Not sure why, but my Dad has been on my mind lately.

He passed away in 1988, and there are many reasons to miss him. But I think the most evident thing for me is the "I wish he were here to see my kids" reason.

I'm so proud of my kids, and I know he would get a kick out of them, also.

He was a quiet man. Studied and read and studied and read...in fact, he used to drive me crazy wanting to talk about the Bible. I wish now that I had engaged him more and listened more and learned more. But, I wasn't ready to hear all that he was saying.

Here's the thing I remember about him that impressed me most.

He put together this Saturday morning study/prayer time with other people. Not other c of c people, but people who just simply loved the Lord as he did.

I remember specifically there was somebody of the pentecostal area, a catholic man, and a one-cup church of Christ man, and then my Dad. I think there were others here and there, but those 4 were the "heart" of the prayer group.

It wasn't common practice in those days to "fellowship" with people outside of the c of c realm...at least not fellowship freely with the understanding that all have equal access to the Kingdom of Heaven. My Dad did. He gave the church of Christ a good name. I was proud of him for that...still am.

I'm so grateful we grew up in a home that didn't say we were the only "right" or "saved" ones.

I do miss my Dad. But, honestly, if you knew him, you knew he lived his life just to meet God. He wasn't interested in earth...at all. So, selfishly, I wish he had stuck around a little longer, but I know he's where he longed to be.

Those of you who read my blog regularly remember around the first part of November I said that the Henderson house had hit a blip in the 'ole radar. I told you I could explain later, but asked you to pray in the mean time for our family.

Along with a receptionist, a marketing gal, and a guy or two from the warehouse, Lex was "let go" from his job. In California, we have this thing called "at will". Some other states may have it but I know CA does because the last two employers of Lex has used it. What it means is that they can fire you for no reason. Basically, you're costing them too much money or they are just tired of looking at your face or whatever...they can fire you for no reason.

Now, those of you who know Lex know he is about the hardest working individual there is. He never misses a day of work, is always on time, always stays late to finish whatever needs to be finished, and always has a positive attitude.

This one hurt. He was so discouraged because all the customers he dealt with loved him. The reps in the other parts of the country would call and only talk to him. They had shining letters in his file from people so pleased with his service. So, what happened?

We're not positive what happened because they don't have to tell you...but I'll give you my personal "take" on it:

Lex's blood pressure was through the roof. He was working himself into a slow death. He was sleeping an average of 3.5 - 4 hours a night. He would never have quit...it's not the thing to do when you're supporting a family.

So, was Christmas tight? Only financially. Otherwise, it was beautiful. Is it hard to pay all the bills this month? Sure...but what's new about that. I can cut back.

Here's the real test...
Does my husband love me?
Are my children healthy?
Do I have friends that love me?
Am I headed for heaven?

Here are the answers...
more today than yesterday
healthy and Godly
more than I can count
ABSOLUTELY!

So, thanks God. Once again, you saved us from ourselves and helped us see what is most important.

P.S. After about 6 weeks, the motorcycle shop put him on full time as their Service Manager. He'll enjoy that until something better comes along...

It has begun...a little earlier than usual, but begun it has!

It's the "waking-up-at-crazy-hours-of-the-morning-unable-to-go-back-to-sleep-before-ZOE" time.

This morning my eyes opened at about 4:20. Totally wide awake. My brain going 100 miles per hour about all that has to be done before and to prepare for the ZOE Conference.

So, since it is almost 9:00 pm, I am going to call it a day.

I've learned to just go with it. I will wake up, there is nothing I can do to stop it. It's like telling your brain not to think. It just doesn't happen.

But here's the kicker...I hate to be awake alone. So, poor Lex gets to hear all my thoughts at crazy hours of the morning.

It's at times like that I realize God knew exactly what He was doing when he placed us together. Lex is a wonderful partner. Supportive, patient, understanding, and always on my side. So, on those days when I think, "hhmmm, he could be a little more romantic", I'll stop and remember that I've been waking him up just so I don't have to be awake alone.

Blessings to you all...

Christmas was nice. It really felt like the day was endless...that's not a bad thing...but endless, none-the-less.

Woke up at 4:00 am (as I'm sure many people did), not because I had little kids waiting for Santa (which, by the way, I miss very much), but because I needed to be ready in case my big teenagers wanted to at least check out their stockings before church. (which they did).

I am at church by 7:00 on Sunday mornings, to get ready for the Praise Team which arrives by 7:30.

Church was over...headed to our house where Lex made waffles for my brother and wife and son, my family, my big brother and his daughter, and my mom. Fun...

It impressed me how patient my nephew was. There stood the tree with lots of presents, but Uncle Lex's waffles were what he wanted. (actually, he ate more waffle than I did! He was a hungry boy!)

We opened presents, enjoyed each other, and then split to different locations for a couple of hours until time to meet up at my Mom's house for dinner. Had a wonderful dinner and then back home to crash. Long day...but great day.

Church was wonderful. Lots of energy, enthusiasm, excitement. We had people bring "gifts" for the Children's Ministries and then had the kiddos gather them and bring them to the stage where the ministry leaders were waiting to thank and love on them. It was so sweet.

Steven did a good job...as always. It was good to be together.

My favorite part of this Christmas, though, was Friday night. Lex and I had taken the kids shopping so they could by gifts for the family. Every year, Ashley and Avery put their own money together and buy things for Grandma's, Uncles, Aunts, Cousins, Lex and I, and each other.

Avery told me he wanted to get Ashley something "special" this year. (Avery tends to be kind of thrifty...very calculating with his money.) Avery is a saver. He tithes, saves, and spends wisely. I'm very proud of him for this.

So, when he said something "special", I didn't know what that meant. We talked, talked, talked, and I just wasn't getting it. Actually, he wasn't saying much. Until finally, I asked him..."what are you wanting to spend on her?" His answer shocked me.

I told him he didn't need to spend that much on her. Not necessary. He could find great things for far less than what he was talking about. Finally, he looked me square in the eye and said, "Mom, I like Ashley. And this is her last year at home."

YIKES! Did he have to remind me? So, on to Macy's we went where he found her the cutest, coolest, most beloved COACH Purse you've ever seen. (Those of you who know what that is, please comment.)

She saved his gift to open last. It's like she knew somehow he had done something special. When she opened it, not only did she gasp, but so did my niece, my sister-in-law, and, of course, I was crying a bit.

Avery loved the reaction from everybody. "Yes! I did good!", he said.

He did great.

The sweetest moment was the hug between them.

They are going to miss each other.

I decided something today...but before I tell you what I've decided, let me tell you about this week.

Great week. A bit of a "downer" time on Monday and Tuesday which is typical after a Musical or ZOE or anything you put months into preparing. It's over in an hour or a weekend. But, I'm used to it, and so is my family so they treat me gently the days following.

Life goes on, however, and so does the need to Christmas shop, plan worship for Sunday, continue ZOE preparations, try to get your house ready for Christmas, and so on and so on.

Lex and I managed to sneak in a few hours to shop together for the kids. A snippet of time here and there. Nothing fun and romantic like the "old days"...whatever the heck that means. Just times of necessity and "let's get this done quickly before we have to be at the next thing" kind of deal.

Our house is finally looking like Christmas after I made the big mistake of asking "Do you kids even want to put a tree up this year?" Of course, I plead insanity because it was Monday (the dark day after the Musical) that I asked this question. I knew I had made a HUGE error in judgment when my sweet daughter began her response by saying..."The fact that you would even ask that question..." (it went on from there) So, the tree went up, and I'm so glad it did.

Lex said it looks like a Christmas Elf exploded in our home. That's a compliment.

Avery has taken Driver's Education all this week and Ashley has worked so between trying to work and be the perfect Christmas wife and mother, I've driven them back and forth all week...in "week before Christmas" traffic.

Have you read anything yet about all the baking I've done? No. Why? you ask...Why hasn't this woman who bakes when she's happy, bakes when she's nervous, bakes when she's sad...why hasn't she baked?

I've not had one second to bake.

One of my favorite things about the holidays is...you guessed it...baking. Baking and visiting people and sharing the baked yummies. Not this year. In fact, not since I've had a Christmas Musical has the baking been done to my satisfaction. (this will be the 4th year).

I stood looking at all the sugar, flour, choc chips, white choc, peppermint sticks, butter, peanut butter, just waiting to be made into baskets of love for our friends and here's what I decided. (bet you thought I'd never get to the point...)

I'm going to be a New Year's baker. Yes...New Year goodies. I know Christmas is the traditional time, but I can't do it...so, the week between Christmas and New Year, I will bake and share with my friends. The only difference will be when I deliver it I will say Happy New Year instead of Merry Christmas!

I feel better.

There were moments on Thursday night and Saturday morning that I doubted the Musical would come together. I thought things like, "well, that's o.k., it will be o.k., the audience won't realize it if we blow it here or there..."

Ultimately, I knew God was in charge. I prayed for each heart that would participate, each voice to be clear, each person present in the audience to have a soft heart receptive to what God wanted to share with them during that hour. I prayed that the sound and video equipment would hold on and not throw us any curves. But above all, I prayed that God would be glorified and honored in what was going on.

The sound guys were flawless.

The children were adorable and sang "Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Your love makes me sing!" with all their heart and voice.

The narrators said their words with precision and passion.

The singers were beautiful both in voice and heart. (and looked like a million bucks on top of it all!)

Every soloist did their very best.

But, above all, I believe God was pleased, honored, glorified.

Somebody said it was so fun to watch us all love each other through song. They said that our unity and support for each other is encouraging and blesses them as well as our obvious love for the Creator. That's a compliment. Because ultimately, what are the two greatest commandments? Love God, Love each other.

So, beyond all the good that happened, the success comes through in our love for God and each other.

Thank you for your prayers. I wish you all could have been here.

Wednesday...
Almost half-way through this exciting nerve filled week.

People are so sweet..."are you doing o.k., Sandra?" "Are you getting nervous, Sandra?" They have a genuine concern for the health of my spirit and mind. The great news is, I'm doing fine. Not perfect...a few panics every once in a while, but really fine.

It's fun to grow old enough to see actual spiritual growth in yourself. To know, without a doubt that a few years ago, you'd be a basket case the week before a musical. But not this year. Each year gets better. I'm actually excited...can hardly wait for the moment we get to present this message. Prayerful for those in attendance, hopeful that a message will pierce through someone's calloused heart, confident that God/Jesus/Spirit will not be just a quiet presence in the corner, but an obvious element to the evening.

I had a gentleman from the congregation call me today and ask if he brings a basket full of ingredients for a Christmas dinner and a Target gift card, will I please deliver it to a family he knows is struggling. I cried. (it really doesn't take much...and, he didn't know I cried).

The family he wants to deliver to is a great family. They come faithfully...Dad sings on the praise team often, but recently has had to step out of the music ministry because he's working nights and just isn't able to handle that with rehearsals. He can barely get himself to church because of exhaustion. He was recently laid off from that job because it was seasonal, so now he's been without work at all for a couple of weeks.

There are so many people who struggle in so many different ways, and this time of year, the struggles seem to be magnified. It's difficult to digest sometimes, and we feel overwhelmed at the grief, depression, sadness, and pain people are feeling. But, for one guy to do one thing for one family is exactly what should be done. I tend to stand around and pace and say "I can't fix it all", but one person reaching out to one person takes care of one need if even for a day or two.

Here's to hoping and praying God will show you just one need this week that needs your attention. One thing you can do to make a tiny difference in someone's heart. One little gift that will lift their spirits and help them see the presence of God in their life.

Blessings to you all.

It is the week before the big Christmas Musical! Very exciting. We had a great rehearsal last night thanks to our amazing "tech team".

Last Sunday (the 4th), we had every imaginable problem with every imaginable thing imaginable! It was deflating, scary, frustrating, and necessary.

When we have rehearsal times like that, it forces me, once again to say..."Oh...yes...God, you are in control of this!" So, all week long I gave it up over and over and over. I'm a slow learner. Or, maybe God just sees me as teachable. That's a good thing. I don't ever want to think "I got it".

But last night was beyond us. It's so exciting to see God equip people to do things beyond what we could have done alone or without Him. It's a wonderful lesson for all involved.

I had the privilege of attending 3 concerts in the past week for my daughter. She plays French Horn, so there was the Wind Ensemble concert. Beautiful. She performs vocally, so there was the Vocal Jazz concert. Very entertaining. And, of course there was the proper Chamber Choir concert. Very impressive. I sat there realizing I've been watching some of these kids for as long as I've been watching Ashley. Some of those big strong young men started with her in elementary school and have continued together...bound together in their love of music and performing and learning. O.K., yes, I cried a bit. It's something to see these young people stand so tall, confident, and accomplished. These people have spent time in my home, slept on my couch, eaten my cookies/brownies/homemade mac'n'cheese...

I was very proud. Proud to have the daughter I have, proud of her choice of friends, proud to have been a part of their development in a tiny way.

As her Senior year approaches the half way mark, I'm proud, sad, proud, sad... But, mostly proud.

This week is also Finals for both my kids. So, pray for us this week. I am obviously deep in Christmas Musical prep, but my kids need a mom who is calm and supportive and nurturing. That's my first responsibility. Help me keep that focus this week.

Blessings to all of you!

People handle many things at once all the time. "Multi-tasking" is an often used word these days. To be able to talk on your cell phone, answer an IM (Instant Message) on your computer, apply mascara, and fold a load of towels at the same time is just the norm in this crazy world.

But, as Steve mentioned in his last comment on my blog, I am trying to do many things at once and do them to a degree of excellence that probably isn't possible. Although, I'll die trying.

The weekly worship time is taking more and more time and effort because God is showing us (the Worship Committee) more and more ways to be effective...which takes more thought, more preparation, more phone calling, more set up. It's wonderful.

The Christmas Musical is outstanding. Not because of me, but because this church is full of gifted people who don't mind giving of their time and talents to put on a great production. However, the time thing...oh my...it takes heaps of time.

The ZOE West Coast Conference is coming rapidly. January 20 - 22 is the conference. If you're able, you will be blessed to be here. Greg, you need to come! I know you've gone to Nashville for it, you could at least come this far! If any of you are able, in all seriousness, you will be blessed beyond your greatest imagination. For more information, or to register before the early registration deadline, go to www.zoegroup.org

I'm teaching a 3 session (which translates to 3 hours and 45 minutes) class this year (which is also taking special time and prep) at the Fresno conference titled "Worship 101". Basically, how to get started. What to do if you're a small church, or a church just beginning to look at praise teams, different arrangements of songs, new songs, new ways to present, etc. Some churches have jumped on this "contemporary or emerging" worship years ago and are so far out of reach of some smaller or just starting churches, it frustrates the people trying to get started. We need to always have a beginning class. Similar to our Sunday morning assembly time. What if we started 40 years ago teaching and progressed from there and never went back to teach the basics? Obviously, we would lose people.

Anyway, then there's the women's retreat in February that I'm leading worship for that has some specific needs.

Along with that, as I've told you in a former blog, we've hit "blips" in the Henderson household and seem to continue hitting them. Some of you may know them better as meyluz OR hmkkyzm, but whatever you want to call them, they're time consuming and overwhelming and require daily prayer and a check of faith.

(anybody want to congratulate me on my first word verification use?)

So, I do apologize for the long periods of absence. Your comments are so precious and important to me. I appreciate you continuing to check my blog. I will try to set aside time more consistently.

Pray for my family. My husband is not totally healthy, in fact, he's a mess. My sweet daughter is in over her head with school and college prep. She takes the SAT Saturday morning, and my Avery is back on the NASA rocket project this year and is the lead guy.

Bless you...

Thanksgiving was wonderful. We were at my Mom's and enjoyed the day with my favorite Aunt and Uncle, a niece and her fiance, a friend from the past and with her a new friend, and my big brother, along with Lex, the kids and I. Steve and Lisa and James were with her family this year.

We laughed, ate, groaned, ate more, and laughed more. It never fails that when we are all around my Mom's table, we end up talking about the past. Funny stories, silly things that happened, and always something comes up that my Mom didn't know about. She's either a great actress, or we really did pull the wool over her eyes from time to time. Hard to believe. I thought she knew everything.

It makes me wonder what it will be like when I'm 70ish and sitting around the table with my kids and grandkids and who knows who. Will they tell me things I didn't know?

Ultimately, what comes out of those days is the overwhelming thought that we are so blessed. Blessed to have each other, blessed to be in a country that allows so many freedoms, and above all, blessed to be a child of God.

I hope your day was wonderful.

The Fresno State vs. USC game was set to come on our T.V. in about 2 hours. Lex's goal was to finish work at 5:00 and get home in time to have some dinner and be comfortably in his chair for the 7:15 kick off...

My cell phone rings, it's Hobbytown which is where Avery works. So, I pick up my phone and say "Hey sugar, what's up."

It's silent on the other end for far too long. "Hello?" I say again.

"oh, hey, is this Avery's Mom?"

My stomach dropped. I knew something was not quite right. It wasn't Avery calling me.

"This is Justin from Hobbytown" (Avery's boss)

"Yes...Hey Justin. What's up?"

"Well, first I just want to say it's not too bad...I mean, Avery's going to be o.k....I mean, he is o.k."

YIKES...JUST TELL ME! I wanted to scream, but didn't.

It seems my son had a bit of a tangle with the electric drill. The flat head drill ended up in his thumb...going through the nail and causing enough pain to actually turn my son's face green with pain. That, according to his boss, was the scariest part. Seeing somebody's face actually have a green color to it because it hurt so bad.

I asked to talk to him and was glad to hear his sweet voice. I told him Dad was just now leaving work and I'd send him to get him right away. He was going to have to go to emergency and get a tetanus shot. It was 5:00 and Avery typically doesn't get off until 7:30...so he turns to his boss and says, "Is it o.k. if I get off early?"

What a goofball! You just had an electric drill go through your thumb! Of course you can go home!

I called Lex, explained the situation and he took off right away to get him. It should have taken him about 15 minutes to get there...it took him 6. I don't even want to know how fast he was driving!

The nurse asked Avery on a scale of 1 to 10, how bad is the pain. He told her about a 4.83. If you know Avery, you know he really meant that. He told me later, "well, Mom, it wasn't a 5 but it was definitely worse than a 4."

They sat there for about 4 hours. Finally, he got in to get his shot and they sent him on his way.

Lex called and said they were finally on their way home and they were starving. That was good to hear.

Warmed up their dinner just in time for them to sit down and watch the last quarter of the game.

There are some things more important than any thing else. Your kids are up there in the top slots...

Wednesday is typically a very long day. It's the day I finish the order of worship and get it emailed to all participants, elders, and bulletin editor. Copy all the music, put it together in bound books for the Praise Team, and rehearse with them during class time this evening. I usually have to "ride the wave" on Wednesday. It doesn't matter what I have planned, things usually don't go like I expect. I'm learning to accept that.

Today, I had an outside appointment, which I try to avoid at all costs, but couldn't avoid today. When I finished at about 12:30, my stomach said to eat but my brain said I don't have time. I called to chat with my husband as I was driving and we decided to meet somewhere for a quick lunch. After a lengthy discussion of where that somewhere would be, we ended up at Burger King.

I'm more of a
"sit-down-and-bring-me-my-food-in-the-quiet-calm-dimly-lit-place"
kind of person.

But, for today, Burger King it is.

So, we're sitting there eating our Whopper's with fries (very healthy) and all of a sudden, a million kids start pouring into the place. Middle school type kids. Goofy, loud, laughing, having a blast, kids.

I tend to shrink in situations like this if I'm particularly busy and feeling overwhelmed anyway, but not Lex. He thrives in this atmosphere.

The young lady (the 13 year old) who was baptized Sunday saw him and with a bright beautiful smile said, "Hey! Hi!"

Lex responded with the same kind of enthusiasm and then looked at me and said,
"Aren't you glad we came here?"

He's so weird.

So, what do you prefer? Sit down or Fast food?

A young lady (13 years old) had called during the week and said she was wanting to be baptized this Sunday. Wonderful. The plans were set in motion. She came prepared for the morning with no make-up, hair in a pony tail, wearing flip-flops. Her Mom had with her a bag of "stuff". Change of clothes, brush, towels, etc.

When the song was sung, she made her move. Other young girls followed to "help" her, along with her Mom and one of our most faithful and beautiful "senior" women. I couldn't help but wonder how many times this women had been on this journey with people. I remember her being in the back with me when I was baptized.

The song was over, Communion was shared, and then we all were blessed to witness this young girl offer her life to God through baptism. It was beautiful and innocent and full of good things.

During Communion, before this baptism took place, I watched a young lady make her way to one of our sweet Elders. She quietly kneeled down, said something to him, and he moved over to make a place for her on his pew. He sat with his arm around her, both of them continuing to be engaged in what was taking place. She leaned over and said something to him, they talked, she cried, he kept holding on to her and displayed patience as she talked a little bit at a time to him...

The assembly time was officially over, but worship continued as they sat and cried and prayed and talked. Finally, he announced she wanted to be baptized. Those who were still in the auditorium stayed and some went to get others who had gone on to class. We've known this girl since she was tiny and her Mom came as a young single mother to our College age class.

She grew up, took some wrong turns, ended up in an abusive relationship. She and her two baby girls left that relationship and has been kind of searching and wandering since. Yesterday, she decided to "come home".

Steve Thurman had talked just moments before about the prodigal son...this was it. On the one hand, we had this young, innocent, sweet 13 year old wanting to give her life to Jesus Christ. No big disasters in her life...just wanted to be a follower of Jesus.

On the other hand, there was this other precious one who had been there, decided against it, left, had her fun with nobody to tell her what to do, and in the process had lost herself and realized there was only one place she wanted to be...in fellowship with those who supported her and in the arms of a God who would love her unconditionally...no matter where she had been in previous months/years.

What a great morning...
Blessings to you all.

My husband had a regularly scheduled check-up today...the Dr. asked him what his secret was...How do you actually stay alive and not stroke out with blood pressure this high? Heh, heh, funny Dr. The Dr assumed he was still on his blood pressure medication...he's not. He quit taking it.

"Why did you stop taking your medicine"
"Because I felt better"

I'm counting on all you out there to comment on that because although he rarely comments on my blog, he reads it faithfully. So, obviously he doesn't listen to his wife who says, "you feel better because you're on medication, you big doofus!" Maybe he'll listen to you all.

I was thinking about how I really am like that, though. I do things out of desperation...pray, call on God, look to the Word, etc when things are lousy. When I've hit bottom or been discouraged or scared...that's when I finally think of calling on God. Obviously, I am unable to solve this particular dilemma, so, I'd better check with the Master. Doofus.

Fortunately, through time and maturity, those moments come fewer and fewer. My personal walk with God continues to strengthen and grow as I do. But, I still find myself putting off what I should do sometimes because I feel pretty good. Things are going well, and I'm not in any situation that needs immediate attention. So, I'll work on that.

Don't be too hard on Lex, but feel free to get after him just a little bit.

We have hit a little blip in the radar of the Henderson household.

I will explain more at another time, but for today, I would ask that you take a second to pray for our family. Nothing devastating, just a speed bump that Satan would like to use to discourage us and take our focus off whatever is good.

So, when I can share, I will. But for now, just pray that we continue to be a strong family who's goal everyday is to serve God.

I love the Matthew 6:33 scripture from a not so familiar version:

He will give you all you need from day to day if you make the kingdom of God your primary concern.

I love that. So much power and peace and assurance in those words.

I hope your weekend was wonderful. I pray this week proves to be productive and fun!

Happy Monday, Bloggers!

Most of you know my husband sells custom choppers...Motorcycles.

It started as a part time job, just to make the money stretch a little more at the end of the month. He goes to work at his "real job" at 4:30 am and gets home about 2:30 pm. He then changes into his "motor cycle selling outfit" (it's similar to a Super Hero changing into his tights and cape), and works the afternoon, some evenings, and every weekend at "the shop".

He decided when he took this, he would call the afternoon job "the shop" and the day job "work". That tells you how he feels about his two employments...one is really just work, the other is a place to go and hang out with people who love the same things you love. He just happens to make money while doing it.

I've tried to get into this new love of his. After all, it is taking him away from me quite often, so I thought I should get to know this mistress, the motor cycle.

I've been to rock and roll nights at the shop, I've met many of his customers, I've flipped through his magazines when no one is looking just to try to get some of the terminology down, (he thinks it's sexy when I "talk chopper"), I've even been to a biker bar. (It's not as bad as it sounds, Mom).

I've noticed something...it's much like church.

It's a bunch of people who have found a common love and like being together. They have a place where they fit in - feel included.

Lex loves to introduce me to these folks.

They always politely and gently take my hand, even though some of them could crush my bones with a single grip. They kind of bow their heads and quietly say, "It's so nice to meet you...I love your husband." (really, almost every time those words or some similar come out of their mouth) When/if they cuss, they quickly look over at me and say, "Oh, excuse me..."

Now, not all these guys are the typical biker kind of person. Some are bankers, many are policemen, firemen, and there are quite a few attorney's riding around dressed up like something different than what they portray in the courtroom.

I think it's interesting how we like to take on other personalities. There's absolutely nothing wrong with it...unless...

As we've been studying through this discipleship series, it's become more apparent than ever that your evangelism to the world has nothing to do with whether or not you behaved in church...or even if you went this week. It has everything to do with who you are all the time. Our life is a representation of who we serve. Our witness is what we are deep down.

Last night I accompanied my husband and six big chopper dudes to a High School varsity volley ball game. It was the "senior" game for the girls. When the announcer introduced the team, the Sophomore and Junior girls ran in like usual, but, when it came time for the Senior introductions, they came riding in on the backs of the choppers. (I know you're not supposed to wear heels on a gym floor, but they never said anything about not riding motorcycles on it!) It was loud and exciting and something those girls (and the horrified parents) will never forget.

It was fun to watch everybody get so excited and I must say, I was really proud to be with the guy in charge. Every person he talked to hugged him. The girls, the parents, the chopper dudes...every person.

It's a great example of being in the world but not of it. Lex mingles and talks with many different people. Different backgrounds, different financial status, different morals, and different goals. But, Lex is the same all the time. People not only appreciate it, they admire it.

I'm more comfortable in church than I am in a Biker Bar...but honestly, if Jesus were walking in the flesh among us today, where would he hang out?

Happy Wednesday!

I typically don't take a specific day off. Sometimes I stay home on Friday, sometimes Thursday is a better day for me to be off. But usually, I work 6-7 days per week. I'm not bragging about that, in fact, I think it's a flaw.

Sometimes it's because to be home means I need to clean and I'd rather be at work than home cleaning. Sometimes, I just feel like I need to "be around" for whatever reason at church, and usually, I see at some point in my day I was right about that.

Yesterday, I stayed home. I cleaned, I scrubbed, I changed sheets, I did laundry, I put a roast and potatoes in the crock pot, I raised a mirror in my kids bathroom so my 6'+ children don't have to bend to see the tops of their heads, I made pumpkin orange rice krispy squares, (in honor of Halloween, of course). I was a domestic goddess!

My family walked in the house and the happiest looks came over their faces. They saw the house had been cleaned, they smelled dinner cooking, and they felt the peace that comes from a happy, organized home. Who wouldn't like that?

I still love walking into my Mom's home (which happens to be the house I grew up in), and smell something cooking. (Especially if it's a roast dinner). My mom is truly one of the best homemakers I've ever seen. There is a peace about her home because she's organized and clean and loves the tasks that make her house a home.

What are some of your childhood memories that bring up wonderful feelings? Smells, traditions, holidays?

Happy Tuesday! Blessings on you for an organized, productive, spirit filled week.

Our son was at work, Ashley gets out of school at 5:00, and had a ton of homework to do. Lex and I were scheduled to go to some friends house and see/pray over their new baby. So, we picked up Ash from school and headed to McDonald's for a quick dinner.

For all you nutritionists out there, don't bother writing or calling to tell me I failed in the 'health' portion of taking care of my family last night...I'm aware McDonald's doesn't rank up there with the most wholesome and nutritious place we could have gone!

Anyway, we also needed to make a quick stop at Target for some necessary items before taking Ashley home and heading to our friends house. In other words, we were on kind of a tight schedule...

We finished our happy meals and started out the door when my husband handed me the keys and said, "you and Ash head over to Target, I'll be there in a few minutes."

It is just across the parking lot, and he could easily walk to us, but why?

"What are you doing?" I asked

"nothing...just go, I'll be there in a minute."

If any of you know me, you know there is no way in the world I'm going to "just go" without an adequate explanation.

"Why, Lex? Are you o.k.? What are you doing?"

He finally answered me in a slightly disgusted tone..."I have to buy some dinner."

I was totally confused...he had just eaten, it was hours before our son would be home so it wasn't for him. He finally tilted his head over to the corner of the McDonalds and there was a guy going through the discards and garbage that others had left behind, hoping to find a bite to eat.

I had seen this guy hunched down against the wall sleeping when we had first walked in.

"Oh...o.k." his dense wife finally got it.

Ashley and I walked out to the car and she asked, "What's Daddy doing?"

What a pleasure it is to let your children see the true heart of their Dad. What an honor it is to be with a man who not only wanted to buy the guy some dinner, but really didn't want me to even know what he was doing.

We pulled around to the front of the McDonald's and waited for Lex.

He came out and said that the guy had a hard time accepting the meal, but finally took it and as Lex walked away, said, "Hey, man, thanks" and shook Lex's hand.

The guy looked over to a lady who was watching the whole thing and said,
"See, there is a God!"

I'm so grateful Lex didn't stick to the schedule.

I got nothin'.

Been trying to get to the blog, but too many other things taking a front seat to blogging.

Didn't want you to think I'd fallen off the ride. I'm still here. Just overwhelmed with all that needs to be done, as I know all of you are also.

Hope things are going well for all of you...please continue to keep our Elders in your prayers.
(Gene, Lee, Steve F., Steve P., Arthur, Hutch, Aaron)
Be back soon...

O.K. Yesterday I said that nobody can really make me do anything, right? In light of that fact, read on...

"A woman who tossed her three young children off a pier into San Francisco Bay near Fishermen's Wharf has been arrested, authorities said Thursday, and the Coast Guard searched for the bodies of two of the children.
The body of a third child was recovered Wednesday.
The children, Trayshaun, 6, Greely, 2, and Joshua, 1, were stripped of their clothing and thrown into the Bay because the mother said voices had told her to throw her children into the water." AP News

I'm at a loss. What in the world would make someone, one by one, throw their babies to their death? The article went on to say that she had taken medication for mental illness. I understand that mental illness is confusing and very real.

I know those children are safe in the arms of Jesus. I know that whatever fear and confusion they suffered was minimal compared to the riches they are feeling in the presence of God. I also know this woman, this mother, is a child of God. I'm not sure how to get beyond my disgust and anger to feel pity or compassion for her. But, I have to. She is a child of God. How can God be seen in this horrific story? Somehow, it's up to us to find Him in there...

Maybe tomorrow I will be able to pray for her. I'm sure you've all seen this story already, but in just in case this is news to you, her name is Lashaun Harris. She's 23, has been booked on three counts of murder, is mentally ill, and has lost everything.

I hope in the process, she finds a Savior.

Are any of you old enough to remember the old Flip Wilson routine where he says "The Devil made me do it!" I think (because I really was very young at the time), it was the character he played named Geraldine who used to say that.

I remember thinking he was very funny, but didn't always get to watch it. I'm not sure if it didn't pass my Mom's radar sensor for us kids or if it was on too late, but I do remember my Dad getting a chuckle out of that show.

This may be way off for most of you, but I've floated through life sometimes thinking that many of my sinful ways are because of the devil. Because of evil. Because something bad out there is gunning for me.

What that does is it allows me to accept the wrong without accepting responsibility for the sinful nature. "The Devil made me do it!"

I'm wrong. (boy, that doesn't happen often, does it?)

I was reading/studying on Monday and this verse, which I've heard before, jumped out at me in a new way.

II Corinthians 10:5
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
(NIV)
~or~
We destroy people's arguments and every proud thing that raises itself against the knowledge of God. We capture every thought and make it give up and obey Christ.
(New Century Version)

I love the picture of my being able to "capture every thought" and "make it give up" and obey Christ. That puts the power, (and responsibility) back into my hands.

Nobody makes me do anything. Right? God gave us that wonderful gift of choice. He doesn't make us do what we should do. He gives us the tools, the directives, and then hopes we will love Him enough to follow. It's up to us.

I do believe Satan tries to trip us. Of course. I know the devil loves to see us fail. It gives him power. But he can't make me.

For some of the more scholarly minds out there you're probably thinking, "Duh, girl. I figured this out in Jr High." O.k. Maybe it's very elementary and not the deepest thing I've ever written or thought. But what a powerful realization.

Just wanted to share...

I suspect I won't be the only one who journals this, but let me tell you what happened yesterday...

As most of you know, our Elders surround the church every Sunday and just stand waiting to receive people for prayer during our invitation time. It's one of the sweetest parts of our service every week. People who visit often comment on what a loving and sensitive group of leaders/Shepherds we have.

Yesterday, we decided to turn the tables on them. We had the Elders and wives surround the church as usual, but then we asked the church to go to them and pray for them. Kind of a reverse invitation, if you will. We put in 5 songs thinking it would be too many so we had an option to skip the 4th if we saw no action being taken by that time.

What happened was amazing. Really, there are no words to describe it but I'll try.

People clustered around without hesitation praying for their leaders...Their Shepherds. Then they would move to another Elder, then another. The church moved in a beautiful motion for not only 5 songs, but a repeat of three of them, and still, they weren't really finished. There were groups, couples, individuals all going to their Elders and praying for them. The Elders were overwhelmed, emotional, grateful, humbled.

One of my favorite scenes, (at least the one I could make out through my blubbering tears), was Wes Schmidt in his scooter, holding out his hand for an Elder to stay there next to him so he could pray for him. I looked back over and a crowd had gathered around that scooter, kneeling, hands on each other listening to one of our precious patriarchs pray for Aaron and Joyce Watson.

I honestly think there wasn't a dry eye in the place. It was one of the most overwhelming things I've witnessed in a long time. This went on and on...There was scene after scene of precious moments, Godly moments.

God was all over...In every corner, every pew, every heart. It was amazing.

Please pray for us. Our Elders began a 40 day prayer vigil yesterday that will conclude the day after Thanksgiving. They are taking turns at the building if the church wants to come pray with them. They are asking God to show them what the direction of College should be.

Quite scary...Very exciting.

Let me tell you, now that some of the "fog" has cleared, some of my favorite moments last week.

1. Corporate worship with my daughter at my side. (Lex was running sound and Avery was up in the "booth" with Ted - the amazing visual guy.)

2. Watching Ashley (when she didn't know I was watching) run the ZOE Store with a glowing smile nobody could resist.

3. Seeing their faces when they were asked "sweet or unsweet" regarding their tea at CrackerBarrel. (with the Nashville accent, of course) We don't have "sweet tea" in California. We do, however, have Non-Fat DeCaf Soy Latte's. ICK!

4. A powerful drama time with a very talented Donna Hester of ACU as she delivered an engaging presentation of some women from the Bible.

5. Watching my son take very seriously his role as tech set-up helper. And, seeing him answer questions in tech language with a sweet spirit and confident heart. (how did he get so smart?)

6. Watching a group of 7-10 deaf people have their own kind of praise and worship. It was amazing...brought tears to my eyes.

7. While singing the Magnificat, (four parts, each added one at a time) one deaf interpreter signed the first group, another joined for the second, another for the third, and finally a fourth person came out to represent the final part. If you have heard that song, you know how amazing it is when all four parts finally come together...couple that with passionate interpreters layering on their offering and it is hard not to choke up.

8. Watching my daughter's face as the sweet professor from Lipscomb University told her it is better for her to minor in Bible instead of major, because it is hard for women to get jobs in ministry. (you really should have seen her...it was priceless.)

9. Laughing, crying, praying, singing, talking with friends.

10. Watching Randy Wray squeeze in the back of our rental car in between my two petite children...Randy insisted it was cozy, nice, but ultimately admitted that when we opened the door, it was like opening one of those cans of biscuits! POP! They all came tumbling out...

11. Having lunch on Sunday with Randy Wray and Don & Cheryl Foster at the Grand Ole Opry Hotel. Their brunch is amazing and somehow, we always get this private room that makes us feel like royalty!

12. Watching God work through people. Not just speakers/teachers/singers/presenters, but everybody. Seeing the little circles of friends, some old, some brand new just met, talking and laughing and praying together.

There are probably 50 moments I could list specifically, but for now, I'll stop.

It's all good. It's all God.

There's no place like home!

Nashville was wonderful. The conference was amazing and I'm excited to know it will be here in just a few short months. Yikes!

There were different formats, offerings, opinions this year. It wasn't exactly like I had remembered in the past, which always makes you sit up and listen a little closer. It was a wonderful experience to have my kids with me. They make me proud. Ashley worked the "ZOE Store" for Eric most of the weekend, and Avery worked tech set up and help. Lex did a wonderful job of mixing and delivering wonderful sound for the main auditorium sessions, and I, well, what exactly did I do?

I've decided that home is wherever people are that you love. Really. I'm not big on the idea of moving, but if I ever had to, it would have to be to a place where I already have people that I love present.

It is good to be back in my office. Familiar surroundings, familiar smiles. There is so much to say, I don't know where to start. So, for now, I'll just say, I feel like one of the most blessed women in the world. My circle of family and friends is endless and priceless. To know people from all over the country love Lex and I and our children is something to be very grateful for.

Recently, I was trying to express to my kids how very blessed they are to have so many contacts/friends in the Lord. That there are so many people who love them and care about their physical health and spiritual journey. I finally just said, "you know, there are people that go their entire life just hoping somebody, anybody, will notice them for just a moment. And yet, you are loved in enormous amounts constantly."

What a blessing!

More later when the fog clears!

I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry...

I'm getting ready to go to Nashville for the ZOE Conference next Tuesday, which means I'm trying to accomplish 2 weeks work in 1 week. (as I'm sure one or two of you are doing also).

We (the worship committee) ended up changing speakers and topics for this Sunday, (on Tuesday afternoon of this week), so, what I thought I was ahead on, I actually found myself behind. Starting from scratch on Wednesday morning isn't always the most peaceful feeling for me.

My kids are going to Nashville this year with us. I'm so excited. Some of the "stress" of getting ready to leave was always getting them settled and making sure their needs were met while we were gone. Rides to and from, obligations they couldn't miss, and the general "I miss my kids like crazy when I'm away from them" feeling.

But, this year, they are both going with me. Avery will help with "tech" set up for classrooms and Ashley will be a general do whatever somebody needs person. Ashley has an opportunity to visit and speak with some people from Lipscomb while we're back there. We'll see what that produces. Sounds like a long way from Mom, if you ask me. But her desires are to sing and teach whether it be in elementary or College level English, as well as an interest in Children's Ministries, so, where God wants her is where I want her.

I'm sorry it's been so long since I've blogged. I'll try to do better, but don't know what my opportunities will be in Nashville. We get up early and work until very late. I'm old. I need my beauty sleep.

Blessings to you all.

The other night Lex and I were at one of our favorite places to eat.

Plaza Ventana...mmm mmm good! It has a relaxed atmosphere, great food, great service, and the manager always gives me a hug when we go in. I like that. They act like we're family walking into their home for a meal.

It was later than usual. The place was not very busy. About half way through our meal, the sweet manager, Lydia, came and sat down with us at our table. Asked if everything was o.k. Asked how we were. And then said, "don't you have prayer at your church?" "Of course," I answered. "Well, I need you to pray for my nephew. He really needs prayer." I waited to see if she'd tell me why he needed prayer, but she didn't. So I assured her we would not only pray for him, but let everybody know about it via email so they could add him to their list also. "Wonderful" she said. "Since you have so many praying, I need you to pray for my son, also. He really needs prayer."

I promised her we would pray for Michael and Anthony. I know God knows what their needs are.

What is success? When I was younger, success was, for the most part, material. When you're older and have stuff, that would be success. Beautiful home, new cars, vacations, etc... For me, it was a singing career along with the stuff. I wanted to be a star...to sing...to perform around the world. To be known.

I was ready for bed the other night and had lost Lex. I knew he had gone in to pray with the kids, but it had been a while and didn't know where he had gone.

I walked by Ashley's dark room and the door was about half way open. I will never forget what I saw...

The hall light provided enough of a glow for me to see my husband, on his knees beside the bed of his sleeping daughter, arms outstretched over her...praying.

Lydia, at the restaurant, knew we were an avenue to God. She knew who we were...she knew who we belong to. So, even amongst a business atmosphere, although we weren't in a church building, she felt comfortable coming to us for help.

What is success? I've changed my opinion of that.

Success is being known, yes, but being known as a child of God. Success is representing the Savior with grace and love without judgment. Success is even in the darkest most private corners of your home, your heart, your life, you seek God...even though no one is watching.

Being a disciple of Jesus Christ has made me a successful woman...

After church yesterday, I was up front receiving my weekly hugs from "my peeps". These "peeps" happen to be all under the age of 10.

I get enormous love from these kids who are running down the aisle to join Mr. Lex for class in the front of the auditorium. I just happen to be connected with him so I get to be loved, too. (It also could be that I have what I love to call the "happy jar" in my office that I share with them every so often. Big glass jar full of licorice, sour gum balls (they love those), M&M's, etc...)

Sometimes, if I'm not paying attention, (or happen to be talking to an adult and not looking down), one of them will grab me about knee height and I'm just sure, someday, it's going to be the tackle of the century!

After my usual hug tradition, I gathered my pitch pipe, music, purse, shoes, (I was no longer wearing them) and headed for my office. I stopped to talk to a grandmother who was bringing her two little charges into the auditorium for class. Let me tell you what I knew about her at that time.

She has these two children with her by legal custody. Parents abandoned the kids. She works for Fresno Unified School District, and has put these two (grades 1st and 3rd) into our private school at the church. These children are challenges. Very immature, sometimes the 3rd grader still curls up in a ball and sucks her thumb (but not as much as she used to). 1st grader is ALL OVER THE PLACE! But cute as a button and tries with all his might to do what he's supposed to. It's just absolutely impossible for him to sit still and listen for very long. Grandma is very, very quiet and appears very private. So, I haven't talked with her much...until yesterday morning.

I said good morning to Grandma and asked how she was doing. Her grandson was hugging her neck with all his strength to tell her goodbye before class. It was precious. She looked at me and told me he was in a particularly active mood today. ?!? (as opposed to the other days? I wanted to say but of course didn't)

We small talked for a minute but then she said, "Pray for me. I'm angry. Both parents have re-entered these kids lives and I'm trying to schedule time with both without disrupting any progress that's been made with them."

By now, the tears were silently streaming down her cheek. (she's a very quiet person)

I found out Mom was her daughter. Dad was the daughter's boyfriend for years but never married. Dad now has a new girlfriend who's expecting a child any day now. Both parents want to see their kids. Grandma is scared...and angry.

"This anger is seeping into every other aspect of my life," she said. "No matter what I do, no matter how 'good' I am in other areas, I feel like God is saying to me 'but look at your heart in this situation'." she was still crying very quietly.

I just stood there and listened and ached for this sweet woman who is trying to make a home and a life for these two precious children. I thought about how quiet and private she is...and wondered how many people come, sit, don't share, cry quietly, and we never even know their story or their pain.

Sometimes, as a minister in charge of what happens on Sunday morning, I become very entangled in details. You have to know what you're doing, obviously, but my new prayer is that God handles that stuff for me, gives me peace that He's in charge, and opens my eyes to people instead of details.

What I didn't tell you in the beginning was that my first instinct was to walk right by her...not talk at all. I was tired, I wanted to put my stuff in my office and get a cup of coffee. I wanted to sit for 10 minutes in my empty office and not talk or smile or sing. I just wanted to breathe for a minute.

I'm so grateful God didn't let me. And, I'm always relieved to see that He really is in charge and still working on me!

The weather has been unbelievably beautiful! No air conditioning running in the house, which is a happy thing for the budget. Highs in the 80's. Gorgeous!
..................................
Lex continues to be a motorcycle selling machine. It takes lots of time away from us. Too much, but oh my goodness...What a financial blessing! He and I snuck away last night after church and had a long quiet dinner together. As crazy as this sounds, we worked through some junk that had lingered in our marriage for 18 years. Isn't that stupid? The bottom line is, I, as a woman, thought he should just know some stuff. I have finally decided that if I want him to know something, the best thing to do is just say it. How 'bout that?
..................................
Ashley has Senior pictures taken today. She was so beautiful as I dropped her off at school. I talked with her yesterday about beauty in general. It is such a difficult subject because as women, we want to be beautiful, but really cannot even begin to match what we see from Hollywood (or Malibu) of even California in general. One of the things I appreciate about Ash is her deep down beauty. She tells it like she feels it...Doesn't play girlie games...And loves deeply. Especially children and elderly. I think that says something about someone. I gave her the "pretty is as pretty does" speech but she knew it already. I'm very proud of who she is.
.................................
Avery continues to be stable, strong, quiet, and Godly. I'm waiting for his rebellion period. I was talking with my brother about post-modern and modern people - particularly children. Uncle Steve has decided that his nephew is modern, even though he was born in what should make him a post-modern child. Avery is black and white. None of this "truth is relative to your situation or circumstance" stuff for him. Truth is Truth. Period. I struggle with that with him, but at the same time, love that about him.
................................
My Mom's headed for Boston, Penn, D.C. area early Sunday morning. She and some of her friends are excited to be going to visit some historical sites, amish country, and the White House. She's going to have a blast. Your prayers for her safety would be appreciated.
................................
I was watching an interview with Danny Bonaduce (kid from Partridge Family now grown up) and when questioned about the extreme content of his new "reality show" he said:

"I don't really even like my fellow man, why should I care what he thinks or if this would hurt him?"

He admits to being a drug using alcoholic on steroids who has a violent streak. He said that a celebrity like himself committing suicide on his reality show would make "great T.V."

When asked why she stays with him, his wife answered, "because I love him and the Danny who isn't using alcohol or drugs is a wonderful intelligent man."

I know this is extreme...But, what is your drug? Is it food, or acceptance, or T.V., or books, or your job, or pride in general?

I could sit and judge Danny because he's so very messed up and even enjoys showing you how messed up he is. But as I watch people like him, who appear to wade in their own mistakes and enjoy doing it, I realize that he is a sinner like I am a sinner. God is God...sin is sin...there is no "good sinner" and "bad sinner". Oh, sure, I might try to cover my blunders and warts more than Danny does, but God loves us the same.

I really hope that somebody has the chance to tell Danny Bonaduce that Jesus Christ died just for him. That God loves him deeply and longs to have a relationship with him. And, most of all, I hope Danny accepts that grace that is offered.

But for today, I am just going to try to live a life looking for the "danny's" that live in my world.

Blessings to you.

I was reminded today that there are people watching us all the time...those of us who profess to love Jesus Christ and try to pattern our lives after Him.

We have two families at the church in a "feud" of sorts. They happen to have children at the same public school where, now, others are drawn into this "battle" of sorts.

Do they have justification for how they feel? Probably.

Is there more than one side to the story? Always.

Is the name of Jesus Christ tarnished because they can't seem to find it in their own hearts to forgive and love? Absolutely.

I don't get angry often. Especially at people. I might get angry at a circumstance or situation, but not often people. But this makes me angry and disappointed.

I just have one thing to say that you already know. It isn't the sermon we preach, it's the life we live. Period.

It has been such a nice weekend...

I turned a year older on Saturday. I was able to spend some time with my family. My mom made a wonderful "bring-me-back-to-childhood" dinner Saturday night of roast, mashed potatoes, gravy, bread, green beans, corn. Homemade from scratch Angel birthday cake and Peach and Vanilla homemade ice cream. I was able to share this with both my brothers, Lisa, James, my Mom, and both my kids. I missed Lex but he was in Paso Robles at a motorcycle "thing". He did have a big bouquet of flowers waiting for me at my Mom's house, though. Very smart of him. :)

Who could ask for anything more? Family, a wonderful meal, laughter, thought provoking conversation.

Sunday was a very good morning. One of my favorite things was the end when 20 kids ages Kindergarten - 6th grade surrounded the congregation with buckets. The church was told of the Impact Ministries in Houston who are ministering to 20,000+ people who have come from New Orleans. During our closing song, they would have an opportunity to drop their donation for the Hurricane Katrina victims into the bucket of a child and we would make sure it was sent to the proper place.

The Elders prayed, and we started our closing song. Sometimes people hesitate when they are asked to leave their seat to do something during the assembly. But in the words of Ashley, "It looked like somebody kicked an ant hill!"

From the stage, we saw the whole church move in all different directions. It was amazing. I had to quit looking because, of course, it made me cry. The kids smiled and said thank you...the adults bent down to the kids and chatted with them. Some people gave more than once because it was important to them to give in specific buckets, and others came from far across the auditorium to the child that they happened to have a relationship with. It was absolutely beautiful.

My favorite was Wes Schmidt who is now unable to walk without assistance. He has a "scooter" (quite powerful and with a mighty horn for honking), he didn't send anyone else with his donation...he scooted down that aisle and people parted like the mighty sea. Put his donation into the bucket, smiled and chatted with the sweet boy, (Zachary Pafford), and then turned that thing around and headed back to his spot.

I heard later of a young boy who knew this donation opportunity was coming. He told his mom he wanted to get some money out of his piggy bank. He is 1st grade. He had $10 in change in his bank...his mom asked how much of that he wanted to give. He asked if God would think it was o.k. if he gave $7. "Do you think it would be o.k. if I kept $3?"

The even cooler thing about that story is that I happened to watch this boy walk down to give his coins. He didn't hesitate. Walked with determination, dropped his change into the metal bucket (what a sound that made!), and then ran back to his seat literally dancing, singing, and jumping up and down as he joined in the singing of "A New Anointing". His joy of giving was overflowing.

We raised over $10,000 for those folks.

I know it's a tiny sum of what is needed. But our folks experienced relationship, joy, fellowship, and goodness as they gave.

God is so good to us.

Most of you know last year I taught music for the school that inhabits our church building Monday - Friday. It was a difficult experience "scheduley" speaking (I know, that's not a word), but an absolute pleasure and joy to interact and grow and love those children on a day to day basis.

Because of that, they always wave and smile and some are even so bold to get out of their lines and come hug me when they see me at my desk. They are sweet and special.

Today, one of my favorites (I know you're not supposed to have favorites) came by and stopped in the doorway of my office. I smiled and said hi and asked how she was doing...

"You'll never guess what I have." she said.
"What?" I asked hoping it wasn't something that crawled or slithered.

"We got my baby brother yesterday!"

"Oh, my goodness!" I exclaimed so very relieved it wasn't a snake or a snail. (the class across from me are doing their annual snail study and every morning some of them like to show me their offering for the day!) "How exciting for you! How's you're mommy doing?"

"She's good. She cried all day every time she looked at him. He's a year old."

I was now understanding this wasn't a birth into their home but an adoption.

"His name is Jimmy." she said. "He has dimples and is beautiful. I was the only one and now there's Jimmy and me."

"Oh, how wonderful for you guys. I'm so happy for you. Jimmy's blessed to have you for a big sister."

"Ya..." (and here's the comment that finally stuck right through my heart)

"We were supposed to have other baby's before, but it didn't work out. But this one did work out. So, we're going to change his name. We're going to choose a name for him that's from us so he will know forever he is ours."

Those sweet children continue to teach me...

I Thessalonians 1:4 For we know, brothers loved by God, that He has chosen you.

Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

I Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness and into his wonderful light.

When Sadness is Larger than the Bowl

It's so good to be able to write about things on our hearts, isn't it?

It really helps me sort through thoughts and feelings to be able to write. It's even better to read your comments and your blogs and see, often, our hearts are connected and similar. What a blessing to be on this journey together, even if it is hundreds or thousands of miles apart.

The down side is, there are times we really can't share on this public forum specifics. Right? I mean, to just lay it all out there with names and dates and specific problems isn't possible and would violate all things pastoral and confidential.

So, forgive me for the lack of detail but here are my thoughts today.

My heart is broken for people. People who are very sick and very scared. People who have marriages that Satan is invading and, at this point, destroying. People who have allowed Satan to inhabit their thoughts and hearts and can't see the destruction around them and in front of them. People who are angry because life isn't what they had hoped for and there doesn't seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel. People who are financially disabled.

Yesterday, it really just overwhelmed me. I felt helpless (which is a very bad feeling for me). I couldn't do anything to fix anybody, including my own personal hurts. So, I did what I always do when I'm sad. I baked cookies.

Someday, I might say, "I went to the gym." But for now, baking cookies is more a comfort for me. I went home to an empty house, turned on a Worship CD as loud as I could stand it, and I baked "Monster Cookies". If you don't have Jack Hayford's "Men in Worship" CD, I strongly recommend you find it. It's an old CD, maybe not available any longer, but it's an absolute time of worship with only men. So beautiful.

I cried, sang, poured ingredients into the bowl, cried some more, poured more ingredients in. The great thing about these particular cookies is you can put whatever you want into them. I put everything I could find. These things have peanut M&M's, plain M&M's, peanut butter, chocolate chips, oatmeal, raisins, (doesn't that make them a health food?). It came to the point where my sadness overwhelmed the bowl. My bowl overflowed and I had to switch to a larger bowl. So I did. I now had a little extra room so I added more M& M's and choc chips. This bowl of cookie dough was huge!

I formed yummy round balls of dough onto the cookie sheets, put them in the oven, sat on the floor by the music and for 8-10 minute intervals (baking time for the cookies), cried and sang and cried and sang. The oven timer went off, I took the cookies out of the oven and repeated the process.

Eventually, I had baked all I could bake and cried all I could cry and as silly as it sounds, felt like God had met me right there amidst the cookie dough.

It's not over. Satan is still in the midst of things and people are still hurting. But today, I'm sure God is God and He will deliver us.

I don't know how big a bowl you need to hold your grief, your sadness, your worries. But God has a bowl that will fit. He is so generous, and compassionate and loving...He will meet us amidst any situation if we call on Him.

I don't know where you all are today, but as I was studying and reading this morning, I kept going back to Psalm 147. I love verse 3: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

There are many things I could relate that to on this morning, some personal, some congregational, but the bottom line is, the great God of all creation, the God who made everything and called it by name, the God who breathed life into my soul personally and knew me before I was formed, cares for me.

I can picture him kneeling beside his child...me...not even saying anything. Just holding me, loving me, healing my broken heart.

It's such a precious picture.

Austin is a 7th grade young man from a home that hasn't provided him many advantages in life. This kid has captured my heart and I want you to know him, too.

Sunday was our celebration/recognition of the kids leaving the elementary school program and moving up into the Youth Group. Those starting Middle School...7th grade. Scary, difficult, exciting times for young people.

Austin started coming about 2 years ago with a family that has since left College. They brought him to V.B.S. and he stuck with us after that. His main attendance was Wednesday night Pioneer Club program which is an outstanding draw for kids in elementary school. Much credit goes to Tannon and Theresa Pafford who have tirelessly promoted and developed that into an exciting and outstanding time for our kids.

Tannon and Theresa emailed me last week and said please make sure someone contacts Austin. He needs to be here Sunday morning and experience the "promotion" time. He typically doesn't come Sunday mornings and we thought he might need a ride. He was called and was excited to be invited and said he would come.

Sunday morning rolled around. Lex called all the kids to the front to honor them, have the Elders surround and pray for them, and then present each one with a Bible.

No Austin. I was very disappointed but knew some things we just can't control.

Church was dismissed and we were deep in the elementary class time with much excitement and enthusiasm when I looked up and in walked Austin.

I walked over to him, put my arm around him and said, "Hey there...It's so good to see you."

"yah", he answered "when was I supposed to be here? I think I'm supposed to go to the teen room. Do you know where that is?"

"Absolutely. And, on our way to the teen room, I need to stop by my office and give you something."

We walked down the hall chatting about school and nothing in particular. Stopped by my office and I gave him his Bible.

"Austin, this is for you from Lex and I and the Elders and all the people here who are proud of you for your successful entrance into the Youth Group and Middle School. Use this Bible. Read this Bible. Ask questions...lots of questions."

Austin didn't open it. He just held it with both hands up to his chest. "Thanks" he said.

"You're welcome. Now let's go find the teen room. They're having a party for all the incoming 7th graders and you don't want to miss it."

We walked down the very long hall way quietly when out of the blue Austin said, "If there is no God, or if scientists prove God wrong, then all this..." his voice trailed off..."all this..." he said again holding his Bible close to him.

"All this means nothing, right?" I answered him.

"Right. Everything would mean nothing." he responded.

"Austin, has anyone proved God wrong?"

"No. And that's so cool because people have tried and can't do it."

"That is cool." I responded.

"So, how do I know for sure everything with God is real?"

"You study this Bible. You think for yourself. You pray and talk with God as many times a day as you want and need to. And, you have faith. Faith is the thing that helps us when there are things going on we can't fix or control or change. Faith is hoping for stuff we can't quite put our finger on or understand."

"That's good. This is good. Thanks." he said as the sweetest smile came over him.

We arrived at the teen room and he was enthusiastically met by one of the teen support parents who promptly led him into the room with all the other scared questioning wild young people.

For once, I was so thankful for long hallways. That conversation wouldn't have taken place if we hadn't had to walk together such a distance.

Remember Austin. Pray for Austin.

Last night, after an 11 hour day at the church, I still went and did my cardio and legs and abs workout. (she hasn't walked us through our chest or arms work-outs yet. Thank heavens!) Aren't you proud? I was.

However, once I fell onto the bed, I couldn't move. Couldn't roll over, couldn't breathe, couldn't move. I laughed at myself, but, oh my goodness, that hurt, too.

On the way home from the gym, I told Lex it felt like somebody took a sword and pierced my body from the front to the back. I thought he should have somehow taken better care of me. I shouldn't hurt this bad. We laughed...ouch. Then I sneezed and thought I was going to have to call 9-1-1.

The good news is, today it doesn't hurt nearly as bad as it did last night. And, I dare say I can start to see some tiny, tiny changes. My circulation is better, my complexion looks better, my eyes seem a little brighter, and I could almost swear my teeth are whiter! (just kidding on the teeth thing)

How fun it is to begin to see results. I told the Praise Team last night my goal is to be a sexy 50 year old. So, I have plenty of time to make some major changes. They responded by saying they thought I was a sexy 40 year old. Aahhh...they're so good to me.

In all seriousness, this is one of the biggest challenges I've faced in my life. It was the "thing" I had given up on. Decided it was o.k. to be the way I was and people would have to love me anyway. (and of course, they do.) Thought that I was really too late in life to become "fit" and "healthy" in body.

Isn't it wonderful to know we don't ever have to settle or think we've reached the end of our productive and growing time? (Physically, mentally, or spiritually)

We can always get better.

I think that's very exciting.

Abs?

So, we have an appointment tonight with our Personal Trainer to work on Abs.

Abs. Such a funny word. I'm guessing it's short for "Abdominal Muscles". Right?

I told her the last time we talked and set up this appointment, I just simply didn't have any. So there isn't really any point in me working on machines that build up a muscle that doesn't exist in my body. Right?

She put on her "tough personal trainer" voice and told me that if I didn't have "abs", I wouldn't be able to stand. Hhmmm...I do stand rather well. Strong, confident, so maybe I do have "abs".

However, in my defense, I did have two C-sections which delivered two babies both over 10 lbs, two years in a row. And, to my own personal shame, never did one sit-up or anything of that kind to try to bring back those muscles she swears I have.

My point is, this is gonna hurt. Right? There's nothing about this I'm looking forward to.

I guess I just have to rest in the fact that I'll provide great entertainment for my family as I try to run through the evil machines.

I'll let you know how it goes. But I'm not seeing rainbows and butterflies in my future tonight.

I had an ice cream discussion with our trainer. She said we can have ice cream, it's just about choices. Choose ice cream that is lower in fat and sugar instead of the high fat (good and delicious) kind. I asked her, "O.K., now tell me, have you ever tried Ben and Jerry's Coffee Heath Bar Crunch Ice Cream? Because I'm betting if you have, you wouldn't be talking this nonsense about low fat/low sugar ice cream."

She said she had tried all the Ben & Jerry's ice cream available and still prefers to eat lower fat/sugar choices because it's better for her and she feels better because of it.

Strange little 100lb girl.

I wonder if I'll ever say such words as that.

Have a good evening, bloggers.

First Day of School!

Those of you who know me very well know I cry the first day of school...every year.

It's one of those unavoidable things my kids know. I can see inside their heads all during the morning of the first day of school. You don't know exactly when it will hit me, but I know they're thinking..."wait for it, wait for it..." and then, BOOM. The tears are there.

I guess, as I've analyzed it through the years I've decided a couple of things. First, it's o.k. We actually laugh about it knowing it's going to happen. It's not about sadness, completely. It's also enormous pride in these people who just keep growing into wonderful young adults.

Second, it's about a milestone. All through the summer it still feels like the last school year. But then, that day hits and there is no running away from the advance of their grade. I might be different or weird. Whatever.

I baked a bunch of goodies yesterday and late into last night. Ashley's school is very small and I try a couple of times a year to take a huge plate of "stuff" to the teachers room, which is also the main office. So, I thought maybe it would distract me from the actual "letting go" process I seem to have trouble with if I were delivering cookies, macaroons, and chocolate peanut butter brownies.

At 7:10 am we walked into the office and Ashley was greeted with great enthusiasm by the head of the Music Department. (He also happens to be doubling as the principal until they hire a new one for next year.) Ashley and Mr. Jones are great friends so there were smiles, and laughter, and excitement. She walked into his office and the chattering began. I laid down the "offering" for the teachers and smiled and waved and started to walk out.

"Bye Mommy." (I love it when my 6 foot 17 year old kid calls me Mommy. It has nothing to do with her being immature or insecure...it is simply a sweet term of great endearment she uses when she needs to say it all in one word. The best part is...she doesn't care who hears.)

That did it. "Oohhh" I said with that tone they recognize as "Mom's about to lose it." (I sound like Laura Petry on the "Dick Van Dyke" show for those of you old enough to know what I'm talking about .)

I turned around and she quickly came to me and said..."Oh Mom, come here." (I love it when they take on the parent role) I hugged her and told her to have a great day. I've been accused of "thinking too much" by my sweet husband who often has to sweep up the pieces of my heart in situations like this. But he wasn't there, and Avery was waiting in the car for me to drop him off so I just plowed forward. As I hugged the neck of my beautiful, accomplished, poised, funny, intelligent daughter...I couldn't help but remember the time I let her walk into the Kindergarten room. Same curly hair. In Kindergarten, I curled her hair the night before. She was a doll. Last night she came to me with wet hair and curlers in hand. "Mom, will you curl my hair for tomorrow?" And today, she's still a doll.

I was enjoying and agonizing through this hug when she said "Mom, your squishing me."

"Oh, sorry." I was holding on a little tight, I guess.

I told her I loved her and quickly walked to the car.

Avery and I chatted to his school which is about another 15 minutes. Told him I was proud of him and that I loved him. As we drove into the parking lot, I slyly patted his arm and gave it a little squeeze. Avery goes to a great school but in a pretty rough part of town. It's a magnet school for those interested specifically in computer, science, math. (Architecture) So, along with the "cream of the crop" kids they pull from all over Fresno, the mix of neighborhood kids sometimes makes it a rough environment. I know better than to do anything that will embarrass him on campus. I would seal his fate if I got out and hugged and cried all over him. So, a little squeeze on the arm is the best I can do there.

I will be so glad to see them this evening.

Happy day, bloggers. Blessings to you all.