For A Christian

IF

If you can stand before false accusations

And lift your head in grace

and face the lies;

If you can join in other's celebrations

While your life falls in ruin

before your eyes;

If you can grieve with others who are

grieving,

Yet find in Christ a peace beyond

all griefs;

If you can love those who are unbelieving,

and yet stand firm and sure on your beliefs.

If you can lose all wealth and earthly treasure

And count it as the loss of so much dust;

If you can scorn success by mortal measure,

Striving for rewards that cannot rust;

If you can put your hand to Christian labor,

Be buried with Christ, your sins all put to end;

If everyday you can love your neighbor,

you will be a Christian then, my friend.

Ramona K. Cecil

I have this inscribed on a plaque that hangs on my bedroom wall. During a fiery trial a few years ago, I stumbled upon this. Many times I have read it with tears streaming down my face from a broken heart. Don't misunderstand, I don't replace the word or the comfort my dear Lord gives me with this. It's just a reminder that life happens and heartaches are certain on the path that leads us home. I hope you will be comforted too.

First Snow

Hubs wanted us to have a snowman, so I am proud to present "Little Man Snow."

We got our first dusting of snow today. It started just as Amanda left for work. I know that snow is not a big deal to most of you, but where I live, it can be a great menace. In fact, insurance companies cringe in fear. Since we don't get that much snow, we are not equipped for it. There is not enough equipment to keep the roads clear, thus causing many fender benders along the way.

Rain has taken over the snow post, so we don't have to worry about getting anything significant,much to Caleb's dismay. School is in!

Tea For Two

UPDATE......
I need to clarify that the first tea cup is "Ruby Lace" I failed to post this information previously.

Here are the two newest additions to my collection. They are both Royal Albert. The first one is from the "Old Country Roses" pattern. The second one is "Vintage Florals Grape" The first one is my favorite of the moment.





I have tried both of my tea purchases from the Biltmore and both were delicious. Orange Spice is my usual favorite. There is a wonderful pomegranate that I really like, but I haven't found it at a reasonable price. I could purchase it from one of our local tea rooms, but the price is not agreeable with me.







I have made a decision. I am re-painting my diningroom. I purchased the paint from Home Depot already and will soon start the process all over. It will soon be the same color as my livingroom. Have I mentioned lately how pleased I am with my "cliff rock?"






There was a lot of thought before I made my final decision on the diningroom. I had finally gotten brave and decided to paint it RED. I saw a diningroom painted red and liked it. I asked hubs what he thought about it and his reply was "whatever you want." I wanted him to tell me it was a great idea. This would have taken some of the load off me in the event it looked horrible. He wasn't going to add to my decision one way or another. I made up my mind and sped out to the home improvement wonderland, marched up to the paint counter and asked for one gallon of "cliff rock." I just couldnt' do it.

My List

Over at Sara's , she has created a list that has inspired me. So it is with much love and some amusement I decided to create one about the love of my natural life, as well.

1. He is christian and attends church with us. (regularly)
   
   He takes Caleb to school in the mornings, allowing me to sleep late and not have to get Nathan up.
   
   He has an admiration of shoes. (Something I just realized while typing as I thought about how may pair I remove each day from the livingroom.)
   
   He is a shower fanatic, taking several a day. (I'm serious, but thankful even though it increases the laundry load.)
   
   He works very hard, so his family (us) can live in a warm home.
   
   He is a very good father and enjoys spending time with his children.
   
   He doesn't mind eating whatever I cook or bring home (fast food) if I don't cook. (thanks honey)
   
   He will drink hot tea with me. (he prefers coffee)
   
   He enjoys working out in our yard together.
   
   He likes to take me on mini, romantic vacations.
   
   He calls me several times while he is at work, just to chat.
   
   He never goes anywhere without kissing me "bye"
   
   He never goes to sleep without kissing me "goodnight"
   
   He will always let me have a bite of whatever decadent dessert he ordered, but knew I wouldn't.(He does this just for that purpose)
   
   

There are many other things I could list, but I will stick to these for now. After reading over it for myself, I know that I have a great guy!

There's No Place Like Home

I typed this yesterday, but blogger was down. Actually, this is the second post. I lost the first one! Very frustrating, but thankfully all is well.


Dorothy wasn't clicking her heels and repeating "There's no place like home" for nothing. She knew what she was talking about. Don't get me wrong, I like to get away as much as possible, but it's everything else that goes with it that makes it a chore. I have to pack the pharmacy, nursery and everyone's wardrobe all for the sake of a two day journey. I mean, how could we not take all these things? We might surely need them.

Anyway, we finally got to visit here.We have wanted to go for quite sometime. We were blessed with complimentary tickets and took full advantage of the opportunity. The history of this place is very interesting. I was anticipating taking lots of pictures, but was not allowed, much to my dismay. Seems they have a "No Camera" policy. However, they were taking group photos inside and wanted to sell them to us. We would not be purchasing any, per my hubby's request. He said if we couldn't take pictures, he wasn't going to buy their's. He is funny like that. I may have been tempted to get them if my eyes weren't closed. Shhhh...don't tell my hubs.

I had contributed more money than I had planned already. While waiting for our "appointment" we were conveniently stationed outside of the various gift shops. I bought Caleb and Nathan lollipops, truffles for Amanda and hubs,and two tea bags for me. One is apricot and the other is cinnamon plum, neither of which I've had before. I decided to browse the bookstore and found a lovely bound copy of "Anne Of Green Gables" this also managed to make it's way into my possession. I thought it was reasonably priced, considering.

This is a picture of Amanda and Caleb huddling together in the cold. The wind was horrid. It was already below freezing and the wind chill made it absolutely miserable to be outside. Although it was a gorgeous, sunny day, I did not want to be outside, neither did they. Another reason I don't have more pictures with them.







This is Nathan with the lollipop and Caleb clowning!



I took this outside while in line.


These others are ones we stopped and took as we were leaving the grounds. No one wanted to pose because it was tooooo cold!





Hehehe, this one is of the ground in case you're wondering. Hubs was having a problem operating the camera!


This is my Nathan hiding in the closet.


Amanda and hubs took Monday off in order for us to be able to lounge around and not have to rush back Sunday night. I wanted to do a little shopping and thought this would give me the perfect opportunity. I just knew I would have the time I wanted to stroll around. After finishing the tour we bundled up and headed to town. My sweet hubs took me on a teacup hunt. I shouldn't say hunt. He actually told me to "hurry up and look" Now those of you that like to shop, this is not something you want to hear. I have been desiring a particular pattern that I have not been able to find locally. I didn't find it here either, but I did find one that I loved. Okay, I confess. I bought two. Ahhhhh, I feel better.

I hurried to the car with my treasures in hand. Hubs and I had discussed leaving early. As we headed back to the cabin where we were staying, it started to snow. This cinched the deal. We did not want to get snowed in and we packed in record time and headed home. My king size bed was await with fresh sheets. After sleeping on a full size bed with Nathan in the middle, I could hardly wait to get there.

We finally made it home and I thanked the Lord for keeping us safe. Now, I'm off to try a cup of apricot tea.

Away

I will be away for a couple of days. I was going to post where I was going, but since I splash my kid's faces all over my pages, I wouldn't want some internet troller meeting me there to try to kidnap one of my children. Paranoid, huh? Maybe.
Please keep us in prayer.

The Feeling

I think we may all have had it. The feeling that we shouldn't do something, but we do it anyway. This happened to me today. I had gone into the laundry room when Nathan came looking for me. He ran into the kitchen and straight into the corner of the kitchen cabinet. I rushed to scoop him up and cradle him in my arms. After calming him, I sat him on the countertop to inspect his injury. Thankfully, he only had a red mark on the side of his head. I opened to cabinet to find something to soothe him. This was mistake number one.

He had spied the forbidden. Hiding in the shadows was a can of hard "Christmas Candy" that should have been thrown out. It tastes yucky to everyone except Nathan. He is a hard candy,lollipop eating toddler, wanne be. I don't usually allow him to have this because of the choking hazard. Not to mention the sugar induced energy and tooth decay.

He began to point and whine for the candy. I had the *feeling* not to give it to him and hesitated momentarily, but he wasn't going to give up easily, and I knew it. I wanted to make him feel better, so I rationalized with *the feeling* with thoughts like "I'll keep my eyes on him" and "he's never had a problem before." This was mistake number two.

I gave him a small piece and took him off the counter. He sauntered happily into the livingroom, slurpping on his sugary treat. I turned around briefly to grab some clothes off a chair. When I turned back around I knew something was wrong. He was not making a sound and he had a look on his face that screamed fear to me. Immediately I ran to him and gave him the "mama wallop." I pounded him at least three times on his back causing the life threatening object to dislodge. He was fine. I wasn't. I was frantic and had to sit a few moments to stop shaking.

There are many children that have been in the same situation that Nathan encountered today. Not all have ended with the same results. I shudder to think of the little ones that never took another breath. I give all praise to my loving God for not allowing MY indiscretion to bring about devastating results. He has given us the Holy Spirit to guide us if we will be obedient. He doesn't want us to "shake it off" or minimize it by liking it to just human nature of "fear."

Lord, I pray to always be sensitive to your Spirit and to obey.

Bank Account

I received the following in an email and liked the message so much, that I wanted to share.

A 92-year-old, well-poised and proud man, who is fully dressed each morning by eight o'clock, with his hair fashionably coifed and shave perfectly applied, even though he is legally blind, moved to a nursing home today. His wife of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary. After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, he smiled sweetly when told his room was ready.

As he maneuvered his walker to the elevator, I provided a visual description of his tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been hung on his window.

"I love it," he stated with the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just been presented with a new puppy.

"Mr. Jones, you haven't seen the room; just wait."

"That doesn't have anything to do with it," he replied..

"Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged....it's how I arrange my mind. I already decided to love it. "It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up. I have a choice; I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do.

Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open I'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories I've stored away. Just for this time in my life.

Old age is like a bank account. You withdraw from what you've put in..

I am using my Christmas pictures as my "before" since I didn't take any, but they are the same areas.
And of course, this is the after........

This is the corner "before"

And although I have rearranged a few things, this is the "after"

I am very pleased with my livingroom colors thus far. There are a few things I need to work out, like the trim, curtains, rods, and so forth, but I hope to get these taken care of as well. I know this sounds crazy, but I am thinking about repainting my diningroom! I like "cliffrock" so much better than the "pumpkin butter". Ya'll talk to me!

Two Pictures

I am completely suprised! I am able to post pictures again!! This pic is one that I took a few days ago. I put the "Brownstone" curtain up again. The picture of the Magnolia that is on the stand, has been moved. I am not finished. I don't think the picture captures the "true" color.
This is a closeup of my light fixture, like you couldn't figure that out, right?

I have some more news. I have moved over to the livingroom! I decided while I had all the trays, rollers and brushes out, I may as well continue. It is looking like a different place around here! I dislike having to move everything around, but that is a small price to pay considering the return. And I look at it as a way to exercise. I know I have burned up some calories on this project.

Anita, I am so excited you are taking the plunge. Can't wait to see your results. Hopefully, I will post some more pictures later. Even though I have been busy, I am trying to keep up with everyone.

Blogger Blues

I have tried to post a pic for over three hours! I have contacted blogger with the error code I received and now I wait. I might be experiencing difficulties because my blog is on the old blogspot, even though it has supposed to have been "moved" a while back, to the "new" beta. Hah!

It's probably just as well. I am not happy with the pics. They're not the finished product, just peeps, but I wanted to show proof of something. Especially after all my hard work. I have arranged and re-arranged furniture until I am just tired of it. I have faced the reality that I have too much stuff! Did I just say that? Here's another one for you, I don't want to get rid of any of it! Help me! At least something positive has happened during all this. One, I have learned that HGTV is an hour program, but all the remodeling takes place over several days of filming. Do they have a disclaimer concerning this? Two, I have gotten rid of dust as old as my daughter!

Oh, and did I mention that I have changed the curtains again? I am still undecided about this. In the pic I tried to post, the curtain is a lovely "brownstone" but, I can't seem to get "red" out of my mind. I think I want a red curtain. I have a red/burgandy one up there now, but that is apt to change. Where are those guys from HGTV when you need them?

Still Painting

Well, painting resumed again today. I am not finished yet. Once the wall colors started changing, so did my views on what type of light fixture I needed. And of course, new curtains. This meant a trip to Lowes and Wal-Mart. I had picked up a booklet from the lighting area a few weeks ago, but I never thought I would actually purchase one of the featured items. I am partial to the ones with shades that face down instead of up. Curtains were my next stop. I thought Wal-Mart would be the least expensive place to find what I had in mind. I am still debating that one. As a matter of fact, I am peeved a little about this. Have you noticed how manufacturers are taking advantage of us? I started noticing a few years ago how what normally was included with your purchase, is now additional. An example of this is when we purchased our new, electric stove. The cord was a separate purchase! I could not believe this. Printers. Printers use to come with the ink cartridges, now, they are separate also! What is this about?

Okay, back to the curtains. Once upon a time, two panels were included in the package. I found out one panel per package is the norm now, without a reduction in price! Don't you know, the ones I wanted wanted just happened to be the most expensive. I stood in the aisle calculating what I could live without this week and finally decided to make the purchase. The manufacturer had won again! Arrgghhh!

I didn't know when I started this, that I would be making so many changes. I only wanted to paint. I am exhausted! I have been working almost non-stop on this as well as my other "chores." You know, the cleaning, cooking, laundry, and all the other wonderful tasks that eagerly await my attention. It seems as if there is a never ending list. I have popped in and out to check on my fellow bloggers. I haven't gotten around to commenting on most of them, but I hope to soon.

Pass Or Fail

I thought I would share this with those of you that haven't already gotten addicted. It's suppose to be a test to pass the third grade. I found it to be fun and a tad bit emabarrassing.


http://www.pibmug.com/files/map_test.swf


Let me know how many of you pass. *smile*

Pumpkin Butter

Whew! I have had such a long day! I decided to paint my diningroom. I am going to spare you the "before" pics, only because I forgot to take them. *grin* Aren't you glad?

Clearly, I wasn't thinking "clearly" when I made this decision. I stopped by the Home Depot Friday night and picked up the paint. Isn't it amazing how you can have the exact color you want in your mind, but when you get the wall of color, all of them make the one you want fuzzy? I stood there at all the samples and got aggravated. How can there be so many shades of paint? Why are they doing this to me? I know I am burning more brain cells than necessary by having to choose a color. Finally, I narrow it down to two different colors. I mean they are different. One is a Light Cocoa the other is called pumpkin butter. Pumpkin Butter? The Pumpkin Butter was not in the running before I ventured out to make a purchase. I did find out that it is one of the best sellers, according to the young man at the counter. I guess I do have good taste. *blushing* I wanted to start painting as soon as I got home, but I knew I should wait until morning.


Morning came and so did a lot of reasons not to get started painting. I had so much to do, along with "fighting off" the "lazys." It was such a beautiful day, I took Nathan outside to play. That little booger ran away from me and into the neighbor's yard. He thought it was hilarious. Soon after, I tried to take him inside. Needless to say, he pitched a fit!

The paint in the can was still and silent waiting to be stirred. I was afraid to lift the lid and spread such a bold color on my walls. I had put it off long enough. I plunged the roller in the pool of liquid and started rolling. Upon the first stroke, I was not certain this was a color I could eat with. After a few more, there was no turning back. After all, I paid $21 and something for this can of paint and it was going to be used for something! After completing one section I decided I like it.....for now.

I am far from finished, but it's a start. I hope to be engulfed in color by Monday evening. I am not looking forward to the trim work, but it comes with the territory. Pictures may come soon, depending on my skills!

Formative Years

I read the ages we learn the most are between 4 and 7, I think. These are called the formative years. With this in mind, I tried to recall my earliest memories of church. My mom, who was a single mother of three, made sure we attended regularly.

I can remember my sunday school teacher. Her name was Miss Daisey. Every Sunday she would lead her little troop of learners through the doors in the back, through a cold hallway and into the classroom. I don't know why I remember the hall as being cold, but the small room was warm. The little gas heater would hiss as it warmed our little bodies.

I can still smell the crayons and see the lesson leaflets. The pictures on those had so much color. The windows appeared to be saphire blue with cut glass. I just know that if I ran my fingers over them, they would feel like ice cubes. Wood floors. The floors were wood, but I think there was a small red carpet in the center of the room.

My formative years. Hmmm. I don't remember too much about the lessons, other than coloring the leaflet, but I do remember JESUS! There is an image of Him in my mind each time I remember that little classroom. I can't say that I have this image because of a hung portrait of him or if I "saw" him. I prefer the latter.


The bell would ring to signal time over and we would line up to march out, literally. Miss Daisey, on the other hand, would take her seat at the piano and play the appropriate "marching" music. We had a "penny march." This is where all the children would bring their pennies to the front of the church and drop them into a basket. This was so exciting to me! We were allowed to be part of the service with our offerings.

Now this is where my age is really telling on me, we returned to wooden pews! Yes, you read that right. Wooden pews. This is where I would be for the remainder of the service. I had fallen asleep many times on those pews. Not because of the preaching, remember I'm from the south. It was loud and hot and full of truth. It was not watered down or sugared up. It was the un-editied gospel, if you will. The Spirit of God dictated how long the service lasted, not the bulletin. And of course, there was LOVE. It permeated the atmoshphere as soon as you entered the doors. Love. Can't have "church" without it!

Phone Talk

Yesterday evening in our house:

Phone rings:

Caleb: Oh hey grandma. (my MIL)

Silence.......... (this is where grandma is talking, only we can't hear her)

Caleb: Except on the weekends.

Silence......

Caleb: He's asleep.

Silence.....

Caleb: She just got off her laptop.

Silence

Caleb: Her laptop.

Silence

Caleb: She just got off her laptop. ( A little louder) Errrr..... you want to speak to her?

Grandma has no idea what a laptop is!
If I were a liar, and thank God I'm not, this is where I would have said to him "Tell her it's new exercise equipment" this would have made her very happy!

Mama Proud

Alright, just a quick moment of "mama proud" time that I wanted to share.

Caleb came in from school and excitedly asked me "Mom, how much is tithes on $20?" "2$" I replied, "why?"
"Because my teacher said she was gonna give $20 to the student with the most improvement on benchmarks." This is a testing program at his school. And you thought I looked large in my profile picture, you should have seen me at that moment!

Mystery

Something has happened in the past few days that I can't explain. Nathan has become afraid of normal sounds in the house. I noticed a few months ago how he ran into my arms during a thunderstorm, but that seemed to be the only time He had been frightened. Whenever the washer starts up, he stops, looks both ways, and runs. The same response when the furnace cycles on or the vaccum cleaner.

I had his hearing tested when he was around 5 months old. I did this because he slept through everything! I know, I know. I should have accepted it as a blessing and went on with it, but neither of my other two slept through ringing phones, doorbells, and vaccuum cleaners like this so, I wanted to make sure there were no hearing problems. And of course, with all the ear infections, he was tested again. The tests concluded his hearing was fine and I was just a worry wart. Thus eradicating the theory of "hearing for the first time."

This is so strange. Now that I have began to think about it, I may have figured it out!
One of Caleb's Christmas presents was a robot. Nathan is not fond of him at all, in fact, if robot man ever comes up missing a head or missing, period, I don't think we'll be calling in Scotland yard.

Bible Reading

Lisa has been doing so well on her bible reading, but I am behind. I thought if I started being accountable, it would help. I read 3 chapters in John last night and I read the book of Jonah again, thanks to Sara. I want to get the desire I once had to read God's word. On the days I had to wait in line to pick my son up from school, I use to sit there and read it. I don't pick him up anymore so that time is lost. I use to take it with me to dr. visits and various other places that kept me waiting, but I slowly got out of that habit too. I am really sad about this. God's word is more important than the newspaper, but I have caught myself reading it over anything else.

I have read through the New Testament several times, but I have never quite finished the Old. Not in order, anyway. But I have always loved the Old Testament writings. To see God in the scriptures and the intensity of His presence is indescribable.

Lisa stated that "It's supposed to take 21 days to make a habit" this doesn't seem too much to ask. There is all types of habits that we need to break, but bible reading isn't one of them.

I haven't forgotten to post about Christmas with my sister and brother-in-law. It has just been postponed until now. One of the reasons I wanted to post about them is he will soon be returning to Iraq and I wanted to make sure I had a few more people praying for his safe return. He was allowed to come home for a couple of weeks on leave. My sister told me that when he goes back, it will be to a more dangerous area than before, thus causing her stress.

They are now gone to Brooklyn, New York to visit his parents. I have met them and love his mother. She is such a sweet and wonderful mother-in-law to my sister. I met her for the first time after she came to visit them a couple of years ago. I had the pleasure of driving her to the airport the day she was scheduled to leave. The others had gone back to work and I was the only one available to take her the hour and half journey. (Yes, we have an airport that is closer, but she got a better rate further away. LOL)

Getting back to my BIL, he is one of the greatest guys you could ever meet. He takes care of his family and his country. I am proud of him. He believes in getting the job done. He has a lot more strength than most and I admire him for the way he carries himself. I am thankful he married my sister. She loves him so much.

Anyway, I wanted to post a picture of my BIL and Sis. and ask for prayer for the both of them. These are two beautiful people that I love very much! I know they would appreciate it.
I don't know if he will ever see this, but I hope he knows how much I care.

I haven't been able to do much of anything this weekend blogwise. I decided to make some changes (what 'cha think?) and because blogger wouldn't let me, it became more of a challenge. I am stubborn like that sometimes. I finally downloaded firefox and that didn't seem to help until the very end.

I think I have gotten around some of the glitches I have been having. Although I am not sure if it is my pc or blogger. Hmmm. I am still spam to wordpress pages. :( and that hurts. I don't know what to do about that.

I spent more time on the pc not getting anything done than being productive in another area. That means I will have to make it up tomorrow. It will be after all housework, napping, and feeding is finished before I can get online. I have to discipline myself as not to let it get the best of me. Well I am off to bed at last.

What If

Last night, after I posted this I went to bed, but I couldn't go to sleep. I kept thinking about the closed door theory. I thought what if we, I, pursued God in the same manner? What if at the slightest movement or distance, I clung a little tighter or followed Him a little closer so that He would be "dragging" me behind Him?

What if everytime I felt like there was a "closed door" that I would press whatever I could into ever crack and crevice trying to be near Him? What if I would offer up to Him all that I had? What if I would sit by the door waiting until it opened?

I know how it warms my heart to know that my children love and want to be near me. What if God feels the same way? I don't have to ask this because I already know the answer. He does! I haven't made any New Year's resolutions and usually don't, but I do want to "cling a little closer" to Him this year.

Funyuns Under The Door

I had a dinner date earlier tonight (thursday) with one of my friends. I haven't been out for a while, so I was looking forward to it. I went to take a shower and this sparked Nathan's interest. I am certain he knew I was going to close a door behind me because he started up the behaviour! He followed me about until he couldn't get in the bathroom. I left his dad in charge, lotta' good that did! Nathan was floundering all around the livingroom crying. He knows this usually gains him complete attention. It didn't work this time. I continued on to the shower. With the door closed. What is it about a closed door between you and you kids that drives them crazy?!!

I have noticed this with all three of my dear ones. Each of them can be occupied with some activity or tv show, but let me slip away to the bedroom or bath and close the door. It's as if an alarm only audible to children has suddenly been tripped. I am immediately sought after. Do they have some type of secret pact that forbids mom to be alone? I am sure if you have toddlers, you know what I am talking about. Bubble bath? Who can enjoy a bubble bath with fingers and toes sticking underneath the door? How about all the whimpering and whining trying to get in? Now that I think about it, my hubs is also guilty of this! Love you babe!

Anyway, I heard Nathan quiet down and I finished my shower. Later, as I was brushing my teeth, I heard some little "scratchie" noise. I am thinking "what can that be?" I am hoping it isn't a mouse. I resumed my teeth brushing and heard it again. I looked down at the bottom of the door and there was a funyun! Or rather half of a maimed funyun. Nathan had taken a piece of his "bribe"and was sliding it under the door! This is a first for me, but it worked. I opened the door. My children, I love 'em!

Caleb

I know I don't post much about my middle child, Caleb, but he is what this post is about. Caleb is my faith filled son. He always has been. I remember while I was pregnant with him that I "knew" there was something different about him. I had problems during the pregnancy and had fears that I would not carry him to term. Thank God for His healing grace. Caleb was not "planned" by his father and I, but he was definitely planned by God. During one of my times of worry, I went to visit a lady that I have great confidence in. She is a mighty woman of God and a great missionary in Egypt. She happened to be at the home of one of ladies from my church at the time. I italicized "happened" because I don't believe things just happen. I am a true believer in the divine appointment of God.

This wonderful lady wanted to pray with me and for me. I was probably about seven or eight months pregnant at the time. She began to prophesy to me about my unborn child. I don't know how many believe in the gifts of the spirit, but I am a believer. One of the things she spoke was of the joy that this child would bring me. I smile as I type this. He has brought me so much joy. He is one to always remind that "all we have to do is pray." There are so many things I could share here, but I don't want to get off topic.

Caleb is compassionate. He wants us to help everyone. He is loving. He will still come to me and give me kiss and hug, just because he loves me. He still holds my hand. That is something I hope he never outgrows. Caleb is a comedienne. He is good at hamming it up! He has such a quick wit. Hmmmm.... I wonder where he got that from? He is a wonderful, big brother. He has taught Nathan so much. He likes school, makes the honor roll in fact. I think he is appropriately named from the bible. He is ready to conquer. He has conquered. I am proud that he is my son. So, Caleb, if you are reading this, you know that your mom loves you very much!

Do You Suppose......

He is feeling better?!!

Okay Ladies.........

I need some advice. I have been having some login issues and pic posting problems for awhile now. Well, after some troubleshooting, I have come to the conclusion that I may need to switch to a new browser. Here is where I need advice. I have used Internet Explorer for all the systems I have ever owned. I now realize that there are options, mozilla/firefox, etc.,(ahem) I told you I was techno savvy. I am just curious as to which browsers you guys are using.

I am thinking that IE may be the reason I am spam over at Sara's. I think it may also be responsible for not allowing me to post pics. Now, you know this is serious, since I got my new camera and all, right? Alrighty, just let me know about your browsers, okay?

Unseen Arms

I was awakened in the middle of the night by the all too familiar feeling of a two year old's wiggling body. Nathan had stumbled into my room and into my bed. I knew something was wrong. He would fall off to sleep and immediately awake crying out loud. He didn't have a temperature. I had noticed he had a small cough the day before, but it didn't seem like anything to worry about. By the time morning had arrived, so had his temperature and my determination to get him to the doctor.

After calling the office, I loaded him up and off we went. I was informed that they would be closing early for New Year's Eve, so we didn't have time to waste. I dread these office visits. You may remember the frequency of ear infections that plague Nathan and his traumatic experience last year with the series of anitbiotic injections. He hasn't forgotten the pain associated with these visits.

He seemed to be fine until we were called into the examining room. He did not want to stay still. He was so glad to see the nurse leave. It wasn't long before the doctor came in to see him. He would not let him touch him. He had to be held down. He was screaming and flailing and had to be held. This is traumatizing to me. Is he thinking "why is my mama doing this to me?" or "why is she allowing this to happen?"
I know he doesn't realize that in the end it is for his benefit. How could he? He is too young to understand. I just hope his remembrance of these events will fade and he will trust me to know what is best for him.

Sinus infection and red ears. That was the diagnosis. We were off to get the prescriptions filled before the pharmacy closed. One antibiotic and a decongestant. The insurance wouldn't pay for the decongestant, so we had to do out-of-pocket. I hope it works. Either way, please say a little prayer for Nathan.

As I was typing this, I thought about how we "scream and flail" through some of life's painful experiences. We don't understand and may question why He is allowing this to happen. All the while, our precious Lord is holding us in His loving arms. I am so thankful for His grace.

Sara Isn't The Only One

I think it is just wordpress that thinks I am spam. I had gone over to comment on another blog and couldn't. I had the same problem there as I was having over at
Sara's. I can't figure it out. I changed my email address, name, and page to see if that would eliminate the problem, but no. Sara, I am sorry. I guess you will have to fish my comments out of the spam filter, cause you know I have to say something. *smile* I love your blog!

It has been another day filled with sunshine, but I haven't accomplished much. I had planned to clean the car. Oh well, rain is predicted the weekend so I guess I would be defeating the purpose. I thought about taking down the tree, (No I haven't taken down my tree, yet) I wanted to keep it up until we had "Christmas" with my sister and my BIL. He is home from Iraq for two weeks. He has a lot of plans. Taking a trip to NY is one of them. I will post more about them later and with pictures, of course!

Just A Funny

While browsing through some of my pictures that I took with my new camera, (can't tell I like it, huh?) I found this:





This is my neice, daughter, and mother-in-law. She, mil, was not clowning! I kid you not! The camera actually caught her in "transition." Hmmm.... I don't know, maybe it was just funny to me. Oh, and the juice cup belongs to Nathan. Nothing stronger than apple juice. I can affirm this!

Stewardship

While driving down the highway today, I was thinking about the weather. It is sooo nice and sunny here and in the high 60's. Very enjoyable, except that it is December! I fully intended to blog about it when I got home, but Anita beat me to it! She brought up some interesting points. It gave me something to think about. Am I a good steward? Most people associate stewardship with money only. It is more than that. We are to be good stewards over children, time, homes, and many other things that God has entrusted us with. Thanks Anita, for reminding me.

When I started to blog, I thought of it as not ammounting to much. Just something that I would do as a "creative" outlet. Something that no one else would ever read. Boy, was I wrong! I have met a wonderful "family" that I look forward to "visiting" everyday. I am convicted, inspired, and made to smile. You are my sisters in Christ and I am thankful for you.

A Christmas Story

It started out as a routine trip to the atm a couple of days before Christmas. The skies were overcast and the rain stayed steady just enough to keep the wipers on. The boy in the back was about 12 years old and was constantly chattering about the upcoming celebration to his parents. His excitement of the pending Christmas holidays was hard to contain.

Upon pulling into the parking-lot with the atm, (it isn't a drive-up) a young man was noticed. He was standing under the shelter of the atm pushing buttons. As the family sat in the car waiting their turn, the young man pulled out his wallet and turned his back to block their view of his transaction. He made all the motions of placing cash in his wallet and then he pulled out "his" umbrella. An umbrella that appeared to have been discarded by a previous owner and started walking away. He was not driving an automobile, in fact, he was not driving anything at all. He was walking. Men are usually walking in this part of town, and are looking for hand-outs, but there was something different about this one. He was not dressed shabbily, nor did he look unshaven. Just the opposite. He was dressed in a shirt that actually matched his slacks and he looked groomed. Not that he was gotten close enough to discern if he had bathed, but he looked as if he would have, if given the opportunity.

The father in the suv got out and walked up to the atm to retrieve his cash for the days journey leaving his son to chatter on with the mother. The mother listened with one ear, as she was more concerned with the previous customer. There was something about this young man that couldn't be shaken. She watched him make his way down the highway toward the fast-food restaurants at the intersection. "Lord, she thought, are you trying to tell me something about this young man? What is it?"

The father soon returns and a conversation begins. As they drive out of the parking lot, the mother knows she has to do something, but what? She has never made it a habit to give cash to the "beggars" but she has been known to buy them something to eat if they ask. Herein the other dilema, he hasn't asked for anything. How was she going to convince the father that she "has" to do something for this stranger? Almost whispering, she began " I feel like we need to do something for that man." She didn't have to explain which man, the father already knew. They had both watched, as he pretended to place withdrawn cash in his wallet, but neither one had said a word about until now. Mother knew that "THE FATHER" had been working on the father, as well as herself. They were in agreement. They drove until they spotted him again as he had passed all the restaurants. They caught up with him and the father rolled the window down when he got alongside him. The father extended out his hand with the cash and the suprised young man just looked at first and then asked "What is this for?" The father asked in reply "Don't you need some food?" "I sure do" he said, "I sure do" and then gratefully took the money. He didn't grab or snatch it out of his hand. His actions were gentle. The father left him with "God Bless You" as he drove away.

No words could be spoken from the mother. Tears were streaming down her face and her heart was broken. Broken for this young man who was so grateful for something she had taken for granted. Broken, wondering if he would have just one gift to open on Christmas morning. Broken because he had reminded her that our best gift is love. Love that The Father has bestowed upon us. Silently, the tears poured from her eyes. Silently, the son sat in the back. His father ask if he knew why his mother was crying. Yes, he knew, we all knew.


1 John 3:1
Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.

Sara.....

I guess I am spam again. :(
I tried to comment, but can't.

Here's My Three!

Not one of my best photos, but they are together. This was on the drive to grandma's. I hope to share more later. Oh, By the way, my Christmas gift was a camera! The Kodak Easy Share with printer dock. I am sooo excited. Notice Nathan's hand in his hair? This is his sleepy routine.

Christmas @ Grandma's

What About Jesus?

This is the thought that has constantly been returning through the memory channels of my mind. It has been brought about from the unpacking of my small nativity this year. I started unwrapping each figure to display it and got to the last one and couldn't find baby Jesus. I picked up the box and looked in it and shook it, but no Jesus. What on earth could have happened to him?

I decided to go ahead and place the nativity on top of the curio without Jesus. Later, I begin to think about all the things associated with Christmas. The shopping, decorating, parties, baking, wrapping, I could go on and on here. And sad to say, most of these are done without Jesus! I can, and have testified to the fact of how easy it is to get so caught up in celebrating, that we *forget* the WHY.

I can easily replace the baby Jesus in a nativity, but I can never replace Jesus in my heart! HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!

YAY!!

I honestly didn't meant for the gift to turn out to be a guessing game. Neat, that was just an addedbonus! Since you guys started it........



I finally got picture to load!!

Here We Go Again

I am completely aggravated!!! I have tried, without success, to post a picture and blogger continues to tell me to sign in. (Like I haven't the previous 20 times!) Any suggestions? Someone help!!!

Sara

AAAAARRRGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!! I can't comment on your blog!!!! So, Here is my comment to you lovely Sara!

OH SARA! What a precious child! He is adorable! AND YOU! Just look at you! All cute and pregnant! Happy Birthday, Jack!

Early Christmas Present

If all goes well, I should have my Christmas present early. :) I will let you guys know for sure later! In fact, there won't be any doubt!

My Christmas Tour

I really didn't think I would try this, but here it is! Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home!I never dreamed that I would participate in this considering I haven't even finished decorating for Christmas. I enjoy BooMama's Blog so much, I couldn't help myself. I am sharing just a few of my decorations and I am sad to say that I have none of the outside. I barely managed to get a few bows and greenery up before my small dinner party tonight. I am starting off with my centerpiece that I have on an "Old" cabinet that I love. Next is a pic of my table with live greenery. I took this one as an afterthought. If you look closely, you can see the remnants of the party.

This is the fireplace with the logs on. We had them on for the benefit of our gathering. (I also had the a/c on, as it was almost 70 today!)

This is my nativity on the mantel. I'm sorry about the glare.

This again, is the mantel and my nativity from a different angle.

This is a pic of one of my curios that has a small nativity that you cannot see.

This turned out blurry, but it is my dining curio. If you look close, you can see my teapots.

Last, but not least, is another pic of my tree.

I know it hasn't been much, but it is my small contribution to the tour. Be Sure to Check out BooMama for some great Christmas homes!

Merry Christmas

I wanted to share a Christmas Card with all my friends. It's beautiful, just click on link.

http://ecard.ashland.edu/2004admission/index.html

Ministry

Sometimes you see a person and can't seem to forget them. I have had the image of such come across my mind several times since Tuesday night. Our church has a Rest-Home Ministry that meets once a month at the facility a couple miles from the church. As with any program, we have the "faithful few" that always participate and then we have the ones that want to, but can't always find the time to fit it in. Ahem....I being one of the latter and ashamed of it. The decision had been made to try to give all the residents Christmas gifts that consisted of personal care items. Unbeknowst to many, these particular residents must furnish their own. Shampoo, soap, lotion, kleenex, powder, toothpaste, are the ones we decided to supply.

With it being the Christmas season and wanting to share the love of Christ, I decided to put aside all the other "little" things that I usually let hinder me from going. With the gifts packed and loaded, we were on our way. Beautiful Christmas decorations greeted us upon entering the doors. We made our way into the Day or Rec room to set up the musical equipment to begin our service. Two or three residents had already gathered and patiently waited.

The service opened with prayer. We had our Christmas songs typed out and ready to sing. A few more residents begin to drift in upon hearing the singing. Oh how they love to hear singing! After a couple of songs, we took a break from singing for the pastor to bring the word. We resumed singing and the many tables began to fill up quickly. Several of them sang along, clapping their hands as best as they could. Others just sat there with no emotion. I feel sadness for these and can't help but wonder what they have endured through the years. I wonder how many visits they get from family. From anyone.

One lady in the group stood out. She must have been at least seventy years of age and proud of it. Her white hair was clean and styled. Her makeup had been applied with much care and age appropriate, I might add. She was beautiful. Where others sat in gowns, robes, or whatever else they were comfortable in, she was dressed in a thoughtfully chosen outfit. In my opinion, she was not allowing circumstances to control her actions. She was not conforming to the image of "rest-home resident." I came not expecting to recieve anything, but left with so much more than I could have imagined. This beautiful lady blessed me, and I am humbled

Recipe

This is actually a candy recipe that is VERY easy!

12 ounces of butterscotch morsels (you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate as well)
1 cup of cocktail peanuts
1 cup of La Choy noodles

Melt morsels in microwave safe container. Add nuts and noodles. Stir until well coated. Make pieces whatever size you want. Usually about the same size as chocolate fudge. Place on wax paper to cool.

See, I told you it is easy. Now for MY cookies. This one is easy too!

I use the large roll of Pillsbury sugar cookies. I roll them out and use cookies cutters for my Christmas shapes, sprinkle with sugar BEFORE I bake, and voila! I like the easy, but after seeing some of the other recipes, I may have to break down and bake some of these. They sound too yummy not to!

This And That

OK, being the techno savvy person that I am, *smiling* I finally figured it out. I *had* to switch over to the Beta version of blogger. It seems that I was using the original and since it was working for me, I saw no need to switch. I think my mistake was when I decided to click on the link adveritsing the Beta version. After taking the tour I was given the option of clicking on the NO THANKS link. Well, obviously they didn't mean it. I found myself unable to comment on any post after the tour. Sara, I am so glad you can comment now. I have missed you too! I will be back (hopefully) with a recipe. I think I am going to tinker around and see what "new" options I have with Beta. If any of you have discovered some great little options, please let me know.

What's Up?

I don't know what is going on, but I have tried to comment on blogs tonight and can't. Maybe it is just blogger. Anyway, Beth, I pray the children will be better soon. Lisa, praying for Molly, and please keep us updated. Anita, cookie recipe idea sounds great. Denise, I hope you are feeling better. Allison, your little pic is so cute! I don't really have time to blog, but you know how it is. Addictive. I have so many other things that I need to do. Oh, Beth is right about us needing to support our fellow blogger Shannon(Rocks In My Dryer). She was behind at the last count. We can vote once a day. I'm off to get something done!

My Tree

Just thought I would share a pic of my tree. I am trying to get a few other things decorated. I am planning to have a few friends over this weekend for a small Christmas gathering. It's amazing all the dust and other things I see that need to be cleaned now. Things I had not noticed before. Guess I have been too busy being "Mom"

I couldn't resist!

I was reading some scripture tonight and noticed something that made me smile. The word tells us that there is nothing new under the sun. I do believe that, but the Lord gives us proof all the time. Just so you know, this is for fun, but pay attention to the punctuation in this verse:
Matthew 6:32 KJV
32(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

Did you see the :)? Iknow, I know, but I had to do it. *smile*

Wise Men

My pastor made such an impact with this statement, "The wisemen were not wise because of experience, they were wise because they were searching for Jesus!" I had not thought about it in that way before. He was also speaking of us, a people getting "so caught up" in Christmas without "worshipping" Jesus. It's true. It's not something intended, but I have been guilty of *preparing* for Christmas. Lord forgive me. He also stated that when the wisemen found Him, they fell down and worshipped Him. A part of that woship was also giving as the one when He gave ALL his gold, one, frankencinse, and one myrh. The point being, giving All that we have.

This was probably only for me this day and I receive it. I am grateful for a heavenly father that will gently let us know that we are losing focus and to *look upon Him* He is the one I want to please. Yes, He's the One.

Lights!

Yay for me! I finally got the lights on the tree tonight! It took me awhile. It wasn't an easy task as I had Nathan sifting through the ornament boxes and pulling out beads, hooks, and the likes. Having to stop and re-direct his attention put me behind, but wore him out sooner than I expected. It wasn't long before he had that sleepy time look on his face and a wisp of his hair in his fingers. This is his usual bedtime ritual and one that I am happy to see. He was out in no time, giving me a little peace before having to clean up all the strewn boxes. I think that is on reason I dread pulling everything out. I know it will be up to me to get it all back in one place and tidy up. Whew! Like I don't have enough to do! Ahhh, but how "homey" it is and quiet right now without my little man running through here. I tried to teach him that once the ornaments went on the tree, we do not take them off to play with them. I'll let you know later if it was a lesson learned.


As I was fixing my "new" hair today, I thought of a wonderful weightloss idea. I was thinking if I would take a photo of myself in that tight, plastic cap, and post it on the fridge and in my wallet, it might detour some of my UNnecessary "chewing of the chocolate" What 'cha think?

How Many Days???

Since I can't post a picture of my tree, (I'm sorry, it is in a box somewhere) I decided to post a candle. It is festive looking I think.




I don't think I have ever been this late putting up my tree. We are now out of the twenty-something days, to the teens. I am behind schedule and can't seem to catch up. Why is it when one plan seems to fall apart, it lays the foundation for the next one to come unwrangled? Now that I think about it, my week pretty much started off in that manner. I can remember thinking to myself Sunday afternoon, " I should have stayed home." I have learned to repeat this phrase to no one except myself,(and under my breath, only then) unless I want to start a battle of the bands with my DH. In the essence of the season, I prefer "peace on earth" and definitely "goodwill toward men."

I have a hair appointment today and can't sleep tonight. I want something different. I am at that age that long hair is too "young" for me and short hair is too "old" for me. Besides the fact that neither perform the slimming ability that I desire! If only I could exit from the establishment with a complete body makeover! I mean, c'mon, we're been sending people to the moon for years now and we're no closer to have a fat reducing device developed? It's just depressing to go in and have that plastic cap strapped on my head and realize the full reality of my "full" facial features. Very unattractive without hair. I will continue the cycle of looking at the "Hair" mags and decide on one, only to "chicken out" at the last minute. Yeah, just give me my old dirty blonde. I actually prefer it over the gray.

It's finally cool enough for me to enjoy my tea! In case ya'll didn't know, I love hot tea. It is one of my most favorite things. Of course weather has no bearing on if I drink it or not. Orange spice is definitely a favorite choice. I found a new brand at Cracker Barrel. It was packaged in a tin. I usually buy the ones in boxes, but saw this and wanted to try. I'm glad I did. It's not too strong. I usually indulge my addition after the family is in bed for the night. It helps me to relax and in some way it is a comfort to me. I don't have many friends that share my love for hot tea. Most like plain old iced tea. Don't get me wrong, I am as southern as they are. I like ice tea also, and drink it as well, but there's something about a pot of tea and delicate tea cup that brings out the southern belle in me. Since I also collect tea pots, I can use different ones depending on what type of mood I'm in.

I wanted to get my tree up tonight, but that has been a failure. I did, however, get my festive candle arrangement atop my table. I went to one of my fave arts and crafts place and picked out the little do dads that I needed and voila! My Christmas centerpiece is born! I lit the candle and stood by and watched Nathan. He was amazed and wanted to blow out the candle after thirty minutes. I can handle that better as opposed to him trying to pull it off the table. I think this is one of the reasons I haven't been more diligent in getting the tree up. I know it is going to be a battle with Nathan and the ornaments. Ahh the joys of motherhood. I love my little man. He sure keeps me busy.

Soul Searching

I wanted to come on tonight and post about my great weekend, but I have other things going on inside my heart and mind. I am being confronted with feelings that I thought were long gone. Feelings of anger and unforgiveness. I was hurt so deeply by someone, (believer) that I didn't know if I would ever get over it, but through much prayer, (for them as well as myself,) I thought I had lain it to rest. Not because they had ask for my forgiveness, they didn't, but I know that as a christian, I have to forgive anyway, right? Believe me, it was a struggle, but I want to cleave to what I know is right and not reward evil for evil.

Here I am tonight twelve years later, yes, twelve years and I have questions. Questions that have been brought to the surface because I had a face to face encounter with her tonight. I guess you could tell by the twelve year comment that I haven't seen or talked to her in that period of time. I had gone to a Christmas Cantata at another church to support one of my friends. She had a solo and after all she has endured in the past year or so, I wanted to be there for her. The church was almost full to capacity, but even with all the hundreds of faces in the crowd, I saw her!


I continued to enjoy the cantata without letting that bother me. I had actually "psyched" myself up to be cordial and natural as possible in the event our paths crossed at the finale. Well, so much for the psych. Our paths did cross. I thought I was doing great. I made it a point to speak to her as casually as I could and tried to keep walking in the passing. It didn't work. She had to turn around and come back. The fact that I even spoke to her may have been the motivation for that action. I had been smiling up to the point that she tried to hug me. I didn't push her away, neither did I show any outward emotion. It was all inside, not anger, but I just didn't want a hug from her. And that bothers me. If I truly have forgiven her, why did I not welcome her embrace? I was so sure the infraction was in the past. Tonight has stirred up many ponderings.

I Will Be Away.....

Just wanted to let everyone know it will take awhile to finish. I will be busy tonight with a Christmas party. And tomorrow, I am supposed to be out of town. As Anita noted, this is one of those things that does take time to post. I did want to share because of the testimony of Christ. He is amazing! Peace and Love to All.

Part lll

I just want to go back a few minutes to the trip on the way over to the house. DD and beau were riding in separate vehicle and I had called her cell phone for something. I could hear chiming in the background and actually wondered why I always heard this chime when I talked to them while they were in his vehicle. Call me slow sometimes, but it hit me.... this was the seatbelt chime. So I asked if beau had on belt and of course the answer was no. Why not? I asked this question much to dd's dismay. Well since I heard this same chime whenever I talked to them, it only meant one thing, he never wears a seatbelt! Talk about aggravated, but it gets better. After they pass us, Yes. After. They. Pass. Us. I notice that DD isn't wearing one either!!
Cell phone:Rinnnnnggggg!!
DD: Hello
Me: Why don't you have your seatbelt on?
Keep in mind we are on a long, country road that speedster is flying down.
DD: silence and then nostril blowing........grrr....she knows I hate that!
Me: You better put your seatbelt on.....(and then I had to add) You're not married yet!
DD: OK (probably thinking, I'll be glad when I am)
I could not believe this. Our state has a seatbelt law and besides being totally irresponsible, she was breaking the law. (Of course I shared these facts with her) I wanted to add this to show an example of her changing behavior. She was not the same loving daughter that I normally had such a good, open relationship with.

Pulling into the church parking lot the next morning was something. There seemed to be quite a few people there. Now those of you with toddlers that don't
leave them in the nursery, know what it's like to have to make your way down to the front of the church looking for seating. I normally try to stick near the back with baby in case we need to go out. At least until they are older. That's the only time I like to be in the rear. I am normally an upfront girl.
The morning sermon was really good, but I just don't remember what it was about now. What I do remember is after the message, the pastor asked for everyone to come forward to the altar for a time of prayer. Since I was already near the front, this wasn't going to be so hard. I made my way to the front and out of the corner of my eye, I saw my DD coming as well. I don't have to tell you how this quickened my heart. In that same moment, I noticed a dear saint with her arm around DD. She was also coming to the altar. She made her way near me and asked me to come over to them. She wanted to pray for DD. I have to add here that this particular lady was not aware of the engagement until earlier this very morning of which I am speaking of and I had not spoken to her about this at all. She looked at me and said "You know what this is about" She then looked at DD and said to her "This is not the will of God for your life. He is not the one God has for you." DD began to cry, as well as myself.

Part ll

This may take three posts. I don't know. As I stated earlier, I was very uneasy about the upcoming wedding date and I was praying for divine intervention if it was not the will of God for DD. ( I was convinced in my own mind) Some of you may remember my post about lunch with the prospective groom's mother. I had made it clear that day that I had repeatedly stated to DD and beau, that at ANY time either of them felt that they should not go through with it, NOT TO! At the time, she, (prospective groom's mother)also agreed. I came to find out that she felt differently later.
One afternoon, (Thursday) as I was driving toward home, my heart was so heavy. I just could not get the peace of God about this wedding. I soooo wanted to. After all, this is my only daughter and it is such a special occassion. How could I not share everyone else's joy. I could not turn loose of all the thoughts that were invading my heart and mind. "God," I prayed, "I need someone that will join with me and pray." I meant totally agree with me in prayer, but who. I was afraid to try to confide in anyone else about my doubts and fears. I knew it would have to be someone that was not close to the situation. Finally I made it home, opened the door and came in. Not long after getting comfortable on the sofa, my phone rang. I looked at the caller Id, it was not a local number. I cautiously answered the phone and was pleasantly suprised. It was a female aqaintance I had not spoken with in over a year. She usually comes into town once a year, but she was letting me know that she wasn't coming this time. She thought this was the only reason she called, I knew differently. We talked a few minutes and she asked how the family was. I told her that DD was getting married. She knew that I was troubled over this. Now pay attention to what she said to me. "I am going agree with you for divine intervention if this is not the Lord's will for her." Well, at the time, I didn't even comprehend the magnitude of what she had said, but later it dawned on me. This is what I had asked God for, someone to agree with me for this very thing! He is awesome, I tell you!
Well, I can't explain the peace I felt about the situation after this. I had the peace of God. *smile* Seeing things through the natural eye, nothing had changed, but I was changed inside. I knew that He had everything under control.
Saturday morning was one filled with things to do. DD wanted to show me the house she wanted, plus, the final bridesmaid fittings were to be done. We were off to an early start and went by the bridal shop first. DD's gown had not yet been altered and I was going to make a payment on it. Well, I never got around to doing that with all the other girls trying on their dresses and being pinned. I am so glad I didn't either. (I'll explain that later) We were off from here and on to the cute little house the pair planned to live in after the wedding. His mother and sister met us over there. I have left so many things out to shorten this, really I have, but it is still long. I am going to publish this for now and take a break.

RE: Story

I haven't forgotten. I just don't have time to continue right now. I hope to finish later this evening or tonight. I have some things I have to take care of, and sadly enough, I can't fit blogging in right now. :(

The Wedding Story

Some of my friends have been wondering (Sara) how the wedding planning is going. I am going to post an update which may take two posts.

As you may know, Amanda was to get married December 16. As the date was closely approaching, so was my mounting concern. I was starting to notice things that I hadn't before. My daughter seemed to be changing right before my eyes. I no longer felt the passion from her as she sang on the praise team. I felt she was there out of obligation more than anything else. This crushed me. Why was this happening? I tried to brush it off as "mother's jitters", but I couldn't shake the uneasiness I felt in my spirit. I started to confide in one of my friends about my fears, but she cut me off before I could. She was sooo happy about the pending nuptials, how could I not be? The pair seemed perfect for each other. ( I had thought that once) Not that I don't like the prospective groom, I do,(did) but I didn't like what was being revealed. What's more, I couldn't talk to Darling Daughter (will refer to her as DD for the rest of the story) about it as she would "strap" on her invisible helmet and get defensive. Now, what is a mother to do? Well, being that our weapons are not carnal, I did what any mother would do in my position, being prompted by the spirit of God. I begin to pray for divine intervention.
Time to get ready for church. Part 11 later.

"I Won't Let Commercialism Spoil My Christmas"

Ahhh,there's nothing like watching Charlie Brown Christmas to warm your heart. I think it came on a little earlier this year. A Christmas story about the actual meaning of Christmas! How rare is that? I listened as Charlie Brown told the Christmas story and thought "Wow, you don't hear about "the angel Of the Lord" too much on secular television." I also thought how wonderful God is to allow His word to go worth even in a society that is bent on trying to rid the world of Him. I have to smile at this. Another thought was on the children that would be watching that have never heard about the birth of our saviour and would be able to receive the simplicity of it. We serve a mighty God I tell you!

It's Amazing.......

Hah! What do you know? This blog is still here even though it has been about a year! I decided to come back and try it again over here. Besides that, I have friends here and I can't comment on some of their blogs without being a user. I hated to leave FP, but I just couldn't seem to get the hang of it. I kept getting some type of error each time I tried to post. Oh well, Life goes on. It was nice coming back here. I need to update my profile and some other things, hopefully I can get that done later. Just wanted to sign in and check it out! Look out guys, I may be back after all!! *Grin*

The Most Important Things In Life Are Not Things!!

I think every year lots of people get "lost" in the "work" that is involved in what is suppose to be the celebration of the birth of Jesus. It takes away from our worship of Him and leaves us feeling stressed because we feel the need to purchase just the right gift for someone. This is not what God intended for us, but it happens year after year. I have to take time and realize myself that the most important things in life are not things. It is the love of Christ and what He has given for Us! Life eternal. What a blessing it is to know Him. Am I special? No. He has given everyone the ability to know Him. It is our choice to choose since He has made it available. I do not have to argue or convince others of the grace of God, but I do know and can attest to the facts of what He has done for me. Thank God I am not under bondage to a man-made religion or to religon. Again, this is where a lot of people miss it. It is relationship with my heavenly father, not what a "man" or "church doctrine" think I should do. I worship God because I want to, no other reason. I live a moral life because I want to and I am just as human as anyone else. I am not perfect, neither do I claim to be. As with any post that deal with topics about God, most of the comments are taken out of context or explained away as "feelings." This is dissapointing, but to be expected. Everyone does have the right to their own opinion. At least we still have that....for now anyway. I think of a former pastor from time to time. He is a very Godly man and has much wisdom. He once told of being asked about living his life all the way until death and the possibility of finding out there was no heaven. His response was that the life he had lived up to that point would still have been worth it. Now, that, my friend says a lot!!!!! That is being convinced in your own heart and not doubting. Merry Christmas to all!!

Christmas Rush

So much for being prepared this year. I started shopping earlier and really thought I would be ahead of everything, but nooooooooooo. Here it is, just a little over a week to go and I am not finished shopping or decorating or anything for that matter. I still have to finish shopping for Amanda mainly. At least I have a better idea what to get her. Caleb is pretty much finished. Nathan is going to be easy. I do have him the cutest big bird. I looked for one for so long and finally gave up and then the day I went to get Caleb's shirt at Belk's, there it was! I couldn't believe it!! It was waiting right there for me to cradle it up and bring it home. I can't wait to give it to him. I can just picture his smiling face now!
Now to the wrapping. That is not something I am looking forward to. I had planned to do it as I made my purchases. Needless to say, that didn't happen either. Now the gifts sit in the corner waiting for the moment to be gift presentable. Maybe tomorrow night!!
I am happy to report that we have two Christmas parties to attend. One at the church Saturday night and one for my husbands company on Sunday. Actually three.....if I count the one next Wednesday night for the kids at church. I am looking forward to it though. I love Christmas......the celebration of the birth of Christ. After all, He is the reason we are to celebrate!! Well, gotta go and get Caleb to bed.