All Things New

In a few hours we will usher in the year 2010. Unbelievable. I can well remember all the hubbub about going into 2000, the scares and the unknown of it all. We blinked our eyes, and here it is 2010 already!

I think I need a page makeover. I do love roses but everytime I open it - I want to gag. It is 2010 after all - time for a new page.

Our family is continually new. New members arrived in 2009, Amelia and Millie...

I am reminded that God instructs us to re-new our minds daily. Growing spiritually is a continual process of "new" - how awesome is that. 

So, I'll be on the lookout for a new look for this page. Of course, Jill has to help me accomplish it. Somehow, I'm never able to get it all to work. I think it's something to do with age, which we will not discuss right now.

Happy New Year to everyone in blogland!

Finally!

I have tried to write something for the past 2 weeks...to no avail. Everything sounded quite dry and boring. I haven't done much besides bake and make goodies for Christmas. Some were a hit and many were not touched. But tonight, I have a picture! So, I will post it and show you what I've done in the past little bit.

From the Lick the Bowl food blog, I got a simple recipe for Cinnamon Rolls. They are quite delicious. Here they are!

I'm Addicted

I confess - if I haven't before ( I can't remember honestly) - I am addicted to recipes. I love to look at recipes, to read recipes, to think about what they might taste like...I'm addicted. I like to try new recipes - that's the fun...seeing what's on the page appear in front of you. When it looks just like the picture - Yay! I rarely taste these creations, so I'm dependent on the feedback of others to determine if it's really tasty or not. I have 100's upon 100's of cookbooks, cooking magazines, printed sheets, torn out pages, recipes cards and handwritten sheets. I could never begin to make them all in my lifetime. Yet, I still see a recipe and I want to stop and read it, examine it - think about how easy or difficult it would be to make. I keep them by my chair in the living room and when I'm free, that's where you will find me...with my recipes. I have recently discovered a new avenue to feed this addiction - food blogs. Oh my goodness! There, I can often see it created step by step - and view the finished product and then read what the blogger world has to say about it! I especially love the holidays as they are an excuse to try recipes I've been admiring. I enjoy reading all types of recipes, but desserts and breads are my favorites. My girls will tell you, I rarely make a recipe exactly as written. Invariably, there is either some ingredient I do not care for, or do not have - so I adjust, leave it out, or use something else! Here's one recipe I tried last week - I did actually taste this one and it's yummy for the Christmas season: Cranberry & Turkey Finger Sandwiches (taken from Taste of the South and adapted, of course!) Bread, with crusts removed (wheat or white, your preference) Sliced Turkey Cranberry Spread (I was making lots for a reception, so I mixed 1 can of wholeberry cranberry sauce with 8 oz. softenend cream cheese - you can adjust this amount and to your own taste) Fresh baby spinach Simply make a sandwich by spreading each bread slice with the cranberry spread - add turkey and pieces of spinach - put together and cut in half diagonally. They are beautiful and tasty. I've always wanted to say this: Bon Appetite! LOL!

Once upon a Holy Night

Just thought I'd share the project I've been most consumed with for the past month. Our church presented A Walk through Bethlehem this year for the past 3 nights. I can't begin to tell you how hard our people have worked or the passion they poured into every detail. We got to share the gospel through the birth of Christ with 477 people. "Mary" sang Once upon a Holy Night" 19 times and every time my heart was filled and my eyes overflowed. I will post a few pictures...and I hope you will never lose the wonder of our Savior becoming man and being born in a stable...in order to die on a cross in our place. Glory! Hallelujah!

33 Years Ago

33 years ago today...God gave us Jill Amelyn. What a blessing she continues to be in our lives. This morning we called to sing Happy Birthday to her. This is becoming our birthday tradition - we recently decided.

This year God gave Jill - Amelia Joy - after years of infertility.

What a good mommy she is!

Happy Birthday, Sweet Pillie! I love you!

Sweet Hubby

Yesterday, I came home to these:

I asked, "What are these for?" (smile) Jay said, "I saw them and realized it's been a long time since I brought you flowers for no reason."

My sweet, sweet hubby.

You know God is like that. He gives us blessings all the time (like a husband who brings flowers) for no reason, except that He is good.

Thank you, Jay, for the beautiful flowers and the love behind them.

Thank you, Father, for a loving husband and all the blessings you give me every day!

I am so blessed...

My heart overflows today - I am so blessed! We have a new granddaughter who is so precious - mom and baby are doing quite well. My daughter, Joy, is recovering from her tonsillectomy (quite an ordeal for an adult). Our son and his wife will be welcoming another granddaughter on Monday morning - we are in great anticipation! Even though we've had unexpected arrivals, surgery, car troubles, and heartache in our family in the past 2 weeks, I am so blessed. I got to spend this time with my children and grandchildren. I got to take care of them, just a little - serve and minister to them. I got to watch my 1 year granddaughter toddle around - she's so funny. I got to play with my almost 2 year old grandson, I believe the busiest person God ever made. I got to discuss theology with one of my sons, as he struggled with an important decision. I got to watch my daughter-in-law create a floor to ceiling letter on the wall in our newest granddaughter's room - amazing. And now, I'm getting to help plan my father's 80th birthday celebration. Isn't God wonderful to give us families? It is sometimes hard to watch our children and grandchildren grow and become all that God wants them to be. They have to struggle and even go through things that hurt them. I want to fix it all - take it all away! Instead, I have to lift them up to my dear Heavenly Father and trust them into His care. I know He is good - He never makes mistakes (like I do) - He has a wonderful plan for their lives and He will fulfill it! Our church family goes through the same troubles and struggles. We get to pray for and minister to them as well. It is just as difficult to watch our church family go through the things God allows, but I know He is working His plan in their lives. Presently, we are planning and preparing a living nativity called, "A Walk through Bethlehem." Our people are so excited and so busy preparing costumes and scenery and music. What a joy to see each one using their gifts and skills for Him! I am SO blessed...

Home again, Home again

I am home again - for a little while. Have spent the past week trying to care for two of my daughters - one with a newborn and one having a tonsillectomy. I'm so thankful to be able to try to do this. Many times we wonder why we are where we are - why we are in the place we are in. We eventually realize that our Heavenly Father knew long ago what we would need at this particular point in time. There is no way we can know these things - we only have to trust. It's good to know He is Faithful and Trustworthy - He never fails - He's never late. Thank you, Father!

Speechless

My newest granddaughter - who arrived at 1:01 a.m. on October 22 - 5 lbs., 2 oz. I can't recall when I've been so scared. It is never easy to watch your daughter labor to give birth - but when her very life is in danger...it is near torture. We've spent the past 35 weeks being continually amazed that God chose to bless the in-vitro process and bless Jill and Alex with a baby. Now that we can see her and touch her - we are ...speechless. Now that the danger is past and mother and daughter are both doing well, we are...speechless. "Be still and know...that I AM GOD."

Rainy Days and Tuesdays

Have I mentioned that I love dark, cloudy days? I know - I'm wierd! It's been raining for many days, off and on. I know our farmers need it to dry out so they can harvest the soybeans and cotton - maybe even still some rice. They are probably not enjoying these rainy days. So, I will do it! This is my last day in the office this week. I've never understood folks' dislike of Mondays - what's the difference? This is the day that the Lord has made - we will rejoice and be glad in it. That's enough preaching. I get to go tomorrow to help my daughters, which means spending time with them. This equals lots of laughter and probably a few tears (we can't share anything without crying). I will miss my hubby and I hate to leave him home alone, but he will be coming on Friday. Rainy days and Tuesdays - NEVER get me down.

Happy Birthday, Chris

Today is the birthday of my firstborn - Christopher Grady. I was a very young mother who had no idea what she was doing! I always tell first-time parents, "You are about to love someone more than you ever imagined possible." Happy Birthday, Son! You have brought nothing but joy into my life since I first held you in my arms. I thank God for sending you to me and I pray you will continue to grow in the Lord, becoming all He has planned for you to be.

It's Worth It!

Parenting is hard work. It takes consistency. I think that's what makes it so difficult. We don't always feel like being consistent. We don't always have the guts to do the tough things. It is so hard to live what you teach. But to all you parents out there - hang in there - it's worth it! Twice this year, I've gotten to attend Living Proof Live with my daughters. In March, with Jill and yesterday & today, with Joy. Both times, I got to share the experience of growing spiritually, as women - as well as mother/daughter. I got to look into my daughters' eyes, and share the life we have in Jesus Christ; to sing and praise and cry; to speak God's truths to each other. What an amazing blessing! I am nothing - it is all Christ. God has been faithful to my family. He is a great God, who blesses those who love Him and obey Him with all spiritual blessings. I can say from experience - don't quit! Teach your children to know Him and to love Him. Be consistent. Do the tough job of parenting. It's worth it!

Words

We just started our fall Bible study at church. We are studying Me, Myself and Lies by Jennifer Rothschild - excellent! Words are so important, aren't they? We think words and we speak words and we can write words. We can't be too careful with our words. The old adage, "Sticks and stones may hurt my bones, but words can never hurt me" is a lie. Words hurt. Words wound. Many carry words in their heads that they heard years and years ago. Conversely, words can also heal - bring life and joy and encourage! My heart's desire is to speak wise words and kind words. Sometimes though, I speak without thinking, or I speak when I should be silent. Sometimes, I speak with kind intentions and my words still cause hurt. For this, I am very sorry. "Lord, let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable to You, my strength and my Redeemer."

Expectations...Part Dos

A few weeks ago, I shared my vision and dreams of teaching English as a Second Language to the Hispanic ladies at our Hispanic ministry. 4 women committed to attend. Last Thursday night was the first class. You can't imagine my surprise when Bro. Max Gusman, our associational Hispanic minister, arrived with his workbook, ready for class! Instead of 4, I had 8 students and by the end of class,2 more had come in. My expectations were exceeded! What a fun time we had! What a desire they have to be able to communicate with us. This is definitely expectations, part "dos" (two). Lord, you are so good!!!!

Random Thoughts

Jay and I have been made aware this past year how much MORE we pray for our children now - than ever before. Seems there is always so much to trust God for - to turn over to Him. More people involved: spouses and grandchildren. Our grandson, Jackson, is one funny kid. Fearless when it comes to riding his turtle off a small trampoline, or jumping in a pool, or stepping off a step. But terrified of child-sized carolers. (long story) Some days, I feel like I'm still 18 - others, I doubt I'll make it to 65... Mothering is the most wonderful thing I've ever done - I am blessed every single day! Rick Warren says something about life runnning along 2 tracks: there is always something good going on and there is always something bad. I'm beginning to agree with him! While I have regrets and things I'd like to "do over" - I am continually amazed at this journey I've been on for almost 58 years. It's been quite a ride. I ask Jay all the time, "why us?" "Why did God allow us to do this or that, or allow us to hear this preacher or that, or be exposed to the things we've had the privilege to learn?" I will so enjoy asking the Lord all these questions. Randy Alcorn in his book, Deadline (read if you haven't!), proposes the idea that our first experience in heaven will be going back over our life and seeing all the things we can't see right now (in the physical realm) and understanding what God was doing, or what He wanted us to do, etc. I am looking so forward to that. Random thoughts...

The New Me

Well, this is the new me. Due to health issues earlier this year, I had to change - yuck! I now have a new diet with new portion sizes. But, it has worked - praise the Lord! Good health now. Jill just sent me this new photo and I thought, "Well! I really don't look so bad!" Then I discovered she has new editing software and that she had touched me up - removed wrinkles (just a couple) - gave me a little blush and powder. Laughing out loud! See what happens when we are vain? In thinking about the new me - I realized I became the "new" me 37 years ago - when I realized I was lost and trusted Jesus Christ to come into my life. As I study His Word,die to self, and yield to His Spirit - I gradually become even more "new" - day by day. Double chin aside...I like the new me. Oh, I fail - every day - almost every hour. But I'm not who I used to be...and I'm not who I will be when I see Him face to face. Thank You, Jesus.

Tears

I'm a bawlbag. I cry easily - I cry at any thing that is touching. My grandsons recently watched the Hannah Montana Movie, and their comments were all about whether Granny would be crying at this point or that. And of course - they were right! I cry over commercials, Hallmark cards, touching stories - and I have trained my daughters well. We can't share much of anything without tears! They are not sad tears - they are just how we express ourselves. We can be laughing - and shedding tears at the same time! Tears release some sort of healing power - but can also be exhausting! There's another amazing thing about tears - we never run out of them - we never seem to run dry. I am glad God gave us the gift of tears.

Expectations

Lately, I've been thinking about expectations. Have you ever considered how our expectations color our thinking, our happiness and our lives, to some degree? Sometimes our expectations are totally unrealistic, I mean, through the roof! What happens when these expectations are not realized? We may end up disheartened, disillusioned, even depressed. When our high expectations are not met, we can begin to see everything in a negative light - nothing's good or right. Is that true? More than likely - NOT. Conversely, when my expectations are too low, I am unmotivated and end up not even realizing what could have been. Expectations. How in the world do we keep them exactly where they need to be? Just as with everything else in our life - we can only keep them right with God's help. The Word of God speaks to our expectations. Proverbs 10:28 says: "The hope (expectation) of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish." God knows our thoughts, our motives, our secret desires. If our expectations are centered in Him, and given by Him - they will result in gladness, whatever the outcome. If they are centered in self, in pride, or whatever motive there might be - they will perish. Recently, I got to take ESL training. I have prayed that God would open the door to use me in some way to impact those in our town who do not speak English. My expectations were positive, I think not too high, but also not low. As of today, I have 4 prospective students - Praise the Lord! I am thrilled and I am terrified. I am dependent on Him to fill me and use me. I will let you know how my expectations turn out from here. But right now - my expectations re: this endeavor have resulted in gladness. Expectations. Consider yours...

You never stop...

being a momma. You young mothers - get ready. This is a job for life. I'm sure you've already figured that out, (smile). Those little ones that come forth from your body have a tight grip on your heart. My children are grown...married...most are parents or about to be parents. Yet, I find myself praying for them now more than ever. I find myself ready to do whatever they need as much as I am able. My heart is still engaged as strongly as ever! The relationship changes...they are now my best friends as well as my children. But they still call when they have questions, hurts, needs - or joys to share. What a joy! What an awesome responsibility. You never stop...being a momma.

Use Me!

Recently,God has allowed me to participate in training and to hear an awesome message on evangelism. The result? My prayer is increasingly becoming - "Use ME, Lord!" I have so many ideas that run through my mind - I believe they come from Him. I am not a particularly creative person - but my God is! Yesterday, I got to spend some time with my parents, an aunt and a cousin(who I do not know well). I thought I would come on home, and my cousin said, "Don't leave! I want to talk to you!" I thought (why would she want to talk to me - she doesn't really know me). After awhile, she asked to see pictures of my family - and I went online to show my facebook photos. She began to share about her son and her daughter - and became emotional. She has raised her children in church - "done her best" so to speak. But they are going through "stuff". I began to share testimony of things in our lives and how God has worked. I hugged her and encouraged her. After a bit, she said, "See? This is why I needed to talk to you!" I had preconceived notions of how God would or could use me. No, I didn't lead anyone to the Lord. I didn't do some great feat. I only encouraged and exhorted a sister to not give up - to keep loving and praying and trusting. I believe God used me! Praise His Name!!!!

Training, Training...

I believe I have had more training in the past 10 years than anyone ought to be allowed to have. I have this desire to know about things - to know how to do things. I have learned how to be a clown, how to make balloon animals, how to do hands of praise and "sticks", puppets, witness training, mentoring, women's ministry training - oh I could go on and on. This week, I completed one more. I am now certified to teach English as a Second Language. I am praying and excited to see what doors God is going to open for me to do this! For 5 weeks, I got to teach the children at our Hispanic Ministry - and I fell in love with those 10 little girls! Their mothers speak no English - there may be people from other countries here as well. I wish I had some pictures - this is rather blah to look at - but to read, ah, that's another matter! God is working and He is going to allow me to partner with him. Pray that I'll be able to start ESL class this September!

Twists and Turns

Do you ever look back over your life? I know some of you are in the busy, busy time of life; raising children, building careers and hopefully gaining new and exciting insight into our loving Savior and everlasting God! Maybe you haven't lived quite long enough to really - look back. Lately, Jay and I often reminisce and "look back". I guess it just comes with age. We laugh at most things. We truly were so young and stupid at times. Youth has no fear. Youth is invincible. And most of the time, I can say - I think I handled all that craziness pretty well! There are a few times, I wish I could have a "do-over" or I hang my head in shame and regret. But ultimately - it is all those twists and turns of life that make me who I am right now. The hard times have taught me and refined me. The glorious times have given me optimism and hope. The memories give me times to reflect, to be reminded, to enjoy all over again! What a boring life this would be - if it were all flat, the same - no twists or turns.

It's true...

It's true, I am getting older. The proof? I can no longer "sleep in". I now wake anywhere from 4:15 - 6:30 a.m. It was 4:15 this morning. My old favorite time to rise was 7:00 or 7:30. I evidently need less sleep now in my aging years. I rarely nap anymore - it's amazing! On the flip side of this change...I am loving my early time alone, well not alone-alone, but alone with my Lord. I am loving not only quality uninterrupted time in His Word and in prayer...but quantity of time, because I am waking up so early! I recommend to all the study, "Proving Us Genuine", taught by Beth Moore online at http://www.oneplace.com/ - I love 1 & 2 Peter - and this study is challenging me and teaching me. I want to be genuine - and pleasing to my Lord! Another benefit of this quiet early time - is lots of time to pray. Jay and I are finding as we age -our children are aging too (shhh, they don't know it yet) and we find ourselves praying for them, not less - but more than ever! It's true...you never stop being a parent. There is no place to stop praying and guiding (when asked). I find myself realizing more than ever, I'm still "the Momma". Glory! Thank You, Lord, for placing these precious people in our life for all eternity. Thank You, for allowing us to partner with You in what You are doing in their lives. What? Yes, it's true. Read the scriptures and see how often God speaks to us regarding our children, and our children's children. It is God's plan for families to grow together, for grandparents to impact their grandchildren and even great-grandchildren. Thank You, for placing grandchildren in our family. This week, my eldest granddaughter is coming to stay with us for a few days. I am so looking forward to loving on her and investing in her life. It is way past due. Thank You, Lord, for a part-time job - giving me more time for my family and friends. It's true...I am aging. I'm older than I've ever been! My life keeps changing...but God is still working in all our lives - completing His plan for the Weavers - conforming us to the image of His Son, Jesus Christ. Even in the trials and challenges,what a privilege and blessing and joy! While there are a few negatives to aging (I won't go into them here - no profit), it's true...God is good and His mercy does endure to all generations!

Like no other...

Today I've been meditating - thinking about the journey my daughter and son-in-law, Jill and Alex, have been traveling. 3 years or so ago, they decided it was time to start their family. They had no idea how long or how emotional a journey it would be. None of us had any idea that the struggle with infertility is filled with highs and lows - joys and sorrows - ups and downs - hope and despair. We praise God every day that He chose to bless them now and that they are joyously anticipating the arrival of their little girl in November! I've been mulling over the fact that there have been other little ones created during this process that did not survive. I am fully persuaded these little ones await their Mom and Dad (Jill and Alex) in heaven. I am also fully convinced they were unique individuals, with characteristics and qualities that make them absolutely like no other person who ever was or ever will be. This brought me to a very wonderful conclusion: I can't publish her name, but our baby girl who will arrive in a very few months, could never have been conceived at any other time - she is exactly who God chose to join the family - to bless Jill and Alex's home. I cannot know the mind of God, but for whatever reason - this is the person He chose to entrust to them. She is a unique individual like no other. How awesome!

Girls! Girls! Girls!

It is official - we are having 2 grand-daughters in November! These precious girls are predicted to arrive 5 days apart and we are in great anticipation. Now, the girls will outnumber the boys although I am not sure what that really means - probably nothing. LOL! Children are the heritage of the Lord - they are our inheritance! Children are eternal beings - and God entrusts them to us, to raise them to know and serve Him. What an awesome privilege and partnership. God bless these parents - my children. We are so blessed and so excited! Praise You, Lord God

The expectant moms and dads:

Jill and Alex

!

Sara and Cary

Waking Moments

I don't know about you - but in the morning, my mind wakes first - before I open my eyes or even start to get out of bed. Sounds weird, I know. In that waking moment, my mind becomes alert - and it is then, in that quiet stillness - that I most often hear God speak to me. Not every morning, but usually when He needs to get my attention about something. This morning, in that waking moment, God said, "It's not about you." Immediately, other thoughts rushed in, and I thought, "I have to get up and write all of this down, or I won't remember!" So, I did. I recently posted about this very same topic, It's not about me. This morning, God reminded me of a recent evening, when I was wallowing in my feelings. I was NOT thinking scriptural truths - but simply letting my feelings and those destructive voices that come from the enemy, fill my mind. I began to think I cannot do the things God has called me to do. In a very short time, I realized - these thoughts are not from the Holy Spirit! I began to speak the Word to my heart and soul. While I stopped wallowing, the insecurity of it all has stayed with me somewhat. In my waking moment, God showed me that every time I speak truth - I will almost immediately be confronted with living this truth in reality, in my life. It's like a living object lesson. It's easy to say it's not about me - it's another thing to keep my mind fixed on Christ and filled with the truth of the Word. I believe God will always allow me to be confronted, to be tried - to be proven genuine, or not. With His simple reminder, "it's not about you," God reminded me I am to walk by faith, believing what He says - not by my feelings. Faith vs Feelings - that is the choice I must consciously make day in and day out, and all the time in between! Feelings make it all about me. God's Word makes it all about Him. I feel like a slow learner. Next time, I pray I will immediately stop those feelings and thoughts, before I can think on them one second! Oh yes, I am sure there will be another battle. "Lord, never stop proving me, refining me - until I am a genuine reflection of Jesus Christ."

The Journey

I am on a journey. No, not down the road, or to the store - or even across the state to see my beloved children and grandchildren, or my parents. I am on a journey through this thing we call - LIFE. This journey isn't a mere jaunt, or a day-trip - it's definitely not a vacation! It's a life-long trek. God is leading me along on this journey. He is continually trying to teach me, change me - conform me to the image of His Son - Jesus. What are His tools? LIFE. He uses the joys, troubles, trials, people, everything in my life - all of which He allows to come my way. Nothing can come my way, unless He allows it, because I belong to Him. Whenever I think I've learned it all, I've got it down "pat", He allows something to come along that wakes me up! He shows me - "Girl, you've got a long way to go yet." I almost can see Him smile and shake His head - or shake His head sadly in disappointment. This past week, while sharing with a dear sister God has placed in my life, was one of those times. I've been struggling with something I believe I'm supposed to do for Him. But I've been waiting for a flash of light - a sign in the sky - a voice from heaven! My sweet friend, not knowing God was using her, said - "We have to step out in faith - get out of the boat." Well, I did see a flash of light - the truth. I starting laughing - I felt like I was starting all over in this journey. Faith! Of course, I know this. The just will live by FAITH. Without FAITH - it is impossible to please Him. I had been asking God to make His way so plain, I would not have to exercise any faith. How elementary can one get? So, once again, my dear Heavenly Abba (Daddy) took particular care to show me - I haven't arrived. Once we stop growing, learning, changing - we have stopped in our journey. I smile as I confess - I am still on the journey. "Lord, remind me to stay focused on You, so I won't be distracted - won't become prideful - won't think I've arrived. Help me to be able one day to say with Paul, " I have fought a good fight, I have kept the faith, I have finished my journey. Amen."

It's Not About ...

You can finish the statement above - I know you can. "It's not about me" has become a sentence everyone quotes, but who practices it? Somehow, it's just so easy for it all to be about ME - my feelings, my needs, my wants. I am always hearing about someone whose feelings are hurt, or from someone who is afraid they will hurt someone's feelings. This is the norm in the church today. It seems that instead of growing in the Lord - instead of having His peace in our hearts and minds - instead of living a life focused outwardly on others, we still struggle with this most elementary concept. It truly isn't about me. It's about Jesus - about giving Him glory - walking in His steps - fulfilling the great commandment: Love God - Love Others. It's about being filled with His Holy Spirit and walking in the Spirit, not the flesh. Simple? Yes. Hard? Yes! Because I have to die to self for any of this to happen. Jesus instructed us to pick up our cross (to die upon) daily and follow Him. "O Lord, give us the diligence to renew our hearts and minds with Your Word daily, to really die to ourselves and follow You every day. Help us to walk by faith, not by feelings."

Communication

Today my thoughts have turned towards communication. Why is communication so difficult? That statement makes me laugh - it sounds ridiculous, doesn't it. I believe one reason is because we think we are communicating when we share information the best way we can. And the truth is, communication does not take place, until the person we are sharing with comprehends and understands. Communication ultimately takes place when the information is truly understood. We often assume we have communicated - when we haven't. We sometimes blame the listener. If we honestly want to communicate, we may have to find various ways to get the information across. We have to be willing to keep trying until we know for certain we aren't just having dialogue - we are communicating. Without communication - there are misunderstandings and hurts. I am praying for those I know who are suffering from miscommunication. I'm so thankful God communicated His love to me and to everyone in this world through His Son, Jesus Christ. I am trusting Him to help me and those I love communicate His love to each other and all those we meet. I am glad He is big enough to even help us with the daily communication that is so necessary for us to be successful in all we do. That is my heart today.

Mother's Day

Tomorrow is Mother's Day. All week, I've received one forward after another about how marvelous Moms are! Amen! My husband has spoken numerous times about being at Wal-mart in the card aisle and seeing rough looking men - searching through the cards for that perfect card for their mother. It's one of the busiest days of the year for phone service and florists. There's just something about Mother... I have a wonderful mother and most of you would agree. Even those who struggle in their relationship with Mom, want to honor her on Mother's Day. Proverbs 31 says, "...her children arise and call her blessed" Tomorrow is a special day. We have 8 mothers in our family this year. It is Jill's first mother's day and we are all praising our wonderful Heavenly Father for this miracle! Mother's Day has always been a painful day for her...until now. Tomorrow she will be rejoicing and we'll all be rejoicing with her! Thank you, Lord.

Finishing Well

Friday night my daugher, Jayna, graduated with her Associate's degree. She started this journey almost 4 years ago. Although married and the mother of two - she took her ACT again, scoring high enough to win a scholarship. Then she discovered she was pregnant. In March of the next year, Joylyn was born. This was just a detour for Jayna. After Joylyn turned 1, Jayna started the process again of enrolling and starting her college education. It has taken a great deal of determination and persistence - but Friday, it paid off. She graduated with a 3.85 gradepoint.

I was reminded that scripture admonishes us not only to finish, but to finish well. Jayna finished this leg of her journey quite well. Looking at my children rejoicing over her accomplishment on Friday night, I realized again that I am growing older! It's hard to believe, but it's true. LOL! I've been on my journey over 57 years and like everyone else, I've no idea when my journey will end. I am determined to finish well.

Wonderful Rainy Day

Today is a wonderful, rainy day. The skies are overcast and there is a gentle rain falling. I love these days, always have. When I was young, these were the days I brought out my paper dolls to play with. (I know you younger girls will be saying, what are paper dolls???) Today, I will be sewing, no more paper dolls for me! I know there are some who get depressed when the sun isn't out, but not me! I love the dark cloudy days. It's cooler outside due to the rain as well. I remember when my eldest child, Chris, was small. He was afraid of the thunder and lightning. I would tell him God is watering the earth, so we would have water to drink and the plants could grow. This would give us food as well. After that, he would always say when the rain came, God is watering the earth, isn't He, Mama? Aren't you thankful God has given us the four seasons? How monotonous if we only had summer or winter, all year long. We get weary of the heat or the cold and we know it's only temporary. We can be assured there is another season coming soon for us to enjoy ( or not!).

This little guy was in my backyard taking a bath! He and his mate (who ran when I went to photograph) are sitting out enjoying the rain. He would take his paws and rub over his face, like he was washing himself.

My ferns soaking up the rain.

Thank you, Lord, for wonderful, rainy days!

So small...

My daughter recently advised me to get and view a couple of dvd's and last week, I ordered them. I watched them the past couple of nights. They are How Great Is Our God and Indescriable by Louie Giglio. I'm inserting a couple of photos from the Hubble telescope that he used in these dvd's. The psalmist wrote, "The heavens are telling the glory of God"... and ..."when I consider the works of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, what is man that Thou art mindful of him." When someone comes along who can explain the immense size of the universe - WOW! We tend to bring God down to our size, don't we? The universe is so vast, we can't really get our minds around it. And scripture tells us the earth is "His footstool" and that He "measures the heavens with his hand". That's a mighty large foot in my opinion and a ginormous hand! I think it was Steven C. Chapman who wrote the song, "God is God and I'm not." How great is our God! And how small am I...

The Milky Way - where we live. If you can click and enlarge - you can see our tiny Earth.

This is the Crab Nebula - one of God's magnificent creations light years away from Earth.

Isn't it beautful?

I highly recommend the two dvds - they can be found at Christian Cinema.com or cbd.com.

Get a new look at the greatness of out Wonderful God and The Creator, Jesus Christ!

Feathering

Isn't it amazing how God created women to "nest"? It's been said that only a woman understands the difference between off-white and ecru. As a rule, women need to feather their nest - so to speak - to make the home warm and inviting - beautiful in their own estimation. Well, this weekend, I've been "feathering"! I have had several projects I've been wanting to do. Plus a friend and I went to an auction today. I bid and got my first auction item, ever! I was the high bidder for a card table. LOL! Then we went to T.J. Maxx and Tuesday Morning, my two favorite places to find bargains. You can't see it, but this flower container has roosters on it, which goes with my rooster kitchen - and the red geraniums go with the red in my kitchen! Friday, I went to Wal-Mart and got supplies to make a wreath for my front door. I love hydrangeas - and here it is! I got one new pillow and recycled an old into leopard!

My son, Cary, recently finished framing a painting Sara made for me. It is the scripture of one generation sharing with the next. I recovered pillows to go with the purple scheme.

On the adjoining wall, I have pictures of the next generation - mychildren.

I feel very good about my "nest" at the moment, very fulfilled.

Maybe you will be inspired to do a little "feathering" of your own!

Unique Creations

Today, I'm thinking about two of my grandchildren, who came to see me this past week. What a joy! My three sons and one daughter-in-love, Sara, also came. Once again, God impressed me with how uniquely He has made each one of us.

My sons, Chris - Cary - Andrew, are so different. You mothers out there - you know what I am talking about. Each one has unique abilities and talents. They actually complement each other very well. It's almost as if God said, "This family needs this and this and this in order to function." When you add our daughters and their husbands and my sons' wives - there is hardly anything we need, that we cannot do. Martha, my SS teacher, asked me, "Do you ever hire anything done?" I answered (truthfully), "Hardly ever."

My two youngest grandchildren, Kandace and Jackson, are just as unique. Jackson is your typical firstborn son - he never stops, is endlessly searching for something to get into, but quick to give loves and kisses - of course he is the older of the two. Kandace, is content to lie and play - quick to smile when you speak to her.

God is so creative. He so loves diversity. How wonderful that there is only one of me (my husband would amen that!) How wonderful that we were blessed with 6 totally unique children and their mates and 10 unique grandchildren. There is so much to appreciate and love!

So Many Blessings

Wednesday was a wonderful day. It was Andrew's birthday - my baby is 28 years old - unbelievable. He's a very special man and we are very proud of him. We also learned Jill and Alex are expecting one baby - and heard a very strong and to us, amazing heartbeat! We all gasped when it suddenly came through the monitor. The nurse patted me and said, "I'm even in tears!" LOL! God is so good - as some say - ALL THE TIME! It is so comforting to know even in the bad times - He is good. He always has our best at heart. How great is that? I can go through anything knowing He is in control of my life and orchestrating the very best outcome for me. I know He is doing the same for my children and grandchildren too. So many blessings, let me count them...

Anticipation

The anticipation began a few weeks ago, when Jill had her IVF transfer. We anticipated the news of a BFP! (For those of you who are not familiar with the IVF world - that is a big fat positive.) When it came, we rejoiced and cried and rejoiced and cried many times over. Well, Thursday morning I get to go with Jill and Alex to the first ultrasound. I am filled once more with anticipation. Will there be one? two? She has been very nauseous and I think, does this mean there are two? How exciting! (We will be thrilled with one.) Whether one or two - once we know - the anticipation for whether we are expecting boy or girl - or boys or girls - or boys and girls, LOL! You see what I mean? Anticipation. A wonderful thing! I think this is what God wants from us when we go to Him in prayer: "Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him..." Psalms 37:7 Oh, to simply take our requests to God and then rest, waiting with anticipation to see what He will do!

National Champions

Last weekend I got to go watch my grandsons play in the National Christian Homeschool Basketball Tournament in Springfield, Missouri. We got the call on Friday that they had made it to the finals on Saturday morning and we decided to pack up and go! It was so exciting! It was so close the entire game. Our team is small and when they get into foul trouble - they're really in trouble! LOL! But they hung on and won! So, here they are the Saline County Christian Homeschool Warriors (how cool is it that the school they were playing in was also the Warriors - hence, the banner above them!) - Division II, 1A, 14 and under National Champions!

Children - God's Blessing!

It's been awhile since I've posted - we've been in waiting mode. Waiting to see if God would bless Jill's IVF transfer. I really felt like the waiting would never end. But Friday night, Jill told us - she's pregnant! Hallelujah! God is faithful and He remembered Jill.

On Wednesday night, Cary called to tell us he and Sara are pregnant again - another praise! So, in November or thereabouts, we will have two new grandbabies to hold and love.

We cherish them already and pray for them daily - along with the 10 who are already here!

Children are the heritage of the Lord - a blessing. There are no accidents - God planned each and every person who ever has been or ever will be born. We are entrusted with children - to raise and disciple them for the Lord.

Happy Families!

Ministry Wives' Conference - Nashville

Well, what can I say that hasn't been said? Just finished reading Jill's blog about our trip to Nashville. It was awesome and affirming. No matter how long one is in ministry, we continually need refreshing and renewing. We have to have our calling affirmed. And that's what happened in Nashville this past week!

God is so faithful to meet us right where we are - to take us where He wants us to go. He told me again that I am called by Him and He will not fail. Praise the Lord!

God bless Beth Moore and Travis Cottrell, the praise team and LifeWay's event team! They held nothing back and gave us all they were given by God to minister to us.

I got this picture from Jill's site - worship we will NEVER forget.

Apple Cutlets

This blogging is hard work! This past Friday, I decided to cook some pork cutlets for supper. There were 3 small ones in the package, plenty for Jay and me. I discovered a recipe on the package and it sounded interesting. Of course, I always have to vary from a recipe - you can ask my girls. So, I made one small change and with salad and some greens beans, we had a delicious and different meal! We each ate one cutlet and there was one left. Jay said, "I'll half it with you," and he went to put it on his plate, when suddenly I cried, "Wait!" He jumped back, startled and said, "What?" "I have to take a picture for my blog!" And we both were laughing out loud. I explained I needed someting to blog about and pork cutlets it would be! Now, I have to work on taking food pictures - this isn't the best in the world, sorry :(

Apple Cutlets

4 pork cutlets 1 Tbsp. flour 2 tsp. olive oil 1/2 onion, sliced 1 apple, thinly sliced

Season flour with a little salt and pepper. Lightly dredge cutlets in the flour. Brown on one side in olive oil. Turn cutlets. Add onion rings and apple slices, cover, lower heat and simmer for 5-8 min.

Serves 4

Let it snow!

Saturday it started snowing, and it snowed and it snowed and it snowed! For twelve hours, it snowed. Snow really does blanket the earth when it falls - it gets very quiet and still outside.

I get very excited when it snows - I have no idea why. I think it is the child within us that never tires of seeing snow. If I went to the doors to look out once, I must have gone fifty times. I had to keep up with its depth and whether it was still falling. As soon as there was a good accumulation of snow - I had to make snow cream - yummy! My husband, Jay, was not so impressed, but he ate some, I think just to humor me. I will attach a photo or two for you to see our 10+ inches of snow. One is of my friend, Melinda and her snowman! I was once again reminded that the blood of Jesus washes us as white as snow. Thank you, Jesus!

Here goes...

I do not find blogging to be easy. As I said before, who wants to expose their life for all to read? And further more, who wants to read about my life? Well, here goes... This past Thursday, Friday and Saturday - Jay and I went to Hot Springs. We were lazy - stayed up late and got up late - walked around the stores and thought about where we would eat next! We definitely didn't think about dieting - not this week. Saturday was our 40th wedding anniversary. Yay!!!! I know those of you who know me, can't believe it - well, neither can I. What a journey we've had - the ups and downs - the heartaches and the joys. But most of all - we've learned how faithful our loving heavenly Father is. He's never failed us and He's the reason we are able to celebrate 40 years. And the blessings! I could never begin to count them all. God is good - all the time!

Today I Blog

It's official. I am now a blogger. I have resisted for some time. How can one put their life "out there" for the world to see and read? I have no answer. Today I blog.