tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17510160037340128172024-03-07T00:56:16.985-06:00DeeDee's"I have NO GREATER JOY..."DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.comBlogger303125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-45655699282003082132012-07-10T11:47:00.000-05:002012-07-10T14:56:51.088-05:00Sharing a poem about Pride<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Hello Blog World! </div>
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Been a long time since I have been here. </div>
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Would like to say that I will try to do better. But I have done that several times in the past. So, for today, I have a poem that I want to share with you. </div>
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For many years now, I have used Beth Moore's "Praying God's Word" as a tool during devotions. Not always and not consistently, but today I picked it up again. Just turned to the page marked from the last visit. It was on on the chapter, "Overcoming Pride". And I once again read the poem that she has printed. I didn't just skim it (as often happens in a re-read). I read it again. So, I share it with you today. (if anyone still reads) Maybe someone else needs to read it too. Certainly, I am reminded that pride is a tool that the enemy uses in my life to try to defeat me. </div>
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<strong><em>My name is Pride. I am a cheater.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of your God-given destiny...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because you demand your own way.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of contentment...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because you "deserve better than this."</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of knowledge...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because you already know it all.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of healing...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because you are too full of me to forgive.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of holiness...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because you refuse to admit when you are wrong.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of vision...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because you had rather look out a window than in a mirror.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of genuine friendship...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because nobody is going to know the real you.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of love...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because real romance demands sacrifice.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of greatness in heaven...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because you refuse to wash another's feet on earth.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I cheat you of God's Glory...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>because I convince you to seek your own.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>My name is Pride. I am a cheater.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>You like me because you think I am always looking out for you.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>Untrue.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>I'm looking to make a fool of you.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>God has so much for you, I admit, but don't worry...</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>If you'll stick with me,</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>You will never know.</em></strong></div>
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My name is Pride. I am a cheater....</div>
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Does it speak to you, as it has to me? For the local people... goes along with the sermon series we have been hearing this summer, huh? Pride is not "poor in Spirit"... Pride is not "mourning"... Pride is not "meek"...Pride is not "hungering and thirsting after righteousness"... Pride is not "merciful"... Pride is not "pure in heart"... Pride is not "peacemaking".</div>
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My Bible reading today was from Amos. So, I leave with the Scripture that jumped off the page to me this morning.</div>
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(Amos 5:14) Seek good and not evil, that you may live... </div>
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(Amos 15:15) Hate evil and love good... </div>
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Pride is probably the biggest hinderance from doing so...</div>
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Thoughts to share?: I would love to hear some...</div>
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<a href="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: undefined;"><img border="0" src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" /></a></div>DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-8201616511806946462012-01-21T21:06:00.003-06:002012-01-21T21:10:43.220-06:00Wanting to WriteToday, I went to a Writer's Workshop. <br /><br />My mind is full. I learned at lot. And I hope that I will have the inspiration to once again be consistent here. I want to write - - Blogs, Magazine Articles and Books.<br /><br />Dreaming... <br /><br />and desiring to put feet to the dreams...<br /><br />Hopefully more coming soon!<br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-80085199582593532492011-08-15T20:40:00.003-05:002011-08-15T21:26:14.350-05:00Speak Blessings to themThe granddaughter has started to Kindergarten.
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<br />As I drove her to school this morning, she informed me that I just needed to "drop her off", that I did not need to go in with her. (note- this is her third day and my first day to take her) "Oh, no!" I responded. "Dee, has to go in with you today, so I can see your room." So, she said, "ok".
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<br />Good thing she agreed.... because this "MommaDee" needed to go in. Not for her sake (obviously) but for mine. I needed to hold her hand as we walked across the street. I needed to walk down the hall with her. I needed to see her walk into her room. I needed to stand outside her room for just a minute - pretending to look at the artwork from last week- and pray.
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<br />And in that walk back down the hall and out to the car - my mind was FLOODED with memories. Memories of my first walk down the halls of Main Avenue School. (WOW - WHERE DID THAT COME FROM?) Memories of taking my three children down the hall to their first days of school. And here I am again.
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<br />And to be completely honest, I am not sure that I like it. Mainly because it is such a reminder of just how fast life happens.
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<br />So, once again I am reminded of the scripture, "to number our days. That we may gain a heart of wisdom. "
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<br />But the MAIN reason that I wanted to share this with you all today is to encourage you to <em><strong>Speak Blessings to your little ones</strong></em>. We started the practice with our children on the way to school.
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<br />The particular blessing that we spoke to them most often is taken from the passage in Deuteronomy chapter 28. And now, I am sharing the same with her:
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<br /><blockquote><em>"Aubrey, today I want you to remember that you are the head and not the tail, you are the first and not the last. And whatsoever you put your hands to do, the Lord will bless you. And also know that Dee and Poppa love you and that we are praying for you today."</em> </blockquote></em>
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<br />Then there is a reference point when I see her after her day: <em>"So tell me about how God Blessed you today?"</em> At this point in her little life, she does not always have an answer to that question... but I want to plant within her little mind the awareness of God's blessings on her all day in <em>"whatsoever she is putting her hands to do."</em>
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<br />So, for the parents and the grandparents reading this today... I encourage you to find a blessing (or use mine) and speak it to your children/grandchildren.
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<br />Life is short. Our days are numbered. Take the time to plant some scripture and speak blessings in their little heads so that those words help to mold their little hearts. Hearts tender toward Him and His Word.
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<br />Sweet, Sweet Blessings to you all!
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<br />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-81455920346840727102011-03-10T11:14:00.004-06:002011-03-10T12:03:40.050-06:00The Incomparable Christ (chpt 1)Today the topic (from the book, "The Incomparable Christ" by Oswald Sanders) was "the Moral Perfection of Christ." His beauty, His Loveliness, His Perfection.<br />There is NO ONE like HIM!<br /><br />I have a few thoughts that I would like to share, because when I am having a feast... You know that I am compelled to give you some. I want you to see what I am seeing, to hear what I am hearing. Certainly, I cannot recount it all. But just maybe you will be encouraged by the nuggets. And even maybe some will join in reading the book, and listening to the podcasts.<br /><br /><br />John Flavel (a Puritan pastor in the 1600s) wrote:<br />"Bread has one quality, water another, raiment another, medicine another; but none has them all in itself as Christ does.<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><strong><em>He is bread to the hungry </em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em>water to the thirsty </em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em>a garment to the naked </em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em>healing to the wounded </em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em>and whatever a soul can desire is found in him.</em></strong> "<br /><br /></div><br /><br />Nancy Leigh DeMoss makes this observation:<br /><br /><strong>When we realize the treasure that Christ is, that will cause us to live our lives differently. </strong><br /><br /><strong>We will not spend all of our lives in pursuit of things and people that can never fully satisfy.<br />We will focus our attention and efforts on Christ.<br />We will want to have undistracted devotion to Him.<br />We will want to spend time with Him.<br /></strong><br /><br />That is food to "chew" on for this day. Looking at Christ. The Incomparable Christ. He is altogether Lovely!<br /><br />It is my prayer that TODAY (well, actually everyday) I will reflect and display the beauty of Christ...<br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-48333034720789522972011-03-09T10:10:00.003-06:002011-03-09T10:25:47.667-06:00Ash Wednesday<div align="left">Today is known as Ash Wednesday...<br /><br />There are many posts on Facebook - from people who are denying themselves certain things for this season leading up to Easter. A fast of sorts.<br /><br />I am choosing to join Nancy Leigh DeMoss on a study of the book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Incomparable-Christ-ebook/dp/B003719GOA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1299687611&sr=1-1">"The Incompariable Christ", </a>by Oswald Chambers. (My friend <a href="http://www.triciaschmidblog.blogspot.com/">Tricia </a>was my encouragment to do so... I am following her lead)<br /><br />The Revive Our Hearts Broadcast Schedule of Nancy teaching through this book is posted <a href="http://www.reviveourhearts.com/downloads/TIC_Insert.pdf">here</a>. I have just purchased <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Incomparable-Christ-ebook/dp/B003719GOA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1299687611&sr=1-1">my book from Amazon for my Kindle</a> (by the way - I LOVE my Kindle). Maybe you will want to join us too!<br /></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><blockquote><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Quoted from the coversheet: </span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;">"MAY YOU COME TO KNOW, LOVE, TRUST, FOLLOW</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;">AND REFLECT CHRIST IN A GREATER WAY</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;">DURING THIS HOLY SEASON."</span></div></blockquote></span> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="left">That is what I want...<br /><br /><br /></div><p align="left"><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" /></p><div align="center"></div>DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-32270763182395230022011-03-08T21:11:00.002-06:002011-03-08T22:23:20.451-06:00Leaving a Legacy...Kindred Spirit (as Anne of Green Gables calls it)<br /><br />Hearts that Beat with ours... (as Hal and I call it)<br /><br />Rare gems of this life...(as it truly is)<br /><br />Seriously, there are few people who come into our lives like this. Few. <br /><br />In March of 1989, we moved our family to a new place. It was a hard move for me... but then, all moves are hard for me. As a woman I put down roots... and I had roots that were 7 years old.<br /><br />But God doesn't make mistakes. I spent some time encouraging our children that our lives would be "richer" because of the people that God had waiting for us in our new place of service. As I encouraged them... the words became truth to me. I had to believe what I was trying to teach them. <br /><br />Today, over twenty years later, I am so thankful for the fulfillment of those words that I spoke to my children... and to my heart. <br /><br />Clint and Diana are kindred spirits. Their hearts beat with ours. They are rare gems. Certainly our lives are richer for having known them.<br /><br />This past week, Diana left this old life, and entered into the joy of her salvation. I am still in shock. She had been battling cancer. I did not know. <br /><br />They have 11 children. The first three were born when we met them. I was allowed to be the mid-wife's helper for the fourth (and first son). Diana called me when she had the good news of another "blessing" on the way. I was always so ready to rejoice with her! <br /><br />Just recently (January I think)... one of the older daughters and I connected on FaceBook. But did not ever talk. I looked at pictures. I was glad to have connection again. Then I saw where this daughter was leaving college to go back home. The comment explained that her Mother needed her. I searched the wall /page... to see why. Since I could not find any reason, I assumed that she had given birth to baby # 11. I even said to Hal, "that Diana has had a baby and did not call me!" I was anxiously awaiting for pics to be posted -- and was so glad that I now had the re-connection of Facebook. <br /><br />So, you can imagine the shock when I opened the message sent to me Wednesday morning. <em><strong>"Mom went home to be with Jesus yesterday afternoon. We are looking at having the funeral this friday afternoon at 2:30. "<br /></strong></em><br />I just stared at the computer screen. I told Hal. I wept.<br /><br />Diana encouraged me in my life.... especially those first years of homeschooling. Diana has encouraged me in her death. Her funeral service was a testimony and celebration of the life she lived. <br /><br />But I have to be honest and say that I have struggled. I am still struggling. Hal and I discussed it again today. He asked me this morning why I was having such a hard time. <br /><br />I am still trying to figure that out myself. See, I know where she is. I know that this world was not her home... and that she believed/lived that too. Maybe just the sheer fact that I was expecting the announcement of a birth - and I was faced with the pronouncement of her death. Maybe because I did not get to tell her good-bye. Maybe because I would like to tell her how much she meant to me... And Hal and I decided this morning - that just maybe I was living vicariously through her with all of her babies. My biggest regret for my life is that I had my tubes tied and limited the number of children that I could have. So... I loved her life. I loved her children. I loved the ministry and witness that she lived. <br /><br />But that is not all. As I sat at the funeral service... I was reminded of many things that I know are true:<br />Life (on this earth) is short.<br />Only what is done for Christ Jesus matters.<br />Life is also full of distractions - to keep us from what God has called us to do.<br />The woman that fears the Lord - she shall be praised.<br />Give her the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.<br />Legacy... <br /><br />Yes, I spoke truth to my children. Our lives are richer because of the people that God had waiting on us in our new place of service. And Clint and Diana really are kindred spirits/heart beats/rare gems in our lives. Now, heaven is sweeter... and memories are priceless! <br /><br />Thank you Father for the life and legacy of Diana. Thank you Father for the continued friendship of Clint and their beautiful family.<br /><br /> <br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-84141440427005041612011-02-24T14:29:00.003-06:002011-02-24T15:00:50.546-06:00Reading and Writing Again...I have been reading again.<br /><br />And I am reminded today of the quote, "Readers write, and Writers read." I posted a <a href="http://deedee-warren.blogspot.com/2009/08/readers-writewriters-read.html">blog on that same topic</a> in 2009.<br /><br />When I am reading, I want to share the "nugget" that I have found. I want you to enjoy it too. I want it to speak to you as it has done for me. <br /><br />So you know where I am going with this...<br />I have a quote to share today:<br /><br />"Bad attitudes breed bad attitudes. Grumpy hearts breed more grumpy hearts. Ungratefulness breeds ungratefulness. On the flip side, praising God breeds more reasons to praise God. Thankfulness breeds more thankfulness. And a person who daily practices both praising and thanking has a rare joy that very few people possess." (Lysa Terkeurst, "Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl")<br /><br />A RARE JOY THAT VERY FEW PEOPLE POSSESS. <br /><br />I desire to be filled with that rare joy. The joy that comes from a thankful heart. The joy that comes from praising. <br /><br />And on the flip side, I do not want to have bad attitudes OR a grumpy heart OR ungratefulness. Nor, do I want to be the one who breeds such. <br /><br />It is all about attitude and perspective and truth and holiness and priorities and choices and...<br /><br />Will you join me? Let's agree to truly let "the joy of the Lord be our strength"...<br /><br />A rare joy...<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-4694234403238609772011-02-22T16:40:00.007-06:002011-02-23T10:26:47.896-06:002011 Scripture Memory #3 (and another quote)Can you tell that I have been clearing the desk???<br /><br /><br /><br />Another post-a-note...<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>"The decisions you make today will dictate how you end up in ten years."</strong><br /><br /><strong></strong><br /><br />Once again - I did not write who said it - or where I read it.<br /><br /><br /><br />But once again... I am pausing to get the message that obviously I thought was worthy to write on a note. And for some reason, it is coming up AGAIN for me (or you) now.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />On another note... but there could be a connection I think...<br /><br /><br /><br />When I was trying to decide if I would go ahead and just cut the hair short enough to get the rest of the color off, my son encouraged me to "Just do it!" (sounds like a commercial-huh?) That particular day, that was all that I needed (well, and the fact that my hair stylist did have an opening - which is a miracle in itself). I just needed someone to tell me to go ahead.<br /><br /><br /><br />Maybe that is what is holding us back sometimes in other decisions or dreams. Maybe we just need someone to tell us that we can. And to go ahead. Maybe even to push.<br /><br /><br /><br />I have a few of those things sitting in my ideas and dreams.<br /><br /><br /><br />Maybe that is the reason that these quotes, notes, and thoughts keep coming up.<br /><br /><br /><br />I have heard this called a "God parade". He is so faithful to KEEP bringing up. He is so faithful to not give up. He is so faithful to PUSH. And He even brings others in our lives to do so too!<br /><br /><br /><br />Scripture for me today: (you can feast on it too if you would like)<br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><br /><br /><blockquote><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Isaiah 30:21 ESV</span></div><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">"And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, </span></em></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em>"This is</em><em> the way, walk in it," </em></span></div><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. "</span></em></div></blockquote></div><br /><br /><br />Leaves me with MUCH to think about...<br />What about you?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-53519567891825081122011-02-22T16:09:00.002-06:002011-02-22T16:36:43.600-06:00More thoughts about our time...A quote I found on a post-a-note on my desk. I do not remember who said it - or where I read it. But in light of my last post and last scripture committed to memory... it fits.<br /><br /><div align="center"><strong>"A lot of us put off till tomorrow what we ought to be doing today. </strong></div><div align="center"><strong>And we keep doing that until years turn into decades. </strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Then... a lot does not turn out like we planned."</strong></div><br /><br />Scripture reminds us that our God has plans for us.... <br /><br /><div align="center"><blockquote><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Jeremiah 29:11 ESV</span></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, </span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">plans for welfare and not for evil, </span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">to give you a future and a hope."</span></em></div></blockquote></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="left">So, what does God have planned for me...for you? What does He desire that I (we) be busy doing? </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">A couple of things that I know from Scripture:</div><div align="left">(1) He wants us to trust Him to guide. </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="center"><blockquote><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Psalm 37:4-6 ESV<br /><em>4. Delight yourself in the LORD, </em></span></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">and he will give you the desires of your heart.<br />5. Commit your way to the LORD;</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">trust in him, and he will act.</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">6. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, </span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">and your justice as the noonday.</span></em></div></blockquote></div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">(2) Whatever we do - it is to bring Glory to our Lord:</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="center"><blockquote><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;">1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV<br /><em>So, whether you eat or drink, </em></span></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">or whatever you do, </span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">do all to the glory of God.</span></em></div></blockquote></div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">Thoughts? What are we putting off? What does He want to do in/through our lives? What is keeping us from doing so? Am I settling for good...when He is pushing me for BEST? </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">What thoughts are going through your head/heart right now? </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" /> </div>DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-10336058146956916772011-02-02T14:44:00.003-06:002011-02-02T15:21:01.805-06:002011 Scripture Memory #2Yes, it should be #3 --- I am already behind. But I refuse to let that stop me.<br /><br />So, this seems like the needed verse for me at this time. Not only for memorization but also for meditation:<br /><br /><blockquote><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">Psalms 90:12</span></em><em><br /></em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">"So teach us to number our days, </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom"<br /></span></p></blockquote><br />Schedules<br />Interruptions<br />Options<br />Distractions<br />Personal plans<br />Goals<br /><br />They all come into play when we consider our days. But how easily one day turns into a week. One week becomes a month. A month is suddenly a semester. And the year flies away...<br /><br />I need wisdom. Not earthly wisdom. Wisdom from above. <br /><br />I desire to be so intune with my Heavenly Father, that He truly directs my steps. The steps that become days, weeks, months and years.<br /><br />So, today, once again, I ask my Lord, to teach me to number my days... that I may apply my heart unto wisdom. His wisdom.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-58803370858236458802011-01-04T21:01:00.003-06:002011-01-04T21:21:42.099-06:002011 Scripture Memory #1Ready to start again on Scripture Memory. <br /><br />Beth Moore at Living Proof Ministries is hosting <a href="http://blog.lproof.org/2010/12/siesta-scripture-memory-instructions.html">this challenge for us all again</a>. She even has a <a href="http://www.lproof.org/store/product.asp?itemid=2011SMTspiral">spiral card book</a> that we can order ($3.00 - total cost). I feel a little behind getting started (even though today is only the 4th). But I am ordering my little book and have picked my first scripture.<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><blockquote><div align="center">I Corinthians 10:31</div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><em>"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, </em></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><em>do all to the Glory of God."</em></strong></span></div></blockquote></div><br />This is already a favorite verse of mine, but I choose to start the year with it. I want all that I do to be to the Glory of God. I want to be reminded every day that I review my verses for the entire year. (I also am working on remembering where even favorite verses are located.... the address)<br /><br />So, today, I encourage you to join me. Pick a verse - put it on a card - begin the journey. Share your verse with me.... (order the cute little book if you would like) Hold me accountable. Join the large group with Beth...<br /><br />Let's do this... all to the Glory of God! <br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-60475906408651755912011-01-01T14:53:00.004-06:002011-01-01T15:32:34.453-06:00Happy New Year 2011!I have a couple of thoughts that I want to share on the first day of this new year (1/1/11).<br /><br />I am not one to promote or make resolutions. But I have found that there are benefits to setting goals. I do not have all of mine settled in my mind and heart as of today... but am definitely pondering a few. I plan to share more specifics soon.<br /><br />I know that one will be in my Bible reading. I want to spend MORE time in the Word consistently. I will have a reading plan. I will have a specific study (or several over the course of the year). And I want devote more time to reading good books. <br /><br /><blockquote>"I believe it's absolutely crucial that you and I slow our pace and<br />discipline our time in order to be in the Word of God on a daily basis. <br />Why? Because when we're not in the Word-- reading it through<br />consistently-- we forget who our God is and what He expects and requires. <br />We have a tendency to rationalize our humanity and and forget His<br />holiness." (Kay Arthur)<br /></blockquote><br />Good encouragement for that first goal! <br /><br />Secondly, I plan to continue running. I will sign up for a race or two... because I need the commitment to make me consistent in my training. (<a href="http://michaelhyatt.com/why-you-should-sign-up-for-a-half-marathon.html#">Michael Hiatt's blog gives good reasons</a>)<br /><br />Third, I want to blog consistently again. That will mean discipline in my time (away from FB) and discipline in writing. <br /><br />Just a few quick thoughts for today....<br /><br />What about you? Do you set goals for yourself? Sometimes that is the push/shove/encouragement that we need to just get started. Share them with someone. Put it out there. And then -- let's get started....<br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-82756632615453792782010-12-31T00:01:00.002-06:002011-02-23T10:34:04.856-06:00Scriptures for 2011<a href="http://deedee-warren.blogspot.com/2011/01/2011-scripture-memory-1.html">#1 January 1, 2011 (1/1/11)</a><br /><br /><a href="http://deedee-warren.blogspot.com/2011/02/2011-scripture-memory-2.html"># 2 February 2, 2011 </a><br /><br /><a href="http://deedee-warren.blogspot.com/2011/02/and-another-quote.html"># 3 February 22, 2011<br /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-16704577095394146502010-12-25T08:00:00.000-06:002010-12-25T08:00:00.481-06:00Merry Christmas 2010...Merry Christmas to you all! <br /><br />For the first time since 2006... Everyone is here. No one is a war this year. No one is away in another state. Nope, this year we are all together. <br /><br />I want to savor it all. I AM taking lots of pictures. I don't care if they get tired of it... It is a need! <br /><br />I have several Nativity Scenes... and this year, Aubrey helped me place them. And she has had a good time playing with them. I only have one that is "untouchable" -and I chose to leave it put away this Christmas. <br /><br />I want little hands to touch. To move. To play. To know the story of Jesus. To place baby Jesus in the Manger. To talk about the Shepherds and the sheep and the star. To march the Wisemen to the scene. And I want to watch. (on a side note, she has also decided to hide some of them around the house - I keep finding baby Jesus in lots of places) Sweet memories in the making! <br /><br />Yes, Jesus is the reason for this wonderful season!<br /><br />and this year... we are ALL home! Oh yes, I am smiling! Oh yes, I am! <br /><br />Merry Christmas to you all!<br /> <br /><br /><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/pn10FF-FQfs?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/pn10FF-FQfs?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-45475925712983544032010-12-02T18:37:00.002-06:002010-12-02T18:42:29.995-06:00Jesus is the Reason...As we start the Christmas season...<br /><br />I pray that you will join me in taking time in all of the hustle and bustle and ponder the BIRTH OF OUR SAVIOR! Seriously ponder.<br /><br />Listen to this and enjoy!<br /><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/w7aXnG6mHos?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/w7aXnG6mHos?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-76079647429516990222010-11-03T21:28:00.005-05:002010-11-03T22:16:59.238-05:00Do You Set Goals for Yourself?This summer I set two. A physical challenge and a spiritual challenge.<br /><br />Both required discipline.<br /><br />I decided to challenge myself to read the New Testament in 90 days. I had heard of a program called "B90X". Extreme Bible reading. There are some who have taken that challenge and actually read the entire Bible in 90 days. I decided to start with the New Testament. Hal and I have read the entire Bible each year for several years now. But this would be a new challenge. I printed my plan to keep in my Bible and began August 1st.<br /><br />The second challenge for me was a physical challenge. For some crazy reason, I decided to train to run with the goal being a 5k run in our city on Oct 30. I used the "Couch-to-5K" program. This too began on August 1st.<br /><br />Since I have read my Bible consistently for years, the challenge was just to read MORE each day. And to be consistent.<br /><br />But the running was a different story. This was new. I mean VERY new. As in, I have NEVER run. I had thought about it some. And this past year, when some friends at church began running, I thought about it some more. But I had been able to talk myself out of the idea. I had convinced myself that since I was 52 years old, that I did not even need to start. But while reading a blog one day, the writer was talking about the benefits of running- and that he had started running at the age of 52. hummmmm.<br /><br />Maybe I could.<br /><br />I heard a speaker recently call that a God parade. When He starts moving in our lives - and we have that parade of things that lead us in the direction that He wants us to go. My last excuse was my age... until I read the blog of someone who began running at my age.<br /><br />The first week was "do-able". The second week was ok - but the first time that I had to run 3 minutes, I thought I would die. But I kept training. At least 3 times a week, I ran. Doing exactly what the program told me to do.<br /><br />I iced my 52 year old knees when I would get home. I bought some better shoes. I did exercises to strengthen the knees and to stretch the legs. I read articles about how to run.<br /><br />And on October 30th, I ran the 5k. I am slow, but my goal was to run the entire race. And I did.<br />And the crazy thing is, I even won in my age division.<br /><br />Sometimes it pays to be old.<br /><br />It always pays to train for the race set before us.<br /><br />This week, I had someone ask me which goal was harder. I had to think. The run was a real challenge. But the warfare that happens to keep us out of the Word was extreme. Regardless, I finished BOTH.<br /><br />Today, I am thinking about what new goals I need/want to set. For I know this... if I had not set the goals, I would not have accomplished either.<br /><br />Do you set goals for your life?<br />Would you share?<br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-68506371198832632802010-07-19T00:01:00.002-05:002010-07-19T00:01:00.937-05:00Quote from Susanna Wesley...Back in Feburary of this year I posted a blog about all of my books and <a href="http://deedee-warren.blogspot.com/2010/02/book-holic.html">being a book-a-holic</a>. In the course of the year and all that life brings, I have not completed any of them yet. I have however, started many. That is just how it happens some times.<br /><br />I am back reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/0310269520/ref=dp_image_text_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books">"The Grand Weaver"</a> by Ravi Zacharias again. And have put all others down until I finish this one. My goal is to have it read completely by the time I go back home to Alabama. (In my free time while here in VA visiting with my Julia, Ronnie and baby Josiah!)<br /><br />I have a quote that I want to share...<br />John Wesley had asked his mother, Susanna Wesley, to define sin. Here is her answer:<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><blockquote><div align="center"><blockquote><blockquote><div align="center">"Son, whatever weakens your reasoning, </div><div align="center">impairs the tenderness of your conscience,</div><div align="center">obscures your sense of God,</div><div align="center">or takes away your relish for spiritual things;</div><div align="center">in short, if anything increases the authority and </div><div align="center">power of the flesh over the Spirit, </div><div align="center">then that to you becomes sin, </div><div align="center">however good it is in itself,"</div></blockquote></blockquote></div></blockquote></div><br />I agree with Ravi Zacharias- I doubt any theologians could have done better than she did!<br /><br />Certainly we all would do well to use this as a guide to search our lives and our decisions and our choices.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-71152003888397430882010-07-18T06:32:00.006-05:002010-07-18T07:15:38.800-05:00The World of "Mother"As a mom, it is hard to explain the emotion of knowing that YOUR baby girl is in labor and about to give birth. You want to do something... and there is absolutely nothing you can do. Nope, she has to walk this road... on her own.<br /><br />When we arrived in VA - we were able to go back to the room and visit for just a minute. Our first born baby girl was in labor. Her hands were shaking from the meds - and I could hardly contain the emotion. But I did. As I said, I just wanted to do SOMETHING. So, I prayed. And went back to the waiting room. And continued to pray. And went to sleep curled up on a small chair. And prayed. And waited.<br /><br />She did so well - of course! You can read her story <a href="http://adventuresofjulia.blogspot.com/2010/07/j-has-arrived.html">here.</a><br /><br />It is the beginning of motherhood. The beginning of being able and willing to give your life for your child. The beginning of sacrifice. The beginning of a love that is incomprehensible and unexplainable and unending.<br /><br />And for the Mom of the new Mom - it is certainly another "No Greater Joy" moment..<br /><br />Welcome, my Julia, to the world of "Mother".<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495217395361468466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 133px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfacOoJV8vETZUXLVCdgEAyIK3805ASzJ-I8ZwuDQjS0YLy5dNay6cFsgj94NryWWHAFTpcjNfWXDVoHo_8wmdxDv00Nv0ZWQs2B0eRaKOGvYmKqgyurUf6FlLuCYXA_FiV0FGsxW22WU/s400/DSC_0092.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" /><br /><br />(P.S. - there will be pics of our Baby Josiah coming soon!)DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-48843876122428304342010-07-16T07:19:00.005-05:002010-07-16T10:03:37.468-05:00The Other Team's Fight Song...Do you ever find yourself singing the other team's fight song?<br /><br />I grew up in a city where there were two High Schools - one was a city school and one was a county school. They were actually close in location. There were only a couple of city blocks and a set of train tracks that separated them. As rivals - they were definitely on different sides of the track.<br /><br />Then in my home state - there are two <strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">big</span></em></strong> College Football rivals. And the lines are clearly drawn. You are for one team or the other. The colors are defined. Crimson and White are completely different from Orange and Blue. I know this is true in other states as well. The point is that in the game of football - we clearly choose our sides. (well, those of us who like football do).<br /><br /><em>For those reading who are not sports fans of any type - work with me here - I am trying to make a point! I am sure you understand what I am saying.</em><br /><br />So, I return to my post title... and ask this question: "Do you ever sing the other team's fight song?" Do you ever cheer for the other side? Do you ever wear their colors?<br /><br />For those avid fans - I know the answer. It is a resounding NO! NEVER!<br /><br />Yet, as Christians, we often do.<br /><br />Light is totally different from darkness.<br /><br />But it is so easy to say that our particular issue (sin - hobby - lust , etc. ) is ok. It is so easy to compromise and straddle the fence when my own pleasure is involved.<br /><br />Now, I could make a list of compromises. But the truth is I don't have to. Because as Christians, the Holy Spirit of our Living God indwells us and He will convict of sin. He will fill in my blank________ . He will fill in your blank________.<br /><br />Let me share a few scriptures for us to meditate on:<br /><br /><blockquote><p>I Peter 1: 14-15<br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you<br />lived in ignorance, but just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you<br />do; for it is written: "Be holy because I am holy."</span></em></p><p></p></blockquote><br /><br /><blockquote>Ephesian 5:8-13<br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live<br />as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness,<br />righteousness and truth) and find our what pleases the Lord. Have<br />nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose<br />them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in<br />secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is<br />light that makes everything visible..."<br /></span></em></blockquote><br /><br /><blockquote>Luke 11:23<br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">"Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me<br />scatters."</span></em><br /><br />and look at this same passage from the Message Version:<br /><br />Luke 11:23<br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">"This is war, and there is no neutral ground. If you're not on my side,<br />you're the enemy; if you're not helping, you're making things worse. "</span></em><br /></blockquote><br /><br /><br />"nuff said. That last passage says it pretty strong.... "there is NO neutral ground"<br /><br />So, the question remains... Do we ever sing the other team's fight song? What is our life humming?<br /><br />Any thoughts?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-67906871048412450612010-06-23T22:10:00.004-05:002010-06-23T22:39:33.693-05:00Coming Soon...In the next few days or maybe a week or so...<br /><br />... I should be getting a call from my Julia that grandbaby #3 is on the way. We will jump in the car and hurry to VA to greet our little Josiah Daniel Mayhew. I have already resolved myself to the probability that I will not be there when he arrives in this world. But I will be there soon. And I will be staying for a while.<br /><br />What I have not settled in this heart of mine is how in this world I will be able to leave after a couple of weeks. I keep trying to prepare myself... but I don't think it is working.<br /><br />I have been so spoiled by the first two grandbabies. They only live across town. And it takes me about 5 minutes to get to them. Or to their mom. When she calls, whether it is day or middle of the night - I can go. And I do. <br /><br />Regardless, I am so excited. For Ronnie and Julia - as their world is about to be "rocked" by the arrival of their precious baby boy. I am excited for Ronnie's parents (Roger and Connie) - as this is their first grandbaby. They will join those of us who have already found out that grandbabies are as grand as we have always been told. I am excited for me and Hal - again! And then there is the excitement for the rest of the famly... we are a close knit bunch! <br /><br />Life has been so busy - that the blog posts have been few lately. And I really keep thinking that I will soon be back on track - But you can know for certain that you will hear from this MommaDee when the little one joins our world! <br /><br />The miracle of birth...<br />Coming again soon...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-50766302550159845002010-05-16T17:03:00.007-05:002010-05-16T21:00:16.875-05:00Not as I Planned...A beach get-away...<br /><br />It is a little bit of heaven to this gal.<br /><br />Well, usually.<br /><br />However, this year, my trip made a WRONG turn.<br /><br />I thought I would not bore you all with all the details. But I do not know any other way to tell this story.<br /><br /><br />Day One:<br />Wonderful trip down to Destin. Laughter does good like medicine.<br /><br />Lunch before we unload and go to the beach. - We think this was where the food poison decided to vacation with me.... and my overall excitement began it's journey down...<br /><br />Supper - to be honest I do not even remember where we went or what I ordered. I was just ready to get back to the room and go to bed. This is when the AWFUL AWFUL AWFUL headache decided to join me. I thought I was having an aneurysm. Seriously. Not.Much.Sleep.<br /><br /><br /><br />Day Two:<br />Started the day by going to get some supplements to help with my YUK. Surely this would help. Spent a little time with my toes in the sand - and decided to go to the room to get a nap / and I just knew I would feel better when I woke up. WRONG. I spent most of the afternoon in the bed. For those of you who know me - that tells you how sick I was. DeeDee is at the beach and I am in the room in the bed and not on the beach. I still can not believe it.<br /><br /><br /><br />Regardless, I got dressed to go to supper. And then I FELL in the kitchen. One minute I am on my way to the refridgerator to get some more tea. The next minute I am on the floor. I have slipped and fallen on my knee. I was able to get up ... I was ok. I was ok. I could walk. I could.<br /><br /><br /><br />I still felt YUK. But it had to get better soon.<br /><br />Have I mentioned yet how much I also LOVE seafood?<br /><br />So, as I sat at the table and ordered my food, I began to wonder where I would run if I did not think I could make it to the restroom. After about two bites of my SHRIMP, I excused myself. QUICKLY. Very Quickly. I did make it to the bathroom. There were three stalls. THANKFULLY. But it is hard to hide the reality that you are throwing-up everything that you have eaten for two days.<br /><br /><br /><br />As soon as I could... I washed my hands, I splashed my face, I wet some paper towels to hold on my head and I HURRIED to the car. I did get some funny looks as I passed by. Oh well....<br /><br /><br /><br />Back at the room, I went to bed. Not to the balcony to listen to the waves roll in. Not on the couch with a throw covering me as we watched a "chick-flick". NOPE, DeeDee went to bed.<br /><br /><br /><br />Now, the knee starts hurting. BAD. I got up to go to the bathroom. I dug through my clothes and found some soft cotton pajama pants that I could roll up and wrap around my knee and give it some support. I was being quiet so I would not interupt the girls watching a movie. Then I realized that I was about to pass out. I broke out in a sweat...and the eyes were losing sight.<br /><br /><br /><br />Think quick.<br /><br /><br /><br />What do you do?<br /><br /><br /><br />If I lay down and pass out - they will not know. <em><strong>That would not be good.</strong></em><br /><br /><br /><br />If I go to the door and tell them that I am not feeling so well.... I will certainly pass out and fall. <strong><em>That would not be good.</em></strong><br /><br /><br /><br />So.... I took a couple of quick steps and BANGED on the door - and dove for the bed.<br /><br /><br /><br />Of course they came running. I scared them to death. <em>Whatever - I scared me to death.</em><br /><br /><br /><br />"Get me something to drink. Quick!" Orange juice. Something to get my sugar levels up. NOW.<br /><br />I think I was dehydrated. <em>Does it sound like I am having a vacation yet?</em><br /><br /><br /><br />They offered to take me home. I WANTED TO BE AT HOME. But seriously, I do not think I could have made the ride. And I really kept thinking that I just had to feel better for the last day. I had to...<br /><br /><br /><br />Day three:<br /><br />I think I am going to live. I do feel some better. I ate some almond butter on a cracker. YUM. That stayed down. Then they asked what I thought I could eat. An egg/cheese omelet and a Starbucks Vanilla Latte. Yep, that was it. And finally something tasted good. But the knee was still not co-operating.<br /><br /><br /><br />So, my girls went downstairs and got a wheel-chair for this crippled momma. Wheeled me to the beach. Helped me walk to the beach chair. And catered to my every whim. Yep. Vacation had arrived. I was finally soaking up some SunShine. And my toes were in the sand.<br /><br /><br /><br />I did get some good seafood. I did get to go to the outlet mall. But I will never again say that I think it would be fun to be pushed around in a wheel-chair. Nope. It is only fun when you don't need it.<br /><br />So, I come away with a few thoughts. <br />(1) Friends are a treasure.<br />(2) Laughter really does good like medicine.<br />(3) When the body functions as it was designed, it will not receive food poison and keep it. (whether you like it or not)<br />(4) Our physical bodies are subject to change in a moment. (the time it takes to go from standing in an upright position to the floor!)<br />(5) Having a Dr. J who lets me call her on her cell phone is a blessing.<br />(6) Sitting on the beach is still therapy for what ever ails you. (if you can get to get to the beach)<br />(7) Riding in a wheel chair is not as much fun as it looks like. <br />(8) There is no place like home.<br /><br />I am thankful for the opportunity to go to the beach - but this year it was not as I had planned.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-69019888886153875712010-04-28T14:53:00.004-05:002010-04-28T16:07:44.319-05:00The Written Word is truly the LIVING Word of God...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCvMD-eXNSYfnJOFkyi4KgIeqkOrU7-z38TvFLQGqcmjjdyx4-CTXdZ5UwE4nbWC0STlH6gYk3aMPMyTjHImIL7GgYewDIclKu-t9Oqb0ewePW0fNi31otF4B1hQDMIqMJsl8HkLti2U/s1600/SPC+Jonathan+Warren.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465296391099181202" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCvMD-eXNSYfnJOFkyi4KgIeqkOrU7-z38TvFLQGqcmjjdyx4-CTXdZ5UwE4nbWC0STlH6gYk3aMPMyTjHImIL7GgYewDIclKu-t9Oqb0ewePW0fNi31otF4B1hQDMIqMJsl8HkLti2U/s400/SPC+Jonathan+Warren.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>We have just received word from our <a href="http://knucklehead47.blogspot.com/">Soldier Son</a> that he will soon be boarding his plane for the first leg of his journey home. This is the end of his second deployment. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>In 2007, the day that he was actually leaving the USA to begin his first deployment, I posted a blog about my personal devotion. We had open house in our new church and my emotions were fragile to say the least. During my time in the Word that morning before I began my day, God so clearly spoke to my heart, and I scribbled my promise on a piece of paper. I literally held on to it all day. You can read the entire post <a href="http://deedee-warren.blogspot.com/2007/09/time-for-update.html">here.</a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>As I sat today, opened my Bible and my "read-through" plan for this year, I was taken to Psalms 73. It is a different Bible than I was reading in 2007 and an entirely different reading plan. But the passage once again JUMPED off the page - straight to my heart. Verse 26: "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever" </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I just stared for a few minutes. How amazing - the very verse given to me for strength and encouragement as he began his first deployment - was the exact same verse given once again today - as He is at the END of his second deployment. I did not orchestrate this. I did not go to this passage just to read it again. Like I said, it was a different Bible AND a different reading plan. To be perfectly honest, I did not even remember that this was where my original promise was found. </div><div> </div><div>It was if God was so clearly speaking to me and reminding me that He is true to His Word. He gave me a promise to hold on to and the promise is still true. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The Living Word...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Given so freely - to speak so clearly - when we simply take the time to hear.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>He IS the strength of my heart. He IS my portion forever. I choose to HOLD ON...even when my flesh and my heart may fail.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>My heart is full. My emotions are once again fragile. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>But today it is from an entirely different perspective.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" /> </div>DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-1495307944321319062010-04-15T22:53:00.002-05:002010-04-15T23:33:29.606-05:00Cousins...I saw many cousins today.<br /><br />First cousins - with whom I have a storehouse of precious memories.<br /><br />Second cousins - who really are more like nieces and nephews to me.<br /><br />Third cousins - who I really do not know - but see such resemblence to the first or second cousins - that I feel like I know them.<br /><br />Regardless, I think we need to take the time to get together more often. Certainly for better circumstances. <br /><br />Even though it was a sad day... the service for our little Abigail was sweet. From the songs on the piano at the beginning - to the song picked out and sung - to the beautiful message of hope - and finally the song, "Jesus Loves Me" at the end (all from cousins I might add) , it was a beautiful service - celebrating the little life! <br /><br />Please continue to pray for the family. We are holding on to the truth that God's Grace is truly sufficient!<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-19642342811313175672010-04-14T09:52:00.005-05:002010-04-14T10:23:34.037-05:00In His Arms...<div>From today's reading in the Word - a very familiar passage - and yet with a vivid picture to me today for Brandy and Micheal... and for sweet little Abigail.<br /><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><em><br /><blockquote><br /><div align="center"><em>"Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them for to such </em><br /></div><div align="center"><em>belongs the kingdom of God." </em><br /></div><div align="center"><em>Luke 18:16</em></div></blockquote></em></div><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div>The picture that first comes to mind is when our Savior was walking on this earth - and on this particular day - He stops and takes time to let the little children crawl into his lap. He RECEIVES them. He loves them. He has time for them.</div><div><br /></div><div>But then I had the picture of my Savior receiving this precious 2-year-old into His arms. Literally. </div></div><div> </div><div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCjQoIYs7BYxIt_e4W93f9XFxNgWQgvebkMozBCVGdK4BVR0adoUwInlqGb51TLP6PP4UNiDsImV1xWRgdat1UPjd8moziltTel8A9sgRMENvwoSAreo056a3f5xFJmpJHFhGEu7EkOw/s1600/26065_558384226789_41805320_33150547_6594552_s.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460013549035690018" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 87px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 130px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCjQoIYs7BYxIt_e4W93f9XFxNgWQgvebkMozBCVGdK4BVR0adoUwInlqGb51TLP6PP4UNiDsImV1xWRgdat1UPjd8moziltTel8A9sgRMENvwoSAreo056a3f5xFJmpJHFhGEu7EkOw/s400/26065_558384226789_41805320_33150547_6594552_s.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em>While the hosts cry Hosanna,</em></strong><br /></div><div><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em>from heaven descending,</em></strong><br /></div><div><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em>With glorifed saints and the angels attending,</em></strong><br /></div><div><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em>With Grace on His brow, </em></strong><br /></div><div><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em> like a halo of Glory,</em></strong><br /></div><div><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em> Will Jesus receive His own.</em></strong><br /></div><div><br /></div><div align="center"><em><strong></strong><span style="font-size:85%;"> (Horatius Bonar)</span></em></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" /> </div></div>DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1751016003734012817.post-11834695026897200982010-04-12T22:09:00.003-05:002010-04-12T22:28:18.393-05:00When Life is Hard...It certainly would be an understatement to say that the last few months have been hard. Mostly for our precious church family. Who, by the way, ARE family to us. We have been at CBC for 15 years. Yes, they are truly family. And when they hurt - we hurt. <br /><br />That is what families do... <br /><br />We are there to share in the joy and it is certainly DOUBLED. Then we are there in the sorrow. To help share in the heavy load.<br /><br />Burden bearers...<br /><br />But this week... it is LITERALLY my family. Extended family - yet family. Lives get busy and sometimes distant in daily relationship. Oh but the bonds of love are strong. <br /><br />Like we have told SO MANY lately as we have stood with them at their time of loss - we do not grieve for the one who has gone on to be with our LORD. No, they are in the arms of our Savior. Oh, but the grief of the ones left here. Life on this earth will never be the same. <br /><br />My heart aches. for the precious mom and dad... for the 4 siblings...<br />for the grandparents...<br />and then for all of the others... close and extended.<br /><br />Praying for comfort - comfort that ONLY our Savior can give.<br /><br />I say again... my heart aches. <em>For</em> and <em>with</em> them... <br /><br /><img src="http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r278/splitdecisionz/simple%20and%20elegant/sig.png" />DeeDeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11269559132137311315noreply@blogger.com1