URHIS

2010-01-26T23:10:00.002-05:00

LUKE

I heard the phone ring yesterday and I raced to pick it up hoping yet not trusting myself to hope then I said hello and all the world was RIGHT! I heard this little, gigglely voice say "Grandma, I know you miss me, but I have something to tell you." It took him several starts and I'm not sure he ever got to the story he actually called to tell me but we had a lovely chat. After I proposed to him multiple times just to hear his laugh once more, he tells me....that is SO Gross, Grandma! Luke Thomas pulls at my heart strings and makes me want to book the next flight to Arkansas.
Placing our adult children in God's hands and asking Him to direct them means He may call them into His Vineyard far from us. It is comforting to know that He is there for them and for us in those lonely times when we long to see them and touch there face. Thankfully technology allows as faster contact than a hundred years ago. Now I must send off that letter that I promised Luke. It really helps sometime to hold in your hand proof that your loved one thought of you and said it in writing. LOL Just being trandparent today. I miss you, Phillip, Merrie Beth, Jason, Steven, Timmy, Luke, and dear little Aaron. Don't grow up too soon little ones. I LOVE YOU!

2009-06-07T16:06:00.002-04:00

The Arkansas Ozarks

Aaron

Pivot Rock

Thorncrown Chapel

Steven, Jason

Luke

Luke & Timmy

Christ of the Ozarks

2009-05-06T00:57:00.003-04:00

2009 Mother-Daughter

Banquet

Hannah and Sarah

Naomi and Me
Sarah and I

Hannah

Abigail, Sarah and

2009-04-09T01:18:00.001-04:00

His is Risen
Luke 24 & Mark 16

For the past few months we have been practicing a cantata for presentation at Easter entitled “Easter Song” by John W. Paterson. As we come to the end of the song, there is a triumphant refrain that states, “Alleluia, Christ is risen, Christ is risen, Christ is risen from the dead. Alleluia.”

As I thought on these life-changing words, I recalled an article that was titled “The Empty Tomb”. In this article the writer presents a list of well-known places that are revered because of those buried there -- historical places such as the Pyramids of Egypt, where the ancient mummified bodies of the rulers of Egypt were laid to rest. There are places visited by millions as part of sacred pilgrimages, such as the burial place of Mohammad, and the less-than-sacred such as Graceland, the burial place of Elvis Presley. Westmininster Abbey in London is the final resting place of many noble Englishmen and women (including Handel – 14th April 1796). There are the many final resting places of those who gave their lives for their countries, including those tombs of the “Unknown Soldier”.

All these famous graves have one thing in common -- that one common denominator being that the bodies of those that were buried there remain where they were buried, (except in cases such as the Pyramids where the bodies were removed by archaeologists for study).

There is one great important difference between these tombs and the tomb of Jesus. His tomb is empty, and has been empty for over two thousand years. There is no epitaph of Jesus inscribed in stone or in gold which says, “Here lies Jesus.” Rather we find that Jesus’ epitaph was spoken by the mouth of the angel to those who went to the tomb very early in the morning on the third day, when he said, “ He is NOT here … He is Risen!”

Today we have no sealed tomb that denotes the burial place of Jesus for He is alive. He is alive and available for all who will accept this truth and believe that He not only died but God raised him from the dead. He is the Son of God and has now ascended to heaven to sit at the right hand of the Father to intercede for us. We who believe have joy and assurance that He not only lives but that He reigns in our hearts.

Praise God the tomb is empty – Jesus is alive and He lives forever more.

Hallelujah – Jesus is alive !

2009-03-19T11:16:00.002-04:00

Well fellow bloggers who refuse to give up that status to the "new " FaceBook craze I thought it was time to write something! Everything has been pretty routine around the Avery household and for that I am thankful. I will take routine over stressed anytime. I enjoyed the lovely day we had Tuesday: walked to the park with Naomi, Abigail, and Zachary. I have been watching excitedly as my daffodils and tulips push their tiny heads up through the dirt of my flowerbeds.

I too, have a Facebook account but somehow it just doesn't work for me. Yes, I have connected with some that I didn't before but the FB format doesn't work for my computer....I can't fit everything on my screen and I tried reducing the print and then it was way too small. Plus I enjoy actually reading the thoughts and activities of my friends and family. Maybe I just struggle with change. LOL So for any of you who are still blogging I am still reading and send greetings.
So long for now. Looking forward to summer!

2009-02-24T12:41:00.002-05:00

The Invisible Mother

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response,the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?' Obviously, not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor,or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this?Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer,'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.' I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going; she's going; she is gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England... Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe.I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: 'To Charlotte, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.' In the days ahead I would read - no, devour the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man,'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.' And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.' I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.'

At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not adisease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree. When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, 'you're going to love it there.' As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women. Great Job, MOM! Hope this encourages you when the going gets tough as it sometimes does.

2009-02-13T16:11:00.004-05:00

Happy Valentines Day!

Love to all our Family and friends!

My our Saviour's Love

give you

JOY

Rose are red,

Violets are blue,

Sugar is sweet

and

so are YOU!

2009-02-02T10:14:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday, Naomi

Happy 33 rd Birthday!

We love you.

2009-01-30T01:54:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday!

The World's Greatest

Grandma
Great-Grandma

The Best Mother
A Gift from God

2009-01-22T11:52:00.002-05:00

The Unseen Children

The little boy with vacant stare;

The little girl who walks nowhere;

The child who's born with enlarged head;

The one who's confined to his bed.

These are the children no one sees;

They bring their parents to their knees;

To ask for strength from up above,

To help their children and give him love.

For each step will bring elation,

A smiles cause for celebration.

To learn to drink, to learn to eat,

For these kids is an awesome feat.

The parents

wish they'd run and play,

But they'll just take life day by day.

These kids were sent from up above,

To live on earth and give us love.

Connie Owens

(parent of a handicapped child)

2009-01-15T13:45:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday..... to my Darling Husband

You are my rock of stability,

My companion in adventure,

You are my

Lover

Friend!

All My Love!!!

2009-01-11T16:21:00.005-05:00

Severe Weather.......Staying Home, no Church?

This morning after receiving close to 10 inches of snow our family decided there would be no Church attendance for us. But thanks to FBHC in Frankfort, IN we were able to attend their services and then via the internet we traveled to Overland Park, KS and attended Church with the Church of God Holiness folk. Bro. Mowery spoke so well on having compassion on our brothers and sisters in Christ and showing Christ's love through our compassion. Bro. Peterson in Kansas spoke about "Watering Camels with a Smile." What faith it took for Rebecca to leave her home and family to travel far away to a land she had never been to marry a man she had never seen. What a exemplary woman as she went above and beyond the call as she not only offered Abraham's servant a drink then also offered to give his camels a drink also. We found out during prayer time that Phillip's brother, Mark was out of the country and would be returning tomorrow from Haiti. He and Bro. Poe have been ministering to souls in Haiti.

Well thanks to these 2 Churches we have no excuse for missing Church services in inclement weather.

http://www.fbhc.info/LiveService.htm

http://churchofgodop.homestead.com/index.html

2009-01-06T22:09:00.002-05:00

Today as I thought about this New Year and all the fresh challenges of this coming year I was reminded that these challenges are NOT new to God. Nothing catches Him by surprise. God has already provided the Grace I need to meet those challenges and to grow in Christ. Now is not the time to fear and doubt but to trust God's Promises and cling more tightly to His unchanging hand. He has been faithful in the past and I am determined to trust Him with all my tomorrows. His Word assures me that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever more. Knowing that there are challenges and changes coming provides me with new opportunities to allow the Holy Spirit to guide and direct my path as I submit to His leadership. How silly of the creation to tell the Creator I will not be useful for the purpose you have designed for me. Why not offer ourselves as a living sacrifice and follow where ever He leads.....even if that means over some rocky uncharted terrain. God has trod the path before us and He desires the challenges to be helpful not harmful to us. May we all be Challenges to follow where He leads us!

2008-12-24T13:32:00.003-05:00

To all our family and friends whom we will not be celebrating Christmas with this year Phillip and I wish each of you a VERY Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We'll have a blue Christmas without you! You will be in our thoughts and prayers. May your Christmas celebration be graced with the presence of God's Son. We trust you will have a blessed New Year from beginning till Christ Return. God Bless, Everyone! We love you.

2008-12-24T13:28:00.002-05:00

This is what Christmas is all about...

(Better bundle up - the goose bumps will freeze you!! I think I need to read this every year at Christmas. )

Pa never had much compassion for the lazy or those who squandered their means and then never had enough for the necessities. But for those who were genuinely in need, his heart was as big as all outdoors. It was from him that I learned the greatest joy in life comes from giving, not from receiving.
It was Christmas Eve 1881. I was fifteen years old and feeling like the world had caved in on me because there just hadn't been enough money to buy me the rifle that I'd wanted for Christmas. We did the chores early that night for some reason. I just figured Pa wanted a little extra time so we could read in the Bible.
After supper was over I took my boots off and stretched out in front of the fireplace and waited for Pa to get down the old Bible. I was still feeling sorry for myself and, to be honest, I wasn't in much of a mood to read Scriptures. But Pa didn't get the Bible, instead he bundled up again and went outside. I couldn't figure it out because we had already done all the chores. I didn't worry about it long though, I was too busy wallowing in self-pity. Soon Pa came back in. It was a cold clear night out and there was ice in his beard. "Come on, Matt," he said. "Bundle up good, it's cold out tonight." I was really upset then. Not only wasn't I getting the rifle for Christmas, now Pa was dragging me out in the cold, and for no earthly reason that I could see. We'd already done all the chores, and I couldn't think of anything else that needed doing, especially not on a night like this. But I knew Pa was not very patient at one dragging one's feet when he'd told them to do something, so I got up and put my boots back on and got my cap, coat, and mittens. Ma gave me a mysterious smile as I opened the door to leave the house. Something was up, but I didn't know what..
Outside, I became even more dismayed. There in front of the house was the work team, already hitched to the big sled. Whatever it was we were going to do wasn't going to be a short, quick, little job. I could tell. We never hitched up this sled unless we were going to haul a big load. Pa was already up on the seat, reins in hand. I reluctantly climbed up beside him. The cold was already biting at me. I wasn't happy. When I was on, Pa pulled the sled around the house and stopped in front of the woodshed. He got off and I followed. "I think we'll put on the high sideboards," he said. "Here, help me." The high sideboards! It had been a bigger job than I wanted to do with just the low sideboards on, but whatever it was we were going to do would be a lot bigger with the high side boards on.
After we had exchanged the sideboards, Pa went into the woodshed and came out with an armload of wood - the wood I'd spent all summer hauling down from the mountain, and then all Fall sawing into blocks and splitting. What was he doing? Finally I said something. "Pa," I asked, "what are you doing?" You been by the Widow Jensen's lately?" he asked. The Widow Jensen lived about two miles down the road. Her husband had died a year or so before and left her with three children, the oldest being eight. Sure, I'd been by, but so what?
Yeah," I said, "Why?"
"I rode by just today," Pa said. "Little Jakey was out digging around in the woodpile trying to find a few chips. They're out of wood, Matt." That was all he said and then he turned and went back into the woodshed for another armload of wood. I followed him. We loaded the sled so high that I began to wonder if the horses would be able to pull it. Finally, Pa called a halt to our loading, then we went to the smoke house and Pa took down a big ham and a side of bacon. He handed them to me and told me to put them in the sled and wait. When he returned he was carrying a sack of flour over his right shoulder and a smaller sack of something in his left hand. "What's in the little sack?" I asked. Shoes, they're out of shoes. Little Jakey just had gunny sacks wrapped around his feet when he was out in the woodpile this morning. I got the children a little candy too. It just wouldn't be Christmas without a little candy."
We rode the two miles to Widow Jensen's pretty much in silence. I tried to think through what Pa was doing. We didn't have much by worldly standards. Of course, we did have a big woodpile, though most of what was left now was still in the form of logs that I would have to saw into blocks and split before we could use it. We also had meat and flour, some we could spare that, but I knew we didn't have any money, so why was Pa buying them shoes and candy? Really, why was he doing any of this? Widow Jensen had closer neighbors than us; it shouldn't have been our concern.
We came in from the blind side of the Jensen house and unloaded the wood as quietly as possible, then we took the meat and flour and shoes to the door. We knocked. The door opened a crack and a timid voice said, "Who is it?" "Lucas Miles, Ma'am, and my son, Matt, could we come in for a bit?"
Widow Jensen opened the door and let us in. She had a blanket wrapped around her shoulders. The children were wrapped in another and were sitting in front of the fireplace by a very small fire that hardly gave off any heat at all. Widow Jensen fumbled with a match and finally lit the lamp.
"We brought you a few things, Ma'am," Pa said and set down the sack of flour. I put the meat on the table. Then Pa handed her the sack that had the shoes in it. She opened it hesitantly and took the shoes out one pair at a time. There was a pair for her and one for each of the children - sturdy shoes, the best, shoes that would last. I watched her carefully. She bit her lower lip to keep it from trembling and then tears filled her eyes and started running down her cheeks. She looked up at Pa like she wanted to say something, but it wouldn't come out.
"We brought a load of wood too, Ma'am," Pa said. He turned to me and said, "Matt, go bring in enough to last awhile. Let's get that fire up to size and heat this place up." I wasn't the same person when I went back out to bring in the wood. I had a big lump in my throat and as much as I hate to admit it, there were tears in my eyes too. In my mind I kept seeing those three kids huddled around the fireplace and their mother standing there with tears running down her cheeks with so much gratitude in her heart that she couldn't speak.
My heart swelled within me and a joy that I'd never known before, filled my soul. I had given at Christmas many times before, but never when it had made so much difference. I could see we were literally saving the lives of these people.
I soon had the fire blazing and everyone's spirits soared. The kids started giggling when Pa handed them each a piece of candy and Widow Jensen looked on with a smile that probably hadn't crossed her face for a long time. She finally turned to us. "God bless you," she said. "I know the Lord has sent you. The children and I have been praying that he would send one of his angels to spare us."
In spite of myself, the lump returned to my throat and the tears welled up in my eyes again. I'd never thought of Pa in those exact terms before, but after Widow Jensen mentioned it I could see that it was probably true. I was sure that a better man than Pa had never walked the earth. I started remembering all the times he had gone out of his way for Ma and me, and many others. The list seemed endless as I thought on it.
Pa insisted that everyone try on the shoes before we left. I was amazed when they all fit and I wondered how he had known what sizes to get. Then I guessed that if he was on an errand for the Lord that the Lord would make sure he got the right sizes.
Tears were running down Widow Jensen's face again when we stood up to leave. Pa took each of the kids in his big arms and gave them a hug. They clung to him and didn't want us to go. I could see that they missed their Pa, and I was glad that I still had mine.
At the door Pa turned to Widow Jensen and said, "The Mrs. wanted me to invite you and the children over for Christmas dinner tomorrow. The turkey will be more than the three of us can eat, and a man can get cantankerous if he has to eat turkey for too many meals. We'll be by to get you about eleven. It'll be nice to have some little ones around again. Matt, here, hasn't been little for quite a spell." I was the youngest. My two brothers and two sisters had all married and had moved away.
Widow Jensen nodded and said, "Thank you, Brother Miles. I don't have to say, May the Lord bless you, I know for certain that He will."
Out on the sled I felt a warmth that came from deep within and I didn't even notice the cold. When we had gone a ways, Pa turned to me and said, "Matt, I want you to know something. Your ma and me have been tucking a little money away here and there all year so we could buy that rifle for you, but we didn't have quite enough. Then yesterday a man who owed me a little money from years back came by to make things square. Your ma and me were real excited, thinking that now we could get you that rifle, and I started into town this morning to do just that,but on the way I saw little Jakey out scratching in the woodpile with his feet wrapped in those gunny sacks and I knew what I had to do. Son, I spent the money for shoes and a little candy for those children. I hope you understand."
I understood, and my eyes became wet with tears again. I understood very well, and I was so glad Pa had done it. Now the rifle seemed very low on my list of priorities. Pa had given me a lot more. He had given me the look on Widow Jensen's face and the radiant smiles of her three children.
For the rest of my life, whenever I saw any of the Jensens, or split a block of wood, I remembered, and remembering brought back that same joy I felt riding home beside Pa that night. Pa had given me much more than a rifle that night, he had given me the best Christmas of my life.
Share this inspiring message. God bless you!

2008-12-23T14:36:00.000-05:00

“IS THE BABE STILL IN THE MANGER?”
Luke 2

At this time of the year all over the world there is a commercial emphasis on Christmas tempting people to buy a lot of useless and unnecessary things. As far as Christmas decorations are concerned, one trade magazine says that nativity scenes are the popular choice of decoration, outselling those of Santa Claus.

As I read that article I could not help but ask, " Why is this so?” When you read the statistics of the number who attend church and see that more and more churches are closing because of lack of support and attendance, why then this sudden interest in the nativity ornaments?

The question that keeps coming to my mind concerning these people caught up in this trend, "Is it the appeal of the babe in the manger and nothing more?" For them is the Babe still in the manger? Is this all that Christmas means to them?

We sing ‘Away in a Manger’, but so many do not go much further in their thought processes than the manger. There are those who, because of the turmoil in the world, grasp at this small fragment of the angels' message when they sang about ‘peace on earth’. They just see the Babe as a symbol of that peace -- peace they desire to be established in the world -- missing the fact that peace can only come through accepting the complete message -- a Savior, not a military leader. No ordinary man – no matter how he tries -- can bring peace to the world. The only One who can bring true peace on earth is the Babe – the Christ Child. By His coming, His life, death and resurrection, He is the only One who can forgive sin and give His peace as a result of a right relationship with God.

When we continue to keep the Babe in the manger and fail to allow Him to grow and accomplish the task for which He came, we will never know His peace in our hearts and lives.

A couple of years ago people were saying, ‘Put Christ back into Christmas’. I wonder if this sudden desire to purchase nativity scenes is not an outcome of that slogan. Perhaps they see this as a means of doing just that, yet missing the whole point. In reality those who began the saying, ‘let us celebrate the true meaning of Christmas' - did not want us to forget why He was born in Bethlehem and laid in a manger so long ago.

Do we only think of the manger scene for just one month of the year and as soon as the Christmas season is over, pack it up and put it away for another year along with all thoughts of the real meaning of Christmas?

Let me ask you, “Is the Babe still in the manger”? Do we only think of the Christ Child as a Babe in the manger and leave the thought of Him there? Or in our hearts and minds do we allow Him to grow into manhood so that He can accomplish the task that God the Father had planned for our Salvation?

When Mary was first visited by the angel Gabriel, he said unto her, “You shall have a Son, and shall call His name Jesus…He…shall be called the Son of the Highest". Later when the angel appeared to Joseph in a dream concerning Mary and the child she was carrying said that he was not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife. The angel said, “Thou shalt call His name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins”.

God never intended that His Son, the Babe, should remain in the manger. Unfortunately too many are continuing to do just that.

As we approach this Christmas, it is my prayer that each one will think afresh on the true significance of the coming of the Christ Child.

Do we truly believe in our hearts that He was born as the angel said to Joseph, “to save His people from their sins’, or as told by the angels to the shepherds, “For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord”?

If you have any doubts concerning what the Christ Child means to you, come, bow down and worship Him. He will reveal Himself, not just as the Babe of Bethlehem, but as the Saviour for all who will truly believe that He is Immanuel – God with us -- the Savior of the world.

May the Christ of Christmas rule and reign in your heart, filling it anew with the glory and wonder of His coming.

2008-12-21T13:55:00.006-05:00

Christmas in Our Neighborhood

Sarah, Tony, Abigail, Zachary, & Hannah came to our home for supper and to exchange Christmas gifts.

Hannah read the Christmas story after supper and Abigail led in prayer as we thanked the Lord for blessing this past year and His protection on the year to come.

Tony is ready to challenge anyone to a game of Uno Flash

Or perhaps he is talking on a challenge. He has the tools for it.

Zachary is learning to play the trumpet.

Well it could be the violin...he hasn't decided.

Zachary can always fall back on his profession as firefighter if being a musician doesn't work.

For brother/sister time there's now Bible Bingo.

A new picture for Sarah to decorate the house with if she will put aside that new Karen Kingsbury book. Plus a skirt, a rug, a candle, etc.

Abigail can send messages now with her new Text and Talk Set. She can order snacks from her room.

This is her Yorkie puppy that actually breathes but it doesn't have to be let outside for a potty break. Do you think she will trade her poodle (Cuddles) who does require this attention? Don't think so.

This is one of her doll sets. Actually the other doll was a guy doll from Hannah Montana. You'll have to ask her the name I'm still stuck in the Barbie and Ken era. She also received a Barbie Lantern, & Microphone.

Here HE is......Mr. Americaaaaa!

Zachary went to Santa's workshop at school and did his Christmas shopping. He bought Naomi and me one of these cute little snowman pins. Naomi was also thrilled to receive a Bible Cover and tapes as well as fun pads.

Hannah has new MICHIGAN slippers, a skirt, a Bible, a set of pillows & socks.

No, we did not have a robbery while we were exchanging gifts. My husband is all ready for the freezing temperatures that began today with his new face mask. He also got several packs of Peppermints and a black shirt.

A cute flashlight from Zachary that has "grandpa" stamped on it.

These are my new slippers. They are SO warm, I love to send birthday/anniversary cards to my aunts, uncles, and family so I received 3 boxes of cards, perfume,a lace wall hanging, and a keychain that says "grandma." I'm sure I have left somethings out but we had a wonderful time with our family and we would like to say THANK-YOU to each of them. We love you all and praise God that you are all part of our lives. God bless you. Phillip, Naomi Ann and I will be leaving Wednesday evening to go to my mother's home for Christmas. Family time is one of the best parts of Christmas.

2008-12-20T15:18:00.002-05:00

CHRISTMAS COOKIES
1. If you eat a Christmas cookie fresh out of the oven, it has no calories because everyone knows that the first cookie is the test and thus calorie free.

2. If you drink a diet soda after eating your second cookie, it also has no calories because the diet soda cancels out the cookie calories.

3. If a friend comes over while you're making your Christmas cookies and needs to sample, you must sample with your friend. Because your friend's first cookie is calories free, rule #1 is yours also. It would be rude to let your friend sample alone and, being the friend that you are, that makes your cookie calorie free.

4. Any cookie calories consumed while walking around will fall to your feet and eventually fall off as you move. This is due to gravity and the density of the caloric mass.

5. Any calories consumed during the frosting of the Christmas cookies will be used up because it takes many calories to lick excess frosting from a knife without cutting your tongue.

6. Cookies colored red or green have very few calories. Red ones have three and green ones have five - one calorie for each letter. Make more red ones!

7. Cookies eaten while watching "Miracle on 34th Street" have no calories because they are part of the entertainment package and not part of one's personal fuel.

8. As always, cookie pieces contain no calories because the process of breaking causes calorie leakage.

9. Any cookies consumed from someone else's plate have no calories since the calories rightfully belong to the other person and will cling to their plate. We all know how calories like to CLING!

10. Any cookies consumed while feeling stressed have no calories because cookies used for medicinal purposes NEVER have calories. It's a rule!

2008-12-19T14:44:00.001-05:00

Snow Bunny's Day in the Snow

Abigail & Zachary

2008-12-14T00:49:00.002-05:00

Cassady Christmas Concert

Friday evening we were privileged to attend a Christmas concert given by Stephen, Nicole, Blake & Chloe Cassady. They were a blessing as they sang for the Glory of God. It was an inspiration to hear the children sing with all their hearts. If the Cassady's are singing within driving distance plan to go and you won't be disappointed. Merry Christmas to all!

2008-12-07T14:00:00.002-05:00

View from our front Door

Didn't God do a lovely job of decorating our lawn?

2008-12-03T13:13:00.004-05:00

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK ALOT LIKE CHRISTMAS!

Decorating for the Holidays

2008-12-01T13:05:00.001-05:00

Steven
Cowboys & Indians

Indian Jason

Ninja Jason

Indian Zachary

2008-12-01T12:49:00.003-05:00

Pool Babies

Luke by the Pool
Christmas at Thanksgiving

Exercise Room

All Our Grandchildren

2008-12-01T12:33:00.002-05:00

Luke
Naomi's turkey craft
at the Decatur Children's Museum
Aaron's headband craft

A bike for two

Santa's Reindeer

2008-12-01T11:54:00.004-05:00

Stven, Jason, & Aaron

Timmy, Luke,

Steven making bubbles

Timmy at the train table

Zachary at the train table

Aaron at the Lego table

Timmy

Who's the Pilot here?

Time for a new muffler

Twin Mechanics

Grandpa is this how to change it?

2008-12-01T11:31:00.004-05:00

Decatur Children's Museum

Ambulance driver - Zachary
Hospital Admissions
Abigail & Zachary

Dr. Jason & Abigail

Well Baby Clinic

Dr. Jason

Zachary Store Clerk

Mystery Shopper - Naomi

Clerk Jason

Cashier - Abigail

Little Shopper - Aaron

2008-11-26T14:18:00.003-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

We will return from Illinois with pictures. We trust you all have a wonderful time with with your loved ones. Love to you all

2008-11-11T13:41:00.005-05:00

Happy Tuesday Everybody

We went to my mother's over the weekend. My cousin's daughter was married Saturday. The pastor did a wonderful job challenging the newlyweds to follow God's design for marriage. Yesterday was spent catching up on laundry and unpacking. Today this grandma is enjoying 2 of her 7 grandchildren. So that includes walking Zachary to kindergarten. Then going back to pick him up at 11:00. We fixed lunch. Then I supervised Abigail as she home schooled. With the little white snow flurries that have popped up the last few days (not to mention the picture our son texted us of their new Christmas tree) I have developed a mild case of Christmas Spirit. So Zachary and I have been rearranging furniture. I think 3 computers doesn't help anything in a small living room. I have my PC, Phil has his laptop, and Naomi and the children have a computer just for their games. See all very necessary. LOL I really must get busy wrapping presents since we will be having Thanksgiving with our son's family in Illinois which is half way between Kansas and Michigan. So it won't be a homemade turkey dinner but we will be with family.Now we just have to pray some restaurant will be serving something like a Thanksgiving dinner.We won't be able to get together for Christmas so we will have Christmas with them at Thanksgiving time. Plus Luke's birthday is on Thanksgiving Day and his mommy's is the Day after. So I really must get back to work. Oh dear.....I have baking to do too!!! So much to do so little time when will I have time to put up the tree?

2008-11-07T00:04:00.005-05:00

Our Civic Duty

Romans 13:1-7

1LET EVERY person be loyally subject to the governing (civil) authorities. For there is no authority except from God [by His permission, His sanction], and those that exist do so by God's appointment.(A)

2Therefore he who resists and sets himself up against the authorities resists what God has appointed and arranged [in divine order]. And those who resist will bring down judgment upon themselves [receiving the penalty due them].

3For civil authorities are not a terror to [people of] good conduct, but to [those of] bad behavior. Would you have no dread of him who is in authority? Then do what is right and you will receive his approval and commendation.

4For he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, [you should dread him and] be afraid, for he does not bear and wear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant to execute His wrath (punishment, vengeance) on the wrongdoer.

5Therefore one must be subject, not only to avoid God's wrath and escape punishment, but also as a matter of principle and for the sake of conscience.

6For this same reason you pay taxes, for [the civil authorities] are official servants under God, devoting themselves to attending to this very service.

7Render to all men their dues. [Pay] taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, and honor to whom honor is due.

I thought the Amplified Bible spoke so plainly about our duties as citizens. Is it easy to submit to a ruler who opposes what we believe ? No, not easy but it is possible when we consider that it is ONLY with God's sanction and permission that this person rules. So as much as we are able we must give what is due to those over us. If we can not respect the man we must respect the position he holds.

Romans 12:18
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

Paul in his letter to Titus put it this way:

Titus 3:1-2
The Message
Remind the people to respect the government and be law-abiding, always ready to lend a helping hand. No insults, no fights. God's people should be bighearted and courteous.

2008-11-05T13:59:00.003-05:00

The electoral outcome was a sad day in America's history. To be honest it has been easier to read other peoples blogs today and share their feelings than to write my own feelings about the out come of the elections. I know the Bible says God will put into authority whom He chooses, but when I look at the values of the man chosen as president it breaks my heart when I think how his decisions will effect the future of America and our Churches. As never before we need to pray for our country. But as I write that I am also aware that these same feelings were within the persecuted Church throughout history. It is a fact that the persecuted Church was a growing Church. May we be strengthened by God's Grace for the days ahead.

IN GOD WE TRUST

(may it ever be so)

2008-11-03T14:03:00.003-05:00

PRAY FOR OUR COUNTRY

Remember to VOTE!

2008-10-28T13:16:00.002-04:00

Today is a sick day. Are Mother's allowed those? I didn't see that clause in my contract. Just the minor stuffy nose, sore throat kind. I sound like I could sing bass if in fact I could sing. So the tea, chicken noodle soup, cough drops, and Vick Rub are keeping me company. Please don't forget the tissues. I'm so thankful Jesus is with me even when I smell like a drug store. He's the BEST friend!

2008-10-24T01:35:00.002-04:00

Happy Sweetest Day!

On Saturday I returned home from my Mother's where I had been assisting her while she had her other hand operated on for carpel tunnel. This is what my Darling Husband had on the table to greet me, 4 bottles of my favorite tea ( Gold Peak Tea), 2 dozen Roses, and 2 Sweetest Day cards. He then took me out for supper at Golden Corral. Yes, you are correct..... I AM Spoiled! But I really LOVE the man. Thank you Phillip. You are my sweetheart.

2008-10-19T22:50:00.003-04:00

1972

Phil....Can it really be????

1954

1968

1988

1970

1990

2008-10-19T15:13:00.010-04:00

1962

1968

This is tooo funny.....me with the BIG bangs! 1982

1984

1974

Yearbook Yourself

http://www.yearbookyourself.com/

I think I'll stick with the yearbook picture I had. I will try to post the picture they showed of me in 1974 it was NOT like the one that I have.

2008-10-12T15:01:00.002-04:00

Have I read this someplace before?

After blogging I visited my daughter Sarah's blog and I found she has blogged some of the same family events as I so instead of duplicating the wonderful time we had Saturday at the Butterfly farm and Grand Rapids, Ohio I encourage you to check my list of fellowbloggers, find Sarah and Tony's blog and read all about it!! She does a wonderful job of adding pictures. It was so touching to this grandma's heart to hear Abigail and Zachary say, "This is the best day EVER." I'm very happy they enjoyed themselves.

2008-10-11T12:33:00.004-04:00

Wedding Bells

Friday evening we attended the wedding of Joseph Thoroughman and Lynette Watters. it was a lovely candlelight ceremony. The bride was so beautiful as she walked up the isle on her proud father's arm. The bride's father Tim Watters and the groom sang a touching song called My Little Girl as Joseph pledged his love and to care for Tim's "Little Girl" before Tim gave her hand to Joseph. After the invocation Joseph sang a song he wrote to Lynette called Between your Heart and Mine. Then Tim gave the charge in his humorous way as he assured Joseph it was in his "best interest" to be gentle with Lynette and he charged Lynette that she would now submit to Joseph. The vows were exchanged, Bibles presented,unity candles lit, followed by a prayer of blessing by Joseph's grandfather. Concluding with Joseph and Lynette singing so eloquently To Serve Christ. Then the moment Joseph had been waiting for (so stated Lynette's father) as they were pronounced husband and wife. A reception was held at the Tecumseh Community Center. The menu included ham, scalloped potatoes, corn, green beans, and rolls. Lynette's mother, Esther out-did herself with her special recipe for the potatoes. The entire wedding was a lovely, touching, and Christ-honoring event from beginning to end. The newly weds are honeymooning in the heart of Amish country in Ohio. As Abigail stated at the conclusion of the ceremony,"Now they can live happily- ever after." May God grant that it be so. Congratulations Lynette and Joseph Thoroughman.

2008-10-11T11:15:00.004-04:00

What have you been up to?

September 27 Th was the Newman reunion for my Mother's family. I didn't take many pictures this year but I did get a photo of my Mother during the Memorial Service lighting a candle in Memory of my father. This is done for each of our grandparents, their children (and in-laws), grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. We always have a delicious meal and Mom of course brings her famous home-made noodles. Naomi enjoyed hunting for the bubble gum in the whipped cream without using her hands. I believe my granddaughter won that race. They also enjoyed painting ceramic crafts. I enjoyed meeting all the new grandchildren that my cousins have had born into their families over the past year. Of course we always have a great time at the close of the day with the hot dog roast and chili/bean soup and the hay ride. One of my second cousin's grew her own mum's (over 300) for her wedding last fall and this year she brought them to sell at the reunion. The huge attraction at the reunion this year was a box of photo's that my cousin brought which belonged to his mother (recently deceased) who was a collector of pictures. So many memories were re-lived as we dove into this treasure chest of memories. The annual live and silent auction was so much fun as always. I purchased a couple items my crafty cousin Dianna made. One was a fall wreath for my father's grave. The other was I am saving as a Christmas gift so I shall not mention it who knows who may be reading my blog. LOL

Well the following week my daughter Naomi, granddaughter Abigail and I stayed with my mother. Mom had carpel tunnel surgery on her left hand. We went with her to the out patient surgery and as the nurses were prepping her getting IVs hooked up Abigail said, "I feel sick." She couldn't stand seeing them stick needles into her "nanny." In her defense Abigail really did come down with a 24-hour bug that caused her to be sick and have a fever but recovered quickly. Mom got along very well throughout the week and it has helped her with the pain and numbness she was experiencing. I came home on Sunday and imagine my surprise when she called me on Thursday to say that when she went to the doctor to have her stitches removed she also set up her surgery for her right hand for next Wednesday. So here we go off to Mom's next week. LOL Bless her heart she would do the same for me in a heartbeat! Abigail is excited to be homeschooling so it gives her the freedom to go with me. Her only request was NOT to go in the room where they put needles in "nanny."

2008-09-22T11:12:00.003-04:00

Love, Respect, and Fun

Friday Phillip and I went to Tony and Sarah's home and ate pizza then Hannah kindly babysat Naomi, Abigail, and Zachary while we left to attend a Love and Respect video conference produced by Emerson and Sarah Eggerich. http://www.loveandrespect.com/index.php It was the same as the live Conference Phillip and I attended in Troy, MI several years ago. We enjoyed it just as much as the first time. What a wonderful refresher course on the need for a wife is to be LOVED and the need of a husband is RESPECT. The knowledge of these truths was spoken with such humor and yet so pointedly that we couldn't miss it.

The conference was a 2-day event so Saturday morning we left the children in Hannah's capable hands to attend the final sessions. We were finished by 1:30. The church we are attending http://www.raisincenterfriendschurch.com/

had a Family Fun Day. So after the conference we went to the church park where Hannah had already taken the children. There was food, a hay ride, volley ball, three-legged race, a moonwalk for the kid's, Bible quiz games, pumpkin painting, a cake walk, and a bonn fire. Over the course of the day there were over 100 people who attended. It was a huge success and so much fun. Thank you Hannah for once again making it possible for us to attend the conference and Thanks to Tony and Sarah for going with us. What a full and enriching weekend!

2008-09-12T23:50:00.001-04:00

A Gentle Reminder

Today started as usually.. having more things to do than time to do it in.. I was so behind in work.. I was trying top rush and get it all in... You make mistakes when you do that.. I am 5 hours behind and need to rush!!I have several items to mail and thought I would mail them tomorrow. I decided I had to get the items out now. We have a storm headed our way.. I really didn't have time to go, but I went anyway..I arrived and there were 12 people in line.. Oh my, I will be here for awhile... People were in line and you could sense their restlessness.. toes were tapping on the floor, fingers on the counter.. no one was a happy camper.. An elderly man wasin the line.. I would find later he is 97!Finally the moment arrives and I place all the packages on the counter. The Postal Lady starts doing my packages.. out of the corner of my eye, I see the elderly man start to shuffle back in... he goes to the back of the line to start over..As soon as I finish, I head out the door.. but, something inside tells me to stop and ask this man how old he is.. I tap him in the shoulder and ask.. He replies "97" ... I leave and as I start to put my key in the car.. Something inside.. says.. STOP!!!! I know it was God, but I didn't have time to stop, I had places to be.. I am in a rush!! I am 5 hours behind!!!!I listened to God... I went back inside the post office and the same man is waiting patiently in line..now there is 14 people in front of him. I can sense that he is blessed just to take another breath.. He is not in a rush.. he is taking each breath of God in patience! I gently tap him on the shoulder and say "Sir, I will wait in the line for you and pay for your package" He turns and his gentle old gray eyes.. say "Thank you"... Suddenly, the postal worker behind the counter said: "Ma'am... that's o.k... have him come to the counter..".... Everyone started clapping for this man and this elderly man turned and smiled at all..(Yes, I am in tears as is everyone in the line" .. )Suddenly the Post Office Changed.. Everyone turned to the person next to them and said: "Have A God Blessed Day"... Frowns turned to smiles and the kindness in the room was more than most people could take.. Doors were being opened... Gentle whispers of happiness were being shared... At that moment.. "Not having enough time to wait" turned into a lesson of life and what awaits!As I left, I saw the elderly man in his car.. He had left several moments before I.. Why was he taking so long to leave.. .. Oh yes God.. I see...Because he is not in a rush... He is taking each moment with a single breath...Take time today to show kindness and remember that life is not to be a race.. it is to be taken with a single breath.... Who knows, by slowing down, you may feel the presence of God working within you...May you all have a very blessed day.....

2008-09-03T23:09:00.006-04:00

The Mill House B&B

http://www.themillhouse.com/

Saturday, August 30th Phillip and I headed for Grand Rapids, Ohio http://grandrapidsohio.com/ in honor of our 34th anniversay.

The Garden Room

http://www.themillhouse.com/garden.htm

We enjoyed this room on Saturday but we were moved to another room on Sunday because another couple had reserved it that night. We later discovered it was a Soldier and his wife who was being deployed for Iraq on Monday. They were sharing one last oasis of privacy and peace.

Sunday morning August, 31st (Our Anniversary) we shared breakfast with another couple who were from Columbus, Ohio on the terrace. It was a lovely meal. Tasteful in looks and content. We had a fruit cup, egg souffle, sausage, mini bagel, and scones. Then we attended a church in the area. We came back to our room and just spent time together. In the afternoon we took a walk to the dam. Notice the small island in the background. Phillip and I sat on the bench here on this island late that evening and did some smooching. LOL Very romantic for whispering sweet nothings. This fall it will be completely renovated with a new bridge and flowers.

Phillip and I enjoyed the Terrace and the beautiful flower gardens just outside our Garden room.

2008-09-03T12:48:00.010-04:00

An Invitation to Swing

This 1/2 mile path led to the dam with some swings and benches along the way.
Birds and Ducks congregate on this shallow river and many people walked here also
Kyak and Canoe rental were available

Phil walking the Maumee River
Walking the Dam
Steps to the River
The Canal behind the Mill House

Day Dreaming by the River

Fishing and Playing ~ this part of the river is only about 2 feet deep and children and adults enjoyed activities here. There are state parks on both sides of this lake. Who would have guessed that 45 minutes from our home was this nice getaway.
Sunset on the Maumee
34 years together

The Canal Boat (The Volunteer) is pulled by mules. We had planned on Monday to take a ride but it is closed on Monday so we will have to come back another time.

inside the canal boat
Tee-Na-Beek Room
We stayed in this room Sunday night. It was a small room but so artfully decorated.
The signature refreshment served at breakfast and bedtime were these delicious Scones. Some were filled with fruit and others with Chocolate chips.
Sitting by the entrance of the canal. The steps come right down to a picnic table.

2008-09-02T23:33:00.012-04:00

Feasting and Drinking Butterflies

http://www.butterfly-house.com/

On Monday after Phillip and I checked out of the Mill House B&B we walked across the street to visit the Housley House Bed & Breakfast. Several people told us how nice it was and they gave free tours every day to anybody who walks in. It was very impressive also and the owners were so friendly. http://www.thehousleyhouse.com/

Don and Teresa told us as we were leaving of places of interest nearby. So after finding the mule drawn boat ride closed we went to the Butterfly House in Whitehouse, Ohio. They have over 500 species of butterflies that are awesome to behold! The butterflies devoured bananas and drank from sponges. There was also a small pond in the back yard with a few big goldfish and a couple baby ones. There is also a waterfall and music playing by the pond with a stone bench to sit and relax. In the nearby flower garden there is an iron bench shaped as a butterfly. What a delightful weekend

MY Butterfly mate
A new-born Moth

Watch your step
Unusual markings
So close I could have picked it up ~ it never moved
Hide N Seek

Butterfly Rules
Mating Butterflies ~ The employee who was in the room said this is an unusual moment to capture on film. This was the first time even she had seen this here in the room.
The butterflies would land anyplace ~ on your back, on your clothes, or on the floor (so watch your step)
This butterfly was injured but still able to fly away
What an amazing day I spent enjoying some of God's small but beautiful creations flying so near me.

2008-09-02T22:58:00.005-04:00

HAPPY LABOR DAY

A few of my favorite people people in the world to share a cook-out with. After returning from a memorable weekend with my better half Hannah and Sarah had a nice picnic planned at Munsen Park. It was a very relaxing day. Thank you to the girls who cared for their sister Naomi till we returned home.

Naomi
Hannah
Sarah, Tony, Abigail, & Zachary

2008-07-31T23:50:00.002-04:00

Zachary what will you think of next?

Do you suppose he is double-jointed?

Makes me hurt just to see this.

2008-07-18T12:22:00.004-04:00

HAIRBRUSH EXPERIENCE OF BETH MOORE AT THE AIRPORT

For those of you who do not know Beth Moore, she is an outstanding
speaker and Bible teacher, and the author of several excellent Bible
studies. She and her husband of a number of year live in Texas and have two grown daughters. This is one of her experiences:

April 20, 2005, at the Airport in Knoxville , waiting to board the
plane, I had the Bible on my lap and was very intent upon what I was
doing. I'd had a marvelous morning with the Lord. I say this because I
want to tell you it is a scary thing to have the Spirit of God really
working in you. You could end up doing some things you never would have done otherwise. Life in the Spirit can be dangerous for a thousand reasons not the least of which is your ego.

I tried to keep from staring, but he was such a strange sight. Humped
over in a wheelchair, he was skin and bones, dressed in clothes that
obviously fit when he was at least twenty pounds heavier. His knees
protruded from his trousers, and his shoulders looked like the coat
hanger was still in his shirt. His hands looked like tangled masses of veins and bones.

The strangest part of him was his hair and nails. Stringy, gray hair
hung well over his shoulders and down part of his back. His fingernails
were long, clean but strangely out of place on an old man.

I looked down at my Bible as fast as I could, discomfort burning my face. As I tried to imagine what his story might have been, I found myself wondering if I'd just had a Howard Hughes sighting. Then, I remembered that he was dead. So this man in the airport....an impersonator maybe? Was a camera on us somewhere? There I sat; trying to concentrate on the Word to keep from being concerned about a thin slice of humanity served on a wheelchair only a few seats from me. All the while, my heart was growing more and more overwhelmed with a feeling for him.

Let's admit it. Curiosity is a heap more comfortable than true concern, and suddenly I was awash with aching emotion for this bizarre-looking old man. I had walked with God long enough to see the handwriting on the wall. I've learned that when I begin to feel what God feels, something so contrary to my natural feelings, something dramatic is bound to happen. And it may be embarrassing.

I immediately began to resist because I could feel God working on my spirit and I started arguing with God in my mind. "Oh, no, God, please, no." I looked up at the ceiling as if I could stare straight through it into heaven and said, "Don't make me witness to this man. Not right here and now. Please. I'll do anything. Put me on the same plane, but don't make me get up here and witness to this man in front of this gawking audience. Please, Lord!"

There I sat in the blue vinyl chair begging His Highness, "Please don't make me witness to this man. Not now. I'll do it on the plane." Then I heard it... "I don't want you to witness to him. I want you to brush his hair." The words were so clear, my heart leapt into my throat, and my thoughts spun like a top. Do I witness to the man or brush his hair? No-brainier. I looked straight back up at the ceiling and said, "God, as I live and breathe, I want you to know I am ready to witness to this man.

I'm on this Lord. I'm your girl! You've never seen a woman witness to a man faster in your life. What difference does it make if his hair is a mess if he is not redeemed? I am going to witness to this man." Again as clearly as I've ever heard an audible word, God seemed to write this statement across the wall of my mind. "That is not what I said, Beth. I don't want you to witness to him. I want you to go brush his hair."

I looked up at God and quipped, "I don't have a hairbrush. It's in my suitcase on the plane. How am I supposed to brush his hair without a hairbrush?" God was so insistent that I almost involuntarily began to walk toward him as these thoughts came to me from God's word: "I will thoroughly furnish you unto all good works." (2 Timothy 3:17)

I stumbled over to the wheelchair thinking I could use one myself. Even as I retell this story, my pulse quickens and I feel those same butterflies. I knelt down in front of the man and asked as demurely as possible, "Sir, may I have the pleasure of brushing your hair?"

He looked back at me and said, "What did you say?" "May I have the pleasure of brushing your hair?" To which he responded in volume ten, "Little lady, if you expect me to hear you, you're going to have to talk louder than that." At this point, I took a deep breath and blurted out, "SIR, MAY I HAVE THE PLEASURE OF BRUSHING YOUR HAIR?"

At which point every eye in the place darted right at me. I was the only thing in the room looking more peculiar than old Mr. Longlocks. Face crimson and forehead breaking out in a sweat, I watched him look up at me with absolute shock on his face, and say, "If you really want to." Are you kidding? Of course I didn't want to. But God didn't seem interested in my personal preference right about then. He pressed on my heart until I could utter the words, "Yes, sir, I would be pleased. But I have one little problem. I don't have a hairbrush." "I have one in my bag, "he responded.

I went around to the back of that wheelchair, and I got on my hands and knees and unzipped the stranger's old carry-on, hardly believing what I was doing. I stood up and started brushing the old man's hair. It was perfectly clean, but it was tangled and matted. I don't do many things well, but must admit I've had notable experience untangling knotted hair mothering two little girls. Like I'd done with either Amanda or Melissa in such a condition, I began brushing at the very bottom of the strands, remembering to take my time not to pull.

A miraculous thing happened to me as I started brushing that old man's hair. Everybody else in the room disappeared. There was no one alive for those moments except that old man and me. I brushed and I brushed and I brushed until every tangle was out of that hair I know this sounds so strange, but I've never felt that kind of love for another soul in my entire life. I believe with all my heart, I - for that few minutes - felt a portion of the very love of God. That He had overtaken my heart for a little while like someone renting a room and making Himself at home for a short while.

The emotions were so strong and so pure that I knew they had to be God's. His hair was finally as soft and smooth as an infant's. I slipped the brush back in the bag and went around the chair to face him. I got back down on my knees, put my hands on his knees and said, "Sir, do you know my Jesus?" He said, "Yes, I do." Well, that figures, I thought. He explained, "I've known Him since I married my bride. She wouldn't marry me until I got to know the Savior." He said, "You see, the problem is, I haven't seen my bride in months. I've had open-heart surgery, and she's been too ill to come see me. I was sitting here thinking to myself, what a mess I must be for my bride."

Only God knows how often He allows us to be part of a divine moment when we're completely unaware of the significance. This, on the other hand, was one of those rare encounters when I knew God had intervened in details only He could have known. It was a God moment, and I'll never forget it. Our time came to board, and we were not on the same plane. I was deeply ashamed of how I'd acted earlier and would have been so proud to have accompanied him on that aircraft. I still had a few minutes, and as I gathered my things to board, the airline hostess returned from the corridor, tears streaming down her cheeks. She said, "That old man's sitting on the plane, sobbing. Why did you do that? What made you do that?" I said, "Do you know Jesus? He can be the bossiest thing!" And we got to share.

I learned something about God that day. He knows if you're exhausted, you're hungry, you're serving in the wrong place or it is time to move on but you feel too responsible to budge. He knows if you're hurting or feeling rejected. He knows if you're sick or drowning under a wave of temptation. Or He knows if you just need your hair brushed. He sees you as an individual. Tell Him your need!

I got on my own flight, sobs choking my throat, wondering how many opportunities just like that one had I missed along the way. . . all because I didn't want people to think I was strange. God didn't send me to that old man. He sent that old man to me.

John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We Have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."

Life shouldn't be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather, to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly shouting, "Wow! What a ride! Thank You, Lord!" Don't tell God how big your troubles are - tell your troubles HOW BIG your GOD is!

2008-07-15T14:00:00.002-04:00

GRANDsons

LUKE
STEVEN
JASON
TIMMY
AARON

2008-07-15T12:41:00.003-04:00

AARON

Phillip, Luke, Steven, Jason, Merrie Beth, (holding) Aaron,

Timmy in front

The New Parsonage part 1

The new parsonage part 2

Luke

2008-07-14T18:41:00.004-04:00

Even Captain Phil took a turn at the wheel. For more pictures of the the Ducks see

bransonducks.com

Jason with his Quacker
Monkeybuziness is in the Mall at Ottawa, Kansas. They had a huge place full of inflatable games and climbing toys like McDonald's has.
Luke sliding down the inflatable slide
Monkeybuziness even had a section for children 3 and under Aaron played in.

Timmy is swinging on the hanging swing.

2008-07-14T17:30:00.003-04:00

Monday was a QUACK-tacular Day!

A duck is a vehicle that tours the streets of Branson and then has the ability to drive into the lake and cruise the lake. it is designed after the original WWII DUKW. Every passenger is given a quacker that looks like duck-lips so we can quack at other Ducks as they drive by.

We drove up on Knobber's Mountian and viewed the boat docks below.
Along the one-lane road up the Mountain we saw many privately owned army vehicles such as the one below.
The part that excited the children most was that after we were out in the lake they were each allowed to drive the Duck under Captain Lynette's watch.
Naomi had a quack-tastic time!

2008-07-14T16:31:00.005-04:00

A Quiet Sunday

This is the auditorium where we watched a church group perform Smoke on the Mountain Saturday evening. On Sunday a family who travels in evangelism held Sunday worship service.... singing and sharing a devotional which we attended.
On the way back to our rooms we stopped at an over-view of the town of Branson. Their were some trails that the children thought was an adventure.
Back at the Motel we had a picnic lunch and then in extremely warm temperatures we baptised

the kids.
It was too warm I guess for anybody else to brave the sun so we enjoyed it .
The cutest little fishy in or out of the water

2008-07-14T15:41:00.003-04:00

Pierce Arrow sang many gospel songs and gave a message of Salvation. Some of my favorites were I can Only Imagine and Spirit in the sky. Most of their singers or musicans once were part of other more familar groups such as Gaithers. A must see concert!

Playtime Pizza was a hit with the children. It included a hugh buffet with many items besides pizza and an indoor race track and 2 floors of games for all ages.

2008-07-14T14:50:00.003-04:00

Fun 4 the kids

Bumper boats, they also road bumper cars and race cars but they went so fast it was difficult to get a good picture.
Steven bungee jumping
riding the horseys
Frog jumping contest before the outdoor drama called Shepherd of the Hills was performed
at the conclusion we enjoyed the Fireworks

2008-07-14T14:16:00.002-04:00

War Memorial Museum

50 life-size soldiers storming the beach

Our little Soldiers
Steven (I'm in the Lord's Army)

2008-07-14T13:22:00.004-04:00

Red Skelton Tribute Show

At the Mansion
We laughed, and laughed, and.....

2008-07-14T12:45:00.003-04:00

First plane trip

We weren't sure how Naomi would respond to her ride but she was so excited and enjoyed it thoroughly. The stewardess gave her a First Flight certificate and her own pilot wings. At the end of her flight she was introduced to the Pilot and Co-Pilot.

Co-Pilot and Naomi

Naomi even sat in the Pilot's seat
NWA Pilot and Naomi

2008-07-03T11:47:00.002-04:00

Gone on Vacation

will return with pictures

2008-06-23T14:51:00.002-04:00

Sister of the Groom

Tiffany Melton

Isaac & Heidi Clark

The kissing Couple

The Wedding Cake

2008-06-22T23:42:00.003-04:00

Off to Nanny's and a Wedding

Wedding Guest

Savannah Mayle and Abigail Watters

(our niece and granddaughter)

Naomi

Heidi and her Father (Terry Newman)

6/21/2008

2008-06-14T23:02:00.002-04:00

Our Blessings

(honest I wasn't pinching Aaron)

What a Swinger!
Could it be.....the next rocket scientist ?!

2008-06-14T21:56:00.002-04:00

The Hayride was the Highlight of the Day

Timmy feeding the ducks
Luke in a Tree
Our little Tadpoles

2008-06-14T20:52:00.004-04:00

Aaron Playing

Jason feeding the goat
Grandchildren on the Merry-go-round
Zachary feeding carrots to the goats
Timmy Constructing a tower

2008-06-14T19:53:00.002-04:00

A morning at the Park

At Dominos Farm
Jason
Steven
By the Duck Pond

2008-06-14T19:13:00.002-04:00

Timmy (in back)
Hannah holding Aaron
Indian Princess Abigail
Luke the Baker & Taster Tester

2008-06-14T18:25:00.003-04:00

My tree Frogs

Aaron

Zachary & Abigail

Jason, Abigail, & Steven
Steven

2008-06-14T17:55:00.006-04:00

Guess who came to visit?

Merrie Beth and the children drove in from Kansas this week and we thoroughly enjoyed having them. We had so much fun. Aunt Hannah gave the kids a swimming pool for the really warm days. Then we took them to Dominos Farms Petting Zoo where they also got to go on a hayride. Abigail and Zachary came over and even stayed all night with us and had a sleepover. Luke helped me make cookies. Then on Thursday night Timmy, Steven, & Jason stayed all night with Zachary and Abigail. On Saturday Hannah took them to play putt-putt. Grandpa took them to get ice cream after church Wednesday evening and then Hannah took them again after playing putt-putt. Many more pictures are to follow!

2008-06-14T00:43:00.005-04:00

The Rest of the Story

I'm sure if you have read my blog since the first of the year you are familiar with the story of my intended trip to Kansas. I went to Ohio on Friday intending to catch my flight on Tuesday only to find out when I arrived that Skybus had gone bankrupt. Well here'sssssss the rest of the story:

We bought 2 plane tickets in October using our debit card through United Bank & Trust and 4 days before our flight (April) Skybus Airlines went bankrupt. Skybus informed all customers to ask the credit/debit card companies who we used to purchase tickets to contact them for a full refund. United Bank & Trust asked me to come in and sign some papers which I did to begin the process of getting back our refund. After a month I called them to find out where my refund was and I was told that because the purchase of the tickets was more than 90 days before the bankruptcy it was their policy to not go after a refund for our tickets. Now tell me how I was suppose to put a claim in 90 days before the airline even went bankrupt! Never purchase a plane ticket using your debit card. We also bought 6 other tickets using our credit card and guess what ..... the NEXT WEEK we were refunded the full amount.
Now that I've gotten that off my chest.......it's in one of those "life is SO unfair Mystery bags."

2008-05-27T13:30:00.002-04:00

Strawberry Time

My mother's berry patch is producing quality berries from which she created a luscious Shortcake

2008-05-27T12:08:00.002-04:00

Memorial Weekend in Review

Saturday I attended a wedding Shower for my cousin's daughter. The bride to be is Heidi Newman. Her fiancee is Isaac Clark (brother to Tiffany Melton, missionary to Honduras). The lovely couple will say their wedding vows on June 21, 2008.
My niece Monica Myers provided the beautiful
decorations for the wedding shower from her collection of teapots. My husband and grandson Zachary worked on a project making crosses for my father and brother's graves. The finished job looked splendid.

2008-05-23T13:44:00.003-04:00

Books & Breakfast

Today Abigail had Book & Breakfast Day. Parents or grandparents were invited to come to school for donuts/bagels and juice, milk, or water. Then Abigail and I went to her room where she had several little articles that she had written which she read to me. Abigail offered to read me part of her journal which she writes in several times a week about any topic she chooses. That was very interesting to listen to the thoughts of a second grader. She even wrote that her grandmother had a birthday and was 52 years old! Thanks for telling my secret Abigail! LOL It was a very enjoyable time of sharing with a very special girl! Thanks for inviting me Abigail. And special thanks to Becky Arnold who came to sit with Naomi so that I had this opportunity to make memories with my granddaughter.

2008-05-15T18:25:00.004-04:00

Abigail's Grandparent Book

Grandparent's Day at Abigail's School

I know that usually Grandparent's Day is celebrated in the fall but at Summerfield School it is in May. Each of the classes sings a couple songs and some of the teachers spoke of fond memories of their Grandparents. If you can see a little girl in a red blouse on the top row on the right hand side that would be my sweet granddaughter, Abigail. One of the classes sang I've Got Peace like a River.

I thought that was remarkable for a public school. Of course there were other songs that I'm sure the older grandparents could relate to such as Blue Suede Shoes. Of course that was before MY time. ha ha

After the program we were invited to visit our grandchildren's classroom.

Abigail presented me with a little booklet she had written and read me a story.

Then she walked home with me.
Isn't she precious?!

2008-05-12T22:41:00.002-04:00

My Darling Mother

My sister (Victoria), Mom, & me
Mom's gift ~ this was an oil painting on canvas
Mom & Angel

2008-05-08T15:21:00.001-04:00

Naomi enjoyed the Mother-Daughter Banquet also

2008-05-06T12:40:00.003-04:00

2008 Mother of the Year

Our Women of Worth group choses a Mother of the Year for each Mother-Daughter banquet. This year our daughter Sarah was chosen. I was priveleged to write the tribute honoring her. It is as follows.

Sarah Jean Avery was welcomed fresh from the hand of God into the home of Phillip and Cathy Avery and sister.....Naomi on July 16, 1977. Sarah was her parent's little "princess" which is the meaning of her name. She brought joy into their home. Having an older sister who is developmentally challenged forced Sarah to become the older sister in many ways. At an early age Sarah became her mother's right hand and could be counted on for assistance in bringing a diaper and picking up toys. Sarah was there to welcome her only brother into the family 2 years later. Then her baby sister Hannah arrived 2 years after her brother, Phillip. Sarah began kindergarten at Milan School District. When her family moved to Ohio she attended her first Christian school at Wesley Christian School. Then attending Malta Christian School when her little brother was old enough to attend school. In 1986 the family moved back to Petersburg, Michigan and she enrolled in Holiness Christian School. With pride Sarah's parents watched her excel in school. Sarah became interested in playing the piano so quickly a piano teacher was found and soon Sarah developed the talent God bestowed upon her. Perhaps because of her sister's handicap Sarah matured quickly and was a very dependable young lady. She was sensitive to the Lord's knock upon her heart and opened the door of her heart to Him early in her teen years. At age 16 she graduated from high school. In the fall she left for college but not before giving her heart away to Tony Watters. She attended Union Bible College for 2 years then on Nov16, 1996 Sarah became Mrs. Tony Watters. January 2, 2000 was a very exciting day for the new family as they stuffed Sarah in the back seat with her mother and grandmother for the whirlwind trip to St. Joesph Hospital as they begged Sarah to please wait to have the baby she just couldn't wait to deliver. Sarah did make it to the hospital but just barely. Abigail Dawn was such a delightful easy going child like her mother. She brought such happiness into Sarah and Tony's life. Perhaps this sweet healthy baby caused her parents to momentarily forget that life also has battles that helps build faith in God. But their faith would soon be tested for two years later on Dec 9, 2002 Zachary David Watters was born with a Cranial syndrome that required 2 serious surgeries. Sarah was a model of Motherhood as she stayed by his side and prayed for him. She has made so many trips to the U of M Hospital that she feels like she could do it blindfolded. And for Zachary this will be an on-going process. Zachary told his grandma when he is scared at the doctor's visits his Mom helps him because she is with him.The stress of her son's syndrome began to sap Sarah's own physical and emotional strength. But her doctors weren't very helpful. Offering cliches instead of relief. Then Sarah's world became darker as she experienced 2 losses within 14 months of each other. God held her up with the loss of each child. Finally Sarah found a doctor who would listen and within minutes diagnosed her with Fibromyalgia. Though this disease may never offer recovery, it was a relief for Sarah to know that the symptoms she suffered from had an origin and she continues to be strong through it all. With God's help her disease may go into remission. She is a beloved daughter, dear sister, dependable Mother and devoted wife. She loves God with a fervent heart. Sarah has been an example of tenacity (refusing to give up) though the trials are severe. Sarah is a hard worker. She has worked as a telemarketer, fast food server, resident aide, and day care provider. She enjoys, reading (especially Karen Kingsbury) and scrapbooking. She collects apple decor in the kitchen, and Thomas Kincaid in the living room. As a sister in Christ Sarah is exemplary. She is caring and always ready with a listening ear. Though she may not have all the answers she is always ready to cry with you in pain or rejoice in your blessings. Zachary says he knows his mom loves him because she let him buy rollerskates and he loves her because she makes the best brownies for his preschool class. And there is never any left to bring home. Abigail says her Mom is the best because she loves her Dad. There is no doubt in Abigail's mind that if God chose a Mother of the Year He would chose HER Mother.

2008-05-06T12:11:00.001-04:00

2008 Women of Worth Mother-Daughter Banquet

Me (Cathy) Naomi, Sarah
3 Generation

(back) Me "Cathy", Sarah

(Front) Naomi, & Abigail

2008-04-28T12:04:00.002-04:00

Even God's Handiwork shall reflect His Glory

I am so happy to enjoy my flowers again.

2008-04-25T12:07:00.002-04:00

Aaron was thrilled to held by his cousin Savannah

Even cousin Stephen received some happy smiles

No little boy is happy without building something. Cousin Raymond enjoyed helping the boys build a fort.

Welcome to our fort.

2008-04-22T12:32:00.002-04:00

I've Been Tagged!

Let's see...rules first. Each player answers the questions about themselves. At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and posts their names.

What I was doing 10 years ago: :) Working, being a mother, enjoying life to the fullest...

Five things on my to-do list today:1. Cook 2. Babysit, Go to the Library 3. Laundry 4. Pay Bills 5. Update my blog

Snacks that I enjoy: Regular Potato Chips, Pizza Rolls, Honey buns

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:1. Buy a new church and parsonage2. Make sure I was completely debt free 3. Pay off all of my family's bills 4. Buy an expensive car and house 5. Give to Missions.

Three of my bad habits:1. Interrupting People2. Talking too much and too loud 3. Eating too much.

Five Places I have Lived:1. Milan, Michigan2. Petersburg, Michigan 3. Zanesville, Ohio 4. Philo, Ohio 5. Pt. Pleasant, WV

Five jobs that I have had:1. Factory Worker2. Babysitter 3. Substitute teacher's aide for special needs children 4. Teacher's Aide at a Christian School 5. Took in Ironing

Five people I want to know more about (A nice way to say TAG!)....1. Ruthann A. 2. Genene B. 3. Norma Watson 4. Leah P. 5. Chris B.

2008-04-21T14:01:00.003-04:00

Aaron petting his friend ~ Boots

Steven must be missing school. He found a workbook to practice with.

Sweet smiling Timmy

2008-04-21T13:34:00.003-04:00

Naomi shared her radio with Aaron

All too soon Friday evening came and Phillip, Merrie beth and children were on their way back to Kansas. We miss you already. It is good to know you are in God's hands.

2008-04-21T12:30:00.005-04:00

Happy 8 th Birthday

Jason and Steven
Jason was very creative with the party hats!
One of the twin's birthday gifts were kites

On Thursday Jason and Steven turned 8 so their father and grandpa took them for a couple hours of simulated golf then on to the Dairy Queen for Banana Splits. They ended up at Lowes to pick up supplies to do a household project for my Mother. The twins chose pizza for their birthday supper and ice cream cake from Dairy Queen. They had a wonderful time. One of their main high lights while visiting was exploring the woods on my mother's property. You would have thought they were Christopher Columbus discovering the world. The difference between the flat lands of Kansas and the hills of southern Ohio was extraordinary to them!

2008-04-21T11:21:00.003-04:00

Ready for Church

Aaron

Savannah, Jason, Steven, Luke, & Timmy

Jason, Savannah, & Steven

Jason played his recital piece for Grandma

Luke "playing" too

One of the most Blessed moments during our vacation was Wednesday night listening to our son preach the Word of God and worshipping with his family.

2008-04-21T01:27:00.002-04:00

Vacation Snapshots

Aaron

Jason & Steven and Nanny's dog ~ French Fry

Luke

Timmy

It was great to see our son, daughter-in-law and grandsons from Kansas once again. All the boys had grown so much. Steven looks so mature with his new glasses. They enjoyed hiking through my mother's woods so much. None of the children (not even the baby) were hesitant with us and as long as we had food in hand anybody could be Aaron's best friend. The weather couldn't have been better. My mother and I cooked all the comfort foods of home for them. Our son Phillip and my husband went to a facility where they could play golf with a simulator. The week went all too fast.

2008-04-11T01:02:00.003-04:00

Lord Willing

We will be travelling to my mother's home tonight. My husband has gotten a week's vacation from his job. Our son, daughter-in-law, and their family has also taken the week off so if God provides all of us protection we will be with our family from Kansas soon.

Regarding the refund for the tickets from Skybus my bank wasn't very encouraging that we would receive a refund for the 2 tickets purchased with my debit card, using the excuse that the tickets were purchased more than 3 months in advance. The other 6 tickets I purchased for Merrie Beth and the 5 children were reserved with my credit card and the card company informed me that the request that they sent online to Skybus went through. Now we trust these refunds come through in God's timing. God IS Good! Be in touch when vacation is over.

2008-04-07T00:20:00.003-04:00

Man plans......God Laughs!

Well if you read my previous post you know that I had plans for traveling. I arrived at my mother's home and Phil unloaded my luggage. Luggage enough for 2 1/2 weeks. We had just decided to retire for the night and the phone rang. My sister had just been informed by the news that SKYBUS had gone bankrupt, which happened to be the plane I held 8 tickets on. This was their announcement: Dear Skybus Customer:We regret to inform you that Skybus Airlines will cease all operations effective 12:00 a.m. Saturday, April 5. As a result, your Skybus flight has been cancelled.Skybus will not be processing refunds directly. To arrange for a refund on your reservation, please contact your credit card company directly. If you purchased flight insurance for your reservation, please refer to your insurance confirmation from AIG for information on filing a claim.Skybus struggled to overcome the combination of rising jet fuel costs and a slowing economic environment. These two issues proved to be insurmountable for a new carrier.We deeply regret the impact this decision will have on our customers, as well as our employees and their families, vendors, suppliers, airport officials and others in the cities in which we have operated. Our financial condition is such that our Board of Directors felt it had no choice but to cease operations.

So I returned home to Michigan to begin the process of having my reservation refunded. God has given me a Heavenly peace in the midst of this sudden change of plans. I can only credit Him and those who prayed. Knowing that God's Way is the Best Way has kept my Spirits buoyed. It is not my place to grumbled or complain about how He directs my path. If the Lord allows my son to be able to get the entire week off work during the time that Jason and Steven are on Spring Break then we trust they will be driving to Ohio instead of flying. We are trusting God for the details for He knows Best!

2008-04-04T15:37:00.003-04:00

I'm leavin' On A.......

Today I am traveling to my mother's and then on Tuesday my sister-in-law will take me to the airport in Columbus and Skybus will take me to Kansas. Friday I will return with my daughter-in-law and five grandsons. We will take over my Mother's home until she prays for Blessed Quietness. My son will fly into Columbus to join his family on the 16th and then sadly they will fly back to Kansas on the 19th. My husband and I will return home on the 20th hopefully with lots of pictures. I'll miss you all but I'm excited to see our son and his family too. Keep us in your prayers, please for traveling safety. We will think of you often. God Bless till we meet again online. Love you ALL!

2008-03-31T15:03:00.001-04:00

Hannah Eve Avery

3/29/1981

Happy Birthday dear daughter

2008-03-24T14:11:00.001-04:00

"Easter Lilies"

MOM

Naomi Ann

2008-03-15T16:58:00.004-04:00

Spring

New Beginnings

Look what I found today!

When I see tender new sprouts poking up through the soil of my flower beds my first musing is of new beginnings. A new opportunity to see God's handiwork. That leads me to the thought of Easter and the benefits of the Cross. It was there of the Cross that God provided mankind the opportunity to have a new beginning by the redeeming blood of Christ Jesus. Old things have passed away and all things are made new. Christ removes the old dry deadness that was once in our lives and brings beauty in it's place. The Cross is the "sprout" that graces our life and as we walk with the Saviour daily we grow and develop then show others the Handiwork of God with our example. Soon flowers will take the place of those tiny sprouts and a fragrance will fill the air. May each of our lives be a sweet smelling fragrance that pleases our Heavenly Father and blesses our world. Jesus thank you for the reminder each Spring of the New Beginnings which You offer "whosoever will" accept the Gift of Salvation. May we each bloom for your Honor and Glory. Amen

2008-03-06T01:15:00.002-05:00

The Concert

When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the mother returned to her seat and discovered that her child was missing. Suddenly, the curtains parted and spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage.To her horror, the mother saw her little boy

Sitting at the keyboard, innocently picking out"Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star."At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano, and

Whispered in the boy's ear," Don 't quit . . . Keep playing."Then, leaning over , Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in a bass part. Soon his right arm reached Around to the other side of the child, And he added a running obbligato.Together, the old master and the young novice

Transformed what could have been a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative

experience.The audience was so mesmerized that they couldn't recall what else the great master played. Only the classic," Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star."Perhaps that's the way it is with God. What we can accomplish on
our own is hardly noteworthy.We try our best, but the results aren't always

Graceful flowing music.However, with the

Hand of the Master, our life's Work can truly be beautiful.The next time you set out to accomplish great feats, Listen carefully. You may hear the voice of the Master, whispering in your Ear," Don 't quit . . . Keep playing."May you feel His arms around you and know that His hands are there, helping you turn your feeble attempts into true masterpieces.

Remember, God doesn't seem to Call the equipped, rather, He equips the 'called.'Life is more accurately measured by the lives you touch than by the things you acquire. So touch someone by passing this little message along.May God bless you and be with You always! And Remember ,……" Don 't quit . . . Keep playing."

2008-03-01T00:55:00.001-05:00

Abigail serving my birthday cake

Birthday Roses from my husband

2008-02-29T14:14:00.007-05:00

Yes, this is a Leap Year and I have waited for 4 years to celebrate another birthday. First my daughter, Sarah wrote such a nice post on her blog commemorating my birthday. This morning I awoke to a Divine birthday kiss from Phillip and then a phone call from my sister-in-law, Lisa. Then my mother called and reminisced about the afternoon I was born. Then my Aunt from Texas called with birthday wishes and we had a lovely visit. Hannah and Zachary went shopping and bought me a lovely birthday cake. I received birthday cards from several family members. I opened my e-mail and there was the sweetest birthday note from one of the dearest pastor's wives I have had in 52 years. Ruth Anne is like one of my own daughters. She blesses me to call me her "Church mother." She has such a Christ-like spirit. Then I signed onto a favorite website (MyHoliness) and more friends had wished me a happy birthday. My phone rang again and there was my son and grandson, Timmy calling from Kansas. I went out to get the mail and when I came back in realized I had a voice message from my brother-in-law from Kansas calling to say Happy birthday. Abigail came home from school then she cut and served Naomi, Zachary and I birthday cake after they sang Happy Birthday To You.... Later Phillip, Naomi, Tony, Sarah and their children enjoyed a meal with me at Big Boy Restaurant. During supper our twin Grandsons, Jason & Steven called my cell phone to add their greetings. Then my husband bought me roses and Tony & Sarah's family bought me some of the Love Comes Softly series. Thank you everybody for making my day so special.

Zachary is enjoying this snowy February 29th (Leap Day).

2008-02-25T13:45:00.002-05:00

Happy Belated Birthday, Naomi

2/2/1976

On Groundhog's Day Naomi celebrated her 32 nd birthday. We were at my mother's (whom Naomi was named after) home. So needless to say she was spoiled rotten. LOL Naomi was born on her grandma and grandpa Avery's 25th anniversary and it was also her grandma Avery's birthday. For her birthday she received a coat, some new tops, a gift card from McDonald's, and some cash gifts. On her birthday we had a pizza party with her aunts, uncle, and cousins plus parents and grandma. She had 3 different cakes. She asked for a white cake with white icing which Aunt Lisa made, grandma made cupcakes, and we bought an ice cream cake. So we celebrated for 2 days. We love you, Naomi.

2008-02-20T12:41:00.002-05:00

Apple Dumplings, Anyone?

I had several apples that needed to be used and decided this was the best way to get the family to enjoy them. As you can see the ones in the middle were taken first. I think there are 2 left at this time.Better Hurry! LOL

2008-02-15T15:56:00.003-05:00

I've been Tagged!

I was tagged to do a "Meme" by Cheryl Watters. The rules are as follows:Pick up the nearest book of 123 pages or more. No cheating!Find Page 123.Read the first 5 sentences.Post the next 3 sentences.Then tag 5 people.

The book nearest to me is "Portraits of Praise." A devotional for women. On page 123 is a devotional by Kandi Boardman....Reflecting the Son's Love.

However, cut and polished, kept free of dust and hung up to the light, it received the sun's rays and reflected them in beautiful, rainbow colors throughout the room. Lord, I am not worth much all by myself. I ask You to keep me free from the dust of this world.

I'll tag:

1. Sarah Watters

2.Hannah Avery

3.Ruth Anne Arnold

4.Becky Arnold

5. Sue Arnold

2008-02-15T15:27:00.002-05:00

The Sweetest Valentine

(toothless Angel)

2008-02-15T15:04:00.002-05:00

Grandpa Remembered Zachary too

Thank You for the Candy & Flowers

Happy Birthday, Dearest.....1/15/54

2008-01-25T12:07:00.000-05:00

God's Holding Pattern

By Pastor Cornelius F. Warren

Many times God will allow a painful situation or a painful circumstance in

our life to "swallow us up." This season in our spiritual growth is a holding

pattern. We can't move to the left or the right. All we can do is sit, like

Jonah sat in the belly of that great fish, so God can have our undivided

attention and speak to us.

God put Jonah in a holding pattern because He needed to speak to his heart.

Jonah was alone. There were no friends to call; no colleagues to drop by, no

books to read; no food to eat, no interference, and no interruptions. He had

plenty of time to sit, meditate, and pray.

When we're deep down in the midst of a difficult situation, God can talk to

us. When He has our undivided attention, He can show us things about

ourselves that we might not otherwise have seen.

A Few of God's Holding Patterns:

1.When you are sick in your physical body and you have prayed but God has not

healed you yet, you are in a holding pattern.

2. When you are having problems with your children and you have put them on

the altar but God has not delivered them yet, you are in a holding pattern.

3. When you have been praying for the salvation of a loved one and they have

not been saved yet, you are in a holding pattern.

4. When you are in a broken relationship and you have given it over to God

but it has not been restored yet, you are in a holding pattern.

5. When the doors slam shut before you can knock on them, you are in a

holding pattern.

When we are deep in the belly of a difficult situation, there are no

interruptions. Hence, God has our undivided attention. All we can do is sit,

meditate, and pray.

We cannot run from God, because there are no mountains that are high enough,

valleys that are low enough, rivers that are wide enough, rooms that are dark

enough, or secret places that are hidden enough from Him.

We must remember to praise Him while we're waiting and remember three things:

1. The pattern has a purpose.

2. The pattern has a plan.

3. The pattern has a process.

So stop struggling and start listening, praying, and trusting. He'll keep you

right where you are until you can hear Him clearly say, "I love you."

Prayer:

Father, heal my unbelief. I know you love me and will turn everything around

to benefit me. You have planned nothing for me but victories, and I am ready

to receive them regardless of how difficult the path. Amen

Today's Thought:

When God measures a man, He puts the tape around the heart instead of the

head.

2008-01-12T00:45:00.000-05:00

Naomi, Phillip and I watched the New Year come in alone this year. Our year began with attending our granddaughter, Abigail's 8th birthday. She thinks she is so grown up now. We love her so much. The first Sunday in the New Year we were blest to attend a candle light service at our church which included commune. What a sacred time. The sanctuary was so lovely. Now why didn't I have my camera with me?

Then our grandson Steven had his eardrum punctured and the doctor is allowing it to heal on it's own with God's Mercy we pray. Aaron, our youngest grandson (10 1/2 months) had tubes put in his ears by the doctor. His hearing loss was upgraded from severe to moderate. We are very grateful. He will still require hearing aides but the loss is less that thought at first. God has blessed us already this year and whatever the Lord brings in this coming year (whether good or ill) we are determined to trust Him and serve Him anyway. Our pastor spoke so eloquently on this subject and I appreciated it so much. God Bless each of you throughout the coming year.
Happy New Year!