Spring

I know I have been slack posting pictures lately, but I hope this will make up for it. I went out in my yard today and decided I best take some of the flowering trees before the cold weather comes back and "browns" them. This next picture is one of just that. It is a saucer magnolia that was blooming and the frost we had the night before stole it's beautiful color and vibrance. :(

It's all a part of Spring around here.My Bradford Pear tree is in full bloom. These are very popular around here. Great landscaping trees. I have only one, but it is a beauty. The sad thing about these are they announce Spring, but the blooms don't last long. Shortly after they *advertise* they return to foilage. Still pretty, though. This is one of my birdhouses. I have yellow bells planted beneath, but due to Ahem.....neighbor's dogs, they haven't faired too well, thus, no picture. Notice the green cedar behind the birdhouse. I personally, *patting myself on the back* planted this one from a tiny seedling. The picture doesn't do it justice. Of course that is my opinion.This little birdhouse had fallen from it's perch and I hadn't noticed until today. Sad, I know. I put it back, but it still has the remnants of ground abuse. My camera is not equipped to capture things as beautiful as this next one. It is very hard to see, but at the top is a worker bee in one of my evergreens. I am sorry that you can't see what I was witnessing. I am in awe of God and how He has made provisions for EVERYTHING in the cycle of life! The very first picture is of a plant that a dear christian lady gave me several years ago. Actually, she gave me a small piece of it and told me it would grow anywhere. At the time, I was not so sure. I didn't get the full scope of it, but she was right. I can't remember the name of it right now, but it has grown. It's also a sticker and one that I will have to watch when Nathan is outside.

The Crepe Myrtles won't bloom for awhile. Now, those are real beauties. I hope I am not disappointed this year. If so, it will be my own fault since I didn't cut them back. It's not time to fertilize them yet, but I plan to do that soon. Maybe that will make up for the lack of pruning. I can hope, can't I? For some more pretty pictures of Spring, go over to Keeper Of The Home's page and enjoy!

It Is Well

Often we read the bible or passages in the bible without *getting* it. Many lessons can be found in one passage of scripture if we take the time to allow the Holy Spirit to speak to us, teach us, and encourage us. I don't want to miss a thing. I want the passion and the message poured into my life, as well as flowing out, for others to see, hear and know Jesus! It's about glorifying Him.

My last post I talked about hearing the gospel and as christians, we may have heard it so much that we are not *moved* by it anymore. I find this true as well in reading the scriptures. How many times have we read about miracles and instead of being awed, we have taken it lightly? I mean, you know where we read about the hand of God doing something so divine and because there are only a few verses depicting it, we don't comprehend the full magnitude of what God is trying to say to us. I realize God may emphasis certain scriptures during times of our life to minister to us and use the same scripture at yet another time to minister to a different need. This is just another awesome thing about our Lord. God is the same. He hasn't changed. He wants us to know Him and acknowledge Him for all that He is!

I think this was a lesson on the power of the tongue, but it also displays the power God has placed within us, as women. I want to go ahead and share the wondrous message of last Sunday's service and some of the nuggets I came away with. I have read this before, but I had never *gotten* it the way I did Sunday. In 2 Kings Chapter 4 the word says this

8. And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread.
9And she said unto her husband, Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually.
10Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall; and let us set for him there a bed, and a table, and a stool, and a candlestick: and it shall be, when he cometh to us, that he shall turn in thither.

How many times have you read verse 8 and realized the woman was "great"? I hadn't. Another thing I had not thought about was this husband/wife must have had wealth. In verse 10 it says they built a little chamber or room. This was apart from the rest of the house, meaning it had it's own entrance for Elisha to come and go as he pleased. Something else, she recognized the anointing of God upon Elisha's life and she wanted to be a help to him. She did this without expecting anything in return. How do I know this? Read verse 13 carefully.

11And it fell on a day, that he came thither, and he turned into the chamber, and lay there.
12And he said to Gehazi his servant, Call this Shunammite. And when he had called her, she stood before him.
13And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host? And she answered, I dwell among mine own people.

In verse 11 I imagine Elisha going into his private room for rest, maybe after a time he had spent ministering, and thought about all the needs of so many. And then maybe after all the needs of others came to mind, he thought about how nice his room was and how good his supper was. (verse 8) It says that as often as he passed by he ate. He knew he could count on a good meal as well as a place of rest. Considering these things, he wanted to bless her for being a blessing to him, but when called for her and asked what he could do for her, she didn't ask for anything. Whether it was because she had need of nothing or either she was content, I do not know, but Elisha wanted to do something for her and asked Gehazi his opinion on the matter.

14And he said, What then is to be done for her? And Gehazi answered, Verily she hath no child, and her husband is old.

She did not ask for a child. I don't know if this was an unspoken desire of hers or if Gehazi just thought this was the perfect blessing for her. The scripture doesn't state that here. In my own opinion, I think by her reaction in verse 16, she may have had the desire, but given it up long ago. In the next few verses, we read of the son being given to her and the sudden death of him.

15And he said, Call her. And when he had called her, she stood in the door.
16And he said, About this season, according to the time of life, thou shalt embrace a son. And she said, Nay, my lord, thou man of God, do not lie unto thine handmaid.
17And the woman conceived, and bare a son at that season that Elisha had said unto her, according to the time of life.
18And when the child was grown, it fell on a day, that he went out to his father to the reapers.
19And he said unto his father, My head, my head. And he said to a lad, Carry him to his mother.
20And when he had taken him, and brought him to his mother, he sat on her knees till noon, and then died.

Here in verse 20, I cannot, and do not want to imagine the grief and utter shock this woman was going through. What I do want to draw attention to is the strength and faith of this woman. Also in verse 23 what she told her husband when he began to question her about why she was going to see the man of God. IT SHALL BE WELL. She did not tell him the boy was dead. I can't imagine how she was able to keep it together without telling him. The power of words.

21And she went up, and laid him on the bed of the man of God, and shut the door upon him, and went out.
22And she called unto her husband, and said, Send me, I pray thee, one of the young men, and one of the asses, that I may run to the man of God, and come again.
23And he said, Wherefore wilt thou go to him to day? it is neither new moon, nor sabbath. And she said, It shall be well.

In verse 24 I see a woman with a mission. She saddles her own donkey while her servant looks on. Shouldn't he be doing this? Once saddled, she informed the servant to get her to the man of God and get there quick. And not to slow down unless she told him to.

25So she went and came unto the man of God to mount Carmel. And it came to pass, when the man of God saw her afar off, that he said to Gehazi his servant, Behold, yonder is that Shunammite:


Just for a smile moment.... did you catch that southern vernacular in verse 25? " Behold, yonder is that Shunammite:
Emphasis mine on yonder. *smile*
I believe when Elisha saw her coming he knew something must be wrong. This was a woman that would not just come for a visit. Another reason I believe he knew it to be urgent is he told Gehazi in verse 26 to run to her. Notice the questions he told him to ask her and notice her answer. It is Well.

26Run now, I pray thee, to meet her, and say unto her, Is it well with thee? is it well with thy husband? is it well with the child? And she answered, It is well:

She was not wasting time and didn't want to talk about it with anyone except the man of God. She would not be deterred until she got there. Notice what verse 27 says. She grabbed him by the feet. I picture this woman falling at his feet in such sorrow and pain. She had to touch him, he had to know her hurt. Again, verse 28 makes me think she secretly desired a child, but never verbalized it for whatever reason. Look at what she says. I can sense the grief in her words..

27And when she came to the man of God to the hill, she caught him by the feet: but Gehazi came near to thrust her away. And the man of God said, Let her alone; for her soul is vexed within her: and the LORD hath hid it from me, and hath not told me.
28Then she said, Did I desire a son of my lord? did I not say, Do not deceive me?

In verse 29 Elisha sent his servant, but this mother was not going to settle for that. She had come all this way and she was determined. She let Elisha know she wasn't going anywhere until HE went to her son. It's apparent Elisha knew she wasn't playing and she wasn't planning on giving up. Look at what she said in verse 30. I am sure she said those words and I think a little more cause look what it says after that.........."And he arose and followed her." I think he learned a little about dealing with a determined woman. Don't you? *grin*
29Then he said to Gehazi, Gird up thy loins, and take my staff in thine hand, and go thy way: if thou meet any man, salute him not; and if any salute thee, answer him not again: and lay my staff upon the face of the child.
30And the mother of the child said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And he arose, and followed her.

The rest of the story goes on to tell of how her son was restored. Can you see her now? Picking her son up after his life was restored and taking him into their part of the house. Going on into the kitchen to prepare the evening meal for the family like nothing happened. Imagine the conversation around the table when her husband came in to eat. Remember, he had been in the fields. He may have asked her about her trip or maybe she told him everything. Maybe she didn't. Maybe she repeated her previous statement. All is Well. I don't know, but Praise God! What a wonderful thing, but what if the woman would have done things differently? What if soon after her son died she would have went out to her husband and told him the horrible news. I pray I am never confronted with anything like this. When I tried to picture myself, I didn't see me being as strong. I would have probably ran out out of the house screaming for my husband. I'm not saying we shouldn't share things with our spouse, because we are. We should be as one, but in this case, she knew better. Was it because she knew what he would have said to her? Would he have shared her same desperation and faith or would he have joined in mourning and held a funeral? Therefore never knowing the joy of having their son restored. I don't know. I hope you seen the strength and faith of this woman like I did. God has placed something within us, ladies! I know we feel insignificant at times, but God has faith in us. Isn't that wonderful?

It is well. Can we say that with confidence? When I mentioned the power of words, I am not talking about "positve thinking" neither am I saying that we should bury our heads in the sand and act like nothing is going on. I am saying that we need to recognize our problems and then acknowledge God and allow HIM to be God in us!

I know this has been long, but I know it has been worth the time to read. I saw many things in this I had never seen before. Even as I read it again for this post. Something else important here, this is more than a story. It is an actual event that took place. More than one lesson can be taken from this and applied to my life. How about you?

Refreshed

Revival was great! Each night the message was encouraging words that I needed to hear. Anita was wondering what a revival is. One definition states that it is a series of meetings held in the same place for several nights. And it is mainly in the south. That was news to me. I thought it was common in all denominations. My own definition is: A series of meetings held by a guest speaker to "stir up the gifts" within is and reignite the fire of the Holy Ghost in our lives. I feel that it is also a time God uses to minister to us "one on one" and cause us to reflect on our spiritual walk. You know, examine our own selves since we've already figured out what is wrong with everyone else. *grin*

I personally feel that the word should accomplish this in our *normal* services, but sad to say, it doesn't always happen. We have become a people that is "Gospel hardened" meaning we have heard it so much that it falls on ears that are not "hearing" anymore. In other words, some of us have become "immune" to God's word. The book of Revelation opens this up more when it speaks of the churches and the state it is in. Laodician keeps coming to mind here.

Sunday morning service was wonderful. There was a particular story in the bible that I have read many times before, but Sunday I saw it in a different way. I plan to post more on that later. You ladies will like it, I'm sure. I know I did. I will try to post it in the next couple of days. Until then, blessings to all!

Yipee!

YIPEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's revival tonight! I am sooooo looking forward to the service! I know it is going to be great! I know Jesus will be there cause I'm taking HIM with me!!!!!!!!!! Praise Him! Praise Him!

Pearly White

I just love the way my teeth feel right after a dental cleaning. Like shiny, new pearls , or what I would imagine new pearls to feel like. I can't help but roll my tongue over my teeth. My mouth feels so much fresher and I almost think water taste purer and I am certain they look a shade whiter. I have also made the resolution to take more care of what I put in my mouth. I don't want them to get dirty. I want this feeling to last forever! I know with time our teeth start to stain, but with all the products available, I want to stay on top of it.

I was thinking about this earlier and comparing it to our spiritual life. How wonderful and "clean" we feel after being washed by the blood of Jesus. As for my own experience, all things were exactly how the scripture described them. They were NEW. It was absolutely true! The grass was greener and the sky was bluer. And most important, Love. I felt such an overwhelming love. Love like I had never known before. I was completely accepted by my Lord. All my former sins had been forgiven and I was now one of His. Speaking for myself, I didn't want anything to stain this "new" creature I had become.(I am not talking about works of the law here, so please don't misunderstand.)

I did not want to do the things the "old" me use to. Those desires, by the grace of God were gone. I wanted to know more about HIM and how to live a pleasing life. I began to read God's word and believe every word of it. I was in church every service and eager to hear the word preached. In my heart, I wanted to do everything possible to *keep* myself clean. I can do nothing apart from Christ. Therein lies the problem.

There is so much going on in this world and life is full of things that keeps us busy and steals our time. The bible tells us that Lot was a righteous man, but his soul was vexed from the things going on around him. We have to remain in constant relationship with our Lord above all else. Nothing ever "goes" right if we don't. (Hard lesson I have learned) And if we are not careful, we allow things to creep back from our "old" life that will "stain" our spiritual walk. Old habits, attitudes, laziness, unconcern for our brothers and sisters are a few and this is why Paul said that he died daily. I don't want to be stained by the world's thoughts and opinions. I want to be clean and holy. " Be ye holy, for I am holy" saith the Lord. Eventually the old man will try to resurrect, none of us are immune to this, but my prayer is we can be like Paul and crucify the flesh. This comes through Christ alone.

Headaches and Purses

It's that time of year again. The sinus pressure that causes the dreadful headache that announces the beginning of Spring. I awoke with one this morning, but Praise God, it was a beautiful day!

I have been busy, busy over the weekend. I had two birthday parties, TWO! I would like to go into detail about why I had two, but I don't want to destroy the image of my perfect mothering skills. Let's just say "better late than never." *smile*


Since discovering Ross Dress For Less and T.J. Maxx, I rarely visit the mall anymore. When I go to the mall, you can bet I hit Kirkland's and Bath and Body Works. I love the new pomegranate lotion at B&B. It smells wonderful. I had a gift card and used every penny of it, plus more, sad to say, but I sure smell good. I had a nice visit to Kirkland's as well. I was only there to browse, but something caught my eye and you know what happened next. Before I knew it, I was at the checkout with a sachet. Their's are the best, you know. That's not all, I must confess, I bought a purse. I know, like what are they doing selling purses? After all, isn't this a *home* store?

I have noticed that the quilted look ones are *in* around here, especially by a certain designer. These were not designer, but looked as good for a fraction of the price. On top of all this good news, there was one in a color combination that I actually liked. (green, for those who may not know what my favorite color is) I took it off the rack and before I could pay for it, another lady had the other one just like it. ( I know she saw mine and had to have it) *smile*
I was going to post a picture, but my flash drive for the camera is in my other purse in the back of the car and.......don't ask.

Where Did I Get Those Shoes?

I wanted to wait until I was "all caught up" to post, but since that isn't happening fast enough, I thought I would pop in and let you know that "I am alive." Praise God! I was out of town for a couple of days. It was absolutely wonderful! My husband and I were celebrating our twenty-second anniversary. CHILD-FREE!! We had a wonderful time. As much as I enjoyed the peace of it all, (call me crazy) I missed my children. Taking in some of the sights and so forth, I would look at something and think "-------- would like to see this" (insert either child's name in blank) Funny how we as mothers are like that, huh?

Shortly after arriving home I got the strongest urge to *spring clean* and it hasn't let up. I pulled several things out of my closet and put them into the big, black bag of *no return*. That means once it goes in there, it goes out. I hold on to stuff that I shouldn't. I don't know why I have a hard time of letting go. Some things hold memories that stir up many emotions such as a diaper pack that had a picture of a baby that could be my daughter's twin. I don't even know where it came from, but I have saved it since she was just a tiny baby. Caleb's first sandals that as so cute and small. It's hard to believe he actually wore these. These things are definitely NOT going anywhere. Then there are cards from friends that I rarely even converse with anymore. These things can really bring on the tears. Why don't we have time to spend with our friends. Okay....I know this is an entire post on it's own, so I won't go there.

Then I have the clothes. Clothes, clothes and more clothes all in various sizes. I have pieces from my "just married" and skinny days and my "been married over 20 years" and not so skinny days. I am not kidding. I ought to check into getting those huge plastic numbers used to seperate the sizes on the racks. Not only would they come in handy in my closet, but they would also make a yard sale rack look much neater. Hmm...I wonder if they are for sale. I have the "I could never get rid of that because I WILL wear it again" piece that is in a size I only dream about. What's bad about this is if I were that size again, I probably wouldn't wear it again, I mean, uh, it would be out of style or then again, maybe not. I have heard that once you see the same style return for a second run, you are real old. Personally, I don't believe in those "old wives tales." *grin* I say if you see it return, grab it out of your closet and put it on!! (If you can still wear it)

Seriously though, the task of closet cleaning is a lot harder than it sounds. I had to make a concerted effort to place things in the "bag of no return." I found shoes that I had never even seen before, much less had worn! What's up with that?!! Blessed I tell you! Blessed! That's what we are, a people that is blessed! Praises to you, my Lord, Jesus!

Prayer Request

I would appreciate everyone that would to please pray for a family at my church. There are 3 sisters from one family that attends and just lost one of their sisters to death last week. Now, a 4th sister that attends another church, lost her husband to a heart attack early this morning. VERY unexpected and devastating! She has buried her sister only one week ago and now is dealing with the death of her spouse. They have a 17 yr. old son who is to graduate this year and as you can imagine, is not doing well. They were very close.

Betty Crocker Lives!

I would like to post about the productive day I've had as a wife and mother with pictures of me in my calico apron, polishing the furniture and how I have all the supper dishes washed, dried, and put away after preparing a fantastic feast. I would also like to add that I have next week's meals (seven nights worth) frozen in little containers awaiting to be popped out and warmed for quick, hearty meals. How all the toys are put away, all the pillows are on the couch where they belong and all the beds made. While I'm still on the subject, all homework is finished, rooms all tidy and laundry all caught up. Ahhhh, and the smell of fresh bread baking wafting through each room is an added bonus.

I can't omit the scenario of my darling children playing yahtzee on the round rug in the livingroom while the dog (mine stays outside) snores mini-decibles on the porch. Or how hubs is relaxed in his easy chair after consuming a large slice of apple pie, made from scratch, no doubt, with huge, juicy, tart apples. Let's don't forget about my planner being jam packed with tons of activities for the coming week and my grocery list waiting to be rescued from the leather binding that keeps it neat and sleek.


This would be deceptive. Nah, not deceptive, a total, flat-out lie. That's southern lingo for those who may not recognize this paticular vernacular. *Grin* As I stated in the beginning paragraph, I would LIKE to post these things, but I can't. Not saying that these things don't take place in some homes, I am sure they do...somewhere....just not here. (I am not against anyone that "has it all together") I have dishes in my sink as I sit here and type. I don't like for them to be there this long, but they are for now. We had take-out for supper. The pillows from my sofa are scattered all over the floor with a book bag, Caleb's shoes and an assortment of toys. My bed is not made. I have a good excuse for this one, but choose not to share it at this time. It's true I have frozen meals, but Lean Cuisine, and a few other companies get the credit for placing them in the little containers. The smell of fresh bread is a memory left at the wal-mart bakery. It wafts through the aisles there for sure.

I have more than one load of laundry that isn't finished and *gasp* I don't even own an apron. The most important truth of this post is I do have a family. They are not perfect. How many times have I snorted (to keep from doing something else) when I open the refrigerator to find 2 drops of milk left in a gallon jug that has been placed back onto an already crowed shelf? THROW IT AWAY, PLEASE! I have the same problem with soft drinks and juice. And dishes. For some unbeknownst reason, dishes can never make it past the kitchen counter. (I am thankful they make it from the coffee table, kitchen table, bedroom) If you're not going to load the dishwasher, can't you please place them in the sink?!!!! Nathan keeps the pillows from the sofa on the floor. No matter how many times I pick them up and put them back he comes behind me and takes them off. It's one of his favorite pastimes, along with the toy parade. No, definitely not a perfect family, but one that is very much loved!

Ramble

I had another birthday this week. Praise God for another year of health! We won't go into my age, but let's just say that my dear friend, Anita was the first to make a comment about my looking older. *Grin* How did she know? I am making plans to eat at one of my favorite restaurants that hubs is taking me to. I hope to go sometime in the coming week. It is difficult to plan with his work schedule. He is also taking me out of town for our anniversary. That is coming next weekend. I know it hasn't been that long since we were away, but I am looking forward to it again. The weather is suppose to be wonderful.
I don't know why, but I have seemed to have taken on the blahs. The last couple of days have been the worst for it. I really don't know why. My daughter told me just today that I looked good, to which I replied, " I should, I have slept for 28 hours!" This of course was after I had taken a shower and fixed my hair. Speaking of hair, I darkened mine and had just a few blonde highlights added. I like it, but my mother doesn't. She likes me au naturale, blonde. My mother is a dark brunette, like my daughter. I got the blonde from my dad's side of the family. That's about the only thing, though. *sigh*
Well, if you haven't noticed by now, this is a total pointless post. I have rambled on about absolutely nothing important. So as not to waste anymore of precious time, I am going to get off here and watch something on t.v. Hah! Now that is being productive!!

Blessings!

I hope all had a wonderful Valentine's Day. Of course hubs had to work so I knew to make plans accordingly. I decided to take my mother out to lunch. She seemed to be pleased with that idea and off I went. She lives about thirty minutes away if I drive the interstate and Iusually do. It was nice be able to spend time with her. There was a time awhile back that I wondered if she would ever be able to do *normal* things again. To God, I am grateful for He has restored her health.

I knew it was sorta hard on Amanda today. Actually, I think it has wore on her for the last couple of days. She had mentioned how her co-workers would be receiving the usual flower and candy expressions of love on this day and how she would not. I tried to ease the pain a little by having her Valentine gift and card ready to greet her upon her awakening. I got her the cutest, gold, heart necklace with matching earrings. She wears more silver, but it was not available. Thankfully, she loved it anyway, in fact, she wore it to work. Her dad also spoiled her with a teddy bear that held a heart pillow inscribed with "Daddy's Little Girl."

Caleb has always been the easiest to please. Knowing this, I got him the heart balloon and his favorite candy. He loves Snickers candy bars. This was his first time ever getting the "big" pack. He thought he had hit the lottery. I started to get him a box of the usual fare, but I knew it would be wasted. He doesn't normally eat too much of that kind of stuff. Grateful, yes, I am. He liked his card as well.

I did purchase Nathan a small box of valentine candy. He is a different story when it comes to eating the junk. Definite limits, but my fear was soon averted. He was hilarious. He took one bite out of each piece and as soon as he got the chocolate all chewed up in his mouth, he would spit it out. That was it. He was finished. Hmmm.... I should try this to help ease the calorie consumption. The balloon was another story. He romped and played with that about all day.

I just have to tell you about my adventure while out buying my family's Valentine's gifts. I have a few places that I love to browse around. I have mentioned my *love* for the Ross Dress For Less before and I also *love/like* T. J. Maxx. I have found some real treasures at these places in the past. In an earlier post I wrote about searching for particular tea cup. Well, I FOUND IT!!!!!!!!! It was a complete and utter suprise to me. If you knew how many times I have combed the shelves looking for this pattern, you would understand. I have found a few pieces, but that is another story I will explain later. When I rounded the end of the counter and spied not one, but two of them sitting on the shelf, I was pure giddy. I know, I should be embarrassed about that and I am. Ahem, moving along, I picked them up ever so gently and welcomed them into my family. I have asked previously about the matching teapot and was told that they get it occassionally, but it is rare. I was content for now with my delicate darlings and cushioned them carefully in the backseat for the rest of the journey.


Before going home, I decided to stop at Marshalls. I had the strange thought that I might find the matching teapot there. As I got out of the car I felt a little rush of excitement. My niece was with me and I turned to her before getting to the china area and said "If that teapot is here, you will have to scoop me up and take me home." I strolled through the doors and to the back of the store and I AM NOT JOKING WHEN I TELL YOU THIS, I had to put my hand over my mouth to keep from making a sound that would surely have a S.W.A.T. team on site. Sitting on a shelf that I had looked at so many times before was the matching teapot that had not been there so many times before!! God is sooooo gooood!!


Now some might say "What has God got to do with this?" Well, remember when I mentioned I had found a few pieces of this pattern before? Here's what happened.
On one of my expeditions I found a beautiful bowl in this same lovely pattern. It just so happened another lady was watching me admire this beautiful piece. She quickly picked it up as I sat it down. I looked past her and saw a big, red box. This is unusual because most pieces are not boxed in this area. Upon examination, I found it to be another bowl just like the first one except it had two pieces that were included for the same price and of course, missing from the first one. The same lady that had picked up the first one was eagerly awaiting my decision on the second one. Believe me, I would have loved to have had this bowl. She asked me if I was going to purchase it and I decided to let her have it. I am not sure she was expecting this as she stammered "Are you sure? You know, Finders, keepers." Again, I let her know it was her's for the taking. She placed it in her cart and got away from there quickly all the while thanking me.

When I first found the teacups, the lady came back to mind. I am fully convinced that I was blessed to *find* the pieces I have been searching for because I relinquished the bowl. It is amazing to know that God, being as great as He is would be concerned about such. Isn't He just wonderful?

Without further ado, I present my latest. And Yes, they are wonderful Valentine, anytime treasures!

Bible Quiz

After I posted this I read the little summary and my thoughts were Hah! Not hardly! I DO NOT KNOW IT ALL! It's just a fun little quiz.

Well, definetly not bragging here, cause I lack reading the word as much as I should lately, but since Beth had her results posted, thought I would too.

You know the Bible 96%!

Wow! You are awesome! You are a true Biblical scholar, not just a hearer but a personal reader! The books, the characters, the events, the verses - you know it all! You are fantastic!

Ultimate Bible Quiz
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Suprise

Well, I don't have anything earth shattering to share, but here I am. I have been quite the busy lady lately. Hmmm...that's almost a tongue twister. I have thought of everyone almost daily, but I haven't had the time I needed to stop and post. Something embarrassing did happen to me in Wal-Mart the other day. Since my secret is out about Nathan NOT being potty trained, I will share.
I went to Wal-Mart for what I thought to be an uneventful trip. Once again, I had gone to the huge one that recently opened. Not long after arriving, my sweet one had "did" one and had me looking for the restroom. I went in and just for a fleeting moment, I noticed that there wasn't that many stalls for it to be such a large store. The thing I was impressed with was the changing table. It was nice, large and clean. Very interesting. I was trying to hurry and change Nathan as I heard someone "in" one of the stalls. Just as I was getting his pants up, A man walks in. YES. IT. WAS. A. MAN. With a huge look of shock on his face, he backed up. Another guy was right on his tracks. Thinking about it, they must have been together because he came in behind him. By this time, I am totally embarrassed and I am stammering, sweating, wondering, and trying to figure out why am I in here with two men. Trying to keep it together, I very nicely mumble something about not being in the right place.
All the while I am thinking surely these two men have made a mistake. I mean, I know I am in the right place. I pick Nathan up and try to walk out so nonchalantly. Upon exiting the bathroom, I am met by several men and women that have congregated outside the door. Yes, they were all there and had witnessed the conversation that had just taken place inside the restroom. And there it was, the plaque with the the male figure to indicate which sex had the right to use this facility. Now, I could have just died. Talk about stammering and murmuring incoherently, I was doing that for sure.
I don't remember looking at that sign before entering the bathroom. One reason is because at the Wal-Mart closest to my home, this is the location of the ladies' room. I now know that the placement of the restrooms is the opposite of what I am use to.
As for the person that was in a stall, (whom I assumed was a female) they never made another sound that I heard. I never saw them exit the restroom either. Then again, after I made my grand exit, I didn't stick around for a finale.

We Too, Like Eggs.....

We all have probably heard tips on how to boil eggs to keep the shell from sticking. Put plenty of salt in the water or don't boil fresh eggs, etc. Pretty eggs taste the same as the "ugly" ragged ones, but I usually put plenty of salt in the water and try not to worry about it. Recently, while trying to remove the shells from some that I had boiled, I noticed something. Dry eggs are not easy to peel. The shells were so much easier to remove if I kept submerged them in water.

Isn't that just how we are? We have layers of things that need peeling sometimes. Some things that hinder us from being "pretty" and smoothe. There are lots of things I could mention, but won't. I think we all know what our own shells collect, therefore no need to list here. We are to examine our own selves. What I find interesting is how, we too, like eggs are easier to "peel" if we are "watered" by the Spirit. We do this by staying in the word and walking in fellowship of our Savior. All those things that have "collected" will slide right off. No tugging and pulling necessary.

Bread

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

John 14:21

Nap Time

We all know there is nothing like a nap after church and a big 'ole lunch on Sunday afternoon. Just being able to kick off those Sunday slippers and snooze is a great feeling. I captured Nathan getting readybefore we could get home. He usally just twirls his hair with his fingers, but today, well.................you get the picture!

Saturday

There was so much waiting for me to get accomplished today. I didn't. I lounged around until after lunch before deciding to take a shower and get dressed. It has been one of those days. Nice and lazy. We decided to go to Texas steakhouse for a late lunch/early supper. The food was hot and delicious and Nathan was pretty cooperative throughout the meal. This is a great blessing! He usually eats chicken tenders, but not today. He wanted steak. I don't know what brought about his different meat choice, but I am not complaining. Caleb has always been a picky eater and would eat chicken tenders, french fries and honey mustard for every meal if I would allow it. Not wanting Nathan to follow in Caleb's steps, I try to be careful to offer a variety of foods. Not that I didn't do this with Caleb. I did, but he didn't take the bait.
After leaving the restaurant, we were off on a personal hygiene shopping extravaganza. You know, soap, toothpaste, shampoo, etc., etc. A very huge, huge, Wal-mart opened recently and we decided to journey over to it and check it out. I mean, who wouldn't want to blow out $50 worth of gas circling the parking lot? I have to say that I am impressed with the building and the larger selection. I wanted to stroll over every aisle, but I didn't. I gathered our necessities and headed to the checkout. After all, we had to make our next indulgence stop. Baskin Robbins. There's just something about a scoop of Rocky Road packed underneath all that hot fudge and whipped cream. It's a sight to behold and it doesn't taste that bad either! Ohhhh the calories. Too late to worry about that.
On the way home, hubs and I were talking about how God has blessed us. He has given us a wonderful family and a home to keep them in. I am so thankful. There was a time in our marriage, we could barely afford gas and groceries. And McDonald's was a splurge! There was a time in our marriage that we were yet in our sins, and God still loved us! Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me!

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.