Sweet Girl...

There are moments when you think parenting is absolutely the hardest most thankless job you will ever tackle! And then there are days when you think there is nothing more beautiful than being a momma or daddy. Yesterday, I received these flowers. Husband and son are in Pepperdine working for the ZOE Group at Lectureship, so, naturally, I thought as I received them that husband may be sending me the "I miss you" bouquet.

Then came the reading of the card:

"Momma, I just wanted you to know that I love you and I appreciate everything you do for me and everyone else too! I can't wait to see you soon. I love you so much - plus one! Love, Ashley Marie"

One of our sweet volunteers, whom I've known since about Kindergarten, came back to me with these flowers. She actually had the Youth Minister carry them because they were too heavy for her...but she wanted to be here with me when I read the card. You see, she and the secretary up front had already read it! (don't you love church family?) And, she thought that when I read it, I would need a hug. She thought I might cry or something silly like that.

She is a very wise woman...

Exhausted!

I'm writing this at my own risk.

I am quite exhausted and discouraged, and that never bids well for the writings of a blog, does it?

So, here's my single rant for the day.

People who are constantly late. Late to work. Late to dinner. Late to the meeting. Late to worship. You get my drift.

However, they all basically say, "I'm more important than you. My time is more valuable than your time." At least that's how I see it. Which may be why it bothers me so!

But my very favorite are the people who are late to worship and then are mad because there aren't any seats in the back for them to slip into. I guess they don't want everybody else to know how late they really are. The worship team sees them, the speaker sees them, the people in the back corner have their worship disrupted, every week. But, really, to be angry because there wasn't a seat saved for you 15-20 minutes after start time?

I'm not sure how to respond to that.

So, probably through lack of better judgement, I'll just blog about it and get it off my chest!

I feel much better...at least until next Sunday around 9:20 when I watch it happen all over again!

Blessings.

Diets...II

So, I was complaining to Lex that I just didn't think this diet was for me and, although I'm willing to continue cooking to accommodate he and sweet son, I was going to have to do something different. I was ranting, in a sort of gentle way, that I haven't seen enough change in the scale and that just wasn't going to cut it for me. I was continuing on about how they were losing more because men and women are just built different and what works for them doesn't necessarily work for me. As I continued on, really not even talking to him any longer...just talking out loud, he quietly said my name about three times. I heard it but couldn't imagine why he was interrupting my beautiful dissertation when I finally became irritated and said...

"What!?"
"But do you feel better? Do you have more energy? Are you sleeping better at night?"

O brother. What stupid questions. I'm talking about pounds here! Not feelings!

Lex continues..."I don't know why people are so wrapped up in the scale thing. It's about health. About how you feel. The pounds come off eventually if you're doing good things for your body."

Good grief! He just doesn't know anything about competitive dieting!

Blessings!

Diets

A few weeks ago, my boys and I decided for various reasons that we needed to eat healthier.

So, we set out on a little healthy competition. They (the boys) felt comfortable with an "Adkins-type" diet and I agreed, wanting to be the supportive spouse and mother that I am. Adkins, as you all know, is a high protein low carb diet eating plan. Lots of meat, chicken, fish, sausage, bacon, cheese, whole milk, all fat sour cream. You are supposed to eat plenty of vegies (but the right kind of vegies...no carrots, corn, potatoes).

Let me say, on this the end of week three, I am sick of meat patties and green beans. AND, to top it off, I, the one who usually loses 10-15 lbs the first two weeks of a diet, have only lost 6 lbs! Yes, you heard me correctly. 3 weeks = 6 lbs. Avery, however, lost 6 lbs the first week he was on it.

Goodness. I need to make some adjustments because let me tell you, I just can't let that kid pass me up on the weight loss competition!

There are so many things he can do that I can't do. Math, Science, Computers, Build Rockets, Tear apart and re-build engines...just for the fun of it, Lift couches. But this, the diet thing, I'm the master of this. He can't beat me at this, too!

O.K. It's on baby!

Blessings!

Psalm 33:13-15

"The Lord looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. From his throne he observes all who live on the earth. He made their hearts, so he understands everything they do."

Watching the news can be discouraging. I find myself asking "why?!?" an awful lot. So much doesn't make sense to me. The anger, the destruction, the sadness, the harm done to one another. But then, I open my Bible and because I rest in the book of Psalm quite often, there is a page loose, close to coming out. That page wiggled its way out today and I found the verse above.

I don't need to know why. I can't fix the world. But, I can pray to have the heart of God so that I see people the way God does. I'm not God. I won't ever understand everything, as He does. I can just keep trying and rest in the fact that God does know...God does understand...God does love.

Blessings.

Honoring God

I've been thinking a lot about my purpose...

I used to think my main purpose was to be a good mother. To raise my children to love and respect God as well as themselves.

When I was younger, (much younger) I thought maybe my purpose was to write and sing music that would bring people closer in relationship with Jesus Christ.

I've thought about my role in the church and how God-driven it has been, so, obviously (wink, wink) that must have been my purpose...to lead worship?

Have you seen the story that is all over the news? Oprah, Matt Lauer interviews, Internet...about the girls from Taylor University in a horrific accident. Their identity was switched, so for 5 weeks, one family thought their daughter was dead while all along was in a hospital bed. The family of the dead girl stood by the girl in the hospital for 24 hours a day for 5 weeks thinking that was their daughter/sister.

What is amazing about this story, is the love and mercy and godliness that exudes from both families. I watched them interviewed again last night on a taped Oprah show. I saw Oprah visibly shaken with the story, but more important, their shining hearts for Jesus. I heard Matt Lauer from the Today Show talk about this being absolutely the two nicest families he's ever met and how this story will never leave him. He talked about how their faith was evident and he will forever be affected by their story.

After watching this with Lex, I said that I hope and pray I never have to deal with such heartbreaking things. I can't imagine the pain and the suffering both these families have endured. But, look at the way the world is seeing the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ because of their suffering. Isn't that our purpose? To bring glory to God in all circumstances so that the world will see Him in us?

They were asked by Oprah about anger, resentment, possible legal action against those who mistakenly I.D.'d their daughters. The father of the living girl replied that because of the forgiveness he's been given through Jesus Christ, how can he turn around and be angry? And the other father when asked about his anger regarding losing his beautiful daughter replied that he didn't see it as loss...he just hasn't seen the whole picture, yet. They will be together in heaven.

Wow.
So, whatever my "job", or "title" or "stage of life", whether things run smooth or tragedy hits, my purpose is to bring glory to the Father so that the world will notice Him in me. Sounds simple. But it was a good light bulb moment for me.

Blessings

What Defines Us

I talk in great length about my family. My precious children, my sweet husband, my nephew, my friends...

I think, if you didn't know me personally, you would not know that I am also a Worship Minister for a place I love with all my heart.

I don't talk often about that for many reasons...

My work at the church has so many layers. I never want to complain or "air dirty laundry" on the world wide web. Much of what we know or hear or talk about is private. And, most weeks, I am so overwhelmed by the amazing task in front of me, I really can't even speak about it. To be given the opportunities I've been given, particularly as a woman, is so far beyond what I expected that I really don't have words to describe it.

Last Sunday, though, I was so proud of a moment...so blessed by a God driven plan...so amazed, again, that as hard as I "work", it is really the Spirit and God himself who unfolds the goodness for us to see.

There was a song, "Jesus, Let Us Come to Know You", and there was a girl. A beautiful, 5th grade, poised, humble, gifted young girl. The Worship Team "ooo-ed" and she sang:

Jesus, let us come to know you
Let us see you face to face
Touch us, hold us, use us, mold us
Only let us live in you.

Goodness...people were touched beyond measure. It wasn't her voice, although that was clear and beautiful. It wasn't her beautiful dress, although it was breathtakingly gorgeous. It wasn't even her age, although that, too, had a measure of sweetness that an adult couldn't have pulled off.

It was her heart. Her precious, humble, innocent heart. Her mother told her not to worry about the people. Just sing to God.

What we do is about the glory, the love, the exalting of God...not us.

She was perfect. She taught a sermon in one little song.

So, although you will hear me talk about my blessings as a wife and mother often, Sunday, I stood amazed, again at the wisdom and work of God. I felt honored, humbled, so grateful that I have the opportunity to serve Him in this capacity.

Blessings!

Sweet Boy

I don't often talk about my son for a couple of reasons...


First, he doesn't like the world knowing his business, and I respect that. And, second, he doesn't live his life to be in the spotlight, and I admire that, also.


But, let me say that he is an amazing young man.


He goes to homes of our church folks to fix computers, or program their cell phones, or whatever tech problem they may be having.


He takes time to talk to little ones at church, bending to their level and taking great interest in what they have to say. And, at the same time, will stand with an elderly person for a very long time talking and sharing and taking in their wisdom.

He's one of the people in the back of the church hauling in chairs when we run out of seats.

He has a work ethic that is extraordinary. And a black and white attitude to what is right and wrong.


He loves his sister without measure.


He protects his mom.


He admires his dad.


He loves and serves God.


He's extremely intelligent, but always humble about his knowledge.


He is a precious boy.


He is outside right now washing my car...just because it needed it. Not because I asked.


Thank you, God. What a treat it is to be his mother.

Beautiful Scenery

One Saturday morning recently, Lex offered to take me and my amateur
photography senses to the foothills.
He has a route that encompasses mainly rural areas and includes some beautiful scenery!


Here are a few pics from the morning.


Lamentations 3:25,26
The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.

Back to Normal

I love vacations and normalcy breaks. Holiday's are exciting. Days off are beautiful.

But, what is it about getting back to the "normal" routine that feels so good? There is a safety and calm that accompanies "normal routine".

It's Tuesday. Ladies Bible Class is back in session. People are back from Spring Break. Our folks from the Mexico Mission trip are home. Ashley is back in Abilene. And everything feels like it should.

I appreciate a break in the action, but I love getting back to the familiar schedule.

I hope your Easter was beautiful.

Blessings!

Spring Break and Breakfast Burritos

I have been making Breakfast Burritos on Sunday evenings, storing them in the fridge for the boys to warm up in the mornings before they go off to work. 45 seconds in the microwave wrapped in a moist paper towel and you have a fairly healthy protein filled breakfast. Better than nothing.


This week was Spring Break for Ashley, and she has been home, which, of course makes me very happy. We have enjoyed our time together. She was part of an amazing group of people who sang this morning in our Easter Choir. As she sang "Redeemer", the singers were doing our "ooo's" and "ahh's", it was hard to stay focused. I really just wanted to stop and watch her sing. She is amazing. Beautiful, passionate, talented. But it's not just those things that make me watch her with an amazed heart. It is the joy of watching your own child sing a song that states "Well, I know my Redeemer lives..." with great passion and conviction. That is such a blessing.


So, I'm in the kitchen tonight making my usual Breakfast Burritos. Ashley, her Dad and brother, and a friend are in the front room watching a movie. I hear all the sounds...the familiar "every body's home where they belong" sounds. And then it hits me. She will fly back tomorrow morning.


It wasn't just a little tear here and there...oh no, it was the full-on Lucille Ball cry. But fairly silent...didn't want to disturb the movie...or be made fun of for being such a mush.


She left the room for a little intermission break and I told her to come see me in the kitchen when she walked back through. What I meant to do was tell her how proud I was of her. How fun it was having her home. How very special she is. And how very much I love her. But what came out was, well, nothing. She took one look at me and started laughing as she opened her arms and said..."Oh, mama..." We laughed, I cried, and never could say a word. Then she walked back in for the rest of her movie.


I am blessed.

I hope your Easter was filled with moments that brought you closer to your Savior!

God Working...

I am looking forward to this morning...it is 7:00 a.m. Sunday morning, and so far, the person speaking and I are the only ones at the building. However, in about 15 minutes, the worship team will be rolling in.

I love some of the songs we're singing this morning. Every week, we sing something that is a favorite of mine, not because we sing the same things over and over, but because thousands of songs are my favorites!

However, it's not the song itself that is exciting to me, although it is a beauty. It is because one of the singers, singing for the very first time, will be singing a part in a trio. I found out, accidentally, that she sings beautifully. I already knew I loved her as a woman of God and sister in Christ, but when I found out she can pull out that alto part, I was giddy!

She refused flat my first prodding of singing with us, but after prayer, came back and told me that God is dealing with her in this particular area of faith. Then, I made it worse by telling her she would be singing a special trio without other altos. She was close to angry, in a loving way, that I would even suggest it. Absolutely not, she told me last Sunday. I asked her to listen to the song, pray about it, and if she said "no", I would respect it.

Early last week, she came in and said that she didn't know why, but God was calling her to this and she had no other option but to obey!

So, this morning, she will lift her voice for the first time on a worship team, and aside from probably feeling a bit emotional about it, I will be very proud that I was able to watch God work and shape an amazing woman into an even more beautiful child of his. She has taught me much through this.

She is Scared. She is Anxious. She is Faithful. She is Obedient.

"Carl's Jr., a fast food chain, has announced the return of two items to its menu, chili cheese burgers and chili cheese fries.", stated a Feb 22 press release.

This, my friends, makes me very, very happy.

"Welcome to Carl's Jr. Can I take your order?"
"Yes. Can I please have an order of your Chili Cheese Fries...light on the chili, heavy on the cheese, please. Oh, and a large Diet Coke."

Mmmmm...lunch today was delightful.

Blessings!

Good Friends

I can't believe it's been a whole week since I last blogged! Time is swooshing by at high speed.

One of the sweetest experiences I had this week was a short drive to Modesto (about 1 1/2 hours from Fresno) to have lunch with a dear friend from my past life. We all have those people who are so special to us but no longer intersect with us on a daily or even yearly basis. I get a Christmas letter from her each year, so I feel I have "kept up", but to actually sit and have a long leisurely lunch with conversation was absolutely priceless!

As we sat and talked, we literally couldn't get it all in. There is so much I still want to say, or ask, or remind and laugh about, but it was a start. I remembered how precious she was to me during that time. What a good friend she was for me. How very blessed I am to have a friend like her. Because, the truth is, I have always known that although we didn't keep in close contact, I could have called if I had needed her.

She was the friend who came to be with me and help take care of my little Ashley, (7 months old at the time), while I endured my Dad's death and funeral and the days that followed. She was the friend who stood up as my very best matron of honor. We were college roommates and I don't remember much that we learned in class, but I do remember some life lessons we experienced together.

She has always been that gentle, kind, hilarious friend. I don't know if everybody is blessed with one like her, but I am so grateful that I am.

So, my advice is that if you have a great friend from the past, give him/her a call this week...

Blessings!

Psalm 89:15-18 (NLT)

Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship,
for they will walk in the light of your presence, Lord.

They rejoice all day long in your wonderful reputation.
They exult in your righteousness.

You are their glorious strength.
It pleases you to make us strong.

Yes, our protection comes from the Lord,
and he, the Holy One of Israel, has given us our king.

Blessings!

SingSong 08

I had the pleasure of heading to Texas last weekend for the annual Sing Song event at ACU. I had never seen the production before and must say, WOW!

The clubs all competed with amazing talent and coordination. If you don't know anything about SingSong, ask someone who has been and they'll gush for a long time about the amazing production this little school puts on.

It was exciting to be there as my daughter's club, the Kojies, WON! They (all 100 of them!) were the cutest Honey Bees you've every seen singing things like "Taking Care of Beezness", and "Don't Stop Beelievin", among other things. Our friend, Blaine Martin, from Fresno, also won. His club, Galaxy, happens to be the "brother" club of the Kojies. What a fun time it was!

I've been waiting to post about it because I wanted to give you a link to the Kojie performance. So far, no link, but when I get it, I'll post it. As a side note, our friends Clifford and Mary Reeves were there also because their grandson, Ben, was a "Sing Song Host". He sang and performed beautifully. I'm sure they were very proud!

Now that this time consuming event is over, maybe those kids can get back to studying!

Blessings!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

I hope these love notes have blessed you...made you feel special...given you confidence in the great love the Father has for you. And for today:

John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Thank you, God.

My Prayer for You

So, for today's love note, enjoy the following...

Ephesians 3:16-19
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge -- that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Have a blessed day thinking on his love for you!

Love Notes

So for our second day of love notes, I give you this:

Romans 5:6-8
You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Have a happy day confident in the knowledge that you are loved.

You Are Loved

It's Valentines Week. So, for this week, until Thursday, I will send you all "love notes".

Dear child,

John 14:1-3
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."
Love,
Jesus

Blessings.

Tight Schedule

Have you ever noticed that the busier you are, the more you get done?

Let's see if I can phrase that a different way. The less I have to do, the less time it seems I have to do things.

Hmmm...still not clear.

The more I have to do, the more time I find to do more.

Are you getting me at all?

I've noticed that when I have much to do, I tend to be very scheduled and organized. However, my natural self isn't scheduled and organized, so when I have an abundance of free time, or time to myself, I tend to get less done. Isn't that silly? Is there any body else like that?

Just wondering.
Blessings!

Tag?

So, my brother "tagged" me, which means I'm supposed to pick up the nearest book with at least 123 pages, go to page 123, find the first 5 sentences, post the next 3 sentences.

O.K. There are many books that surround me. Lots of Bibles in different translations, many old books in my office that I cherish because this particular office used to belong to my friend, Wes Schmidt. Analytical Concordance to the Bible, Word Studies in the Greek New Testament, The New English Bible with the Apocrypha...seriously folks, remember this office used to belong to someone else and I cherish his books. I have not, I must admit, read them all!

But the things that really surround me at the moment are music books. New music, Old hymns, and my wonderful Praise and Worship Bible that is falling apart.

So, from the Bible, here it is: "Finally, they made the sacred medallion of pure gold to be worn on the front of the turban. Using the techniques of an engraver, they inscribed it with these words: SET APART AS HOLY TO THE LORD. This medallion was tied to the turban with a blue cord, just as the Lord had commanded Moses."

From my current book of music I am listening to: "Refiner's fire, my heart's one desire is to be holy, set apart for You, Lord. I choose to be holy, set apart for You, my Master, ready to do Your will. Holy Spirit, rain down, rain down."

And from our beloved hymn book: "Give me thy heart, says the Father above. No gift so precious to Him as our love. Softly He whispers wherever thou art, Gratefully trust me, and give me thy heart."

O.K. There you go. That was cool. Thanks, Steve.
Blessings!

ZOE Weekend

It was such a good weekend here in Fresno with the ZOE Group. They are beautiful folks with Godly hearts. Not perfect, but always seeking to be more like Jesus...

There were so many great moments throughout the weekend. You would hear a different thing with each person you talked to. I think the beauty of a Spirit filled time is that we don't have to manipulate the thing to please everybody or make every person attending happy and fulfilled. That's the job of the Spirit. You provide your heart and the Spirit provides the healing, or the learning, or the loving, or the reconciliation, or the desire to come closer to the Creator. Whatever it was/is that we needed, it was available. It was truly living water.

I had the opportunity to spend concentrated amounts of time with individuals I loved and respected, but hadn't spent much time with. Stephen Bailey, you are a treasure! What a precious soul. And, if you ever get the chance to see Kent Mereness paint...oh my goodness! Go see it!

And, then there are the old friends that feel like you've just wrapped a beautiful quilt around your shoulders. Safe, warm, steadfast. Sally, Jack and Jill, Brandon, Sheryl, Karin, Jason, Eno, and many others! What a blessing to be with you.

I am always proud of our folks for the way they treat the ZOE group as well as those coming to take in the conference. College Church is a place of grace and hospitality. Lee Smith and Bill Barksdale head up a crew of folks that put on the most amazing dinners for the ZOE group. You couldn't get the kind of meal they provide here at any restaurant in the world. It is absolutely the best thing I've ever seen! And, they do it with such love...mmmmm...makes the food taste even better!

And, this year we had over 30 churches represented from 6 different states. That's really cool.

So, if you're not busy next year, start planning now to come be with us on the 4Th weekend of January. You won't be sorry...You will be blessed!

ZOE

I have been thinking about the ZOE Conference coming in just a couple of days to Fresno...

It strikes me that they have consistently given me opportunity to learn new things to apply as I take this journey from earth to heaven. I have often thought about how much I've learned because of their love and constant support and teaching.

But, if I were to be totally honest, it really hasn't been the actual class times that have meant the most. It's the relationships. When you travel together, whether from the same town, the same church, or thousands of miles apart, the load is easier. When there is sadness, you share in that together. When there is enormous confusion or pain, you have friends to lighten the load. When there is joy, it is multiplied because your friends feel that joy with you.

I'm so grateful for this group of people God has delivered to me. They have made my walk so beautiful and sweet because they not only teach it or sing it...they live it. They show themselves to be genuine and Godly...not perfect, never acting as if they have all the answers...they simply say..."Come, walk with us and we'll walk with you...and together, we'll discover Christ crucified, Forgiveness multiplied, and God glorified."

If you aren't busy, stop by and join in the walk this weekend as they share their hearts with us for the 5th Annual ZOE West Coast Conference.

Blessings...

Early Sunday

It is about 6:40 on Sunday morning and the church is very quiet. In fact, it's even still dark outside.

This is one of my favorite times in the whole week. I get to church early, make coffee, make sure things are in order and then go to my office and spend a few minutes with God. It's so quiet. No phones. Nobody in the halls. No noise. Just me and God.

Colossians 3:12
Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Beautiful. He chose us. Beautiful.

ZOE Conference this week in Fresno. Hope to see you all here.

Blessings.

It is hard for me to believe that this beautiful girl is 20 years old today!


I have said this often, but one of the things I will want to say to my God face to face one day, will be that I am so grateful He allowed me to be the mother of these two sweet children. Truly one of my greatest blessings here on earth.


So, Happy Birthday, sweet Ashley. With each year you become more beautiful inside, more passionate about a lost world, and more amazing in gifts and talents. I am so very proud of you!


Have a beautiful day!

Watching...

Isn't it fun just to sit back and see what God is doing?



Isn't it amazing to look down a road you've recently traveled and see a portion of what He was and is doing?



Isn't it delightful to see Him work amazing things in someone specific?



I think God is so awesome. Really, truly awesome.



Let me take a quick minute to say that the Youth Minister He brought us is obviously something Spirit led and divinely handled. Why do we doubt so often? He always comes through...always!



That's just a tiny blip on the radar of the movement He's showing in our church. I'm so grateful for his faithfulness...I'm so thankful for his patience and understanding as He continues to do mighty things in us in spite of our weaknesses.



God, you are so good.

Proverbs 16:3

Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.

Don't you just love that!?
Now, that's a good resolution.

Blessings.

2008

Happy New Year...



I've had the same resolution for most of my adult life. Obviously, I need to pick a new resolution. One I can feel successful and accomplished about at the end of the year!



What about you? Do you all make resolutions?



Blessings for a healthy 2008 filled with evidence of God working in and around you!

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.