Check out these cool 'Flips'

Nanny and Grandpa have the little ones all week, so Mom was looking for some fun projects to keep them busy (aka ~ out of trouble!).

She decided for today, with it being my day off, we could have a fun girls' day with Savannah.

So, we headed off to Wal-Mart and Nanny had us pick out the color of flip-flops we liked.

Savannah (obviously) ended up with a stunning pair of Princess Pink and I chose some oriental looking red-trimmed bamboo ones.

Nanny got some plain black ones and we picked out a pair of brown for Mommy when she gets back from Honduras.

From there, we headed over to Michael's to pick out cute ribbon to accent our chosen 'flip's. (And to pick up a little something for brother - and a cute little pink summer hat for Meo.)

We stopped off at Wendy's for some lunch and came back to the house and got to work.

Before long, we had some cool little jazzed-up summer footwear!

~

And on loooong summer days such as these...

we all could use a little something to make the days a little cooler!!

The Secret Place

~

Last week, I shared that I had really begun to get serious about making my devotional time a priority. Even if it means getting up earlier than before. I want God to know how much I want Him with me in my daily life.

~

Well, Monday I had to run around town, so I stopped by Lifeway to look at a couple of new books that just released I'd been anxious to read. And I am never able to just go get what I have in mind and then just leave with that. I have to peruse. I have to scope out what's new. I have to see what I've been missing! Basically, I have to pick out a big stack of books, to eventually have to put some back, to ultimately walk out with an easy $100 worth of new reading material.

~

But, Monday I actually did really well! I was amazed! I almost put one back, but decided not to, and got everything I'd settled on and it only came to $68! Not bad!! For five books! The two new fiction books I'd been looking forward to coming out. Two great ones by John MacArthur. And a new devotional by Andrew Murray.

~

I've kind of been looking for a new devotional (I've done Streams for over 3 years straight now) but just didn't find one that 'called me' like this one. :) It's called: "Daily in His Presence". Just what I've been desiring. And I don't know about any of you, but when I'm looking at any new devotionals, to get a good 'feel' for it, I always look up (first) my birthday and (second) the present day.

~

Well, the May 12th scripture is ~ "Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spririt lives in you? God's temple is sacred , and you are that temple." (1 Cor. 3:16-17)

Wow. What a sense of humility, pride and responsibility that scripture stirs up. And to think that many times, He feels so distant? When He couldn't be any closer. And, the transitive property dictates that we are sacred (aka: regarded with reverence) in God's own eyes!

~

Then, June 2nd (Monday) the scripture is ~ "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now, remain in my love." (John 15:9)

Again. What an honor to be part of such a powerful unity. He loves us in the very way that the Father loves His one and only Son. And desires for us to remain in this love.

But, it's up to us to remain. He's the constant. He loves us unconditionally. It's up to us to accept this unconditional love and remain in it.

~

Devotion.

~

That brings me to today's lesson ~ "But, when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." (Matt. 6:6)

~

Tonight, Gary spoke about the 'Invisible World' (based on "The Invisible War" by Chip Ingram). The fourth dimension, if you will. All the things out there not visible or tangible to our sight or touch. One of which being that of satan. Another being God ('the Father Who is unseen'). But, notice, just after He acknowledges our inability to see Him, it goes on to say 'the Father sees what is done'.

We may not see Him - in our traditional, tangible sense. But, we must be assured that He sees us.

And loves us.

And lives within us.

And how could we not remain in just the mere thought of that!

*attached is my new devotional 'theme song'. Don't know how Natasha Bedingfield intended it, but I think it's a great proclamation against satan and his schemes! Don't you? And just catchy enough to have in my arsenal to send him fleeing any time of day. :) No matter how he tries to control me. For I know I have a Love that is all mine!*

"And they'll have
FUN, FUN, FUN ~








'til their Nanny takes their 'Donut' away..."


Mom and Dad had the kids this weekend, so I came over yesterday and we spent a large part of the day out in the pool. Suffice it to say, THEY LOVE THEIR POOL-TIME. But, we had a good time. Savannah's still so proud that she can walk all the way across 'the blue' and back and Emery is ecstatic that he can stand 'in the blue' and just wants to be in there all-the-time. He wasn't too sure about their little innertube, but when he got in the larger one with me and I spun him around like the teacup ride, he didn't want to stop! (I better rest up for next week when they'll be here the whole week!!) I'm as tuckered as they are!!

Sweet Surprise

So, I get up this morning, and even though I got up early I'm running late... as usual. I throw on my capris (new ones, mind you), fresh out of the dryer, catch a glimpse of a little string at the bottom and lo and behold, the entire cuff comes undone! AGH! I have no time and am in no mood to pick out anything new at this point. So, I whip out some black thread and a little needle and very loosely stitch the hem back in place. Am halfway done when the phone rings.

It's mom.

She says: Yeah, hey. I was just wondering... do you have a spare key to your apartment, or do you just have the one?

Me: Uh, well, I just have the one.... why...

Mom: Well, you should really have a duplicate made... what if we were to need to get in and didn't have a key?

Me: ???

Mom: Why don't you just drop yours off on the way to work and dad'll go get you one made. Can you do that?

Me: Uh, I'd really rather do it after work.

Mom: Well... um...

Me: I mean, I've been her 5 1/2 years and you need a duplicate made by 10:00 this morning??

Mom: Alright, fine. I can't lie. We need to get into your apartment today. Can you bring your key or what?

Me: Alright. (???)

I drop the key off in a rush to work and tell her it better have something to do with Ed McMahon.

She assured me that it did not.

So about 2:00 this afternoon, I get a call at work from my sister.

She says: It was supposed to be a surprise, but I just need to ask you. What are all these clothes in your closet? Are the ones in the bags to keep or give to GoodWill? And the shoes all over the floor - I'm assuming that those are the ones you wear? And what about all the clothes thrown in a pile? Are those to keep?

Me: ???

Jodi: I came down to clean your apartment for you today, just as a favor for you. (but, I can't make heads or tails out of this mess and now I'm seriously re-thinking the whole thing!!!) :)

Me: (Aw, man. Was it really that bad the other day when Mom came to sit with me after my colonoscopy??) What prompted this?

Jodi: You just came to my mind during my quiet time this morning, so I decided to do this for you.

Me: (-------- ) - I mean, really what do you say to that?

You know the funny thing...

The last two mornings I've slept on the sofa. It's just easier for me to get up earlier out in the living room in front of the big open picture window on a sofa just from under a blanket than it is to crawl out of the comfy covers of a soft cozy bed with all the blinds and drapes drawn.

And I've committed to actually getting up to do devotions in the morning as opposed to nighttime.

And, if you know me at all, you know what a challenge this is for me.

But, I've always just used the excuse: God knows I'm not a morning person. He made me that way. :) And besides, I find I sleep better when I do it at night.

Problem is... I keep watching episode upon episode of either Frazier or M*A*S*H 'till like 2:00 in the morning and THEN decide 'well, it's too late now - I need to get to sleep - I'll just do better tomorrow night'. (Again and again and again...)

So, after being convicted by Anne Graham Lotz the other day (with her saying how hard it is for her to get up early and do her devotion time) I decided that this would be my way of showing God how serious I am about meeting with Him.

By fasting from my comfy bed and snoozing time.

Now, granted... it's in small steps, mind you!

Yesterday morning, I sat up, read my "Streams" and laid back down, just listening to 90.7 ('amen'ing them with my eyes closed).

But, today, I actually read "Streams", got out my Bible and read our daily reading from Acts that our church is doing and then laid back down, but this time, with the radio turned off, just more or less talking to God in my half-comatose state.

But, not really dealing with any specifics (I'd covered them the night before in my prayer journal) I was really just more or less trying to be obedient. Just saying "Okay, here I am Lord. Speak to me. Don't speak to me. But, I am yours (at least semi-consciously) for these 30 minutes."

Next thing I know, the phone is ringing and mom's looking for the key to my apartment.

Jodi's just been thinking of me in her quiet time.

And if that's not God showing His love for me and acknowledgement for the little sacrifice I've made the last two days... I don't know what is.

And that beats anything Ed McMahon could ever bring to my doorstep.

*

Thank you, Sis.

You and Savannah (and Mom) made my day.

Love you all.

Pluggin' Away...

Here's the latest soon-to-be hit "You Reign" from MercyMe. Check it out!
~ And if you like what you hear... call your local stations and make your requests! ~
(You'd think I was getting some kinda kick-back or something!!
But, I promise, I'm not! I just love these guys! I think they're great... musical talent and 'goofballs'...)

"A Prayer for ALL who will EVER believe

because of their testimony..."

(from Jesus Himself, as written in John 17)

~

The other day, my friend Lydia posted about applying scripture to your life, in a more personal way. I have had this inclination before to do just that and even have Beth's book "Praying God's Word". I've just never really actually sat down and written any out or formed any of my own.

~

However, the "Frazzled Female" study I did last summer (by Cindi Wood) had us do an exercise at the end that Lydia's post had brought back to the forefront of my mind. Heaven knows it wasn't a challenging exercise, in that she just had us fill in the blanks with our names to John 17. But, wow. When you really sit down and claim the words He has spoken on our behalf... you really begin to understand just how much He cares and had long before we ever breathed our first breath! Amazing.

~

Funny enough... after reading Lydia's post just in the last day or two and reminded of that exercise... I, of course, with every good intention tossed to the wayside, went about 'business as usual'. Then this morning, in teaching on unity, Scott spoke these very words from John once again. So, I think I know where to start in my applying scripture to my own life and committing it to memory.

~

Won't you join me?

~

I pray for _______. I am not praying for the world, but for _______ ,whomYou have given me, for _______ is Yours. All I have is Yours and all You have is mine. And glory comes to me through _______. I will remain in the world no longer, but _______ is still in the world and I am coming to You. Holy Father, protect _______ by the power of Your name - the name You gave me - so that (she) may be one in the world and with us.
I am coming to You now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that _______ may have the full measure of my joy within (her)! I have given _______ Your word... My prayer is not that you take _______ out of the world, but that You protect (her) from the evil one. _______ is not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify _______ by the truth; Your word is truth. As You sent me into the world, I have sent _______ into the world. For _______ ,I sanctify myself, that (she) too may be truly sanctified.
...Father, I want _______, whom You have given me, to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory You have given me, because You loved me before the creation of the world.
Righteous Father, though the world does not know You, I know You, and they know that You have sent me. I have made You known to _______ and will continue to make You known in order that the love You have for me may be in _______ and that I myself may be in _______.

Please, lift up the Chapman family.

They need the evidence of God now more than ever before.

http://www.stevencurtischapman.com/

~

With Hope by Steven Curtis Chapman:

~

This is not at all how we thought it was supposed to be

We had so many plans for you, we had so many dreams

And now you’ve gone away and left us with the memories of your smile

And nothing we can say, and nothing we can do

Can take away the pain

The pain of losing you…

But we can cry with hope

We can say goodbye with hope

‘Cause we know our goodbye is not the end, oh no…

And we can grieve with hope

‘Cause we believe with hope

There’s a place, by god’s grace,

There’s a place where we’ll see your face again

We’ll see your face again

And never have I known anything so hard to understand

And never have I questioned more the wisdom of god’s plan

But through the cloud of tears, I see the father’s smile and say, “Well done,”

And I imagine you where you wanted most to be

Seeing all your dreams come true

‘Cause now you’re home and now you’re free

And we can cry with hope

We can say goodbye with hope

‘Cause we know our goodbye is not the end, oh no…

And we can grieve with hope

‘Cause we believe with hope

There’s a place, by god’s grace,

There’s a place where we’ll see your face again

We’ll see your face again

We have this hope as an anchor

‘Cause we believe that everything God promised us is true…

We wait with hope

And we ache with hope

We hold on with hope

We let go with hope

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Phil. 4:8 (NIV)

~

One day last week, Bart (from Mercy Me) posted about "Stuff that Bugs" him. And it received more comments in response to it than any of their previous posts. And you know, it's funny; at first, I had to stop and really think about what 'gets under my skin'. But, once I read the other comments and thought more about it, I was really able to conjure up quite a list of my own! Before too long, I realized all kinds of things that 'bug me' out there!!

~

Goes to show the mind is a terrible thing to waste. And very powerful, especially when it gets off track!

~

I just kept thinking: 'This must be why Paul was so adamate about getting through to us to keep our minds on all that is good and right and pure and noble...' That is, after all, where it all starts. I think, many times, we have a tendancy to find what we're looking for. Whether that be good or bad. We'll find it.

~

So, as entertaining as that post and all the follow-up comments were and as great as it was to 'unload' for a moment and know that I am in good company in my frustrations and common everyday annoyances, I think I'd better keep my mind focused upward and not outward.

~

I don't think it's a coincidence that Paul ended his letter to the Phillipians on this note. I think he made sure to close with this thought. He knew the importance of keeping your mind steadfast. And it certainly still applies to this day and age with all the distractions and everyday frustrations that we experience.

~

And, I know for me personally, the more I focus on God, the bigger He becomes in my life. And, on the flip-side of that, the more I focus on my problems, the greater they become. So, why do I find it so easy to get bogged down in my problems and take my eyes off of Him, just when I need Him the most?

~

Tonight, Gary assured us that being hit with problem after problem is many times just the very blessing that we need to find our clarity and footing (in Him). After all, once you've hit rock bottom, all you can do is look up. Straight up to Him. And He'll be there every time to help you back up and show up in big and mighty ways.

~

In beginning a new great book given to me by a friend of mine last week I was reminded of the story of Habakkuk. And having been directed to the first chapter of this book, I have now taken on Habakkuk 1:5 as my memory verse to hold onto during what's been a very trying week!

After Habakkuk had come to the Lord crying "How long, O Lord, must I call for help? ...But you do not listen!" (vs. 2), this was the Lord's reply:

~

“Look around you; look and be amazed! For I am doing something in your own day, something you wouldn’t believe even if someone told you about it." Hab. 1:5 (NLT)

~

He is doing something in our own day! We may never know of all His future plans or even any of His present-day workings, but we are still able to catch glimpses of His presence wherever we are... all we have to do is 'look around' us. And keep our eyes on Him. Praise God!

*

Disclaimer... This post was in no way an intention to deter anyone from checking out Mercy Me's blog. Quite the opposite. Heaven knows I look at it a hundred times a day just for laughs and to see what I may have missed. Those guys are a riot. I encourage any and all, who like me, need a good laugh now and again!

MILE MARKERS...

God has blessed me with 3 particularly beautiful birthdays in a row now. Today being no exception!
After a stormy, gusty Sunday, today was absolutely perfect. Right at 70 degrees, a light breeze with plenty of sunshine.
I just couldn't see wasting it doing my chores inside all day.
But, where to go? I couldn't decide.
I mulled over about 3 different places I could go locally and finally decided on Turner Lake Park.
Turner Lake is actually the closest to me... only about 10 minutes from where I live. And I LOVE it out there! It just feels so secluded and natural in the midst of so much development in our immediate area.
Three years ago, during a very difficult time, I found much therapy in heading out to Turner Lake to run every day on my way home from work. Never having been much of a runner before, I was more like Forrest Gump "just runnninnng". :) In essence, trying to outrun my problems and feelings... in reality, however, just wearing myself out. (I must say I did sleep rather well those evenings though!!)
And, after about 6-8 weeks of daily running I had set a goal for myself to run so much in some said time (I don't even remember now what it was!). I really didn't know if I could reach that goal by the time summer set in, but it was a nice round figure and sure enough, I did it! On my birthday!! I was so proud of myself.
And it was the last time I ran. :)
Hey. I was doing good to even set the goal! Besides, after that, it got much too hot for me to run. And my knee was not especially fond of my running. And with a crime rate on the rise around here, I just felt like I was pushing my luck more every day. So, I just never went back out there.
That was 3 years ago.
Then today, after a little hemming and hawing... I thought "Oh, what the hay ~ I'll just go out there, and if nothing else, just hang out on a bench and read a book. Maybe take a few pictures."
Well, I no sooner got out there and I was just totally drawn back in. I had forgotten how beautiful it is out there! I started out just looping the lake and the next thing I know, I'm out hoofing it on the paths for the next hour and a half... with some 145 pictures taken on my camera!! ...the fresh air and wooded surroundings breathing new life in me ...and God speaking to my heart.

(press play to view)

Lord, today I set out on my way
To take advantage of such a beautiful day!
I felt as though it was a gift given to me
So how much sweeter to spend it with Thee!
~
You’ve blessed us all with such nature in splendor!
How could we doubt that Your heart should be tender?
For the trees reach up toward the heavens above
And the soft gentle breeze; it whispers Your love
~
It seems they all realize their purpose on earth
To glorify You and proclaim of Your worth!
So why does it seem so much harder for man
To know of his mission; to determine Your plan?
~
I think we must make it harder than it should be
When we focus on self and take our eyes off of Thee
For it is then that the path seems to take a new turn
And we meet more lessons than we’re ready to learn
~
For we don’t know of all that lies ahead
And that which may harm us when we are not led
But You, Father, know the path that we take
And all of the wise choices that we are to make
~
Unlike the path that I took today
Life doesn’t have markers to guide the way
No clear-cut signs to keep us from harm
No maps to show us a way safe and warm
~
But, we do have You, Father Who sent Your own Son
To live for us, die for us, and show how it’s done
To draw near to You and seek to know of Your thoughts
And help to guard us from the ways that we naught
~
Though You have not promised a path free from resistance
You’ve promised to be with us no matter the distance
And should we surrender and not stumble on pride
You promise all things possible with You as our Guide!
~

Father, thank You. For the beautiful day and the chance to spend it with You. Thank You for desiring to keep me on the path You have planned for me and patiently guiding me back to it when I've insisted on my own way. Thank You for being there when the path gets difficult or overwhelming. And thank You for those whose paths have crossed mine.
~Amen.

Fun Mother's Day

dinner at

Blue Willow Inn!

~

I may have the special privilege of dining on Blue Willow food five days a week, but only on occasion do I have the treat of enjoying it with my family!

Tonight, I got to enjoy dining with Jodi, Jeremy and their little ones along with mom and dad. It was a beautiful spring night and, obviously with the children there, a very entertaining evening as well!

Emery ate all the beans he could get a hold of ('green' and 'brown').

And Savannah, after eating some grapes and rolls just decided on a heaping help of cool whip and cherry pie filling to top it all off!

Sounds good to me, Girl!

( I mean really... why beat around the bush when you can just get right down to the real business at hand?)

~

Happy Mother's Day

to all you Moms

out there!

Convicted and just worn 'flat-out'

out here in the 'desert'

~

Sweet Chanda, over at 'Thursday's Child' threw out the invitation the other day to her fellow bloggers to share what God's been doing in our lives. What's He been saying? teaching? repeating?... And I just sat and thought: "You know, I have gotten so far away from Him, I don't have a clue what He's wanting to tell me right now."

*

But, I do feel like He's trying to bring me back to Him. And, of course, I insist on it being done the hard way. With having to say good-bye to my Grandmother (for what will most likely be the last time) just last night. Certain tensions at work that I just have a hard time 'shaking'. Losing a much loved senior pastor at church. Countless compounding financial concerns. And now an impending colonoscopy to see what all I've done to my gut in worrying about everything else... What else can I do at this point but pray!

*

I had already felt that I had drifted away from Him. But, now it just feels like I am caught up in this unbelievable snowball effect that I don't know which way's up and where to go from here. AGHH!

*

But, after much prayer and many tears last night (and even more choked back in church this morning) I felt Him speaking to me once again.

*

When Gary had shared with us that God had been revealing to him many of the fears that had a grip on him - I was reminded that I'm not alone in my struggles.

*

And when Gary ended by saying "He loves us. He really does. He even gave up His one and only Son to die for us. We can trust Him and know that He loves us." - I was reminded that He's on my side. Not against me.

*

Then, when Scott preached, he said "Go with what you know. Don't speculate with all the 'what if's and 'why's... Those almost always head you 'south' in your spirit." - I was reminded to focus on what's most important and indisputable, which is: God is God. And I am not. He never changes. He made me and loves me very much and has a purpose and a plan for my life.

*

And as Scott ended very passionately about what Jesus is to us and wants to be in our lives - I was reminded that to forge ahead in faith (though it will be difficult at times) would be worth every step of the way.

~

"Hope is to hear the music of tomorrow.

Faith is the courage to dance to it today." (unknown)

~

2008 Prayer for Our Nation

~

Dr. Ravi Zacharias

~

2008 Honorary Chairman, National Day of Prayer Task Force

~

Holy Father, in a world where so many are hungry,

You have given us food in abundance;

*

In a world where so many are hurting,

You offer to bind up our wounds;

*

In a world where so many are lonely,

You offer friendship to every heart;

*

In a world longing for peace,

You offer hope.

*

Yet, we are so stubborn and resistant.

Have mercy upon us, Lord.

*

Our nation is at a crossroads this year;

we look to you to be our strength and shield.

*

Please give us the guidance to elect one who will honor you and to respond to the wisdom from above so that our hope may be renewed and our blessings be treasured.

*

In God's holy name.

Bringing in the Spring

with the 'Little Ones'...

(just click 'play' below to view...)

* For more Spring pictures, check out Jodi's collection *

_________________________________

St. Augustine once preached a sermon in which he proposed a kind of self-test to see if we truly love God.

~

Suppose God proposed to you a deal and said:

“I will give you anything you want.

You can possess the whole world.

Nothing will be impossible for you.

Nothing will be a sin; nothing forbidden.

You will never die, never have pain,

never have anything you do not want

and always have anything you do want –

except one thing;

you will never see my face.”

~
Augustine closed with a question:

Did a chill rise in your hearts, when you read the words, “you will never see my face”?

That chill is the most precious thing in you;

for that is the pure love of God.

_________________________________

Thank you to Tracy, who was kind enough to share this quote with me after having heard her tell it at our Bloom conference last month. It had touched me and I hope it touches some of you as well!

$46.74 ~

... that's all I'm sayin'.

Sunday Blessed Sunday

~

For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day.

Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. (Exodus 20:11 -NIV)

It brings me comfort to know that even God took a day of rest.

With it being God, I'm doubtful that He actually needed that day of rest. After all, He is the all-powerful God who simply just spoke things like light into existence and flung the stars off His fingertips into the vast expanse of the universe.

So, maybe it was just as an example to us? So that we may see that it is wise to stop every now and again to 'reconnect' and 'recharge'.

But, then I wonder if He just couldn't pass up on the opportunity to pause, for just a moment, to truly appreciate all that He had accomplished in those preceding six days. To really revel in the 'fruits of His labor'. You think maybe He even surprised Himself with all He created? : ) Like: "Wow. I know what I had pictured in my mind, but I had no idea how amazing it would be!"

And, I can't help but notice, that He didn't take the rest until after He made man. Do You think He was just busting at the seams, waiting to share in it with someone? Like: "Look! Look! Look! Look what I did over there! ... Look at what I created here! ... And can you believe how well that turned out up there?!?"

Then, He would rest.

And a day like today, with the warm sun and light breeze, right at about 70, I feel as though He must've started with Spring. Or, maybe Spring is given to us now, as a reminder of His great creation.

Birds singing.
Flowers budding.
Everything just coming back to life.
Perhaps just a glimpse into Eden.
(Before all hell breaks loose in the smothering heat of summer!!)

And, the icing on the cake with a day like today?

Someone to share in it with you!

~

Father, thank You for the wonderful reminders of Your majesty, Your power and Your love for us. And thank You for loved ones to share in Your creation with. Amen.

(Somewhat) Formal Introductions...

So, I've been found out.

In passing along my prayer request the other day, it got out that I... B L O G. (gasp!)

Yes, up until now (what, two years later?) I've been more or less, a 'closet blogger'. Not that I'm ashamed of anything I've had to say... just didn't really feel as though it was all that intriguing.

But, now I have had a couple of sweet friends from church inquiring about the whole 'blog thing' and am trying to reel them in. I won't press Missy about it too much (not yet anyway), but I think we could win over Donna. And I think we could use her blog for some big-time comic relief. :)

So, I was just thinking... maybe if I were to just 'introduce' her to the fellow bloggers in my little circle of the blogosphere, maybe she'd be more drawn in.

Let's give it a try~

Beth Moore - now, obviously, she's not exactly in my 'realm', but she's just amazing and I have to check in on what she has to say on a regular basis.

Jennifer - one of the coolest, most inspiring Christian young women I know. Met her in the "Daniel" bible study. Was SOO excited to see she was a fellow 'closet blogger', but she hasn't written anything since! (Hmmm... another one we need to work on...) :)

Nate and Tricia - I don't know them personally, but WOW. What an inspiration. Nate's had over 3 million hits on his blog now, from all over the world. Such a powerful story there.

Heather - another one I don't know personally, but another amazing young woman that a lot of bloggers have come to follow the story of. Has had brain surgery for treatment for cancer and it's just the story of all her ups and downs. Very real and transparent.

Shana - I don't even know how she found my blog? But, a very sweet girl who actually doesn't live far from here and I feel as though I know her! Her greatest passion (and challenge right now) is getting to adopt her little Malley. But, she's got a sweet little boy and girl at home already and they have quite a testimony as well.

Lyndy - Another local girl that I have not met personally, but have enjoyed getting to know. She's been through a lot to get to where she is today and is stronger and wiser for it and always seems to encourage me.

Jodi - I know her pretty well. I've known her for going on 34 years now. She's my sister and she's actually the reason I blog. Went to comment on her blog and before I knew it, I had one of my own, wondering "What do I write on this thing???" :) You'll get to know my niece and nephew on hers.

Dianne - She was my very first commenter that I didn't know!! :) Very sweet, and actually, another local girl! She shares great nuggets with us and you'll find a lot about her two beautiful nieces on hers.

Michelle - I've known Michelle for what, about 8 years or more now? She worked with me at the gift shop and we've stayed good friends. Come to think of it, here's another one who's fallen behind in her blogging...

Kelli - I don't know her, but I just found her blog through a fund-raising invite from church and all I can say is WOW. They have been through countless trials!! And what a strong spirit.

Michele - A friend of my sister's from her church. But, through ballet practices and women's conferences and most especially the blog, I have come to count her as a friend of mine as well.

Stephanie - My sister had actually already found this wonderful blog, but I had not realized it until I found her on Beth's blog. She actually lives not far away either and what a great source of inspiration!

Lydia - Another one I was so excited to learn had taken up blogging, but then hasn't blogged anymore? I hope she takes it back up. I met Lydia 3 years ago and she is such an amazing Christian example. I know she'd have plenty of great thoughts to share.

Joanne - Another one, I don't how she found my blog, but I'm glad she did. She's on the other side of the country, but you feel like she's right next door. Sweet. Humble. Loving wife and mother. And great writer.

Kenzie - I don't really know her, but came across her blog through 'Chelle's and she is an amazing girl. Her heart's been torn apart in losing a baby this year, but she is definitely working with God to turn it all for good. Sweet girl.

Chanda - I just found her blog on Joanne's prompting a month or so ago. And oh-my-gosh! What an amazing writer! I love to read her blog, just to get inspired and see what she has to say next!

Mom - Well, another one I've known for about 34 years now. And Jodi and I actually forced the whole blog thing on her, because she's always just had a knack for writing and is never one to hold back any thoughts! :)

'Chelle - Another one I'm not sure how paths crossed? Perhaps through Joanne? Or maybe Michele? But, she's a sweet girl who's had her share of trials, too. Always fun to see what she has to say and she has great music, too. :)

Pioneer Woman - (I can't even think of her name!) But, she has amazing recipes that she shares and has just a one-of-a-kind way of showing them! Talented and hilarious. With quite a story of how she's ended up where she is today, cooking for cowboys out on the range.

Mercy Me - Another good example of why more guys should blog. It's so funny. Just silly guy humor kind of stuff, but so entertaining (and they're usually not even singing!).

Sheila Walsh - My favorite of the Women of Faith speakers. Doesn't post a whole lot, but it's usually pretty good when she does.


So, Donna, did you get all that?? :)
And these are just the blogs I keep up with! Imagine how many more are out there!
And you could be one of them!!

(You know you want to...) BFF! ;)

The Power of "We"

Wow. Does anyone else feel like believers are under particular attack right now?

After having a great day all day yesterday (even having to work my usual day off), I found myself coming up on 11:00 this morning just thinking: "Okay... what just happened?" Things just got off-kilter. Know what I mean?

So, I pressed through the day, making the most of it still wondering: "How did today turn out so different from yesterday? What changed?"

And with a heavy heart and (of course) anxious mind, I got home and logged on to read all my favorite blogs. And I quickly realized that I am certainly not alone in the struggle! So many concerns and needs and hurts and questions.

So, I went over to LPM for some encouragement to listen to Beth's lesson on Romans 8:28. You know the one. We all know it. C'mon, say it with me...

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."

Sounds pretty good, huh.
But, honestly, how many of us truly know that we know that we know this in our hearts as well as our minds? Especially on those difficult days.

Just as I was feeling pretty convicted about not feeling it 100% after the day I'd had, Beth reassured that many times it is easy to doubt and waver when going it alone. But, reminded us of the 'little' word "we" that starts out that scripture. "We". The family of believers. "We". Each of us on respective journeys of our own. "We". All connected through one incredibly strong thread of belief. "We".

Now, I don't know if you're feeling as blessed by that as I am, but my first thought was of all the amazing people I've met through this blog and who have encouraged as well as inspired me. And all the wonderfully supportive ladies I've had the pleasure of getting to know through bible studies at church.

One could say it all boils down to the old adage: "misery loves company", but for Christians it's so much more than that. It's a body, working together as one. All with a common purpose. A common drive. And One Heavenly Father, Who lovingly embraces that body through each and every step to be sure that all the craziness that life brings along the way turns out for good, because we love Him (despite the pain and confusion).

Thank You, Father for blessing me with such an awesome "we".

Amen.

Prayer Request

Today, I worked with my dear friend, Lynn. Just as I have for most every Saturday over the last 3 years. And I must say, that when she first came on board, I had no idea the impact that girl would make on my life, as well as all the others around us. She is such an inspiration. The absolute 'diamond in the rough'. We all stand back amazed that such a gem has come out of such a mess. And she has an absolutely unbreakable spirit and unshakable faith. Such simple, yet to-the-core faith that I am so thankful to get to witness on a regular basis. Truly a one-of-a-kind girl and a blessing without a doubt.
That's how we all feel about Lynn.
And that's why it's so hard for us to comprehend her current 'situation'.
See, Lynn has taken care of her family for years. She's lived with her father and step-mother, younger brother, and (half of the time) her sister with her four children (under the age of 5). As well as her own son, Layne. She's fed them all, taken care of the house, and worked to help support them. Which is great. But, it's always upset us that they've taken such advantage of her. See, generally, step-mom is the only other one in the household who worked a regular job. So, it was practically all on our Lynn. Finances. Housekeeping. Meals. Childcare. You name it. She's also the most emotionally stable, so they all depend on her for that support as well. She even got them all in church in the last year or so!
Well, as of October, '07, she finally found a WONDERFUL fellow named Matt. And they hit it off immediately. We were so happy for her!! Sweet guy who just adores her and Layne and came into that mess, lending the same gentle, giving spirit as she had all those years. He bought them appliances and even a truck for dad. He built on a room to their house, to make more room for all the people living there. Neither one with even so much as a complaint.
Then, they got married in February of this year, and just got all good and settled in their little house (all to themselves- YAY!) and starting a life of their own. None of them could be any happier.
Except for the family she 'left behind' to start that new life. After dad had already wounded her by actually kicking her out of the house before they were actually ready (Layne still needed to finish out school) and they had completely stopped speaking to her. Now, they actually had the audacity to call up the guy who is most likely Layne's real father (from 9 years ago) and are prodding him to fight Lynn for 'rights'. A guy who has never cared anything about Lynn or Layne and still doesn't seem to as far as she can tell. He has a family of his own now and it would just further destroy all the families involved. But, most of all our sweet Lynn and her new tender-hearted Matt. Both of whom have done nothing short of keeping them all on their feet with giving hearts and wonderful attitudes.
Her parents are just that bitter and scared now without her, that they are willing to do anything to get her back, even if it means sabatoging her dreams come true.
The guy is supposed to call her sometime this week to discuss the blood tests... and she just asked for prayer that this would all be 'dropped' and that they won't have to go through all this. As no good could come of it at this point, at all.
So, if you all could just keep my sweet Lynn in your prayers, that she and Matt would only become stronger together through this struggle and that her parents would find it in their hearts to look past their own struggles to see her happiness and share in that happiness instead. Or, if it does come down to contesting rights, that she would find sound counsel to help them through it all.
Thank you so much. I know she would greatly appreciate all the prayers she can get right now.

Count Your Blessings
~

Count your Blessings
Instead of your Crosses

Count your Gains
Instead of your Losses

Count your Joys

Instead of your Woes

Count your Friends

Instead of your Foes

Count your Smiles
Instead of your Tears

Count your Courage
Instead of your Fears

Count your Full Years
Instead of your Lean

Count your Kind Deeds
Instead of your Mean

Count your Health
Instead of your Wealth

Count on GOD
Instead of Yourself


* I came across this sweet reminder in one of our sales catalogs the other day at work and just thought I'd share it with y'all. So, I can't take credit for the poetry... however, the sweet (albeit off-center) picture of the beautiful water lily is one of my own!! Enjoy! *