February 25, 2013

How did Monday get here so quickly?  It seems like it was just Friday!  Actually it feels like it was just New Years and now we are almost done with February.  How do I have a 20 year old son, a 17 year old son and a 10 year old daughter already?  It's all going way too fast.  But I can't slow it down,  I just have to hold on and enjoy every minute.

On Saturday I worked with my little angel Jannine at her cookie booth for girl scouts.  We had so much fun being with our friends Debbie, Sofia and Izabella Ferjiani along with Leah Howarth.  Then the Ferjiani family and Jannine and I went to the Heron Hoopla at Vineland Elementary.  It was great fun but I did way too much walking around. 

Sunday was a wonderful time at Church ... I love that our service is recording.  I have a hard time taking notes so it is nice to be able to review online at www.fbcov.org .  Then Jannine spent a couple hours with the Ferjiani family swimming while I finished up my homework.  Then at 5pm we left with Becky and Jessica Blalock to go to Secret Keeper Girl!  What a precious time with my little angel.  It is a program that shows little girls ages 8-12 how precious they are to the Lord.  It also talks about how they are to dress modestly.  Jannine loves the time together praising the Lord and getting closer as Mother and Daughter.  It was fun sharing it with our friends this year. 

So, then on to today that started out quite exciting. I had to run to the bank to make a very small deposit.  I thought it would be a very quick trip.  However, that was not the case.  Upon arriving at the bank I got out of my car and almost got run over by a large pick up truck.  At first I was ticked thinking this idiot was just driving crazy. I went into the bank to find the person at the drive thru window.  I mentioned to the teller what happened outside.  Then I watched in horror as I saw him blow up in anger with the tellers.  When the driver did not get what they wanted... the person drove around to the front of the bank and stormed in!  I was very afraid as they walked in.  He was screaming at the tellers, demanding they close his account and acting crazy.  My first emotion was fear!  Then I sprang into action calling 911.  Then finally I felt pitty for this person.  What is so bad in his life that made him so very angry?  He finally left the bank walked outside and paced around his truck.  Then drove around the bank several times.  I don't know what happened to him after that but all I could do was pray for him.  I don't suppose he knows the Lord.  Who hurt him so bad?  I prayed for him today and asked God to put just the right person in his life to help him come to know the Lord.  I was thankful that all the ladies in the bank plus myself and another lady were safe.  It was frightening.  You just don't think something like that would happen in our little town.  But in the end times we are told these things will happen. 

My verse of the day is John 6:36 which says Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.

I pray some how that man will learn that God is the answer and can make his life worth living.  Pray for those you come in contact with that are like this person.  Pray that some how God will reach them.  Don't get angry, don't respond and make things worse, just pray. 

Today, stop and enjoy the small blessings so you can truly appreciate the big blessings God has for you.  Today I am thankful to be alive and unharmed.  Amen

February 22, 2013

Today is a glorious Friday.  Another beautiful day to look for blessings and be a blessing.  I am so excited that I get to spend the morning with my best friend Jackie going to a yard sale.  Then off to Myakka River to have lunch with my sweet Jannine and after she returns home from school we are going to a Pampared Chef party.  In between all those activities I will rest and do some homework.  I am excited about the day today.  I love days like this.  Yesterday my hubby Jeff was in a great deal of pain and had not really slept all night because of it.  We have no idea what causes these flair ups.  But, it is terrible when he has them.  Praise the Lord he is MUCH better today and had a great night sleep.  Today is going to be a really good day ... I can feel it.

Today's devotion was about marriage lasting until death do us part!  So many do not take that vow seriously.  Hebrews 13:4 says, "Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the secually immoral and adulterous."  When you say those vows, do you mean?  The same goes for our relationship with God.  When things get tough, how do we act?  Do we blame God?  Or, do we stop and take credit for our part in anything that might be going on.  Joshua 1:9 says, Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous.  Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." 

I enjoyed the morning with my friend at a large Church rummage sale.  I got some really great deals.  Then I had lunch with my little girl and now I am home to rest before doing an activity this evening.  It's a beautiful day.  Be a blessing to someone today. 

Stop and enjoy the small blessings that God has for you today!

February 21, 2013

Good Thursday morning,

It's another beautiful day here in Florida.  I am looking forward to a wonderful day.  Last night one of my very best friends and mentor in life became a Grandma.  Her grandson Benjamin William was born just after 6pm weighing 6lb 1ounce.  I am so excited for her and happy he has been born.  My friend has walked me through so many stages of life by being the example.  New life is always exciting.  I remember back when we had our first child.  That excitement and fear that came over us all at one time.  At times I long for that new phase and yet other times I remember the sleepless nights, crazy schedules, and nights filled with tears (mine not the child), not knowing what to do or where to turn.  I think I will stay right here in this phase of life. 

I don't know what God has planned for me today.  It is just after 10am and I need to get up and get productive.  I don't feel like doing anything though.  There are so many things that I could be doing.  I need to get the Girl Scout cookies sorted, I need to clean up the kitchen, I need to prepare a grocery list along with coupons for shopping, I need to do my homework, I need to loose weight and yet keep stuffing my face with Girl Scout cookies!  So I then get overwhelmed with the thought of all I need to do and just don't do anything accept, get more Girl Scout cookies off the kitchen counter and put them in my mouth.  UGH!  I hate days that are unproductive. 

I started a new Bible study on You Version calling Marriage the Journey.  Today's topic was drifting in marriage.  Hmm, kind of goes along with my procrasting thoughts this morning.  The devotion talked about a man in a canoe.  He sat in the canoe on a calm and quiet lake and decided to take a nap.  An hour later he woke to people talking and realized his canoe drifted to somewhere he never intended to go.  The marriage relationship can do the same thing.  You have to be careful that you do not drift somewhere you never intented to be.  The waters are calm, there are no issues, yet you drift apart and find yourselves in a place you never meant to be.  In other words we need to make sure that we are anchored in our path with the Lord.  Marriage is something we must always work on and carefully protect.  Life gets so busy, kids are going in various directions, work, school, stress all gets in the way!  We must STOP and take time to work on the marriage relationship.  We must make time for each other just like we must make time for God. 

We took a vow that said, Until till death do us part.  Did we mean it?  Was it something we just said in that moment or did we mean it forever?  It didn't say until we drifted apart ... it was until death do up part.  Commitment when things are going good means nothing.  It's when life gets hard and times are tough that true commitment really is either there or it is not.  Commitment is foundational to survivng conflict.  It enables us to focus on honoring God and serves as the fuel for us to work through our struggles with persisence and determination.  Matthew 19:6 says So they are no longer two but one flesh.  What therefore GOD Has joined together, let not man separate!  Instead of running, why not stay and work to fix things rather than run away. 

The verse today for this devotion was Proverbs 4:25-27 and I love it.  It says, Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you.  Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure.  Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil!  It is all so simple.  We need to focus our eyes forward on the Lord and take specific steps in the way God is leading us. 

If we keep our eyes on GOD and not the problem maybe we can work through them.  Don't get me wrong there are many times especially when there is abuse you must get out!  You can't get physically or emotionally hurt ... God doesn't say to stay there and be abused.  However, much of the time that is not the case.  People too quickly says, "I feel out of love" with someone.  That is a cop out!  Do you love God only when things are going good?  If times get tough do we run? 

So, like I say each day ... Stop and discover the blessings of the day today.  There is a blessing in each day, just look for it.  God loves you, just trust Him!  Have a great day today.  Now, I need to get busy and accomplish something.

February 19, 2013

Happy Tuesday.  Another beautiful day today!  It is nice and cool and beautiful outside.  The house is quiet.  The boys are out of town, Jeff is at work and Jannine is in school.  Today I am going to rest and continue to recover from all my activities last week. 

So, yesterday I had a huge concern that I mentioned yesterday.  I knew God had it all figured out, but humanly I was still so frightened.  I kept praying all the way to the appointment and the radio station I listen to, The Joy FM 88.1 played all the right songs to remind me to keep my focus on God and just trust Him.  That helped me keep my focus.  The appointment went so much better than I could have ever dreamed.  In a matter of minutes all was settled and God provided above all we could have imagined. 

My devotion talked about clinging to the Lord!  I am human and sin all the time.  I often cling to things of the world like MONEY!  I have to let go and let God do His work in ALL things, especially finances.  When we cling to things like MONEY and things of the world we tend to be fearful.  I am so guilt of this.  I worry all the time about paying bills and having enough money for food, things for the kids, etc.  However, at the beginning of 2013 I felt a strong tug at my heart that we should begin to tithe.  My husband does not make a large salary.  Don't get me wrong, we are so thankful for the job he has.  He has a wonderful boss who loves the Lord.  He enjoys his job and we are so thankful for the blessings of working there.  But, I couldn't figure out how we could possibly pay tithe out of that little bit.  But I talked with Jeff and we decided together it was the right thing to do!  And boy it has been amazing to see God's blessings.  I am blown away at the blessings.  The money isn't ours anyway.  We are to use all we receive to honor Him. 

Matthew 5:3-5  says, Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.  Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

February 20, 2013

Today my devotion with Daily Audio Bible was talking about the faith of a mustard seed.  We often believe that only celebraties have a following and make a real impact on the world.  They have a platform and can reach out to millions via Facebook, Twitter, TV and radio.  However, that isn't true!  Even you and I in our neighborhoods, at the local grocery stores, walking down the road can make an impact.  We have no idea who is watching us.  That is why we must be so very careful what we do, what we say and how we react to things in life.  We do not know who is watching us.  We have no idea what impact we are making on someone and we may never know until we get to Heaven. 

I find myself so busy at times that I don't have time to stop and spend time with God.  Why am I so busy?  Am I doing something of value or is it just busy work?  Matthew 5:5 it says, "Blessed are the meak for they shall inherit the earth.  II Corinthians 12:10 says, "For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities.  For when I am weak, then I am strong."  Then finally, Galatians 4:9 says, "But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more?" 

What are we so afraid of loosing in the world today?  I love my children and husband and that is all that I am really afraid of loosing.  However, money becomes something we all hang on to way too tightly.  Why are we so afraid to follow Jesus fully?  Matthew5:3-5 says, Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.  Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." 

If we could just realize that nothing here on earth, INCLUDING our children, belong to us then life would be so much easier.  I know that God has everything under control and yet I continually try and figure things out for Him thinking my way is always better. 

So, today remember to stop and be careful how you act.  Then figure out what you are holding onto that is not important.  Are you letting go and letting GOD do what He needs to do through you?  Or, are you a stumbling block to someone?  You are a link in the chain of influence in someone's life!  We have a job to do while here on earth.  Are you part of the army of God? 

Enjoy the day, stop and enjoy the small blessings so you don't miss them.  Then the big blessings will mean even more.  HAPPY Wednesday!  God bless you today and every day.

February 11, 2013

Happy Monday morning.  My Mom came in last night for a short visit.  It has been so nice sitting up with her this morning just talking a little bit.  I love having her here even if it is for just a short time. 

My verse of the day today is Proverbs 16:3 Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.  I so love verses like this.  It is a great reminder that I need to just let God take care of things for my life. 

Psalm 43:5 Why are you cast down, O my sould, and why are you in turmoil within me?  Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation.  And verse Pslam 78:7 says, so that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments;

So many times in my life I have laid out the plan and asked God to just magically make it happen.  I have had it all wrong for so long.  Having my Mom here makes me think back about how hard I searched for her.  I wanted to find her for so very long.  But God's timing was perfect.  Had I found her any earlier in life it would have possibly messed things up. 

Going through all I have it has been interesting to FINALLY learn what I am supposed to do.  Going through this Bible study I am learning that I need to confess my sins, I have learned how to put my hope in God, and now I can walk forward in faith and truly be fearless!  Not because of my strength but because of my GOD!  I know that God knows all and I know that He cares for me.  He has the whole world in His hands.  He has me right where He wants me. 

So, today try and learn what God wants you to do.  Don't forget to stop and enjoy the small blessings along with the big ones.  There is a blessing in each day ... what part of that blessing are you?

February 18, 2013

Happy Monday morning.  Today the high is 64 degrees.  I love this cold weather but my back does not.  I am going to go out and enjoy it today anyway.  The boys are in Orlando at Disney and Jannine has her friend over.  So we have just been hanging out and relaxing on our day off from school.  I didn't get to blog Sunday because it was a very busy day.  I had a lot of pain yesterday as well.  I guess I just did way too much last week with my Mom's visit and I haven't stopped since she left.  I don't want to miss out on anything so I just keep going even though I am in agony.  I need to learn to pace myself and be honest when I have done too much.  But I never want to be the person that complaines

We had some special guests at Church today.  We had some amazing missionaries and some friends from the past from Englewood Christian School days. 

So, I have a lot to catch up on.  Church the last two weeks has been incredibly amazing.  I learn so much there.  Pastor John Meyer is an incredible man of God.  He and his wife Sue have given their entire lives to serving God.  They have three beautiful girls, each with a heart for the Lord and a God, so that wha team that minister to young girls involved in prostitution in India.  She shared yesterday about their ministry and I was in awh of all they do.  You could see her light up when she was talking about how God has been working through her in this way.  Their second daughter Katie is on the board that Melissa is serving on.  And little Rachel serves the Lord with a great smile.  She can't speak but she doesn't need to.  She talks' through her smile and she just makes you happy when she is in the room.  She has her own little ministry.  She is a blessing. 

Last week John was talking about faith.  He quoted Warren Rearsby, "We trust His word and act on it no matter what the circumstances are or what the consequences may be.  We obey God's word and believe Him to do what is right and best".  I took a picture of the slide.  Our working definition of faith is fully trusting in the promises of the unseen God, so that whether safe and secure OR scared and uncertain, I know He loves me and only wants His best for me.  (The object of my faith is God and His revelation to me in the Bible).  Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.  I love that!  I need to remember that in every step I take of every day.  God loves me and only wants what is best for me.  He has my entire life, every breath, every step all taken care of. 

Today is one of those days that I need to remember this.  I was doing my taxes a week or so ago and found we were going to get a refund!  I was thrilled.  Then, I remembered I had one more paper that I had to input.  The information was from our home on Charlemont.  The bank and released us from the second mortgage.  We didn't ask them to do this, but they did it anyway.  So, when I input that information into the taxes that showed an income three times what we make in a year!  NOW, according this, we owe the IRS almost $4,000.  I was in an immediate panic and started crying.  I didn't know what to do.  I have an appoitnment today at 1pm with a tax person and am praying she can figure this out.  However, I know that God has it all worked out and whatever will be will be!  I am not going to fret about it at all.  If we owe, we owe and God will take care of it all.  I have to have peace and faith.

Ephesians 1:11 says, In Him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will.  Acts 4:28 to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. 

With the way life has been in the last few years I have had time where I have asked how much longer Lord?  How long do we have to be in this season of uncertaintly?  What am I supposed to be learning through this?  Am I missing something?  I am trying to let go and let God be in control, but it is so hard at times.  I need to have the attitude that no matter how frightened I feel, no matter how things appear, I will walk forward in the Spirit by faith, fearlessly.  I need to live by FAITH ... not by fear. 

I am thankful for a Church with a Pastor that teaches us this very thing.  Being in Church yesterday I was in awe of several missionaries who are living by faith in such an amazing way!  Some are taking small children and moving to another country to serve the Lord, others have been serving for years in another country ... that blows me away.  I don't feel God has called me to leave the country and serve but has planted me here in my current situation to be a missionary where I live.  When I am at the grocery store, when I am serving in my community, and especially when I am in my own home!  People are always watching ... do I live what I believe in all that I do? 

So, today I am thankful for an amazing church family ... FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CHURCH OF VENICE!  I am thankful for a Pastor and his wife (John and Sue Meyer), their family and all my friends and family that I am blessed to have in my life.  I am thankful for an amazing husband who really loves me for me!  I am thankful for three amazing children, each who are special in their own way.  I am thankful for a God who loves me in spite of myself.  I am blessed.  Today I am going to enjoy the small blessings because I don't want to miss a thing God has for me!  And as Pastor John says, "It's good stuff!" 

Have a blessed Monday! 

February 15, 2013

Happy Friday morning.  Today is a little cooler and very damp and rainy today.  The clouds are covering the sun and everything is wet from all the rain yesterday.  I love days like this, however my back and body do not.  I feel like I am out of my routine regarding time with the Lord.  I enjoyed my visit with Mom, but feel like I messed up regarding my time with God.  I have to be careful that life's clutter doesn't get in the way of my relationship with God.  I am NOT saying that Mom's visit is clutter!  I cherrish that time with her, but I need to continue spending time with God each day to refuel and prepare for His leadership and direction for each and every day.  Today I am back in the routine.  I cherrish this time in the mornings.  Daniel and Jannine are at school, Jeff is at work, and David is sleeping.  The dogs are in their kennels, the tv's are off ... the house is quiet as I listen to Brian Hardin of the Daily Audio Bible. 

Yesterday was Valentine's Day.  I had a wonderful time with my sweet hubby, my very best friend.  Unfortunately, the boys had to work, but Jannine was home with us.  We had steak for supper along with baked potatoe, and veggies.  Jeff grilled the steaks in the rain!  After super Jeff gave me a beautiful card, some candy and a solar powered rose.  The flower charges during the day and glows by night.  The beauty of the rose today just outside my bedroom window is refreshing.  It stands perfectly straight and the beauty catches you eye.  Then tonight it will glow when everything else is dark around it.  It makes me think that we as Christians should be the same as this rose.  We should be pleasant, refreshing, and stand out for the Lord.  We should glow the love of God!  The pedals are soft as we should be soft and loving to those who are around us.  We should stand firm, knowing that God expects us to not be of the world.  But, we need to love those around us and share God's love with everyone we meet.  I strongly believe that actions speak louder than words.  We need to LIVE what we believe no matter where we are!  In the grocery store, in our job, running errands and even more importantly at HOME!  We aren't perfect, we need to ask forgiveness when we make a mistake, and we must stay connected to God to refuel and follow His directions. 

We must always remember that God is God, GOd is good all the time and His purposes are right.  Deuteronomy 32:39 SAYS, See now that I, evene I, am he, and there is no God besides me; I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; and there is noen that can dliver out of my hand.

I am thankful that God has it all under control.  I just need to STOP take time and listen to His direction.  So, it is important that I spend time with Him each and every day so I can hear his instruction for me.

So, today, stop and enjoy the blessings of the day today.  If you don't enjoy the small daily blessings you cannot truly appreciate the big ones and might even miss them.  I want all the best God has for me and my family!  Have a great and blessed day!

February 14, 2013

Happy Valentine's Day!  Love is in the air, or is it?  There is no love in the air when you have a teenager in the house.  He doesn't care what holiday it is.  I have three amazing children but one of them is a teenager and raising a teenager is one of the hardest  jobs there is.  I try not to take it personally but it still hurts.  Driving home from dropping him off at school I started thinking how Jesus must feel when we act like that to Him.  He gave His life for us, and then we ignor Him.  We are often rude and use His name in vain.  How His heart must break when we act that way. 

My verse of the day is Matthew 16:15-16 which says, He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"  Simon Peter replied, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."  Do we love Him?  Do we curse Him?  Do we ignor Him?  Do we have a relationship with Him?

Satan works hard to make sure that life get's too busy for us to spend time in the Word.  Ephesians 6:12 says, For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rules, against the authroities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.  2 Corinthians 10: 4-5 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but have divine power to destroy strongholds.  We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. 

I haven't written for a couple of days because life has been just way too busy since Sunday afternoon.  My Mother came for a visit and left early yesterday morning.  It was a very fast and very busy visit, but wonderful.  She came Sunday night and we just visited for a while.  Then Monday morning, Jannine, David, Lauren and I went to Sarasota to have lunch with Roz.  We ate at the wonderful Der Dutchman resteraunt.  It is an Amish resteraunt.  The food is wonderful and the atmosphere is even better.  After we ate, we went upstairs and shopped in the Carlise Gift Shop and ran into Amy Palmer.  After lunch we went to Roz's home and got a complete tour of Sunnyside Village where she lives.  Mom is a property manager in a 55 and older community and enjoyed the tour.  She is taking some of the ideas back to her property in Ohio.  We then spent some time at the Sarasota Square Mall.  Jannine took Mom into a photo booth and had fun taking some pictures together.  She really loves her Ya Ya!  About 5:30pm we headed to the Sarasota Bradenton Airport to meet up with Jeff and Daniel.  Mom wanted Daniel to take her for a ride.  David and Lauren headed back to Englewood while Mom, Jannine, Daniel and Jeff went for a ride in the Eskew Sky Hawk N215HR!  They had a blast seeing all the beautiful lights of Sarasota from the air.  It was a perfect night for flying.  Then, we wrapped up the evening at Applebee's having an incredible dinner together. 

We came back home got some rest and then back up Tuesday for more fun.  We picked Daniel up at school and gave Mom a tour of Lemon Bay High School.  We wanted her to see all the new construction.  We then went to Myakka River and sat with Jannine during her lunch.  Then we met up with Jeff on Dearborn and had lunch at the Mango Bistro.  We then drove back to pick Jannine up from school and took Jessica home.  After a power nap we headed to the South Venice Pizza Hut to meet up with some friends for supper.  Matt, Lori and Nathan Phillips, Kevin, Jackie, Brad and Cody Frook, Shane, Donna, and Morgan Stewart along with their friend Jazzy, David and Erika Meadows (and baby), Tracy Williams, and of course, Jeff, Jannine and I along with Mom were there.  Daniel had to work at McDonalds so he couldn't attend.  And we were with David while he was working at Pizza Hut!  What a precious time we had together enjoying each other's company.  I have such amazing friends. 

So Happy Valentine's Day.  My heart is filled with LOVE as I think of all the wonderful people God has surrounded me with.  I am blessed. 

Dear Lord,

Please help me today and every day to appreciate all You have done for me.  I do not ever want to take for granted anyone You have blessed me with in my life.  I thank you Lord for the love You have given me.  Thank you for always being there for me, guiding me, and loving me when I am not very lovable.

Please bless all of my family and friends with LOVE today. 

In Jesus name Amen.

Don't forget, stop and enjoy the small blessings today.  There is a blessing in every day!  Don't miss it.

February 10, 2013

Happy Sunday.  Today Pastor John Meyer at Fellowship Bible Church of Venice did another fabulous message.  He talked in Hebrews 11 about faith.  It is by faith that we believe God created the world and He created it from NOTHING.  God called the world into existence.  My verses of the day are Hebrews 6:11-12 which are And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sliggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. 

A working definition of faith:  Fully trusting in the promises of the unseen God, so that whether safe and secure OR scared and uncertain, I know He loves me and only wants His best for me.  The object of my faith is GOD and HIS revelation to me in the BIBLE!  Hebrews 11:1 says Now FAITH is the assurance of things hoped for, the CONVICTION of things not seen. 

Esphesians 2:8-9 says, For by grace you have been saved through FAITH.  And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no none may boast. 

Today in Church we had a special service and renewed our wedding vows.  What a special service it was.  We took tons of pictures.  I love my husband so very much. 

I am so excited because my Mom is coming today for a visit.  I haven't seen her in almost two years.  I am looking forward to a great visit with her today.

February 9, 2013

Happy Saturday.  Today I started the day in a great deal of pain.  I guess I did too much yesterday.  My husband didn't get to work today AGAIN, so we enjoyed the morning just watching tv and hanging out together.   My mom is coming to visit tomorrow, so we have been trying to get the house together for her visit.  Jannine spent the night last night with a friend so things were so quiet around here.  I missed having her around, but I did enjoy quality time with my hubby. 

Todays verse was Proverbs 13:20 which says, "Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm." 

Each day we should try to share God's love in one way or another.  I don't like preaching at people.  Instead I like to live a life that shows God's love through me.  That is what we are supposed to do.  We are to "be Jesus" to others.  Colossians 1:10 says, "Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.  Then Matthew 28:19-20 says, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. 

So, today and every day, no matter how I feel, I need to try and live a life that is pleasing to God.  Even though I am in lots of pain daily, even though I have been hurt, even though I am having a bad day ... it DOES NOT give me the right to be nasty or mean!  I need to ask God to help me be the best person I can and be a blessing to everyone I meet.  We all have a bad day though and pray that someone will give us mercy when we need it.

Remember, enjoy the little blessings so you can enjoy the big one's as well.  God bless you.

February 8, 2013

Happy Friday everyone.  I have to admit today has been a weird day.  My back is bothering me a bunch.  Unfortunately I am stressing about stupid things.  I feel the devil is working over time on me today.  I went and had lunch with my little honey girl Jannine today at her school.  She always makes me smile.  My children and husband are so precious to me.  I am thankful that we are so close. 

I guess I am worried about finances a bunch.  I know God will take care of everything ... yet I still worry!  Why oh why do I worry?  I know I shouldn't.  After doing some grocery shopping this afternoon I came home and turned on the Joy FM 88.1 FM.  Jayar was on this afternoon and quoted the most perfect scripture that God knew I needed to hear.  Isaiah 30:15 this wonderful scripture says, For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, "In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength."  We are to STOP and be quiet and wait on God.  That is so hard for me to do, I have to admit. 

Ephesians 2: 10 says For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.  We are here to work for Him!  We are here for a purpose.

Today in my study it said to initiate a conversation with those the Lord brings across your path today.  Ask them how their day is going.  While doing that God will most likely open a door of opportunity.  You can offer to pray for and or with them. 

Once again, I had two opportunities to speak with people today without reading the devotion first.  I love it when God works like this.  I was getting gas at Sunoco tonight and mentioned to the gentleman at the next pump that I couldn't believe how expensive gas was getting.  Tonight it was $3.65 per gallon.  We started chatting and ended up sharing our testimonies with each other.  He and his wife attend Englewood United Methodist Church, he was adopted just like me, found him birth mother and family just like me, and loves the Lord JUST LIKE ME!  I found it so amazing to talk to a person I just met at the gas station and figure that we had so much in common.  I love talking about the Lord.   While at Jannine's school I had a wonderful conversation with a friend of mine Tammy.  I was feeling kind of down today and she was able to encourage me, reminding me that the devil is working overtime to take away my joy!  But, I won't let him do that.

So, tonight my hubby and I had dinner together, then came home and watched two movies together.  It was a mini date night.  No kids were home so it was just fun to hang out.  I really love him.  He is my very best friend.  I am so blessed.

Day after tomorrow my Mom comes to visit and I can hardly wait.  I will post pictures in my blog of some of our fun times.  It will be a short but amazing visit.

So, remember to stop, slow down and enjoy the small blessings ... so you appreciate the big blessings too.
God bless!!!!

February 7, 2013

Happy Thursday morning ...  The last couple of days have been a struggle for me for some reason.  I am rather angry with myself.  I am doing my Bible studies on living a fearless life.  I am learning about living by faith.  I have been faithful with my tithe and God has been blessing me and our family at every turn.  Then on Tuesday something happened that has put a damper on my joy and faith.  It's a silly little thing but it has been bothering me.  It's like a speed bump that I didn't see and fell on my face.  I keep thinking it must be the devil trying to knock me off my path of trust.  I was preparing our taxes and was excited to see we would get a nice size refund.  Then, I had one more entry from a bank we used to have a small second mortgage with.  The bank released us from our loan amount.  Back in 2008 we started a process to modify our mortgage.  We, along with hundreds of thousands of other families were having a hard time keeping up with our payments.  For two years I tried to get the company to work with us on our modification.  I was worried about being behind on the payments but the counselor I had been assigned to said that if we made a payment it would mess up our modification.  On February 1, 2010 I went to court to work out the details.  I had just got a job with the Phelan McDermid Syndrom Foundation and between that job and Jeff's we were able to make our payments.  The set amount was $980.51 per month, down from $1200.  We made our first payment on March 1, 2010 and never missed a payment.  However, in September 2010 our home was sold at auction without our knowledge.  So we have been misplaced since that time.  Praise the Lord God provided a home for us to live.  So, long story short, the bank released us from the loan but Uncle Sam considers that as income.  So, with that it takes away all of our refund and then makes us owe Uncle Sam almost $4,000.  Yikes!  But, once again I have to life by faith ... God didn't say oops here and I need to trust HIM.  He knows what He is doing. 

My verse today is I Corinthians 4:20 For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power.  I take that to mean we must walk the walk not just talk the talk.  We must believe and act on that belief.  So, I need not live in fear but live by faith trusting that God has this all taken care of.  Psalm 31: 1-9 is a Psalm of David.  In you, O Lord, do I take refuge; let me never be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me!  Incline your ear too me; rescue me speedily!  Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me!  For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name's sake you lead me and guide me; and you take me out of the net they have hidden for me, for you are my refuge.  Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.  I hate those who pay regard to worthless idols, but I trust in the Lord.  I will rejoice and be glad in your steadfast love, because you have seen my affliction; you have known the distress of my soul.  and you have not delivered me into the hand of the enemy; you have set my feet in a broad place.  Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; my eye is wasted from grief; my soul and my body also.  It goes on to speak of how weak we are as humans.  My favorite verse is 14 and 15, But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, "YOU ARE MY GOD."  My times are in your hand; rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from my persecutors!

He loves us!  We are His children crying out and HE WON'T FORGET about us!  He takes care of us.  Even though we were once slaves to the spirit and lived according to the lust of our flesh, carrying out our own desires ... HE still loves us!  He still rescues us.  Our minds get clouded with our own sin.  We can't see the forest for the trees sometimes.  God has been showing me every time I turn around that He has everything under control.  And yet, as I was doing my taxes and found myself in a panic, I forgot what He has done.  I ask God to help me see what He has done and remind me to share His blessings with others.  I don't mean to brag about what God has done.  I mean to share and encourage others by sharing how He has worked in our own lives. 

I Peter 1:6-9 says that we are to rejoice, even in the trials.  These trials are a test of our faith and they are more precious than gold!  Even though we have not seen Him, we love Him, we believe in Him and we rejoice that He loves and cares for us. 
The trials are most often not fun.  However, we learn so much from them if we let God work through them.  I know over the years there have been so many trials.  There has been so much hurt and pain but I have survived those times and am a better person for them.  One of the worst times in my life was back in 2001.  We were pregnant with our third precious gift from Heaven ... a child.  We had our two precious boys and were caring for a family member, a precious little girl.  We, of course, were praying for a daughter of our own.  I happened to stop in the doctors office to pick up more vitamins and mentioned to the doctor I didn't feel very well.  He took me into the exam room and did an ultra sound only to find out our precious baby had died.  I was devastated ... I remember my heart sinking and my entire body just aching.  Jeff was in Tampa at work and unreachable.  I felt so all alone.  I called my Mom, who called my Sister and our Pastor's wife Mrs. Metts.  I got home and they met me there to just love me through this time.  The next day I had to go to the hospital for the D&C.  My Sister drove me to the hospital and my precious husband Jeff met me there.  We spoke through the night trying to figure out what happened and why.  While in recovery I woke to a bald headed older gentleman.  My immediate thought was why God would you give me a man to care for me right now.  I needed someone who would understand my tears.  But God knew He was perfect to care for me.  He said, "I know you need your husband and will go get him righ tnow for you."  He then explained that he and his wife had lost SEVERAL children to miscarriage.  He was so wonderful and talked to Jeff about what to expect from my recovery and just told him to love me and let me cry.  He said to allow ourselves time to grieve because we had plans for this child and we needed time to do so.  God knew this was the perfect nurse to guide us through this process.  Later that year the world experienced 911 then on September 22, 2001 my Mother suddenly went home to be with the Lord!  So much loss... it was over whelming.  However,  I learned that when someone was suffering I needed to wrap my arms around them and love them.  Sometimes that is all that a person needs.  I need to be sensitive to others.  Even though they may have a smile on their face, they may be dying inside.

Today I got to spend a few more hours with my dear friend recovering from surgery.  I cherrish this time with her and we have been able to share our heart with each other.  I am thankful this friendship has been renewed and we plan to do more together with our families in the coming months.  I am sorry she had to go through this, but thankful for this precious time with both needed.

Take time and let someone know you love them.  Let them know they are not alone.  And as I always say, stop ... slow down... appreciate the little blessings so you don't miss the big ones!  Praise God no matter where you are in life and remember He didn't say oops!  He is carrying you, those are the foot steps you see in the sand.  We can do nothing without HIM!

Have a wonderful day and God bless.

February 6, 2013

Happy Wednesday!  It's hump day ... the weekend is just around the corner again.  Today I am staying close to home and getting things accomplished here that I need to do.  I am behind in my Bible reading and study so I wanted to focus on this early in the day.  I took Daniel to school today and on the way we stopped at Dunkin Donuts.  He bought me a coffee for taking him to school... so sweet.  I ordered a medium Iced Carmel Latte with 4 splenda ... YUMMY!  While driving Daniel to school I took a sip of my yummy coffee.  UGH, there was no splenda in my coffee or in the bag.  So, on my way home from dropping Daniel off I went back through the drive thru and asked for the splenda.  They were gracious and apologized for the error and gave me the splenda.  I put that in my coffee and headed for home.  UGH, even with the splenda I realized this was not the iced carmel latte that I ordered.  I made a U turn and went back a third time and explained this was not what I ordered.  They were very kind and gave me a corrected LARGE iced carmel latte and more splenda.  I could have gotten mad and thrown a huge fit, but I didn't.  It was a mistake and if I had lost my cool what kind of testimony would I have shown.  Prior to being in God's Word and feeling so much closer to Him lately, I would have probably been very angry about the errors.  If I had yelled, what would it have done anyway?  I would loose my testimony and ruin someone's day maybe.  And for what reason? 

My You Version verse for the day is  Matthew 7:12 "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets."  I find it so funny that frequently whatever God has laid on my heart to talk about is related to whatever the study or verse of the day is.  I hadn't read this until after I wrote the above paragraph.  That's awesome!

Psalm 19:9  says, the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the Lord are ture, and righteous altogether.  Psalm 111:10 says The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding.  His praise endures forever!  Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.  Proverbs 14: 26 - 27 In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge.  The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may turn away fromt he snares of death.  Proverbs 15:16 Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great tresure and trouble with it. 

What we have to do is ask ourselves, Who do we serve?  Joshua 24:15 clearly states that we are to figure out who we are going to serve!  Matthew 6:9-10 says, "Your kingdom come, YOUR WILL BE DONE, on earth as it is in heaven!  Do you believe that or is it just a prayer we recite with no connection?  Galatians 2:20 says, I have been crucified with Christ.  It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.  And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 

Exodus 23: 20-33 talks about the conquest of Canaan promised.  I find it so awesome how God says clearly that he sent an agel before them to guard then on the way to the place that He had prepared!  He sends His angels today to protect us ... the Holy Spirit guides us if we listen.  We have won whatever battle we face because God is in charge. He promises to care for us and provide all our needs as long as we listen and obey His instruction. 

A good friend of mine lost her Mother-in-love last night.  Nan went home to be with the Lord after a long battle of health issues.  My sweet friend took such good care of her for several years and made her last days on earth as wonderful as humanly possible.  I know today she is aching and wondering if she did enough ... but she did!  God has given her the ability to help people and love them.  She gives until there is nothing left to give.  She is the perfect example of living the life so that others can see God in what they do and say. 

Stop and enjoy the little blessings today so you can completely enjoy the large blessings when they arrive.  Take a moment and call the friend God laid on your heart today.  We aren't promised tomorrow ... maybe they need to hear Christ through your voice and words today.  Matthew 24:36 clearly states, "But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only!"  Psalm 103:15 -16  says, as for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field for the wind passes over it and it is gone and its place knows it no more.  We are here a short time and yet we have so much we need to do while we are here.  So take the time ... be a blessing.  Let people know you love them and appreciate them.  Stop and smell the roses ... a beautiful blessing God created for you today to enjoy. 

Have a wonderful day!  RIP Nan ... today you are in the arms of Jesus, living pain free, breathing easy and joined together again with your husband.  See you when we get there!

February 5, 2013

What a beautiful Tuesday it is!  The weather is starting to get a little warmer now ... so I guess the air conditioning is going to have to go back on today or tomorrow.  I spent another wonderful day with my friend who is recoving from surgery.  I just love those days to visit and catch up. 

While I was there I started doing my taxes.  I was doing really well and excited to see that we were getting a large refund.  But then, I put in one more piece of information and hit the button to find I owe the IRS almost $4,000.  How did that happen?  My immediate human reaction was to freak out.  But, I was quickly reminded that God is in control and He will take care of this situation just as He always done.  God never says oops! 

So many times in life things happen and we wonder why.  It isn't fair?  Why is someone else doing so well and we are struggling?  But, is that really true?  We don't really know what is going on in someone else's home.  I hope that when I go out and do my errands that others do not see the struggles I am dealing with.  I need to be happy and at peace because I am representing my Lord.  I give my burdens to HIM and I just keep moving forward, doing the best that I can with what I have been given. 

I think about our financial situation, Jeff's job, our living arrangement, our home being taken away, my health, and the list goes on.  However, for whatever reason I am where I am because that is where God wants me right now.  I am human so I do question but I have a peace like I have never had before. 

Life is not easy, but this life is not what it is all about!  Isaiah 41: 13- 14 says For I, the Lord  your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, "fear not, I am the one who helps you."  Fear not, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel!  I am the one who helps you, declares the Lord; your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.  Isaiah 43:1 says But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel:  "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.  Isaiah 51: 7 says "Listen to me, you who know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear not the reproach of man, nor be dismayed at their revilings.  We have been created to do His will.  We don't deserve anything good!  We deserve wrath and we deserve death! 

Matthew24:3- 14 talks about the end times.  There will be wars and rumor of wars.  There will be earthquakes.  People will hate us because we love Him!  All of these things must happen so the end times will come. 

Psalm 29 talks about the Lord's voice and His power.  The Lord loves us and we are His children.  So knowing this should give us great peace and rest because He has everything under control. 

All this being said and written we must continually remind ourselves that we are here on this earth to serve HIM!  We are to show His love and compassion in all that we do and say.  I heard an awesome song on the Joy FM 88.1 today titled "Let them see YOU" by Colton Dixon.  This song says ... Let them see YOU in me!  Here is the link to the song on You Tube.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8Be1on3JHk&ytsession=mill_ORnMv2hywJ_hYzNXUW5WWHdcYM4vyZEotHf3_QCbOKNxd3xh8GmwcntGg6tXO4-tQI4LJKSE7DqHtuVvSfftoZvmeDQQRP-p4t2Lzwgtzh7McUsx92Jo4XUvHfNgeMQylUtn9lsUp0SOjdShc5H-uL6PE9U_-s-apyydPXadx1cDFzwCu0Ii_l4GPEzV2QPdAKRJlhU4rCVwP2W5o1XEEEuBR6Rt7wrqr8mSr0

Take time and listen to the words of this song and read the lyrics as he sings it.  I wish I had a better link than what I posted, but at least this is the link.  It is amazing. 

So remember today, stop and enjoy the small blessings so you can truly appreciate the big blessings and Let everyone see God in you today. 

February 4, 2013

Wow, it's the first Monday of February already.  My how time is flying by.  It is a beautiful Monday here in sunny Florida.  I have all the windows open and just enjoy God's air conditioning.  My electric bill is so much better when the weather is nice.  I wish it would just stay like this.  When it is cool like this I often think of my Mom.  She LOVED it cold.  When my Dad would complain about being too cold she would say, Well Lloyd, you can go put on a sweater or I can take off all my clothes!  Daddy would always say, I'll go get my sweater Bertie.  They had such a fun relationship.  Silly little things remind me of them.  I so wish they were still here to see the kids growing up.  I miss their encouragement as only a parent can give.  I am so thankful for the wonderful memories that can never be taken away.  I take a lot of pictures because I don't want to forget things. 

Last night we had some of David's friend over to watch the Super Bowl and celebrate his 20th birthday.  This has become an annual tradition in the Walston household.  In my usual form, I took lots of pictures but this one is my favorite 

Today's devotion time was about standing back and considering the thought that everything that comes into your life, every moment, every day, every person, every experience, every circumstrance good or bad has been allowed, approved, affirmed or accomplished by God.  We need to ask God to help us see these things as His working in our lives to shape us to whom He has created us to be.  We need to understand who GOD IS!  God is in control, HE never says OOPS!  He is Lord!  He is KING!  He is our FATHER!  His purposes and HIS character are perfect and holy and righteous and JUST. 

When things are going well, it is easy to know that God is in control.  But when things are scary, it is much harder to remember this.  Psalm 19 and Psalm 29 talk about this.  Proverbs 3: 5 & 6 are my favorite verses.  I received a text this morning from my dear friend and mentor, expecting her first grandchild in March.  They went to the doctor today and found that her amniotic fluid is low and the baby isn't growing like it should.  These are one of those times that makes it hard to stop and trust.  It's the time you question, why.  But we have to remember that God didn't say oops and just trust and pray for God's direction, peace and healing.  It's times like this that we stop and realize how precious life is. 

So remember, stop and enjoy the blessings!  Each are amazing rather big or small.  We just need to be sensitive and learn to appreciate all God does in our lives. 

February 3, 2013

Today I woke in a great deal of pain again.  Ugh, I hate this at times.  I got up and took my final.  I got an A in the class over all.  So glad this one is over.  The final was a little tougher then I expected.  Then I tried to get ready for Church and just couldn't make it.  I hate it when I am in this much pain.  I feel guilty not going to Church.  Jeff was so sweet and cleaned up the house while I was trying get the pain under control. 

Today is the super bowl and we always have a party for David to celebrate his birthday.  He invited the Clapper's over along with Papa John and Lauren.  David and Erika stopped by for a while as well.  It was fun watching the kids laugh and cheer on the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers.  The lead coaches of both teams are brothers.  It has been interesting to listen to hear the parents talk about their boys and this very unique situation. 

When I have a tough day like today I love verses like I Chronicles 16:11-12 that says Seek the Lord and his strenth; seek his presence conitnually!  Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles and the judgements he uttered.  He does not leave us "home alone".  He is always with us and He loves us even when we aren't perfect!  God guards, protects and disciplines us.  I am not sure what I am to learn when I have days that I can't function.  Maybe I am supposed to SIT and be still. 

I love you Lord ... I am so sorry that I didn't get to Church today.  I really hate missing.  I have to be honest, I get nervous when I miss.  God has been blessing us and I don't want things to change.  I know that He doesn't really change things according to what we do or don't do.  But, I just want to stay in His will. 

I will try and write more tomorrow.  Hopefully tomorrow will be a little better day.  God bless ... and remember to stop and enjoy the little blessings! 

February 2, 2013

Wow, the last twenty four hours have been amazing.  I am enjoying the tiny and very big blessings in life.  My son turned 20 yesterday.  I still can't believe that he is 20 years already.  It really seems like yesterday that God placed him in my arms to love forever.  He towers over me now.  My heart bursts with pride when I watch him.  I love him more than life!  The above picture is our family.  From left to right ... Our little girl Jannine 10, David's precious girl friend Lauren, our birthday boy David 20, ME, our son Daniel 17 and my wonderful husband Jeff.  I am so blessed to have this core of people in my life.  Each of them bring me such joy.

I went in the morning and got him a breakfast bagel from Dunkin Donuts and got myself a coffee to celebrate.  I wonder why the Mom's don't get to celebrate these birthdays.  We are the one's who went through the labor to bring them into the world.  Whether a mother gives birth physically or gives birth through adoption the mother works hard to get that baby into her arms.  I came back and put a candle in his bagel sandwich and sang Happy Birthday to him while he peeked out from under the covers.  I had to bake some cookies for the high school fundraiser then go to have lunch with my little Jannine.  The rest of the day involved more errands and much resting in between activities. 

Then, I went out and got the mail on the way to get Jannine from the bus stop!  In a small envelope was a huge and very unexpected blessing.  There was a check in the envelope that I had no idea was coming.  Yesterday I got a bill, (or so I thought), from Sears.  I haven't had a Sears card in years.  I called asking why I had a balance of $50.  The sweet lady said, honey, it's not a balance but a refund.  We need to know where to send you the check.  WOW, thanks God!  Just before January 2013 I had a dream.  It was so very clear.  It was my Daddy.  He was talking to me about tithing.  He told me that God command that we tithe.  I told my Daddy that money has been so tight and every penny has a place and there was no budget for tithing.  He informed me that it was important to obey God's Word.  Matthew 22: 21 says, "Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."  Nothing here on earth is ours!  Our children are gifts to us, the money we have here, our homes, everything is GOD's!  Later in Matthew 22: 29 Jesus says that we do not know the scriptures nor the power of GOD!  How very true.  We often do not pay attention to the Bible or read what is commanded of us.  And because of that we miss the power and miracles of God!  I woke with such a burden but such fear about this.  That first Sunday in January I wrote the 10% tithing check and put it in the offering plate.  It wasn't a lot of money but as we have learned in God's Word that the widow's tiny amount of money was more than the rich man's large amount of money.  I won't share all the specific details but God has blessed us more than we could ever imagine.  Our lot was sold next to our Charlemont home.  90% o the money is going to pay of the back taxes owed, but praise God that will be removed from our credit in a positive way and we will have a little cash to pay bills, some of my college text books sold and on and on.  I am amazed at what God has been doing in our lives.  Jeff and I have been reading God's Word and spending time with Him each day.  It has changed EVERYTHING!   I have so much peace.  I have a stronger faith unlike anything I have ever experienced. 

I say all of this NOT to brag in any way shape or form.  I say it to share that if we TRUST and OBEY God... He will take care of us.  He will bless us!  It may not be blessings of finances, it might be blessings of time with people, it might be peace, comfort ... look at all the little blessings!  My verse of the day is John 11:40 Jesus said to her, "Did I not tell you that if you believe you would see the glory GOD?"  WOW, how cool is that?  It is SO very true.  I belive and I am seeing the glory of GOD!  Joshua 4:19-24 is another amazing passage about the miracles of God.  Israel was able to pass over Jordan on dry ground.  God dried up the waters of the Jordan and the Red Sea.  We are to realize that Lord God is mighty and He can take care of whatever the situation is even dry up the waters so His people could safetly cross.  I am thankful God is my Father! 

I want to remember these amazing times, good and bad, so I will be reminded of God's leading in my life.  I want to remember how He cared for us.  As our Pastor John would say, "It's good stuff!" 

Thank you Lord for everything.  I am worthy of NOTHING, but thankful that You love me in spite of myself.  Remember to enjoy the blessings, big and small.  Don't miss a thing God has for you today.

Have a great day. 

February 1, 2013

Happy Friday!  And a very special Happy 20th Birthday to our oldest son David.  I cannot believe he is 20 years old.  It seems just like yesterday that he was placed in my arms to love and care for.  I remember when they handed him to me he was so warm.  He was the first person that I ever met that was blood related to me.  It was overwhelming to hold my first child in my arms.  It was exciting and scary all at once.  Oh how I always wanted to be a Mother and now on February 1, 2013 at 5:15pm I had arrived.  He was 8 pounds 9 ounces and 21 1/2 inches long.  He was perfect, ten fingers and ten toes.  My Mom, Jeff and I were all together when I delivered.  Oh the joy ... and it has never stopped.  I knew being a parent would be the biggest job I had ever done.  It is a job that once it begins it NEVER stops!  My husband and I knew we wanted to raise our children to love the Lord and follow him.  They are precious gifts given to us to raise and give back to God. 

Galatians 5:16-17 says But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.  For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the the things you want to do. 

I love Psalm 91, the entire chapter.  We are to walk by the Spirit but we also have the comfort of protection as it says clearning in this passage.  Verse 4, He will cover you with his pinions, and UNDER HIS WINGS you will FIND REFUGE!  I love that. 

2 Chronicles 20:15 says, And he said, "Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat:  Thus says the Lord to you, Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's.  Verse 17 says, You will not need to fight in this battle.  Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.  Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed.  Tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you. 

Galatians 2:20 says, I have been crucified with Christ.  It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.  And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

I believe these are the important things to teach our children.  I always tell them that if they love, believe and follow the Lord ... He will love, believe and direct them in their daily walk!

Raising children is the most important job there is to do.  As parents we have to teach our children to be careful and to make good choices.  When they are little we teach them to hold our hand when they cross the street so as not to get hit by a car or get lost.  As they grow we teach them not to touch the burners on the stove because they are hot and will hurt you.  We teach them to be honest ... to be kind ... and to be accountable.  I have always tried to be honest with the kids that even I make mistakes.  Nobody is perfect and we must apologize when we are wrong.  I saw this on my Facebook page and wanted to include it in my blog today.  I love this and wish all our children AND ADULTS would understand this. 



Today the weather is cold!  It is beautiful outside.  The wind is blowing, it's sunny and cold!  I LOVE IT!  I believe the high today is expected to be 67 degrees.  I am going to have lunch with my little girl at school then come home and rest and then enjoy dinner with the entire family at Olive Garden to celebrate David's 20th birthday.  I keep writing it because I can't believe it!  His precious girl friend Lauren will be joining us.  Check out my Facebook page later because as you know, I will be posting pictures!  Just call me KODAK!

Go out and make it a great day!  Enjoy the little blessings and be a blessing to someone today!  Love ya!