psalm 144:12

Noah got a bag of bite-sized Snickers bars. He loves sugar more than just about anything else on the face of this earth! His note read, "You are sweeter than all the candy in this bag! God has blessed and honored me by allowing me to be your mom. I love all your "Snickers", giggles and songs each day. You bring a song to my heart! "Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy." Psalm 126:2

Tomorrow the dare is to contact your spouse (or in my case, the other person you're doing this experiment on) with the purpose of simply asking how they're doing and seeing if there's anything you could do for them. Sounds easy enough.

I'll keep you posted!

I Wanna Be a Swimmin' Pickle!!

2008-10-30T19:47:00.000-07:00

Imagine a small child standing on the side of a swimming pool. It's the first day of swimming lessons. This child has big dreams of one day becoming an Olympic swimmer and winning the gold medal! He desperately wants to learn how to swim, so his parent's have arranged private lessons with the USA Swimming Coach! He can hardly contain his enthusiasm...he's dancing around, giddy with excitement! The coach is already in the pool, ready for the lessons to begin. But when the coach calls the child into the water, instead of jumping in, the child just stands there wringing his hands and talking to himself. The coach can hear him say, "Oh, I want to be a gweat swimmuh! I want to be the best! I want my coach to be so pwoud! I want him to pick me to be the captain of the team!" The coach knows that this child has potential, and if he would simply obey, he would actually do well. So the coach tries to get the child's attention again, but to no avail. This time the child is heard saying, "This doesn't make any sense! Why can't I lun how to swim?? I'm at the pool! I wish he would huwwy up and teach me somethin'!" The coach is starting to get a little frustrated, but attempts one more time to get the child's attention, calling out his name. Still nothing. The child is still talking to himself. He's still wanting to learn how to swim, but his excitement is fading while the disappointment & frustration is growing that he just can't swim and doesn't understand why!?

Sounds crazy, doesn't it? In order to become a great swimmer, first he would have to at least get in the water! Secondly, he would need to spend lots of time in the pool-watching, listening & following his coach's instructions. Would he ever make it to the Olympics if he were to only commit to 10 minutes of practice & only on the days when it's convenient and fits in his schedule? He would never reach his goal, would he?

That's how it is with us as Christians. We want to be transformed and renewed. We long to grow closer to Christ. We yearn to know Him more. We desire to be filled to overflowing with the fruit of His Spirit and for others to see Christ when they look at our lives. Yet we're not willing to spend time with our Coach. Instead of diving into the Living Water of His Word on a daily basis, we stand on the side of the pool, dipping our toes in every now and then by reading a Psalm or Proverb for the day...occasionally jumping in for an extended swim by spending a few minutes in prayer, before getting out again to run off to other things that clamor for our attention while our coach is left waiting in the pool. And then when we don't see His fruit being produced in our lives, we wonder why?

Jesus tells us in John 15:4 to remain in Him. He says, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."

I'm not saying that by spending time with Jesus, we'll begin to produce the fruit on our own-we cannot. We're just branches. We are the fruit bearer's. But we do have to choose to remain in Christ by reading His word, spending time with Him in prayer, and then He will bring about the desired results, transforming us to be more like Him.

I know a cucumber is not a fruit, but I read recently about the process of turning cucumbers into pickles. It's a really neat word picture in relation to who we are in Christ. You can't dip a cucumber in the brine and expect immediate changes, if any (much like taking a dip in the swimming pool for 10 minutes and expecting to come out an Olympic medalist). It takes continual soaking, and yet once the changes take place, it will never be the same-it can never revert back to it's previous state of a cucumber. It has a different texture, flavor, purpose & name. We too as Christians need to be continually soaking our hearts and minds in His word. When He gets done with us, we'll look pretty much the same on the outside, but the inside will be radically different!

Anybody willing to take the plunge into some Living Water today? I don't want to be a cucumber anymore-I wanna be a swimmin' pickle! :)

Love Dare-Day 2 Update

2008-10-30T19:40:00.001-07:00

Well, we're at the end of Day 2. In addition to having to keep my mouth shut today, I also had to perform one random act of kindness.

In regards to my attitude lately, I feel like I'm not even on the playing field. I'm in the negative. So any act of kindness, as small and simple as it may be (such as opening the door, picking up an item that was dropped, etc.), I consider progress.

We had another confrontation this morning, but I just prayed my way through it, and asked God to set a guard over my mouth and keep my lips sealed.

In tomorrow's dare, (also in addition to not saying anything negative) I'm supposed to buy something to let him/her know I'm thinking about them.

How about a bottle of Xanax? Just kidding!

Something to think about...

2008-10-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

I'm reading a book by Dr. David Jeremiah called, "Escape the Coming Night." I haven't gotten very far into it yet, but this part I thought was really neat and wanted to share it with you all. Check this out:

"Some people have asked, "If there are so many to be judged (regarding the Judgment Seat of Christ), why doesn't Christ judge them immediately on their death, instead of letting all those millions of people pile up at the last minute?"

The answer is that we don't finish our work when we die. It lives on after us. What we have done on earth, if it amounts to anything, continues after we die physically. How could there be rewards and judgments when our earthly life is over? Our influence upon friends, family, the people we knew during our lifetimes, does not cease when our obituaries appear in the local paper. Your testimony will live on, and it's ripple effect will touch more lives than we will ever know until the kingdom comes."

Kind of makes you think twice about your life, doesn't it?

Love Dare-Day 2

2008-10-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

Before I head off to bed for the night, I wanted to post real quick on the Love Dare, Days 1 & 2.

Instead of waiting until the morning, I like to be prepared & know what lies ahead...So my plan is to read the next day's Dare the night before.

Summary: Day 1 was tough. Really tough at moments. But we made it through. Tomorrow, we have to keep Day 1's Dare of not saying anything negative, but we're also supposed to perform a random act of kindness. I'm praying on this to see how God might have me serve...? No bright ideas have hit me yet.

When I sat down to read just a few minutes ago, the Bible verse staring me in the face was from Ephesians 4:32..."Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you."

Sound familiar? It falls right in line with my study this morning!! Why do I get so surprised when things like this happen? I know God has orchestrated this, and he works ALL things together for good (Romans 8:28). God is obviously trying to teach me something here...I think it would be wise for me to sit down, buckle up and hold on!! He's about to take me for a ride.

I'll send you a postcard. ;)

Coincedence? I think not.

2008-10-29T08:15:00.000-07:00

I think God's trying to tell me to "Shut up!" Well, I don't think He would use that exact wording. However, the message is still the same. I need to learn to keep my mouth shut more than I do...or at least be kinder when I do speak.

This blog jumps around quite a bit today, so try your best to follow me here, alright?

This past week, I've had a really bad attitude with someone. I've had several friends offer to pray for me, while other's tell me that they'll be praying for this person to change. And while that certainly would be nice, I can't wait around for those changes to occur before I make changes of my own. I'm not saying this person's behavior is to be accepted and condoned. This person is at times very wrong in some things...however, God commands us in His Word to love others the way He has loved us-regardless of what they may or may not be doing. There is no escape clause in that verse. And yet humanly, there is NO WAY I can do it!! Trust me. I've tried. I've failed. I've tried again. I've failed again. I've tried many, many, many times...and once again, I've failed many, many, many times. It's not humanly possible to love others with God's love. It has to be Him reaching down into, and then through us. Imagine a cyclist's glove. A glove in and of itself can do nothing. But when it's filled with the hand, the fingers can reach out even past the extent of where the glove stops, and allows the glove to do things it couldn't do otherwise. Kind of neat, huh?

Well, last night after our Women's Bible Study (another story in and of itself), a friend of mine & I went to Wal-Mart to look for the book "Love Dare" (the one talked about in the movie, "Fireproof"). She was wanting to read it with her husband & hopefully help out their marriage. I on the other hand just love to read-regardless of what it is or whether I need it or not. The price was marked at $10.43, so we both grabbed a copy. On the way back to my car (it was parked at the church), she had me read the first part to her. The Dare for Day 1 is to not say anything negative to your spouse. Honestly, I normally don't have a problem in this area. But this person that I'm struggling with came to mind...as it did during the movie as well. I don't know if this Love Dare will work on someone other than a spouse.? I haven't cheated and looked ahead, but I'm thinking it might be worth a try. I'm sure it will have to be altered somewhat too.

This morning, when I woke up, I reached over and got my Bible. I've been reading in the book of Psalms. Today I started with Chapter 141, and the 3rd verse jumps out at me. This is what it says: "Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips."

Any coincedence that the Dare & this Bible verse go together? Okay, God, I'm hearing you.

Then after dropping the kid's off at school this morning, I went back to Wal-Mart in search of something I forgot to get yesterday. I happened to walk by the "Love Dare" books, and noticed the price on the remaining copies was $12.64!! I took that to be yet another confirmation from God that we needed those books last night! Gotta love a good deal! :)

After I got home from Wal-Mart, I grabbed my Bible Study, and sat down to read for today. This is part of what I found...

"You may feel overwhelmed by the events swirling around your life. Is there an end to the suffering? Like a raindrop in a mud puddle, the more you strive, the more muddy the water becomes. To be released from the muck and mire, you must allow the sun to release you from below to transport you above. Let Jesus take you up above your circumstances to see life from heaven's perspective where all will be made right in one single day."

This study is about being the bride of Christ, and this lesson was on wearing "clothing" fit for our position in Christ; to "put off" the deeds of fleshy, self-centered, self-absorbed behavior and to "put on" the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth." Ephesians 4:24

At the end of the lesson she asks us to choose one attitude from Ephesians 4:31 to put away or take off-

"Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice."

and to choose one attitude from Ephesians 4:32 to put on-

"Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you."

I can almost imagine God walking around up in Heaven with a cell phone to his ear saying, "Can you hear me now??" :)

So, if I happen to come to mind today, would you please pray for my attitude and that I would only allow kind words to come forth in my speech? I'll be sure to keep you posted on my "Love Dare" experiment.