Question

I know all the things a minister should know.

I know what I would tell someone else who asked me this question...

But, listen, all you in blogland...all you teachers and preachers of the word...all you wonderfully faithful Christian people I admire and love so much...

Tell me, do you ever feel like your ears are going to explode? I mean, is there ever so much junk going on that you just feel in over your head? Really, don't tell me it's just me...and here's the big question...

Do you ever feel like God just stepped out for a minute? Not that He won't be back, not that he's forsaken you...I know all the scripture regarding that. I am just wondering, do you ever feel like a kid in a huge store and you look around and Mom and/or Dad has just disappeared from your sight? Double take, Look around, Quick glances...can't be seen?

Just wondering.

Blessings.

New Things

I was thinking this morning about how exciting this time of year is for me...

Not because of presents, although I LOVE giving things to people.

Not because of the decorations, however, I do appreciate a precisely strung bunch of lights on a house or the perfectly spaced spiral around a tree or two.

Not even because of the abundance of very fun food, which you all know is a great joy to me...

Nope. I love this time because it's close to a time of starting over.

I love January.

I love the starting over phase of the year. It's fresh and clean and without blemish!

It's just another opportunity to do things you gave up on in March, or June, or October. It's a time to refocus and recommit. It's a time to see things clearly and continue doing the good you're doing while at the same time, deciding to do better in other areas.

I realize it doesn't have to be January to start fresh. I know God has given us that opportunity every minute. We have the chance to begin again with slates wiped clean...but, there's something about the New Year that gives you fuel for the fire within you.

Take just a minute to read these scriptures....and may you be filled and blessed today as you scurry around with last minute details for the holiday time.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." 2Corinthians 5:17-21

and...I love love love this one...

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, or mourning, or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true."

He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children..." Revelation 21:1-7

Have a blessed Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

Good Smells

Some of you will understand what I'm about to say, and some, may just think I'm a little nuts...or, possibly you will understand, but still think I'm nuts. That's o.k.

When my kids both left for ACU, there was, of course an emptiness that was felt. Although you know they are doing exactly what they are supposed to do, you have this void, I think especially for the mother, because the object of your attention for so long is no longer there.

I'm a big "smell" person. I can walk in a room and often tell you who has been there according to the different smell that is left behind. Good smells are particularly good for me, and bad ones are just as amplified!

I discovered that the lack of the smell of my children was bothersome. It felt particularly empty.

2 Corinthians 2:14-15: "But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing."

I really love this verse because I do believe that we are a sweet smell to our Father when we are following His plan for our lives. When we are displaying the fragrance of Christ to those in a lost world, it just leaves a noticable, lingering, smell that they may not be able to explain, but they know it's good. It's comforting. It's salvation and grace.

My children to me are a sweet aroma of life and goodness to me. And, although I know they are not going to live in my house forever, I'm going to enjoy this month and soak it up while it's here.

Blessings!

TOMORROW!

"Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I love ya, Tomorrow! You're only a day

away!"

I cry every time that little Annie sings that song. Love that movie!

Blessings for a wonderful Friday!

Happy Happy Happy!

Only two days. That's close enough to say "day after tomorrow!"

In other news, working very hard this week and next on a special service for the 23rd. Lots of participants, many singers, beautiful music. It is my prayer that in the "hard work" we don't forget to just simply honor and glorify our Lord. Just simply give Him everything!

Blessings!

I hope you are filled with the inexpressible and glorious joy that comes from knowing Jesus Christ, not only this season, but throughout the coming year!

Blessings for a wonderful Wednesday!

How Many Days, You Ask?

That's how many days, in case you were wondering.

Assuming the ice storms across the country won't hold up their plane. My husband wanted me to watch the movie "Day After Tomorrow" Sunday afternoon.

Thanks, honey. If you've seen that movie, the ice is an issue (to put it mildly!)

Anyway, Blessings for a wonderful Tuesday and we'll chat more tomorrow...

This is engine number 5 (look closely at the center of the front car) telling you all it's 5 days until they're home!

Finals begin tomorrow for them. (and many others) This mama will be praying!

Blessings!

This wee little pic is of some precious babies...Sextuplets!
I don't know these people, but I thought it would be a marvelous way to tell you...only 6 more days until my children are home!

I hope your day was blessed. Our time of fellowship and worship this morning was beautiful. We ordained new Elders, and it was amazing to feel the Spirit working in a mighty way!

Blessings!

One Week Countdown!

One week from today!

It is beautiful today. Blue skies, white puffy clouds. Laundry going, Christmas Music playing, bathrooms being scrubbed. It's a beautiful day!

Rack 'Em Up!

How many more days, you ask?

Blessings!

Still counting down

Nine days until my children arrive!


So much to do...

May you be part of something good today.

Blessings!

Countdown

That's how many days...

Can't wait!

Blessings!

Counter Pic

I have many "favorite people" in my life. This picture shows you four of them.

There are a couple of reasons I'm posting this pic. First, I love these four very much. The sweet woman in the center is my Aunt Evelyn. Everybody...I mean everybody in the world should have an Aunt Evelyn. There aren't enough words to tell you how I feel about this sweet lady.

My big brother is in the back. We tease him about being "precious", but the truth is, he is a precious soul. Very sweet. Loves his family beyond words. A true blessing to me.

Most of you know my younger brother. He, too is a tremendous blessing to me and I feel like a truly blessed girl to have two wonderful brothers in my life. However, with all his talents and gifts, little brother is also quite silly. And, as most of you know, in recent days, has posted pics of his precious son, seen next to my Aunt.

Today's picture is particularly silly. Silly little brother begats silly little nephew. So, I couldn't stand by, as the protective Aunt, (because I aspire to be an "aunt Evelyn") and let you just see that sweet nephew in a silly light.

I want you to see his sweet and precious side. Three generations of preciousness. If you haven't seen my brother's site, there is a link here www.intentionalwalk.blogspot.com , and look at his silly pics. But then, come back and see the sweetness of James here.

Auntie Sandra is here for you, buddy!

Blessings!

Countdown!

Forget the 12 Days of Christmas!

I'm counting down the 12 days before my children get home!

Blessings...

Chop Chop

Cut my hair today...cut it, really cut it.

I know that won't mean squat to most of you, but if you've ever had long hair, and then cut it, it's a traumatic experience.

So, as I sat in the chair for my regular little tiny trim where nobody can really tell I even got it cut, I said, "CUT IT. CUT IT TO HERE! MAKE ME CUTE!"

I worried as I sat there wondering what my husband would think. I worried about what "they've" said about people over 40 holding on to their long hair and looking terrible. I wondered if I've looked "terrible" and just not known it.

I worried that shorter hair will make my face look even pudgier (word?), if that's possible.

But, when she was all finished, I looked in the mirror (I hadn't looked while she did it) and decided I was, maybe cute. And then I decided that I worry too much about stupid stuff...particularly what other people might think.

But, if you're a regular visitor of my blog, you already knew that.

Blessings!

Free Shipping

I only have one Christmas gift purchased, so far. So, Monday night, I decided to celebrate "Cyber Monday" and take advantage of the 20% off and Free Shipping this site was offering. I felt so techie-savvy!

I ordered the gift, clicked the button that offered a gift receipt, and then looked at the shipping options. The only way they would give you free shipping was, of course, the slow-ground-hope-it-gets-there-by-New-Year's way. But, I was determined to be cost minded and chose the slow sending option. I figured I had enough time, although, as you all know, 10-14 business days can turn into 4 weeks...easy.

The package arrived yesterday. YES...YESTERDAY! I couldn't believe it! Ordered it Monday night about midnight and received it Wednesday!

I would love to tell you the name of the efficient site, but then, somebody who reads my blog might get a hint to what that somebody is getting for Christmas. No Can Do!

Let's just call that Christmas Miracle #1.

Blessings!

First, you see a California Thanksgiving. Beautiful, sunny, crisp but certainly not cold by the rest of the country's standards.

And then there is the Texas Thanksgiving complete with 5" of snow!

I wouldn't have minded being in that snow, if it meant being with my children on Thanksgiving. But, as my mom said, this was the first Thanksgiving in 20 years that my children's little feet weren't under her Thanksgiving table. I was good 'till she said that!

Hope your day and weekend was wonderful. Complete with all things that warm your heart and tummy.

Now, on to Christmas!

Blessings.

Friends...

Friendship is such a sweet gift from God.


We had some people with us this weekend that are so important to us. They are the kind of people you don't have to see often to keep the relationship strong. But, when we do see them, we are reminded of the many reasons we love them and treasure that relationship.


So, out of the MULTITUDE of blessings, I am particularly thankful for friends in the Lord. People I know would love me regardless of my shortcomings...specifically how I look in the morning!


Blessings!

Happy Thanksgiving!

May your day be filled with the knowledge of the multitude of blessings you have because of our wonderful and awesome God!

Family, Food, Football, Falling asleep, (I was going to say "naps" but it didn't fit the pattern forming...)

Whatever it is you do today, may you be blessed and joyful.

Off my Feet?!

If you've read my blog, you know I had a little "procedure" about 6 weeks or so ago. Along with that procedure, every two weeks come more injections into the vein trying to slowly close down that unworking vessel.

Aside from the initial procedure, it's not been as bad as expected. Last Friday, as I was undergoing another treatment, I told the Dr., "hey, that wasn't bad at all. I like the little needle better!" He laughed at me, as he often does, and told me that it's all relative..."you see," he said, "if you hadn't had the BIG needle before, you wouldn't know this needle is better."

Hmmm...there's a sermon in there somewhere, or an analogy, or something.

Anyway, something went haywire this time. Swelling, pain, really red skin, pain, heat at the skin, pain. Did I mention pain? It hurts for the air to touch it!

So, I went today and that silly man, (well, the very knowledgeable Dr. with a specialist degree) told me that I needed to go home immediately and wrap my leg in my special made "leg thing" and put my leg up. Oh my! What a funny man!

I told him that I had to finish my work, first, and then go grocery shopping for the numerous pies I'm making tomorrow, and when I get home after that, I will be glad to put my feet up.

Doesn't he know it's Thanksgiving and we are awful close to Pie Night?

silly man.

Beautiful

There are times in our Sunday morning assembly, that stick with me for strange reasons. It could be a corporate work of song or prayer or praise. There are moments when only one voice is being heard via a message or sermon, prayer or song. All moments are good. All are beautiful if given with a heart of praise and thanksgiving, repentance and humility.

There was a moment this morning when a song, a very simple song I remember singing to my babies, was being sung and I knew it was a beautiful moment. It was as if the praise team was singing a lullaby, a love song, over the church. It wasn't the hardest song we did all morning, it wasn't the most intricate or even the deepest theological thought that has been put to music, but it was, in my opinion, beautiful beyond sense.

Isn't that God? Beautiful beyond sense. It doesn't make sense that He, the creator of the Universe, formed me, loved me from the moment time began, and then decided to die for me so that I can remain with Him. It really is beautiful beyond sense.

Oh how He loves you and me
Oh how He loves you and me
He gave His life, what more can he give?
Oh how He loves you
Oh how He loves me
Oh how He loves you and me.

I want my life to be a reflection of His love for me...beautiful beyond sense.

Blessings.

Tradition

It's almost Thanksgiving and under normal circumstances, I would be quite giddy.

However, this is the first year in about 20 that I won't be with my kids for this holiday. I would be lying if I said things like, "sands of time", "sunrise, sunset", "time marches on", blah, blah, blah.

It stinks. I would be o.k. with ignoring the whole thing. If I don't acknowledge it, it doesn't exist.

One tradition our family has that we've (my brother and I) written about before is our "Pie Night" tradition. I concocted this event where on Wednesday night before Thanksgiving, we all come together and eat some of the pie that will be served the next day. You're always so very full after the Thanksgiving meal, I thought it was proper to give the pie some special time of its own. We really enjoy a piece (or two) of these wonderful pies baked by various family members, and then enjoy them again the next day!

We all write down what we are particularly thankful for on 3X5 cards and then these cards are mixed up and read aloud. We try to guess who wrote the card that is being read. It's fun. It's sweet. It's often very touching. It gives us the opportunity to focus on the "Thanks" part of the holiday.

We have some very good friends in Nashville who will go to Abilene for their Thanksgiving. She is already there and he will be joining her in a couple of days. She's visiting her brother (a V.P. at ACU) and her Daddy. She loves my kids and has taken them under her wing for Thanksgiving.

I emailed her today to give her the kids email addresses and phone #'s so they could get the information they need to get together. She had already contacted them...already made them feel welcome, again.

So, I guess I won't worry. They will be having Thanksgiving at the V.P.'s home with people that love them like family.

And, this year, on my "thankful card", I will most definitely express my gratitude for the kingdom of God here on earth that has created eternal friendships that are just like family.

Blessings!

Grocery Store

I was checking out at the grocery store today and the sweet young thing checking me out starts looking at what I've bought.



Checker: "Hmmm", baking something?"

Me: "yes, not today, but probably tomorrow I'll be making cookies."



Checker: "Cream of Celery soup? I've never heard of that. What is it?"

Me: "It's soup that's creamy and has celery in it."



Checker: "oooo, I love celery. Do you think I'd like this?"

Me: "well, I don't know, I've never actually eaten it alone, I always use it in things I'm making. But if you like celery, you would probably like it."



Checker: "I really like celery. Do you think it has like chunks of celery in it?"

Me: "why, yes, I believe there are bits of celery in the Cream of Celery soup."



Checker: "mmm, yum. I can't imagine that in cookies, but I'm sure you know what you're doing."



Me: (silent...very silent...looking straight at her...not able to move my lips...very glad I was alone and my husband wasn't with me to absolutely double over with laughter.)



Bless her heart!



Blessings!

Strike

It's the big story...

Not the war, Not gas prices, Not the fact that this world is running out of oil, Not the environmental issues, or any other number of things of some importance.

It's the strike. The writers strike. Celebrities are taking pizza to their writers on the picket lines, Jay Leno is delivering donuts to his writers outside.

Late night is the first to be hurt, and then sit coms and soap operas and dramas.

Watching one channel of news last night they were listing all the shows on the opposite network that would be challenged, and probably come to a halt because of the strike. But aren't they going to have the same challenges? Silly people...how dumb do you think we are?

I listened closely, but never did they mention Food Network.
Whew! What a relief. I'll be just fine.

Blessings.

A Mother's Prayer

If you had a magic bottle, or three wishes, or some kind of "get-what-you-ask-for" mechanism, and could provide anything for your children, what would you ask for? What would you want to make sure they received?


Obviously, we don't have that capability, for the most part. We can hope for a smooth road for them. Good health. A Godly spouse. Blessed children. Good jobs. Happiness...etc, etc.


But, honestly, if life is too smooth and everything goes exactly as planned, when do you put your faith into practice? When do you count how blessed you are, if you've always had everything go exactly how you planned?


Do you remember that time in your life when you were really trying to decide what you should do? That point right after childhood and right before true on-your-own adulthood when you're looking at the whole world and how you fit in it? It can be a bit overwhelming...and the thought of making a mistake with your life is an incredible burden to carry.


In my life, I've made many mistakes. In fact, I'm still making them. But there's a calm about me that knows (because I've experienced it over and over) that God is with me. He walks beside me, in front of me, behind me. He is there when I fall. He's there to pick me up and help set my feet on the correct path...again.


I was talking to one of my children last night and sharing with them some insight into a mother's prayer for her child. We don't pray for them to get a good job and make a lot of money, although, we're not against that. We don't pray for them to be famous. We don't pray for everything to go right for them.


No...we pray for children who will grow to know their position in the kingdom of God. We pray that the only thing their spouse loves more than your child is God, Himself. We pray that when things do go wrong, when difficulties arise, they will have the faith it takes to carry them through. We know that although getting a job is important, it won't be what they do but who they serve in life that matters most.



So, ultimately, what I want for my children is that relationship with their God that carries them through all things that will come their way.


That's what this mother prays for.

She Made It!

My baby girl called tonight to let us know she is (finally) a full member of the Ko Jo Kai service club. She has been pledging and going through initiations for what seems to be an eternity. I'm not sure how you can possibly keep your grades up while going through all the "stuff" they had to do, but I'll just trust she did...or has enough time to fix it before semester end.

Her dad and I got to write a "blessing" letter for her. This was a surprise to her and given to her tonight as part of a gift. What a wonderful experience.

I would like to propose that we write letters to those we love deeply. What a treasure to have something like that. To have people tell you what they appreciate and love about you. How you have impacted them and what they admire about you.

I did have to completely re-apply the make-up for the day after writing her letter, but it was such a good experience for me.

Maybe we could all take the time to sit down and share on paper how valuable someone is to us.

Blessings!

Football

My husband is very easy to please. Not demanding. Always wanting to make sure those around him (particularly his kids) are happy.

So, when daughter has friends over, she gets the front room T.V. to watch movies with them. When son wanted to watch his Discovery Channel shows, front room T.V.

However, it's just me now, with Lex, and the truth is, I record anything I want to watch and so whatever he wants to watch is fine with me.

Football, (pro and college, but particularly college), baseball, Nascar. I've seen more games and races in recent months than I have in my whole life combined! The truth is, I've learned quite a lot and have been enjoying the experience.

Friday night, our Fresno State football neighbors gave us two tickets to sit in the parent section of the FSU vs. BSU game. Big game. Stadium was packed. It's different watching a game where you know players. It's a little more personal. It was difficult for me to watch those boys get hit. (Of course, they did some hitting of their own!)

Now, as of last night, baseball season is over for now. Is there something else to take it's place, or am I just left with Nascar and Football?

Blessings...

Officially Old

Now that the kids are both away at school, my husband and I have found ourselves doing what any normal old couple does.


We eat dinner on T.V. trays and watch Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune.

Last night, we both decided we were bored. Tired of coming home and "plopping" without feeling productive after work.


Tonight, we went to run errands and go have a nice dinner together where we actually faced each other and chatted. (I mean chatted with each other and not with the T.V.)


It was wonderful, and then it happened.


As we were leaving the restaurant, our sweet young waiter thanked us again and told Lex...."have a nice evening, sir" We walked out a little further and the nice adorable hostess said, "goodnight, sir"


I heard Lex groan. "I've been 'sirred'", he said. "I'm officially old."


Oh...don't worry, honey. If we hurry we can catch the end of Dancing with the Stars!


Blessings!

BAD MUSIC!!

A few days ago, I had a post titled "Moving Music".



Today, my post is titled "Bad Music".



Yesterday, I had to have a little procedure done that hurt like crazy. Not just a little hurt, and I have a high pain thresh-hold mind you. A big hurt. For about an hour I was enduring some big pain...but what was even worse was the hour preceding.



The unknown is always a bit scary, isn't it? So, after they prepped me, the nurse said, "Let's turn on some music to relax you."



Aahhh...I thought...how wonderful. I love music. I need music. Yes, music is the key to my staying calm here.



I was wrong. As she left the room, she mentioned that sometimes the music has a "mind of it's own...kind of a now you hear it now you don't" she said as she left the room laughing.



I would love to tell you what they were playing, but I can't. I didn't recognize it. Country, Rock, Elevator, Classical, Punk, Christian, Heavy Metal, Jazz, Rap? Nope. None of those. It was some kind of disturbing new age kind of thing that you would hear in the background of a movie where something very horrible is about to happen. But, the nurse was right about one thing...it did keep cutting in and out.



I was in that room for about 30 minutes unable to move listening to that horrible stuff. I had to consciensciously decide to breath slowly and think about something good. I couldn't sing, or hum, because of the awful noise coming (or not coming) out of the little ceiling speaker. So, I thought of scripture. Over and over I said things in my head that comforted me.



Then, when the doctor and nurse came back in, they laughed at the "weird station" playing. I told them I thought it sounded like the soundtrack from a horror movie when somebody is in the basement and about to get slashed.



They both laughed and told me I was very funny, left the station on, pulled up the tray of evil looking utensils, and proceeded.



OUCH!!



Blessings.

Moving Music

I listened to a concert on DVD by one of my very favorite groups ever...


I know you probably expect something worship-like or christian-eze, and although there are numerous songs and artists I enjoy in that realm of music, I do believe my favorite all time group is the Eagles.


My big brother brought over their Farewell Concert I last night and we watched and listened as those amazingly talented boys played and played.


Good music, I mean really good music, can bring me to tears.


I'm the same girl who at a very young age, ran out of the room crying as we watched the ending to Cinderella on our T.V. My mom came to see what was wrong and all I could say through sobs and tears was that "her dress was so pretty", but now, I know it was a combination of the dress, yes, but even more potent for me was the amazing music that played in the background.


I am likely to have a tear or two at a beautiful symphony. I cried at Josh Grobin when he sang "You Raise Me Up". I cried when our children at church sang "What a Friend We Have in Jesus". That's just a sampling of what touches me deeply.


But if you get the chance, listen to those Eagles sing "There's a Hole in the World Tonight" written on the eve of September 11. The harmonies are absolutely amazing. Tight, Crisp, Beautiful. And the key change...oh my goodness, the key change!


http://eagles-there-039-s-a-hole-in-the-world-t-mp3-download.kohit.net/_/175194




Pass the tissues please!

Fellowship

The ZOE weekend in Nashville was wonderful.

Great speaking. Listened to a new speaker (new to me) and thought he had a beautiful gift of preaching.

Roof raising singing. Thoughtful lyrics...some wonderful new songs to pass on to the folks here in Fresno.

Great class sessions (I heard, but wasn't able to attend due to my personal "job" for the weekend).

But truly, the very best part of the conference, after 10 years of attending, is seeing the folks who I don't get to see often. It's such a beautiful part of the gathering...watching people see each other from across the foyer, the auditorium, the parking lot...yelling out to one another and rushing to grab a hug and catch up on life's happenings.

I was blessed to see my children. They were flown in to handle various jobs/tasks...and did a most excellent job, if I may say!

So, I guess, if the best part of the conference was the fellowship, the worst part, probably would be the moment in the Dallas airport when my husband and I went one direction to catch our plane to Fresno, and the kids went the opposite direction to catch their plane to Abilene. But even that wasn't too bad, because with my children were three of the most amazing people I know who happen to live in Abilene and love my kids. And, I know if my children need anything, they can call on these or any other number of people at ACU.

The family of God is a priceless gift that I am truly thankful for.

October 1...

Hard to believe it's October.

Looking forward to the Nashville ZOE Conference this week. And then, in January the West Coast ZOE Conference here in Fresno. It will be here before we know it! Make plans to join us in January. It is a beautiful, intimate, enriching weekend that will bless you in so many ways.
.................................................................

Elder selection is winding down at church. Just a few more weeks and we'll have new elders. We had an interesting "social" time yesterday after church/class allowing people to talk with the "candidates". So very interesting. People I've never seen dress up before were wearing suits! And, smiling! And they were even on time/early to services! Hopefully, if these folks become elders, they will continue their new road of goodness.

Without giving them too much grief, I think a "spotlight in the face" isn't such a bad thing every once in a while. We get complacent, lazy, comfortable, don't we? Sometimes, it's good to have to examine yourself because you know everybody else is going to be examining you!

So, whether we're an elder candidate or not, maybe it wouldn't be a bad idea to dust off our good clothes, smile a lot more, complain a lot less, and get to church not just on time, but early so we can greet and love on each other as we worship and serve together.

Blessings!

Psalm 139

Some of the message yesterday centered around Psalm 139.

As I prepared for Sunday, I read this Psalm through many times. Each time, I think a different verse popped up as my favorite at the moment.

However, the overwhelming favorite for the week was v. 17.

17 How precious are your thoughts about me,[b] O God. They cannot be numbered!


God thinks about me...How cool is that?!

What verse blesses you in that particular Psalm?

anonymous

I received a comment on my last post that came from an anonymous "friend".

I started thinking about what it would be like to go through life anonymously. Would I act any differently? Would I say things that I normally keep to myself? Maybe...but I hope not.

Christianity is, as you all know, a lifestyle. Not an occupation. It's who we are, not what we do. It's something that we live and breath and struggle with on a daily basis because of the humans we are...and the choices our gracious God has allowed us to have.

We are going through a time of choosing new elders for our church. I'm very excited about a few of the men being nominated, and quite reserved about some others. But the bottom line is, God is in charge and has a plan for this church. I'm not quite clear on the method that will be used to allow the church to "vote" (very bad term but you get what I'm saying) yes or no for an elder candidate, but I've heard we may allow anonymous comments as long as there aren't scriptural sitings against the candidate. If you have a scriptural basis for not wanting someone to take the role of Elder, you must sign your form.

I'm worried about the anonymous thing. If I have a reason I believe this person isn't qualified, or at least brings question in my mind, shouldn't I go to that person and talk about it? Aside from scriptural reasons, isn't there room to have a conversation where God is the center and honest concerns can be raised? But, if I were to be totally honest with you, I would admit that I probably will avoid that conflict if I know it will cause some kind of "thing" between me and the persons I'm concerned about.

So, for now, I've changed my blog settings to no longer allow anonymous comments, and I'll continue praying about my opportunity to share honest, non-anonymous concerns with my brothers.

Blessings.

When Does It Feel Normal?

There are moments that I miss those two kids so very much it actually aches...physically aches.

There were split seconds as Lex and I drove away from them toward the Dallas airport that I would turn to him and say, "my heart just cracked...really, it cracked. Did you hear it?"

There is this void in my life that I can't quite get used to, and yet, I know it's right. I know it's God's plan. I know it's happening in a beautiful way.

What I desire more than anything else for my children is that they follow God's plan, whatever that is, even if it doesn't fall in line with my plan. Because the only way I survive the horrible 1400 mile distance between us is to know, without a doubt, God has them in the palm of His hands. He is their guide, their hope, their rock. Why would I want anything different?

Yesterday, when Ash called to say "hi" after church, I told her Sunday was the worst day for my aching heart. I didn't know why, and she responded that on Sunday, we were all together the whole day. Getting to church early together, worshiping together, eating lunch together, laughing, watching movies, napping...together. So, of course that would be the day I missed them most.

So, yesterday, when one of my favorite people got up to lead a prayer for communion, I felt that silly lump in my throat that comes without warning. Not because it was communion, but because it was somebody my son has had a life long sweet friendship with. Because I can see them as 3 year old, 9 year old, 13 year old...together, building boats to go in the swimming pool, running through sprinklers together, hanging out after church together, building forts. All these memories come flooding through my mind at the most inopportune moments!

And now, this handsome, grown up, young man is leading the church in communion, and my boy is far away. (I know this may be the part where Brady comments something like "you're such a mess".)

I'm waiting for their absence to feel like the new normal. I wonder how long that will take?

Blessings!

Being Judged!

Being Judged is an awful thing... None of us like to have someone look at us or our life or our family and make a decision about us that sometimes is incorrect.

I am one of those people who rarely do things that I am not sure about, simply because I don't want people to be able to look at me or my actions and say, "what a fool! what was she thinking?" I prefer the safe route. However, sometimes that becomes boring.

So, when I decided to enter some photographs into the little Fresno Fair, you can understand my reservations. This is a big step for me...I'm taking quite a chance in this!

People I don't know, who don't know me, but seem to know a lot about photography, are going to look at what I bring them and decide whether it is worthy. Is this good enough to even be exhibited, much less receive some kind of ribbon?

At this point, I'm just hoping at least one of the four entries get into the exhibit itself. I don't care about ribbons...yet.

So, I'll let you know. And, you understand, don't you?...how much of a risk I took, knowing my personality and the way I despise failure, that I shared this with you at all? Right?

I could have just said nothing, and then when the pictures do get into the exhibit, we could rejoice together...or when they are declined, I wouldn't even have to tell you.

Blessings!

Bucket-O-Snakes

Our "Ladies Day" is Saturday morning at church. This consists of a morning of beautiful women, singing, brunching, listening, praying, laughing and lunching.

This year, for reasons I'm not positive, someone is posing as "Eve", and needed a snake to finish off her outfit.

My Avery had many snakes throughout his young life. Some we "snake-sat" during school vacations, but most are rubber or this very cool technique using wood which makes these fake snakes look very alive.

So, I started looking in his closet for the Bucket-O-Snakes.

Avery is a saver. A saver of Tonka Trucks, Lego's, Fire Trucks, Thunder Loop Tracks (I can still hear him saying "Thunder Loop" with his sweet young voice), Hot Wheels, and robots. His closet is full of these things as well as his Architectural Drawings from High School, his DVD's (MacGyver, My Name Is Earl, Dukes of Hazzard), stacks of magazines, and of course, clothes.

He not only saves, he takes care of. So, these things from years gone by are in as good a shape today as they were when he received them.

Lex was brave enough to climb in the closet and search for the popcorn tin holding the snakes, and as he opened it, we discovered more saved items. Not only snakes, but military patches from his Grandpa, his Dad's old Class B license from 15 years ago, and notes. Piles of notes. Notes Lex and I had written on little pieces of paper and stuck in the lunch box. Notes that said, "I love you", "Have a Great Day", "Praying for your spelling Test", "Can't wait to see you after school", "You are precious to me"...as well as countless other little things.

We think, as parents, we need to keep up with the latest things not only for ourselves, but for our kids. We need to make sure we provide them with everything they not only need to survive, but need to succeed. As I looked through that bucket, I realized there wasn't much $ worth attached to it, but the worth of my son becoming an amazing young man is there. There are representations from many people in his life who loved him unconditionally and believed in him at every turn.

That bucket is invaluable.

We all have a bucket...Are you filling them with goodness?

Philippians 4:8 (New International Version)

8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

This is the view from the "garden roof top" level of the hotel Lex and I stayed in on Sunday night.

Lex gets very few days off, particularly two days in a row, so we took advantage of this new "empty nester" phase and the Monday holiday (which happened to be my birthday, also!) and took off out of town after church Sunday.

Fresno had 100+ degree temps and the coast stayed at an even 65 degrees. Aahhh....heaven!

Constant 65 degree temps...free of charge!
Discovering an amazing bowl of clam chowder...$8.95
Receiving Happy Birthday phone calls from my kids and a quiet weekend with my husband...Priceless!

Blessings!

Phone Call

I was racing around yesterday morning getting ready for work. It was about 8:00 and had just finished getting my make-up on, and had cut up a slew of things for the salad we were going to serve at Wednesday Night Dinner at church.

Feeling rather good that all this was done, I headed to the back of the house to finish up and head out the door when my cell phone rang. It was my Avery.

"Hey Mom...I'm in Bible with Mike and we're doing that thing."

"That thing" Avery was referring to is a tradition for Mike Cope and his Freshman Bible students. He has them all (300 of them!) call a parent or grandparent and then hold the phone in the air as he speaks to all of us. Last year, I was having lunch with an Elder and our other minister when Ashley called. I had to excuse myself and head outside the Applebees to listen and cry.

But this year, I won't be as mushy, right? I know what's coming, right?

Nope!

Mike Cope starts talking..."Good Morning parents. My name is Mike Cope and I'm here with your son or daughter in Freshman Bible. I just wanted to tell you we are going to walk through the life of Jesus together and learn more about him as we grow closer to him. I want you to know we love your children and pray for them. And we thank you for the sacrifice you've made to allow them to be here, both financially and personally as you've let them go away from home."

And then the whole class sings "I Love You With the Love of the Lord", and "Lord I Lift Your Name On High".

It may sound sappy. You may think this is just too much mush. But when it's your child there, those words mean the world to you.

Yes, I was a mess...and Yes, I had to touch up the make-up.

Blessings!

First Day of School!

Most of you know I'm a big mush when it comes to my kids. Some of you are, also, whether you admit it or not!

Today was the first day of school at ACU. I couldn't be there to pack their lunch, iron their clothes, make sure they had what they needed, pray over them the night before, or kiss them good bye as they walked out the door with the constant reminder..."I love you. I'm proud of you!"

Sad as that is for me, I look at this pic that they so sweetly had someone take for their mushy mom, and think, "hmmm. looks like they managed without me!"

They look clean and pressed and happy. Maybe they will survive without my constant help. (nagging/help, whatever you want to call it!)

So, thanks God. You've shown me again that although I have a role in their lives, it's constantly changing and ultimately, you are the master planner. You are the one who has created them in your image with a purpose. And, only you truly know what that is.

So, happy first day of school to you, sweet children. I love you and I'm proud of you!

Weather?

I was helping Ashley move into her nice-new-just-remodeled dorm today when, and I'm not kidding you, the SKIES OPENED UP AND DUMPED, I mean DUMPED, water down. They called it rain, but I've never ever seen it "rain" like that before. This was the kind of rain that if you were a small child or old person, you're liable to be lost. Lost in the rivers that used to be parking lots. Lost in the rapidly moving complete with waves and all waters moving through streets.

Nobody who has lived there, including my daughter, seemed too worried. One of the girls came in and said, "um, Mrs. Henderson, if you want to get to your car later, you may want to move it now." What!? She said it with such ease and not a worried tone in her voice. But to me, that seemed extreme. Ashley just giggled, knowing I was secretly freaking out on the inside but still looked pretty cool on the outside.

I did move my car, after taking off my sandals and hoisting up my skirt in order to walk barefoot through the ocean that had taken up residence in the parking lot, to my car. Took Ashley to her next meeting and drove back to the hotel.

My key wouldn't work so I went to the front desk and asked if they could check it or reprogram it or something like that...(where is Lex?! I'm tired of doing all this without Lex!)

She smiled her sweet smile and said "oh, we're sorry ma'am. What room are you in?" I told her and she replied, "sometimes these get de-magnetized when we have "a little weather" like this."

A little weather?! Is that what we're calling this?

I'm sticking my head out right now looking for two things. My boys (they should be arriving any time now), and a rainbow. I need to see that rainbow!

Blessings!

Extra Carrots?

So, I'm at Subway eating my sandwich by myself reading a new book. Ashley is running all over town trying to round up donations for "welcome week" and this is the first meal I'm alone in Abilene. (that could be a great country song!)


I was enjoying my new book...almost as much as my Subway Melt (turkey, ham, and bacon).


My Melt had extra cheese, as well as tomatoes, pickles, wax peppers, and mayo. Salt and pepper was added at the end and I forgot to mention it was on some new kind of cheese bread. I was reading and eating...really enjoying the solitude when a voice started ordering her sandwich in kind of a pushy way so my ears perked up but my eyes stayed on the book.


Turkey on whole wheat, no cheese, (what!?), bell pepper, carrots, and cucumber..."lots of carrots, please", and when asked about "toppings" (mayo, mustard, oil, vinegar, etc etc) she replied, "oh no, none!" (with a southern drawl) and then when asked about salt and pepper she replied that she would take a pinch of pepper but that "salt will kill you!"


Yikes! I really wanted to keep reading, but couldn't help it. I had to look at this very obviously health conscience person. YUP...I knew it. Wearing some kind of athletic jogging outfit tight on every piece of her body stood this beautiful, kind of pushy, very toned body of a woman that I will NEVER look like. I guess you are what you eat.


Please pass the carrots...(and can I get extra dip with that?)


Blessings.

Cajun Cones

I love ice. When I get a drink at a fast food place, I fill the cup overflowing with ice and add the drink, whatever will fit, on that.

I have a shaved ice machine from Target in my kitchen.

So, when Ashley asked me if I wanted a Cajun Cone yesterday, I was quick to respond an emphatic YES!

MMMmmmmmmmmm......yummy.

If you've been to Abilene, you have probably had, or at least heard about Cajun Cones. They are a seasonal kiosk open from 2:00 - 10:00 pm. serving the most yummy snow cone like substance you've ever had!

mmmmm......wild cherry.......yum

Abilene

Yesterday was one of those days that felt like two or three rolled together.

Our time of worship together was wonderful. The message, the singing together, fellowship through communion, and other "God moments" that can only happen because He is present and working through us in spite of our short comings...

We ran a half hour long, which is inconvenient for the teachers trying to present a class in the next hour, but particularly worrisome for those of us trying to catch a plane headed to Texas right after services!

The boys raced Ashley and I to the airport where we actually had time after check in to grab a bite before the plane boarded.

3 hour flight to Dallas...then grab a rental car and another 3 hour journey to Abilene.

We arrived at the hotel in Abilene at 11:00 pm, which, according to Mike Cope is the best time to see Abilene. (in the dark)

As I stretched my tired bones out on the box they had made up to be a bed, I thought about what a beautiful morning it had been...and wondered how we fit it all into one day!

Then I remembered last year this time, how sad I was, how desperate I felt to hang on to my children (knowing it wasn't possible), and how much I prayed for God to protect and take care of my first baby leaving the nest.

Last night, I prayed the same prayer, but with a different feeling. Praise God for His goodness, his mercy, his patience. I'm so grateful He has brought me to this point of confidence in His care and guidance.

Ashley is here to begin work on the "Welcome Week Committee", welcoming new freshmen to the school next week. (particularly her little brother) Lex and Avery will be driving on Thursday and Friday to arrive in time to move Avery into his dorm.

Oh, there will be tears, there is no doubt. But, with life comes wisdom and understanding. Knowing that God is there and will continue to protect those you love even when they are not close at hand.

Blessings...

Oceano Dunes

It is difficult to tell you all that happened this weekend...

First, we were pushing it to make it in time to connect with the folks renting us the trailer.

Then, after getting there, we had to be pulled into the soft sand by not one, but two trucks. Our truck is 2 wheel drive and with the flat bed attached it could make it on the hard pack, but the soft sand was another story.

So, we get back there and the only truck that could get in and out was Avery's. Who, by the way, never got stuck once! I learned trailer living and actually enjoyed having no place to go and no way to get there even if I had wanted to. I finished my book (East of Eden...Steinbeck...great book!) and enjoyed some close quality time with my daughter.

The boys spent hour upon hour far back in the Dunes. Avery connected with some very nice guys he has met through an on line 4x4 club. These guys were sent from heaven, because when it came time to leave, they had to pull us and our trailer out of the soft sand.

I learned so much about camping. I learned you have to "air down" your tires on the soft sand and then air back up when you get on pavement or your tires will "fold".

I learned how to conserve water. I learned to actually enjoy the sounds of quads, sand rails, trucks, ATV's of all kind. I learned not to jump out of my skin every time a "not-so-legal" firework explodes while I'm enjoying my campfire...oh, I learned to build a killer camp fire and make s'mores. I learned that a hot dog tastes best, I mean wonderfully delicious, after being roasted over a campfire that you've built.

I learned to have an enormous respect for my son and all he is capable of...not because of his father and I, but just because he's taught himself much.

I learned that my daughter is a beautiful and sweet sister who is willing to be a little uncomfortable as long as her brother is having a blast.

I learned again, how precious my family is to me. There's nobody in the world I'd rather be with than those three people.

It was a wonderful weekend.

What a blessing to have new adventures and experiences to share with people you love!

Soaking it Up!

I'm still here...
It's been quite a while since I blogged, but remember, Randy Wray says there's no guilt in blogland.

I've been soaking up every minute with my fun kids. I love having my sweet daughter home and I'm trying to look at Avery as someone who is ready to leave the nest. I'm not convinced, but he'll be fine. He's an amazing, caring, capable young man. I'm just really going to miss both of them.

Remember those games you've played where you use the little sand timers? Don't you remember that when it gets close to the end, the sand seems to run at the speed of light? That's what it feels like. We're coming to the end of the summer, and the sand is running out on my time with them!

We are going camping this weekend on the dunes. I'm going to pause here for those of you who know me well, so you can read that sentence one more time... Yes, I'm going camping.

Some say it's not camping until you're in a tent with no electricity...I say it's camping if I'm in a trailer on the sand with no outlets. So, I'll see if there are any pictures I'm willing to let you see next week when we get back...but, I'm looking forward to a new adventure with my gang. The Ocean, Sand, Avery driving his truck on the dunes, a good book, and S'Mores. What isn't fun about that?

Bless You...

Here it Comes!

We are taking care of some friend's cats/home while they are away for a few weeks. They have two temperamental cats (is there any other kind of cat?) and a beautiful home and a pool...

So, Sunday night, the four of us went over to feed the kitties and then enjoy the swimming pool together. It was relaxing and fun and peaceful.

BUT...while we were all lounging in the pool, it hit me how soon these days would be gone. My mind went racing to the moment I have to say good bye and walk away and come back home without either of my children. I've done well, so far. Last year this time, I had cried a million times already...but, I thought this year, I was all grown up and ready...NOPE!

Lex looked at me and said, "babe?...uh-oh...Mom's losin' it!"

I cried and cried. I totally lost it. Crying and crying and finding myself in the depths of sadness.

My family started laughing. My crying was so dramatic, it even made me laugh. So, we laughed and I cried and we laughed more. It was crazy and good all at the same time.

Avery asked me why I was crying and I couldn't even form a sentence, which made them laugh more. So, we spent minutes laughing and crying...together. (me crying...them laughing)

July 1 is when the tears started...better than last year! I had been crying since the Thanksgiving prior to taking her to school. Maybe if I'd had a few more kids...by the time I got to the 4th or 5th one, I would only cry the moment I walked away...or maybe not at all! Nah....who am I trying to fool!?

Blessings!