Everything to Me aka Puff's Pocket

I Love You Every Minute of Every Day, My Beautiful Daughter

2010-01-31T11:37:00.002-06:00

I looked at you today and saw the same beautiful eyes that looked at me with love when you were a baby.

I looked at you today and saw the same beautiful mouth that made me cry when you first smiled at me when you were a baby.

It was not so long ago that I held you in my arms long after you fell asleep and I just kept rocking you all night long.

I looked at you today and saw my beautiful daughter no longer a baby but a beautiful person with a full range of emotions, feelings, ideas and goals.

Everyday is exciting as I continue to watch you grow. I want you to always know that in good and bad times I will love you and no matter what you do or how you think or what you say you can depend on my support, guidance, friendship and love every minute of every day I love being your mother.
By:Susan Polis Schutz

The Cowboy Boots

2010-01-27T09:59:00.003-06:00

Thought this was cute and wanted to share. Hope you like it or at least it makes you smile!

The Cowboy Boots

Did you hear about the Texas teacher who was helping one of her kindergarten
students put on his cowboy boots?

He asked for help and she could see why.

Even with her pulling and him pushing, the little boots still didn't want to go on.
By the time they got the second boot on, she had worked up a sweat.

She almost cried when the little boy said, 'Teacher, they're on the wrong feet.' She
looked, and sure enough, they were. It wasn't any easier pulling the boots off than
it was putting them on. She managed to keep her cool as together they worked to get
the boots back on, this time on the right feet.

He then announced, 'These aren't my boots.'

She bit her tongue rather than get right in his face and scream, 'Why didn't you say
so?' like she wanted to. Once again, she struggled to help him pull the ill-fitting
boots off his little feet. No sooner had they gotten the boots off when he said,
'They're my brother's boots. My mom made me wear 'em.'

Now she didn't know if she should laugh or cry. But she mustered up what grace and
courage she had left to wrestle the boots on his little feet again.

Helping him into his coat, she asked, 'Now, where are your mittens?'

He said, 'I stuffed 'em in the toes of my boots.'

She will be eligible for parole in three years!

I know it has been a while...Life in my world has been crazy. I do miss everyone and hope all is well with you. Hopefully, soon I will be by your place for a visit.

Hurry Home

2009-09-19T11:03:00.004-05:00

Love this song!
Chorus
It doesn't matter what you've done I still love you. It doesn't matter where you've been you can still come home. And Honey if it's you, we've got a lot making up to do. And I can't hug you on the phone SO HURRY HOME.

For More Sing My Soul Saturday visit Amy.

Wash Day

2009-09-14T06:12:00.001-05:00

Wash Day...........

What a world it would be if even only 80% would do this.....

Monday
Wash Day
Lord, help me wash away all my selfishness
and vanity, so I may serve you with perfect
humility through the week ahead.

Tuesday
Ironing Day
Dear Lord, help me iron out all the wrinkles of
prejudice I have collected though the years so
that I may see the beauty in others.

Wednesday
Mending Day
O God, help me mend my ways so I will not
set a bad example for others.

Thursday
Cleaning Day
Lord Jesus, help me to dust out all the many faults
I have been hiding in the secret corners of my heart.

Friday
Shopping Day
O God, give me the grace to shop wisely so I
may purchase eternal happiness for
myself and all others in need of love.

Saturday
Cooking Day
Help me, my Savior, to brew a big kettle of brotherly love
and serve it with clean, sweet bread of human kindness.

Sunday
The Lord's Day
O God, I have prepared my house for you.
Please come into my heart so I may spend
the day and the rest of my life in your presence.

Wash Day by Pam Tatum Dobbs from Heart of a Woman FB

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

2009-09-07T14:45:00.000-05:00

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

Wishing to encourage her young son's progress on the piano, a mother took her boy to a Paderewski concert. After they were seated, the mother spotted an old friend in the audience and walked down the aisle to greet her.

Seizing the opportunity to explore the wonders of the concert hall, the little boy rose and eventually explored his way through a door marked "NO ADMITTANCE."

When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the mother returned to her seat and discovered that the child was missing Suddenly, the curtains parted and spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage.

In horror, the mother saw her little boy sitting at the keyboard, innocently picking out "Twinkle,Twinkle Little Star."

At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano, and whispered in the boy's ear, "Don't quit.""Keep playing."

Then, leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in a bass part. Soon his right arm reached around to the other side of the child, and he added a running obbligato.

Together, the old master and the young novice transformed what could have been a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience.

The audience was so mesmerized that they couldn't recall what else the great master played. Only the classic, " Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star."

Perhaps that's the way it is with God. What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy. We try our best, but the results aren't always graceful flowing music. However, with the hand of the Master, our life's work can truly be beautiful.

The next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully. You may hear the voice of the Master, whispering in your ear, "Don't quit." "Keep playing."

May you feel His arms around you and know that His hands are there, helping you turn your feeble attempts into true masterpieces.

Remember, God doesn't seem to call the equipped, rather, He equips the 'called.' Life is more accurately measured by the lives you touch than by the things you acquire. So touch someone by passing this little message along.

May God bless you and be with you always!

This was sent to me in an email. I know that you have probably heard this several times, but I thought I would share. Pray that you are blessed by it.

What's in a Name

2009-09-05T13:06:00.002-05:00

This really spoke to me and I wanted to share with you.

What's in a Name
by Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth

"Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain" (1 Chronicles 4:10 NIV).

Most likely you have heard about one man's little prayer tucked in 1 Chronicles 4. His name is Jabez, and his name means "pain." I don't know if it was a lapse in judgment or just plain meanness, but when Jabez was born, his momma was not a happy woman. She bore this boy in pain and wanted to make sure he never forgot it. So, she named him...Pain. All his life, Jabez had to live under the cloud that he had caused his mother great pain.

Maybe you have echoes in your memory of your mother reminding you that you were a pain. "You are such a pain." "You cause me pain." "You are a bother." "I sacrificed so much for you and you don't even appreciate it." But you know what? Even if someone has made you feel like you were a royal pain,that does not make it true. God would beg to differ. He absolutely adores you. He loves you so much that He even gave His only Son so that you could spend eternity with Him. We don't do that for people who are a pain. On the contrary, we don't want to spend a minute with them...much less an eternity.

Let's go back to Jabez for a moment. What did he do about the name he had been given? He prayed. He decided he was not going to let someone's estimation of him or the label his mother had placed on him, rule him for the rest of his life. Jabez cried out to God. "Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain."

1 Chronicles 4:9 tells us that Jabez was honorable - more honorable than all his brothers. This was not a self-seeking prayer. He just wanted to be free of the label that had been slapped on him by his momma, and be loved by the God who could slap a blessing on his heart.

Perhaps you need to renounce a few names that have plagued you for years...
"You're no good."
"You're not a good daughter."
"You're irresponsible."
"You don't care about anybody but yourself."
"You're just like your father."
"You're so selfish."

Visualize whatever label you've allowed, to be written on a name tag. Now, visualize Jesus walking up to you and pulling that name tag off your chest, crumpling it up, and throwing it in the trash.

Now visualize Jesus picking up a permanent marker and writing your new name on your heart.
"New creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13)
Light of the world (Matthew 5:14)
Child of God (John 1:12)
Righteous and holy (Ephesians 4:24)

That's who you really are - and don't let anyone tell you any different!

Oh, and what of Jabez's request? "And God granted him what he requested" (1 Chronicles 4:10).

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, Thank You for giving me a new name! I pray that I will no longer remember the names that I have been called in the past. This one thing I do...forgetting what lies behind and pressing forward to what lies ahead. I run the race with a new name...the one that you have given me...dearly loved precious child.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Sing My Soul Saturday

2009-08-15T12:01:00.002-05:00

HOSANA
I am sure you have heard this song before. If not, it is an awesome song. Close your eyes and let the words speak to you. The group singing is from my church Calera Baptist Church. I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

For more great music visit Amy for Sing My Soul Saturday!

Your Grace is Enough

2009-07-21T08:34:00.000-05:00

Clay Balls

2009-06-30T08:48:00.002-05:00

A man was exploring caves by the Seashore. In one of the caves he found a canvas bag with a bunch of harden clay balls. It was like someone had rolled clay balls and left them in the sun to bake. They didn't look like much, but they intrigued the man, so he took the bag out of the cave with him. As he strolled along the beach, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into the ocean as far as he could.

He thought little about it, until he dropped one of the clay balls and it cracked open on a rock. Inside was a beautiful precious stone!

Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained a small treasure. He found thousands of dollars worth of jewels in the 20 or so clay balls he had left.

Then it struck him. He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown about 50 to 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves. Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure he could have taken tens of thousands, but he had just thrown it away!

It is like that with people. We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and see the external clay vessel. It doesn't look like much from the outside. It isn't always beautiful or sparkling, so we discount it.

We see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or well known or wealthy. But we have not taken the time to find the treasure hidden inside that person.

There is a treasure in each and every one of us. If we take the time to get to know that person, and if we ask God to show that person the way He sees them, then the clay begins to peel away and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth.

May we not come to the end of our lives and find out that we have thrown away a fortune in friendships because the gems were hidden in bits of clay. May we see the people in our world they way God sees them.

I am so blessed by gems of friendship I have with you. Thank you for looking beyond my clay vessel.

I don't know who wrote this, but it touched my heart.

I am a Kept Woman

2009-06-29T13:24:00.003-05:00

You see there were a few times when I thought I would loose my mind,
but GOD kept me sane. (Isaiah 26:3)

There were times when I thought I could go no longer,
but the LORD kept me moving.
(Gen. 28:15)

At times, I have wanted to lash out at those whom I felt have done me wrong.
But the LORD kept my mouth shut..( Psalm 13)

Somtimes, I think money just isn't enough,
But GOD has helped us to keep the lights on, the water on, the car paid, the house paid, etc...
(Mat. 6:25-34)

When I thought I would fall, HE kept me up.
When I thought I was weak, HE kept me strong!
(1 Peter 5:7, Matt. 11: 28-30)

I could go on and on and on, but I am sure you hear me!
I am blessed to be 'kept'!

I'm "kept" by the Grace and Love of GOD

Desert Song

2009-06-14T07:52:00.004-05:00

I came across this song yesterday by being apart of Sings My Soul Saturday hosted by Amy.
There have been so many times that I find myself in the Desert. Not only me but, I hear so many who are struggling with all kinds of storms or should I say battles. Whether it is from:
Family, Finances, Friends, Jobs, Sickness...the list could go on and on and on. While we think we are alone because so many do not want to discuss their problems "WE ARE NOT ALONE"! We put on this mask and try to act like everything is happy and blissful when we are breaking into inside. I know because I have been there and still there a lot of the time! Remember this: YOU ARE NOT ALONE!! God is with you! So, my friend...when life hits you when you least expect it or you feel as things are spiraling out of control with life's struggles PRAISE HIM! MY GOD IS THE GOD WHO PROVIDES!

For more Super Sunday visit Peggy here.

Love Without Limits

2009-06-13T07:58:00.002-05:00

For more Sings My Soul Saturday visit Amy.

Lifesavers Candy

2009-06-12T08:13:00.004-05:00

A teacher was doing a study testing the senses (taste)        

The children began to identify the flavors by their color:

Red.....................Cherry
Yellow................Lemon
Green..................Lime
Orange...............Orange

Finally the teacher gave them all HONEY lifesavers. None
Of the children could identify the taste.

The teacher said, 'I will give you all a clue. It's what
your Mother may sometimes call your father.'

One little girl looked up in horror, spit her lifesaver out
and Yelled, 'Oh my Gosh! They're butt-holes!

The teacher had to leave the room!

Hope everyone has a FABULOUS Friday!!!:)
For more FUN and Laughs visit Kim here!

Sound Investing

2009-06-09T07:33:00.002-05:00

The 4th and last part of Scriptural Prayers for Your Finances is Sound Investing.

Spending. Because everything I have is Yours, I will seek Your glory in every financial decision. Specifically, ______________(consult Him about the decisiions you're making now) (1 Chorn. 29:11; Prov. 3:6; 1 Cor. 10:31).

Saving. Just as the ant prepares for the future, I will put aside money for future expenditures that will honor You, including _______(list the things you need to save for) (Prov.6:6-8).

Financial investment. My Master, are there areas in which You want me to take obedient risks with the wealth You have entrusted to me, in order to bring a return that will serve You and Your kingdom (Mt.25:24-27)?

Treasure in heaven. I gladly store up for myself treasures in heaven, where nothing can destroy them or take them away. I choose to shift the focus of my heart from earthly possessions toward heaven, where my home and my lasting treasure are--with You (Mt. 6:19-21;
Heb. 11:16).

Investing in people. Lord, how can I most effectively invest my worldly wealth in people, so that when it is gone and this life is over, they might join me in heaven(Lk.16:9)?
Scriptural Prayers for Your Finances by Brian Smith

In the time that we are living with so much hurt, pain and financial stress; what better time to pray for our finances and our country than now!

Today is : BFF (Best Friends Forever)

2009-06-08T12:17:00.002-05:00

To all my blog friends ....this is for you.

Hope you have a MARVELOUS Monday!
Happy BFF Day!

Made Me Glad

2009-06-07T09:35:00.004-05:00

For more Super Sunday visit Peggy @Amazing Grace-Mazes, Messes, Miracles.

Three Men on a Hike

2009-06-05T08:16:00.002-05:00

Three Men on a Hike Three men were hiking through a forest when they came upon a large raging, violent river. Needing to get to the other side, the first man prayed: "God, please give me the strength to cross the river."

Poof! God gave him big arms and strong legs and he was able to swim across in about 2 hours, having almost drowned twice.

After witnessing that, the second man prayed: "God, please give me strength and the tools to cross the river"

Poof! ... God gave him a rowboat and strong arms and strong legs and he was able to row across in about an hour after almost capsizing once.

Seeing what happened to the first two men, the third man prayed: "God, please give me the strength, the tools and the intelligence to cross the river"

Poof! ... He was turned in to a woman. She checked the map, hiked one hundred yards up stream and walked across the bridge.

"If at first you don't succeed, do it the way your wife told you!

Ladies...it is good to be back! I have missed you!

For more laughs visit Kim here!

Checking In

2009-06-03T09:09:00.003-05:00

Summer is here!! This past month things have been very crazy for me. I hope to post on some of these things soon. Thanks to everyone who continues to visit my blog and send prayers and encouragement! I have one more post on "Praying for your finances" that I hope to get out this week.
I am so behind in visiting and reading blogs...so I will be by soon to see what is going on with you.

For now I am heading to the gym to work on getting in shape!:)

Thieves in the Night

2009-05-01T09:52:00.003-05:00

Thieves In the Night

You've heard about people who have been abducted and had their kidneys removed by black-market organ thieves?

My thighs were stolen from me during the night a few years ago. I went to sleep and woke up with someone else's thighs. it was just that quick! the replacements had the texture of cooked oatmeal. Whose thighs were these and what happened to mine? I spent the entire summer looking for my thighs. Finally, hurt and angry, I resigned myself to living out my life in jeans. A then the thieves struck again!

My butt was next. I knew it was the same gang, because they took pains to match my new rear-end to the thighs they had stuck me with earlier. But my new butt was attached at least three inches lower than my original! I realized I'd have to give up my jeans in favor of long skirts.

Two years ago I realized my arms had been switched! One morning I was fixing my hair and was horrified to see the flesh of my upper arm swing to and fro with the motion of the hairbrush. this was really getting scary - my body was being replaced one section at a time. What could they do to me next?

When my poor neck suddenly disappeared and was replaced with a turkey neck, I decided to tell my story. Women of the world, wake up and smell the coffee! Those "plastic" surgeons are using REAL replacement body parts - stolen from you and me! The next time someone you know has something "lifted", look again --was it lifted from you?

THIS IS NOT A HOAX. This is happening to women everywhere everynight.

WARN YOUR FRIENDS!

P.S. Last year I thought some one had stolen my boobs. I was lying in bed and they were gone! but when I jumped out of bed, I was relieved to see that they had just been hiding in my armpits as I slept. Now I keep them hidden in my waistband.

These same thieves come in my closet and shrink my clothes!

How do they do it???????

For more laughs and fun visit Kim here.

Don't Sweat The Small Stuff

2009-04-24T10:44:00.004-05:00

DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF

(and it's ALL small stuff!)

And above all remember . . .

GOD LOVES YOU!

Girlie Wisdom!

1. A friend of mine confused her Valium with her birth control-pills.. She has 14 kids but doesn't really care.

2. One of life's mysteries is how a 2-pound box of chocolates can make a woman gain 5 lbs.

3. My mind not only wanders, it sometimes leaves completely.

4. The best way to forget your troubles is to wear tight shoes.

5. The nice part about living in a small town is that when you don't know what you are doing, someone else does. AMEN!!!

6. The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight because by then, your body and your fat are really good friends.

7. Just when I was getting used to yesterday, along came today.

8. Sometimes I think I understand everything, and then I regain consciousness.

9. I gave up jogging for my health when my thighs kept rubbing together and setting fire to my sweat pants.

10. Amazing! You hang something in your closet for a while and it shrinks 2 sizes!

11. Skinny people irritate me! Especially when they say things like...'You know sometimes I forget to eat!' .....Now I've forgotten my address, my mother's maiden name and my keys, but I have never forgotten to eat. You have to be a special kind of stupid to forget to eat!

12. The trouble with some women is that they get all excited about nothing and then they marry him.

13. I read this article that said the typical symptoms of stress are eating too much, impulse buying, and driving too fast. Are they kidding? That's my idea of a perfect day!

Have a Blessed Day!

For more laughs and fun visit Kim.

Spiritual Prayer for Your Finances #3

2009-04-21T12:23:00.002-05:00

Spiritual Prayers for your Finances #3 is on Sound Giving!

Giving joyfully. Father, I choose to give cheerfully and willingly, just as You have given so cheerfully and willingly to me (2 Cor. 9:7; Eph. 5:1-2).

Giving firstfruits. Lord, I will honor You by giving the first and best of all my income, not my leftovers (Prov.3:9: Mal. 1:6-8, 3:10; 1 Cor. 16:2).

Giving sacrificially. In light of Your love, it's a privilege to give even out of poverty. I choose to trust You enough to give even beyond my apparent ability (mk. 12:41-44; 2 Cor. 8:1-4).

Supporting ministry. You have instructed us to support those in ministry. May my gifts enable them to serve You more fully as they advance Your kingdom locally and abroad (1 Cor. 9:11-14).

Helping the needy. Lord, with the compassion You have put in me, I will give generously, without a grudging heart, to those in need--whether in my community or around the world. When I give to the poor, I'm ministering to You. Whom do You want me to help today
(Jas. 2:15-16: Dt. 15:10; Prov. 19:17; Mt. 25:40)?

Giving for God's glory. Father, You are the One who makes me rich in every way so that I can always be generous. I want my generosity to result in thanksgiving and glory to You, not to me
(2 Cor. 9:11; Mt. 6:1).
Spiritual Prayers for Your Finances by Brian Smith

Coming soon.....Spiritual Prayers for Your Finances #4 Sound Investing

SUPER SUNDAY!

2009-04-19T09:25:00.001-05:00

THE ENEMY KNOWS BETER THAN WE DO THAT NOTHING IS BIGGER OR MORE POWERFUL THAN OUR GOD.

Lord God, I feel like the enemy has tracked me down. I feel as if he has tried to surround me, with eyes alert, to throw me to the ground. He is like a lion hungry for prey, like a great lion crouching in cover.

Rise up, O Lord, and confront him. Bring him down! Rescue me from his wickedness! (Ps.17:11-13).

Look upon the enemy that oppresses me, and let smoke rise from Your nostrils! Let consuming fire come from Your mouth!

Part the heavens and come down! Mount the cherubim and fly! Soar on the wings of the wind! Shoot Your arrows, Lord, and scatter my enemy! (Ps. 18:8-10,14).

By: Beth Moore Praying God's Word Day by Day A Year of Devotional Prayers

Join Peggy for more Super Sunday!

Eight Things!

2009-04-18T12:46:00.004-05:00

Here's how to do this 8 THINGS thing:
Mention the person that tagged you.
Complete the lists of 8's.
Tag 8 of your wonderful bloggy friends.
Go tell them you tagged them!

I was tagged by Kim @ Homesteaders Heart and

Noel at Bloom Where You are Planted

Check out both of these blogs ...I am sure you will love them!

Okay...now to my EIGHT THINGS:

Eight Things I look Forward To:

1. The weekends when my husband comes home from a week of hard work on the road.

2. School getting out in May.

3. Heart Friends...we meet twice a month for accountability, prayer, encouragement.

4. Bombshells...another group ..we meet once a month. I went to high school with most of these ladies and then our daughters went K-12th grade with each other. We reconnected when our daughters started Kindergarden....we decided to stay connected by going out to eat or movies, bowling etc. Lots of fun and great girl time!

5. Going to Church

6. Playing with my 3 neices

7. Phone call from Andrea/seeing her again. I miss her so much!

8. Beach retreat with Ladies from my church.

8 Things I Did Yesterday:

1. Went to work at Jemison Middle School.

2. Went outside with my students and played ...yesterday was beautiful!

3. Picked up my Mom ...she is spending the weekend with me.

4. Washed dishes...talked on phone.

5. Picked up sticks in my yard for nephew Brad who was cutting my grass.

6. Played, fed and rocked to sleep my sweet neice Brooklynn while her Dad cut my grass.

7. Read blogs and posted comments.

8. Watched T.V. and read some in a book.

8 Things I Wish I Could Do:

1. Jog without running out of breath.

2. Loose weight and still be able to eat chocolate.

3. Make more money so we would be out of debt and Joey wouldn't have to work so hard.

4. Redo the last 2 years that Andea was at home.

5. Stop rebellion, addictions, heartbreak.

6. Remember names ...I am horrible...I never forget a face...but may forget your name.

7. Talk, hug and see Andrea and her not to hate me.

8. Be in shape...and have the perfect tan.

8 Shows I watch:

1. Reba

2. NCIS

3. Dancing with the Stars

4. Hallmark channel

5. Lifetime channel

6. Food network

7. Doctors

8. Speed channel (only when Joey is home)

8 Bloggers Tagged:

I'm tagging people I don't know very well, YET.

If you do this please tell me so I can come learn more about you.

1. Jennifer @ Through the Storm of Life

2. Tammy @ Encouragement For the Day

3. Becca @ Time Well Spent

4. Kelly @ Our Family Ramblings

5. Susan @ Forever His

6. Luanne @ Less of Me

7. Sherri @ Be About Your Father's Business

8. Faith @ Gold in the Clouds

If I didn't tag you and you want to do this, PLEASE feel free.

So if you're a friend and want to do this, let me know so I can come check it out!!

Friday Funnies

2009-04-17T11:42:00.003-05:00

Power outage during the mamogram appointment from hell......

I actually kept my mammogram appointment. I was met with, 'Hi! I'm Belinda!' This perky clipboard carrier smiled from ear to ear, tilted her head to one side and crooned, 'All I need you to do is step into this room right here, strip to the waist, then slip on this gown. Everything clear?'

I'm thinking, 'Belinda, try decaf. This ain't rocket science. Belinda skipped away to prepare the chamber of horrors. With the right side finished, Belinda flipped me (literally) to the left and said, 'Hmmmm. Can you stand on your tippy toes and lean in a tad so we can get everything?' 'Fine', I answered. I was freezing, bruised, and out of air, so why not use the remaining circulation in my legs and neck and finish me off? My body was in a holding pattern that defied gravity (with my other boob wedged between those two 4 inch pieces of square glass) when we heard, then felt a zap!

Complete darkness and the power went off! 'Oh, maintenance is working. Bet they hit a snag.' Belinda headed for the door. 'Excuse me! You're not leaving me in this vise alone are you?' I shouted. Belinda kept going and said, 'Oh, you fussy puppy...the door's wide open so you'll have the emergency hall lights. I'll be right back.' Before I could shout 'NOOOO!' she disappeared. And that's exactly how Bubba and Earl, maintenance men extraordinaire, found me, half-naked and part of me dangling from the Jaws of Life, and the other part smashed between glass! After exchanging polite 'Hi, how's it going' type greetings, Bubba (or possibly Earl) asked, to my utter disbelief, if I knew the power was off. Trying to disguise my hysteria, I replied with as much calmness as possible 'Uh, yes, yes I did thanks.' 'You bet, take care' Bubba replied and waved good-bye as though I'd been standing in the line at the grocery store.

Two hours later, Belinda breezes in wearing a sheepish grin. Making no attempt to suppress her amusement, she said, 'Oh I am sooo sorry!' The power came back on and I totally forgot about you! And silly me, I went to lunch. Are we upset?'

And that, Your Honor, is exactly how her head ended up between the clamps....

Friday Funnies is hosted by Kim. For more fun and smiles and even laughs visit Kim here.

Blood Type

2009-04-11T11:15:00.002-05:00

Blood Type
It's a Wednesday night and you are at a church prayer meeting when somebody runs in from the parking lot yelling, "Turn on a radio, turn on a radio!"

And while the church listens to a little transistor radio with a microphone stuck up to it, the announcement is made: "Two women are lying in a Long Island hospital dying from a 'mystery' flu." Within hours it seems, this thing just sweeps across the country.

People are working around the clock trying to find an antidote. Nothing is working! California, Oregon , Arizona , Georgia , Minnesota , Massachusetts
It's as though it's just sweeping in from the borders.

And then, all of a sudden, the news comes out The code has been broken. A cure can be found. A vaccine can be made. It's going to take the blood of somebody who hasn't been infected, and so, sure enough, all through the Midwest , through all those channels of emergency broadcasting, they ask you to do one simple thing: Go to your downtown hospital and have your blood type taken. That's all we ask of you. When you hear the sirens go off in your neighborhood, please make your way quickly, quietly, and safely to the hospitals.

Sure enough, when you and your family get down there late on that Friday night, there is a long line, and they've got nurses and doctors coming out and pricking fingers and taking blood and putting labels on it.

Your wife and your kids are out there, and they take your blood type and they say, "Wait here in the parking lot and if we call your name, you can be dismissed and go home."

You stand around, scared, with your neighbors, wondering what in the world is going on and if this is the end of the world.

Suddenly a young man comes running out of the hospital screaming. He's yelling a name and waving a clipboard. What? He yells it again! And your son tugs on your jacket and says, " Daddy, that's me."

Before you know it, they have grabbed your boy. Wait a minute!

Hold on! And they say, "It's okay, his blood is clean. His blood is pure.

We want to make sure he doesn't have the disease. We think he has got the right type." Five tense minutes later, out come the doctors and nurses , crying and hugging one another .. some are even laughing. It's the first time you have seen anybody laugh in a week, and an old doctor walks up to you and says, "Thank you, sir. Your son's blood type is perfect. It 's clean, it is pure, and we can make the vaccine.." As the word begins to spread all across that parking lot full of folks, people are screaming and praying and laughing and crying.

Then the gray-haired doctor pulls you and your wife aside and says, "May we see you for moment? We didn't realize that the donor would be a minor and 20 we need . we need you to sign a consent form." You begin to sign and then you see that the number of pints of blood to be taken has been left blank.

"H-how many pints?", you ask.

And that is when the old doctor's smile fades and he says, "We had no idea it would be little child. We weren't prepared. I'm sorry sir, we need it all!"

"But but ... You don't understand."

"We are talking about the world here. Please sign. We need it all!"

"But can't you give him a transfusion?"

"If we had clean blood we would. Can you sign? Would you sign?"

In numb silence, you do.

Then they say, "Would you like to have a moment with him before we begin?"

Can you walk back? Can you walk back to that room where he sits on a table saying, "Daddy? Mommy? What's going on?" Can you take his hands and say, "Son, your mommy and I love you, and we would never ever let anything happen to you that didn't just have to be. Do you understand that?"

And when that old doctor comes back in and says , " I'm sorry, we've GOT to get started! People all over the world are dying. Can you leave?"

Can you walk out while he is saying, "Daddy? Mommy? Daddy?

"Why, why have you forsaken me?"

And then next week, when they have the ceremony to honor your son some folks sleep through it . some folks don't even come because they go to the lake or the seashore. some folks come with a pretentious smile and just "pretend" to care. Would you want to jump up and say, "MY SON DIED FOR YOU! DON'T YOU CARE?"
Is that what GOD wants to say? "MY SON DIED FOR YOU. DON'T YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I CARE?"

"FATHER, Seeing it from YOUR eyes breaks our hearts. Maybe now we can begin to comprehend the great Love YOU have for us."
Arthur Unknown

Friday Funnies

2009-04-10T08:02:00.001-05:00

It is Friday!!! Today I am joining in on the fun at Kim's for Funny Friday. For more laughs and smiles to your day click here.

God Is Busy
If you don't know God, don't make stupid remarks!!!!!!

A United States Marine was attending some college
courses between assignments. He had completed missions
in Iraq and Afghanistan . One of the courses had a
professor who was an avowed atheist, and a member of the ACLU.

One day the professor shocked the class when he came
in. He looked to the ceiling and flatly stated, GOD if you
are real then I want you to knock me off this platform.
I'll give you exactly 15 min.' The lecture room fell silent. You
could hear a pin drop.
Ten minutes went by and the professor proclaimed,
'Here I am GOD, I'm still waiting.'

It got down to the last couple of minutes when the
Marine got out of his chair, went up to the professor, and
cold-cocked him; knocking him off the platform. The professor was out
cold. The Marine went back to his seat and sat there,
silently.

The other students were shocked and stunned, and sat
there looking on in silence. The professor eventually came
to, noticeably shaken, looked at the Marine and asked,
'What in the world is the matter with you? 'Why did you
do that?'
The Marine calmly replied, 'GOD was too busy today
protecting America 's soldiers who are protecting your right
to say stupid stuff and act like an idiot. So He sent me.'

The classroom erupted in cheers!

Spiritural Prayer for Your Finances #2

2009-04-08T08:05:00.003-05:00

These scripture prayers are for Sound Living with your finances.

Eternal priorities. Lord, I choose not to set my heart on the world and its passing desires, especially _________________(list the worldly things that lure you). I will love You above all by seeking first Your kingdom and Your righteousness (1 Jn. 2:15-17; Mt. 6:33).

Stewardship. I relinquish my owner mentality, that I might faithfully manage what You have entrusted to me, remembering always that I am accountable to You for its use (Mt. 25:14-30;
1 Cor. 4:2).

Work ethic. Lord, I commit now to work with all my heart, not to win the favor of men, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for You. It is You that I am serving (Col. 3:22-24).

Provision for family. I will not neglect my family. As I work faithfully, grant me the means to supply what they need (1 Tim. 5:8).

Borrowing. Lord, thank You for providing through Your Spirit the fruit of self-control. I choose to delay buying what I don't need until You supply the money. I commit to freeing myself from all outstanding debts except the continuing debt of love (Gal. 5:22-23; Prov. 22:7; Ro. 13:8).

Honesty. Lord, I refuse to pursue any form of dishonest gain, because ill-gotten treasures are ultimately of no value. I especially need help with ___________(tell Him about any current temptations). (Ex. 20:15; Prov. 10:2; Ro. 13:6-7).

Patience. I need wisdom, God, to resist the lure of get-rich-quick schemes, which lead to poverty. Provide me with restraint to gather the money I need little by little (Prov. 13:11, 23:4, 28:19-20).
Scriptural Prayers for Your Finances by Brian Smith

I hope these scripture prayers help with what you may be going through. Times are hard for everyone. It seems that all families are being hit with something or multiple things. Whether it is finances, family things (such as parents fighting, caring for elderly parents, sickness, rebellious teens, juggling home and work), loosing a job or finding enough work to keep your job. WOW, this is alot... and I am sure these are just tip of what some of us are dealing with. I plan to post later some prayers to help with each of these things.

Coming soon: Scripture Prayers for Sound Giving.

Scriptural Prayers for Your Finances #1

2009-04-01T10:14:00.004-05:00

Everywhere you turn you hear of hardships especially in the finance area. I came across these and wanted to share. The first part is on Sound Thinking.

Ownership. Lord, You own the world and everything in it. All that I have belongs to You (Ps. 24:1; 1Chron. 29:14,16).

Material blessings. Thank You, God of creation for all the goodthings You've richly provided for our enjoyment--for food, clothing, and home; for entertainment and "toys" for ____________(list your specific blessings). Help me hold onto these things loosely, honoring You by using them for Your eternal purposes (1 Tim.4:4, 6:17; 1 Cor. 7:30-31).

God's generosity. Thank You, Father for the indescribable gift of Your Son! Thank you that Your divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him (2Cor. 9:15; 2 Pet. 1:3).

Gratitude. Lord, as I come to know You and Your ways, I am continually grateful for all things and for every circumstance--even the difficulties You allow for my growth. I will give You thanks everyday. Today I'm grateful for ____________________________________(Eph. 5:20; 1Thess.5:18; Job 1:21).

Contentment and trust. Father, forgive me for worrying that I might not have enough to live on. I see evidence of Your faithfulness all around me. I choose now to stop worrying and instead to ask You for __________________(tell Him what you need). Thank You for always providing exactly what I need (Mt. 6:25-31; Prov. 30:8-9; Phil. 4:6, 19).

Lordship. I resolve never to trust in wealth or to let it master me. you are my only Master (Ps.49:12,16-17; Prov. 11:28; Mt 6:24).

Scriptural Prayers for Your Finances by Brian Smith

Pass these along to friends and family who may be struggling with their finances or copy them for yourself. This is a subject that is hard to talk about. Why do we have such pride sometimes? We should put our faith and trust in HIM to provide for us. Sometimes easier said than actually done. Coming soon.....Sound Living.

Doing More

2009-03-30T14:30:00.003-05:00

God put me on earth to accomplish a certain number of things," someone wrote, "and right now I am so far behind I will never die!"

We smile at that, but if you are a person (like me!) who always feels you could be doing more than you're doing, stop for a minute. Is "more" always better?

Maybe you're thinking, "If I were just a little better organized, I could squeeze more (there's that word again) into my life. I could accomplish more."

Thousands of dollars are spent on seminars every year to help people do just that--to help them maximize their lives. These training classes are often helpful. In fact, it would be hard to attend any one of them and not pick up some useful pointers that would make us more efficient.

Not surprisingly, most of us carry the same idea into our spiritual lives as well. We attend retreats and citywide gatherings. We buy books and tapes. We try new methods of Bible study and experiment with new prayer journals. All of this we do to maximize our Christian life. Sometimes it helps, and sometimes it doesn't. Sometimes we just come away saying, "Those are great ideas, but I just can't do it all. I'm 'maxed out' already."

Gail MacDonald writes, "There is a strange sort of logic that suggests that spiritual resource and renewal are found in constantly seeking new voices, attending more meetings, listening to incessant music, and gathering to exchange half thought-out opinions. How often do we fall into the trap of believing God is most pleased when we have maximized our information, our schedules, our relationships?"

Maybe God doesn't care whether or not we get more done. I don't see anywhere in Scripture where it says we'll get a greater reward for having done more. God does expect us to be wise with the resources He has given us, but the rewards come for faithfulness, not quantity of task performed.

What does God really want from us? Take a look at this verse: "For who is he who will devote himself to be close to me," asks God (Jeremiah 30:21). That's the challenge--simply being close to God!

Yes, we have battles to fight and schedules to keep. But if we need something "more", it's more of God. His presence is far more necessary to our well-being than any amount of organizational skills or efficiency techniques!

Today, check up on your love relationship with the Lord. God wants us to be close to His heart--whether we get "more" done or not!
By: Darlene Sala Encouraging Words for Women

I wanted to share this with you....these words encourages me when I am under pressure. Lately, this is happening alot... with tax season underway and trying to get everything ready to send to the accountant, working, helping our with my Mom and other life pressures...the plate runneth over!!! I need "more" of God how about you?

Super Sunday

2009-03-29T07:56:00.003-05:00

It's time for Super Sunday! Super Sunday is still being hosted by The Power of Your Love. Let's all join up with just a scene, a song, or a Scripture that is particularly touching to you to share & honor our Lord!!! Share your SUNDAY INSPIRATION with us!

GOD'S PRIMARY PURPOSE IN HEALING US FROM OUR HURTS IS TO INTRODUCE US TO NEW DEPTHS OF RELATIONSHIP WITH HIMSELF.

Lord, in my heart I plan my course, but You determine my steps (Prov. 16:9).

Life is not going as I planned. But I am so grateful that You are not caught off guard. You knew everything that would befall me. So please direct my steps as You determine.

I need You, Lord.

Carry me when I cannot walk.

For though I walk in the midst of trouble, You preserve my life. Stretch out Your hand against the anger of my foes. With Your right hand, save me.

You will fulfill Your purpose for me. Your love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not abanndon the works of Your hands (Ps. 138:7-8).

Beth Moore Praying God's Word Day by Day A Year of Devotional Prayer

You Are God Alone

2009-03-28T08:36:00.002-05:00

Visit Amy for more great music.

Our church choir is singing this song tomorrow. I enjoy being apart of the choir and I can't wait for us to sing this song again.

Friday Quotes

2009-03-27T09:12:00.002-05:00

"I have learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not on our circumstances."
Martha Washington

"Be the change you want to see in the world."
Mahatma Gandhi

"My hopes are not always realized but I always hope."
Ovid

"They who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night."
Edgar Allen Poe

"The probability that we may fail in the struggle ought not to deter us from the support of a cause we believe to be just."
Abraham Lincoln

"Keeping in touch with childhood memories keeps us believing in life's simplest pleasures like a rainy afternoon."
Chrissy Ogden

"A cloudy day is no match for a sunny disposition."
William Arthur Ward

"Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others; it is the only means."
Albert Einstein

I usually only post about 3 quotes...today I just couldn't make up my mind...so I posted several. Which one do you like?
HAVE A FABULOUS FRIDAY!!!

Sweet Beulah Land

2009-03-21T08:43:00.003-05:00

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I am having technical problems this morning.

On March 17th 24 years ago my Dad went to his heavenly home. One of his favorite songs was "Sweet Beulah Land". I am posting this song today in honor of him.

My dad enjoyed playing his guitar and singing, reading his bible and teaching Sunday school. He worked hard at his job to come home and work in the garden with my mom. He liked watching boxing and baseball on T.V along with The Lawrence Welk show and Hee Haw. He also watched football ....The University of Alabama was his favorite college team. I remember so many times watching the games with him. Wonderful memories...that sometimes you just want to share. I have so many more and will share more at another time. Till then ...enjoy one of Dad's favorites

"Sweet Beulah Land"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EyYToQfFJbE

For more great music visit Amy.

Super Sunday

2009-03-08T11:35:00.004-05:00

I wanted to share with you what I read on March 6th from Beth Moore's Praying God's Word Day by Day (A year of Devotional Prayer).

THE FREEDOM OF CHRIST IS WORTH THE SURRENDER OF ABSOLUTELY ANYTHING. RELIEF, NOT REMORSE, AWAITS THE REPENTANT.

Father, Your Word says that a person who lacks self-control is like a city whose whall are broken down (Prov.25:28).

Sometimes I feel like there is so much rubble, I can't rebuild the wall (Neh.4:10). but Your Word claims that You are the Repairer of Broken Walls, and the Restorer of Streets with Dwellings (Isa.58:12). Please introduce Yourself to me by these wonderful names and rebuild the rubble in my life.

I confess to You that I am overwhelmed by the task ahead, but I am thankful that You have authority over all things. Heaven is Your throne; earth is Your footstool (Matt. 5:35). Therefore, anything over my head is under Your feet!

This was written for me. I am feeling so overwhelmed with the things of life and I feel as though my wall are broken and in need of repair. God knows all that is going on in my life and like the prayer says HE is the repairer of broken walls and HE has the authority over all things.

This song by Building 429 is played alot this week on the radio. Everytime I hear the song it touches me. I love the chorus. Click the link below and it will take you to the song. Hope you enjoy it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtUgENpy_tw

Beth at The Power of Your Love is hosting Super Sunday this week for Peggy who is taking a blog break. Stop by her place for more Super Sunday or if you would like to join in it's really simple!! A scene, a song, a Scripture--anything that has touched your heart this week (or this very moment!).

Free to Be Me

2009-03-06T22:12:00.002-06:00

I hope you enjoy this song. It has a great beat and the chorus is awesome!
Don't forget to pause my music to the right.

For more great music visit Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Dependance On You

2009-02-28T00:00:00.002-06:00

The lyrics to this song speaks to my heart.
"Just to Know that you love me gives me hope to carry on.......I confess my dependance on YOU!"

For more great music visit Amy at Sign,Miracles and Wonders.

Friday Quote

2009-02-27T16:32:00.007-06:00

"Be still and know that I am God"
Psalms 46:10 NIV

The word holy means "to separate". The ancestry of the term can be traced back to an ancient word which means "to cut." To be holy, then, is to be a cut above the norm, superior, extraordinary.... The Holy One dwells on a different level from the rest of us. What frightens us does not frighten him. What troubles us does not trouble him. When you set your sights on our God, you focus on "a cut above" any storm life may bring....You find peace.
Grace For the Moment by Max Lucado

Today has been a very crazy day! Stormy weather has kept us in and out of our classroom (more than normal). We had to also stay in the halls for a while due to tornado warning. As I am typing..I can hear the sirens going off for another warning.
During these times I could see some of my students scared and not sure of what was going to happen. I work with special needs students and they don't always understand. Like all children they wanted pats, hugs and assurances that all would be okay.
I feel the same way alot of times. I am so thankful that I can go to my Heavenly Father and HE will give me pats, hugs and assurances that all will be okay. HE will send someone to encourage me, hug me, smile and yes even pat me on the back just when I need them.
During the storms of life I have to sometimes just "be still" and be reminded that God is in control and HE will take care of me through the storms.

Happy Anniversary....Baby!

2009-02-21T08:36:00.004-06:00

For more Then Sings My Soul Saturday visit Amy.

23 years ago today I married the most wonderful man in the world! I can't believe it is 23 years...time flies by so fast. It seems just yesterday ...Joey was calling me to ask me out on a date.
I love to listen to Jim Brickman. A perfect date would be to get all dressed up and go to a Jim Brickman concert. The kind where you sit at a table and can see Jim Brickman playing the piano and "your man" asked you to dance...everyone is sitting down and watching. "Your man" has only eyes for you, he twirls you around the dance floor ...at the end of the dance you just hold each other and look into each others eyes and the others stand and clap and you realize you are in a room with others.
Maybe one day...back to the real world.
I think we are going to ride go carts. LOL
Joey loves to ride and he is out of town so much sooo off to the dirt track we go.
I am really okay with this...it doesn't matter what we do today ..as long as we are together...

I decided to dream a little on what I thought a perfect date would be and share with you 2 of my favorite Jim Brickman songs. As I listen to these songs ...Joey and I are dancing (in my dreams).
I hope you enjoy them.

The Gift

Your Love

Joey did wake me up this morning singing "Happy Anniversay Baby...I got you my mind"! IT was soooo sweet!

Friday Quote

2009-02-20T10:13:00.002-06:00

"The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today."
Franklin D. Roosevelt

"There is no substitute for hard work." Thomas Edison

"Keep your head and your heart going in the right direction and you will not have to worry about your feet." unknown

Have a FABULOUS FRIDAY!!!!

Super Sunday

2009-02-15T14:47:00.004-06:00

"To live in the freedom God has purposed for us, we must recognize and forsake all other Gods.

Lord God, When Your children, the Israelites, were defeated in battle, You revealed to them that they were hanging on to something that did not belong to them. You said, "You cannot stand against your enemies until you remove it" (Josh. 7:13).
Father God, I earnestly ask You to reveal anything in my life that could be hindering victory, then give me the courage to release it to You.
Keep me safe, O God, for in You and You alone I take refuge. I say to You, Lord,
"You are my Lord; Apart from you I have no good thing" (Ps. 16:1-2).

by: Beth Moore Praying God's Word Day by Day A Year of Devotional Prayer

For more Super Sunday visit Peggy!

Think Spring!

2009-02-08T20:04:00.003-06:00

SpiritualGraphics.com

Can you believe this weather? The last several days have been great. It makes me wish Spring was here. Of course, Alabama weather it could snow in April. LOL
But, for right now ....I am enjoying the nice weather....maybe its me but it seems the day is even longer. I can't wait for the time to change back. I like the longer sunshine days.
How about you? Which do you prefer...Spring or Fall?

Super Sunday

2009-02-07T20:32:00.003-06:00

"We fear making sacrifices, but the irony is that we make a lot of sacrifices when we are not living the will of God."

Father, the false teachers of this world promise freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity-- for a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him (2Pet.2:19).
Lord, I acknowledge my slavery to certain sins, and I deeply desire to be mastered by You alone. Only Your mastery brings liberty.
"Everything is permissible for me:--but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"--but I desire not to be mastered by anything (I Cor. 6:12).
Lord God, help me to recognize and discern what is not beneficial for me. Help me to see that authentic liberty is being free to do certain things and not to do others.
By: Beth Moore Praying God's Word Day By Day (A year of Devotional Prayer
Visit Peggy for more Super Sunday!

Lay Down My Pride

2009-02-07T07:53:00.004-06:00

For more Then Sings My Soul Saturday visit Amy.

Don't forget to pause the music at the right.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjnF4sC0eqA

I am having computer problems. I am not sure if this will work or not.
The song and video is by Jeremy Camp "Lay Down My Pride".
Have a fabulous Saturday!

Armor of God Prayer

2009-02-02T21:00:00.003-06:00

It seems every which way I turn I am hearing of family, friends, co-workers that are under attack...Spiritual Attack! I know that my family is not the only one under attack.
Several years ago my Sunday school class went through a study on the Armor of God. I learned so much from this study. Put my armor on everyday for a while ...then like other things tend to get relaxed and then the next thing you know you are not putting on the armor.I am currently reading a book that has "Armor of God Prayer" listed has a prayer to pray each morning to start your day.
With everything going on around us ...like the economy, financial scares, our children making decision that are not christian, our health, diseases, not to mention all the things going on out in the big big world...I wanted to share this prayer with you.
"Armor of God Prayer"
"Lord, I put on the belt of truth. Thank You that You provide us with the truth and that the truth has set me free. Next, I put on the breastplate of righteousness, which I know I have protecting me because Jesus is in my heart. Then I fit my feet with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace, and I pray that I will walk in peace today and take every opportunity to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with those I meet. I take up the shield of faith to guard my heart against all the flaming arrows of the evil one. I put on the helmet of salvation to protect my mind. Then, fully clothed in my spiritual armor, I take up the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God and the only true weapon I have to fight the raging battle that surrounds me." Ephesians 6:10-18
I have this taped on my bathroom mirror ....where I can see it each morning as a reminder to make sure that I clothed myself in spiritual armor each day.
I have learned so much in these last months ....one of things that I have learned is we are under attack everyday and we must be prepared to face these flaming arrows..what better way than with the Armor of God!

Let The Praises Ring

2009-01-31T09:37:00.002-06:00

Several years ago Joey and I went with the youth of our church to Gaitlinburg, TN to Winter Jam. Lincoln Brewster was there and I loved his music. It makes you want to stand up, dance and sing and like the song says "LET THE PRAISES RING"!! I hope you enjoy the song.
For more Then Sings My Soul Saturday visit Amy.
Don't forget to pause music to the right.

Super Sunday... All In ALL

2009-01-18T08:49:00.003-06:00

Music soothes my soul....I love this song...
When my neices would come over and it would be nap time I would sing them this song and rock them...it soothed them to sleep and soothe my soul. This song is so true to me HE IS MY ALL IN ALL!!

For more Super Sunday visit Peggy.

It Is Well With My Soul

2009-01-17T09:07:00.008-06:00

I woke up with this song on my mind this morning...
"Whatever my lot He has taught me to say It is well with my soul".
Whatever you are going through today....say to yourself ...
"IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL"'
I hope you enjoy the song...

Don't forget to pause the music to the right!

For more TSMSS visit Amy.

Thankful Thursday

2009-01-14T22:50:00.002-06:00

Today I am Thankful for:

Heart Friends....Candace, Dee Dee, Sandra, Tricia and Vanessa. These ladies are very dear to my heart. I am so thankful to have them in my life.

My job....I really enjoy my job. There are days that it is rough...but who doesn't have these? I am so attached to the children I work with. I also work with great people who make my days easier and fun.

Sweating to the Oldies....yes you read right. A group of co-workers are getting together and exercising to this dvd. They make it so much fun!!!

Music....I enjoy listening to music ...and singing is never better when you are in the car all alone with the radio up.

Joey ....He works so hard to provide for our family.

The ability to learn new things...God is using people and resources to teach me all kinds of new things...I plan to give more detail later.

I passed the CPR class that I had to take for my job. YEAH!!!

Books....I am reading a great book that I borrowed from Tricia "When I Lay My Isaac Down" by Carol Kent.

What are you thankful for?

Come join us for Thankful Thursday hosted by Iris @ Grace Alone.

Blog Love

2009-01-11T22:00:00.000-06:00

I received this Blog award from Sherri at Be About Your Father's Business. Sherri has a heart for God and she expresses this in her writing. I encourage you to stop by her place for a visit where I am sure you will be blessed. Thanks Sherri for the award!!!

The 5 blogs that I am sending the award to are:
Debra @ Clothed with Scarlet
Christina @ All That Blog
Deborah @ Bout Crazy
Dee Dee @ I Have No Greater Joy
Cheryl @ Hope for Each Day

It was very hard deciding which blogs to give the award to....there are so many that I enjoy reading that encourage, inspire and challenge me.
I encourage you to stop by each of these blogs for a visit ....I am sure you will be glad you did!!

Here's the rules:1) Put the logo on your blog
2) Add the link of the blogger who shared the award with you
3) Pass this award to bloggers whose blogs you love
4) Add your link to the list of participants below
5) Leave a message on the blog of the blogger who passed this award

Also check out the blogs that I have listed on my blog list....these blogs are AWESOME!!

Super Sunday

2009-01-11T08:57:00.002-06:00

This is my first time to participate in Super Sunday. Be sure to visit Peggy for more Super Sunday.

This song by Casting Crowns "Does Anybody Hear Her" has so much meaning. I saw the video yesterday from a fellow blogger that participated in Then Sings My Soul Saturday. I was so moved by the video. I can't seem to get it off my mind. So, I decided to post it today for Super Sunday.
Follow this link and it should take you to the video. For some strange reason I couldn't download it this morning. I hope it works.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhOJW4Uwy3c&feature=related

Let me know what you think and I hope you enjoy Super Sunday!

Back Where You Belong

2009-01-10T09:57:00.002-06:00

Back Where You Belong is by Newsong.
When I heard this song....I just had to share with you!! I love it!!I love the beat of the music and it is a song that when you get it in your head it will be there for a while.
Sometimes we need reminded to go "Back Where You Belong!"
"If you just believe you will see He is all you need" This is so true..."There is more to this life than trying to survive" I feel that is all we have been doing is taking one day and trying to survive. Life can be so hard at times....I am so thankful that my Father is always waiting with his arms open wide!!

I hope you enjoy it... for more TSMSS visit Amy.

Heart of Worship

2009-01-03T09:10:00.009-06:00

My daughter Andrea loved this song. Everytime Leslie and choir at our church would sing this I would see tears stream down Andrea's face. I don't really know why it is laid on my heart to post it today. I have not participated in TSMSS in a long time...but wanted to be apart of it today.
God will never let go and HE will bring us back to "Heart of Worship"
Thank you God that you never let go and will bring us back to you!!!

For more Then Sings My Soul Saturday visit Amy at Signs, Miracles and Wonders.
I hope the video works ...having problems. It is probably me.LOL

Are you ready for a JESUS-YEAR?

2009-01-01T10:35:00.005-06:00

I am looking forward to 2009!! Boy, I don't know about you...but 2008 was one more rocky boat ride! Sad to say there was more down waves than high ones. Thanks to God and His word and lots of prayer warriors the ship is tattered and torn ...but not shattered or wrecked!!! Whew...it is not easy to admit that my life at the end of 2007 and all 2008 has not been peachy...I can't imagine going through these things without God in my life...
That is why when I read on Beth's blog in her prayer.. that we wanted a Jesus-Year and HE wanted and US-Year it just clung to my heart. I want more of Jesus and to think that HE wants more of me brings tears to my eyes.

So that leads me to this...What can I do that will lead me to a JESUS-YEAR?
Reading my bible and scripture memory!

My dear friend Dee Dee is hosting Tuesday's Together in the Word on her blog. We'll be reading the Bible each day using the following plan, and posting on Tuesday's about what we've read or at least that we've read...

http://www.heartlight.org/devotionals/reading_plans/dailylight.pdf

If you would like to join us head over to Dee Dee's and sign up on Mr. Linky. It will be great to spend time in the word with others and see how God speaks to each of us. Plus, the accountability is an added bonus!

Also...

Beth Moore at LMP is hosting Siesta Scripture Memory where you memorize 2 scriptures a month. That is 24 verse a year!! I must admit that I am horrible at memorizing things. With the year that I have gone through I need this more than ever.
This is how it works: Go to the LPM blog and sign up and then on the 1st and 15th Beth will have a scripture that you can memorize with her or if God has laid a different scripture for you to memorize post it on the comments.
Beth commented in her prayer that she wanted a Jesus-Year...I agree I too want a Jesus-Year!

So how about it? Will you join me in making the year 2009 A JESUS-YEAR!!!

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T17:20:00.001-06:00

Charlie Brown Christmas

2008-12-19T06:11:00.001-06:00

Linus explains what Christmas is all about. This is one of my favorites! Hope you enjoy...
Merry Christmas!!!

Thankful Thursday

2008-12-18T06:44:00.002-06:00

Today I am thankful for:

My home that has running water, heat or air condition, electricity, garage with door opener so I can pull into it at night and not be scared, Joey who can't wait to return here after a long week of work and for the LOVE in our home.

My job and the friends that I have made there.

Heart Friends who pray, encourage me and laugh with me.

Dixie our winnie dog who keeps me company.

Surprise presents that students give...Hugs, smiles, pats and laughter!

Thankful for God who sent his son to earth to overcome the world to give us hope and forgiveness and eternal life. "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." Thank-you Jesus!!!

What are you thankful for?
For more Thankful Thursday visit Iris at Grace Alone.

Grown Up Christmas List

2008-12-17T18:01:00.001-06:00

Grown Up Christmas List is a beautiful song by Amy Grant. I hope you enjoy....

Friday's Quote

2008-12-12T07:06:00.002-06:00

"Special Treat"
"Blend equal parts of Faith and Hope mixed well with Charity;Stir in Good Will and Sweet Content and Precious Memory.Add Kindness, Helpfulness and Joy; of Gratitude don't spare;Then drop by drop Love's Essence sweet, and Praises freely share.And don't forget such spices rare as Laughter, Smiles and Fun,Taste often for the best results, ('Tis sweet to mince upon).Now add a Thankful Heart and then, the recipe's complete,Your "Merry Christmas" all will like … so try the season's treat."
--Esther Lloyd Dauber

"May Christmas bring you happiness,
A song to fill your heart
With all the blessings large and small
The season doth impart."
--Garnett Ann Schultz ("My Christmas Wish")

"May Christmas lend a special charm
To all you chance to do.
And may the season light your way
To hopes and dreams anew."
--Garnett Ann Schultz ("My Christmas Wish")

Christmas is just a couple of weeks away....I still don't have a Christmas tree up and not one present has been bought. I am not stressed about this either. I do enjoy Christmas ...this year just seems different for so many reasons. I really like shopping in the hustle and craziness of last minute gifts. I have not always been this way. When Andrea was younger ...I would always try to make sure we bought what was on her list before the crowds was bad. Now that she is older I find that I enjoy last minute shopping. I know this sounds crazy!!! LOL
I decided to look up Christmas quotes and liked these and wanted to share. Do you have a favorite Christmas quote? If so, I would love for you to share it.

Thankful Thursday

2008-12-10T20:26:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful for:

Joey ...He works so hard to provide for our family.

The sounds of laughter with my students as we put up the Christmas tree in our classroom.

Seeing their smiles ...oh the fun they had with the tinsel...They even try to decorate me with it!

The joy of holding my new great neice...she is so precious!!

The smell of Johnson's Baby Lotion...I love that smell ...it always brings back such wonderful memories of when Andrea was a baby.

Watching my two neices in their Christmas play on Sunday night. They were magnificent!!

Rocky Road Ice Cream....YUM YUM!!!!

Blog friends who encourage me with comments and prayers!

Friends who call, send e-mails, encourage me and keeps my family in their prayers!

Answered prayers.

That I can call on Jesus any time, any place, any where and HE will always listen!

For my BIBLE...

What are you thankful for?

For more on Thankful Thursday visit Iris at Grace Alone.

19 Years ago today!!!

2008-12-04T07:26:00.002-06:00

I can't believe it has been 19 years!! This day 19 years ago was one of the most important days of my life!! On this day my beautiful daughter Andrea was brought into this world. I can remember everything about this day...
So much has happened in the last year and half ...but it doesn't stop the love that a parent feels for their child. A love that will last a lifetime and after forever.
For Our Daughter...
"A daughter is your heart's delight----it starts when she's a tiny thing
Who charms you with her every smile and sweetly makes your spirit sing.
Then as she grows, your love grows, too.
she seems to weave a magic spell That fills your world with tenderness and wonder, more than words can tell.
One day, you turn around to find a lovely woman, fully grown. She's graceful, strong, and confident, with talents of her very own.
You smile and thank the stars above for all she is and all she's done and celebrate the depth of love a daughter brings to everyone." J. Hund
You're a special gift to the lives of so many people...especially ours!!
What a lovely and amazing young woman you've turned out to be.
Daughter of my heart.
Joy of my life.
Sunshine of my world!!

Happy 19th Birthday Andrea!!
We love you more!!!

I have so much to be thankful for today.
Thankful for a healthy daughter.
Thankful for all the joy she has brought into my life.
Thankful for her physical and mental health.
Thankful for her smile and how it lights up her eyes.
Thankful for all the memories that I have stored in my heart.
Thankful for all answered prayers.
Thankful for Andrea the miracle that God brought into my life!

Can't Wait for #3!!!!

2008-11-24T20:07:00.003-06:00

My neice Amy is expecting her 3rd daughter and tomorrow is the big day!
We are going to the hospital in the morning to wait the arrival of Brooklynn!
Ashlynn and Bralynn (big sisters) are so excited as is the rest of our family.
This brings back so many memories of the anticipated arrival of my sweet daughter Andrea. It seems like it was just yesterday ...I can't hardly believe it was 19 years ago!!

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

I know that God has a plan...while HE has not showed or told it to me yet....I know HIS plan is to prosper and not harm ...to give hope and a future!

A great friend sent me a devotion today on Shattered Dreams. I needed this devotion more than ever. I plan to share more on this at a later time.

For now... I plan to stop saying "why me?" and say "what now?" HE has a plan I must trust HIM!

Pray for Amy and baby Brooklynn...

God Will Make This Trial A Blessing!

2008-11-22T10:30:00.001-06:00

Friday's Quote

2008-11-14T09:06:00.003-06:00

"Sometimes the joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy"
Edgar A. Guest

"It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving."
Mother Teresa

"The most wasted of all days is the day one did not laugh."
Nicholas Chamfort

Today... I chose to smile and laugh and give with love...How about you?

A thought...

2008-11-03T10:52:00.004-06:00

"Every action we take, everything we do, is either a victory or defeat in the struggle to become what we want to be"
Anne Byrhe

"Plant seeds of kindness and harvest happy hearts"
Anonymous

Today I am going to take action for victory in everything I do!
Today I am going to plant seeds of kindness and have a happy heart!
How about you?

A Gentle Thunder

2008-10-29T16:18:00.003-05:00

"My God will use his wonderful riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need."
Phililppians 4:19

God's faithfulness has never depended on the faithfulness of his children. He is faithful even when we aren't...When the disciples didn't pray, Jesus prayed.
When the disciples didn't see God, Jesus sought God.
When The disciples were weak, Jesus was strong. When the disciples had no faith, Jesus had faith. I simply think God is greater than our weakness. In fact, I think it is our weakness that reveales how great God is....God is faithful even when his children are not.

This came from Grace for the Moment Inspirational Thoughts by Max Lucado

Just in in these past weeks God has done so much for my family. When Joey was in New Mexico and drove to Oklahoma City, OK to wait for a load to return home....God provided him with a load to AK. So, much closer than having to drive his truck empty all the way. God made a way when we didn't see a way.
Now Joey is headed to Wisconsin...He will not arrive till tomorrow. We are praying for God to make a way for a load to come toward home so he will not be empty all the way. God knows our needs and I believe just has HE provided a load last week....HE will make a way for Joey this week.
There is so much more...if I listed all the wonderful things that God has done....is doing...it would take me a long time and you would get oh so tired. HE provides for his children ! I am also thankful that HE provides for my every need!!!
God will make a way when we don't see a way!

What has God done for you ...when you didn't see a way?

Friday's Quote

2008-10-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

"You must do the thing you think you cannot do."
Eleanor Roosevelt

"Courage is the price that life exacts for granting peace.
The soul that knows it not, knows no release
From little things;
Knows not the livid loneliness of fear."
Amelia Earhart

"If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes
taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome."
Anne Bradstreet

Do you have a favorite quote? If so, I would love for you share it with me.
Which of the three quotes do you like best?

Butterfly Award

2008-10-15T12:29:00.005-05:00

I am behind on a few things ...Tracy gave me this award last week.

I have then honor of receiving this Butterfly Award from Tracy at Seed Thoughts. Tracy is always inspiring and encouraging and when you stop by her blog I am sure you be blessed.

Thanks Tracy for giving me this award!!!!!

I would like to pass this award on to the following blogs who have inspired me. I enjoy stopping by each of these blogs. I encourage you visit their blogs.

I pass the Butterfly Blog Award for the Coolest Blog to:

Heather @ Faithful Froggers

Marina @ Daughter of the King

Bobbie @ 40 Shades of Pink

Jenny @ Standing on the Water's Edge

Dee Dee @ No Greater Joy

Tricia @ It's All About Him

Michelle @ Michelle's Mementos

Krista @ Krista's Kronicles and Coffee Talk

Laurie Ann @ A Magnolia Heartbeat

The rules are to pass award on to others with their link and link back to the person from whom you received the award.
Have Fun!

A Place Where Nobody Knows Your Name

2008-10-13T08:10:00.003-05:00

Sunday morning Joey and I go to a place where noboby knows our name. This place is in Alabama close to 2 hours away. It was like taking a step back in time. Beautiful, small, loving, people who welcomed us with open arms. A place you could call home.

Joey was invited to speak at a church on Sunday for morning and evening services. He was so excited...I was nervous. One of Joey's friends called and asked if he could go with us ..so he arrived at our house and off we go. Sunday School starts at 10am ...preaching at 11am. We timed it so we would arrive about 10:30... Well...that didn't happen. I knew I should have drove! Joey likes to talk and so does his friend. That is one reason I sat up front. At least I could hear the radio. Don't get me wrong...I like to talk too. Sometimes...I can be quiet...not often. Today was the day for me to not talk much. Anyway, We stopped by McDonald's for a breakfast to go and of all days for them to be slow...today was the day. Which made us behind on our journey. Joey and J are talking and then we slow down....speed up....slow down...speed up....slow down. I looked at the clock...at the speed we were going....I looked at Joey and said if you don't speed up and keep your foot on the gas we are not going to make it on time. He pats me on the hand...confidently "it will be alright". Then the clock gets to about 10:20....Joey starts to put his hand over the clock so I can't see... He decides to take a different road that he knows to miss all the red lights. I start to panic. Everytime we take this road ....we always get lost!!! I reminded Joey of this...he pats my hand again and says "it will be alright". We get 2 miles into the road and they are working on the road and traffic is backed UP. Joey said " OH NO this isn't good" and immediately take the exit off the road...he starts going turning right...left..right... I asked " do you know where you are? he said "NO" I said "great"! The time now is 10:30 ....Joey sees a bridge and remembers his way. so off we go again on the Right road.
We arrive at the church about 5 minutes before the choir comes out.

Johnny is this nice man who called Joey ....he meets us at the door and asks my name and Joey is motioning for me to go on in and sit down. I really need to go to the restroom....with 2 hours of driving fast...slow...then FAST ...plus the McDonald's diet coke. The restroom is right at the door in foyer....I look around like a deer in headlights...thinking what do I do? Everyone is turned looking at us...do I make a mad dash to the ladies room and hope I make it out before the choir takes the stage? I start praying...okay God what do I do? the next thing I know I am on the second pew from the front! So, I told God....since the ladies room is out...will you control the urges and my bladder till church is over. God is so good....HE did just that!

Johnny comes to the front of the church stops and asks me where are we from....the church is quiet and I am trying to tell him "Jemison" he saids "what?" I said "Jemison" then I start to spell it for him. I feel like everyone is looking and can hear me. I start "J E M I S O N" he is trying to hear me and I have to spell it again. Then he says " Where is this place?" I told him South of Birmingham approx. 34 miles....He nods and says "Oh is this close to Shocko Springs?" I smile and say " no it is in Chilton County you know like the peaches" he nods goes to the front to start the service and he welcomes us and tells us that everyone wants to know where we are from... He looks at us with a big smile and proceeds to tell everyone that we are from Jemison 34 miles South of Birmingham and Shocko Springs is not close to us. Everyone laughs. I don't really know what Shocko Springs has to do with any of this...but, okay.

When the choir starts singing .....I noticed Joey squinting.... I asked "Did you bring your glasses so you can see the bible?" he shook his head ...NO. I am thinking ....Oh great.....we show up just in time for Joey to speak ...no time to greet the congreation....and now he want be able to see the words to read them. I start praying again....I'm not sure I had really stopped. The choir takes a seat ...someone nods at Joey ...he pats my hand again like he had so many times this day...saying "it will be alright".
I realize at that moment that everything would be okay. My man in his nice suite...all dressed up and oh so handsome...takes the stage and if he was nervous ....you would never know it.

Joey's message was from Matthew 4:19 "And He said the them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." "Follow Me" was the key words that Joey was focusing on. Joey stretched out his arms to hold his bible and read the words and made a small joke about his eye sight. Everyone laughed.... GOD was in control! Joey let God take control and use him and we all soaked up the message like sponges.

If you have never heard Joey speak (preach) you have really missed something. He lets go and lets God. He gets so excited...it is amazing to me sometimes. The week before...Joey receives a phone call asking what kind of food we like....the people of the church want to cook for us. So, I told Joey to not get to excited because they may decide to not feed us after his message....this of course is a joke.. After the service...everyone was coming up to us and shaking hands...some even hugged my neck and told us how nice it was to meet us.

We go to the Family Life Center to eat lunch and finally the ladies room. The food was Deliciously great. They went all out for us. Pork chops, fried okra, cream potatoes, peas, green beans, cornbread and of course Sweat Tea. The vegetables were fresh from soneone's garden. Mississippi Mud pie was awesome! There was also 2 other pies...I didn't eat any of those...Joey said they were good.
We hung around the family life center for a while talking, listening to the people talk about their church ...it was built in the 1800's. It was neat to hear the history and see the pictures.
We then went to a member's home where Joey and I changed clothes and relaxed for a short time. I again was nervous about going into a strangers home... Joey says I am weird sometimes about things...oh well. I felt the pat on my hand "it will be alright". He was right ...everything was alright! We had fun getting to know the family and seeing their beautiful horses.
When we arrived at the church for the evening service everyone seemed so glad to see us. Joey preached another great message...this one out of 1 Peter.
After the service they came and talked to us more...trying to get to know us better. Some even asked Joey if he was looking for a church.

We had a wonderful day!
Like the theme song from Cheers..."Sometimes you wanta go where everybody know your name."
For me it was great to go to " A PlaceWhere Nobody Knows Your Name. "

Friday's Quote

2008-10-10T10:19:00.002-05:00

I received this in an e-mail and thought it was cute .

Dear Lord,
So far today, I am doing all right.
I have not gossiped, lost my temper, been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish, or self-indulgent. I have not whined, complained, cursed, or eaten any chocolate. I have charged nothing on my credit card.
But I will be getting out of bed in a minute, and I think that I will really need your help then.

"Anger is a condition in which the tongue works faster than the mind"

"You can't change the past but you can ruin the present by worrying over the future"

"God always gives His best to those who leave the choice with Him"

"A hug is a great gift...one size fits all. It can be given for any occasion and it's easy to exchange"

On all of these the Authur is Unknown.

One of my favorites: "Life is not easy and it will never be, but you've got friends and one of them is me"

I am so blessed to have friends...I truly don't know where I would be without you. God has brought each and everyone into my life and I am thankful for you! Thanks for all the encouragement, prayers, phone calls, comments, and let's not forget girls night out!
Do you have a friend that you haven't talked to in a while? Call them or send a quick e-mail or card.
Thank-you for being a friend!

Have a FABULOUS WEEKEND!!!

Thankful Thursday

2008-10-09T12:38:00.003-05:00

I am Thankful for:

God answering my prayers

Joey having work

The rain we received yesterday

Cooler weather

God supplies my needs

No school on Monday the 13th because its Columbus Day!

What are you thankful for? Visit Iris at Grace Alone for more thanks.

Friday's Quote

2008-10-03T08:43:00.002-05:00

Friday's Quote...

"Women are like teabags. We don't know our true strength until we are in hot water! "
Eleanor Roosevelt

Is this not the truth? I hope this brought a smile to your pretty faces or maybe even a chuckle!

This is one of my favorite quotes!

"Dance as though no one is watching you; love as though you have never been hurt before, sing as though no one can hear you, live as though heaven is on earth."
Alfred Souza

Only if we could do just this. Today is one of our dress up days for Homecoming that is next Tuesday. Tacky hair and tacky dress. I wish you could see the students. They are tacky! LOL
They are having a grand time . I just feel happy and lighthearted..so.. I am going to dance, sing, love and live like not one is watching...How about you?
Have a FABULOUS....FUN WEEKEND!!!

Thankful Thursday

2008-10-02T12:25:00.001-05:00

Today I am Thankful for :

Peace

Joey

Co-worker/friend Kerri whose husband brought us Shrimp Broil for lunch today and the yummy German Chocolate cake her mom made.

My job

The beautiful red bird that was outside my window this morning singing a song.

For the things that God is doing in my life and for the things that HE is going to do.

The nice cooler weather we are having...

My beautiful daughter Andrea

What are you thankful for? For more Thankful Thursday visit Iris at Grace Alone...

Friday's Quote

2008-09-26T08:39:00.003-05:00

Friday's Quote...Change...seems to be the subject that keeps coming up in my life. Not only is the it coming up...there really has been a lot of changes. So, I decided to look for a few quotes on "Change".

"People grow through experience if they meet life honestly and courageously. This is how character is built" Eleanor Roosevelt

"Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future" John F. Kennedy

"If you don't like something change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude. Don't complain" Maya Angelou

What changes are happening in your life? What are you doing to help you deal and accept these changes?

HAVE A FABULOUS WEEKEND!!!!

Thankful Thursday!

2008-09-24T21:30:00.001-05:00

Today I am Thankful for:

Answered Prayers

Spending time with my Mom.

My Mom going to church with me tonight.

Friends that have encouraged and prayed for me through this new season of my life..this includes blog friends.

Sunny days and nice breezes

Pomegrantes ....they are now in season ...I love them!

The ladies in my Monday night bible study.

Joey...he works so hard to provide for our family.

My job at school. I am working in a different department...there are days that are very difficult...God has a reason for opening this door ... I am so thankful and honored that HE would allow me to be touched by these special young people who are working their way into my heart.

Andrea....who will always be my Sunshine!

Icy Hot. I know this sounds weird. But, I am thankful for this product and how it works on my leg. I pulled something in the bottom of my calf and Icy Hot made it feel so much better. I will tell you about this in incident in a future post.

Jesus Christ who is always with me and who carries me most of the time lately. I can't imagine my life without HIM.

For more Thankful Thursday visit Iris at Sting my Heart.I am so glad to be back...I have really missed being apart of Thankful Thursday.

I just saw that Iris posted on "Change" I sat with my mouth opened for a moment. Look at my previous post and you will understand. God knows what we need just when we need it. I am thankful that HE is using people in my life to help me deal and accept all the changes that are happening in my life. I am pressing forward and trying to embrace this new phase in my life...with God's as my guide I am confident that I will be going through this season as a CHAMPION!
I too am thankful for His faithfullness and love for me.
Thanks to Iris for allowing God to use her blog to encourage and help others.
God Bless You!

New Season

2008-09-23T21:34:00.004-05:00

I can't believe that Summer is over and Fall is here!
Fall is usually a busy time for me. This Fall is different. Don't get me wrong...I have been busy...just not as busy since Andrea is in college. It amazes me how much can change in a year. Last year...was so busy with cheering, football games, pep rallies, running for class office, etc. My time totally revolved around Andrea and what was going on in her life. I loved every minute of it. I have to admit...I miss it! Life at my house is so different and quiet!

I haven't posted much lately due to several things. One major one is computer problems that I hope now are fixed. Time management, and emotions. I feel like I have been on a emotional roller coaster. Up and down, twist and turns, even upside down, flying fast and then still. I don't know if anyone understand what I am trying to say...don't know if I am even making sense but, to me it does. I hope to post on some of these things soon.

I know everyone goes through different phases in life and I have always embraced these changes....till now. The phase I am in now is not so easy. Actually, it is down right hard. To much change too fast. I am still trying to adjust....some days are good others...well, not so good.

Andrea is doing good at college. I am so proud of her...she is a very strong young lady! She is handling the change so much better than me. My chest swells with pride when I think of how well she is adpating to all the changes. I keep thinking Joey and I must have done something right for her to be doing so good.

Job change is another change that I am still adjusting to. I am working at the school ...just in a different department. Again, good days ...bad days. I have the honor to work with special students that are slowly working their way into my heart.

For the past 2 weeks it seems that something is always happening. Things that have kept my emotions on that roller coaster I mentioned earlier. I was reminded that God doesn't put more on us than we can handle. I don't know that I am handling things so great... actually, I know there are areas that I have not handled good at all. I am trying...

I was reminded of a song that I use to sing back in the day. "He's Still Working on Me".
Maybe that is why I am going through some of these things is because HE is still working on me.
I am so glad that HE has not given up on me and that HE is with me through all the changes, phases and new seasons of my life.
God has a plan ....He just hasn't given me the details yet.

I bet if I was walking in the sand ....there would only be one set of footsteps...HIS!

Friday's Quote

2008-09-12T08:45:00.003-05:00

"You can be whatever you make up your mind to be."
Robert Collier

What I want to be....What I want to be ...when I grow up to be big me!
I remember singing this song with Andrea when she was in preschool. It seems just yesterday! Oh, How I miss those days!
Now she is in college working her way into nursing school. I am so proud of her!

Have you thought about what you want to be? Are you what you want to be?
I am constantly working toward the a goal to be the "best wife, best mom, best friend". I must admit that I have lacked in all areas. I keep trying to do better...but sometimes I feel like the rat in the cage spinning the wheel. Working hard to get somewhere but, going nowhere. I think I must have a bad attitude today. I must stop "the stinking thinking".

When I saw this quote it jumped out at me. What does Darlene want to be?
What does God want me to be? How can I improve to be that person? What changes can I work on to be a better wife, mom and friend?

What about you? Have you wondered these same things?
I know change is going to happen whether you are ready or not. It will happen. My life has changed so much in the past months that I think "What in the world is going on?" We knew some of these changes would come as Andrea grew older and I feel like I have embraced some of the changes...others I really need to work on.

Update: The job I am currently working at school ...I found out will not offer me benefits after they told me it would. I thought the door that opened for me was where God wanted me.. after not receiving the benefits I am now wondering if this is the right door to walk through. I need clear direction in this. Pray for God to give me clear direction.
Due to other happenings in life I have not been able to catch up on the blogs like I had planned. I hope to catch up in the upcoming weeks.
Starting on Monday....I will be leading a class at church .... I am very excited about this and looking forward to hear what God will be teaching me.
Andrea is doing good. Enjoying the college life and loves going to the football games. I thinks she has finally come to her senses and is now a "ROLL TIDE" fan. She thought she would be able to stay true to Auburn.... she was brainwashed to be an Auburn fan when she was about 3 years old by my neice who was attending Auburn University at the time. Continue to pray for her...

My Friday's Quote turned into several things.
I appreciate the encouragement and prayers...

Friday's Quote

2008-09-05T07:58:00.003-05:00

"Never does the human soul appear so strong as when it forgoes revenge, and dares forgive injury."
E. H. Chapin

I have been out of computer and blog world for about 2 weeks due to the monitor going out on home computer. I have felt so out of touch. Hopefully, by the first of next week monitor will be replaced and I will be back in full swing. I am posting today from a different computer.
I hope to catch up on all the blogs that I so enjoy reading this coming week.

Update: Andrea is doing great and loves college. She is beginning to get loaded down with her studies. I am working at the school as sub teacher till hopefully an aide position comes open. I am told this should happen in the next several weeks. Joey is still working out of town and is under a ton of stress! Keep him in your prayers!
Thanks for all the encouragement and especially prayers. Keep Praying for us.

Back to the quote... Do you have something that is weighing you down that you need to let go of? Don't seek ways of revenge or a way to hurt those that have hurt you. Forgive them and let it go. Sometimes we feel hurt and the person doesn't even know they have hurt us. Don't harbor bad feelings towards them. LET IT GO! You will feel so much better when you break those shackles that are holding you captive.

HAVE A FABULOUS WEEKEND!

Oh yea, for Andrea....ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!

Friday's Quote

2008-08-22T07:38:00.002-05:00

I found this in a card that I bought to give to Andrea. I thought it hit right on target with all the changes in both of our lives.

"As one door is closed in your life, a new one opens before you. Take a moment to pause briefly at this threshold, and know that you are moving forward and that is for the best. Approach this new door with great confidence in your heart, for you have so much to offer and so much to look forward to. Open each new door with trust, holding your hopes and dreams very near...
knowing that the world is waiting for the goodness and the love you carry with you.
M.E. Miro'

A good blog friend Cheryl told me once that "When God closes a door ...He opens a window".
The door closing for me was a job that I really enjoy. Due to lack of funding the job was not open at the time. Right now I am sub-teaching at the same school. A job maybe open that doesn't have benefits ( I need insurance since my husband is self-employed). I have prayed for guidance and while the decision is not yet clear...I know that God will guide me in the right direction. Do I take the job with no benefits or do I wait for funding to come in for my old job to open that has benefits( while waiting keep sub-teaching)? Pray for God to give me clear direction in this.

For Andrea....the door that closed was high school. She is moving into a different phase in her life. A phase that I know she will excell in. While we miss her like crazy...I know that she is safe and learning to prepare for her future. Pray for her to stay strong in her faith and to stay focused on her studies.

Thanks for all your comments, encouragement and especially prayers!!
Have a Fabulous Weekend!!

Thankful Thursday

2008-08-20T21:21:00.002-05:00

Today I am Thankful for:

Andrea

Joey

Cell Phones

Friends (including Blog friends)

Books

Chocolate

The Truth of God's Word

Prayer Warriors

Encouraging Words

Music (especially praise music)

Watermelon

Loren who fixed my computer

Not being scared to come in the house by myself at night

Alarm system on house that makes me feel safe

The peace that I have in my Savior...HE reminds me that I am never alone

For more thanks visit Iris at Sting My Heart.

Andrea's Big Move

2008-08-20T08:19:00.003-05:00

First...I would like to thank everyone that is praying for us during this time of change. Andrea is moved in at University of Alabama and doing great. Her classes start today...
Moving is not easy for anyone ...when you add that you are moving your one and only child to a huge University ...makes it seem so much worse.
Moving day was filled with all kinds of emotions. For Andrea, it was exciting..can't wait to get everything in place...independant, feeling all adult like.
When we arrived at the University it was mass of people everywhere trying to move their babies into a new place. I saw parents that had the "deer in the headlights look", parents that had their chest all puffed up with pride for their child, parents who where scared to death, parents who just wanted it over with, parents emotions on this day was WILD!
The dorm that Andrea moved into has 12 floors and 3 elevators. We had to sit in line just to pull up to the sidewalk. We unloaded my car first and then I moved to another parking lot. Joey stayed with Andrea's things while she checks in. When she returns she asks me to grab a load and stand in line for the elevator. The line for the elevator was through the parking lot!! I was so surprised!! We quickly realized this was not good. Andrea is on the 3rd floor so, we decided to take the stairs. 2 flights of stairs per floor.....which means 6 FLIGHTS OF STAIRS ...CARRYING ALL HER THINGS! Did I mention we had 2 cars loaded down? Let's just say after the 3rd or 4th trip...this overweight, out of shape, mom was huffing and puffing like you wouldn't believe! My arms were like jelly and my legs felt the same. I was so hot and needed to cool down so I skipped trip #5 and chatted with Andrea's roommate Rachel.
Everything was finally in the room and Joey was nice enough to help Andrea's other roommates carry their things in. Rachel was kind enough to give Andrea the bigger closet and we are so thankful...because Andrea needed the space. I think she carried about 50 pairs of shoes at the least! Andrea and I start working on putting her things away and decorating, Joey is in the living room talking to another Dad.
We go to a nice Mexican place to eat lunch and Joey talks to Andrea about how proud of her that we are and for her not to forget her raising. That she will see things she has never seen or been around and she will need to stand strong in her faith and walk away from these things. The whole time I am fighting the tears. I know once they start they want stop. Andrea then drives us around campus showing the places she will have class and etc. Joey and I both feel so proud and confident that Andrea is at the right place. She already knows her way around and feels good about it. Which helps us even more. We go back to the dorm and Andrea leans over and hugs her dad bye and I get out of the backseat and I give her a big hug and remind her to call. I kept my shades on because I didn't want her to see my huge tears. I get in the car to drive home and the emotions start to well up and I think I was going to loose it. Joey looks at me and tells me that she is going to be okay and not to cry...because he needs me to drive home. (Joey drove all night Thursday arrived home at 6:30 am on Friday and we left for Bama at 7:30). He was exhausted! So, I put my big girl panties on and only allowed a few tears. He slept all the way home! Andrea called twice that night and I was so excited to hear her voice. Thankfully, she has called everyday to let us know how she is doing. She is even calling Joey while he is on the road. We miss her like CRAZY!!!!
These next months will be an emotional roller coaster...I know that God will see us through each turn and curve and ups and downs. Continue to pray for us. Especially, Andrea ...she is already facing some of the things her Dad has talked to her about. Pray for her to stay strong in her faith and stayed focused.

Friday's Quote

2008-08-15T00:01:00.002-05:00

I have two quotes :

"Sucess is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome."
Booker T. Washington

"Show class, have pride and display character. If you do, winning will take care of itself."
Paul Bear Bryant

Today...Joey and I will be helping Andrea move into college at the University of Alabama. This is a new phase all three of us will be moving into.
She is so ready to move into this next phase of her life. Both cars are loaded down and ready to head for "T-Town"! We are Bama Bound!

When I read the quote by Booker T. Washington...it just seem to fit. In this last year our family has gone through so much. Alot of obstacles that I called storms. Thankfully, God saw us through each and every one!!
Paul "Bear" Bryant was a coach for the University of Alabama ...so I had to use one of his quotes. You can apply this to other things besides football. You can't hardly talk about University of Alabama without "Paul Bear Bryant's" name being mentioned at some point. I have a good story about Andrea's first visit to the University of Alabama that I will post on later.

Pray for us ....Andrea is thrilled and happy ....Joey and I while we are happy and proud of Andrea we are also sad.
Andrea is her Daddy's girl and My world!

Okay...it's your turn...do you have some advice for us or a favorite quote to share?

FYI: I have used Andrea's computer since Christmas ...our home computer was infected with what seems like a million viruses. It is being fixed...hopefully soon. So, I now don't have a computer at home... I guess that means I will be on a blog break. I hope by next week to post again. In the mean time.....when you think about us ....say a prayer.

When God Whispers Your Name

2008-08-14T09:03:00.003-05:00

"When I kept things to myself, I felt weak deep inside me."
Psalm 32:3

Ask yourself two questions. Is there any un-confessed sin in my life?...
Whether it's too small to be mentioned or too big to be forgiven isn't yours to decide. Your task is to be honest...
Are there any unsurrendered worries in my heart? "Give all your worries to him, because he cares about you"(1Peter5:7) The German word for worry means "to strangle" The Greek word means "to divide the mind".... Worry is a noose on the neck and a distraction of the mind, neither of which is beffitting for joy.

There are so many times I wish I could be like the birds in the air...they don't worry about shelter, food or anything. I know I am not the only one who worries about different things...but, sometimes life is just hard. Life changes ...new phases....are not so easy to take sometimes. Parents getting older....daughter growing up and moving to college...job changes for honey...need of job...all these things going on cause me to worry. I am trying to cast my cares to my Savior ....I can tell him all about it...it is the giving it all to HIM that is the hard part. I know that I am so blessed and have so much to be thankful....I don't want the worries of life to strangle my joy. I am going to work on this today....till this too shall pass. I am the daughter of the KING....HE loves me just as I am....for this I am so thankful.

So how about you? If you are worrying about something ...remember to turn it over to the one who told the ocean it could only come so far....who told the stars to shine in the evening...
Also, remember when ....God shuts a door ....HE opens a window!
Are you ready for the window to be opened?

U.S.A.

2008-08-11T22:33:00.004-05:00

Oh MY ! I am watching the Olympics tonight .....can I just say WOW! Team U.S.A gymnastics men's team is AWESOME! They are sticking their landing and making the other teams wonder what is going on.
Watching Michael Phelps swim is FABULOUS! I get tears in my eyes as I watch his mom cheer on her boy. I know she is just bursting with pride for her son. How sweet that he gives the flowers to his sisters.
I am so proud of our athletes. Listening and watching to their stories of injuries, training, how much time they spend in preparing for this time amazes me. They are dedicated!
I am glued to the tube! So glad they have commercial breaks.lol
I can almost feel the emotions all the way from Beijing!! Can you?

Talk to me...have you watched any of the Olympics this week?

Who rocks the house? U.S.A ROCKS THE HOUSE!!!!!

GO TEAM U.S.A!!!!

Friday's Quote

2008-08-08T08:53:00.002-05:00

For Friday's Quote ...I decided to use Back to School Quotes since some school in Alabama started this past Thursday and some will be this coming Monday.

"Education's purpose is to replace an empty mind with an open one.".
Malcom Forbes

"Education is when you read the find print. Experience is what you get if you don't."
Pete Seeger

"The important thing is to never stop questioning."
Albert Einstein

"I am always ready to learn although I don't always like being taught."
Winston Churchill

"As long as thre are tests, there will be prayer in school's."
Author Unknown

Do you have a favorite back to school quote?

Take a moment and prayer for our schools (teachers, administration, children, staff, traffic directors, lunch room staff, custodians, etc). Also, pray for our government leaders ...their budget decisions affect our schools. For the parents to be open to help their children when they are so tired from working all day. To give their children the attention they need.

HAVE A FABULOUS WEEKEND!!!!

When Christ Comes

2008-08-06T00:01:00.001-05:00

As a man rejoices over his new wife, so your God will rejoice over you.
Isaiah 62:5

Have you ever noticed the way a groom looks as his bride during the wedding? I have... If the light is just so...I can see a tiny reflection in his eyes. Her reflection. And the sight of her reminds him why he is here....
And such are precisely the feelings of Jesus. Look long enough into the eyes of our Savior and, there, too, you will see a bride.... And who is this bride for whom Jesus longs?
You are. You have captured the heart of God.

Brantley gave me this Inspirational Thought for Each Day of the Year and this thought is the one I turned to for today.. I was surprised at how it fit with what I have blogged about in the past several days. Of course I had to share.

What a great reminder that You and I have captured the heart of God! Is this AWESOME or what?

The Wedding!

2008-08-05T20:00:00.003-05:00

The wedding was so beautiful! Brantley was absolute breath taking in her gown. I am sure that is how Jonathan felt when he saw her walking down to meet him. The church was packed and so was the reception.
I think I have told before that Brantley is very special to our family. Her mom (Candace) and I are good friends as far back as high school. Our husbands went to school together...we ususally take camping trips together, sometimes vacations( actually this year was the first time we have not been on vacation together in several years). My daugher, Andrea and Candace's #2 Brooke are the same age. Brooke is leaving on Wednesday for college. Anyway, because our families are so close I was honored to be the Wedding Coordinator. This was my first time and I was soooo nervous. I felt like I was being mean on Friday night at the rehersal. Trying to keep adults focused is hard work. LOL On Saturday (Wedding Day) everything was going great till the grandparents start lining up and I have to get all emotional. I started to tear up and I was trying to hold it in. I knew when Candace saw me that she would start so I was trying to hide it. I kept breathing and trying not to look at anyone. That is very hard when you are watching and listening so you can tell them when to walk in. Candace saw me and was immediatly concerned that something had happened to Joey who was traveling to Utah. She asked me what was wrong and all I could do was shake my head. She finally realized that it was nothing with Joey and I was just emotional because of sweet Brantley getting married.
Bro. Hal tried to joke with me and said "If you are doing this with Brantley what are you going to do when Andrea gets married". I don't even want to think about this! I finally got a hold of myself after a snort or two. I was as shocked as Mike when that snort came out. Then I had to laugh. I got to hug Brantley and tell her I love her before she went down to meet her groom. Such a precious time. Everything went wonderful....the singing, the bride's court and groomsmen...the ring boy was entertaining and adorable. I even got the honor of driving Brantley and Jonathan to the reception.
Several people came up to me and said they didn't know that I did wedding coordinator professionally. I was sooo surprised and so was they when I told them this was my first!!!
Will I do it again? Yes, I really had a great time and enjoyed it. Being emotionally attached to the bride was a challenge... we survived snort and all. LOL I was surprised at the emotions I had ... I thought I had everything under control...then the tears had to come. It is okay...we will laugh about it someday...actually we already have.
Brantley will always be special to us ... We are very proud of both Brantley and Jonathan.

Do you have a wedding funny or mishap to tell...if so I would love to hear it.

Thanks for all the comments on Friday's Quote and the encouragment... I really needed it and it felt good to read all the positive comments.

Pray for me...this week is a hard one. Andrea leaves next Friday for University of Alabama and I am still in need of a job.
When God closes a door HE opens a window. Someone told me this (I think Cheryl) and I keep reminding myself of this everyday.

Friday's Quote

2008-08-01T07:54:00.003-05:00

Love....tomorrow my friend's oldest daughter is getting married. I am wedding coordinator...this is my first time to do this. I am was honored to be asked. Actually, I thought it was a joke at first. I laughed....she was serious.... there is no way I could say no to her.
Brantley is so precious to my family. In so many ways Brantley and Andrea are so a like.
We are very proud of Brantley!! Because of the wedding tomorrow I decided to do some quotes on love.

Love is, above all else, the gift of oneself.
Jean Anouilh
(1910-1987)

To Love is to receive a glimpse of Heaven.
Karen Sunde

Love doesn't make the world go around, love is what makes the ride worthwhile.
source unknown

Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant,
does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, belives all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails;
1 Corinthians 13: 4-8a
New American Standard Bible

Do you have a favorite quote on love?
Do you have any words of wisdom that I can pass on to Brantley tomorrow?

Pray for beautiful cooler weather, for the parents, bride and groom, wedding party, photographer, reception, safe travels....and especially the wedding coordinator (me).

Did I tell you this is my first wedding to coordinate? can you tell I am nervous?
I got a new to the ankles dress and strapy shoes... I am excited, nervous...and tonight about 7 pm I will be a wild woman ....wanting to please the bride. Did I tell you how precious she is to our family? We love Brantley like she was one of our own. I am going to stop now....before I really work my self into a frenzy!

Oh ...I almost forgot. This is actually my 100th post. I will post 100 things about me soon! I know you don't want to miss that!!

Thankful Thursday!

2008-07-31T08:07:00.001-05:00

Today I am Thankful for:FamilyFriendsSpending time with AndreaForgivinessA Heavenly Father that loves me just as I am Cell Phones My Mom who came to visit for a few daysWatermelon

For more Thankful Thursday's visit Iris at Sting My Heart!

Wordless Wednesday # 24

2008-07-30T07:25:00.003-05:00

Andrea and friends at last year's Watermelon Party for Football players and Cheerleaders.

Me and my gang...is a great title for this picture. Great times ....Great memories.

Award!

2008-07-26T16:41:00.003-05:00

I am so excited to receive this award from Amy at Sign Miracles and Wonders.
The Art Y Pico award is given to those who inspire others with their creative energy and talents in writing, artwork, design or contributions to the blogging community. It originated here

What is the meaning of the expression: And basically, ironically, it translates into a wonderful phrase in Mexico, “lo maximo.” LOL! It will never find its counterpart in English, but if it HAD to, it would be something like, Wow. The Best Art. Over the top. I got this infor off the Art Y Pico blog.

As a recipient of these awards, I have been asked to share each award with five blogs that bless me. I have chosen:

Lisa @ Blessed with Grace

Bobbie @ 40 Shades of Pink

Christina @ All That Blog

Tracy @ Seed Thoughts

Heather @ Faithful Froggers

I hope that each of these ladies are as excited as I am! There are so many blogs that I enjoy reading that it was hard to make a decision on which to choose. Congratulations friends!Your “official instructions” follow. Now go forth and share the love! To the recipients of the award...pick five blogs you consider deserving of this award, whether for creativity, design, interesting material, or contributions to the blogging community, no matter what language. Name each nominee and link to his/her blog. Show the award and include the name (and link to his/her blog) of whoever presented you with this award.Link to the Arte y Pico blog so everyone knows the origin of this award. Post these rules.

Congratulations Ladies!!!

Friday's Quote

2008-07-25T07:35:00.003-05:00

"The safest place to be is within the will of God"
Anonymos

Not my will but God's will. This is so hard sometimes. We want what we want and when we want it. Sometimes what we want is not good for us and then we realize later I made a mistake. I should have listened to God.
I pray for God's will to be done in my life...but do I really allow it to be done?

What about you ...do you allow God's will to be done or do you want it to be your way?

Thankful Thursday!

2008-07-24T09:30:00.002-05:00

Today I am Thankful for:

Long soaks in the bathtub.

Laughter....Andrea had friends over last night and it was good to hear all the girls laughing and having fun...most of them will be leaving for college soon.

Radio that is playing in my kitchen

Books...I have read some really good ones this summer.

Dentist...especially Dr. Dreamy aka Dr. Thomas who performed a root canal for me on Monday.

Happy Gas...that the dentist gave me to calm me down. I hate to admit ...I am terrified of the denitst!

The dental assistant ...She was AWESOME..she could sense when I would get upset and calm me down.

Andrea

Joey ...he works so hard for our family.

Kids Kamp last week 16 children ask Jesus into their hearts!

All the volunteers who helped with Kids Kamp.

Friends who encourage me and pray with me. This includes Blog friends!!

Prayer Warriors

Answered Prayers

Butter Pecan Ice cream! Yum Yum!!!

Visit Iris at Sting my Heart for more Thankful Thursday!

JESUS ... is HE in you?

2008-07-20T18:39:00.008-05:00

That was the theme for our Kids Kamp 08 this year at Calera Baptist Church. I probably told you this before ....I am head of the committee of the children's team at my church. One of our responsibilities is to plan theme, t-shirt colors and design, get volunteers, live band, games indoor and outdoor, food and plenty of volunteers, etc for our annual Kids Kamp. The committee puts in alot of prayer, time and work. They are great to work with. They truly have a heart for children. This was our 15th year, however this was probably my 5 year to be involved and my 2nd to be on the planning committee. This is ALOT of work. BUT WELL WORTH IT!!

The children register. .1st -6th grade spend Friday and Saturday night and Day Campers are from 4 years to K. We have 3 boy and 3 girl cabins. The kamp is located about 4 miles from our church at Rolling Hills Camp. On Sunday we take the children to our church and have worship service where they all are on stage in their shirts and singing the songs we learned and motions ...they stay on stage during minister time and alot of them will go to sleep. They are so precious sitting on stage....it brings tears to my eyes each year when I see this.

Back to our theme.The front of shirt has our Kids Kamp with church logo & 2008 ... on the back of the shirt it has ... JESUS is HE in you... the color is purple with a lightning bolt in 2tone orange out lined in white and black. With big bold green letters going across saying JESUS...is HE in you.

At the bottom it has our scripture reference which is John 6:35 "Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst.

We had gatorade all over campus in coolers for the children to drink and we would talk to them about how it quenches our thirst and relate it to the scripture. IT WAS AWESOME! The children loved it and had so much fun. You can go to our website probably by the end of the week and it will have pictures of all that was going on and some of the leaders and children.

We have a slide show for the parents to see on Sunday when they come to Sunday morning worship to pick up their darlings. This gives them an opportunity to see how much fun we have.

It is also a perfect opportunity to witness to their parents. We had a family to get saved several years ago when their son attended Kids Kamp and when the pastor gave the invitation the father came forward and wanted what his son had recieved. WOW....God is so good. This family works in our church and Kids Kamp.

As some of you know .....on Thursday evening I got a terrible toothache. The pain to the point of tears. On Friday....I woke up to no pain and feeling good. Saturday evening toothache again. Some precious ladies found me an antibiotic to start and I had something to take for pain. I didn't have to spend the night this year ...but due to the fact that my neice was there ....I wanted to be with her(this was her 1st year to get to attend). I stayed...others tried to take me home ...but I refused. I can be stubborn sometimes. Anyway....I am so glad I didn't leave! Celebration on Saturday night was AWESOME... All 1st - 6th graders are in the gym and we are singing songs, bouncing around enjoying the time. Bro. Hal talks to the children about having Jesus in your heart and how you can invite Jesus into your heart. We bowed our heads to pray and while the heads were bowed he asked if you asked Jesus into your heart to raise your hand. Then at the end of service he told the children ... if you raised your hand when you get with your cabin leader tell them and they will bring you to the front as the other are leaving to cabins.

WE HAD 16 CHILDREN TO ASK JESUS INTO THEIR HEARTS! HOW AWESOME IT THAT!! GOD IS SOOOO GOOD!

Through the last months we (children's team) have gone through different things in our life ...times when we would want to give up or quit the team. Even this week with toothaches, husbands out of town, frustration, work, high levels of stress of planning and wanting things to be perfect for the children....you know last minute details. Because we keep encouraging each other and we would not let each other give up we allowed God to use us for these children! This is not about us this is about GOD! WE GIVE GOD THE GLORY!

Kids Kamp 08 is successful because of awesome volunteers who have a heart for God and love children. MOST IMPORTANT BECAUSE GOD IS IN OUR MIDST. BECAUSE HE IS THE BREAD OF LIFE...WE WILL NEVER GO HUNGRY ....ALL WE HAVE TO DO IS BELIEVE AND HE WILL QUENCH OUR THRIST!

Example: working outside 96degrees...it is hot, you are sweating and your mouth is so dry. You are so thristy and all you want is a big tall glass ice water...you know when you take a drink you can feel it all the way down to your stomach...your mouth can't wait for you to quench the thirst. When you take the first drink....ahahah ...feels so good...wet, cold and just what you need.
That is how God is to us. Only HE can quench our thirst. (my pharaphase from Bro. Hal).

Is it worth it? YES 100 times YES!!! 16 children giving their hearts to GOD!

on a side note: Pray for me....I am going to the dentist tomorrow ....I am terrified of the dentist! Not looking forward to going....but can't handle the pain any longer. Also, pray for our team....each of us have things going on in our lives. Especially one who has a wedding in a couple of weeks. Her oldest is getting married and 2nd daugher is leaving the next week for college.
Talk about STRESS! She is stressed!
Thanks to those who prayed for my mouth ...I know God heard your prayers. For me to wake up on Friday with no pain and make it through most of the camp is an answered prayer!

Satan is roaming to and fro...seeking whom he may devour....GREATER IS HE THAT IS IN ME AND HE THAT IS IN THE WORLD!!!

A question....JESUS....IS HE IN YOU???

Thankful Thursday!

2008-07-17T07:56:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for:

That I can cast my cares to my Savior.

Spending time with Aunts and Uncles from out of state that came to visit my Mom.

My sister who had a fish fry with the fish that she caught while on vacation on the West Coast.

Butterfinger cake....yum yum

My Aunt Sadie that lives in Florida staying a week to spend time with my Mom.

My Mom who always takes the time to talk to me.

Friends

My husband who tries to be understanding....while he is lost on dirt roads in Nebraska.

Answered prayers.

That in the midst of a storm ...God gives me peace.

All the volunteers who are helping with Kids Kamp this weekend.

We have 80+ children registerd for Kids Kamp.

The Children's Team that I am a part of who plans the Kids Kamp each year. This is a LOT of work and I am so thankful that our team works great together.

My neice Bralynn who has a birthday this weekend.

My neice Ashlynn who is getting to spend the weekend with me at Kids Kamp.

Andrea (my daughter) is going to work with Day Kampers this weekend.

Everyday with you Lord ...is sweeter than the day before. This is a song the choir has sang I think 2 times...But, this week I have been singing this as I get up. I am thankful for the choir and the director who bless my heart with praises each Sunday.

I am thankful that I have a friend in Jesus...I can talk to HIM anytime, anywhere and HE will always be there to listen. When I call on Jesus I don't get an answer machine or voice mail. HE is with me....therefore I am never alone.

For more thanks visit Iris at Sting My Heart

Wordless Wednesday # 23

2008-07-16T07:41:00.010-05:00

Friends....Andrea, Hillary, Alexis and Lauren have been friends probably since beginning of elementary school. In about a month they will be going different directions for college. They will be making new friends and moving on with life. I hope they will always stay in touch. True friends are not so easy to find.

Holding On...

2008-07-15T00:01:00.001-05:00

Encourage Yourself

We all face trials and difficult seasons in life. The key to victory during these times is to stay encouraged. Although it's important to be lifed up by our friends, the best way to stay encouraged is to encourage ourselves!

For more visit with me today at: Holding on to the truth....

Holding on..
Darlene

SURPRISE!!

2008-07-14T16:32:00.002-05:00

Today has been one of those days that you enjoy, but is tiring. I went to work at the church for a little while to help out with all the phone calls for Kids Kamp that will be this weekend. Went to lunch with a friend. Joey called and needed me to pick him up in Fultondale. Headed to pick him up and get to Hoover and he calls to tell me never mind! So, I head home and fill out some paper work for Andrea (college stuff) ....then I take the time to read my blog. I am so glad I did! I have received my very first blog award!! YeaH!!! I am excited.!!!! Cheryl from :Hope for Each Day has honored my with this award! It is called: Arte y Pico (meaning "Peak of Art")

What is the meaning of the expression: And basically, ironically, it translates into a wonderful phrase in Mexico, “lo maximo.” LOL! It will never find its counterpart in English, but if it HAD to, it would be something like, Wow. The Best Art. Over the top. I got this info off of the Arte y pico blog.

Cheryl is a SWEET GODLY WOMAN who has a heart for God! I met her through blog land . I enjoy reading her blogs and encouraging words. I visit her blog each day and encourage you to check her out at Hope for Each Day .You will be blessed!

As a recipient of these awards, I have been asked to share each award with five blogs that bless me. I have chosen:

Kimberly @ A Planting for the Lord
Deborah @ Bout Crazy
Lori @ Encouragement From My Heart
Krista @ Krista's Kronicles and Coffee Talk
Dee Dee @ No Greater Joy

I hope that each of these ladies are as excited as I am! There are so many blogs that I enjoy reading that it was hard to make a decision on which to choose.
Congratulations friends!Your “official instructions” follow. Now go forth and share the love! To the recipients of the award...pick five blogs you consider deserving of this award, whether for creativity, design, interesting material, or contributions to the blogging community, no matter what language. Name each nominee and link to his/her blog. Show the award and include the name (and link to his/her blog) of whoever presented you with this award.Link to the Arte y Pico blog so everyone knows the origin of this award. Post these rules.

Congratulations Ladies!!!

Friday's Quote

2008-07-11T08:19:00.002-05:00

"A rule I have had for year's is : to treat the Lord Jesus Christ as a personal friend. He is not a creed, a mere doctrine, but it is HE Himself we have."
Dwight L. Moody
1837-1899 American Evanjelist

HE is my friend. How about you..... Do you consider HIM your friend?

Thankful Thursday!

2008-07-10T07:26:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for:

Answered Prayers

My husband that works so hard to provide for our family.

Friends

Sunshine and the breeze across my face.

My Heavenly Father who never gives up on me.

Family

Unexpected phone calls from friends who you haven't talked to in a long time.

Visit Iris for more Thankful Thursdays at Sting my Heart.

Wordless Wednesday # 22

2008-07-09T08:12:00.004-05:00

This is Andrea and her prom date Paul. They are good friends and I love this picture. It captures both of them having a great time and dancing.
Proms are so much fun. I was talking to a friend the other day...the subject of prom came up and how much fun we had. This brought back fun memories ....which made me look at Andrea's pictures again. Hope you enjoy the picture.