DeeDee's

Wanting to Write

2012-01-21T21:06:00.003-06:00

Today, I went to a Writer's Workshop.

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.

Dreaming...

and desiring to put feet to the dreams...

Hopefully more coming soon!

Speak Blessings to them

2011-08-15T20:40:00.003-05:00

The granddaughter has started to Kindergarten.

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".

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.

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.

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.

So, once again I am reminded of the scripture, "to number our days. That we may gain a heart of wisdom. "

But the MAIN reason that I wanted to share this with you all today is to encourage you to Speak Blessings to your little ones. We started the practice with our children on the way to school.

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:

"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."

Then there is a reference point when I see her after her day: "So tell me about how God Blessed you today?" 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 "whatsoever she is putting her hands to do."

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.

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.

Sweet, Sweet Blessings to you all!

The Incomparable Christ (chpt 1)

2011-03-10T11:14:00.004-06:00

Today the topic (from the book, "The Incomparable Christ" by Oswald Sanders) was "the Moral Perfection of Christ." His beauty, His Loveliness, His Perfection.
There is NO ONE like HIM!

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.

John Flavel (a Puritan pastor in the 1600s) wrote:
"Bread has one quality, water another, raiment another, medicine another; but none has them all in itself as Christ does.

He is bread to the hungry

water to the thirsty

a garment to the naked

healing to the wounded

and whatever a soul can desire is found in him. "

Nancy Leigh DeMoss makes this observation:

When we realize the treasure that Christ is, that will cause us to live our lives differently.

We will not spend all of our lives in pursuit of things and people that can never fully satisfy.
We will focus our attention and efforts on Christ.
We will want to have undistracted devotion to Him.
We will want to spend time with Him.

That is food to "chew" on for this day. Looking at Christ. The Incomparable Christ. He is altogether Lovely!

It is my prayer that TODAY (well, actually everyday) I will reflect and display the beauty of Christ...

Ash Wednesday

2011-03-09T10:10:00.003-06:00

Today is known as Ash Wednesday...

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.

I am choosing to join Nancy Leigh DeMoss on a study of the book, "The Incompariable Christ", by Oswald Chambers. (My friend Tricia was my encouragment to do so... I am following her lead)

The Revive Our Hearts Broadcast Schedule of Nancy teaching through this book is posted here. I have just purchased my book from Amazon for my Kindle (by the way - I LOVE my Kindle). Maybe you will want to join us too!

Quoted from the coversheet:
"MAY YOU COME TO KNOW, LOVE, TRUST, FOLLOW
AND REFLECT CHRIST IN A GREATER WAY
DURING THIS HOLY SEASON."

That is what I want...

Leaving a Legacy...

2011-03-08T21:11:00.002-06:00

Kindred Spirit (as Anne of Green Gables calls it)

Hearts that Beat with ours... (as Hal and I call it)

Rare gems of this life...(as it truly is)

Seriously, there are few people who come into our lives like this. Few.

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.

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.

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.

Clint and Diana are kindred spirits. Their hearts beat with ours. They are rare gems. Certainly our lives are richer for having known them.

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.

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!

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.

So, you can imagine the shock when I opened the message sent to me Wednesday morning. "Mom went home to be with Jesus yesterday afternoon. We are looking at having the funeral this friday afternoon at 2:30. "

I just stared at the computer screen. I told Hal. I wept.

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.

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.

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.

But that is not all. As I sat at the funeral service... I was reminded of many things that I know are true:
Life (on this earth) is short.
Only what is done for Christ Jesus matters.
Life is also full of distractions - to keep us from what God has called us to do.
The woman that fears the Lord - she shall be praised.
Give her the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.
Legacy...

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!

Thank you Father for the life and legacy of Diana. Thank you Father for the continued friendship of Clint and their beautiful family.

Reading and Writing Again...

2011-02-24T14:29:00.003-06:00

I have been reading again.

And I am reminded today of the quote, "Readers write, and Writers read." I posted a blog on that same topic in 2009.

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.

So you know where I am going with this...
I have a quote to share today:

"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")

A RARE JOY THAT VERY FEW PEOPLE POSSESS.

I desire to be filled with that rare joy. The joy that comes from a thankful heart. The joy that comes from praising.

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.

It is all about attitude and perspective and truth and holiness and priorities and choices and...

Will you join me? Let's agree to truly let "the joy of the Lord be our strength"...

A rare joy...

2011 Scripture Memory #3 (and another quote)

2011-02-22T16:40:00.007-06:00

Can you tell that I have been clearing the desk???

Another post-a-note...

"The decisions you make today will dictate how you end up in ten years."

Once again - I did not write who said it - or where I read it.

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.

On another note... but there could be a connection I think...

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.

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.

I have a few of those things sitting in my ideas and dreams.

Maybe that is the reason that these quotes, notes, and thoughts keep coming up.

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!

Scripture for me today: (you can feast on it too if you would like)

Isaiah 30:21 ESV

"And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying,

"This is the way, walk in it,"

when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. "

Leaves me with MUCH to think about...
What about you?

More thoughts about our time...

2011-02-22T16:09:00.002-06:00

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.

"A lot of us put off till tomorrow what we ought to be doing today.

And we keep doing that until years turn into decades.

Then... a lot does not turn out like we planned."

Scripture reminds us that our God has plans for us....

Jeremiah 29:11 ESV
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD,
plans for welfare and not for evil,
to give you a future and a hope."

So, what does God have planned for me...for you? What does He desire that I (we) be busy doing?

A couple of things that I know from Scripture:

(1) He wants us to trust Him to guide.

Psalm 37:4-6 ESV
4. Delight yourself in the LORD,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
5. Commit your way to the LORD;
trust in him, and he will act.
6. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light,
and your justice as the noonday.

(2) Whatever we do - it is to bring Glory to our Lord:

1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV
So, whether you eat or drink,
or whatever you do,
do all to the glory of God.

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?

What thoughts are going through your head/heart right now?

2011 Scripture Memory #2

2011-02-02T14:44:00.003-06:00

Yes, it should be #3 --- I am already behind. But I refuse to let that stop me.

So, this seems like the needed verse for me at this time. Not only for memorization but also for meditation:

Psalms 90:12
"So teach us to number our days,
that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom"

Schedules
Interruptions
Options
Distractions
Personal plans
Goals

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...

I need wisdom. Not earthly wisdom. Wisdom from above.

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.

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.

2011 Scripture Memory #1

2011-01-04T21:01:00.003-06:00

Ready to start again on Scripture Memory.

Beth Moore at Living Proof Ministries is hosting this challenge for us all again. She even has a spiral card book 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.

I Corinthians 10:31
"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do,
do all to the Glory of God."

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)

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...

Let's do this... all to the Glory of God!

Happy New Year 2011!

2011-01-01T14:53:00.004-06:00

I have a couple of thoughts that I want to share on the first day of this new year (1/1/11).

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.

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.

"I believe it's absolutely crucial that you and I slow our pace and
discipline our time in order to be in the Word of God on a daily basis.
Why? Because when we're not in the Word-- reading it through
consistently-- we forget who our God is and what He expects and requires.
We have a tendency to rationalize our humanity and and forget His
holiness." (Kay Arthur)

Good encouragement for that first goal!

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. (Michael Hiatt's blog gives good reasons)

Third, I want to blog consistently again. That will mean discipline in my time (away from FB) and discipline in writing.

Just a few quick thoughts for today....

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....

Scriptures for 2011

2010-12-31T00:01:00.002-06:00

#1 January 1, 2011 (1/1/11)

# 2 February 2, 2011

# 3 February 22, 2011

Merry Christmas 2010...

2010-12-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas to you all!

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.

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!

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.

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!

Yes, Jesus is the reason for this wonderful season!

and this year... we are ALL home! Oh yes, I am smiling! Oh yes, I am!

Merry Christmas to you all!

Jesus is the Reason...

2010-12-02T18:37:00.002-06:00

As we start the Christmas season...

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.

Listen to this and enjoy!

Do You Set Goals for Yourself?

2010-11-03T21:28:00.005-05:00

This summer I set two. A physical challenge and a spiritual challenge.

Both required discipline.

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.

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.

Since I have read my Bible consistently for years, the challenge was just to read MORE each day. And to be consistent.

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.

Maybe I could.

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.

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.

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.

And on October 30th, I ran the 5k. I am slow, but my goal was to run the entire race. And I did.
And the crazy thing is, I even won in my age division.

Sometimes it pays to be old.

It always pays to train for the race set before us.

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.

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.

Do you set goals for your life?
Would you share?

Quote from Susanna Wesley...

2010-07-19T00:01:00.002-05:00

Back in Feburary of this year I posted a blog about all of my books and being a book-a-holic. 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.

I am back reading "The Grand Weaver" 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!)

I have a quote that I want to share...
John Wesley had asked his mother, Susanna Wesley, to define sin. Here is her answer:

"Son, whatever weakens your reasoning,
impairs the tenderness of your conscience,
obscures your sense of God,
or takes away your relish for spiritual things;
in short, if anything increases the authority and
power of the flesh over the Spirit,
then that to you becomes sin,
however good it is in itself,"

I agree with Ravi Zacharias- I doubt any theologians could have done better than she did!

Certainly we all would do well to use this as a guide to search our lives and our decisions and our choices.

The World of "Mother"

2010-07-18T06:32:00.006-05:00

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.

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.

She did so well - of course! You can read her story here.

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.

And for the Mom of the new Mom - it is certainly another "No Greater Joy" moment..

Welcome, my Julia, to the world of "Mother".

(P.S. - there will be pics of our Baby Josiah coming soon!)

The Other Team's Fight Song...

2010-07-16T07:19:00.005-05:00

Do you ever find yourself singing the other team's fight song?

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.

Then in my home state - there are two big 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).

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.

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?

For those avid fans - I know the answer. It is a resounding NO! NEVER!

Yet, as Christians, we often do.

Light is totally different from darkness.

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.

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________.

Let me share a few scriptures for us to meditate on:

I Peter 1: 14-15
As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you
lived in ignorance, but just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you
do; for it is written: "Be holy because I am holy."

Ephesian 5:8-13
"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live
as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness,
righteousness and truth) and find our what pleases the Lord. Have
nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose
them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in
secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is
light that makes everything visible..."

Luke 11:23
"Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me
scatters."

and look at this same passage from the Message Version:

Luke 11:23
"This is war, and there is no neutral ground. If you're not on my side,
you're the enemy; if you're not helping, you're making things worse. "

"nuff said. That last passage says it pretty strong.... "there is NO neutral ground"

So, the question remains... Do we ever sing the other team's fight song? What is our life humming?

Any thoughts?

Coming Soon...

2010-06-23T22:10:00.004-05:00

In the next few days or maybe a week or so...

... 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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

The miracle of birth...
Coming again soon...

Not as I Planned...

2010-05-16T17:03:00.007-05:00

A beach get-away...

It is a little bit of heaven to this gal.

Well, usually.

However, this year, my trip made a WRONG turn.

I thought I would not bore you all with all the details. But I do not know any other way to tell this story.

Day One:
Wonderful trip down to Destin. Laughter does good like medicine.

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...

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.

Day Two:
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.

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.

I still felt YUK. But it had to get better soon.

Have I mentioned yet how much I also LOVE seafood?

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.

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....

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.

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.

Think quick.

What do you do?

If I lay down and pass out - they will not know. That would not be good.

If I go to the door and tell them that I am not feeling so well.... I will certainly pass out and fall. That would not be good.

So.... I took a couple of quick steps and BANGED on the door - and dove for the bed.

Of course they came running. I scared them to death. Whatever - I scared me to death.

"Get me something to drink. Quick!" Orange juice. Something to get my sugar levels up. NOW.

I think I was dehydrated. Does it sound like I am having a vacation yet?

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...

Day three:

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.

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.

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.

So, I come away with a few thoughts.
(1) Friends are a treasure.
(2) Laughter really does good like medicine.
(3) When the body functions as it was designed, it will not receive food poison and keep it. (whether you like it or not)
(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!)
(5) Having a Dr. J who lets me call her on her cell phone is a blessing.
(6) Sitting on the beach is still therapy for what ever ails you. (if you can get to get to the beach)
(7) Riding in a wheel chair is not as much fun as it looks like.
(8) There is no place like home.

I am thankful for the opportunity to go to the beach - but this year it was not as I had planned.

The Written Word is truly the LIVING Word of God...

2010-04-28T14:53:00.004-05:00

We have just received word from our Soldier Son that he will soon be boarding his plane for the first leg of his journey home. This is the end of his second deployment.

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 here.

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"

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.

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.

The Living Word...

Given so freely - to speak so clearly - when we simply take the time to hear.

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.

My heart is full. My emotions are once again fragile.

But today it is from an entirely different perspective.

Cousins...

2010-04-15T22:53:00.002-05:00

I saw many cousins today.

First cousins - with whom I have a storehouse of precious memories.

Second cousins - who really are more like nieces and nephews to me.

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.

Regardless, I think we need to take the time to get together more often. Certainly for better circumstances.

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!

Please continue to pray for the family. We are holding on to the truth that God's Grace is truly sufficient!

In His Arms...

2010-04-14T09:52:00.005-05:00

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.

"Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them for to such
belongs the kingdom of God."
Luke 18:16

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.

But then I had the picture of my Savior receiving this precious 2-year-old into His arms. Literally.

While the hosts cry Hosanna,

from heaven descending,

With glorifed saints and the angels attending,

With Grace on His brow,

like a halo of Glory,

Will Jesus receive His own.

(Horatius Bonar)

When Life is Hard...

2010-04-12T22:09:00.003-05:00

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.

That is what families do...

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.

Burden bearers...

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.

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.

My heart aches. for the precious mom and dad... for the 4 siblings...
for the grandparents...
and then for all of the others... close and extended.

Praying for comfort - comfort that ONLY our Savior can give.

I say again... my heart aches. For and with them...

2010 Blog Party

2010-04-09T18:45:00.009-05:00

*** Please NOTE**** My party time has been interrupted by a death in our family. I have not had time to visit with you in your blogs... I will be back to visit with you all next week. Thank you for your prayers for my cousin's family and the death of their 2 year old daughter...

I participated in the blog party last year and had a wonderful time! I have not had the time to prepare as well as I would like to - but decided to go ahead and join in on the fun anyway.

So, to introduce myself... and the different aspects of my blogging.

I am a wife (of 33 years), a mother (of 3), a mother-in-law (of 3), a grandmother (0f 2 and one on the way). I am also an ex-homeschool teacher. I had the privilege to teach them for 12 years. You will find that I value this role (wife/mother/grand) as a high calling... and will share about the dailyness of our home life.

I am a pastor's wife and also the Women's Minstry Director at our church. I have a passion to support/lead/teach women and to encourage them in their various roles. I am a Bible study teacher, and have had the opportunity to speak in some Women's Conferences. My husband and I have also lead in several Marriage Retreats. I view my primary role in our church as my husband's prayer warrior. But my ministry will be to our women. I really desire to be a Titus 2 woman - and to teach/lead other women to do likewise.

Our son is a soldier - and we have weathered the challenges of two deployments. You will see that this is on my heart and will spill over into my blog. Thankfully, this second deployment is almost complete. We are all so proud of him but from this mother's perspective - I pray that he does not have to go to war again. Regardless, you can visit with me in that part of our lives with the link on the navigation bar. I have had the opportunity to minister to others who are walking this road also. Please let me know if you are facing this - I would love to add you and your soldier to my prayer list.

During this past year - my blogging has been lacking. I think Facebook is part of the problem. LOL. My plan is to use my twitter to update my facebook. And to let my facebook lead to my blog. I can add so much more information here and have more of the ministry to others through my writing here. So, I plan to detox from my addiction to facebook. Anyone else had that problem lately? You can find me here: www.facebook.com/dbwarren And if you have a twitter account you can follow me here: www.twitter.com/ddwarren

I am offering two give-aways. I did not get them sent in to have it posted on the gift page... so I offer them here.

The first gift is a STARBUCKS CARD. ($10.00). Leave a comment and let me know if you are currently a follower of my blog - or if you have added yourself to my list of followers. I will enter you twice if you will also join my list of networked blogs (see the sidebar) for FB. How I would love to meet you at Starbucks to visit in person - but since that is not possible - I will send you for a latte with a friend.

Second gift: Go to our Family Blog.... Hal and DeeDee (Ministering Together to Families). We (my husband and I) have such a heart to help families not only SURVIVE but also to THRIVE together to the Glory of God. This blog also has been lacking for the past year.... but we are ready to get it moving again. I will be giving a book: LOVE and RESPECT. You can enter two times here also: (1) follow that blog and leave me a comment to let me know that you have done so. (2) Let me know some topics that you would like to see us cover on this blog for the home and family.

Now, to let the party begin - I look forward to meeting you and visiting with you on your blog!

Daily Quiet Time

2010-03-22T10:58:00.004-05:00

This morning, while reading Secrets of the Vine (by Bruce Wilkinson), I came upon this:

"Some Christians I know try to have their meaningful personal times with God just before bed, but I have yet to find a respected spiritual leader throughout history who had devotions at night. Unless you get up early, you're unlikely to break through to a deeper relationship with God."
(p. 107-- italics mine)

Personally, I know that I do better in my day, in my attitude, in my work, and in my relationships when I meet with my Savior first. However, I have said many times to many people - whether in face to converstation, or in class discussions, or even in teaching a seminar-- that it does not matter when you have your devotion/quiet time. The key is just that you DO IT.

But, I am challenged by this. I am going to be looking up - yet again - the "rising while it is yet night" and the "early in the morning" passages from scripture. Also, I want to do some research of men and women of the faith who have faithfully walked with God and thus made an impact on this world. (in THEIR world)

Not that I am trying to disprove the statement made by Wilkinson, I am just quite intrigued and challenged by it. Perhaps, it is the gentle hand of my Savior to once again bid me to get up and meet with Him early EVERY DAY on a consistent basis. A time set aside that is not determined by the night before, or the weekend, or the busy lifestyle that I mentioned in my last post, or the..... whatever.

I am sure that I will be back with you on this one...
But in the mean time, I would love to hear your thought and your devotion times...

Life is Busy

2010-03-16T22:07:00.003-05:00

It is an EXTREME understatement to say that life is busy. And has been for quite some time...

I knew that January would be eaten alive. There is always time needed for recovery from the Christmas/New Year’s Holidays. Then this year we had two weeks with my Jon home. We took him back to the airport and then had the final preparations for the Couple’s retreat which was held in Gatlinburg the last weekend of the month. And *poof* January was GONE.

What I did not realize is what would happen to February. For some reason, I did not anticipate the counseling that would be needed after we got home. I should have – because it always happens after/during a Bible Study - and with Satan’s attack on the Home as it is – I should have expected the needed times for talking after a retreat on the Home. So I ask you to be praying for several who are working through some hard stuff – and for us as we try to minister to them.

ALSO in the month of Feb – Our church family had two deaths. One with cancer and then one in a tragic automobile accident. We are honored to be able to be with these families during these hard times – but we also covet your prayers for us too. It is our desire to be there for them and to help bear their burden.

Now, it is middle of March – and yet another death. Another battle lost to cancer. Another family grieving. This makes six funerals in the past 5 months for our church family.

I said life has been busy. But in reality, I think it is more applicable to say it has been draining. Physically draining. Spiritually draining. Emotionally draining. Some very high - Highs. And then some very low - Lows. Does that make sense?

Now, I have not even mentioned Hal's trip to Haiti in the midst of all of this. I hope to get him to blog about that soon.

Also, I have several other blog posts just holding on and waiting for me to have the time to put them here. Hopefully, it will not be too long.

But for now... I think I shall go to bed.

Rest.
Sweet Rest for my body... for my soul.

A Book-A-Holic...

2010-02-14T15:42:00.006-06:00

I mentioned a few weeks ago - the need to clean/organize/declutter my study. And even though I have had short moments to begin the work, it is has been very minimal - until yesterday.

But as you know, it is tax season. The necessity to get all of the stuff together to take to our wonderful accountant is what MADE me get in that room and really do some work.

And the first need was accomplished. The tax folder is loaded and ready to go.

Much of the clutter is filed away. Lots of it went straight to the trash. But the needed filing is certainly better - and what is left is in a tray "to be filed".

But the real meat of this post is to confess that I am a book-a-holic. And that was also the cause of much of the disaster of that room. So, as I worked, I began to stack the books that I have purchased in the past year - that have yet to be read. All the while I was wondering where in the world I would put them. I did not want to just put them on one of my bookshelves (AS IF there is any room on the shelves).

Maybe I need to mention here that another bookshelf is on the purchase list...
And maybe there will be enough of a tax return to purchase it... just maybe.

However, I decided to take the books that were in stacks and bags in my room, and put them on the top shelf of the computer desk. This would be my "to read" section. There are 28. That should keep me busy for a while huh? My goal is to read them ALL this year. 2010.

How - I ask myself? Our lives ARE busy... but there IS time. I just need to manage it better. I keep thinking about the quote that I read once that said, "A person who CAN read and does not...is no better off than a person who CAN'T read at all." So, that shelf full of books is of no benefit to me - if they just sit on the shelf.

The first on my list is "Grand Weaver" by Ravi Zacharias. I had to make myself put it down to write this blogpost. I am sure that there will be quotes and thoughts about it that I will want to share with you along the way. It has already pricked at my heart...

So tell me...What are you reading? I would love to know...

Updates and Prayer Request

2010-01-27T13:58:00.003-06:00

Just a short blog to let you have a few quick updates and also to request prayer.

1. We had a wonderful two weeks with our Warrior for his R & R from Afghanistan. We were able to celebrate Christmas with him. And then last weekend - we had a birthday party for Hal, Jonathan and Ronnie with the entire family together. (All three birthdays are within approx. 3 weeks of each other.) Such fun days together. And one desire that I had for those days is that God would multiply our minutes together - and He really did. It seemed like much more than just two weeks.

2. We have our Church Couples' Retreat coming this weekend. We love it and are so excited about the opportunity - but because of the past two weeks - we are SO behind in getting the final touches together.

So, there are two requests in here - prayer for our son and his precious wife as he serves the final months of this deployment. And then prayer for us as we lead in this conference/retreat.

Thanks so much! I so appreciate all of you. It is my desire to be more consistent with my blogging and visiting your blogs next week.

Tuesdays Together (in the Word) for 2010...

2010-01-19T00:01:00.002-06:00

I have not completely dropped the idea for our Tuesdays Together. It was a source of accountability and encouragement for me and I believe for the others who participated with me for 2009. But it is time for a change.

So, let's try this for 2010:

I have posted a reading plan on the side bar under the Tuesday's Together Button. However, instead of limiting us to only posting from this reading, let's just share from any passage that has spoken to you during that week. It could come from this reading, a sermon, a book that you are reading, or from your personal devotion.

The goal remains the same: to encourage each other in the Word and in our relationship with our Lord.

You can link your blog if you would like. You can just leave a comment and share your thoughts even if you do not have a blog.

I look forward to sharing Tuesdays with you again in 2010.

Remember to visit the others who link with us. We all need the encouragement. What you have to say and share may be just what someone else needs to hear...

It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas AGAIN!

2010-01-15T00:01:00.000-06:00

The tree is still up and decorated. The other decorations are in place. Nothing has been put away yet.

I will have Christmas music playing all day... and I have a Christmas Movie ready to put in the DVD player. We are celebrating again with our Warrior!

The family is coming and the ham is ready to be put in the oven. The presents are wrapped and the stocking is stuffed!

I can hardly wait. (Pictures will be posted later...)

We just get to double dip this year :)

New Beginnings...

2010-01-14T00:01:00.002-06:00

Here I am again sitting at my desk... and it really needs much attention.

Somehow, when I decided to have my house painted and new flooring BETWEEN Thanksgiving and Christmas, this study of mine is what has suffered the most.

I won't bore you with the details. Because I have covered it before. But I will say that I desire for my study to be just that. A study. A place of quiet rest. A place of solitude. A place of reflection. A place to work. And most of all, a place to sit at His feet.

With that freshly in my mind and my heart, I will not call it a resolution, I think I will call it my first goal for 2010.

Do I dare take pictures so that I can give you an update and show you the before and after? I will think about that .

But I will let you know this. It will not be fast. My calendar is FULL to the rim for January. The plan is to whittle away as much as I can for now. Little bit size pieces. But by the end of Februray... I hope to have a "goal accomplished" post to share.

So, the new year has begun...

I have recently read - and posted on my fb page - that the difference in goals and accomplishing them is DISCIPLINE.

Are you working on something? Just one thing? Let's do it!

Applauding our Soldiers...

2010-01-10T17:19:00.000-06:00

It goes without saying, that we would applaud our soldier when he arrived home. But I must say that I was not prepared for the waiting.

We arrived at the airport early. I was somewhat surprised to see so many soldiers there. It must be one of the "hubs" for their arriving and departing. That was the first thing to prick this mom's heart. But it was easy for me to refrain from finding one to hug. My soldier would arrive soon.

Time for his plane to arrive and we moved from the food-court area to the corridor where the escalators brought the passengers up. All passengers from all flights come this way and then go to get their luggage.

We had to get behind a "barrier" to wait. The USO volunteers had a booth and were ready to make sure that all arriving Soldiers were properly greeted. We met several other families who were also waiting on their soldier. Some had made signs. All were so excited we could hardly contain ourselves.

We found out that once the plane landed, it would be nearly an hour before he actually made it up to this point because of customs. It was wonderful to get the call that he had landed. Sheer relief. Back on US soil. SAFE.

But as we waited, and as passengers came up the escalators, the moment that a soldier was spotted... Everyone immediately began to applaud! The USO ladies would greet them, and they were given a phone if needed to make a call - and then once again applauded. I have always wanted the opportunity to be part of such a group. One by one, many of our honorable men and women arrived... and we were able for a short minute to let them know that they are loved and appreciated for their service to us and to our country. For just a short moment, we could say "Thank You."

Needless to say, my eyes filled with tears, and often overflowed.

We had Brantley at the front, ready to scoot under the barrier and get to her husband as soon as we spotted him. Our first warning was just, "do not cross that red line" where the security guards were posted. But when one wife who was standing nearby, saw her soldier - she took off like a flash - and the red line meant nothing. Tunnel Vision. One thing in sight. Her Soldier. So, we told Brantley, "never-mind" the red line means nothing when you are going to greet your man.

For a solid hour, we waited and we applauded. We watched and I cried. We applauded and we waited. Soldier after soldier.

Then Hal said, "There he is!" Our boy was rising up on that escalator. Brantley did not have to cross the red line, Jonathan rushed/ran/hurried to wrap her in his arms. What a wonderful sight!

I do not have the words to express the emotion. Maybe this will capture some of it for you to see.

But I must say, you really have to be there. Seriously.

So, if you are ever at the airport as our Men and Women of our Military are arriving or departing and if you have just a few minutes to stop and stand and greet and applaud, I highly recommend it. They deserve it and you will be blessed by the opportunity.

I promise.

Hurry Up and WAIT...

2010-01-08T14:18:00.004-06:00

We are awaiting the arrival of our soldier for his 2 week break. And we are waiting and we are waiting and we are waiting.

He left his base on Monday and we were SO excited because it seemed as if he were going to get here sooner than we had been told. What we did not know is that he was just moving to the next base to WAIT for a briefing.

So, the briefing was held and we were given a date of departure from the country. And he has safely arrived in a SAFE ZONE.

We thought we were going to the airport tomorrow morning to pick him up - and we were ready to leave BEFORE the crack of dawn to make sure that we were sitting in the terminal when he arrived. I had held off the extreme excitement - until we knew an arrival date. So I must say that last night my heart was fluttering with happiness - knowing that tomorrow morning he would be home. (even though we know that it is just for two weeks).

How disappointing to get the phone call that his flight arrangements have been cancelled. We are in WAIT mode again. Hopefully it is just a short delay. Hopefully he will be in route later tonight.

He will get 14 days at home beginning WHEN HE GETS HOME. And for that we are sooooooooo thankful. But we are ready. I will try to give an update... but for now, thank you for your continued support and prayers.

Waiting....

Merry Christmas 2009...

2009-12-24T13:50:00.003-06:00

Well, the house is clean and as decorated as it will be for this year...

The food for Christmas Eve is cooking. The food for Christmas Breakfast and Lunch is in the refrigerator... I will put the casseroles together tonight and have them ready for tomorrow.

Most of the wrapping is done ... wonder if I could just put the stuff for the stockings in without wrapping them this year? Maybe that will be the NEW tradition. We have 13 stockings at our house since we celebrate Christmas at Breakfast :)... I love it!

I just had a chance to AOL IM with my Warrior. Makes me so happy and so sad. He has to go on a "walk" as he calls it tomorrow. So, if you understand what I mean by that - please pray for him and the others that are "walking"... as you are celebrating Christmas with your family. We are so proud of him and the others who willingly serve so that we can continue to be free! But goodness - how we miss him. Always. But especially at Christmas. Once again so thankful for the technology that lets us have contact. Cannot even imagine how much harder it would be without it.

So, for now, let me close with this Video. I hope you will take the time to listen and watch it all.

Merry Christmas!

Memories...

2009-12-20T16:55:00.004-06:00

27 years ago, Hal and I moved to Decatur Alabama. He had just graduated from seminary, and we had a 3 year old daughter and a 6 month old son. (Our baby came the next summer.) This was the first "full-time" church. We were young... and away from home.

One of the scriptures that I have seen God fulfill in our lives is the promise from Mark 10:29-30
"29 So Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s,
30 who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands..."

So, enter the scene of our lives - Henry and Shirley Workman. We had left our family - for ministry - and they became family to us. They took us as their own and loved our children as if they were their own grand-children. I am talking literally here.

i.e. They offered for us to come and swim in their pool - and they were serious. When I did not take them up on the offer immediately, Shirley would call me, to personally invite me to come and bring my babies. Henry gave Hal the key to their house and told us that anything they had was ours too. He meant it. Shirley would call when there was something going on with the young couples at the church and offer to babysit my kiddos so that this young mom could go too.

Our little ones had to come out to "big church" at the age of three. I was in the choir - so after a few weeks of a break from choir and sitting with me, Shirley was the one who told me to go back to the choir and let them sit with her. For all three children. That is just the way she was.

They bought our children gifts - probably way too many - but they would just tell us that they did not have any grandchildren yet - so they would take ours. And on... and on... and on I could go with examples. Seven years worth...

Shirley had cancer when we first met. She had been given 6 months to live. God healed her and her 6 months lasted 27 years. This past week, she met her Savior face to face.

It has been a few years since I have seen her or talked to her. We do not get back to Decatur very often. But I have a storehouse of memories. And heaven is a little sweeter...

So, Henry - thank you for sharing your life and all that you had with us. You will never know this side of heaven how much it meant to us then... and how much it still means to us now. Sweet, sweet memories.

Also thanks to Robert, Tony and Jeff - for sharing your parents and your home and your lives with us. Even though we do not see you often - our lives are richer because of the Workmans...

A Different Christmas Poem...

2009-12-17T18:44:00.004-06:00

(This is my Warrior - currently serving)

I received this poem today in an email... and I wanted to share it with you all. Please remember our soldiers who are out there this Christmas season... serving us all.... protecting us... and by choice I might add.

And remember their families as well. It is a sacrifice. Trust me.

Once again - I proclaim that freedom is not free.

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,

I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.

My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,

My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,

Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,

Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,

Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.

In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,

So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.
The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,

But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear..

Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,

Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,

And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,

A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,

Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.

Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,

Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.
"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,

"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!

Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,

You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,

Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light

Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,

I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."

"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,

That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,

I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.

My Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"

Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."

My dad stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam',

And now it is my turn and so, here I am.
I've not seen my own son in more than a while,

But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.

Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,

The red, white, and blue... an American flag.

I can live through the cold and the being alone,

Away from my family, my house and my home.
I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,

I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.

I can carry the weight of killing another,

Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..

Who stand at the front against any and all,

To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall.."
" So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,

Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."

"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,

"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?

It seems all too little for all that you've done,

For being away from your wife and your son."
Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,

"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.

To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,

To stand your own watch, no matter how long.

For when we come home, either standing or dead,

To know you remember we fought and we bled.

Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,

That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."

PLEASE, would you do me the kind favor of sending this to as many people as you can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our U.S service men and women for our being able to celebrate these festivities. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make people stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us.

LCDR Jeff Giles, SC, USN

30th Naval Construction Regiment

OIC, Logistics Cell One

Al Taqqadum, Iraq

Thanksgiving Week

2009-11-23T21:24:00.003-06:00

Here we are at the beginning of Thanksgiving Holidays.

I am struggling to write a post.

I am very thankful - I just have the multi-emotions going again.

I worded it pretty well two years ago here.

Basically, it comes to this... for 2009.

We will celebrate Thanksgiving together.
By "we" - I mean Hal and I, MawMaw and PawPaw, MaMaw, Andy, Jenifer, Aubrey and Barrett, and Brantley.

Julia and Ronnie are coming later - and will have a few days to spend with us.

Jonathan is at war again. We will be hoping for a phone call.

Only a mom who has worn these shoes knows how they feel.

Words are few these days. Hence the lack of blogging.

Prayers are continuous...

Retreat Planning (again)...

2009-11-10T08:02:00.006-06:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 34 I am so glad that you have joined us.

Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from John 2-6; Psalms 126-128; and Proverbs 26.

As I seem to be mentioning in every post lately... life is extremely busy. I am really having a hard time finding the time to even blog this one day a week lately. And I am not happy about it!
However, this morning (Tuesday) as I sit in a cabin in the Smokey Mountains... I am blessed beyond measure. And I decided that a quick post is better than no post at all. Even if it is late going up. And I had so much that I really wanted to share.

So, I share this passage from Psalms 127 AND 128:

127

Unless the LORD builds the house,

its builders labor in vain.

Unless the LORD watches over the city,

the watchmen stand guard in vain.
In vain you rise early

and stay up late,
toiling for food to eat—
for he grants sleep to
those he loves.

Sons are a heritage from the LORD,
children a reward from him.
Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are sons born in one's youth.

Blessed is the man

whose quiver is full of them.

They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their
enemies in the gate.

128

Blessed is everyone who fears
the LORD,
who walks in his ways!
You shall eat the fruit of the labor of
your hands;
you shall be blessed,

and it shall be well with you.
Your wife will be like a fruitful vine
within your house;
your children will be like olive shoots
around your table.

Behold, thus shall
the man be blessed
who fears the LORD.

The LORD bless you from Zion!
May you see the prosperity of Jerusalem
all the days of your life!
May you see your children’s children!
Peace be upon Israel

Beautiful passages for the home and family. Precious promises to hold. Encouragement to embrace for us in the present days of attack on our marriages.

Once again, how fitting, the timing. Hal and I are away for our preparation/planning/studying time for our annual Marriage retreat. You can read about some of that preparation time here (all three posts)

How I love coming back to these verses that speak so specifically to the home and marriage and family.

I ask for prayer from all who come and read. We want ears to hear what the Spirit has to say to us. We want to have lives open and transparent enough to share our strengths and our weaknesses in this journey of life. We desire to embrace these promises and live by them. And then be able to teach/lead others to do the same.

So, for now, I go. I have much to do. Thanks in advance for your prayers.

P.S. As you can tell, Blogger has decided to act up in my formatting today. Wouldn't you know? I do not have time to wade through the html and figure out how to fix it today...so what you see is what you get. :)

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

A "No Greater Joy" Moment...

2009-11-02T20:56:00.006-06:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 33 I am so glad that you have joined us.

Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from I John 5; II John; III John; Psalms 120-125; Proverbs 25; and John 1.

One of my favorite verses... as seen by the title of my blog... is III John 1:4.

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.

I have a previous blog that talks about all of my children here. The other "no greater joy moments" posts are here.

Today I want to tell you about the most recent:

My son-in-love, Andy has just been selected as a deacon at our church. I am so proud of him. I have watched him grow in the Lord. I have seen him serve our church diligently. I have observed him as a daddy to our grandbabies and as a husband to my precious baby daughter. (BTW - their 6th anniversary was this past Sunday)

And I have NO GREATER JOY than to see our Andy walk in truth.

...Brings joy to this momma-in-law's heart.

I took a picture as some of the deacon's of our church were praying over the three who were ordained. What a blessing!

***(Alan and Bill - I am so proud of you too)***

Relaxing...

2009-10-30T19:26:00.004-05:00

We are home tonight and we feel as if it is the first night in forever that we have nothing to do.

Relaxing - and yet - both seem to be struggling with the feeling that we should be doing something. That means that it has been too long.

But this is just the way that life is sometimes. Busy. Draining. Emotional. Fun. Stressful. Physical. Painful. Hurting. Joyful. And the complicated task of juggling it all.

So, for my blogging buds... I have missed visiting your blogs. And if I still have anyone reading mine after this time of such inconsistancy... I will tell you that I will once again try to be more consistant. But I make no promises. You see, I do not know what tomorrow holds.

But I do know who Holds Tomorrow. And He will give strength for the journey.

And if you will leave me a comment and let me know that you are still coming around - I promise to come and visit with you. I promise.

His Grace is Sufficient...

2009-10-19T21:55:00.005-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 32 I am so glad that you have joined us.

Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from II Corinthians 9-13; Psalms 115-118.

This would have to be one of my very favorite passages...

II Corinthians 12:9-10

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships,
persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

I really will not be able to comment much on this right now- we are dealing with sickness - and I have just been called to come and help out with the Grandbabies. So, blogging time moves to the back burner - and it should.

And this passage applies to this particular situation - His grace is sufficient.

And for what ever we may be dealing with right now - weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions and calamities... His grace is sufficient. When we are weak - He is Strong.

I rest in that truth. I hold on to that truth. I am so thankful for that truth.

So we do not lose heart...

2009-10-12T22:23:00.008-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 31 I am so glad that you have joined us.

Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from II Corinthians 5-8; Psalms 110-114; and Proverbs 23.

For my post today - I am backing up into the end of last week's reading.

II Corinthians 4:16-18

"So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner
self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is
preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look
not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the
things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."

I am currently studying Priscilla Shirer's book, One in a Million, with the ladies of our church. This passage made me think of some of the things that we are learning in this study. I want to share a quote with you from the end of week #3:

"We've got to know that sickness, financial debacles, martial disasters, heartbreaks, and the greatest needs of our lives don't have to derail our relationship with God. In the midst of our pain, God makes a way for us to see and experience His greatness." (pg 77)

We have to remember that whatever we are dealing with right now is the "temporary - the transient." What is going on in the unseen world right now - for us- is the eternal. Therefore, we do not lose heart.

I am still chewing on this thought. So, tonight - I leave it with you.

By the way, I recommend the Bible Study to you. You would enjoy it too. I know you would.

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

A Tribute to My Dad...

2009-10-11T00:01:00.004-05:00

On this day eight years ago, my earthly father left this old world and met his Savior face to face.

At the end of this post, I have a video that was produced for the December 2007 Billy Graham Television Special in honor of Ruth Bell Graham. But it speaks to my heart for dad too.

No, he did not know the Lord as his Savior in my early years. As a matter of fact, I was 16 years old when he was saved. So, he did not serve the Lord all of his years... but what a difference Christ makes in a life.

Now, do not get me wrong. He was a good daddy. He loved his family. He was good to us. But he did not take us to church. Mom had to do that alone in those early years. He did not serve the Lord, because he did not KNOW Him.

But when he met the Savior... what a transformation that took place. I remember hearing him pray. I remember seeing him reading his bible. I remember hearing the sermon tapes that he listened to on a regular basis. I watched him grow from a baby in Christ to a mature vibrant Christian in a remarkable amount of time. It convicted me. He memorized scripture. And what a blessing to hear him pray using many scriptures to claim.

I can still see him sitting near the front of the church - lifting his hands - saying "Glory". I can still see his smile. I can still feel his rugged hands - as he would lift them to me for me to kiss :) instead of kissing him on his head.

There are days that I want to call him and talk to him. We often mention things that we know he would be saying if he were here with us. We have a storehouse full of precious memories.

But then I hear this song... and I am reminded once again of where he is and what he is experiencing. Many times he would tell us that he looked forward to leaving this old world and meeting his Lord. He would ask us, "Why would I want to stay here?" He did tell us on his 60th birthday - that if he had known that he was going to live this long - he would have taken better care of himself. :) (I will have to share about that birthday party at another time)

Truly, he would be one who would say..."You can have this old world... give me JESUS".

And how precious to know - He has Him. He is in the presence of His King. He is experiencing the real JOY of his salvation. And I will see him again one day, when I leave this old world... What a glad reunion day...

All I can say is, "GLORY!"

Fernando Ortega - "Give Me Jesus" from Adamson.TV on Vimeo.

Disciplines

2009-10-08T20:39:00.003-05:00

I am on a journey. To re-establish certain disciplines in my life.

It is somewhat surprising to me how easy "lack of discipline" can creep into my life. In a lot of areas. One leads to two, two leads to three...and on and on and on.

So, in my journey, I am taking on one at a time. I decided to start with my weight. That is a good example of the "creeping" that can take place. Five pounds quickly turns into ten, and ten can become twenty - and on and on and on. Suddenly - or not so suddenly - I find myself 25 pounds more than I should be. I decided that I did not want it to be 30 next year and 35 the next. So... discipline # 1. I am almost at my goal. I have actually reached my first goal, but am still working on the "ultimate" goal. And I can tell you - I feel much better. It is amazing how much better your body functions when it is not having to carry around the excess weight.

I have several more items that I intend to get back in order:
Consistent Bible Study time.
Consistent Exercise.
Order in my home.
Reading. (I have a ton of books just waiting on me to read them)
Writing. (I have several dreams/goals that I want to address here)
Even more consistency in my blogging.

I decided that I would be so overwhelmed if I tackled all of these at the same time. So, with the first one almost completely under my belt (a much smaller belt I might add :)... I continue the journey as I pick up another discipline.

I will share more as I accomplish a goal or two.

Do you want to join me on this journey. If so, tell me which area you are working on. I will pray for/with you and I covet your prayers too.

A disciplined life is a productive life. And knowing that I only have this one life - I want to spend it to the best of my ability for the Glory of God. Disciplines help me accomplish such.

Ministry and Fatigue and lack of Blogging...

2009-10-05T19:14:00.007-05:00

After taking a break for the summer - we are trying to get back into the routine of sharing a bit of what we have received from the Word this week. So....welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 30 I am so glad that you have joined us.

Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

I usually post this blog on Monday nights so that it will be published on Tuesday Mornings for any who want to link with us. Sometimes ministry opportunities change my plans. It is nearly 11:00 p.m. and I have not been home long. I will try to get my blog updated with my thoughts to share later during the day on Tuesday - because when I reach this level of fatigue - everything shuts down and there is no way that I can blog right now.

But as I type this, I am reminded of the day tomorrow - and it may be this time tomorrow night before I am home again.... so, I will look forward to reading what you all have to share with me.

Seriously...

Love my blogging buddies and look forward to seeing what you have to say on Tuesdays Together...

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

Yellow Ribbons and Sentimental Stuff...

2009-10-03T18:49:00.002-05:00

We were so excited when we moved into our new house 14 1/2 years ago. It was the first one for us to buy. The first one to be OURS. Really - we were MORE than excited.

We had just been through one of the toughest years of our ministry. Probably THE toughest year. This was such a dream come true - and such a witness to the faithfulness of our God - through the storm.

The house was a new construction - and someone left a circular saw blade in our yard. Our Jonathan was 13 1/2 years old. He and Hal had a lot of fun throwing it at the little pine tree at the side of our yard. And that is where they left it. After several years - I decided that was not a good idea and removed the saw blade from the trunk of the tree. I thought it was not smart to have a saw blade sticking out from a tree in the yard. However, I was rebuked severely by the two men in my life - and they promptly took a hammer and placed it back "where it belonged."

That is where it has remained. So there is a circular saw blade seriously embedded into the trunk now. I have gotten used to it. I have used it to hang things on when I needed to spray paint them (i.e. the baskets for weddings). It has just become part of the "landscape".

How fitting that I now have once again, hung the yellow ribbon at the top of the saw blade. The tree is in the back yard - at the end of the driveway. Every time I come down the drive - I see it. Oh I have one on the front porch right under the flag also. But I think the one on the tree - with the saw blade under it - would have to be my favorite. Jonathan would like it too. I know he would.

The tree has really grown. The saw blade is secure. The yellow ribbon (yet again) is a reminder that our God has His Hand on our Soldier and we are awaiting his return home from this war. We know that God will be with us all through this storm.

Regardless, I am now sentimental about the tree, the silly saw blade, and the yellow ribbon.

Just thought you would want to know.

Listen to this...

2009-10-02T20:41:00.001-05:00

This was shared on Facebook today...
and it blessed my heart - so I wanted to share it with you.

Enjoy :)

Oh Death, Where is your Victory?...

2009-09-28T22:30:00.002-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 29 I am so glad that you have joined us.

Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from I Corinthians 10-16.

These passages are so full of blog posts... it was going to be really hard to narrow down which passage or passages I wanted to share. However, with the events of early Monday Morning... I am compelled to share this.

I Corinthians 15:54- 57

When the perishable puts on the imperishable,

and the mortal puts on immortality,

then shall come to pass the saying that is written:

"Death is swallowed up in victory."

"O death, where is your victory?

O death, where is your sting?"
The sting of death is sin,

and the power of sin is the law.

But thanks be to God,

who gives us the victory

through our Lord Jesus Christ.

This morning we received news that a dear friend had passed away. She had been sick. She had been in the hospital. We had visited her several times - even just Saturday. She was released to go home on Sunday. She entered her eternal home sometime during the night.

I think I have been in a numb shock all day. Once again I have had to go about the "normal" stuff - because I have my precious grandbabies on Monday's. But I have had such a heavy heart.

Certainly not for her. She died the way that I have always said that I want. Go to sleep in your bed one night - and wake up in the presence of our King. The one who gives us the Victory - Our Lord Jesus Christ! That is glory! I can get so excited just thinking about what she is seeing and what she is doing today.

But this particular family is ALMOST family to us. Our roots go deep and long with them in multiple directions. We know and love her husband, her children, her grandchildren. As a matter of fact, her grandson and my son are best friends and are together serving our country in Afghanistan. (Which means - be praying for him too - because I do not think he will be able to come home)

But that is not all - we know and love the extended family too. We know her brothers and sisters. Her brother was our pastor when we were called into ministry. He married us - licensed and ordained Hal into the Gospel Ministry. He baptized my father. He ordained both of our dads as deacons. You get the picture here.

We are really close to her nephew and his family.... I mean really close. Some of our best friends on this earth...

I could go on and on... trying to explain... but really can just say - they are ALMOST family to us. And we love them all like family.

And no, we do not grieve as they do - but almost.

But I love these scriptures. Because we do not grieve as those who have no hope - no we do not.

Because - oh Death where is your victory - oh death - where is your sting....

We have victory through Jesus Christ Our Lord.

Oh.. she knew our Jesus as her Savior - and today she is with Him. VICTORY!

And because we know Jesus as our Savior - one day... we will be with Him. And that will be Victory!

(And we will be re-united with this precious one and the many others in our lives who have gone before us). That is good stuff!

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

Snacks and Strokes #2

2009-09-25T00:01:00.003-05:00

Our Women's Ministry held the second "Snacks and Strokes" at our church on Thursday night. What a wonderful time we had together. I just had to share some of the pictures with you. Now when I got home - I see that some of the pics are blurred - and some people are not on any of these pictures. They must have been hiding from the camera :)... I won't name them tonight...

But I will say that we just might have some "artists in hiding" here.

So wonderful to have sweet fellowship, good fun, and wonderful food together with Sisters in Christ...

Enjoy...

Morning Devotion...

2009-09-24T10:26:00.003-05:00

Psalm 84:1

How lovely is your dwelling place,

O LORD Almighty!

The following is a portion from the Proverbs 31 Devotion today by Lysa Terkerst.

It is my prayer for today...and I wanted to share it with you...

Psalm 84:1 reminds me that God's dwelling place is lovely.

So, I ask God to dwell in me richly.
I want Him to be what radiates about me.
I want Him to be my pretty today.
Not my hair.
Not my outfit.
Not my efforts.
But simply Him
and His spirit dancing invisibly about me...
shifting a wrong attitude,
guarding my words,
and whispering constant truths into my heart.
.

Amen and Amen...

You can read the entire devotion here. Enjoy...

Thank you Lysa for these words this morning.

WFW # 19 Beach and Babies...

2009-09-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

Psalm 78:4 (b)

"...we will tell the next generation

the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD,

His power, and the wonders He has done.

Tuesdays Together Restart

2009-09-21T22:13:00.002-05:00

Time to get this started back. Just to be honest I need the accountability...

So, the reading for this week is from I Corinthians 10-16. Let's get back on track together and be ready to post next Tuesday. I will be here - will you join me?

Also, if any of you want to post on some of your reading while we have taken this break - feel free. We will love to hear from you.

Love my Blogging Friends...

Back to School?

2009-09-19T14:34:00.004-05:00

Visiting with some of my favorite people in this world last night...

Just a small part of our conversation was about a friend of theirs who has gone back to school to get his Doctor of Missions....

Made me start thinking about going back myself....

Here are my thoughts and questions:

(1) What is the real reason why I would even want to do such?

(2) What would be the REAL benefit for my life/ministry?

(3) What degree would I even want?

(4) How in the world would I pay for it?

(5) Am I willing to make the necessary adjustments in my life to do so?

(6) What does the Godly counsel in my life think?

I would love for any and all of you to leave me a comment... your thoughts?

Seriously...

Nothing...

2009-09-09T21:39:00.003-05:00

Well, after having three posts in one week - I am dry.

I just really have nothing to say.

Surely I will be back on track soon.

Going to the beach again soon - maybe that will renew my writing ability... It sure helps everything else :)

Pictures of my Warrior on SKYPE

2009-09-03T08:47:00.007-05:00

See my previous post.... as I share about the SKPYE technology that we LOVE!

But also... pray for my warrior ---- it is hard for him on the other side of the world too... in a completely different

way. Maybe go to his blog and leave a word of encouragement for him...

Thanks so much for your support, love and prayers :)

I am SO Thankful for SKYPE Technology...

2009-08-26T22:07:00.005-05:00

During Deployment days, it is good to be able to IM on AOL with my soldier and chat with him.

During Deployment days, it is good to get a phone call from my soldier and hear his voice.

BUT---

During Deployment days, it is even better to get on SKYPE with my soldier and SEE HIM.

I don't even have the words to describe the emotion that overwhelms me when the screen comes up and I see his face. Not only because it has been months - but also because of the reality that he is at war.

He is wearing in his ACU's... he is in a tent... other soldiers are at other computers behind him...I am looking at all the details.

On SKYPE we are all able to "chat" but only one of us can have video time. This was my night. I really did not have much to say. I just wanted to watch him.

No... actually I wanted to jump through the screen and hug him.

But since I could not - I did blow kisses - I did chat some - I did watch his every move - and I did hold back my tears.

... until he had to sign off. And as the tears began to flow from this Military Mom's eyes - I prayed. Silently. I had no words to speak. I once again held on to Scriptures that I so often pray for him... I once again make myself believe what I say I believe...

Isaiah 52:12b

"For the LORD will go before you,

And the God of Israel will be your rear guard."

He IS in our Lord's hands - the Lord is in front of him and the God of Israel is behind him...

and I know it.

I think when I go to the mall later in the week - I may find a soldier to hug.

I have been known to do that...

Readers Write...Writers Read

2009-08-20T21:57:00.004-05:00

I have heard this particular saying several times in the last few months. Maybe it is because I have been reading/studying more about "writing." Hence, I have read several who have made that statement: "Readers write and writers read." Interesting.

Then I find as I read, it gives the prompting to write. Often, I just want to share with you here in blogland what has touched me as I have read. So I would have to agree with the statement. As I read, I want to write. After I write, I want to read more.

Saying all of that leads me to the main point of this post. I want to share with you a quote that I have read recently. It is marked in my book and I have returned and read it several times. Actually, when I pick the book up to read again, I first turn to this page and read this quote again. I think I am trying to digest.

Ministry is when the people who hear you don't want more of you, they want more of Him because of what you have said.
When you point them to God's fire instead of trying to get attention for yourself--that's ministry.
Often our thoughts run to "what do they think of me?" when what we should be concerned with is, "what do they think of Him?"

This is from Pricilla Shirer's book, He Speaks to Me. (pg 56)

Now for those of you who are not in full-time ministry... do not excuse yourself thinking that this is not for you too. Certainly not. We are all called to be Ministers of God's Grace to our world. Our world consists of our homes (with our immediate families), our church (with our church family and in the area where we are called to work), our vocational work (with our co-workers and/or our boss), and then those that we touch as we go along (like those who wait on us at restaurants... check us out in the grocery store... help us at the mall, etc.)

Do you see what I am talking about?

Ministry. Pointing others to our Lord. In such a way that they will desire more of Him.

Ministry. Let's do it-- to the best of our ability and to the Glory of God.

As I read, I share with you.

Readers write, writers read.

Craving...

2009-08-19T22:04:00.004-05:00

The definition of CRAVE is: to ask for earnestly : beg, demand : to want greatly : need : to yearn for : to have a strong or inward desire

Strong words.

So I ask myself ... What do I crave more than anything? It is easy to say the right thing... but my actions will speak louder than my words.

I read the definition again as I think about making personal application...

The following is a short article that I wrote for The Emphasis on Moms Newsletter:

“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk,

so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,”

I Peter 2:2

I remember feeding my three babies… and now, I am watching my grandson act in just the same way. When they get old enough to realize that you are preparing their bottle or getting ready to nurse them, they become very impatient. They sometimes act as if they will “surely perish” if you do not get their milk to them NOW.

That is the picture that comes to my mind as I read this passage. Craving the milk. We are to be like the little babies. Our desire needs to be the Word of God for our very existence. We will “surely perish” if we do not have it.

So, today my encouragement for you precious moms… is to have your milk.

A good serving of it.

It will sustain you during your day. It will feed your soul. It will give you the nourishment that you need to take care of all that your busy days demand.

For the moms reading today...
I recommend signing up for this newsletter. It is packed with encouragement and help for you.

Is Facebook an Addiction?

2009-08-18T22:17:00.005-05:00

I am still having trouble getting back into the routine of blogging on a consistent basis.

It is not that I do not have things to blog about. I have several going on in this head of mine.

I think the truth of the matter is that I have spent entirely too much time on Facebook.

Now, I am not saying that I am against it or that I plan to take a break from it. No, I really am so thankful for my FB connections. It has given me the opportunity to re-connect with long lost friends. It is a wonderful way to connect with those in our present day "world." ie - church family. It is such a good way to stay connected with our REAL (flesh and blood) family.

It is simply a way to know and be known. Does that make any sense?

While I might not have the time (or actually take the time) to write a letter. I may not even have/take the time to write an email. But when I sign on my Facebook page, I can quickly see an update on the people in my life. Then I have the opportunity to respond or not. It only takes a minute. The connection is made.

Today is a good example. I had just talked to my Jonathan by IM. My heart was aching. I posted about it on my status:

once again... time with my soldier this morning on IM... makes me happy and sad... I just hate it when he says "my time is up... I have to go"
I sit and stare at the screen... and pray...

And the support/connections began. Such sweet manna to this Mother's heart. Support. Love. Prayers. None of which took much time - from me or from my fb world. But it was real. And it blessed me more than can be expressed.

So, I have no intentions to give up my Facebook.

But... I may need to limit my time there.

Winners Announced

2009-08-05T16:24:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to

Jacky at The Sweetest Petunia
won the Starbucks card.

and

Mary at Owlhaven
won the CD.

Congratulations Ladies!

Please send me your address so I can get your gifts in the mail to you!
halanddd@charter.net

Information Overload (for Me and my GPS)

2009-08-04T09:58:00.004-05:00

Do you ever find yourself talking to your electronic devices? i.e. computer, tv, gps?

I do. It is as if I think they will straighten up and work correctly with my verbal prompting.

Today I share my latest ordeal.

After the She Speaks conference on Sunday, I had the opportunity to go to and visit with my daughter and son-in-love. They only live a couple of hours away from the conference site. They also were sharing about their recent trip to Ecuador on Sunday night at their church. It was good to visit with them and hear their story about their trip.

On Monday morning, I pulled out the loyal GPS. I went to "favorites" and programed HOME. Easy enough. Two items needed when this woman is traveling alone: my cell phone and my GPS.

But before officially beginning the 8 hour drive, Julia and I were going to eat breakfast. She went ahead to order our Chick-fil-A, and I stopped at Starbucks to get our latte's. This meant that I was ignoring my sweet GPS. I knew the way to Starbucks, I knew the way to Chick-fil-A, and then I would pay attention to her directions once I was officially on my way home. And just to be honest, I am somewhat amused at her insistence when I get off route. "When possible make a U-turn". "In 600 feet, if possible, make a U-turn." And if I get off route far enough, she will start the "recalculating...".

Evidently, my sweet GPS has stored our trips. Even the off-route portions.

Evidently.

I got back in the car from Starbucks and this is the message that I was given:

MEMORY FULL

FATAL ERROR

What?

So I did what I do when my computer starts mis-behaving.... Shut down.... Restart.

MEMORY FULL

FATAL ERROR

Now what? I have already had to buy a NEW SHINY RED Blackberry on this trip. (since mine died). I have already bought a new purse on this trip, since my handle broke. I ABSOLUTELY REFUSE to call Hal and tell him that I am stopping at Best Buy to get a new GPS before I come home.

So, the discussion with the GPS begins. Seriously.

"Ok, sweetheart, I completely understand. I am in information overload too. But here is the deal. We have to get home. And I need you. So, all I want you to do is just remember the route home. That is all. We will figure out what to do with all of this information that has you overloaded when we get there and can get some rest. Surely there is a way to sort through what needs to be stored on here and what can be deleted.

I am doing the same thing, so I completely understand. I have more information in this head of mine from this weekend than I know how to handle. My plan is to get home and begin sorting through... see what I need to keep....see what I need to file away for a later time....and see what I need to delete.

But today the simple goal is to just get home... and I need your help. So will you just co-operate? Please and thank you."

Then I turned off. Un-plugged. Restart. There she was. Once again telling me how to get home.

OHHHHHHHH thank you so much...

They (who ever "they" is) say that it is ok to talk to yourself as long as you do not answer back. I wonder what "they" would say about talking to your GPS. She does answer back sometimes.

Sweet Blessings my friends...sweet blessings..

Birthday and Two Give-aways!

2009-07-24T09:35:00.003-05:00

A sweet blogging friend/preacher's wife just recently had a birthday -and offered a give-away on that day on her blog. I thought that was a WONDERFUL idea...

And then just a few days later, I received an email offering a free music CD to give away on my blog... I was SO thrilled. So, I have saved this until today.

The duo is TAL and ACACIA. I encourage you to go to this site and you can hear their music - and even download three songs for free: www.talandacacia.com/freemusic

THEN - I am also giving a $10.00 starbucks card...

So... here is the deal:

You know how we bloggers all LOVE comments - and we LOVE our followers :)...

So, this is how you enter for the give-away. (five chances) You can enter one time or you can enter 5 times...

(1). Leave a comment. Tell me if you would rather have the CD or the Starbucks card...
(2). Tell me which song you like best.
(3). Add yourself to my list of followers (and if you already follow - say so - that counts too)
(4). Add my button to your side bar.
(5). Announce this giveaway on your blog for your readers to come and enter... (make sure that you tell me that you have done so...)

So, there - you can enter this giveaway 5 times...

Happy Birthday to me! - I want you to win a prize! I will announce the winners on Monday, August 3rd.

Thank you also for your patience with me as I am having a hard time being consistent with my blog lately. Surely I will be back on track soon.

Love to you all!

Taking a Break...

2009-07-20T21:21:00.002-05:00

For the next several weeks, I will be taking a break from the "Tuesdays Together."...

Several have let me know that this summer has been hard to participate. So, just try to keep up the reading (remember the plan is posted on the sidebar under the button). Then be ready to start back up on the first week of September...

My "mister Linky" has not been working correctly for several weeks now... I think I have found another linky... I will have it working for us all by then...

Maybe the much needed break will the remedy for my "writer's block". That, along with the trip to SHE SPEAKS... :)

This is not to say that I will not be blogging at all... just not the "Tuesdays Together" for these next weeks.

Sweet Blessings to you all!

She Speaks Conference 2009

2009-07-15T14:12:00.002-05:00

I am excited about the opportunity to go back to the "She Speaks" Conference this year.

I am registered for the writing track this time.

I am battling the thoughts of 'WHAT IN THE WORLD WERE YOU THINKING?"

I am asking for your prayers. Our enemy loves to try to defeat us before we even get started.

And last but certainly not least...

I am going to try and not overpack this year...

Songs of Praise...

2009-07-13T22:20:00.000-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 28

I am so glad that you have joined us.Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from Matthew 4-7; Psalms 68-70; Proverbs 16.

Lately our three year old grandbaby has been singing.

Constantly.

About everything.

Sometimes she is singing songs that she knows and that we have sung together. Sometimes she is singing about what she is doing. And sometimes she is just making up words to sing.

I thought of her as I read this particular passage - and several other verses in the reading from Psalms this week.

Scripture tells us to sing songs of praise to our God. And this is just one of those verses:

Psalm 68:4
"Sing to God, sing praises to his name;

lift up a song to him who rides through the deserts;

his name is the LORD; exult before him!"

Now, I want to share a picture of her singing. Her Dad took this with his camera on his phone.

She is singing to her rabbit and dog. That is her little Bible in her lap... notice her little hands.... (oh and by the way - she is in her bathing suit)

... she is singing praises to His name. It is sweet music to my ears.

I just know that it is a sweet, sweet sound in HIS ears too.

I pray that she NEVER loses that song that is in her heart.

Makes me want to sing...

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

Working on Change...

2009-07-10T08:00:00.002-05:00

I am working on a new plan. I am trying to put everything together. My blog, Hal's Blog, Helping Homes, and Holding On. There is the "little" problem that I have no clue as to what I am doing... but I am trying. I will not close this one down until it is almost ready for a "go."

I just wanted you all to know why it is quiet on the home front :)

However, with that begin said - Please continue to pray for my soldier. Continuously...
And remember to wear RED on FRIDAYS in support of our troops.

A Soft Answer...

2009-07-07T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 27

I am so glad that you have joined us.Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from James 5; Psalms 62-67; Proverbs 15; and Matthew 1-3.

Some time ago, I mentioned working on Bible Verses with my Grandbaby here. And the first verse is from Proverbs 15:1.

"A soft answer turns away wrath..."

So, today I start with that verse but actually, I want us to look at several verses that are in this particular chapter. We are back on the tongue again... But let's see the comparison that is given in these verses:

From the postive side...
15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath...
15:2 The tongue of the wise commends knowledge...
15:4 A gentle tongue is a tree of life...
15:7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge...

Then look at the end of these verses...
15:1(b) but a harsh word stirs up anger (strife).
15:2(b) but the mouths of fools pour out folly.
15:4(b) but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.
15:7(b) not so with the hearts of fools. (do not spread knowledge).
15:14(b) but the mouths of fools feed on folly.

Because I have a lot on my heart and in my mind as I am writing this... I think will just let these verses speak for themselves. Other than, I will say that I desire to have a soft answer, to commend and spread knowledge, and for my words to be a tree of life.

Proverbs - really are words to live by...

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-04T08:11:00.004-05:00

Sitting here right now...

with the computer in my lap...

talking to my soldier on the other side of the world...

I am reminded once again...

that FREEDOM IS NOT FREE!

But can I say how wonderful it is to have the technology of being able to "Instant Message" with him. Hal is on one couch with his computer. I am on my couch with my computer. Julia is in Virginia with her computer. Jenifer is at her house on her computer. Jon is on his Base with his computer (I suppose at an internet cafe).

So for right now... we are all "chatting" with him... the make-up can wait. The last minute trip to the grocery store can wait. The cooking can wait.

Yes, right now, the priority is sitting right here. Talking to my soldier.

Happy Fourth of July?... you bet.

Time Management

2009-07-01T21:56:00.003-05:00

I am once again dealing in my mind and heart about my time management.

I have a lot of ideas and dreams bouncing around in this head of mine... but am having a hard time even beginning ANY of them.

I also have a few assignments that I really need to be working on... that is also not taking any form as of yet...

I am trying to figure out how to structure my day in such a way to get it all - or even any of it done.

Let's just take a couple of writing assignments for examples:
** I write a small "treasure box" for a monthly newsletter. It is due EVERY month on the first. I have been late submitting it for the last several months.
** I am going back to the She Speaks Conference again this year. I am going to be attending the writer's track this time. I have a couple of assignments to have written before I get there. I have not even started.

Then there is the Sunday School Class that I have taken:
We are studying the book of I Peter together. We have only had one lesson. I have much studying to do and much preparation to be ready to teach these college kids. I want to learn and I want them to catch the vision of really studying the Word and letting it be applicable to their lives today. I do not want to ever go to class without begin prepared. But this takes time. Much time for me.

Hal and I are already talking and thinking and praying about our ministry to families. Specifically, the opportunity to teach/lead in Marriage Conferences. We had the opportunity to lead in three last year. We are already planning on another one for the young couples at our church for January or February of 2010. We will probably will add the co-ed 3 class too. It will either be a completely different trip or we may decide to have a combination of the teaching time with different Chalets for the different age groups. We are already discussing the topics and each are beginning our study. But once again - the time issue is at hand. It takes time. (And remember the different preparation approach between us... adds an entirely different factor to be considered. You can read our different perspectives from last year - here and here and here.)

And on the note of our ministry to Couples/Families - since neither one is a professional counselor, and yet, we are "counseling" more and more couples each week... We are beginning to think that maybe God is calling us to a COACHING ministry of sort. While we are meeting with many on an on-going basis at the time, we are both sensing a burden to refine/define our approach and our goals as we help precious families to survive in this world. And then ultimately, we hope to be able to guide them into a lifestyle or homelife of THRIVING together for the Glory of God.

And then there is my ministry to the women of our church... and the studies that I teach them. And the opportunities that I have had to speak at Women's Conferences. I absolutely love my ladies... and have a heart to minister to them. Here again is an area that I have ideas and dreams in my head and heart... but need to get it refined and prepared.

Which brings me back to the issue at hand. TIME MANAGEMENT.

We all have 24 hours in our days. We have families. We have jobs. We have children (and some have grand-children). We all have lots to do. But there are those who are efficient in using their time wisely. Time invested in Eternity. That is what I desire. That is what I am seeking.

I would absolutely LOVE for you - my readers to give me some ideas. Could you tell me how you order your day. Seriously, you can comment anonymously if you would like.... just give me some ideas to chew on. (you can email me if you are not one who usually comments or if blogger is not letting you comment. That has happened alot lately - halanddd@charter.net) Share some ideas and suggestions and let me see if they will work in my world. I thank you in advance.... You are blessings to me.

(I did not even mention this ministry here on my blog - or the desire to be consistent with the family blog and the devotion blog.)

I am looking forward to hearing from you....

Taming our Tongues...

2009-06-30T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 26

I am so glad that you have joined us.Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from Hebrews 12-13; Psalms 60-61; and James 1-4.

Oh people... the Book of James. It is the proverbs of the N.T. Words to live by.
So many passages that speak to me - not just this week - but EVERY SINGLE TIME that I read it. But I will try to pick a few to talk about today...

First, I will start with James 3:5-10

So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.
How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!

And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness.

The tongue is set among our members,
staining the whole body,

setting on fire the entire course of life,
and set on fire by hell.

For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature,

can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind,

but no human being can tame the tongue.

It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.

With it we bless our Lord and Father,

and with it we curse people who are made
in the likeness of God.

From the same mouth come blessing and cursing.

My brothers, these things ought not to be so.

This is a passage that we need to examine from our own perspective and make sure that we are striving to tame this restless evil within. But that is not where I am going today...

Today, I want to ask you this question:

Have you ever been the recipient of this deadly poison? Possibly even from someone that you would consider a friend? Someone close?

If so, then you know the pain that it causes. You know the poison. The footnote in my ESV Bible says, "Evil speech destroys because it comes from Satan himself."

And even when you know where it originates (from Satan) it is hard to ignore when it comes in the form of flesh and blood. It is hard to swallow. It is hard to understand. Basically, it just hurts.

So, what do we do? And I say "we" because I am in this boat with you. I have experienced this. Not recently, but the scars from the wounds are still there.

That takes us back to another passage from this book....

James 1:19-20

Know this, my beloved brothers:

let every person be quick to hear,

slow to speak,

slow to anger;

for the anger of man

does not produce the righteousness of God.

Could that be our answer?
What do we do when we face the hurt from words spoken?

Be quick to hear...
Be slow to speak...
Be slow to anger...
Knowing that the anger that wants to rear it's ugly head in you - will not produce the righteousness of God - in you or in the offender.

Think about it with me. From both sides of the fence.

Oh, Lord, I do not want to be one who is guilty of letting my tongue be that blazing fire that has it's root from Satan and that does much damage to the body of Christ.

But also, Lord, when I am the recipient of such pain - caused by words of others... please help me to remember your Word that teaches me to be quick to hear - and slow to speak. And slow to anger.

Oh the tongue - such a small member...
Such a deadly weapon...
"My brothers, these things ought not to be so."

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

WW # 20 Deployment Again

2009-06-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Here we go again....
(see my previous post)

Laughing and Aching

2009-06-22T21:50:00.005-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 25

I am so glad that you have joined us.Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from Hebrews 7 - 11; Psalms 58- 59; Proverbs 14.

My verse for this week is:

Proverbs 14:13
"Even in laughter the heart may ache... "

I have had the two grandbabies with me today. I have indeed laughed. I have played with play-dough (homemade, I might add). I have read books. I have rocked and fixed bottles and cuddled and fed. I have giggled till my sides hurt. It really has been a good day.

But all day my heart ached.

The days of deployment begin.

Again.

And I guess this verse explains the emotions well. Life continues here in the states and we will have days that are filled with laughter...

But there is never a moment that the reality of a son at war leaves my mind. Nor my heart. And it really does ache.

The blackberry literally does not leave my hand in hopes of hearing from him. Psalm 91 and many other verses are prayed for him continually. I am one who watches the news - all of it. I am a member of a board of Military moms/wives/sisters and I visit with them daily.

And I also visit a web page that posts the injuries and casualities of the war. I did this every day during the last deployment. Not that I am looking to see if something has happened to my Jonathan. No, when I found this site... I was prompted to pray for these families. The reality of WAR means that some will give their very lives for our freedoms. And these families and soldiers have made the greatest sacrifice. They need our prayers.

Like I have said before... A son at war makes me believe what I have always said that I believe. I know that Jonathan is in God's hands. I know. I know. I know. And I hold on to that truth.

So once again we begin the days that are filled with laughter ... AND an aching heart.

War is real.

Freedom is not free.

Trust me.

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

The Only Real Peace...

2009-06-16T00:01:00.000-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). # 24

I am so glad that you have joined us.Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from Hebrews 1-6; Psalms 56-57.

Once again the passages this week applied to our present situations.

Ps 56:8

"You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle.

Are they not in your book?"

Such sweet comfort to know that He sees our tears...He knows the hurts of our hearts. And he records them. He knows...

Ps 57:2

"I cry out to God Most High,

to God who fulfills his purpose for me....

(3b) God will send out His steadfast
love and His faithfulness."

And even as I cry out to God, I can know that He is fulfilling HIS PURPOSE for me ...

But not just for me but also for my sweet Julia and Ronnie as they go through their miscarriage of their first baby... for my Jonathan and Brantley as they go through another deployment.

God wraps us in His love and His faithfulness

Ps 57:9-10

"I will give thanks to you O Lord,

among the peoples;

I will sing praises to You among the nations.

For Your steadfast love is great to the heavens,

Your faithfulness to the clouds."

So, my response is still to be thankfulness. Praise. His love is great. He is faithful to us.

And that my friend gives me peace. Peace in the storm.

Years ago a precious friend sang this old gospel song:

The Only Real Peace that I have, dear Lord, is in You,

The Only Real Peace that I have, dear Lord is in You.

With all life's frustrations, I need You, I know I do..

And the only real Peace that I have dear Lord is in You.

And last but certainly not least...

I just had to add Hebrews 4:14-16 too. We DO have a great High Priest, who is able to sympathise with our weaknesses... and we can approach His throne of Grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Going to the throne... cause I NEED a good dose of HIS Mercy and Grace.

Going to the throne...

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

I will Praise You in this Storm

2009-06-10T21:34:00.003-05:00

Our precious friends, Rick and Carolyn, sang this song on Sunday. They may not know it - but it was just for me...

I wept as I listened...
Just as I am now...
I wish I had a video of them singing... but for this post I will share this video from Casting Crowns.
We are praising Him in this storm...

Tuesdays Together (#23)

2009-06-09T00:01:00.002-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD).

I am so glad that you have joined us.Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

I am not able to blog today.... lots going on in my family.

I will catch up with you all next week with more information.

But I wanted to make sure that you had the link in order to be able to share together.

I do appreciate all the love and prayers that have been shared with us lately. It really means so much...

So... I will enjoy reading your posts and will be back next week.

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

Guest Post at "Becoming Me"

2009-06-04T09:18:00.002-05:00

Hey Friends...

Today I have a guest post at "Becoming Me"

Please go and visit with me there. If you are not familiar with Angela... you will enjoy visiting her blog. Add her button to your side bar...

Without the Blood, there can be no life...

2009-06-02T22:07:00.005-05:00

That is the title of Julia's post today....

Once again.... She has told their story well. Thank you so much for those who have gone and given support to them. And I know that others of you have been praying. Thank you so much!

Holding on...

but my heart aches.

Tuesdays Together (#22)

2009-06-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

First, I want to thank you readers for the prayers for my daughter/son-in-love and precious grandbaby. They go back to the doctor Tuesday afternoon. We will post an update for you all.

Which brings me to my particular passages to share this week...

Ephesians
1:15-21

For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord
Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.

It is times like these that you hold on to the truth that His Grace is Sufficient. But that does not mean that there is not pain or hurt. I long to be there with my daughter during this time. Yet, I wait.

Wait till the doctor's appointment today.

Wait for the update.

Wait.

And as I talk to her (daily) and as I read her words in her blog, I am filled with thanksgiving....

...for their faith and their love

...for their wisdom and knowledge of Him

...that the eyes of their hearts are enlightened

...that they know the hope to which He has called them

I join them in knowing that He is working for them with the same power that it took to raise Jesus from the dead.

I also join them in saying, "I know my God is able... but if not, we will still praise Him."

I will be honest and tell you that this momma is sitting on ready to get in the car and head to Virginia... but for today, I wait.

Pray-ers Needed...

2009-05-29T13:31:00.002-05:00

I could tell you what all is happening - but our daughter says it well on her blog. Could you go and visit here... and let her know of your prayers.

Thanks so much!
You all are blessings to me!

Tuesdays Together (#21)

2009-05-26T00:01:00.005-05:00

Philippians 4:4-7
Rejoice in the Lord always;
again I will say, Rejoice.
Let your reasonableness be known to everyone.
The Lord is at hand;
do not be anxious about anything,
but in everything by prayer and supplication
with thanksgiving let your
requests be made known to God.
And the peace of God,
which surpasses all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your
minds in Christ Jesus.

We begin here with the command to Rejoice in the Lord...

And then verse 6 is a very familiar verse for us all: "Do NOT be anxious about anything," I really think a key word here is ANYTHING. We are not to be anxious about anything. You fill in the blank. Your anything... don't be anxious about it. Period.

Then as we move on in the passage, we see the how - to. We are to pray and with THANKSGIVING give our requests to our God. And the result of doing so? THE PEACE OF GOD - which surpasses all understanding will guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus.

There are many things in our world that can make us anxious. Just watch the news - for a few minutes. There is the crime in our own particular state or county or city. There are new threats from Korea. Then there are those of us who have soldiers currently serving... news daily about Iraq or Iran or Afghanistan or Pakistan. And what about the economy? Could you be anxious about that? Your IRA (or lack thereof?). The recession that could easily become a depression. Jobs or no jobs? Children who may be making wrong decisions. And the list could go on and on and on. That is what is meant by anything. We are not to be anxious about ANYTHING.

A time to take it to the alter and leave it there - with thanksgiving - I remind you. And see what our anxious thoughts are replaced with... PEACE. Peace. Real peace.

I needed this passage this week. I am writing this on Monday night. Memorial Day. I needed it today. It was a good day. A good lunch. And then taking Aubrey for her first swim of the season. Such fun. Hal and I got flowers planted... :) And even had our Monday evening "Starbucks" time.

But my heart was heavy. You see last year on Memorial day, we were at the lake with our family rejoicing that Jonathan was at home from war. Such a sweet memory. This year the dull ache is back. And I must say it is too soon for me. Today that is my "anything".

So, I needed this passage... I must take my anxious thoughts... straight to my Father. And leave it there.... with thanksgiving. And let Him wrap me up with His Peace. Oh, God, I want Your peace to guard my heart and my mind. Peace...

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

Tuesdays Together (#20)

2009-05-19T00:01:00.001-05:00

I Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be joyful always;

pray continually;

give thanks in all circumstances,

for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

When our children were little, we would have a "theme" verse (or passage) for each summer. Of course it would be put to memory... but also we would refer back to it for reference/ encouragement/ meditation together. This was the passage one year.

I would ask, " Are you being joyful?". "Have you prayed about that?" "Is that a thankful attitude?" You get my point. And I felt good that I was really teaching the children to apply scripture to their lives.

It took on new meaning a few years later.

You see, the first year of homeschooling was terrifying to me. I felt so inadequate. I had no support group. I did not know ANYONE who had traveled this road. And I nearly killed us all.

But I remember one day, walking down the road behind our house praying about MY attitude and my fears and wondering if there was ANY way that this could possibly be God's will for our lives.

I would tell you that I was crying, but that would not be accurate. I was sobbing. Uncontrollably.

And God reminded me of this passage that had been our "theme passage" a couple of years previous.

And in the still small voice that spoke so loudly... I was reminded that it was God's will for me to be thankful in all things. I may not know other things about God's will for me, for my children, for our family, for our schooling. But this one truth was written for me in black and white.

"in EVERYthing give thanks, for this IS THE WILL OF GOD in Christ Jesus concerning you."

I had not been thankful for this opportunity to teach my children. I had been focusing on the fears, the work, the change...

So, what did I do? I began each day (for weeks) praying this prayer...
"Dear Lord, by choice of my will, I choose to thank you for this opportunity to teach my children. And I trust you to change my emotions." And literally it tooks a few weeks, for the emotions to begin changing... but as I was obedient in being thankful ... I began to view the role as a wonderful opportunity rather than a dreaded responsibility. God changed my heart. But I had to begin by being obedient and choosing to thank Him.

I learned a big lesson that year. Not only about our homeschooling experience...but also about God's will in my life. And even when I have questions.... I can know one thing... I am to be thankful. And as I told my children numerous time in their lives... Obedience always brings blessings.

So, can you apply this to any area of your life? Maybe have questions about what is or is not God's will? One thing I hope you will remember... it IS God' will for you to thank Him. This my friend is written in black and white.

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us. Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

Speechless...Wordless...

2009-05-13T15:13:00.003-05:00

Jon loaded the bus this morning...

Hal has a short blog here...

Jen has a pic here...
(if you click on her picture - it enlarges - and you can get a small glimpse of the emotion... )

We all HAD it...

We all HAVE it...

Overflowing...

I will try to express more later.

Tuesdays Together (#19)

2009-05-11T21:35:00.007-05:00

Galatians 6:2
"Bear one another's burdens,
and so fulfill the law of Christ."

I just want to take this time to tell you all thank you so much for bearing my burden with me during these heavy days. Many of you - my internet chums (I picked up that term from Lynnette) have prayed, and emailed, and messaged on FB. And it has really meant so much to me.

Then those of you who I know in the flesh :) - have hugged, cried, prayed, emailed, and messaged on FB. And it all has meant so much to me also.

So today, as we travel to visit with our Son and Daughter-in-love...

and then as we watch him load his bus on Wednesday...

We will wave. We will cry. We will wave our flags. We will blow kisses. We will take pictures. We will watch as long as we can see the bus travel down the road with our arms waving...

Then we will get in our cars and drive home. A long quiet drive home...

I know already that you will be praying. Today and tomorrow. Bearing my burden. All I can say is thank you. As you help bear my burden ... you are fulfilling the law of Christ. You are loving your neighbor (or friend - or blogging bud) as you love yourself. You are trying to put yourself in my shoes... and praying for me.

I need it ... and I feel it. Your words/comments bless me and wrap the Love of Christ around me! Thank you so much!

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us.

Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

P.S. Hal has posted a blog about departure too. You too can help bear his burden. Visit with him here... and maybe leave him a comment too. Thanks!

Mother's Day Meme

2009-05-08T00:01:00.000-05:00

Angie at The Knightly News is hosting this meme for Mother's day...

Since it is such a busy weekend - I want to share with you about my MOM from my post last year... and then see pics and updates on her Cancer from earlier this year here.

I hope that the other moms that read will join in ... link to Angie's blog so we can all visit together during this next week.

Being a mom is a high calling. I am blessed to have a Godly Mom... and I am blessed to be a Mom.

Look forward to visiting with you all!
Sweet Blessings...

A Baby and A Warrior...

2009-05-07T10:28:00.007-05:00

Emotional. That is the only way to describe me today.

I just finished rocking and feeding my 2 month old grandson.

But my mind and heart was in Cleburne, Texas. 27 years ago. Rocking and feeding my 3 month old son.

It really was just yesterday.

This morning my son left to start the preparations for deployment. He has 3 Days at Drill. Then gets to come home for Mother's Day. Then a few days at his Unit before leaving state. One month (or so) before the flight overseas. My heart aches.

Oh, I have been here before in this particular mixture of emotions. (You can see my previous post on the last deployment here.) On one hand.... I am SO proud of him. For his willingness to serve our country. I am so thankful for what God has done in his life and what he has been brought THROUGH. But I am reminded of the saying, "Freedom isn't Free."

Then on the other hand, I am so sad for him to leave. Like I said last time... a year is short on the other side of it. But when you are facing a year knowing that your son is going to war... it is a long time.

Oh, you all know me. My faith is still strong. I know he is in God's hands. I believe I previously worded it this way: Times like this make me believe what I say I believe.

But I don't even have to tell you that my emotions are weak. And once again, the blackberry is glued to my hand.

So, I come back to the present in the mix of emotions and praying... back and forth between these two... a son facing war... and a grandson facing life.

I pray constantly for the son and his precious wife and all that this next year will hold for them.

I pray for the little one in my arms today. Where will he be in 27 years? What will he be doing?
Only God knows... but one thing I do know for certain...

It will be here tomorrow.

Tuesdays Together (#18)

2009-05-05T00:01:00.003-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). I am so glad that you have joined us.

Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from 2Peter 3, Psalms 39-41, Proverbs 10, Galatians 1-3

In the midst of this week, with all that it held for our family... I was able to talk. Just not normal. And it was an effort to talk. So, I thought about what I wanted to say before I said it. Since it was such work.... I intentionally made the words count. Does that make any sense at all?

And I have to admit - that many times I did not say anything, just because it was not easy. Which means that I also had a lot more time to think - even in the midst of an extremely busy weekend. An extremely emotional weekend. More about that later.

Here is the passage I share with you today:

Psalm 39: 4-5

O LORD, make me know my end

and what is the measure of my days;

let me know how fleeting I am!

Behold, you have made my days

a few handbreadths,

and my lifetime is as nothing before you.

Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath!

So, during my quiet moments... whether in a crowd or not. I have been thinking about my life. My days. I am 50 years old. Life is fleeting... a few handbreaths. I want my life to count for the Lord. What is the measure of my days?

This goes along with my previous post about pruning. I want to be pruned. Because the end result of pruning, is more fruit is produced. There are many things that can really consume my time and energy that will keep me from doing the "best" things. Many things can keep me from becoming all that God wants me to be. Many things will keep me from doing all that God wants me to do. I am seeking to be sensitive to the Spirit as He speaks to me about each area.

I have edited this post several times to take out the "our" and the "we". This is about me. If it applies to you... you will have to make the application.

Do I dare even try to list a few? This is not to say that any of these things are bad... just that they have the potential of pulling me away from the best. (I almost said "us")

Computer time...Television... Books...Friends... and the list could go on... but you get the idea.

If I truly want to be mindful of my days, and how fleeting they are... I need to examine how EACH day is spent. I need to evaluate. I need to prioritize. I need to pray.

And I intend to...

Once again I say... "Speak Lord, for your servant listens!"

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us.

Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

Quiet...

2009-05-01T00:01:00.002-05:00

My voice problem --Update -- Better but not well yet.

What a precious time sitting at HIS feet on Wednesday. Really desiring to listen. Hearing the still small voice of My Savior speaking directly to me.

As I sat back in my chair, praying... I even said, "Do I dare ask You to keep my voice till I hear what You are saying to me?" Or maybe I should say, "Lord, help me to hear you, even when I can speak!" Regardless, the prayer of my heart is to hear Him. Really Hear Him.

And then to follow...where He leads...

I have been reading "The Secrets of the Vine" again. And to be perfectly honest, I truly believe this is a time of pruning for me. For Hal. For our ministry together.

I do not have all my thoughts clear on this subject yet. But I know that God is dealing with me about several different issues here.

I am sure that I will share more in the days to come about this journey.

So... what are you dealing with lately? Anyone care to share?

2009 Scripture Memory # 7 and # 8

2009-04-30T00:01:00.002-05:00

Continuing with Psalm 91...here are the next verses:

Psalm 91:5, 6
"You will not fear the terror of the night,
nor the arrow that flies by day,
nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness,
nor the destruction that wastes at noonday."

Psalm 91:7
"A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you."

When we went to the Family Readiness Group Meeting last month, we were given a free book. The title is "Psalm 91 -God's Shield of Protection." How neat is that? I am sure that I will have thoughts to share with you from it in the days ahead as I continue to memorize this chapter.

I am still catching up on these posts. Maybe in May I will get back on track. (even though I already have a post for tomorrow... oh well... I will try for the 2nd)

Regardless, I covet your prayers for the coming days. They will be hard. I know that God gives comfort. I am counting on it... I honestly do not know how those who do not know our Savior face such days. I do not.

I am Listening...

2009-04-29T10:10:00.004-05:00

Following my previous post I just had to update you today.

I have laryngitis. "No More Words."

I think I will listen today, like I ended my post yesterday.

"Speak Lord, for your servant listens."

I really think our Lord has a wonderful sense of humor.

Tuesdays Together (#17)

2009-04-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

II Peter 1:16-18

We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we
told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.

This account is also recorded in Matthew 17:5, Mark 9:7, and Luke 9:35. In each of these passages, we are told God said, "This is my son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. LISTEN TO HIM!"

Listen to Him.

I can only imagine what it would have been like to be there on the Mount with Christ... Eye witnesses of His Majesty. And what happens? Peter starts talking... planning... (imagine that????)

The Voice of God is heard... Do you know who this is? It is my Son. I love Him and I am pleased with Him. Will you just quit talking and Listen to HIM?

Maybe it is often the same way with us in our prayer/study times. We get so busy talking that we do not take the time to listen. Often we even try to tell God how to handle situations. Like He needs our ideas. I wonder how often He speaks to us and says, "Will you just quit talking for a while and listen?"

A few days ago, while keeping our almost 3 year old granddaughter, it was getting late and she really needed to go to bed. I have learned to give a little warning that her play time is almost up and that soon we will be going upstairs.

I was telling her, "Aubrey, it is almost time to go and put our pajamas on and read our books and sing our songs and go to bed."

"Ok?"

"Aubrey, did you hear MommaDee?"

"Aubrey, you have just a few more minutes...."

She turned around from playing... walked halfway across the room, put her little hands up (like to motion stop) and very politely but firmly said to me, "No More Words".

What?

I think she just told me to hush - it was polite but the message was there. Hush. No. More. Words. She then returned to her play...

NO MORE WORDS....

I have been thinking about this alot lately when I have sat to read the Word of God and pray. I really believe I need to quit talking so much... and listen. Realize that I am in the presence of the Great I AM... Maybe I just need some time with NO MORE WORDS.

...Oh....from the mouth of babes...

"Speak Lord, for your servant listens."

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us.

Also, please post a link back here so that others can come and read the other Tuesdays Together posts. You can use the button on the side bar if you would like.

WW # 19 Joyful Noise

2009-04-21T23:10:00.003-05:00

(the little one in the purple is our Aubrey... with her friends, Piper and Ainslee)

I love the house being filled with praise... and joyful noise :)

Psalm 100
Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands...

Cardboard Ministry Video

2009-04-20T22:21:00.011-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD). I am so glad that you have joined us.

Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from Mark 12-16. Psalm 37, I Peter 1.

(If you are reading something else - that is perfectly fine... just share with us.)

Actually, today I am coming from a totally different passage. I have read all of the reading for this week. But as I was praying about what passage/verse that I was to share about... I received word that the video from our Sunday Service was now posted on you -tube. I immediately watched it and wept again. I knew that this was what I was to share with you today. The song that is being sung comes from Revelation 12:11.

They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb

and the word of their testimony...

Our enemy would love for us to continue to be beaten down, trapped, discouraged, defeated, powerless, afraid, guilt-ridden, full of shame, sick, disheartened... unuseful for Kingdom Work.

But Praise be to God... By the Blood of the Lamb and by the Word of our Testimony... We can be overcomers. We can be healed. We can be restored. We can be forgiven.

Cardboard Ministry.

Merely a visual of God's healing, redemptive work in the individual lives of this particular body of believers.

And already we have received word from many others, who have shared that they could have/should have been up there too.

It is almost 10 minutes in length... but I promise you will be blessed as you see real people give real testimony of what our Lord has done in their lives.

I just keep thinking about a verse that we claimed for our son during his "yuk-years" as he calls them...

Joel 2:25

"I will restore or replace for you
the years that the locust has eaten..."

It has happened in our lives...

It has happened in each of these lives...

I am sure it has happened in a lot of your lives too....

Leave a comment and let me know how... (you can comment anonymous if you would like).

Let's have a sharing time...

And of course, if you have a blog - link with us... we would love to visit with you today too.

Cardboard Ministry

2009-04-19T15:05:00.007-05:00

We had a Disciple Now weekend at our church this weekend. It was good for our teens... and expect to hear even more in the days and weeks ahead.

It was good for me too... in that my Julia and Ronnie came here from VA to help with it - so this mom was able to have all the fam in the same city for this weekend. We did not get to spend much time with them - because they were with the kids... but that is completely ok. Loved seeing them for a short while - and also loved knowing that they were ministering to our kids. That is a "No Greater Joy Moment".

But mainly this post is about the end of the service today at our church. We finished the service with a song by the Youth Praise Team (which was AWESOME)... and any who wanted to participate in the Cardboard Ministry.

It is a visual of where you have been - and what God has done in your life.

It was amazing....

I am going to share a few pics today... and when we get the video, I plan to show it to you too. But just to be honest... I did not want to wait on it. I WILL share it with you when I get it.

You can go to You Tube and see examples of others who have done so... but I must say it was so moving to have OUR people... share. I dare say there was not a dry eye in the house. People broke out in applause... and tears.

In the audience... and on the stage. Tears of Joy. Tears of relief. Tears of Praise. Probably tears of relating... Applause of support and love and acceptance!

I praise the Lord for His Sweet Spirit and the freedom in our church for Him to move.

Praise the Lord for people willing to share by the word of their testimony.

Overcomers.... by the Blood of the Lamb!!!

P.S. Just found out that Michelle and Tricia have posted blogs about today also. Visit with them too! I will add links to others if more are posted. You can tell we all were blessed!

WW # 18 Egg Hunt

2009-04-14T22:13:00.005-05:00

I know there is one here somewhere :)

Tuesdays Together (#15)

2009-04-14T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to TUESDAYS TOGETHER (in the WORD).

I am so glad that you have joined us.Our goal/purpose is that we are reading God's Word and we are sharing with each other a "nugget" of what we are learning. Join with us - at any time. We welcome your comments and/or your thoughts of what you have read and/or your link to your blog post. You do not have to be a "blogger" to join in on the encouragement and sharing together.

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from Proverbs 9, Psalm 36, Mark 7-11. (If you are reading something else - that is perfectly fine... just share with us.)

As I mentioned in this blog post from our Helping Homes Blog a few months ago... I am also reading in a Bible that will one day be my granddaughter's. I purposely bought a wide margin Bible so that I could write notes to her along with prayers that I am praying for her. I plan to do so with all of my grandchildren. This is another reading plan other than the one for our Tuesday's Together. How interesting that this week, part of my reading was the same in both plans.

So, I share with you the verse that has jumped off the page to me... twice.

It is the passage from Mark 10 about the rich young ruler. Specifically from verse 21.

And Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him,
"You lack one thing:
go, sell all that you have and give to the poor,
and you will have treasure in heaven;
and come follow me."

This is the part that I am not sure I have ever thought about before... Jesus looking at him.... LOVED him.

And this is the note that I have written in the margin of Aubrey's bible:

"Look at this Aubrey, isn't it precious that when our Savior looks at us - He loves us - even when he knows the condition of our heart. Always remember that. How much HE loves you - and also, how much I love you."

And that is my thought for you today too.... Even though Jesus knew that this young man would walk away and not follow him (because of his great wealth)... He loved him. His love was not conditional... And the same is true for us.
He looks at us and He loves us.
He loves us.
He loves us.

Really it can be hard for our earthly minds and hearts to completely understand such love, huh?

But how wonderful.

I have had several songs posted from u tube lately.. and that really is unusual for me - but I have been singing this song... and wanted to share it with any of you have time to listen to it today. Maybe you will be singing it along with me all day.

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us.

That's MY KING!

2009-04-12T22:47:00.004-05:00

What a wonderful Easter Celebration we had...

We had two services this morning at our church. This was the first time for us. Our choir and praise team were real ministers through music today. The praise team had to be there at 6:45, and the choir came at 7:30. Ready to lead the body in worship at the 8:00 service, and then again at the 10:15 service.

Good music, Sweet Spirit, Wonderful Message from God's Word... and then the most precious part... four people made decisions for salvation and following the Lord in Believer's Baptism.

Can I just say GLORY? !!!

It just doesn't get much better than that.

And then....
The family gathers at our home for a wonderful meal together...
Of course we have to take family photos in the front yard...
And then this year we added the fun of hiding eggs with Aubrey ( a very short session I might add). She really liked making bubbles and chasing them much more than finding eggs. :)

And after they all go to their homes - or to other family gatherings...
I was able to take a "God Ordained" Sunday afternoon nap.

Blessed... Beyond Measure...

So following the video about Good Friday...

I just had to add this one .... I hope you enjoy :)

IT'S FRIDAY.... BUT SUNDAY IS COMING!

2009-04-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

Like I posted last year we always had a Galilean Meal on Friday morning...
I miss it. Maybe when the Grandbabies get old enough... they can spend the night with me on Thursday ...... and we can have fish on Friday morning. (unless they have it at their house).

Regardless.... I think it is good for us to reflect on the sacrifice that Christ Jesus made for us. He paid the price for our sin. It is Friday....

Oh... but we know the rest of the story. SUNDAY IS COMING!!!

Have a blessed Easter...celebrating our Risen Lord!

Plans for My Blogs

2009-04-08T23:22:00.000-05:00

During our time away, I decided to make some divisions in the way that I handle my blogs. This "No Greater Joy" Blog will be for our personal lives. I will post pictures – I will let you in on the lives of Hal and DeeDee and our families: Our walk/Our joys/Our struggles/Our daily life.

I am saying “our” – but in reality, I guess I really mean - mine. I am the writer. It will be from my perspective. Hal has his own blog - you can read from him at Gripped by Grace. Also, since I know how life can be - this will be my primary blog... where you will find me the most.

I have been working on new layouts for these next two... make sure you check them out and tell me what you think :) The wonderful part - is they were FREE.

Together we will work on the "Helping Homes" Blog. This will be from both of us. We have a burden for the family in general today. This is a small way that we hope we can be of help/support/encouragement for you and your family. By doing so together, we can address different issues from both perspectives. Husbands and wives. Fathers and Mothers (and grandparents too). Men and Women. We hope that you will join us on some discussions. Let us know if you have questions. Let us know how you feel about what we are addressing. We are trying to decide if/when we will start the chats again.

Then there is the "Holding On" devotional Blog. This began as a blog for several ladies to do together. But with life being as busy as it is – this has been hard to maintain. They all have their own blogs and you will be able to see what God is doing in their lives from their particular blogs. I have decided to use this blog as my own devotional blog. I plan to use it as a means to share with you what I am learning from God’s word. (They may still send me a post along the way – maybe…hopefully) I am no theologian. There are many means where you can go to get theological discussions and teaching. But I will share with you as I learn or should I say... try to learn from God’s Word. And now with Jonathan's coming deployment... I am sure that I will be "holding on" during this journey AGAIN.

I desire to hold to the truth of God’s Word in all of my life. “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me His own… I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus… Only let us hold true to what we have attained.” (Phillippians 3:12, 14, 16.) I hope to be able to share this part of my journey with you. I am HOLDING ON.

So, join me
As I have “NO GREATER JOY”
As we “HELP HOMES" to Survive and Thrive in this world”
As I “HOLD ON” to the truth of God’s Word.

Tuesdays Together (#14)

2009-04-07T00:01:00.001-05:00

This week our reading (as posted on the sidebar under the button) was from Psalm 34-35, Mark 1-6. (If you are reading something else - that is perfectly fine... share with us.)

Psalm 34:1-3

I will bless the LORD at all times;

his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

My soul makes its boast in the LORD;

let the humble hear and be glad.

Oh, magnify the LORD with me,

and let us exalt his name together!

That is how we are to LIVE. at. all. times.

What a wonderful reminder to us. It makes me think of two other verses also.....

"In EVERY THING give thanks for this is the will of God
in Christ Jesus concerning you."
I Thessalonians 5:18
and
"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him,
and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy
and I will give thanks to him in song."
Psalm 28:7

So, let's apply these verses to our hearts and our tongue this week together. Let's bless the Lord, let's praise him continually... let us boast in him (sorta takes the eyes off of the SELF huh?) Let us magnify Him and exalt Him together.

If we do so... it will be apparent to all who come in contact with us. And what a wonderful week for His praise to be on our lips continually... We have so much to be thankful for and to Praise His Name!

Now, your turn.

Remember... leave a comment... share your thoughts... and if you blog - link with us.