Inside my head..

Broken

2011-03-28T14:08:00.001-05:00

It is common sense that when you break a bone, it grows back stronger. Also, if the bone is shattered, it is often replaced with something much stronger, and unbreakable. The Lord does the same thing with us... we must first become spiritually broken before we can be healed. Then, when we are healed we are stronger.

Fishers of Men

2011-03-28T14:07:00.000-05:00

Today I went fishing and the Lord brought this to my attention, so I thought I'd share: In calling His disciples to follow Him, Jesus said, "Follow me and I will make you fishers of men." I've always understood that the disciples were initially fishermen, but today I see it a little more clearly. When you fish, you must have patience and faith that you will catch something. You must be still and cautious as to not "scare the fish away". And some days you may catch some, some days you don't. But that doesn't make you a failure. As followers of Christ, we become fishers of men; we cast our lives for others to see, and faithfully await for someone to be drawn to the Holy Spirit that lives within us. We must proceed with care and faith to 'bring one in' for Jesus and to not scare people away. It is then, when the conditions are just right, that someone will surrender to the Lord. It is nothing we did, because all we did was say "look what I have, don't you want some???"

Matt 4:19, Mark 1:17, Psalm 46:10

Following the Leader

2011-03-28T14:06:00.000-05:00

Everybody remembers playing follow the leader, you just follow the person chosen as 'the leader' and do what they do. But what happened when you had a bigger kid in front of you and you couldn't see the leader? Easy, you just followed the bigger kid, right? Unless of course the other kid went his own way and decided to make himself the leader. Then, you weren't following the leader anymore, you were just following. Jesus said, "Follow me." It's our job to keep our eyes on the leader and follow Him. If we lose sight of Jesus and follow the others, there is a chance you could both fall into a ditch. I'm not saying that following someone else's leadership is bad, just be sure you don't make them the leader.

Just Because

2011-03-28T14:05:00.000-05:00

I can grasp the love of the Father because of my daddy,
I can feel the arms of the Comforter because of my mom,
I can understand the brotherly love of Jesus because of my sister and brothers,
I know God's love for His Bride because of my husband.
I am learning about God's patience and discipline because of my children,
I have come to understand sin because of my own actions and choices.
To everyone listed (and those that aren't) thank you for helping me grow; whether it was a light watering or a hurricane. I am grateful for all of you who have impacted my life and because of the different relationships we have. I am able to learn a little more about our God (and myself) every day. Thank you.

spontaneous combustion

2010-12-13T19:47:00.001-06:00

So pardon me while I burst into flames.I've had enough of the world and its people's mindless games.So pardon me while I burn and rise above the flame.Pardon me, pardon me...I'll never be the same! - Incubus

I've heard the voice of the HEAVENLY FATHER, been comforted by the HOLY SPIRIT, and have felt the love of JESUS CHRIST! I want my faith to spontaneously combust! Something to make others say "wow, what is that?" I don't want to be lukewarm. I don't want to exist, I want to LIVE!! I want to get the church out of the walls and into society, I want to see my kids' school impacted, my community changed!!!

If you've truly felt the heat from JESUS, you know that you'll never be the same. HE is the spontaneous combustion of our souls!!!!

.

23:4

2010-08-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

constant whirlwind
no start, no end
ever moving
reeking havoc
deadly living
constantly stuck
always angry
always snappy
never smiling
never happy
then a change
revelation
a new game
dedication
cup half full
never empty
a new life
free to be me
now there's hope
when there was none
heaven bound
i've just begun

Do you?

2010-07-31T18:48:00.000-05:00

Do you see her screaming to be heard,
Standing in the corner, but never says a word.
Do you look past the mask upon her face
Broken inside, delicate like lace
Do you rush past, too busy to care
Without noticing her empty stare.
She's the girl in the corner,
Screaming to be heard,
Her soul cries out loudly
But she never says a word.

still here...

2010-07-20T20:10:00.000-05:00

between family and school I haven't had much time to blog ~ that is, if you call what I do blogging. I have a lot of thoughts and revelations to post if anyone's interested. I'll put em up when I have some downtime :)

perspective

2010-04-06T13:46:00.001-05:00

How do we look to Jesus?
A room of empty seats,

With painted smiles and broken hearts
And our outfits all pressed neat.
How do I look to Jesus
With my heart open wide?
Am I lost among the crowd
Or does His Light inside me shine?
How do I sound to Jesus
When I sing a bit off-key?
Or does He hear His melodious voice
Coming out of me?
Is there one inside this room
Seeking with a pure heart?
One He's holding together, or else they'd fall apart.
Does that one spirit rise above the rest -
The one whose soaring spirit is their Sunday best?
Will He find us faithful,
Will we be standing firm there,
Or does He just see empty shells
Filling empty chairs?

perspective

2010-04-06T13:46:00.000-05:00

.......

2010-04-06T13:28:00.000-05:00

Pressed shirts, flowing skirts
Aisles of smiles
Handshakes, heartaches
Such is Sunday church.
Yearnung, burning,
Reaching for something
Don't back away now,
Don't look at the clock
Stay focused somehow!
Tick-tock-tick-tock-
Minutes on a face
Ticking one by one
Minutes in eternity
Cannot be re-done.
Rise up - RISE UP
Let your voice be heard!
Praise Him! Praise Him!
Stand up for The Word!!

A True Friend

2010-03-04T09:49:00.000-06:00

Who do you call when the going gets tough,
Maybe when life's bumps are a little too rough,
To dry your tears as they stream down your face,
Or gladly step in to stand in your place,
At 3am just to talk,
To stroll in house shoes around the block,
To reconnect after years have passed,
To share a smile, or spread a laugh,
To bail you out without asking why,
To lend a shoulder when you need to cry,
To comfort your broken heart,
To help you get a brand new start,
For correction when you're wrong,
When you are weak, He is strong...
When everything else has passed away,
Only a True Friend will remain.
John 15:13-15 2Cor12-9 1John2:2

worth your time

2010-02-08T10:24:00.000-06:00

This is excellent and really gets you thinking about what will happen in Heaven. 17-year-old Brian Moore had only a short time to write something for a class. The subject was what Heaven was like. "I wowed 'em," he later told his father, Bruce. It's a killer. It's the bomb. It's the best thing I ever wrote." It also was the last. Brian's parents had forgotten about the essay when a cousin found it while cleaning out the teenager's locker at Teays Valley High School in Pickaway County Brian had been dead only hours, but his parents desperately wanted every piece of his life near them, notes from classmates and teachers, and his homework. Only two months before, he had handwritten the essay about encountering Jesus in a file room full of cards detailing every moment of the teens life. But it was only after Brian's death that Beth and Bruce Moore realized that their son had described his view of heaven. It makes such an impact that people want to share it. "You feel like you are there," Mr. Moore said.. Brian Moore died May 27, 1997, the day after Memorial Day. He was driving home from a friend's house when his car went off Bulen-Pierce Road in Pickaway County and struck a utility pole. He emerged from the wreck unharmed but stepped on a downed power line and was electrocuted. The Moore 's framed a copy of Brian's essay and hung it among the family portraits in the living room. "I think God used him to make a point. I think we were meant to find it and make something out of it," Mrs. Moore said of the essay. She and her husband want to share their son's vision of life after death. "I'm happy for Brian. I know he's in heaven. I know I'll see him.

Here is Brian's essay entitled: " The Room." In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in the room. There were no distinguishing features except for the one wall covered with small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endless in either direction, had very different headings. As I drew near the wall of files, the first to catch my attention was one that read "Girls I have liked." I opened it and began flipping through the cards. I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one. And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was. This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn't match. A sense of wonder and curiosity, coupled with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and exploring their content. Some brought joy and sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching. A file named "Friends" was next to one marked "Friends I have betrayed." The titles ranged from the mundane to the outright weird. "Books I Have Read," "Lies I Have Told," "Comfort I have Given," "Jokes I Have Laughed at." Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: "Things I've yelled at my brothers." Others I couldn't laugh at: "Things I Have Done in My Anger", "Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents." I never ceased to be surprised by the contents Often there were many more cards than expected. Sometimes fewer than I hoped. I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the life I had lived. Could it be possible that I had the time in my years to fill each of these thousands or even millions of cards? But each card confirmed this truth. Each was written in my own handwriting. Each signed with my signature. When I pulled out the file marked "TV Shows I have watched," I realized the files grew to contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly, and yet after two or three yards, I hadn't found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so much by the quality of shows but more by the vast time I knew that file represented. When I came to a file marked "Lustful Thoughts," I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size, and drew out a card. I shuddered at its detailed content. I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded. An almost animal rage broke on me. One thought dominated my mind: No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see this room! I have to destroy them!" In insane frenzy I yanked the file out. Its size didn't matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards... But as I took it at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it. Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long, self-pitying sigh. And then I saw it. The title bore "People I Have Shared the Gospel With." The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle and a small box not more than three inches long fell into my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand. And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that they hurt. They started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves swirled in my tear-filled eyes... No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key. But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw Him. No, please not Him. Not here. Oh, anyone but Jesus. I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn't bear to watch His response. And in the moments I could bring myself to look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own.. He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes. Why did He have to read every one? Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn't anger me. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn't say a word. He just cried with me. Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card. "No!" I shouted rushing to Him. All I could find to say was "No, no," as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn't be on these cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, and so alive. The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written with His blood. He gently took the card back He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the cards. I don't think I'll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, "It is finished."

glasses

2010-02-02T09:52:00.000-06:00

I got my first pair of glasses when I was in first grade. I remember riding home from the optometrist and telling my mom everything I could see: the leaves on the trees, airplanes in the sky, blades of grass, the letters on the street signs. I was so excited because I had never seen so clearly before. I remember my mom telling me that she didn't realize that I couldn't see. I never said anything because I didn't know any different. I thought everyone saw the world as I did. It wasn't until I put my glasses on that I could truly see clearly. When I went to school, so many of my classmates laughed and teased, but I wasn't going to miss seeing so much in order to make them stop. No matter how they noticed, everyone who knew me noticed there was something different about me.
Following Jesus is a lot like getting a new pair of glasses: you will realize that you were blind, you will realize how much you had been missing, you will never look at things the same, and people will notice the difference in you!

my favorite cup

2010-01-22T15:51:00.000-06:00

I had a cup a few years ago. It was my favorite cup EVER! I could fill it with ice water & throughout the day I never had to replenish the ice, just had to add water; & it was still freezing cold! Just the way I like it! The only downfall was that it didn't fit in the cup holders of my car, so I had to hold onto it all the time, and I had to wash it everyday! Following that same line of thinking: we are God's favorite us. We each have our own specialties that make us just the way Jesus wants us. As God's children, we may not fit into the world's cup holders; that just means the Lord has to hold onto us at all times. Also, since we're not self-cleansing, the Lord will clean us as often as we ask Him to. Removing any sins that exist no matter how long we've waited to ask. Jesus fills us up every day, He only expects us to pour out to others as He's poured into us. I'm glad to be one of the Lord's favorite cups; especially since I know He will never forget me on the roof of the car!
Ps 23:5 John 13:5-9

experience

2010-01-19T09:54:00.000-06:00

Many of the sports announcers are former players. Most of them were considered great, or the best of their time. Many political advisors are former politicians, and most of the news analysts are simply well experienced reporters. One thing they all have in common is that they are considered an "expert" in their field. Why? Because they have an intricate knowledge of the basic and advanced workings in their specific field of interest. Through their experience they have learned what works, what doesn't, and why. Most of the time, they are aware of the outcome of any given situation.
Jesus is a true expert of being human. He's lived on this earth, faced temptation, rejection, frustration, sorrow, anger, betrayal, sympathy, compassion, happiness, love, admiration, and devotion. Why then do we reject Jesus's words of wisdom? Are we destined to learn from our mistakes, or can we at least try to learn from those who lived before us? Can we take the advice from those who literally walked with Jesus and aspired to live as He did? They were just like you and I - HUMAN. If they could do great things with Jesus on their side and the Holy Spirit in their hearts, why can't we?

tools

2010-01-11T09:32:00.000-06:00

Eze 40:4 Ps 130:5 Rom 8:30
Inside my husband's tool box there are many different tools. Each one designed for a certain job. There are really really big ones and really really small ones and many others that fall somewhere in between. Some are very heavy some are light. Some are complex and others are simple. Every time my hubby has a job to do, the tools are waiting to be used. The hammer is prepared to pound on something, the wrench ready to turn the specific bolt size that fits it. The four way never tries to be a jack, so it lies in wait always at the ready to turn a lug nut when the moment is right. We are all designed for a purpose. The Lord crafted us each specifically according to our job function. When we accept Jesus as our savior, we become a part of His tool collection and we should never try to be something we're not, or try to do somebody else's job. Instead, we should keep being the person God created us as and patiently wait in His tool box until He is ready to use us. While we wait we should keep ourselves in good condition by reading the Bible and praying because if the tool is not oiled frequently it will rust.

watching

2009-12-18T16:08:00.000-06:00

2Chron 16:9 Prov 15:3 James 4:17
We always watch ourselves and make sure we are carefully following all of the rules when we see a cop in the rear view mirror, or when our parents are standing over our shoulder. In the same manner, we should remember that God is always watching us and we should take extra care to watch ourselves in everything we do, as if we could look back and see God in our rear view mirror, or standing over our shoulder.

fishing

2009-12-04T08:57:00.000-06:00

Jesus said "I will make you fishers of men." He didn't give us a net & say "Here, figure it out." He said "I will make you". We climb aboard His boat and He begins to teach us all about the boat. How it functions, how to brave the storms, what to do in an emergency. Above all, He shows us that He is the captain. Then, he teaches us all about our fishing equipment. How it's made, how it works, etc. When our knowledge is solid, He places the net in our hands and shows us where to cast it. He carefully teaches us how to bring it in so we don't break it or bring harm to the fish. Only after we show ourselves successful will He trust us with a heavier net in deeper water.

If I Were A Butterfly

2009-11-11T10:17:00.000-06:00

If I were a butterfly
I'd like to be blue,
With white streaks, black spots,
And maybe yellow too.
I could flutter by peacefully
From flower to flower,
Enjoying every minute,
Embracing every hour.
Anyone who saw me
Would marvel at my wings,
I would remind them to slow down
And enjoy the little things.
Yes, if I were a butterfly
Everyone would forget:
I started as a caterpillar
That God wasn't done with yet!

life's a beach

2009-10-28T11:07:00.000-05:00

John 13:8, Titus 3:5, 1John 1:7
When you go to the beach, one thing is certain, you will get sand & salt somewhere on your body. If you just sit in a chair, you might only get it in your hair & on your feet. But if you're like me at all, you'll at least have your feet buried in the sand and will rinse off in the ocean, becoming so consumed by your surroundings, that you will get salt & sand in places you didn't even know you had! So you rinse off in the little showers, which barely get the stuff off your face. It still stays in your bathing suit, on your feet, in your car, and possibly in your house. It's only when you wash everything extensively that you can get rid of the tag along salt & sand. For instance, if you take a good long shower, and wash every part of your body twice, but fail to wash your shoes or your car, you will likely get salt & sand on you without traveling to the beach again. After every trip to the shore, you will have to wash everything again.
Life's a beach. Sand is sin of commission. Salt is sin of omission. Jesus is the water that cleanses us.

perspective

2009-10-27T08:26:00.000-05:00

Matt 17:20,14:36,10:33
Not: Can I move this mountain?
Rather: Which mountain would I move?
Not: Can God bring me through this?
Rather: Which way will God take me through this?
Not: What will others think of me if I do?
Rather: What will Jesus think of me if I don't?

God the farmer

2009-10-27T08:24:00.001-05:00

Orchard
10-26-09
Job 37:13 Prov 19:16 Luke 8:5-11 James 2:20
God plants our faith in us and sets our seed in His Word. Jesus is the Water and Light that we need in order to grow. If we deny Jesus, our faith will wither away to nothing. It is our job to keep the weeds of sin out of our lives. If we allow one weed to remain, it will spread and will eventually rob us of the water and nutrients we need to live. Also, we must learn to discern good bugs from bad ones. By listening to the Holy Spirit, we can know which people will help us and those who will lead us down the path of destruction.
We cannot control how fast we grow. Sometimes we will encounter a harsh winter or rough situation that will test our strength. If our roots are not deep enough in Jesus, it will be tougher for us to endure the storm. There will also be rainy seasons, we may think we have too much rain and we might feel overwhelmed by God. Maybe just plain wore out. But we must never forget that He always provides the sunshine that will balance everything out - resulting in a growth spurt.
As long as we keep our roots in the Lord, feed off of His Word, and keep weeds and destructive bugs away from our tree, we will always produce fruit that He can take and plant in others.

rat

2009-10-27T08:24:00.000-05:00

let me clarify...

2009-10-15T16:56:00.000-05:00

My question to you oh reader of this little blog, if you believe you can be saved through faith in Jesus Christ, do you believe you can lose that salvation?

need feedback

2009-10-15T10:55:00.000-05:00

Life is such a whirlwind. Non-stop motion, even down time seems busy!!! I wanted to highlight my "ABF" class (that's what our church calls Sunday school). We got into a discussion on whether someone who commits suicide goes to hell or not. Then it evolved into a discussion on whether or not you can lose your salvation. I don't know who all reads this blog, but I would LOVE to hear your opinions on these matters. I am firm on my position because God has given me my opinion and confirmed it often, but I would love to hear your points of view & any scripture you use to stand on. This coming Sunday, we are scheduled to continue this discussion & I pray that everyone-including me- will continue to keep their ears & eyes open for the Lord's truth. Thanks a bunch!! I look forward to seeing what y'all have to say!!

truth

2009-10-02T10:09:00.000-05:00

Deut 32:4 Prov 3:5 Luke 24:44 John 20:29
A truth is something that has been proven. A lie is something that is not true. The Bible is full of many promised and proven truths. The Old Testament is full of God's promises that became reality. Whether it took a few hours or a few thousand years. It's easy to believe in a proven truth because you have the promise and the proof before you.
Sometimes we get caught up in things or situations and we believe something to be true when it isn't. The lie can be presented in such an alluring way that we want to believe it is a truth. This is the way Satan works. He is a liar, and will present his lies so well that they are "too good to be true". The enemy builds us up so high and tears us down so often that sometimes it becomes hard to trust anyone or anything.
I believe this is why there are so many names and details in the Old Testament. God is telling us "I am a truthful God!!". He establishes His honesty with us so that we can accept His unproven promises as truth. He keeps discloses everything so we don't find something out and wonder what else he is hiding.
It is sometimes hard to think of everything in the Bible as truth - especially if it hasn't been physically proven. But that's why God gives us faith. The belief that He is speaking the truth because He promised He would, and He backs up his reputation by showing us His track record.

wandering

2009-09-30T11:14:00.000-05:00

Gen 37:1 Gen 48:21 Num 34:2 Deut 8:2 Deut 9:7
Sometimes we wonder why God has allowed bad things to happen in our lives, or we think "how did I get here? The Israelites thought the same thing when their trip to the promised land (that should've taken a month at most) turned into forty years of wandering in the desert.
If you're not familiar with the story, here's a quick recap: Jacob (Israel) was from Canaan & through a series of events, his descendants ended up slaves in Egypt. God promised them that they would return to their father's land (Canaan). They follow the Lord & eventually come to the border of the Promised land. This is where they began to doubt the Lord & decided not to trust Him or follow His directions. By this time, God was more than frustrated with the Israelites and punished them by forcing them to wander for forty years! He did feed them & take care of them of course, but if they had decided to turn back & go to Egypt, do you think God would've said, "All right, let me show you the way & feed you on the way back."
All too often, we doubt the Lord or decide to try to handle things ourselves. This is when He decides we need to wander a bit. He is still with us & still takes care of us, but he allows us to mess things up so that we can realize that we can't do things by ourselves. Another example is when Peter stepped out of the boat (Matt 14:30). He was doing good, walking towards Jesus, then he took his eyes off of Jesus & started to doubt... THAT is when Peter started to sink!
The best way to approach a problem or situation is to keep our eyes, ears, & hearts focused on the Lord Jesus!!

idolatry

2009-09-25T11:19:00.000-05:00

Ps 135:15-18 Isa 2:18 Mark 13:31 Matt 6:21
Webster defines worship (used as a verb) as to have intense admiration or love for and the word idol is defined as an image, an object of worship; one who is revered or adored. Lastly, idolatry is defined as the worship of idols; excessive devotion.
So what?
When you are the only one awake in the middle of the night, what do you turn to? Internet, movies, food? On Monday morning we skip ahead and focus on the weekend, what do you focus on? Your paycheck, football/racing/hockey, drinking, hanging with friends, or being with the one you love? How about the beginning of the workday, what do you look forward to at the end? Having a beer, watching tv, eating dinner, video games?
Don't get me wrong, it's great to have hobbies and interests that we enjoy, but sometimes we cross the line from enjoyment to obsession. Why do we fast forward our present and look to the future? Why is later so much more important than our now? We are so consumed with our idols we don't realize we are worshipping them! We schedule our lives according to them. We don't go to church because we'll miss the kickoff, or we can't miss the last 50 laps - so we miss church. We can't go to our kid's game/ performance because we told our buddies we wouldn't miss 1/2 price drinks/the concert. We skip fellowship because we'd rather spend time with our "other half" and they don't want to go, or miss sleep so we can watch whatever is on the dvr?
We all have our own idols - but the only idol truly worthy of worship is our Lord Jesus Christ. He tells us that the earth shall pass away (the scientists even agree with that one!). Why be consumed with something that won't last??

life is a highway

2009-09-23T11:23:00.000-05:00

1Sam 12:15 Ps 27:1 Prov 4:18-19 John 12:35-36
Imagine it's 2am and the rain clouds have completely drown out the moon and the stars. You have to drive home and forget to turn your lights on. It would be difficult to find your way home whether it was two blocks or two hundred miles. Every bump would stir up fear and would seem a lot larger than it really is. Would you recognize your turn, or would you turn onto a strange road that would lead you in the wrong direction? Halfway home, you see your light switch glowing like a beacon in the night, you switch it and suddenly you can see the bumps in the road and they aren't as menacing, you may not be able to see what's around the next corner, but you can be sure that your path will be lit. With your lights on, you can find your way home, leave them off - and you might find your way to a dead end! Life is a highway and Jesus is your headlights!

Keith Coast

2009-09-16T10:58:00.000-05:00

If you've never seen this man in action - you're missing out!!! Our church hosted its first Family Fest weekend and it was truly awesome! Keith Coast was our featured guest, and amazing just doesn't do him justice. Anyone who can incorporate balloons, laughter, and God has truly accomplished something! Not only did the kiddos have a great time, but the hubby and I did as well. There were many times I was full out belly laughing - and those of you who know me, know that's a far cry from subtle. Off stage he was a gentleman in every sense, trying to give the kids his undivided attention even though he was bombarded with questions from both kids and adults. While his message is delivered wrapped in fun it was still one of obedience, both towards parents and toward God. Keith Coast: five stars, highly recommended!!

searching to see

2009-09-08T20:30:00.000-05:00

Luke 11:9 Heb 11:6 2Chron 7:14 Ps 9:10 Prv 7:15
One of the most asked questions in my house (besides "what's for dinner") is this: "Have you seen my ____?". Fill in the blank with any of the following: keys, backpack, other shoe. Currently I am faced with my own dilemma, I've lost the case for my phone. Sure, I've looked for it, but not really hard. Sometimes it takes extra effort to find whatever it is we're looking for. We must move things around, take extra time, put ourselves into awkward positions, or even ask for help from someone else and then, we are able to find what we're looking for.
Often, we overlook the Lord in our lives because we don't look hard enough. We don't want to move our sins or habits out of our lives; we don't want to take time out of our busy schedule long enough to appreciate what He has done for us; we refuse to step out of our comfort zone or are too prideful to humble ourselves in order to find Him.
Think about the last time you diligently searched for the remote or your keys..... How long did you look for it? If you take that five or ten minutes (at least) everyday and use it to see the Lord and what He's doing in your life (through reading the Bible or prayer) He will reveal Himself to you.

have you ever.....

2009-08-27T23:11:00.000-05:00

Have you ever felt alone in a world full of people?
Have you ever tried to scream through a thick steel wall?
If a tree falls in the forest and there's no one there to see it,
Does it ever really fall after all?

Have you ever felt afraid peering down from a high rise?
Have you ever tried to see through a concrete wall?
If a bird dies in the country and there's nothing left to bury,
Does it ever really die after all?

Have you ever felt sorrow blowing out birthday candles?
Have you ever tried to listen through a sound proof wall?
If a wolf cries in the desert and there's no one there to hear it,
Does it ever really cry after all?

Have you ever felt the heat from a flameless fire?
Have you ever felt protected by an unseen wall?
Even though you may not see Him, and you may not even hear Him,
Doesn't mean He hasn't been here through it all.

if you see

2009-08-26T20:44:00.000-05:00

If you see the tears pouring from my eyes,
Remind me of the One that pours rain from the skies.
If you see a frown drawn on my lips,
Remind me of the sunsets drawn by His fingertips.
If you see my eyes gazing far into an abyss,
Remind me of the One who longs for all of us to be His.
If you see a lonely tear gently fall down my cheek,
Remind me of the One who died to save me.
If you and I happen to pass each other by,
And you notice I happen to cry,
Please know it is not out of doubt, worry or fear,
It's simply because I'm not in control down here.

military

2009-08-06T14:25:00.000-05:00

Ephesians 6:13-20
When I was 7 or 8 my oldest brother joined the military. His first assignment was basic training. They shaved his head and gave him a uniform. They taught him how to follow orders, not question authority, and that when his body thought it couldn't go anymore - surprisingly- it could. Then he began to learn the skills he would need to perform his job with such efficiency that others' lives were affected. My brother was never sent off to fight in any wars, but if his call had come, he would've been prepared.
When we join God's army, is it so different? We should be changed (inside and out) so much that it is noticeable. We should learn to listen to orders and not question God's authority. The Lord teaches us that His strength is never-ending and will never fail, even when we think we can't go on. He gives us that strength!! He has given us the "handbook" we need to learn the skills we need to affect others' lives. Not all of us will be sent to march in infantry, but we should all be prepared to do so.

Ben Stein ROCKS!!!

2009-08-04T09:26:00.000-05:00

The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary.My confession: I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees, Christmas trees.. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are, Christmas trees.It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu . If people want a creche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away. I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period... I have no idea where the concept came from, that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat. Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship celebrities and we aren't allowed to worship God as we understand Him? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there are a lot of us who are wondering where these celebrities came from and where the America we knew went to. In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking. Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her 'How could God let something like this happen?' (regarding Hurricane Katrina).. Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said, 'I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives.. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?' In light of recent events... terrorists attack, school shootings, etc. I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found a few years ago) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill; thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said OK.Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave, because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said okay.Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves..Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with 'WE REAP WHAT WE SOW.' Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire, but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace. Are you laughing yet? Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it. Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us. Pass it on if you think it has merit. If not, then just discard it..... no one will know you did. But, if you discard this thought process, don't sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in. My Best Regards, Honestly and respectfully, Ben Stein

moving and vacation

2009-07-29T09:53:00.001-05:00

We got my brother in law and his fiance moved safely. Only one trailer tire and a couch were lost on the way. No, the couch wasn't really lost. It made the trip but was more like a casualty. But 700 miles and a million stops to retie and check the tarps later, we arrived. Oh, don't forget about Forrest and Jenny and the gang from Wisconsin!!! That was too funny!!! The house is adorable! Her family put a lot into it and it turned out great! We got to enjoy a TN dog roast and spent the evening chatting and eating and playing and catchong fireflies. It was so sweet of her family to welcome us into their home. They are such good people and I know my BIL and soon to be SIL will have plenty of support and love from them! Day three we ventured further north. The normally five hour trip took eight because of the rain. But I got the chance to visit with many that I love. Even though there were some rough spots, I came out more knowlegeable than before! Yay! Anyway, hoagies and a trip to chateau la roche. Rocked! Remembering those I can't hug anymore was painful - but I know I will see them again someday. We stopped in KY to see how baseball bats are made - that was cool! Along with the other exhibits in the museum. It was a good time. Another stop in TN for more visiting and rest. Ate at a yummy little itallian place down the street from their house. MMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!! Then a fun and silly drive home. I am thankful for the surprise vacation and to be back safely!!

moving and vacation

2009-07-29T09:53:00.000-05:00

picky eaters

2009-07-16T11:42:00.000-05:00

When I go out to eat I often change what's on the menu in order for me to get what I want the way I want it. Too often I see commercials promoting "have it your way" or "made the way you like it". While that's good for pickey eaters or just those of us who know what we like; it doesn't work that way with the Lord. He gave us strict rules via Moses and Jesus gave us clear rules when He was here on the earth. Too often I see people picking and choosing what they want to believe when the words are there in black (or red) and white. How often is it written that we should walk in His way, keep His commandments, fear Him, obey Him, and serve Him? How often does He reward those who keep to these rules? Before Jesus is crucified, He tells His disciples to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. He also says to preach the gospel to every creature. Our reward is not only eternal life in heaven (which is more than we deserve), but Jesus says that signs- casting out demons, speaking new tongues, healing the sick with the laying of hands- will follow those who believe. He gives us confirmation that He is one with us! Some people dismiss Mark 16:17-18 even though Jesus said it Himself! Why order a supreme pizza just to pick off the toppings? Are we not His disciples? Why are we afraid to step forth and follow Him completely? I, for one, have experienced enough to know that God is powerful and I strive everyday to ensure that I will not deny Him of that!! "Man shall not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD." So I ask myself as well as you that reads this : Who goes to a buffet and only eats rolls?

changes are good

2009-07-15T10:02:00.000-05:00

Someone once said that we get comfortable and sometimes we need a change to grow. Is that why our living room is blue and our kitchen is brown? No, that's just because I got tired of looking at white walls and it's easier to paint than move! My brother in law is moving though. And I'm excited for him and his fiance. They will be missed terribly, but with today's technology it will be easy to keep in touch! For the past while his fiance has given up time with her family to be with him and I admire her for that! Now he is reciprocating that and it proves his love and dedication for her. I trust that this is where God wants them to be and I wish them the best!!

marriage

2009-07-07T12:04:00.000-05:00

John 3:16,1Cor 7:3, & Deu 6:5A
marriage starts with a proposal. The man is usually the one who humbles himself and asks for a promise of sustaining love. Then there is a ceremony of unity. The man is usually thought of as the provider and the decision maker. Married couples are to love each other unconditionally and forsake all others.
The Bible tells us that marriage between a man and a woman parallels that of the marriage between the Spirit and the bride (church).Is it so different?
The Lord calls us, looking for a promise of love. We are baptized as a sign of obedience and as a witness to the union. God is our provider and He is the one who makes decisions for us. We are to love Him unconditionally and forsake all others.
Why then do we second guess our spouses? Why then are we ashamed to show love and affection? Why is it so hard to be sub missive to your husband? Why do we choose to say "I'm fine."?
Why do we second guess what the Holy Spirit gives us? Why are we ashamed to pray, sing praises, and show love for Jesus? Why is it so hard to follow His rules? Why do we choose to run away when we are convicted of our sins?
The same things that can destroy a marriage can also destroy your salvation!

growing up

2009-07-07T11:58:00.000-05:00

1Cor13:11 & Romans 8:30
Beginning at the point of surrender we trust in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We then start as babies in faith. There comes a point when our Father trusts us with the tools He's given us. It is then our turn to surrender once again and grow as followers of Christ. As babies we cannot stand alone, but as we grow we can stand on the foundation that Jesus has given us and our footsteps become bolder. And even though we are maturing, we must still rely on what our Father has taught us and we must never become prideful because we will never know as much as our Daddy knows. And we must always remember that no matter how "old" we are, we will always need our Father's guidance and protection, and love!!! We may be able to feed ourselves without making a mess - but our Father still provides the meal

availability

2009-07-07T11:52:00.000-05:00

For those scholors out there: how many times does the phrase "Here I am." appear in the Bible as a response to the Lord's call?
I think it's teaching us that we must be available in order to be used. If we are too busy with other things we may not be in a position to be used. And that's only if we're not too busy to hear Him call in the first place. We may be busy in His Kingdom, but too busy for the Kingdom. Is God calling you? Will your answer be "Here I am."?

my call

2009-06-01T08:17:00.000-05:00

A thousand years ago you called me
And waited.
Throughout my teens
My trials, my tribulations.
All the while- I knew
You were there
Waiting patiently;
Until the day you called again.
Would I deny you once more?
Ignore the yearning,
Ignore the pulling,
Ignore You yelling at me,
"I'm here!"With open arms
"I love you!"With tear-filled eyes
"Come to me!",
And you waited...
Waited for me to move.
Waited to see what I would do.
But you knew.
I would stand up,
Come forward,
I would make you wait no more.
You are my Lord!!
Life
Hopes
Dreams
Family
No longer mine but Yours.
I didn't know what to do,
The next step I would take, You took me by the hand,
Gave me your Word
Gave me understanding
Gave me instruction:
"Be patient."
"Be still and listen."
"Be hungry for more."
"Be ready to move."
So now it is my turn to wait.
And I will:
Wait patiently,
For the next move,
To see what you will do.
Lord:
I'm here.
I love you.
Come to me.

ok

2009-05-24T08:34:00.000-05:00

Well I'm still getting used to this thing!! It's supposed to read "God is good!!!". But I'm sure you can figure out the rest... I don't know what I did!!

I'm back!!!

2009-05-24T08:18:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I've finally found my way back to the blog... I'm sure some of you were just waiting anxiously for my return!! Haha! So much has gone on recently but it can be
summed b up as G

+ur oldest is doing great in baseball and I want to thank everyone who has come to upport him!! We're signed up to help with vbs in June and I think that will be tons of funB. Our littlest one had a birthday and our middle one is growing like carzy!!
od is good!!!ebebe summe

all is well

2009-05-10T14:17:00.003-05:00

Sorry to keep my public waiting... but I can't seem to figure out how to post via my phone... not yet. With baseball, church, and all around spending time with family. We've been busy little bees. For those of you close, keep up with us on facebook!!

Coraline

2009-03-26T08:32:00.002-05:00

Ok, so we went to watch Coraline. I know we're kind of slow, but hey, it's still in theaters... and I must say that I was surprised that it was not a Tim Burton movie. It was very dismal, the lighting was very dark and down right creepy. The eccentric characters enhanced the eccentric storyline. On the other hand, it was very imaginative. It held my interest (along with my mom's and three kiddo's) and did teach a lesson - at least I thought it did. One of those, "things could be worse, so enjoy what you've got" kind of things. Would I watch it again? Probably not. Would I buy it for my kids? .... maybe....

girly girl????

2009-03-23T10:09:00.002-05:00

Ok, so most of you know that I am not a girly girl... but due to uncontrollable circumstances, I am forced to learn the ways of the fru-fru. Yesterday, my big sister gave me a lesson. She took me to get a mani-pedi. I was a bit reluctant at first, since I am crazy ticklish on my feet; however, once I sat in the big comfy massage chair, I was quick to ask when we would be coming back. So now, I am currently enjoying my lime (almost flourescent) green nails and even the design on my thumbs that the lady so generously drew on them. I had a great time with my sister. Just talking, laughing, and having some strange vietnamiese woman rub, scrub, and all over girl-ify my feet and hands!!

Is it so uncommon?

2009-03-21T10:31:00.004-05:00

So my hubby and I were out and about last night, and of course we were being our affectionate selves. As I was telling him to stop tickling me, some other patron said "Enjoy it - it won't last". I could've said something in response, but I am really trying to think before I speak. So we kept walking and this lady said something about being jealous. I informed her that the only reason I asked him to stop is because I didn't want to fall down because I was being tickled. I didn't feel obligated to tell her how long we've known each other or how long we have been together and that we had three kiddos at the house. Again, she expressed her jealousy. A bit later, my man and I were discussing the odd encounter we had just had. Is it so uncommon to see pda? Are people wound so tight that the norm is to see miserable, unloving couples - or is marriage taken so lightly these days that it's simpler to change your mind? I realize that it's fun to date somebody, decide you wanna get married, or play house (and I'm sure I've been accused of that- and that's ok) but I wish people realized that our relationship had several obstacles and challenges. Another thing I wish people realized is that we have never had a fight. Sure, we've had a few bumps in the road, but people who truly love one another will talk and work things out. I know I'm still a novice at this marriage thing. But is it so uncommon (or difficult) for people to have a happy, loving marriage?

a song for my man

2009-03-13T13:18:00.002-05:00

I wanted to say the perfect words when we were standing in the sand.
The moonlight on the ocean, and we were holding hands.
It was then that I knew, there was always gonna be a me and you.

I wanted to say the perfect words becoming husband and wife.
In front of friends and family - said I'd love you all my life.
It was then that they knew, there was always gonna be a me and you.

You and I were meant to be, together we can get through anything, you'll see. You and me.

I wanted to say the perfect words, as our time was growing thin.
Thought of all our memories, didn't know where to begin.
Looking back I always knew, there was always gonna be a me and you.

Now there are not perfect words, people crying in a church
Everyone there dressed in black, knowing that it hurts.
But God's promise is true, and there is always gonna be a me and you.

*This is something that I wrote a while ago, but due to recent "events" the page was destroyed and I wanted to write it down before I forgot it. I have the melody in my head, and can play it on guitar. But I suppose I'll have to learn a bit more before I can play chords.*

be still and listen

2009-03-10T10:43:00.002-05:00

The other morning, a preacher was on talking about being used for God. That's been my prayer for a while now. And the message I received was to just be still and listen and when God is ready, He will let me know. So I go out to wake the kiddos up, and turn on qubo. There is an alligator standing up with arms stretched wide and his eyes closed. What was he doing? He was being still and listening. Because, the alligator said, if you're quiet and listen really hard, you'll get the surprise. So.... while there are many ambitions flying around me, I have put them all out there (well, almost all of them) and I suppose now, I'm to just be still and listen.

something to read....

2009-03-02T10:53:00.002-06:00

I really feel led to start a drama team at my church. I've thought about it, prayed about it, talked about it... and it doesn't go away. I've got skits already written down, I just need the "go ahead". I've talked about it to my preacher, and now I'm just waiting on the Lord to talk to him to tell him it's a good idea. I'm not a patient person, and I know that's one of my weaknesses, and the message I've been getting from God is just to be patient. There's a lot of stuff going on in the church. I didn't get to attend the morning service because I was helping in the kidzone, but eight people gave their lives to the Lord. Then, last night, during one of the songs, I felt overwhelmed and had to kneel down at the altar, and all I could think of was, "Help me to serve you better" ... and I got, "wait for me".... so... that's what I'm doing.
*********
Saturday, we took the oldest to start his baseball. He was kind of discouraged because he hasn't been playing as long as some of the others, but his coach has been doing this for a long time and was very supportive and understanding of his situation. I pray that he will have a great season and that he can build some good relationships with the kiddos on his team. We had lunch Sunday with the in-laws (it's a monthly thing we started in order to keep in touch) and we had a good time. Everything was tasty and my pasta salad seemed to be a hit! And of course, all the kids had a great time running around playing with everyone!!

I am thankful...

2009-02-24T08:59:00.002-06:00

for a pastor who is sensitive to the Lord and His will. Sunday morning started as usual. But it all changed after the "meet and greet". You could feel the Lord's presence. I can normally feel it during the music (at least during one song) but this time it was heavy. Bro Todd knew that God was up to something and he decided to have invitation instead of waiting until the end of the service. Two people came forward and accepted Christ as their Savior and one confessed publicly that she had been saved earlier that week. Another came forward and announced that she wanted to rededicate her life to the Lord. It was amazing! It's always amazing to see God at work in others' lives b/c it reminds you that He is always working. Whether you want to see it or not. He is working. The service continued and Bro Todd put a pause to the sermon he had prepared. It's nice to know that he is listening and that he knows that God is in charge - unlike so many churches today who will follow their own plans instead of the Lord's plan. After an exhausting Friday and Saturday: with the dad-in-law in and out of the hospital, attending great-uncle-in-law's funeral, and the fun at my mom's ... then the not so fun at my mom's... it was very uplifting.

the weekend

2009-02-17T13:06:00.003-06:00

Most of you know, my weekend starts usually on Saturdays... Mine started off hanging with my mom and little ones, running around and looking to buy a gift for one of my nephews, along the way we picked up some Valentines for my kiddos. Afterwords, my mom volunteered (ok, I volunteered her) to watch the little ones so my man and I could enjoy a night out. I was surprised with a beautiful bunch of roses - my favorite!! - and some yummy chocolates which I shared with everyone. My sweetheart and I enjoyed a long night out, and ended up getting everyone home and tucked in bed by around two, I think. Sooo.... church came a little early the next day. My man is now the main bass player in the mornings, he missed the message telling him so, so he missed that morning's practice, but he pulled through all right! After rushing around once again, grabbing lunch and whatnot, we managed to get home in time to watch the big race. It was... interesting... and we were afraid that we were going to have to miss the last laps, but the rain came down just in time to leave for the evening services. We watched a slideshow from the trip some of our members took to Haiti. I do believe that since our church is "young" and has only been around for five years, that this is the first of many trips to that country. It was humbling to hear the stories and enjoyable at the same time. We went out for dinner after church and spent some family time together. I am so thankful for my family!! Yesterday, we went to a birthday party. My bro and sis-in-law rented out a bouncy-house inflato-play place and my crew and I were running around like a bunch of crazies.. which we are!! We had a good time. And even though we were all tuckered out, my hubby and I stayed up late watching a documentary on the past 50 years of Daytona 500 history. It was a really good movie. We laughed, I cried, we learned quite a bit that we didn't know. So now I'm left to start my chores... ugh... but it's got to be done... It seems as though this entry was even longer than my weekend... so if you made it through all the way to the end. Good job! :)

if only...

2009-02-13T10:54:00.003-06:00

Today as I watch my little ones nap, my mind begins to wonder. Where would I be if only I had listened? Where would my man be if only he had listened? With all of the advice I've been given over the years, if I had listened to and followed it, I would surely not be who I am and where I am today. And although I love all of the people who wanted only the best for me and gave me their advice, I wouldn't want to trade anything that I have to do it over again. I know that those who love me were trying to save me the pain that I experienced (by not listening to them) and keep me from enduring the trials I've faced (by not listening to them). I now am at a place that I can take the advice and trust in God to let me know which path, and whose words to follow. I am thankful that He has led me here. It is only now that I am learning just how much He gave up by sending His Son as a sacrafice. I would die for my children and husband, and I cannot fathom giving them up, much less allowing them to be tortured and ridiculed for someone who could never take their place. I grow more and more amazed at my Holy Father, and I know that I must do more for Him. My prayer is that he use me. I don't know how, why, or when. Until then, I suppose I will be sitting in the treetops waiting for His word to move.

The History of Valentine's Day

2009-02-12T08:57:00.002-06:00

I have long believed in the legend that Valentine's day was celebrated because of the Christian Saint Valentine who secretly married Roman soldiers because the king had forbid marriage since he thought that single men made better soldiers. Legend also says that while imprisioned (by the Romans for performing the marriages) Valentine fell in love with the guard's daughter and his last note was addressed to her expressing his love and signed "your Valentine". I like that story, It makes you all warm and fuzzy inside. Perhaps that's why it was "made up" to go along with Valentine's day. Unfortunately, I was doing some digging and came across several sites (history.com, stvalentinesday.org, and the ever fruitful wikipedia.com) These sites don't dissolve the legend, but they do state that it cannot be proved or disproved. One thing is for certain, one of the three Saint Valentines was put to death on Feb 14th 279ad. The holiday, like most, seems to be a combination of former holidays. It became a Christian celebration of love instead of a festival to the Roman gods and goddesses. There were many customs during the Roman festivals honoring their dieties of fertility and agriculture as February seemed to mark the beginning of spring. Personally, I prefer flowers and candy over getting smeared with bloody goat skin anyday!!!

Did I forget to mention....

2009-02-06T21:47:00.001-06:00

that I got pulled over YET AGAIN!!!!! This time it was for speeding... I didn't get a ticket though, I think David's right, they just pull me over because I'm cute!!!!

time for a breather...

2009-02-06T13:31:00.002-06:00

This week has been a blast!! My cousin came into town and I was blessed to have the opportunity to spend almost the whole week with her and the rest of my fam! Ok... back up... Last Thursday or Friday, I can't remember, my hubby's Granny called him up and asked if we had any firewood.... unfortunately, when we got word that they weren't going to want any this year, we burned all the stuff that we had been putting aside throughout the year... fortunately, we had some really big trees that were down from where we had cleared the fenceline. They were going to be used as seats for this year's Halloween party, but you know, some things are just more important than others!! :) So Saturday, he spends three hours cutting and splitting the wood... I was only able to split a couple of pieces before the little ones woke up and demanded my full attention. Turns out it was almost a cord (or however you spell it). So that was nice. I'm hoping that it will last them the rest of this season. Sunday, we went to my man's parents' house for lunch. We were way late but had a great time. We missed Sunday's evening service in order to deliver the wood, and with the lightning storm in the distance, I'd say we finished just in time!! Monday.... is a blank..... Tuesday, after dropping the oldest at school, we(me and the little ones) met up with my mom, dad, and cousin for breakfast followed by a tour of "the country". Wednesday was a fun day filled with my sister and cousin shopping... shopping... lunch with my bro and sis-in-law... and more shopping. Then that night, we all (my entire family minus one who had to work) went to our traditional "family's in town" hot spot. It was funny, since there were soooo many of us, they 'locked' us in the party room. It turned out rather well as it acted as a corral for the little ones! Thursday, it was off to find souvineers and lunch with my man, my kiddos, my sister, and of course my cousin. Later that night, after my sis fixed my hair and makeup, my daddy, mom, sis, cousin and myself enjoyed a popcorn-tossing showing at pocket sandwich!!! and that leads us to today... and now I'm contemplating my family's own vacation for this year.

crime tv

2009-01-31T00:11:00.002-06:00

The only crime drama I watch on tv is COPS. I've come to realize that there is too much real life drama that I don't need to watch it on tv. The other night, my sweetie and I were playing around on the computer and after the news, some crime drama came on. The storyline was parallel to that of the Waco tragety that occurred many years back. (David Koresh and all that mess) and it struck me that this is why I have no desire to sit on my butt and watch them turn tragedy into "entertainment". Think about it, all they do is change the names and a few details. Why would anyone want to watch this filth? COPS we watch together. I grew up in the police station and learned all the types of behaviors and how-to-s everyone (in my mind) should know. But I don't have the job that my mom did...although I would love to do that!!... so we watch COPS and hopefully my kiddos are picking up on the wrongs and rights of reality. Not some made up filth that glorifies the horror stories that plague the headlines.
******************************
on a happier note... we got to have dinner w/my bro this evening... we had a great time!! I love my big brother!!
******************************
and I hope my sis isn't having any troubles w/her work tonight!! (I love her too!!)

weekends

2009-01-23T14:13:00.002-06:00

I've gone back and noticed that I've failed to mention the excitement on the weekends. Let's back up first: I really enjoy cooking for a crowd. I had basically cooked Christmas dinner for my fam's Christmas dinner (my hubby cooked the ham) but I was in charge of the turkey and everything else, except for the green bean cassarole my sis-in law brought (which was yummy!!)
And when the in-laws came over for a sunday afternoon lunch (almost all of them) I had cooked fajitas and really had a good time preparing everything and watching them enjoy their meal. Now I must admit that the refried beans and cheesy taco rice? that they brought were a yummy addition to the main course. We spent the day vsiting and eating. We had a really good time. My hubby really enjoyed getting to spend time w/his fam, especially since his hours don't let him attend the bi-monthly saturdays at Granny's.
I also went to my sister's to craft one day. We took old Christmas cards and turned them into placemats. A clever idea, I must admit!! We had a really good time. Even though mine weren't as creative as the others', my sis ensured me that they were acceptable. !! :)
I really enjoy making special time for my family. It means a lot to me and I relish the time that my little ones get to visit with everyone!!!
love to all
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oh yeah, I forgt to mention that I found four little puppies in pepper's whelping box the next morning.. now there are seven!!! they're sooooo cute!!! five of them are marked up like border collies, two will look more like pepper, but with bigger spots on their backs!

hours

2009-01-21T10:14:00.000-06:00

changing his hours back to 40 again... supposed to have a meeting tomorrow with both companies... so I'm sure something will change..

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My Pepper puppy is prego, and about to pop! We've brought her in and made a "whelping box". According to the doggy pregnancy calander, she is due on the 24th. But she's already started nesting. Today, she has baby powder, an envelope and all the socks she could find in her box. If she lets me, I'll clean them out and we'll see what she can muster up tomorrow!!!

frog

2009-01-20T10:48:00.002-06:00

Yes, there was a frog in the living room. My bubby and our middle child went to pick up the oldest from school on a day that it was raining (hard). Me and the little one were sitting on the couch and our of the corner of my eye, I saw something move. I didn't see anything afterwards - so we went back to whatever it was we were doing. Then, I saw something move again. Now, as most of you know, my floors stay crowded with toys; however, this was not the case as we were anticipating company and had recently cleaned. So, I decided to see if I was really imagining things. After a few minutes had passed, and I felt silly for staring at my floor, it moved again. A frog, about 2" tall sitting down, with legs that went on forever. I almost let out a little scream because it startled me. I did not. I did, however, compose myself and pointed it out to the littlest one and we continued to watch this little frog hop around the living room. The poor little thing jumped into the wall a couple of times, and felt bad for laughing at it. Shortly after my knight in shining armor showed up brandishing a fearless hand (easily twice the size of our unsuspecting visitor) and snatched him up. With one threat to let him jump on me... haha... he allowed the kiddos to look and pet it before he stored it in a container as we determined what would be the next step. After a few short minutes, my hero dressed in his rain garb and braved the freezing, pouring rain in order to relocate our guest to our "pond". I suppose it liked it's new digs since we haven't seen him since!

roller coaster..... of love.... roller coaster...

2009-01-08T09:48:00.002-06:00

This week has been like a roller coaster:

First, Noah and David were sick. David was supposed to play Sunday but he couldn't even get out of bed.

Next, they're changing his hours again! Still will be wed through sat, but different hours. I am going to plan to get to Granny's next time. (the 24th). David won't be able to come, but I can still bring the clan.

After that, there was poor choice of words on a "boss"'s part that sent him home... it was all a misunderstanding and everything's ok now

Oh yeah, did I mention the frog in the living room?!?!?!?!?!

hours

2009-01-03T13:00:00.002-06:00

They're changing hours again. Now it will be wed-sat and nine hour days. Only adds up to 36 hours and is the equivilant of a 5% (maybe it's 10) pay cut. The company made cuts all across the board with the higher ups taking the biggest cut and the hourly taking the least. It is expected to last through early June unless business picks up. At least he still has a job! :)

philosophy

2009-01-03T00:32:00.003-06:00

Why is it called a freudian slip? Because Freud believed that your subconscious would occasionally get a word out before your conscious could think about it. I've learned a lot about people from their freudian slips. I try not to judge, or let my feelings get hurt, but it does shed some light on the relationships that you have, or thought you had anyway. In the past, I have bent over backwards to try to please others; however, I've always ended up with nothing more to show than a sore back. So I have reverted to the tried and true golden rule.
Freud said "Being entirely honest with oneself is a good exercise." I think it also holds true for each other. It is only that when we are entirely honest (like it or not) that we truly learn who each other are and with that, flaws and strengths. I believe that when you can truly see someone for who they are and are not afraid to be yourself then there are no reasons to bend over backwards just to give a smile.
On the other hand, I was also told, "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all".
So I suppose I will treat others with the kindness and honesty that I would like reciprocated, and hold my tongue when I can't be nice.

Christmas was...

2008-12-28T15:10:00.001-06:00

Christmas was magical... I hate to see it go. I pray that the magic lasts throughout forever and that we will get to have many many more just like it!

'tis the season

2008-12-20T11:09:00.002-06:00

This past week we got the chance to be involved in something great. Our church put together food baskets -literally laundry baskets full of food- to give to those who might not get the chance to have a nice Christmas dinner otherwise. It included ham, fruit, veggies, rolls, and a bunch of other stuff. This was our first time to be involved, and I cannot wait for the next opportunity. Strangers coming together for someone other than themselves. It was very meaningful and made me realize that even though we might not have as much as others, there are those out there who don't have as much as we do. When it came time to deliver the baskets, there were two in need of delivery that we volunteered to take. I got to help the strong man deliver to the first house, and our oldest helped deliver the second. I must say, I felt like the couple in It's a Wonderful Life when they were handing the keys and bread and wine to the family moving to the new house. The only thing I can recall coming close is buying a gift for the angel tree many moons ago, and giving money into the big red bucket. This time I got a chance to see the recipient, and I am eager to roll up my sleeves in the future. I am blessed. Thank you Jesus!!

hmmmmm......

2008-12-17T13:51:00.003-06:00

looking back
it seems like a flash
so long in the making
so short did it last

Seems as though everything is like that in this life. So long yet fleeting, wanting it to be over, yet yearning for more. "If only I had more time".... "just one more..." these phrases may be the most voiced in the world.

Saturday's performance was a learning experience, Sunday's was something to be proud of... anxious to start another project... anxious to take a breather from the last one...

I will look at each day as a blessing - this play was a bittersweet reminder of just how fragile life is, and I must say that even though I get flustered, I will do better at not taking anything for granted. I know it was just a play, but Sunday, five people stood up and proclaimed their salvation.... pretty cool stuff for a bunch of country folk....

So I encourage each of you to enjoy your discussions with your loved ones, even if you make them crazy and you know that you will never see eye to eye... kiss your spouse as passionately as you did when you were dating, tell your kids you love them more than five times a day (then prove)... call your parents for no reason, and do your best to hold onto the relationships you have with your siblings, no matter what.

God Moved Me

2008-11-30T16:22:00.002-06:00

Today, I got to experience the Lord working with someone else first hand. During this morning's service (during invitation time) Bro Todd was reluctant to dismiss because he felt that someone was being urged to move, but was reluctant to do so. It did seem as if something were in the air... so to speak. So, as he has done in the past. Bro Todd encourages us to ask those around us if they're "all right" with Jesus. J and I were sitting in the back, and you all know what an introvert I am anyway, but I had went up to a man who I had never seen before, and only talked to earlier in the day when we were doing our "greet your neighbor". I went up to him with the assumption that anyone sitting in the front row holding a Bible was "all right" with God. When I saw his bloodshot eyes, I felt compelled to ask if he was all right instead of walking away or just passing him off. Tears started welling up in his eyes and I knew that everything was not "all right". I told him that even though he didn't know me and I didn't know him, that if there were anything I could do to help him establish a relationship with God that now was the time. He motioned that there was another man who had talked to him and that he had already decided to go to the hospitality room (a semi-private room at the back of the sanctuary). The other man was still talking with someone else, and I offered that if he wanted to move now, then now was the time to move. It's the Lord's timetable that matters. Right then, he took off. I was quick to follow and turns out that although he was baptised at a young age, he never understood what it meant to be truly "SAVED" and that he was struggling with some personal issues. After a counselor and I briefly talked with him, we all went to the altar where Bro Todd talked with him some more and we all prayed with him. I could feel the sense of relief that this stranger felt when he received the Lord. I'm thankful that the Lord used me. Most of you know my circle is a small one. And I had been talking with God to express my concern that I cannot do enough for Him because I am so anti-social. But this is just another example that through God all things are possible!

A new perspective

2008-11-08T09:26:00.003-06:00

First of all... can I just say .... WOO HOO!!! I paid $1.88 for gas yesterday!!! fifty bucks put me up to 3/4!!!! HORRAY!!! ... ok, I don't know how many of you watched, but Obama made his first press conference as President-ELECT yesterday. (I missed the last ten minutes of my soap opera, but I suppose I won't miss anything anyway). I must say.... there was a part of it... (I only watched like ten minutes of it) that I was supprisingly impressed with the man. His speech was much less eloquent than those of his campain. He actually seemed nervous. When it came time for the reporters to start asking questions, many of them were quick to jump to "what are you going to do as far as... (for example) the economy, the war, whatever..." his reply, was : There is only one President of the United States, and right now, that's not me.
My jaw dropped. For him to be so self-centered, almost cocky during his pre-election days, and to put it so plainly and straight forward. Giving ol' George the respect he deserves, if only for the title he holds until January, I was - dare I say - impressed. I have said many bad things about Obama, but as a proud citizen of this country, I will have to change my perspective of him and pray that God's will be done. It was said that the president of Iran sent Obama a congratulary (sp?) note ..... I'm sure the Iranian president would feel more comfortable communicating with and maybe heeding warnings of a black man than an old hick from Texas...