37 Blessings

Birthday Wishes

2011-10-24T10:54:00.003-04:00

Happy birthday to my dear husband.

As I was thinking back over the years, I was reminded that the first clear memory I have of interacting with him was at a church singles fellowship where we sang Happy Birthday to him.

I asked him his age.

I didn't believe he was THAT OLD (24) when he told me so carded him on the spot.

Neither of us had a clue about what the future held. :-)

Culture Sale

2011-09-26T11:47:00.004-04:00

On Facebook my talented daughter-in-law posted LAST WEEK: "I am currently having a major sale on all my fine art prints!! This will only be going for two weeks so be sure to take advantage! All prints are now starting at $12 instead of $30!! Please take a look!"

If you've been wanting to purchase a print of one of Maryn's beautiful paintings available on her site at Fine Art America, now is the time to act! OR if you just want to look, no purchase is required! For more info on Maryn and of her pictures on exhibit, look at this and this.

She & Jacob are doing well. A year into their married life, I live the reality of most mothers of married kids: I don't get to see them often enough.

But when I'm feeling lonely for them, I've got Facebook! :-)

Training the Ear

2011-09-20T08:08:00.004-04:00

Caleb & Rachel have been taking piano lessons since last January, with Rachel enjoying the bulk of the lessons during the summer while Caleb worked at SACK.

Rachel has recently began to seek out simple sheet music versions of songs which she likes to learn to play. ("WooHoooo!" says Mom.) The latest of these is "Rocky Top". There was a problem though; our memory of how the song was supposed to sound was different from how the notes were written. Not vastly, but enough to make us tilt our head & say, "That's not right."

So today I sat down with the song sheet & a blue pen & plunked-out (thank you Brother Scott for that properly used term) the song, locating & correcting the wrong notes. It was satisfying to hear the song played properly. We were happy to recognize the right, familiar tune.

Made me think about truth. God's truth is gleaned from His Word. Rightly applied truth is satisfying in our lives. Sometimes we hit a wrong note but His guidance gets us back into playing His song. How I pray that we are so in tune with His Spirit and His Word that we recognize any inappropriately played music, the wrong notes grate on our ears so we say "that's not right" then seek out the Truth so we are not stuck playing the wrong notes. Harmoniously restored.

Juggling to Beatles

2011-09-07T11:44:00.005-04:00

My Aunt Elaine has been sending me lots of entertaining things. This one of a man juggling to a Beatles song is one of the best. Hope you enjoy it too.

The Juggler

On youtube this is called "Chris Bliss Juggling Act - Beatles" and notes he is performing to "Golden slumbers", "Carry that Weight", and "The End"

There were comments that stated he wasn't that great of a juggler but I think he's a great entertainer!

Quick up-to-dates from my FB

2011-09-02T12:18:00.003-04:00

http://www.andiesisle.com/creation/magnificent.html Beautiful pictures of the world & song "I Believe" courtesy of Aunt Elaine.

Every individual should make it their duty to display an American flag on this tenth anniversary of

one our country's worst tragedies.. We do this in honor of those who lost their lives on 9/11, their

families, friends and loved ones who continue to endure the pain, and those who today are fighting

at home and abroad to preserve our cherished freedoms. So, is YOUR flag ready?

Planted seeds in my little garden today: broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, carrots, spinach, lettuces, squash, beans. Squeezed them in amongst the peppers, grape tomatoes, strawberry (just one), basil, parsley & multiplying onions. Stan has plans to build me a mobile greenhouse. :-)

Heart Attacks in Women

2010-12-16T08:26:00.002-05:00

My Aunt Louise sent this to me in e-mail form. I decided to share it with you. :-)

I looked for it on spam sites & didn't find it so hope it has reliable info. If you know differently, please comment to correct. Thanks!

Author Unknown

NURSE'S HEART ATTACK EXPERIENCE

I am an ER nurse and this is the best description of this event that I have ever heard. Please read, pay attention, and send it on!

FEMALE HEART ATTACKS

I was aware that female heart attacks are different, but this is the best description I've ever read..

Women and heart attacks (Myocardial infarction). Did you know that women rarely have the same dramatic symptoms that men have when experiencing heart attack.. you know, the sudden stabbing pain in the chest, the cold sweat, grabbing the chest & dropping to the floor that we see in the movies. Here is the story of one woman's experience with a heart attack.

'I had a heart attack at about 10:30PM with NO prior exertion, NO prior emotional trauma that one would suspect might have brought it on. I was sitting all snugly & warm on a cold evening, with my purring cat in my lap, reading an interesting story my friend had sent me, and actually thinking, 'A-A-h, this is the life, all cozy and warm in my soft, cushy Lazy Boy with my feet propped up.

A moment later, I felt that awful sensation of indigestion, when you've been in a hurry and grabbed a bite of sandwich and washed it down with a dash of water, and that hurried bite seems to feel like you've swallowed a golf ball going down the esophagus in slow motion and it is most uncomfortable. You realize you shouldn't have gulped it down so fast and needed to chew it more thoroughly and this time drink a glass of water to hasten its progress down to the stomach. This was my initial sensation--the only trouble was that I hadn't taken a bite of anything since about 5:00p.m.

After it seemed to subside, the next sensation was like little squeezing motions that seemed to be racing up my SPINE (hind-sight, it was probably my aorta spasms), gaining speed as they continued racing up and under my sternum (breast bone, where one presses rhythmically when administering CPR).

This fascinating process continued on into my throat and branched out into both jaws. 'AHA!! NOW I stopped puzzling about what was happening -- we all have read and/or heard about pain in the jaws being one of the signals of an MI happening, haven't we? I said aloud to myself and the cat, Dear God, I think I'm having a heart attack!

I lowered the foot rest dumping the cat from my lap, started to take a step and fell on the floor instead. I thought to myself, If this is a heart attack, I shouldn't be walking into the next room where the phone is or anywhere else... but, on the other hand, if I don't, nobody will know that I need help, and if I wait any longer I may not be able to get up in a moment.

I pulled myself up with the arms of the chair, walked slowly into the next room and dialed the Paramedics... I told her I thought I was having a heart attack due to the pressure building under the sternum and radiating into my jaws. I didn't feel hysterical or afraid, just stating the facts. She said she was sending the Paramedics over immediately, asked if the front door was near to me, and if so, to un-bolt the door and then lie down on the floor where they could see me when they came in.

I unlocked the door and then lay down on the floor as instructed and lost consciousness, as I don't remember the medics coming in, their examination, lifting me onto a gurney or getting me into their ambulance, or hearing the call they made to St. Jude ER on the way, but I did briefly awaken when we arrived and saw that the radiologist was already there in his surgical blues and cap, helping the medics pull my stretcher out of the ambulance. He was bending over me asking questions (probably something like 'Have you taken any medications?') but I couldn't make my mind interpret what he was saying, or form an answer, and nodded off again, not waking up until the Cardiologist and partner had already threaded the teeny angiogram balloon up my femoral artery into the aorta and into my heart where they installed 2 side by side stints to hold open my right coronary artery.

I know it sounds like all my thinking and actions at home must have taken at least 20-30 minutes before calling the paramedics, but actually it took perhaps 4-5 minutes before the call, and both the fire station and St. Jude are only minutes away from my home, and my Cardiologist was already to go to the OR in his scrubs and get going on restarting my heart (which had stopped somewhere between my arrival and the procedure) and installing the stints.

Why have I written all of this to you with so much detail? Because I want all of you who are so important in my life to know what I learned first hand.

1. Be aware that something very different is happening in your body, not the usual men's symptoms but inexplicable things happening (until my sternum and jaws got into the act). It is said that many more women than men die of their first (and last) MI because they didn't know they were having one and commonly mistake it as indigestion, take some Maalox or other anti-heartburn preparation and go to bed, hoping they'll feel better in the morning when they wake up... which doesn't happen. My female friends, your symptoms might not be exactly like mine, so I advise you to call the Paramedics if ANYTHING is unpleasantly happening that you've not felt before. It is better to have a 'false alarm' visitation than to risk your life guessing what it might be!

2. Note that I said 'Call the Paramedics.' And if you can take an aspirin. Ladies, TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!
Do NOT try to drive yourself to the ER - you are a hazard to others on the road.

Do NOT have your panicked husband who will be speeding and looking anxiously at what's happening with you instead of the road - take you to the hospital.

Do NOT call your doctor -- he doesn't know where you live and if it's at night you won't reach him anyway, and if it's daytime, his assistants (or answering service) will tell you to call the Paramedics. He doesn't carry the equipment in his car that you need to be saved! The Paramedics do, principally OXYGEN that you need ASAP. Your Dr will be notified later.

3. Don't assume it couldn't be a heart attack because you have a normal cholesterol count. Research has discovered that a cholesterol elevated reading is rarely the cause of an MI (unless it's unbelievably high and/or accompanied by high blood pressure). MIs are usually caused by long-term stress and inflammation in the body, which dumps all sorts of deadly hormones into your system to sludge things up in there. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know the better chance we could survive.

Equal Rights for Unborn Women

2010-10-03T23:34:00.000-04:00

Gianna Jessen (b. April 6, 1977, Los Angeles, California) is a Christian recording artist and pro-life activist who was born alive during a saline abortion. (from Wikipedia)

Gianna Jessen's personal testimony as recorded in Queen's Hall, Melbourne in September 2008.

Her abortionist signed her birth certificate. Hear her story in her own words.

Caleb's Big Adventure

2010-10-02T08:51:00.000-04:00

This summer, Caleb lived on a houseboat on the St. John's River for a week.

He was with 7 other scouts from this area of FL and 4 leaders.

The group of 8 scouts formed 2 crews which took turns driving, cooking, cleaning and being in charge while the other crew played; one day on, one day off.

Caleb had to apply for the position so we were thrilled when he was chosen to participate.

He earned the watersports and motorboating badge and got a boating license also.

The river was mostly peaceful.

They saw interesting homes.

They endured some stormy weather.

This Riverquest Adventure was the first of what our area scout council hopes will be an annual event that scouts from all over the USA will want to experience. Caleb was on the maiden voyage. Hmm. Can it be called a maiden voyage if it's boys?

Industry along St. John's.

Houses of the rich & famous. Well, maybe not.

More industry.

Jacksonville Zoo on the last day.

All these photos were from Caleb's camera. This is the ONLY photo of him.

But I like it.

Hope you did also!

Cruise 2: And We Waited

2010-09-10T07:51:00.004-04:00

After lunch, while we waited for our room to be available, we explored the ship. Here is a cut-away model found on deck 3.

Looking at the port, enjoying the breeze. Did I mention that it was a cloudy, wet weekend?

Here is the central curved glass elevator that actually worked part of the time.

Kids area.

Almost suppertime.

Return of the Squirrel Mama

2010-09-07T21:18:00.002-04:00

A most anxious voice on my answering machine requested assistance in caring for a baby squirrel.

I returned his call wondering if Rachel would be willing to raise another. (Do a site search for squirrel if you want to see the others.) With the rats in her room & mouse-sitting for the weekend, I really wasn't sure what she would say.

I had her pick up the other phone so she could hear his story:
He has a chihuahua. An 18 pounder who is buff & thinks he is Rambo or Rocky or some other tough dude. He is a killer of small animals who infringe on his back yard space.

This dog would not leave his crate yesterday. The man, suspecting "Rambo" had hidden in his crate something that he was not supposed to have, investigated and discovered the baby squirrel, which appeared unharmed.

"Rambo" had to carry the squirrel inside from outside, up steps, through a pet door and through the house to put it into his crate. Then he had kept it warm (the main cause of orphan squirrel death).

But, as the owner noted, "Rambo" couldn't feed the poor thing and with his family schedule, he didn't have time to give it proper care; it needed a new home. Soon.

Could you turn down an orphan with an amazing story like that?

Neither could my daughter.

Meet Acacia.

A Journey of 1000 Miles Begins with a Boarding Pass

2010-09-03T21:23:00.001-04:00

Stan & I hit a milestone in March > 25 years of marriage. That's a journey of thousands of miles that begins with an "I do." :-)

So, in celebration we decided to do something different.

(It helped a lot that Caleb happened to win a cruise just when we were trying to decide what different/special/monumental thing we could ~~afford~~ do.) Then in early August, we did it.

I was relieved to see this as we were signing in. After all, everyone hears about how a cruise is like living at a 24 hour buffet Now I could be sure that I'd get some exercise...

There were a number of these signs posted over the area where all our important papers were perused. Stan convinced me not to photograph them all which is why I can't share all that light touristy wisdom with you. Feel free to thank him when you see him. :-)

YES!

We are boarding the ship!

was

NERVOUS!

"Would I get sea sick? What did our room look like? Did each room have its own bathroom? Would I get sea sick? Would we meet some nice people? Did I bring appropriate clothes? Would I get sea sick? What else do we have to pay for? Will Stan be let back into the country since we didn't have time to get his passport? I sure hope I don't get sea sick."

Those of you who do the cruise thing on a regular basis are probably laughing at my insecurity and questions but really, didn't you wonder at least SOME of those things before your first trip?

First thing scheduled upon boarding, several hours before the rooms were ready?

Lunch.

All was good.

Still wondering if we get our own bathroom...

A Couple of Special People

2010-09-03T12:00:00.004-04:00

recently celebrated birthdays!
One is my mom, dressed beautifully in the the outfit she wore to Jacob & Maryn's wedding, accompanied by the remaining household grandkids also decked out in their wedding attire, behaving themselves nicely.

Me?
In this photo I'm just a-tired. LOL :-)

The other is Stan's dad, who you can recognize here as the gentleman politely ignoring the ruffians who stand behind him as the ~~partner in crime~~ father of said ruffians cracks up.

And doesn't he look nice in ~~pink~~ salmon?

Dad just celebrated his 83rd. He said that he & Stan's mom are not planning another big birthday bash for him, as they had when he turned 80, until he turns 90, but I agree with Stan: every year, every day is a gift.
Especially if you can celebrate it with ruffians like mine. :-)

Andrew Again

2010-09-01T09:10:00.003-04:00

Today this handsome young man with a wreath on his shoulder will wear this new suit to college because after his classes are completed for the day he is being interviewed for a scholarship.

We received the call about him being a finalist prior to him telling us he had applied - life is busy these days - then he played phone tag with the person doing the scheduling for several days. He was told to dress formally as for a job interview so I was very glad he had the suit in his closet and had already broken it in. I'm sure his time spent in a tux didn't hurt any either.

You may think it strange that I'm harping on about what he is wearing but his job as a helpful hardware man requires attire of a decidedly different demeanor. Can you picture him feeding & cleaning up after critters (lizards, snakes, turtles, fish, various rodents), loading up plants & bales of hay or bags of fertilizer, rocks, dirt or filling chlorine containers while wearing a tie? And he has to work on Sundays so usually attends the early service (PTL we have one!) in his nicest work clothes. Days for him to dress up tend to be few so I do my best to make the most of them. :-)

Like today. The interview. The potential scholarship. Yes, prayers are always appreciated. Thank you!

This afternoon he is one of who knows how many vying for the prize BUT the only one I know who can pull off that wreath bit & still look dashing.

The Chicken Came First

2010-08-30T09:54:00.002-04:00

Then the coop!

Stan, Caleb & Andrew worked on this in July

And early August

The chickens moved in but still like to roam around some.

We have nine. The white Ideals from Ace (look like leghorns to me) are the oldest, hatched before Easter...

and the 2 hens are now laying!

Not the dog. She is begging.

But she will lie down on command. ;-)

Polish Chicken

2010-08-28T08:20:00.002-04:00

A sure-fire winner of crazy hair day.

Yes, that really is a chicken.

Yes, there are eyes in there somewhere; I have seen them.

No, I'm not sure if it's a hen or a rooster but the name is Tina Turner so you know what we are hoping. :-)

Dr Seuss for 2010

2010-07-24T10:13:00.001-04:00

From an e-mail...

I do not like
this Uncle Sam,
I do not like
his health care scam.

I do not like
these dirty crooks,
or how they lie
and cook the books.

I do not like
when Congress steals,
I do not like
their secret deals

I do not like
this Speaker, Nan.
I do not like
this "YES WE CAN."

I do not like
this spending spree,
I'm smart, I know
that nothing's free.

I do not like this
kind of hope.
I do not like it,
Nope, nope, nope!

I do not like
your smug replies
when I complain
about your lies.

So for the future
make a note:
"I do intend
to vote, vote, VOTE!"

Ken, no, Andrew Doll

2010-07-10T07:49:00.000-04:00

NOT! But I thought he looked so handsome in the tux for LAM Opera that I took a couple of pics too.

He is such a model son. :-)

Just hope he doesn't hide from my camera from now on...

Ushering in Andrew

2010-07-08T06:58:00.005-04:00

What would get Andrew into a tux besides his brothers wedding?

A good cause! Lake Area Ministries, our area food bank has been raising money so they can move into a larger location. The latest fund raiser was an Opera - well, excellent singers singing opera songs actually.

Andrew and his manager at Ace, Kelly, were asked to usher the event with Sweet Peas (florest inside of Ace) providing the tuxes.

I have no photos of the guys in action but heard they stayed busy and did a good job.
And LAM has started moving into their new building. PTL!

United We Stand One Nation Under God

2010-07-06T18:56:00.018-04:00

Two Pioneers pose {you earn an extra 5 points if you can identify the person in the van} as they will carry our American Heritage Girls banner in front of our float. We are parked in our spot putting the finishing touches on everything (and everyone) preparing to walk in the parade > sunscreen on everyone and plenty of water bottles as we nearly roasted last year. Of course, rain was predicted for 11 a.m., parade start time.

Photo shoot time while we wait for the judges to drive past. Jacqui named our float theme One Nation Under God.

Here's my group of Pioneer/Patriots. Rachel is excited about being the first Patriot (high school age) in the group.

The uniformed paper dolls, standing in AHG unit order:
pathfinder (blue T), tenderheart (red vest), explorer (blue vest), pioneer(sash/white shirt), patriot (sash/red shirt) -
spell out the parade theme "United We Stand". Peggy was so organized!!

And we are off! See me in the red, white & blue floral hat? :-)

Stan & Caleb came to watch. The big guys & Maryn had to work.

Here's the view into "downtown"

and the rear view.

As we rode along, we sang the AHG creed and oath songs. Ms Traci kept telling the girls, "Louder!"

I told them, "Smile and wave!"

I enjoyed seeing some folks getting into the spirit of the day. God bless America!

Many smiled and waved back at us. It was fun seeing many friends in the crowd - a benefit of living in a small town. :-) Sometimes people applauded when the girls got to the end of a song.

"I have a creed (I have a creed) That I live by (that I live by) that helps me choose (that helps me choose) the way that's right (the way that's right). I have a creed that I live by that helps me choose the way that's right. I'll be compassionate, helpful and honest. I'll be loyal, perseverant and pure. I'll be resourceful, respectful, responsible and reverent. This will be my creed..."

How can you prove you are patriotic? Just decorate your livestock!

Here we are close to the downtown craft show. Doesn't Laran's hair look beautiful?

Some of the girls handed out leaflets telling about AHG which they offered to families with girls.
There's my Rachel in her red patriot shirt.

See how thrilled the girls are to have won the "Best Youth Float" trophy for the second year in a row, the second year of our troop existance?

More important are the young lives, impacted, we leaders & parents pray, by the AHG themes and goals: building women of integrity, promising to love God, cherish their family, honor their country and serve in their community, remembering what an American Heritage Girl is supposed to be to help them choose the Way that is Right.

Amen.

Where do I begin

2010-07-02T09:41:00.003-04:00

to catch up? When one gets as behind as I am in blogging, one must start with today!
On in this case, yesterday.

Here is Peggy watching Cricket cut out paper dolls for the parade.

What a COOL MACHINE!

See all the excited dollies we have cut out, pieced together & clothed?

No streakers allowed at our parade, although I suppose that would get AHG into the paper BUT it would not be in line with our motto of raising women of integrity so no matter how HOT & MUGGY the weather > the dolls shall remain clothed. I know you are much relieved.

Now we are not doing this because we like to play with paperdolls but because we love our daughters who will once again this year be on a float in the Independence Day parade with their American Heritage Girls troop - providing it doesn't get rained out.

See, these little paper AHGers have no rain gear...

unless today we can find some place to laminate them. In that case, they'll be better prepared than the girls. :-)

United we stand as One Nation under God.

Ten Stories NOT in the News

2010-06-22T10:55:00.002-04:00

I found this to be interesting & thought you might also:

http://www.infowars.com/ten-stories-in-the-news-that-the-bp-oil-spill-is-overshadowing/

Reminded me that things that go on in the world reflect things that happen in individual lives. Do you, as I do, spend too much time focusing in one or two areas that other things may be neglected, MAYBE on purpose?

My choices for my life will not have the long term consequences for the world that the above mentioned government policies will, if passed. Sigh!! Yet as this morning's Bible reading & Pastor's Sunday sermon (May All Who Come Behind Me Find Me Faithful) point out, my decisions will certainly impact my own life awa that of those around me.

So I want to do it right! Only with God's help is a semblance of that even remotely possible.

Lord, help me to see all that I'm supposed to & not neglect things that need attention. Please open the eyes of our government leaders that they will not continue down this destructive path of socialism. Please open the eyes of the nation to see the truth and let Your Truth set us all free.

How would you live if you knew it was your last day?

2010-06-11T10:47:00.002-04:00

But who knows that? I had no idea 25 years ago on my way to work that a bad car accident would alter my life: marriage, work, day-to-day activities, the works. The life I once had was so changed that

I count today as my 3rd birthday.

My first birthday was when I was born physically.

The second was when I gave my life to the Lord & He gave me a new heart.

25 years ago as my '69 Mustang spun out of control from one side of the highway into oncoming traffic:
"I cried unto to the Lord with my voice and He heard me out of His holy ear." (from "Thou O Lord")
I really did. I looked right up into His face and called to Him, "Oh, God!!!"
He heard me and I did not die.

Some driving past thought, "Someone must have died in this horrible accident." Some prayed for me. Some came to see me in the hospital. Some nearly passed out in the hall. Some sent flowers and cards.

I thought, "If I were dead, this wouldn't hurt so much - but my poor new husband Stan."

Some doctors said, "If this, if that, if only ________, you would have died." Then several used their God-given skills to put me back together so that eventually all my parts worked the right way again.

Some others looked at everything and said, "God is not finished with you yet."

I lived and healed and grew.
And I said, "Thank You, God, for LIFE. This life is Yours, whatever You give me to do."
Then He blessed me with a stronger marriage, a closer walk, an appreciation for life, the knowledge that I can survive pain and be stronger for it.

Every day is a gift indeed.
So live it that way.
You do not know what tomorrow holds. I pray you know WHO holds your tomorrow.

Mother's Day 2010-Amber Rollins Testimony.wmv

2010-05-11T15:24:00.001-04:00

This was shared at church on Mother's Day. A sweet testimony from a girl we've known 13 years.

Wisdom vs Foolishness

2010-04-01T11:21:00.004-04:00

Interesting quote emailed from my aunt.

"The danger to America is not Barack Obama, but a citizenry capable of entrusting a man like him with the presidency. It will be easier to limit and undo the follies of an Obama presidency than to restore the necessary common sense and good judgment to an electorate willing to have such a man for their president. The problem is much deeper and far more serious than Mr. Obama, who is a mere symptom of what ails us. Blaming the prince of the fools should not blind anyone to the vast confederacy of fools that made him their prince. The republic can survive a Barack Obama. It is less likely to survive a multitude of fools such as those who made him their president." Author Unknown

Pray for a great evangelistic revival in America. Jesus is the only answer.

Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Proverbs 2:6
For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
Proverbs 2:12
Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse
Proverbs 4:5 - 7
Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
Proverbs 4:11
I [God] guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.
Proverbs 8:12
"I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion."
Proverbs 9:10
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Proverbs 17:16
Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?

Silver Anniversary

2010-03-16T08:02:00.004-04:00

25 years.
Over half of my life.
Not quite half of Stan's.

1 fun wedding day; 1 life changing car accident
2 jobs for Stan, one at a time, most of the time on B shift (evening)
3 houses, also one at a time
4 children currently aged 21, 19, 16, 13
5 dogs, one right now
6 cats with half of those living here now.
STOP!

I don't have time to come up with a full list of 25 things since our day is full of LAEP set construction & SR Library clean-up (yes, we are going two separate directions; life is full & blessed) so I'll just hit some biggies:

13 years in FL for Stan. The rest of us celebrate that milestone Memorial Day weekend > so that's half of our married life in FL.

16 years homeschooling with the end in sight; 4 years to go. It's strange even to imagine this ride being over.
Field trips and road trips and trips to the ER
We've been through droughts and floods and hurricanes (you may think I jest but it is true).

20 motor vehicles = cars, trucks, vans & motorcycles > not all road worthy, many having at some time to be dragged home from beside the road and Stan becoming much more familiar with their innerworkings than he desired. PTL for my handy mechanic!

25 years of God's faithfulness & blessing.

Lacking Wisdom

2010-03-12T07:51:00.002-05:00

Teeth that is. And they are now lacking in Caleb's mouth since they were removed yesterday. All four. Yes, he was awake for the procedure. Yes, in describing some of the experience, he used the word "cool" > he is after all a teen boy.
He did not like the sounds amplified as was explained to him, and said the shots were the most painful part of the extraction.

A blessing was that he didn't have long to worry. We had an appointment scheduled on Wednesday afternoon for an evaluation with an oral surgeon. Stan had an early appointment with our dentist the same day. When I asked to borrow & bring Caleb's panoramic x-ray to his evaluation, the receptionist agreed then asked if I knew that the procedure could be done there if it were a simple extraction, as it was soon after deemed. I was thrilled since it is much closer to the house & in not such a congested area, plus they were able to do the surgery the next day so Caleb didn't have too long to ponder all the implications (surgery = pain, as does the lack of wisdom...).

So my long, lanky 16 year-old is camped-out on the couch with ice packs keeping his cheeks from chipmunking, pain meds are keeping the daggers of misery away, and I am offering soft foods to try to keep his strength up & so he doesn't lose too much weight.

And wisdom. Must encourage extra growth in that area. Always. For me too.

Psalm 90:12
Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 111:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To Him belongs eternal praise.
Psalm 3:13-14
Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.
Proverbs 9:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Reach the World for Jesus

2010-03-05T07:26:00.003-05:00

Once a month my BSF group has a fellowship lunch. At yesterday's, one of the group members testified about being an international internet missionary.

An international internet missionary? What a cool concept! How often is the distance (or $/time to travel that distance) the deterent if you equate missions work with traveling to foreign soils? My friend specifically mentioned corresponding with someone from Germany. What if you could impact the world without having to get a passport or immunizations? You wouldn't even have to get out of your pajamas. Some of you wouldn't even have to get out of bed - but I'm naming no names...

Now, before you get all worked up about all the quacks out there, listen to the rest of what I have to say. (Yes, that means you must read out loud. LOL)

Global Media Outreach is a ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ > so not some new fly-by-night.

They have an intense interviewing process for those willing to minister to make SURE they know the Lord so will not lead seekers astray. Email addresses are protected by having the site as a "middleman". Potential answers are provided for you to assist in your ministry. You choose the amount of contacts desired. You are required to check your email daily.

Here is the note sent to me from my friend:
This website is looking for volunteers who would be willing to share the gospel w/ seekers over the internet. They provide free training & connect you w/ as many as you are comfortable in responding to. In 2009 alone, they had over 10 MILLION people come to Christ thru their websites!!

Here is a little more info from the site:
Global Media Outreach is a global ministry presenting the good news of Jesus Christ online 24/7. As a ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ, our goal is to stay on the cutting edge of global communication technologies to share Jesus and help believers grow in their faith worldwide.

The Vision
• Giving everyone on earth multiple opportunities to know Jesus
• Seeing hundreds of million receive Him and building them in the faith
• Connecting them to Christian movements everywhere

The Mission
Conducting relationship building, highly personal, gut-level ministry with people from all countries through thousands of GMO trained online missionaries.

The Opportunity
• Building the Church globally through on the ground partnerships with local congregations of all sizes
• Giving a person anywhere on earth the opportunity to know Jesus for only 10¢

Comments (as well as my tired brain recalls) from BSF group members:
"Who ever thought something like this would be possible?"
"God knew! Part of His plan to reach the world!"
"Jesus is coming soon!"

Amen! Come quickly Lord Jesus!

Getting Ready for a Wedding: First Shower

2010-02-22T07:34:00.005-05:00

As MOG, I was told I would be a "special guest" at this first shower for Maryn & Jacob, thrown by one of her aunts for M's family & parent's church family. Rachel & I got to meet some of Maryn's relatives & get told how much they love my son. That was special all by its self. :-)
Also, the food was yummy.

Maryn looked too cute in her pink "future bride" shirt (or does it say "bride to be"? EEK - I don't remember! Wait a sec while I run through some photos to see if I can read it on one of them... Ah - no such luck. You can trust me though > it was cute, pink & said something about becoming a bride. )
She has kindly offered to procure for me a shirt proclaiming "Mother of the Groom". That could be fun. A plus is that I have her permission to wear it for my other sons when such conditions arise.

No, I will not wear it in anticipation of such conditions arising. :-) Not me! I would never.

When Maryn started opening the gifts, she was told that old tale about having one child for every broken ribbon so she broke none. I told her that I didn't break any either. (grin)

I also said that my grandmother had told me that in her day, it was said that a bride would be blessed with a child for every towel received, so she's up to four, I believe. (another grin)
I didn't mention that Stan & I received 8 or 12...

Isn't this beautiful? This is Maryn's mom's first quilt, made especially for Maryn with the oriental theme she loves. No, it was not a surprise. I believe M helped pick out some of the fabric. Suzanne has been working on it at least since last summer. That is Suzanne standing & helping hold up the quilt.

All the gifts were opened & it was almost time for cake. Maryn & Jacob had received some nice gifts to help establish their own home.

Then we played one game.
A roll of tissue was passed around & we were instructed to take what we needed. ???

Then we went around the room & for each square gave one piece of marriage wisdom/advice. You should have seen the unmarried girls squirm a bit. The one engaged cousin had lots of advice (which is really quite funny if you think about it); Rachel had a couple of offerings including "Don't forget to spend time with me!" & "Take good care of the (Jacob's) birds."

Others that I recall:
*Listen, listen, listen, listen.
*Respect each other.
*Don't go to bed angry.
*Kiss him when you wake up & when you go to bed.
*Wave him off to work & greet him when he returns.
*Remember that he is the leader of the family; gracefully submit even though you know you are right & he is so WRONG.
*Love covers a multitude of sins.
*Leave room in your life for other people.
*No adultery, mental or otherwise.
*Don't get upset about little things such as messy habits.
*Keep growing closer to God & you will grow closer to each other too.
*Get involved in his hobbies (there was a fun fishing story here).
*Remember that he is not there to solve all your problems, that's God's job.
*Always tell him "I love you" when he leaves [because no one is promised a tomorrow].
*Listen, listen, listen, listen.

Good advice even for us old married folks, special guests or not.

Getting Ready for a Wedding: MOG Dress

2010-02-13T10:08:00.004-05:00

MOG is a fairly new term for me but in this wedding business, I'd better get used to it. Mother of Groom is a title I hope to be blessed with a couple more times down the road, probably prior to experiencing MOB, although I've heard that girls often "settle down" at an earlier age than guys but I'm in no hurry. God's timing, folks!

One thing I was nervous about was getting the right dress. I was informed that the MOG is seen only 2 minutes max while being escorted down the aisle & leaving, that no one notices the MOG as all eyes are on the BEAUTIFUL BRIDE and that the MOG is to "become one" with the scenery. Nice. But I still wanna wear something I like that will blend in nicely so my DIL 2B is HAPPY - which should help my son to be happy also...
Plus there are those wedding photos which you know last forever. What DIL wouldn't want their fav in-laws hanging on a wall somewhere commemorating their special day?
SO
While fetching Rachel's dress while Maryn was at the mall too, we looked for a dress for me. I kept choosing "wedding horror story" glittery or skimpy or hippy things (LOL!) since I didn't see anything I liked > Maryn didn't think it was as funny as I did. (sheepish grin)

Finally, I found a dress I liked & Maryn liked it too. Problem: It was too big > I like that problem better than some others...
When I found out that the smallest available was still too big, I wasn't about to pay that price for a dress that would have to be fitted. UGH!

I looked some more, even online but that dress stayed on my mind. No, I didn't obsess. Of course not.
Around Christmas I'd prayed & decided that that WAS the dress for me if I could find it again at that smallest too-big size. You can guess the rest: I found it. It was clearance priced by this time (hurray!). It was STILL too big. While I considered putting some weight on to help it fit better Mom reminded me of all the clothes she had made including some bridesmaids dresses for weddings.

When we went to Alabama after Christmas it was Mom to the rescue!!
She fitted & tacked & sewed & fussed about the dress not being made correctly to begin with. It has a symmetry problem but I do too so it was almost like it was made for me...

She worked nearly all night & then the next day too. What a blessing!
It was definitely RE-made for me.

Rachel inherited one of the jumpers Mom made way back when.
You know we had to have a little fun trying things on. :-)

And here is the finished product, complete with shoes. I'm hoping it is neutral enough to blend nicely with wedding colors chosen by upcoming DILs too.
I'm gonna have to wear the shoes some prior to the big day just to get used to wearing heels again. You can see me tripping up the aisle, right? That would be a memory maker.

Guest #1: "Look! The MOG just took a nose dive!"
Guest #2: "Yes, but look at that beautifully fitted MOG dress!"
Guest #3 "And those shoes match so well!"

Actually those shoes seem to fit a little big too. Think I should take them to Mom? Maybe I'll just try to gain some weight in my feet.

Getting Ready for a Wedding: Junior Bridesmaid

2010-02-12T12:44:00.005-05:00

We were thrilled to find a bride's maid dress and shoes for Rachel on a clearance rack at the mall. We went back the next day with Maryn to make sure it was the right red. Yes! We have a winner!

Rachel is having a hard time waiting for the wedding to wear it in public.

"Mom, it would look nice for Christmas." (bright SMILE)

"Mom, Valentine's Day is coming up & I have a new red dress..." (grin. wink, wink)

Not questions, because the law was laid down when we bought the thing.

I'm glad she's looking forward to its unveiling. Now to find a cute short sweater jacket to go with. Let me know if you see a white one on a clearance rack somewhere.

Ooooooh

2010-02-11T12:54:00.002-05:00

Caleb checking out his mail from colleges: "Ooooooh"

My musical reply "Oooooo Oooooo Oooooo" the beginning of "Thou O Lord"

Rachel then started singing "I look just like Buddy Holly. Oh, oh and you're Mary Tyler Moore"

Sometimes we just crack me up!

Quotes from Reagan

2010-02-10T10:24:00.001-05:00

"Socialism only
works in two places: Heaven where they don't need it and hell
where they already have it."
-Ronald Reagan

'Here's my strategy on the Cold War:

We win, they lose.'
- Ronald Reagan

'The most terrifying words in the
English language are: I'm from the government and I'm here to
help.'
-Ronald Reagan

'The trouble with our liberal friends
is not that they're ignorant; it's just that they know so much
that isn't so.'
-Ronald Reagan

'Of the four wars in my lifetime, none
came about because the U.S. was too strong.'

- Ronald
Reagan

'I have wondered at times about what
the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them
through the U.S. Congress.'
-Ronald Reagan

'The taxpayer: That's someone
who works for the federal government but doesn't have to take the
civil service examination.' - Ronald
Reagan

'Government is like a baby: An
alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of
responsibility at the other.'
- Ronald Reagan

'The nearest thing to eternal life we will
ever see on this earth is a government
program.'
- Ronald Reagan

'It has been said that politics is
the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a
striking resemblance to the first.'
- Ronald Reagan

'Government's view of the
economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves,
tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving,
subsidize it.'
- Ronald Reagan

'Politics is not a bad profession.
If you succeed, there are many rewards; if you disgrace yourself,
you can always write a book.'
- Ronald Reagan

'No arsenal, or no weapon in
the arsenals of the world, is as formidable as the will and moral
courage of free men and women.' - Ronald
Reagan

'If we ever
forget that we're one nation under GOD, then we will be a nation
gone under.' -Ronald
Reagan

Wet Weather

2010-01-22T16:17:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, according to our rain gauge, we received approximately 6 inches of rain!

When I got home from BSF just after 2 p.m., it was coming down so hard that I took off my socks & tennies, rolled up my jean legs, left all my stuff inside Mini & waded to the house. Since I was already drenched (Drenched, I say!) I took the opportunity to clear leaves so the water would flow off of the parking slab then dashed indoors.

Crashing & booming = unplugging of the pcs but here we are safely online today. :-)

The dug-out runoff, gutters and drain mesh all filled up with more leaves and began overflowing so the foyer flooded but only for a little while and we had towels at the ready. The spot on the roof that leaks when the wind blows hard in just the right direction was hit by wind and rain in just the right direction so we had water dripping from above awa spilling in under the door but we, like true scouts, were prepared for that also.

The driveway is rutted and washed out. I've heard the dirt road is rough in places.

Am I down about all this wetness? Oh, no!
The sun is shining today and once again we have an island actually surrounded by WATER. Oh, yea!

Training a Leader

2010-01-20T08:36:00.004-05:00

Three of us completed half of the AHG leader training last night complete with questions, discussion, jokes, a tiny bit of calendar work, delicious hot teas (honey or sugar?), cheese & crackers and bite sized Reeses cups.

What I learned:

There is something called a Joining Award Leader Resource Packet that we've never seen.

Our troop really needs a shepherd.
Our Charter Organization is supposed to provide one.
A shepherd prays with & gets to know the girls plus provides spiritual leadership for the leaders and moms.

Leaders are only supposed to hold a position for no longer than three years. That can be a good thing. Rachel has 4 more years after this one. Time is fleeting!

Cows frolic. Yes, that did come up during the meeting. No, you really don't want to know.

AHG has its own official polo shirts that are muy expensive (who pays $25 for a polo?) required uniform attire but are not available for sale at convention & charges outrageous shipping & handling. Hm.

Stars & Stripes Award has a required one hundred hour community service project that must be completed by age 18.

The AHG Creed is based on the 10 Commandments. I still haven't figured out which goes with which commandment (not that I've pondered for very long...): An American Heritage Girl is compassionate, helpful, honest, loyal, perseverent, pure, resourceful, respectful, responsible, reverent.

1. Only worship God.
2. No idols.
3. No misusing God's Name.
4. Keep the Sabbath holy.
5. Honor your parents.
6. Do not murder.
7. Do not commit adultery.
8. Do not steal.
9. Do not lie.
10. Do not covet.

Which would you put together?

We plan to finish our training next week. Same bat time & place although the snacks may vary.

Incredible Jump Rope Dancing

2010-01-09T00:45:00.003-05:00

Got this link from the guy I used to work for at the Rodeo selling hat pins & belt buckles. He once paid me with a hundred dollar bill then asked me if I was going to frame it. Cool idea.

NO WAY! I was spending that puppy.

Anyhow, about this link: The jump-roping group is called Kings Firecrackers. It was taped during half-time at an Army/Navy Basketball Game in Ohio - part of the fun was seeing how the crowd enjoyed the show.

I'd like to see you try jumping rope like this. Go ahead. Pick a song you like & hop away.

I know you could do it. :-)

I'm BAAAAAACK

2010-01-05T16:21:00.002-05:00

At least that's the plan.

I've told some friends that my brain is tired. It had some nice R & R in AL visitin' with my mama. Now it's just a bit chilly. Are temps in FL supposed to get below freezing? :-)

Happy 2010. God bless the USA.

Rain Gutter Bookshelves

2009-11-20T09:32:00.002-05:00

The librarian in me loves this creative idea while the practical me says "that'd take WAY to many rain gutters to hold my books! Excellent presentation though. Check it out.

Rain Gutter bookshelves

19 Reasons to Love Andrew

2009-10-30T09:09:00.005-04:00

1. Walks with the Lord & studies His Word
2. He was a sweet baby. And cute too as you can see here.
3. He arrived right on time! And still hates to be late.
4. Wonderful sense of humor & fun
5. Ace's most handsome pet guy/snake-handler extraordinaire
6. Tallness
7. Energetic

8. Competitive - and loves to PLAY
9. Football & basketball fan & player; supports his teams & friends.
10. Good student
11. Excellent eater - Pizza is his fav and he works tomorrow >> hint, hint
12. Great hair (says his barber)
13. Has always been a fab sleeper > would barely stir in his crib for those middle of the night feedings. Don't forget who was there for you, babe.
14. Contemplative yet laid-back
15. Participatory
16. Chews on concepts until he knows what he believes, then stands there firmly.
17. Thrifty yet generous
18. Loves his family (great hugger)
19. Uncomplaining - For example, he will not complain about this potentially embarrassing post in which so many of his wonderful qualities are laid bare for the public to peruse... :-)

Happy Birthday, Andrew!

Gun History?

2009-10-16T12:31:00.004-04:00

I searched www.truthorfiction.com and www.snopes.com but found no info confirming nor discrediting this emailed history. How much do you value your 2nd ammendment rights?

A LITTLE GUN HISTORY
In 1929, the Soviet Union established gun control.. From 1929 to 1953, about 20 million dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
------------------------------
In 1911, Turkey established gun control. From 1915 to 1917, 1.5 million Armenians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
------------------------------
Germany established gun control in 1938 and from 1939 to 1945, a total of 13 million Jews and others who were unable to defend themselves were rounded up and exterminated.
------------------------------
China established gun control in 1935. From 1948 to 1952, 20 million political dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
------------------------------
Guatemala established gun control in 1964. From 1964 to 1981, 100,000 Mayan Indians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
------------------------------
Uganda established gun control in 1970. From 1971 to 1979, 300,000 Christians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated
------------------------------
Cambodia established gun control in 1956. From 1975 to 1977, one million educated people, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.
-----------------------------
Defenseless people rounded up and exterminated in the 20th Century because of gun control: 56 million.
------------------------------
During WWII the Japanese decided not to invade America because they knew most Americans were ARMED!

Caleb Memory

2009-09-28T21:04:00.002-04:00

When I woke him up this morning & told him happy birthday, he did it.

He asked for the story about the day he was born.

I told him that he was born by c-section a week early and was my 2nd biggest baby at 8 pounds 4 ounces. He was taken away to the nursery while I did my time in the recovery room.

I had to stay flat because the meds in the epidural made me sick but when I was settled in my room, I rang for the nurses to bring him to me. Then I waited.

And waited. Way too long I waited. Hours.

Finally I called again & finally they brought this sweet, chubby almost red-haired boy to me. He turned to look at me when he heard me speak.

Then he went to sleep.

"They called you and said you knew me " he said.

"Yes. They came to take you back to the nursery about 11:30 so I could get a good night's sleep but I told the nurse that you'd be wide awake within the hour so she might as well leave you. She just laughed at me and rolled you away."

"But you were right." He grins his sleepy smile.

"Then about 12:30 my phone rang and I could hear you wailing in the background when I answered. The nurse said, "You really know your son. Do you want me to bring him to you?" And I told her, "bring him on."

"You knew I'd wake up." He snickers a little and shakes his head. Surprised that I already knew his middle of the night wide awake habit? Maybe thinking Mom was cool to know him when the nurse thought I would not, to be right about him on the day of his birth?

I reminded him again to get up because after 16 years I also know that he would happily go back to sleep. :-) I ruffled his sleep mussed hair.

Have I mentioned that I love that kid?

Sweet 16?

2009-09-28T07:37:00.004-04:00

You know if someone says SWEET he'll say, "CHEESE!"
But he would agree on the 16 part.

Happy birthday to my SWEET boy, here modeling his favorite & newest pet, a bearded dragon named Natu.

I had to include this photo to show that he will ~~argue~~ vigorously debate with anyone. Even the dog.

I love that kid!

Oh yeah, I love the one next to him too. :-)

Mo' Scratchin'

2009-09-22T20:46:00.005-04:00

I know I just blogged about this but if you can't scroll there from here, here is what this library looked like to begin with.

So my wonderful volunteers worked with me again today then my best friend came to check out how the shelves are acquiring books

and to give us a ride home.

As of today there are over 600 books input & around 400 on the shelves.

I like it when a plan comes together. :-)

Government Class

2009-09-22T06:54:00.004-04:00

At the beginning of this first Government class, Mr. Cook reminded us how banks teach their tellers to recognize counterfeit money. Do you know? By handling real money, becoming so familiar with it that the fakers just shout out: I am not the real thing!

What exactly does that have to do with government you may ask? Simple. When you know the truth, you can spot falsehood. Knowing your Bible enables you to discern doctrinal lies. Knowing the foundations of our country and studying the constitution & other foundational documents helps us recognize how our government was designed to run. We will see if it still maintains that original scriptural-based model. I expect you already know the answer.

After speeding through the history of law and following the Roman and English roads through the Magna Carta, Model Parliament, Petition of Rights, Glorious Revolution, English Bill of Rights, House of Burgesses, the Mayflower Compact and the Great Awakening brought us to the Declaration of Independence and formation of a Federal Democratic Republic, Mr. Cook gave us a break then expounded on political parties so that the group could form parties in order to convene a nominating convention at our next meeting.

Dads were encouraged to seek the highest office and since as Christians we all have the same core values on the heavy issues, to base party platform planks on creating a new national holiday, an ethnically themed snack, creating a homework policy and answer the testing question: do we have them and how many?

The room buzzed with around 30 voices offering opinions and suggestions.
Final tally: 3 parties.
Mr. Stanley & Mr. Stallings heading up the Freedom Ice Cream Party
Mr. Thompson & Mr. Handley running under the Patriotic Pizza Party Phlag
and Mr. Geiger, as the Third Party (the name they chose) candidate

Sorry to say I forgot my camera, BUT
we participated in this class in 2005 too.

Scratching Along, Library part 2

2009-09-20T21:11:00.004-04:00

Work needed, in no specific order:
Sort materials > started by other folks there & continued by us.
Input media info into the program > currently my baby.
Process for check out > all hands welcome.

Another item important to a guy in charge was for books to be on the shelves (the donor may want a photo) so some of the organizers made use of the available space - and notice two round library tables with chairs!
A homeschooing benefit is being able to take school with us wherever we go. Here my favorite two students are flying through their work, completing all they brought in under two hours. Amazing!

And beneficial:
Instant volunteer labor for me!
They went to work sorting, stamping and attaching spine labels.

They only ~~whined~~ complained a little.

And the next time we came, they brought more school work to do. :-)

Don't all those books on the shelves look good?
They'll look even better when they're ready to check out.
The ones on the cart are in the pc.

See the desk near the front? That's the official librarian post. I'm still happy losing everything on this long table though. It's a good work site.

I plan to share up-to-date photos after our next visit.

So don't get yer knickers in a knot, Peggy! :-)

A Library from Donated Scratch

2009-09-19T10:33:00.008-04:00

Well over a year ago, I told a friend who works for a non-profit that I would be happy to help with the setting up of their library. They had many donated books, a computer & a room plus a company had promised to provide shelving but had yet to do so.

So we waited.

This summer someone (else I believe) donated those shelves! My friend told me they would put them together & then I could come work.
My first sight of the library. Look at all the welcoming space!

See the various boxes and piles of books? Wouldn't it be fantastic if there were some organization inherent in that apparent disarray?

Wonderful idea? Yes!
Reality? Not so much.

See my friend peeping over the wall? She was concerned that I'd scream & run. :-)
She's obviously never seen my children's bedrooms.

Yes. That is on purpose.

Here is the workspace where most of 2 days was spent just getting the bugs out of the programs. I got to experience the amazing remote computer controller as the software tech guy ("Hmm. That's not supposed to do that...") investigated the problem while I worked on organizing some books.

Him: "Mutter, mutter, mutter"
Me, phone in one hand to ear; mind, eyes & other hand on books, "Did you say something to me?"

Great fun.
You should try it sometime.

Jump In

2009-09-18T08:02:00.004-04:00

I figured that with as busy as our summer turned out to be, that life would slow down some with the arrival of official school days. Surely it has, right?

NOT!

One new thing on my agenda is for me alone. Sound selfish?

With the grace of God, everyone around me should benefit as He (Lord willing) works to mold me into the likeness of His precious Son. That is my prayer. Yours too? Fantastic!

That one new thing?
It's a returning thing for me: Bible Study Fellowship!

Never heard of it? It's been around for YEARS. 50 years is being celebrated with a gala in it's headquarters city of San Antonio in November.

Members meet weekly during the school year for music, lecture and a small group discussion then take home a packet with notes and questions aimed at the Bible study passages to be completed prior to the next meeting. If you don't write down your answers to the questions (in the tiny spaces provided) you may not comment during small group time. Incentive for talkers like me! :-)
Members are not allowed to use study materials other than their Bibles. We are not allowed to discuss our churches, politics or negative family matters in meetings; our focus is to be on the Word & the Lord.
Here's a site link.

I was in for parts of 3 years while dealing with babies & Stan's changeable work schedule in San Antonio: Genesis, Israel and the minor prophets & the life & letters of Paul.

Now I'm in a group, carpooling to the mtgs with some church friends & excited about the study of the gospel of John plus (new this year) First John. And next year they start a brand new study of Isaiah which will make it an eight year rotation rather than seven. What a great way to celebrate a 50th birthday.

Warning: Guard Snake on Duty

2009-09-10T08:00:00.006-04:00

Andrew took Slick out of his tank the other day.
It's been months since he's been out.

The reason is because Slick is so curious and active. He alertly keeps his eyes on movement inside and outside his tank.

It takes a lot of nerve to grab a snake who is warily watching you, moving toward your hands to investigate, potentially ready to strike.

A bite from this 4.5 ft. yellow rat would hurt, most likely even break the skin but we know he probably would NOT bite. This we tell our pounding heart.

Slick did well for Andrew so I took a turn too. And Slick only opened his mouth enough to stick his tongue out at us. :-)

21 is OLD.

2009-09-09T07:50:00.003-04:00

But still cute.

He has to work all day today so if you get a chance, stop by & wish him a happy one.

Yes, I Did

2009-08-31T21:10:00.003-04:00

I know you are wondering if I finished Do You Think I'm Beautiful by Angela Hunt since I was dragging you along, chapter by chapter until I ~~dropped you~~ stopped posting about it. I admit that I found the first few chapters more profound and applicable in my life - perhaps I haven't applied the early truths well enough to fully appreciate the end of the book. Let me know what you think after you read it.

What? You've not purchased your own copy yet? Never fear, it will be available soon in the church library. Stacy asked to borrow MY copy - not sure if she was hoping for juicy margin notes, a quickly available read or no late notice if she keeps it over two weeks. :D

Newest news: The month is no longer in question because THE DATE HAS BEEN SET! The church has been reserved. The PERFECT DRESS has been FOUND & ordered. The Mother of the Groom's dress has been viewed & approved. No, I'm not getting a new one but I will want some new shoes. Shooooooppiiiiiiinnnnnnnnng.
Plus I have to dress my handsome hubby, 2 groomsmen & a maid of honor - not to mention the Groom himself, but I'm sure the bride2B has a good idea what she's looking for there.

Clarification: She's found what she's looking for, just gotta choose his duds.

The 2 mothers with their 2 daughters will be meeting for lunch later this week to discuss "what our kids have been planning".

!!!

I forgot to mention the date? Oh, you must not be on Facebook!
May 8, 2010
Mark your calender!

Life is Zooming Along

2009-08-25T04:59:00.004-04:00

Missed me?

Education is officially (meaning we are now doing the recordkeeping) well underway in our home-school. Caleb & Rachel are zooming along in the FLVS classes they started in July. Rachel is 25% completed & still has a 100 average in keyboarding. Caleb is also doing very well in Web Design & is ahead of pace.

Last week we added in a new subject or activity each day, everything but science. With all the wildlife living in the house, science is hands-on every day. For example, on Sunday, Andrew procured for Caleb a female bearded lizard (in my mind the bearded lady - Can you believe that he didn't think "Lady" was a good name?) for whom he had to build a habitat & research a menu > we dug maggots out of the compost bin. That sounds like science to me!

Current critter list: 3 cats, 1 dog, 1 bunny, 2 parakeets, 1 tarantula, 1 bearded dragon, 6 snakes (3 rat, 2 corn, 1 rosy boa) BUT two of the rat snakes showed up just within the last week - one in my foyer, yes (sigh) another home invasion, & will not be permanent in-house residents. I'm taking them to visit a friend's home today to see if one will be adopted by her son. The other will be returned to the wild after being instructed to stay away from ceramic tile floors.

Half of my kids head off to college today - leaving home about the same time but headed in opposite directions. PTL they are commuting & not yet moving away, although Jacob & Maryn have been discussing the "M" word and are much closer to setting a date. Yes, I realize that would most definitely involve a move rather than a commute. :-)

For those of you anticipating the "M", they are examining the pros & cons of August vs. May in relation to college, college funding and Big Creek Missions which may or may not be a part of their next year. Can YOU imagine being married & sleeping at the opposite end of the gym as your new spouse-i-poo for 3 months?

So the questions I leave you with are these:
Will the little rat get adopted & live a life of luxury?
Is August or May the better "M"onth?
What adventures will be experienced this school year?

I'll keep you posted!

Or the Older Sister?

2009-08-18T07:14:00.001-04:00

Chapter 6 in Do You Think I'm Beautiful by Angela Hunt makes personal Luke 15: 11-32, what is commonly referred to as the Parable of the Prodigal Son.

I will have to agree with Wendy who said at the Prayer Retreat, "I always thought I was the prodigal son then found out I was the elder brother!"
BTW, another prayer retreat/book connection. God thinks of EVERYTHING!

Believe it or not, being the elder brother can sometimes take us farther from
God's heart than being the prodigal.

OUCH!

There is something inside us elder-brother types that believes if we can
just keep all the rules, make wise choices, and live sacrificially, that's it.
That's what God requires and, boom, we're in the club. He must surely approve of
our efforts. He must be more pleased with us than those scalawags who come and
go. We are as loyal as the day is long. We're proud of our humility and service.
We don't quite understand why everyone can't choose as we have.

Gross. describing my elder-brother tendencies makes me feel queasy. It's
uncomfortable when these truths hit so close to home.

The prodigal knew he was a sinner BUT the elder brother could
not see his own sinfulness.
The elder brother thought the Father loved him because he was
so hardworking and faithful.
Because the elder brother had not known grace, he was not able
to extend grace.
The elder brother was bound by unforgiveness. > You and I
will never be asked to forgive someone more than we have already been forgiven
by God. Kind of puts it all in perspective, don't you think?
The elder brother didn't know that he had always possessed the
riches of his Father.
The elder brother didn't hear the music with his heart. He
didn't know he'd been invited to the dance.

The elder brother...feels like the victim and wonders why the prodigal
seems to be getting a break while he stayed home and can't seem to get anywhere.
His self-righteousness is fueled by fear, pain and sorrow; not trusting
the motives of the Father.

Have you ever wrestled with God?
(Wendy brought this up at the prayer retreat also when talking about Jacob. !!)

The all night wrestling match that I remember most vividly dealt with this issue of trust, succinctly put, "How can I trust You with my children knowing first hand that you let bad, painful things happen to Your children?"

We forget that He understands. Angela reminds us of these verses:

Isaiah 53:3
He was despised and rejected by men,
a Man of Sorrows, and familiar with suffering.
Like one from whom men hide their faces
He was despised, and we esteemed Him not.

4 Surely He took up our infirmities
and carried our sorrows,
yet we considered Him stricken by God,
smitten by Him, and afflicted.

5 But He was pierced for our transgressions,
He was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him,
and by His wounds we are healed.

6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray,
each of us has turned to his own way;
and the LORD has laid on Him
the iniquity of us all.

7 He was oppressed and afflicted,
yet He did not open his mouth;
He was led like a lamb to the slaughter,
and as a sheep before her shearers is silent,
so He did not open his mouth.

12b For he bore the sin of many,
and made intercession for the transgressors.

Whether you find yourself as the prodigal or the elder brother, the answer is the same. Take everything that keeps you from His arms to the cross and leave it there.

Keep taking them there until they are no longer yours.

Grace is the hand of God that reaches into the fire and rescues us from above. Grace is the reason [we] can hold up our heads and return to the Father.

Grace is having been the prodigal or the elder brother who is coming home empty-handed, surprised to find that God runs, scoops you up into His arms, looks into your eyes, and still calls you beautiful.

"Lord, show me when I'm having elder-brother or prodigal tendencies. Remind me of Your grace. Keep me in step with You in this life dance."

Prodigal Daughter?

2009-08-17T07:16:00.000-04:00

Chapter 6 in Do You Think I'm Beautiful by Angela Hunt makes personal Luke 15: 11-32.

Everytime I have started writing this posting, I've had to get off the pc for some reason - which gave me more time to look over the chapter & pray about my position before my Father God. Perhaps this was an area in which He knew I needed to meditate awhile.

I have read this parable, heard sermons (a couple in the past month) & riviting personal testimonies, seen amazing artistic renderings, cried during the beautiful song and have taught the story in Sunday School BUT never have I so severely applied it to self.

Ouch.

What has the Father given to us? Our share of His estate is the wealth of His
grace, mracy , wisdom and peace. Our riches come from His great love, patience,
forgiveness and strength poured out to us. There have been times when I have
chosen to take His riches and squander them on selfish desire. It's a willful
choosing in spite of a "knowing better".

When I remember some past
choices, it's like watching a video of myself packing it all up, leaving the
dance, and driving off to a place where I am apart from God. I can watch that
video now and think, How stupid was that? But the girl in the video
looks happy. She's excited and curious. She's whistling a tune from teh dance.
She's too smart to be so naive. She thinks her life in the distant land will be
even better, or that a little adventure will surely be fun.

Then, there she is, trudging through the swine-flavored mud.
This mind picture is almost funny > pig wrestling < until I consider that she was the princess at the ball in all her finery, not at all prepared for nor desiring this porcine closeness.

Angela equates modern day addictions of all kinds - any habitual sin outside of God's will that is keeping us away from "the dance", to living in the pigpen.
It's easier to see yourself there now, isn't it?

I love that the prodigal can come to her senses.

The son said to Him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and against You. I am no longer worthy to be called Your son."

Let's just nail something down right now. We are not worthy. We never could be
even when we thought we might. We are not able on our own. We are not good
enough and never will be. Never have been and never even had a shot at trying.
That's the reason we belong to Jesus - because we are not worthy.

Praise the Lord!

"Worthy is the Lamb Who was slain!"

How amazing that, unworthy as I am, because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, when I am a repenting prodigal returning to my Father God, He runs to me.

Click here to enjoy a beautiful video set to Phillips, Craig and Dean singing "When God Ran".
I'll share my box of tissues.

Whispers of Unbelief Meet Noise & Clutter

2009-08-11T07:59:00.004-04:00

Chapters 4 & 5 of Do You Think I'm Beautiful by Angela Hunt seemed to be written just for Mardy's Leaders Prayer Retreat. They address lies that we believe (in other words, not believing His truth) which effect everything we think & do then explain how to move from bondage to those lies swirling around in our head to hearing & seeing God's wonderful truth.

Mardy's "Magic Formula" for the Christian Walk:
1. Call on God, cry out to Him.
2. Be still & wait on Him.
3. Listen to what He says.
4. Do it: OBEY.

Many bog down in items two & three; then don't have a solid number four to act upon. Isn't that awful? Fully half of what's necessary is not happening and one fourth is based on potentially shakey information.

PTL we have the truth in His Word to guide us but we must be listening!

Book snippits:

If we can't get past our unbelief then we will absolutely never know the joy of
the dance. We'll continue to live around the edge of life, never truly entering
in.

Mark 9:23-27
v. 24 "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief."

Let the truth of God's love be the exclamation that silences the muttering
in your head.

"I don't know how to describe it."
"Can you try?"
It's like there are a lot of voices in my head.
It's loud in here. I wish I could turn it
down."
"You are not alone.
A lot of people tell me it's noisy inside their
head."
"Really? This is normal?"
"Yep, perfectly normal, but incredibly
distracting."

Then Angela described the "regular pandemonium" in her head which ranged from life noise all around (she has 4 kids too) to the lists of things to do & remember THEN hit the REAL noise - the "unanswered longings, lies we've believed, fears we've embraced, choices we've made":
You mean this is all there is to life? I've wasted so much time. It's all my fault. Who have I become and who is the real me? My sin is too big. My life doesn't count for much. My scars are too painful. I'm an embarrassment. Somebody get me out of here. Time is running out; hurry up and do something.
The solution to noise? Quiet time in prayer, listening for God's truth. Mardy's items number two & three.

Then there is the clutter.

Soul clutter is the collection of emotional, relational, and spiritual
issues that we have been stepping over and ignored, thinking we'll get around to
it eventually. Realize that you might have to get messy to get clean, and it
could take awhile to get it all sorted out.

Clutter happens when an issue begins to get in the way, when the steps of
your soul are stacked with piles of emotions, thoughts and relationships that
need attention. Maybe you've been tripping over them for years now.

Steps for dealing:
1. Acknowledge the mess.
2. Realize that you may have to call for help.
3. Pray and seek prayer covering.
4. Expect this season of reconciling, reordering, and repairing to take longer than you think it will.
5. Journal.
6. Allow God to lavish you with His grace.

Psalm 103:8-14
v. 14 for He knows how we are formed, He remembers that we are dust.

Yep, that's me. I'm a beautiful little dirt person.

So are you.
Believe it.

The Other Lovers

2009-08-09T08:22:00.002-04:00

No, this is not a confess-all. I know you are disappointed but don't be 'cause it's chapter 3 in Do You Think I'm Beautiful by Angela Hunt.

"We can become distracted from [God's] invitation [to dance] because of the other lovers."

I am so blessed with the relationships God has placed in my life - family & friends keep this walk lively & entertaining, yet, they are only "appetizers intended to make you [ME] want more."

Angela calls them "vessels of God's love". Doesn't that sound wonderful? Sounds like a song - "make me a vessel of God's love to someone today".

But
expecting other people to fill that empty God-sized hole in our soul will leave us unfulfilled and demands more out of a relationship than people are capable of producing.

You know the other lovers:

the man, who wasn't made to be enough & can never make us whole. He is JUST a man, so let him be who he is & let God fill the depths of our souls.

the other man, the dad. "No other man will be able to fill what your father never gave. The only Person who can give what you have missed is God.

the children, precious as they are, they cannot fill the place that was designed for God.

the friends. "If I wanted to ruin the blessings we enjoy, all I'd have to do is begin to expect her to fill my soul. She'd feel the pressure. I'd be disappointed. We'd grow distant. > That place is reserved for God."

the stuff, which was not even made to be a vessel of love. Stuff can be enjoyed BUT our "need for love can never be filled by the pursuit of stuff." It has nothing to do with our soul.

PTL!
Can you imagine trying to fill God's place in someone's life?
How draining a thought.
And yet, I know I have done this.
"Please, Lord, help me never to do it again. Fill Your Spot in my soul with Your Holy Spirit."

Wallflowers R Us

2009-08-08T08:13:00.003-04:00

Chapter 2 of Do You Think I'm Beautiful by Angela Hunt is entitled "The Wallflower Who is Asked to Dance".

Being a life-long Southern-Baptist who danced mainly in gym class that one semester and NEVER danced a complete dance with a partner of the opposite sex, not even my husband, I figured I would not relate well to this topic. At all.

Plus there's my two left feet and I've always been comfortable as a wallflower.

Do you know what the dance is? The dance is your life. The dance is
you in the arms of God gliding around the center of the room, becoming the woman
He thought of when He dreamed of you. To dance is to say, "I can do that," and
then to magnificently step out into the strength of God's call and shine. to
dance is to grab hold of what you were made to be and then let Him show you how
to become.

Since beginning to dance with God and getting the hang of following,
I have been learning more and more of His love for you & me. In His arms
I've found permission to ask all the questions that have rattled around in my
soul. "Do You think I'm beautiful?" seemed to capture the essence of my
longings, but more questions have since spilled out:

"Do you notice me?"

"Is anyone listening to me?"

"Will You rescue me?"

"Do You really love me?"
Sometimes we taste this love in our lifetime... parents... husband... friend.
But here is the catch about the design of our souls: the love we will know here
on earth will never be enough. We have been made by God for God. To
operate with only the taste of love we get on earth will leave us incomplete.
That's by design.
The cup of our soul will never be filled apart from the love of God.

Bet'cha Grandma would even join in in this dance!

What about you?

"Pretty is as Pretty Does"

2009-08-07T07:48:00.004-04:00

which is Southern for "Well you are kind of homely, but try not to think about it."

My book has arrived!

I'm talkin' about Do you Think I'm Beautiful (the Question Every Woman Asks) by Angela Thomas - remember I mentioned it before? I perused through it briefly, having to leave it behind at the cabin in Blue Ridge since I chose not to steal it - always a good choice that - but knew it would be a good study despite the non-practical title.

CONTENTS
If there is a question attached to the soul of a woman, maybe it's Do You Think I'm Beautiful? When God answers from the depth of His great love, it makes some of us feel like The Wallflower Who is Asked to Dance, but we can become distracted from His invitation because of The Other Lovers, Whispers of Unbelief, Noise and Clutter and because we are Sometimes the Prodigal, Sometimes the Elder Brother.
To return to the music and strong embrace of God requires A Desperate and Pursuing Heart. When a woman chooses to remain in His arms of devotion, God gives The Only Hope We Have, His Perfect Love and A Beautiful Crown.
God is enthralled by the beauty of a woman and calls her His beloved. He wildly pursues her heart with romance and intimacy to make her His Beautiful Bride.

I re-read the first chapter in my quiet time this a.m.
Psalm 45:11 "The king is enthralled by your beauty."

Snippets for you:

When you've learned never to ask, longing is banished. Living becomes more
comfortable when it's shallow; that way we can avoid the questions. it is easier
to keep rules than to grab hold of the grace that sets our hearts free to feel.

If the question "Do you think I'm beautiful?" came attached to my soul, then
maybe the answer wasn't ever meant to fully come from this world. Maybe the
purpose of the question is to take me by the hand and walk me into the presence
of the Creator... Maybe all that really matters is what He thinks of me.

If you want to read it too, a used hardcover copy (which is listed at $19.99) is available right here from Amazon for under $5 including shipping.

Yes, I've ordered one for the library but this copy is MINE.

Big Creek Missions Staff Return Home

2009-08-04T08:58:00.016-04:00

We had all summer to re-do Jacob's room but it was a busy summer and PTL a wet one - I think we've gotten over 30 inches.

Which made it a little harder to get going on Jacob's room. Remember we started on July 23 by pulling up carpet & removing the baseboards. The kids did most of the painting while Stan & I ran some errands in town prior to my visiting the beautiful Blue Ridge in GA. Stan painted the ceiling while I was gone.

Then it rained every afternoon while he was home & could work on the floor until last Thursday. He dodged raindrops Thursday, Friday and Saturday but persisted!

Those cuts for the closet & door jams plus that small section to complete the wall required precise measurements. He did such a great job. See his saw horse set up on the porch?

Meanwhile, Rachel, Caleb & I worked on the baseboards; cleaning, sanding, re-staining and INSTALLING in the areas where the floor was finished. We re-hung the freshly washed curtains & blinds too. Have I mentioned that it was Saturday & we were picking the kids up Sunday a.m.? :-)

Everyone helped. Caleb was Stan's right hand man with the initial floor installation in the dining room & hall so he was right there to assist with the difficult against-the-wall pieces.

Stan placed the last piece of doorframe, reinstalled the door and the room was finished. Sweeping the floor clean prepared it for furniture which was carried in & reassembled.
All before bedtime Saturday night.

We watched their plane land then greated them with, yes, photos! and hugs. It was so good to see them. They had some difficulty outdoors missing the KY hills & speak of returning to Big Creek Missions next year.

Speaking of Big Creek Missions, here's the last summer update by my cousin, Kevin:

Friday afternoon posted ‎‎Jul 31, 2009 1:46 PM‎‎
by Kevin Rogers

Good afternoon, friends! Today, our teams are wrapping up their ministries for the week. The daycamp teams are currently hanging out with the kids here at Big Creek during the LiveWire services. This evening, the children will be presenting a mini-musical called, "GPS" at the park in Hyden.

Our construction teams are tying up all the loose ends and are helping close things out for the summer. Our next teams won't be in for about a month, so we're hoping to finish as many projects as possible.

This has been a fantastic summer, and God has blessed us in immeasurable ways. Our best estimates have over 100 people believing and confessing Christ as their Lord for the first time this summer. Glory be to God!

Thank you for your prayers and support. Without your prayers and support, Big Creek Missions would not exist. We are available to host groups on mission any time of the year. I hope you'll consider bringing a group during the fall and spring months to continue building the relationships that have been formed this summer!

We look forward to seeing what all God has in store for us . . .

Until Big Creek 2010 . . . . Go serve!

Do You Think I'm Beautiful?

2009-07-30T15:37:00.005-04:00

Early Saturday morning some friends & I headed to this nice place in Blue Ridge, GA for a Leaders Prayer Retreat for Ladies organized & led by the sweet Mardy Freeman.

There were 15 leader ladies altogether: Moms, a single single, pastor's wives, heads of support groups, the wife of a state congressman, etc. Wonderful women who love the Lord & could use some refreshing & stress-free fellowshipping.

One component of the spiritual freshening-up was speaking to NO ONE except the Lord before 11 a.m. to give everyone plenty of quiet time for prayer, meditation & reading.

Laughing, crying, dancing & singing were optional.

Once I got out of this bed in the a.m. I could help myself to breakfast laid out in the kitchen & wander all around the quiet hills & house but was not supposed to even say "Good morning" to

my roommate, Betty, which, as some of you who know me well can guess, was challenging to my constitution!

The first day there during some free time, I looked through the stack of books beside the bed, glad to see them because I had not brought any extra reading materials with me. I know you are shocked but I tell you true, this librarian brought only my Bible & a notebook.

The little stack of books on the bedside table included one Thomas Nelson published in 2003 called "Do You Think I'm Beautiful?" by Angela Thomas, a title this practical person would avoid under normal circumstances. I prepared to endure the book, expecting it to be so girly I would gag. Surprisingly enough, it was good. Interesting. Funny even.

Mardy told us in advance that she felt led to focus her testimony talks (not to be confused with teaching, said she, since she doesn't need stricter judgment - James 3:1) on speaking the truth in our minds. Monday morning as I (silently) read in the Beautiful book, I was astounded to find that Angela Thomas was addressing that very topic. So well did the book apply that I, when Mardy breezed through at 11 a.m. with "Good morning! You can talk now!" asked her if she had planted it in my room.

She sat down & listened as I read to her what I had just devoured a few minutes prior & with tears streaming, agreed that this was planted by God Himself for our additional edification. PTL! He is so good to us!

How valuable did I find the words to my soul?

I am purchasing one for the library AND one for me - to write in! :-)
And I can say with confidence that it really doesn't matter how the world sees me because my Father Who made me, delights in me.

I am beautiful in His eyes.

Doing the Tangelo Twist

2009-07-25T22:36:00.002-04:00

When Andrew was cleaning out his snake tanks last week, I held Tangelo. He hugged back.

I forgot how partial he is to small openings.

Surprise! A snake through my belt loop.

I couldn't talk him out of exiting.

I walked into the dining room wearing my fancy corn snake shorts ornament.

Then he wiggled around front & found another loop - while still residing in the back loop. He really looked like a belt now.

Andrew listened carefully to Tangelo's tale of being a fashion accessory. The bright lights & loud music were just too much for him.

Houston, We Have a Link-up

2009-07-24T19:40:00.002-04:00

I was impressed this a.m. at the Rebelution site to read about three teen siblings taking the initiative this summer to organize a benefit concert to raise funds for combating human trafficking in Houston . Click here to read.

Now, I can hear some of you blonds, "Yeah, the traffic in Houston is so horrible, so many accidents & traffic jams that like something really should be done."
No, no, no.
No.
We are not talking automobiles. We are talking PEOPLE.

HUMAN trafficking is modern day slavery. And yes, something should definitely be done about it.

Thus my notice of these siblings.
Their concert is featuring not a garage band or two but acclaimed clarinetist Håkan Rosengren, concert pianists Rick Rowley, Caleb Harris, and Andrew Staupe, and violist Luke Fleming, a C.V. Starr Doctoral Fellow at the renowned Julliard School in New York City.
It will be held at Jones Hall on August 29th and is entitled Broken Cords. For more info & to obtain tickets, click here.

Closer to home:
Gator fans, Tim Tebow is featured in World Mag blog. Click here to read.

Creative Destruction

2009-07-23T20:59:00.004-04:00

I messed up.

There is no "before" photo and I refuse to put that ugly orange carpet back so that I can take one. Deal with it.

Here is Jacob's room devoid of furniture, carpet & curtains. Rachel & I had just finished pulling up all the little board monsters with teeth that hold the carpet in place from around the room's edge. She was sweeping up splinters and all the little parts of our fingers the carpet monsters chewed off. But there was no blood so don't gag.

Stan plans to install wood laminate flooring. I know the concrete would work & may currently be fashionable if stained the proper color but I need that wood laminate out of my workshop so I can turn it into a craft room. 1+2=5!

Hoping to hide that around-the-edge required spacing , we decided that the wood trim needed to be pulled. I went to figurin' & decided that marking the boards & wall so that we'd know from whence each piece came could make the re-install easier. But how to mark them? Numbers? Too boring. Directions? Which way is north REALLY?

Then I hit upon an idea that would make Tom Sawyer proud:
To encourage participation in this portion of room destruction, I declared naming rights.

Rachel loved it! I think she pulled 10 boards before I got back to the room. Maryalow, LaFonda, Cameron, TJ...

Her enthusiasm so impressed me that I named my first board after her then contributed some fruit of the Spirit: patience, joy, peace

to encourage my favorite handyman when he gets to nails the boards back on.

Which will be pretty soon since J & M only have a little over a week left in KY. Remember to pray for them!

And Stan.

As he matches up all those boards with the ~~funny~~ creative names.

NOTE: This is my 200th post. :-)

Dragon Reading

2009-07-21T09:29:00.008-04:00

I've just polished off the final two novels in the Dragon Keepers Series by Donita K. Paul and must say that I've enjoyed these allegorical Christian fantasy novels. I like how her varied characters have relationships, grow spiritually, share and learn to live by "principles" based on scripture all while having fantastic magical adventures.

Oh, and the dragons are really cool too.
Wait - make that HOTT. :-)

When I popped over to the official website I was delighted to find, not only info on her materials but a library scavenger hunt (hint: these books are in our church library), advertisement for her newest book Vanishing Sculptor which starts a new series based in the same imaginary land and was just released last month. We don't have it in the library yet so if anyone is interested in donating it...
:-)

Other items to note:
Her resources section which includes tips for writers and links for home educators

Interactive activities including a monthly drawing & the above mentioned library book hunt

Fun stuff including games "for the dilly dallier in all of us"

Her personal testimony
She came to know the LORD through the reading of His Word.
Make it a priority!

Right Proper Reading Material

2009-07-20T08:17:00.002-04:00

As I've mentioned previously, I am a church librarian, a voluntary position I greatly enjoy. PTL!

I may not have told you that I compose a monthly library newsletter for our church announcing newly added materials, topical suggested reading, media reviews, memorials/honorariums, etc. Have been for nearly 3 years now. Publisher is the bomb.

What a laugh I had last week when I found our most recently published Beacon in a friend's "reading room". You know your publication has "made it" when it is thusly discovered.

My friend was puzzled when I rushed out to grab my camera whilst cracking-up. When I explained my jovialty, she was good enough to inform me that it was located in this place of honor in case they ran out of TP. LOL!

Last Day of Sewing Camp

2009-07-17T22:35:00.013-04:00

Where did we leave the sewing camp crew yesterday?

In the pool!
We really did get out & go home.
Eventually.
But we did not swim today.

We focused instead on finishing up a couple of yesterday's projects.
>>Swimming pool opened at noon yesterday.
Priorities!
I'm sure you understand.

Then the girls made full size pillowcases.

Got the drill yet?
Select & cut fabric to specific sizes.
Rachel had cats.

Iron.

Grace & Veronica had horses.

Iron some more.
Maybe do some pinning.

Sew.
Show off with flair the lovely creations ready to adorn girly bedrooms.

Ms Peggy thought a wall hanging incorporating some squares from fabric brought by each girl would make a nice memento. She & I put together this one for Ms. Linda & sent home with each girl a stack of 6 squares.

Sewing camp homework:

Make your wall hanging.

Other Sewing Camp memories:

Non-campers watching movies on Ms Peggy's portable DVD player.

Learning to use the sharp rotary cutters.

Ms. Linda of the Sew Diva Kids Camp & many encouraging words.
She SAID "no helicopters" to alleviate hovering.
But I know the TRUTH.
I think she enjoyed seeing the mom's working with their daughters as much as she liked teaching the girls. :-) This camp provided an opportunity for some mother-daughter bonding, and I'm not talking about the inter facing.

Brownies!
Courtesy of Christi
And let's not forget the marvelous fruity muffins baked fresh daily by George. Yum!

New friends to pal around with.

Sewing Camp: $40 plus materials, time, energy, effort and some frustration.

Spending time with friends, learning some new skills, discovering part of the Great Designer in yourself
- we are made in His Image after all:
Priceless

Sewing Camp Day 4

2009-07-16T18:40:00.011-04:00

We kicked off our shoes and jumped right into today's sewing project: a cloth basket for the bedchamber.

Measuring & dissecting fabric into 9.5 X 13.5 pieces - 2 of each, the girls once again chose some coordinating colors and practiced their skillful use of the rotary cutters.

The boys, having discovered this blog, clamored for some equal time.

Boys happily jumped on the trampoline.

Meanwhile, the girls ironed inner facing cut 8.5 x 12.5, rough side toward the fabric so it won't stick to the iron onto the wrong side of one of their cloth sections. Ms. Linda explained that it would help stiffen the fabric so the baskets would stand up. No one wants a lazy, sleeping basket.

Boys enjoyed running around in the yard being chased by the ~~miniature bull~~ large dog who lives there & answers to the name of Duke. Macho name.

As the girls carefully sewed the short ends then refolded and pressed those sewn edges making stripes down the middle and sewed the open long sides.

Some boys were swinging

while some girls carefully measured then cut out two inch squares from each corner

then pulled those freshly cut edges into a straight line and sewed them flat to make bottom basket edges.

At this point the baskets were turned right-side-out through a hole left for that purpose with that wonderful hemostat. What would they do without it?

As one nameless young lady stuffed her excess cloth into her bag I heard Ms. Linda say, "Don't scrunch fabric! I love fabric."

See?

You ARE supposed to fold it to put it away.
Don't look in my bag...

Several of the moms prepared for the next day by cutting out pattern sections.

While the girls were cutting and pressing into shape tabs for the sides, chose two buttons to hand-sew on for decoration then

TADA!
The finished (or nearly so) products.

Don't they look great? I know you are wishing YOU had one for YOUR dresser.

Yes, I've made a big deal out of this shot because once again I have failed to secure a photo of everyone with their creations.
Why not?
Because everyone wanted to go SWIMMING!

We're planning to have more fun tomorrow.

There's More to Life than Sewing Camp

2009-07-16T17:28:00.004-04:00

Espcially for Andrew who broke down on his way home from work Tuesday.

For the past two days, Stan's been trying to get Sport back up & runnin' from where it died. He's researched, bought new parts & scavenged in a junk yard. He got it started earlier today.
Briefly.
Bruummm. Cough. Choke. Silence.

I got to drive the Beast (I think we keep it as our own personal tow truck) to drag Sport home.

Only lost it once.
On 214.

The sad part about that was that Andrew had to call me on the walkie to let me know they were adrift on the road since I was looking ahead rather than keeping my eyes on THEM at that time. I didn't go too far.
And I came back for them.

The REALLY SAD deal is that Andrew just got Sport home after having major work done on it & our mechanic's job has taken him out of the country.

You can see why Andrew is not so "all about" Sewing Camp.
But he thought the >$16 he pulled out of his car coinage stash was pretty cool.

********************

Caleb is at Boy Scout Camp this week and will probably be greatly surprised at all the cool things Rachel made this week because even though he knew she was going, I expect he's not given his sister's activities a single thought.
Would YOU were you at Camp Daniel Boone engaged in all manner of Boy Scouting?
I thought not.

********************

What about Jacob & Maryn you ask?
I'm glad you mentioned them.
You HAVE been praying for them, RIGHT? :-)

I'm not sure they know about sewing camp even though I mentioned it in an e to Jacob. They are very busy you know.
OH! Maybe you don't since I've not recently updated you.
Here's the latest from the Big Creek Missions Web Site :

Ramblings of Thursday
Jul 16, 2009 7:51 AM
by Volunteer Editor
We have made it to the last two days of missions training for week 7 here at Big Creek Missions. As we approach an overcast Thursday, we pray that God would truly reveal himself in this day!

Daycamps are planning a wonderful Friday Powersource service for all the kids. If you aren't familiar with our Fridays, we always bring the children from daycamp to our facility. During this time we host a special GPS themed worship service and have fun games for the kids. Tomorrow we will be having a reading day-where we are picking the classics from Dr. Seuss and other known childrens books...we are even having green eggs and ham!

Construction is continuing to have a highly successful week with repairs, roofs, and other much needed home projects. Jacob mentioned the other day that the porch his group is building is coming along.

Community visited the Hazard Nursing Home, Hazard Community Center, Horizon Senior Center, and God's Closet. Our kids really get the chance to learn alot about what loving people in "everyday living" means. Pray for them today-this ministry is hard, tiring, and at times discouraging.

Maryn mentioned last week that she led a worship service at a Senior Center and earlier this week she worked in God's Closet.

She is not a doctor but she plays one on TV.

Tomorrow night we are excited about attending bluegrass "pickin and grinnin" outdoors in downtown Hyden.Have a great Thursday!~Hannah

Thank you for praying for them. They have just over 2 weeks left in KY.

And keep your shirt on - Sewing Camp Day 4 will be coming up shortly.

Sewing Camp Day 3

2009-07-15T22:56:00.009-04:00

Today's meeting began with show-n-tell.
After studying the AHG handbook, Ms. Linda proceeded to expound on some info necessary to secure sewing badges for the girls.

1. Get acquainted with the tools of the sewing trade. Identify and describe the use of various sewing items such as scissors, measuring tape, pinking shears, pins, needles, seam ripper, thimble, bobbins, buttons, felt, bias tape, piping...

2. Identify the following types of fabric: woven cotton, polyester knit, fleece, flannel, terrycloth, vinyl, upholstery...

She did a great job going down the list showing, explaining & quizzing the girls.
There was even a test complete with essay questions.
NOT!

Today's first project was making a notebook cover. Girls had to measure their notebooks to determine the proper size to cut their 2 pieces of outside fabric awa the "floppy doodles" that fit inside the covers to keep the cover on the book.

Securing the top, middle folded pieces & bottom pieces together presented a great opportunity to use basting stitches (item #4).

Rachel decided to pin hers since she's mastered basting.
You think someone would create a cleaning-your-room camp? :-)

Once pieces are placed precisely in proper positions you sew, sew, sew!

Then out come that handy hemostat.

Ms. Linda modeled the latest fashion, a cloth bookmark complete with contrasting fabric highlights and button decor, also known as Project Number Two.

Which requires more ironing of those complementary fabric 3 x 9 pieces, once you cut them to size.

Then a bit more ironing of the decorative stripes.
Yes, that's me in the photo. You can ~~blame~~ thank Traci. [grin]

More sew, sew, sewing. That's what the camp's all about, after all.

Oh.
And maybe some froggy "rippit" too.
But only when necessary.

Once the machine has zipped around inside the parameter, pinking shears are employed to provide that festive (and unraveling resistant) border.

Ms. Linda emphasized that the kids were designing their bookmarks, expressing their creativity.
Q. Did we bring our kids to sewing camp so that one day they will be Designing Women?
Just a thought.

A little bit of time was taken to delve into Traci's sewing basket to discuss the fine art of quilting. Gnarly!

The boys had a great time playing in the wet outdoors and inside with Lego's

before we faced the bumpy road home.

Girls finished their projects at different times & departed so I didn't get a group shot today.

Hopefully tomorrow. I'll keep you posted!

Sewing Camp Day 2

2009-07-14T18:24:00.007-04:00

Ms. Linda blessed us at the start of the day by reading some scripture from Exodus about the tabernacle instructions given to Moses. She said that when studying this passage she was impressed that wise-hearted women whose hearts were touched were doing the sewing, not just any women with that talent/skill. It made me think about how, when we consecrate our gifts to the Lord, He will use us to accomplish His purposes. How blessed to be used to do the Lord's work, to be His hands!

Instructed to cut out eight 3 inch squares of coordinating fabric (at least two) to make a mini pillow pincushion, everyone got busy choosing and cutting. Rachel decided to use the horse fabric strips so had to do some "fussy cutting" to place horse heads inside those 3 inch blocks.
Ms. Linda used her fabric pen to draw a seam allowance line one- quarter of an inch from the edge along one side of each two block set, right sides of the fabric towards each other.

The girls got busy sewing.

Meanwhile, Jacob showed such interest in the proceedings that his mama instructed him in whipping out a tote bag like the girls made yesterday.

Stuff those pin cushions! Poke that fiber fill into those corners. Feed them until they are full and overflowing - then stuff in a little more.

Do you have a hemostat in your sewing box?
Me neither. Yet.
It was useful for pulling that huge needle through the poofy pillows to tie down tightly prior to adding the buttions.

It was after noon. Project number one was nearly completed - just gotta choose snazzy buttons to accent the pin cusions.

THEN Ms. Linda reminded everyone that they had a second project to sew today so cut out a piece of cloth 13.5 x 6 inches. They scurried to choose fabric to cut then followed their directions in sewing & ironing, folding & flipping and then, tada! a kleenix cover.

>>>If you don't know of what I speak, just click on the pic to enlarge. Oh, do it anyway so you can see how creative these young ladies are.

Sewing Camp Day 1

2009-07-13T15:12:00.002-04:00

Recently I received an e inviting Rachel to a sewing camp, suggesting that here was a chance to begin working on the requirements for earning an American Heritage Girls sewing badge.

"COOL!" thought I.

I've sewn a little in the past but have yet to set up that spot for my machine & materials to live while I work on any big project. Needless to say, I've done very little sewing with my darling daughter so was thrilled at this opportunity for her to learn & me to get a refresher.

Ms. Linda explained to the girls that they will today create a tote bag using two of the fat quarters (one fourth of a yard measuring approx. 18 x 22 - yes, I had to ask someone) they were instructed to bring. She reminded them that as artists, no matter how things turn out they can always say that they did it that way on purpose.

I like her!

Rachel was blessed with some fabric from a friend so had to measure then cut these kitties to size. Ms. Linda told Rachel that she was learning more this way as she explained about the proper directioning of the cloth to determine cuts and how to measure & cut using her cool quilting tools. Rachel discovered that she would have a little extra work to keep the cats all right side up on her bag - one extra seam along the bottom for each sides of the reversible tote. That's inside & outside until you reverse them then it's inside & outside again only different material this time - oh, never mind!

There was ironing involved too.

Several moms (including moi) brought their sewing machines from home so the girls could familiarize themselves with what they'd later have access so they could continue learning & utilizing their new skills.

You know all we moms will be asking our daughters to whip up some great new fashions. They will all become famous designers garnering accolades from around the world.

Or maybe help with some of the mending. :-)

She's smiling now, but my Singer has some tension issues that did bring on some frustrations from both the females that live at its home. Call it a reluctant performer.

Then there were the steps to learn: Put your foot down then hold the tails before you step on the pedal Or you unthread the machine and get to redo it OR you build a sloppy rats nest of thread on the underside of your fabric.
As Linda said, "When that happens, grab a frog & "Rippit."

Here are the lovely seamstresses with their creations.

Another reason to like sewing: No shoes required.

Caleb's Newest Adventure

2009-07-13T08:02:00.003-04:00

Calendering out our summer schedule, I was so disappointed to find that Caleb would be out of town for both of the camping/hiking/canoeing events his scouting troop had planned. Bummer.

When I was ~~complaining~~ ~~whining~~ explaining what had happened to a friend who is also a Boy Scout troop leader, he invited Caleb to go to camp with his troop, which included his oldest son.

Details, costs & paperwork had to be figured out but, PTL, everything came together!

Here are Caleb & Cody as Stan is about to take them to the troop meeting spot about 5 a.m. Sunday. They will be spending the week in North Carolina at Camp Daniel Boone. They will be living in a tent all week, were told to pack everything in ziplocks to try to keep'em dry & are hoping to come home with up to five more merit badges.

This trip is probably a bigger deal to me than it is to Caleb because this is the FIRST time he's gone off for any major period of time without having siblings along. As I said on FB, I expect he will do great & I will greatly pray. :-)

Caleb's taken the kid's camera with him but having seen what they've come home with before, I'm making no promises.

Defiance

2009-07-11T18:18:00.003-04:00

We traded in our free Movie Gallery rental for a viewing of the movie "Defiance".

RATED R = NOT FOR CHILDREN

I was thankful for our TV guardian foul language filter but some cussin' was in the translated language captioning.

Here's what plugged in says.

Mo' basic info:

Paramount Vantage

director: Edward Zwick

starring:

Daniel Craig as Tuvia Bielski

Liev Schreiber as Zus Bielski

Jamie Bell as Asael Bielski

George MacKay as Aron Bielski

Alexa Davalos as Lilka Ticktin

Do you get the idea that it has something to do with the Bielski family? Yes!

The Bielski are four Jewish brothers in Nazi-occupied Eastern Europe who escape into the Belarussian forests. They emphasize saving the Jews plus fight the Nazis while building a community, a "Jerusalem in the Forest". Facing terrible odds, from without & within, they struggle to survive.

I found the based-on-a-true-story storyline to be intriguing so had to research.

Holocaust Research Project

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

From a Belarus Guide site comes this quote:

Bielski brothers saved more than 1,200 of their fellow Jews from perishing in the Holocaust - as many as Oscar Schindler, - the largest rescue of Jews by Jews in all of World War II.

My curious self wondered about the youngest brother about whom no information was given at the movie's end so did a little digging & discovered that he also immigrated to the USA, changed his last name to Bell, worked as a truck driver, and was still alive in Florida as of early this year.

Not a bad ending.

VBS 2009

2009-07-09T19:32:00.012-04:00

The Boom-a-rang Express:
It all comes back to Jesus.

Australia themed.

I got to be tour guide for 5th & 6th grade girls.

Brother Jason started the day out in the sanctuary.

The week's slogan.

What's the first thing you think of when someone says Vacation Bible School?Arts n-Crafts

We did some every day.
And everyday the craft people did an excellent job reminding us WHY we are at VBS: memory verses!
And application. They did that too. With glue & stickers.

Bible study led by Bro. Jeff focused on Peter - but you know, it all comes back to Jesus!

He kept their attention by keeping them involved plus kept the main thing, the main thing. Great job, Bro. J!

Preschool Missions provided a VBS mascot:

Milly the bearded dragon.

After entering the ship bound for various locations, students listened to Missions teacher, Ms. Cope.

This years' missions project is packing some boxes with goodies to send to overseas military so one recently returned citizen soldier spoke to the VBSers about life "over there" then a couple of wives shared about the trials of family life when a spouse is in harms way.

An excellent missions project, in my opinion.

Rachel was working with preschoolers so got to visit with Milly every day.

I included this pic because I knew you wanted to see her again. :-)

Creative snacks - one of the cool VBS memories.

The imaginative ladies who put them together.

I think these were the sheep head cupcakes.

yummy

and fuzzy.

Schedules were reworked so that the kids got to have recreation awa arts & crafts every day.

Rainy weather caused the Rec. guys to go to plans B (basketball court)

and C (Epi Center)

My faithful sidekick, Rachel got to carry around a didgeridoo one day. Musta been over 20 kiddos ~~slobber on~~ attempt to blow that thing.

Speaking of music...
The lyrics & music from the past 12 VBS' are crammed into my brain & keep spilling out when that section of memory is accessed so I've been singing about Star Quests, Rickshaw Rallys & yodeling.

I'm so glad I could be a part of it this year too.
But don't watch me when I try to do the hand motions & sing at the same time. You might crack a rib laughing. :-)

Free for Faith, Family, Friends

2009-07-06T07:08:00.017-04:00

The American Heritage Girl pledge says it all.
The girls peeked at me as I grabbed a shot as we loaded up to drive to our parade spot.

Which was in the sun. But thankfully there was a nice shady area across the street where the girls could get their hair done - a beautimus ribboned up-do, off their necks. Yay, Ms Traci!

Jacqui helped position everyone for the judges drive by at 10:15. Ross cranked up the music so the girls could sing-a-long with their theme song.

Then the girls waited some more.

We were in spot number 31 and were not at the end of the line.

Rachel was exhausted from Power Plant but willing to work wherever placed.

We'd gotten the "forward HO!" call so prepared to move out.
I kept watch over two young girls from my spot in the back seat of the air conditioned van. The view was great & the photos didn't come out too shabbily either.

And we were off!
Robert wore his Boy Scout uniform while driving commemorating the Memorandum of Mutual Support which was signed in June at the AHG National Leadership Conference in Cincinnati reflecting that Boy Scouts of America & AHG share the same values. We found this very exciting because in its 100 year history, this is the first partnership of this type formed by the Boy Scouts.
I asked Caleb if he'd wear his BSA uniform & ride too but he wasn't THAT excited about it...

People line up all along the parade route but really bunch up in the shady sections.

Rachel & her partner, Grace, work the right side of the street.

All that smilin', singin', wavin' and decoratin' paid off as the troop won one of 3 trophies presented at this parade: Best Youth Float
It was so funny watching the excited Ms Jacqui run from the front to the back & all around the sides of the trailer showing all the girls, "We won a trophy!"
The Cub Scouts/Boy Scouts won for most patriotic. I knew you'd be wonderin'.

And the parade paraded along.

Notice the booths on the right side. I've heard there were all kinds of nifty crafty things for sale but never ventured therein this year.

After the parade, everyone clambered on board & we headed back to the church to turn the float back into a trailer.

But first, a group photo.

Afterwards, Jacqui was shaking her head & grinning. "This time last year we were talking and having meetings [about starting the troop]. It's our first year and we already won a trophy!"
Her hubby mentioned that the church now needed a trophy case...
After quick naps and scrounging up some goodies we were off again to Billy & Traci's place. Here's some guys not yet grillin'.

And Traci in her kitchen prior to the invasion of about 30 friends (mostly the short, messy sort). Yes, those are scrumptious strawberries & that top plate was soon filled with delish blueberries. Yes, those are ice cream freezers churnin' up vanilla & orange sherbet. No, I will not tell you the WHOLE menu, it would be too cruel.

Before everyone else arrived, we snuggled with some 10 day old golden puppies.

You know you have good friends when they lend you their dog for your nap.

And their youngest for your lap.

We hope your Independence Day was happy too and filled with the things that truly matter: faith, family & friends.

God bless America.
One nation under God.

Our Country Day Parade Prep

2009-07-03T14:38:00.008-04:00

One of the cool things about our small town is the Our Country Day Parade with an arts/crafts show combo. Rachel has yet to return from Power Plant so I showed up in her stead to help with decorating the American Heritage Girl entry upon which her tired self may ride in the morning.

This year's parade theme is Past, Present and Future. Aren't these signs terrific?

Everyone pitched in: tucking, tying, wrapping, pinning, stretching, measuring, cutting, calling home saying, "Honey could you bring the _______ to the church for the float?" That last one was me.
Three times. But he didn't mind. He's the best. :-)

Here are dresses from the past so girls can represent specific historical women of integrity. Don't recall WHO but you'd recognize their names if I told ya!

It's almost finished. In the morning, flags will be erected at each corner: current USA flag & a 48 star, AHG flag & the Christian flag. Some girls will ride & wave while others will walk along with tootsie roll attached AHG informative bookmarks & Marti Gras beads to give to the parade watching multitude . You think I jest? Just wait for tomorrow's pictures.

Big Creek Missions Update #6 - Halfway Mark

2009-07-02T08:53:00.006-04:00

Here are some updates & comments from my cousin, Kevin.

Kevin Rogers is so thankful . . . for such a great staff, hundreds of amazing volunteers . . . and the opportunity to serve at Big Creek. Today is the halfway-day of the entire summer. How sad that it comes to an end in 4.5 weeks. :*( posted July 1

Week 5 - Tuesday Jun 30, 2009 9:41 AM
by Kevin Rogers

We are very thankful for another wonderful crew of volunteers this week. From a staff perspective, we're blessed to have so many encouragers this week. These adults and students are full of laughter, joy, and enthusiasm! in addition, their willingness to serve is WONDERFUL!
Today is our first full day on site. All the groups have left for their worksites and are beginning to serve in their areas of ministry. Yesterday was a half day of service. Students will be working throughout three counties, providing home repairs on at least seven homes, providing three daycamps for children, and serving in a multitude of community ministries. Each of these ministries is designed to share the hope of Christ with every person we come into contact with.

Continue to pray for the staff (pictured - see Jacob & Maryn on the far left?) as they are serving non-stop! Tomorrow marks the half-way point for the staff this summer, and although they are as encouraging, enthusiastic, and energetic as ever, I know they will need that extra "prayer boost". We're thankful for such a WONDERFUL staff. They are a talented crew of young men and ladies. We are BLESSED to have them serve at Big Creek! Until tomorrow. . . .Kevin

Please do keep the entire staff in prayer. Sleep seems to be the favorite FB topic of my favorite people there.
I snagged some pictures from an album that had tagged Jacob.

Here's your typical elementary school hallway lined with coolers for the day's work.

Photos were labeled "week one", when the crew he was working with turned this porch into a room. J is wearing the green backpack.

I included this photo so you could see all the ~~junk~~ ~~treasured mementos~~ stuff on the porch that had to be moved.

That's J on the ground. Standing.

First comes the teardown. See J (wearing red) supervising?

Measure twice, cut once.

Yes, that's J! I figured he'd be doing more than watching. :-)

There he is wearing green.

And the last photo from this job site.

If you don't recognize him by now, I ain't sayin'. :-)

Tuesday Excitement
posted Jun 30, 2009 9:33 PM by Volunteer Editor

As we have initiated another great week of missions + ministry here at Big Creek, God continues to do amazing things!

Today Megan's community group helped by preparing funfetti cupcakes for Manchester and Sand Hill daycamps! In the afternoon they spent time purchasing one week of meals for a local family. According to their community group it was awesome to bless an older couple with food & be able to spend time with them also.

We have multiple construction groups on many different projects. One group is working to repair a well pump-a much needed source of water for a family! Jaren's group is working on a wheelchair ramp while Douglas' group is attempting to tear down two chimneys. AJ & James are working hard on a flooring project with a great family in our community.
This week we are experiencing lots of great projects...but we are emphasizing that relationship building and sharing Jesus comes before any project!! Also, God sent us many wonderful construction workers both experienced and newcomers. We are so grateful!!

Daycamps are reporting great turn-outs this week. Today Hyden reported attendance of twenty children. Lessons are focused on studying the planets and creation this week. Please pray for all of our students and staff as they seek to make impact with Jesus love!

Tonight we are super pumped about the air guitar competition at Night Life! It promises to be a great time of fellowship & fun!

~Hannah

Horse Camp 2009

2009-06-29T08:01:00.010-04:00

I was invited to do arts & crafts at the horse camp sponsored by the place where Rachel rides & where Rachel attended as a jr. counselor last week.

I introduced them to a little cross stitching the first day.
Day 2: Horse tail bookmarks.

Day 3: We drove into town to join Ms. Sondra @ Ruby Jane Ceramics. Extra nice reason for this craft: A/C!

Day 4 I remembered to bring my camera! We decorated wooden frames and made horse stall frames from craft sticks.

There were many things to choose from to glue onto the frames.

I manned the glue gun.

Obviously did not take a photo of myself...

Rachel is sorting & choosing. See the sun-kissed face? They rode early & late to protect the horses from the worst heat of the day (when I was there for crafts!), fed & groomed the horses plus swam in the lake & had some basic horsie instruction times.

Seeing this photo, I'm sure you are asking: What exactly are my sons doing at horse camp with all these females? What is in those plastic containers that are holding everyone's attention?
I offered & the girls voted YES to my guys bringing some of their snakes for show-n-tell. The girls started squeamish but wound up all holding at least one of the snakes - the rosy boa. Most also held Andrew's Tangelo, the much bigger & more active corn snake.
Snakes invited to a horse camp? How often does that happen?

Rachel introduces her fav dad to Pockets, the horse she's recently been riding the most.

On the last day of camp, relatives come get their kids. It's 95 degrees in the shade and so dry that dust kicks up at every step. But do they pick them up & scurry back to civilization as quickly as possible?

No! First there must be a horse show!

The girls who regularly ride at Eagles Rest were paired with camp attendees to help teach them. At this riding display, everyone saddled-up, mounted, walked & trotted around the arena, attempted to reverse direction on command at the walk & trot, demonstrated "emergency dismount" and "brake", wove between cones and "ran" the barrels.

Then campers lined up to show their most perilous trick. The accomplishment of which they were the most proud: Standing in the Saddle.

And of course, what goes up must come down. Hearts jumped into parental (especially maternal) throats.

Yes, it was a perfect landing, a "10". The crowd roared it's approval. Horses tried to figure out what the big deal was.

Then the girls untacked & we all went home for showers.

Power Planters

2009-06-27T08:47:00.007-04:00

Some of our church youth group headed to SC this morning on a Power Plant Mission trip.

No, they are not planting power plants but helping a new church called "The Well" to grow in Greenville/Spartanburg. It currently meets at an area YMCA. Nine churches totaling aprox. 250 people will be staying at Rocky Creek Baptist Church while working in this area but I do not know if all are working with The Well.

I thought it interesting that the church facilities are being augmented with NAMB showers & bathroom trailers. The kids, not so much. :-)

Andrew packed the back of the bus headed to 4-H Camp two weeks ago so he's experienced for this job now. Everyone was told to bring only one suitcase & a backpack but also needed linens so pillows and sleeping bags were stuffed in & under seats also.

Ms. Jeannie brought her cooler. You can always depend on her to make sure food is coming. I believe she is the queen of snacking. Yea, Ms. J! :-)
Lift with your LEGS not your BACK, Bro. Jeff!

Bro. Jeff gathered the group for last minute instructions & prayer.
His 3 Rules:
1. No complaining.
2. No complaining.
3. Be flexible.
>That's Caleb's back in the blue T from 4-H camp 2 weeks ago.
Here's the whole gang. I was surprised that more of the youth were not going but others are attending SLU 101 this week plus the P2 people don't get back until July 3/4 so it may have interfered with some vacation plans.

Bro. Scott (far R) is driving the bus & I expect thinking, "Come on & take the picture so we can hit the road already." I heard Ms. Jeannie suggest they stop somewhere for breakfast too. LOL!

Here's the loaded bus. Bro. Jeff looks like he's proposing a toast.

Yes, that's Caleb in the blue with the Shades. Rachel is next to him. Yes! All 3 are going & with Jacob in KY that means Stan & I are CHILDLESS FOR A FULL WEEK.
Stan is not excited. When they were all at 4-H camp I barely cooked! :-) I'm sure I'll do better this time...
Andrew is seated in front of Rachel with his friend, John.

I expect some of you (Aunt Louise, Mom) are wanting more information about Power Plant. Here is their website.

A brief description:
POWER PLANT
PowerPlant (P2) is a new student missions initiative of the North American Mission Board. At a PowerPlant event, students will be taught evangelism skills and church planting principles. They will also have the opportunity to work alongside church planters in Vacation Bible School, sports camp, evangelism and other ministry teams. This experience is a prepackaged mission trip at a preset per-participant cost. Each project for junior high through college students is one week and all the logistics are handled by NAMB. Groups must complete a pre-project mission study before attending. Project and registration information are available on the Web at www.studentz.com/powerplant.

In the mornings, everyone meets for Power Plant workshops/training/worshipful stuff. In the afternoons some (Andrew plans to do this) go out into the community doing some construction projects & meeting other community needs. I know they will be conducting a day camp at the Center for Community Services (food bank, clothes closet & counseling). Caleb is teaching on the ten commandments one day. Rachel helped plan some crafts. Caleb researched some indoor games options.

Other scheduled activities:
Today:
Travel. They hope to arrive around 2 p.m.
Sunday:
Help set up "church" at the YMCA & worship at The Well.
Maybe a picnic & visit the cool area park.
Monday:
Participate in community-wide publicized (TV?) work-site day at the YMCA - "Give Back to the Y Day"
Tuesday:
"Work" the city sponsored movie night at the park amphitheater by running the kids area & other stuff as needed.
Thursday:
Trailer Park Fun Night. They are bringing some of the church inflatables for this.
Friday:
Depart early so they can go to 6 Flags in Atlanta on the way home.

Thank you for praying for my children & all the other participants in this exciting home missions program. Please pray for safety, energy & cooperation as well as the visible Hand of God moving through their efforts. Please pray for the Mitchell family who is the pastoral family of The Well, whom our group hopes to minister to while there also.

"Please, Lord, keep them all close & clean."

Big Creek Missions Update #5

2009-06-25T10:04:00.004-04:00

I know I have JUST updated you on Sunday but Maryn sent some pictures & there was a couple reports at the Big Creek Missions website so here you go.
>Yes. There is a photo of Jacob in a dress at the end. The guys were trying them on somewhere for some reason, Maryn has photos on her FB page - I have NO IDEA what was going on so don't ask.

Maryn turned 21 on Sunday. Someone, knowing that they are starving at BCM (NOT!) was good enough to send her some all-beef patties! It's been so hot, maybe they cooked on the way to KY?

Oh, wait - that was just the packing box holding her birthday gifts & cards.

From Maryn:
"June 24
Today I was really stressed out because I hadn't been to the hazard senior center before and I had no directions and we were supposed to play a game I didn't know how to play.....ugh. We ended up playing bingo and I found my way really easily! (photo: me calling out the bingo today in hazard at the senior center.) I played their grand piano too.

Then we went to the veterans center and went to the Alzheimer's unit and visited the man Anslin that I visited last week. He saw me and his face lit up so much I wanted to cry! He was so happy to see me! He said he'd been thinking about me every day! I was like awwwwwww! Amanda was with me and she started crying. I didn't get to spend much time with him though.
We went to Walmart with some of the veterans and helped them shop (photo: me with Jerry, a man from the veterans center that I helped shop in Walmart). It was very interesting. We had fun!

Its been a great day!!!! love you all!!"

Big Creek site post:
"Wal-Mart Expeditions, Roofing, and Jesus
posted June 24 8 p.m. by Volunteer Editor

Today many wonderful activities occurred with our groups here at Big Creek. I was personally able to ride with Tony, our wonderful video and technology guy to see our construction groups at Mudlick Road, Cutsin senior center, and Hyden daycamp.

In James 1:27 the Bible says "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world." Today at one of our construction sites, the guys in Jacob's group were roofing and working on other much needed projects at a widow's home. Not only did these guys do a great job today, they shared the love of Jesus with a woman who recently lost her husband. Also, it should be noted that her dog doesn't love guys...so they even got to experience alot of barking. Anyway, it was such a beautiful thing to see young men serving Jesus and helping a fellow believer. They are heading back tomorrow to finish up a ditch digging project. Wow.

Cutsin Senior Center was full of excitement from checkers to chicken livers for lunch. Ben's group did a great job just "going with the flow" and fellowshipping with the elderly there!

Hyden daycamp continues to draw more local children in & spread the love and hope of Jesus. Today the local food program, LKLP made some delicious burgers for the kids to eat! They also worked on some phoenetics homework & enjoyed crafts.

Maryn's community group spent time with the Veteran's of Kentucky while taking them shopping to Wal-Mart. It was really awesome to see community students getting to know these veterans and helping them with their shopping tasks. One chaperone shared that her vet was busy looking for the best hits of Johnny Cash while others needed simple supplies! What a great way to serve!~

Tomorrow night we are planning time for the groups to attend Bluegrass night at Hyden!"
Hmmm. He does not look dressed for Bluegrass unless he plans to get beat-up. As I said before, I have no idea.
But that pink?
So his color.
Def.

Here's one more update post frome the Big Creek Missions site:
Half-Way Through A Great Week
posted Jun 23, 2009 9:26 PM by Volunteer Editor Hello friends, supporters, and fans of Big Creek Mission!

Week 4 is amazing already! Groups from community have helped around the mission...from preparing food with the kitchen gals to keeping everything nice and clean, we appreciate ALL of their hardwork!

Tomorrow Maryn's group is planning to go to Hazard to the Kentucky Veterans Home. This home is such a great opportunity for our students to minister and love on those who have served our country. From pool to bingo, students connect with our former military, encourage them and get to share Jesus with them! Ben's group headed out to God's Closet today, a special local ministry for those in need. God's Closet is run by a minister's wife over in Manchester. Weekly we send our students to assist her in pricing donations and aiding those who need assistance in the local community. Community students were able to assist the janitorial staff at Leslie County High School today. These kind acts are a great way to share Jesus-in all places!

From reports this evening, construction is putting several roofs on this week. In Turkey Foot, Adam's team is making excellent success-great job guys!

Mudlick daycamps are underway with a great team who is dedicated to working on our new exciting project! Students enjoyed hotdogs for lunch there with lots of great fellowship. Please pray for our daycamps to continue to reach out to our children in the hollows of Kentucky.

Manchester and Hyden daycamps enjoyed the local free pool days today. Heading to the pool for a day of splashing, laughter, and fun in the sun allows our volunteers to get great interaction with the students from daycamp-what an awesome opportunity!

God is working here in Appalachia. Thank you so much for your love, prayers, and support!

~Hannah

Big Creek Missions Update #4

2009-06-21T19:45:00.008-04:00

BCM has been great for Jacob & Maryn. Thank you so much for praying for them & the ministry there in Kentucky.
Today begins Week 4 and it's Maryn's 21st birthday!
Here's Jacob & a new pal, Douglas.

This is Maryn's community ministry partner, Blake, taken the first week when they worked at a school. But I'll let Maryn tell you about her photos. Some of'em anyhow.

Me and Katie Kibert, the second in command at Big Creek. We call her Momma Katie.

The whole group with all the groceries we bought for the family who's house burnt down.

The burned down house.

Us again with one of the ladies and her little boy who lived in the house.

Construction at Jacob's job site last week. I'm not sure which project it was but expect it was one of these:

Project 4:
Homeowner's name: Patsy Smith
Ms. Smith is a single mother with her daughter (Bridget, 16 yrs.). She lives next to much of her family including her sister. Ms. Smith is a hard worker and has done all she can and is now thankful to receive any and all repairs on her home.
Need 1: Build new porch (6'x8')
Need 2: Seal roof
Tools/Equipment: Safety glasses, work gloves, any framing tools including cordless drill(s) and circular saw(s).
Project 5:
Homeowner's name: Bonnie Lewis
Ms. Lewis lives alone with her dog and many cats. She is very welcoming and loves to talk with visitors. Ms. Lewis is eager to meet those that will be interacting with her in week 3!
Need 1: Bathroom floor
Need 2: Porch and handrail on existing porch (Porch to be built is 6'x8')
Need 3: Underpinning around entire home
Tools/Equipment: Safety glasses, work gloves, any framing tools including cordless drill(s) and circular saw(s), shovels (round point), mattock, any other hand excavating tools that would help with underpinning.

Here's the group with the completed porch! Jacob's in the green on the right.

Jacob is happy and proud of his group this week, everybody is getting along nicely and the work is getting done right on schedule. God is AMAZING and keeps His promises!
June 17 at 5:41pm

Look! He's in green again! In the midst, anyhow.

When J has some down time on the weekends (usually noonish on Saturday to mid afternoonish Sunday) he has enjoyed climbing the hills around the mission.

The first time Tyler was his climbing buddy. He was accompanied by four guys on the next hike

on which they found two turtles, destined for Kevin's shower I hear. This may have been June 20. It's important for guys to keep busy...

Katie Hi kevin! This is Jacob! I stole katies phone!!!!! Now she is chasing me. June 20 3.05pm
Patti at 11:46pm June 20
No, that's not MY Jacob. Mine doesn't steal phones. Must be some other Jacob.
Kevin at 12:24am June 21
There's only one Jacob here. Just one. and yes, he's yours!!

Here's the guys piled onto Kevin's bed (K is in the aqua designed shirt on the right). I don't know if this is an annual event. It looks an awful lot like the "nap attacks" called on Rachel's bed by her brothers. I'm sure Jacob did not start this. Nah. Couldn't be.

Here he's playing around with Jaron. It looks like something I've seen him do with Keifer. Hear the hungry carnivorous dinosaur snarling at the poor herbivore?

Me, Maloree, and Lacy with the same nail polish!
Guys climb mountains. Girls do their nails. Pedicure anyone?

The girl's table at Steak n Shake.

Facebook chat Monday, June 15
11:39amPatti
so glad to hear of the salvations there (7 1st week, at least 8 2nd week - all from volunteer groups)
any in the community?
11:39amKevin
it's amazed!!
believe it or not, none so far. that's just weird!!
lol
11:39amPatti
what is usual?
normal?
11:39amKevin
salvations in the community
11:40amPatti
historical?
usually any from vols?
11:40amKevin
last year about 50
not many at all (in volunteer groups)

11:41amPatti
so God potentially has a different plan so far this summer

11:41amKevin
yes, it's all good. i won't complain. . .his purposes and plans are greater than ours!!

11:41amPatti
amen~!

11:41amKevin
yay!

11:42amPatti
ru preachin?
are these responses at evening worship times?

11:43amKevin
noooooooo
although i do preach, we don't do altar calls - respecting the local church and their youth pastors

11:43amPatti
cool

11:43amKevin
we dismiss straight to church groups. most have happened in church groups

11:43amPatti
did Jacob meet his cousins?
last week?

11:44amKevin
yes, he did. in fact, one was saved last week

11:44amPatti
woohoo!!!

11:44amKevin
i have to run. . . . .
we'll catch up soon!!!
:) they are both doing very well and appear to be having a good time :)

A Great Day 2 posted Jun 16, 2009 9:22 PM by Volunteer Editor

Here at Big Creek Mission we are experiencing many wonderful events and moments with Jesus!

Today our construction groups worked on floor repairs at a nearby home. In Douglas' group, the crew is doing a second roof at Ulysses Creek. Continue to pray for safety and endurance for all of our great construction people!

Community made a difference today by purchasing groceries for a family in need. Weekly they shop at Manchester IGA using a budget-$40 to provide a week of meals! Our students do an awesome job and report buying items such as Hamburger Helper, milk, and other nourishing items. Tomorrow Maryn's group plans to go to God's Closet. Drew's group is headed to Cutcheon Senior Center. Please pray that we would relate Jesus through relational ministry.

Daycamps had another great day. At Manchester, 13 children came to the weekly pool day. It is always so neat to see our groups mentor and spend quality time with our children! In Hyden, daycamps enjoyed a great day of lots of fun activities and learning.

God is continuing to work at Big Creek in amazing ways! Tonight Kevin spoke on the healing of the the blind man in John 9. We continue to see that our God allows things to happen-all to His glory. In John 9, when people tried to blame the man for his own blindness (due to his sin), in verse 3, our God tells us that "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in Him."

May we all continue to know that our circumstances have purpose...that God may be revealed and get glory.~Hannah

Another Rainy Day in Kentucky...can't stop us! posted Jun 17, 2009 9:43 PM by Volunteer Editor
We are welcoming the storms here in Kentucky once again! We are all learning how to be flexible and still serve, despite the rain.

The construction ministry still persevered throughout the rain. Although they could not follow their original plans, they were able to work together as a group and still accomplish their new tasks.

The community ministry is serving in various ways throughout the community. Today, one group visited God's Closet in Manchester to sort through clothes, while another group visited Compassionate Hearts in Hazard. The students and adults in the community ministry are actively serving this area and reaching out to the people of Kentucky.

Daycamps are still up and going in Manchester and Hyden. Today in Manchester, there were eight children present, and Hyden had a total of 29 kids. The children each have their own Bible now, and are learning how to use them.

In addition, God is opening doors to start new day camp sites in Clay County. Continue to pray for this ministry, as details are still being worked out.

-Megan

SHMILY discovery

2009-06-20T11:32:00.004-04:00

You may (or may not) notice that I added a new link to my blog list, Dandelion Seeds. I discovered this blog after being invited on Facebook to join someone in S.H.M.I.L.Y. for a month.

"???" thought I.

What does that acronym stand for? Is it illegal, immoral or expensive?
I'm sure YOU already know and have probably known for years but I had to investigate.

I found a sweet story about grandparents who drenched their life with this word & passed along that lovie-ness to their grandkids who shared with the online world:

See
How
Much
I
Love
You

I added the blog link because it is a good'un but specifically for S.H.M.I.L.Y. FOR 30 DAYS OF PRAYER which is utilizing Stormie OMartian's "The Power of a Praying Wife" to help wives practice SHMILY (verb-ally would that be SHMILYing?) on their husbands by providing a number of daily challenges on the blog sidebar.

I just found it today so am just gettin' started. I'll have to check that book out of the library before someone else grabs it.

Anyone else SHMILLYing?

Everyone Know it's Windy

2009-06-19T21:03:00.004-04:00

While I was organizing with Peggy at the church yesterday, it rained & poured. One never knows when it rains in town if it rained at home or not.

This was a yes day. 2.7 inches yes. And wind? - check that off the list too. Approx. 2.5 hours without electricity.
The condition of the road was my first clue. I got to make my way around several of these - note the rubbage on both sides of the road & realize that this has already been partially cleared.

Driveway.
Notice all those leafy bushes in my front yard? Those are branches fallen from the sweetgum trees.

I arrived home to find Stan hauling branches from the driveway & yard to the burn pile (bonfire for New Years?). This is how the place looks after three truck bed loads have been removed.

PTL the only damage we appear to have suffered was the knocking about of our newish antenna. Stan set it back up. It's still a bit crooked, but we were able to watch the telly last night.

Here's some tree damage in the neighbor's yard. I didn't get a good shot of all the trees down in a row in the wooded lot beyond their house (didn't want to go stand in the lake - still not willing to sacrifice THAT much for the shot...). It looks like something just pushed over a whole swash. Do tornadoes do that?

More praises:
No major damage to the house or garage.
Dog survived the storm in the pen.
No flood in the foyer.
That roof leak appears not to have leaked.
No hail.
Vehicles were not damaged.
I was NOT home alone in this storm!
>>>ahem.
Yes, I realize that I am NEVER alone.
But sometimes it is very nice to have around people with skin.

Cluttered Cabinet Un

2009-06-19T06:48:00.008-04:00

At the beginning of each homeschooling year, when welcoming new members & leaders in the homeschooling support group, THA, I endeavor to remember to show them our supplies. This metal monster has housed our crafty, organizational & PE stuff since it was donated for our co-op the '98-'99 school year. Many of the craft supplies are that old.
Early this past school year, when showing the innards of the cabinet & mentioning that it needed straightening, Peggy volunteered to help!

Since my kids have been at 4-H Camp this week, we tackled it yesterday. Peggy is diligently creating an inventory (What a great idea! Why did I never think of that? - I actually think because I have no laptop. That makes a good reason to go shopping. Yes? ) to make available to group leaders this coming year. On the table is only part of the cabinet's guts since we'd already repacked 2 shelves: paper goods & painting.

Her kids were great! Watching a couple library DVDs and drawing a couple of pictures kept them busy most of the time we were busy.

TADA!
That's a cabinet that purrs invitingly, "Come use my supplies. They are easy to find. You know you want to paint and make artsy things!"

Don't 'cha feel ready for school to start now??

Nah, me neither!

Home Invasion

2009-06-18T08:34:00.004-04:00

I was on the phone with my mom last night when Stan frantically gestured me into the bedroom; "Hurry!" so I followed him through my room into the master bath.

"Gotta go, Mom. There's a snake in my bathroom that doesn't live here."

I grabbed the washcloth & picked it up - sometimes non-venomous snakes void nasty smelling stuff when you catch them - then headed out of the bathroom & met Stan, who was entering while pulling on some gloves.
After depositing the cute little fella into Miss Piggy's old digs (we have'ta keep it long enough for our 4-H campers to return & see it), we grabbed the National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Reptiles & Amphibians and found him there in block 487 and/or 494 (details on p. 652) - a swamp snake!

My guess it that it was up by the house chowin' down on all the smaller-than-my-thumb-nail toads that scatter whenever I go to fetch the newspaper & mail. Stan said it was headed from the bedroom into the bathroom when he saw it so thinks it probably entered under the backdoor. No, we do not have a pet door.

Note proper snake-holding technique, similar to that of a teacup. Extend that pinkie. LOL!

Resurrected Mini

2009-06-13T19:47:00.009-04:00

She's ALIVE!
As you may recall, it's been a long haul.
April 25, 2008 : the saga begins
July 12, 2008: the continuing story

When last we left Mini, she was waiting patiently in line behind

the '79 Honda cx500 which has spent much of the past year living at the home of a bike fixer. It came home a couple of times but had to go back to the doc - torn stitches or something.

The age plus mystery-black-box-which-has-no-new-market-replacement-and-can't-be-circumvented-so-ya-gotta-find-an-old'en-that-works (gasp for breath here) made this fix challenging but now completed! Stan hopes to start ridin' it to work this week.
Now, to come up with a suitable name...

You can see that Mini welcomed the repaired old man with motherly tenderness & caution.

How do you like the new & improved Mini?

Gnarly?
Gotcha! (Or probably NOT!) That's not Mini.

That's some gangsta' wheels that whistled & tried to pick her up. "Hey, baby, come with me - I'm loaded."

Don't worry, we sent him packing.
(Who would do that to a Villager? LOL!)
Here's the real girl with master mechanic Robert checking out my marvelous mechanic's handiwork prior to starting the heart, eh, engine.
Stan wanted to MAKE SURE everything was hooked up the right way before adding the juice.

And she purrs! Just in time for summer with that frigid A/C! Yea!

Sidebar: Remember that BB had no A/C & the windows wouldn't budge - one reason I so missed Mini? For our anniversary BB got her A/C fixed. For my birthday, Robert helped Stan install a new driverside window motor so now my window goes down & up & down & up & down & up. :-)
But back to Mini: Still a little work is needed before she's officially on the road again - although those two took her for a little spin & got noticed by Mr. Policeman - of course, Mini had no hood & they ducked into a sideroad to quickly buckle their seatbelts (ticketing violation here in FL) & both realized that their wallets were still IN THE GARAGE. He followed them home but didn't stop them, PTL!

Living in the garage has not kept Mini from gaining some new body decor. Rachel claims Maryn is the heart artist but I'm not so sure. I see no signature & true artists ALWAYS sign their work.

Well, maybe not in a dust medium.

Here's a new face. This '89 Ford Taurus is Stan's new SHO car, standard with A/C & a sun roof, power windows & a security system that locks down everything until the proper code is entered in the door keypad.

I call her Beauty (Black Beauty, Beauty & the Beast - it fits!) but Stan wants a different name. Any suggestions?

Beauty is replacing Ranger as Stan's drive to work vehicle when he's not on the Honda. Ranger donated his tag to the cause & has been offered to the kids in age order for the price of transferring the title & purchasing a new tag & ins.

(suspenseful music here)

As Mini's saga ends, there are still some nagging questions:

Will Jacob take Ranger so he has a vehicle to drive when it rains OR will Caleb snatch up this deal so he has a vehicle ready & waiting when he gets his license OR will the boys let Rachel (who's always said she wanted a truck) become the new owner? Did Mini's A/C survive the engine transplant? Will Beauty gain a new name?

I'll keep you posted.

Happy 24th!

2009-06-10T22:13:00.002-04:00

I count today as my 3rd birthday.

My first birthday was when I was born physically.

The second was when I gave my life to the Lord & He gave me a new heart.

24 years ago today I was in a bad car accident.
"I cried unto to the Lord with my voice and He heard me out of His holy ear." (from "Thou O Lord")
I really did. While my car was spinning out of control into oncoming highway traffic, I looked right up into His face and called to Him, "Oh, God!!!"
He heard me and I did not die.

Some driving past thought, "Someone must have died in this horrible accident." Some prayed for me. Some came to see me in the hospital. Some nearly passed out in the hall. Some sent flowers and cards.

I thought, "If I were dead, this wouldn't hurt so much - but my poor new husband Stan."

Some doctors said, "If this, if that, if only ________, you would have died." Then several used their God-given skills to put me back together so that eventually all my parts worked the right way again.

Some others looked at everything and said, "God is not finished with you yet."

So I lived.
And I said, "Thank You, God for LIFE. This life is Yours, whatever You give me to do."
Happy Birthday to me.

Big Creek Missions Update #3

2009-06-10T21:34:00.003-04:00

Maryn & Jacob's correspondence
From a jeopardy game we did on stage that was really funny!

Part of my first group at Cutshin Senior Center playing checkers.

The staff fridge. Notice it is full of caffeinated and energy drinks. lol.

Friday we had a cookout.

We went to a Mexican restaurant Saturday night after seeing the movie "Up".

Sunday morning the guys all had a hair buzzing party out back. Kevin and Jacob were the first. We all sat around and watched.

From Maryn:
Hi!! The past few days have been great!! I really love my new group. it's 15 people, 3 adult ladies, and 3 boys. All of them are really nice and willing to serve. Yesterday we had training and my team cleaned the building. We've moved into the gym which hasn't been too bad. We stayed up Sunday night telling stories in our little lounge which consists of two couches, 3 fridges, and a table. Last night we had a dance off in the gym which was fun. Today was a really good day. It started out scary! We called the school we were going to and they were gone! So I was trying to call other places but none of them picked up their phones so we were really panicking! Right when it was time to head out and we were calling frantically, we got a call! The high school janitor was calling for help this morning! We were praising God!!! Yay!! We went there and cleaned out lockers, which was interesting. After that we had to go back to big creek b/c one kid was sick. (some kind of stomach bug has been going around. I haven't gotten it thankfully).

Then we went to God's Closet, an amazing ministry that distributes food, clothing, and even has two rooms where people in need can stay. It's an amazing place! You should look it up (click on the link above). It's in Manchester. Anyway, our group went to the grocery store and had 40 bucks to spend on a family of 3 who were in need, for a week. We got to deliver it and it was really great! Then I went to the post office with Katie Kilbert, the other leader of Big creek; she's kind of his (Kevin) helper and she runs the day camps.

HEY EVERYBODY!!!!! My week is going great! I've been leading/serving this group by myself since Sunday. It consists of two adults/drivers and twelve "students" and me! (makes 15) Neither of my groups has had health or "drama" issues, which is SO non-stressful. Last week we worked on closing in a porch and re-enforcing the roof struts in an ancient mobile home. It was difficult the last few days because of weather issues. We ended up leaving the project on Friday short one OSB sheet and two gallons of paint. SOOOO CLOSE!!! I was amazed at how God sped up our work and enabled us to do so much with so little actual work time! This week it looks like we're going to finish two days early; not necessarily a good thing. Our project this week is to redo the gutters, soffets, and plywood on a cinder block and wood sheet home. We also have to repaint the entire outside of the house. We've been working for a grand total of about six hours and we are about another six hours (at most) from completion. My group is very hardworking! The food here is good (Mexican tonight!) and I eat way more than I should every single day. I am going to gain forty pounds this summer. :)

Week Two-Day Three
From Big Creek website
written by Volunteer Editor Megan
The week is moving right along and we are seeing God work in multiple ways!

In the community ministry, groups went to Laurel Creek Nursing Home to fellowship with others, and lead the residents in craft projects. Another group went to the Hyden Senior Center and exercised with the people there, and also visited Hyden Manor. At Hyden Manor, the community group encountered a man who loved to praise Jesus, even though he could only sit in his chair in the lobby.

The day camp ministry is continuing to grow as well! The Hyden day camp had 28 children today, and Manchester has grown to 15 kids! Please continue to be in prayer for these groups, as they are working to minister to these children and share Christ's love.

As for the construction ministry, they are continuing to work despite the heat. The adults and groups are fantastic and are working fully to the glory of the Lord.

We still have no air conditioner for the gym here at the school, but we are surviving! This week has been great and we are thankful for the way God provides!

Miss Piggy & Miss Scarlet

2009-06-10T10:02:00.004-04:00

But we're not sure that they are female & I guess in the snake world they could be considered married...

Recent additions to the reptile room (aka Andrew & Caleb's bedroom) are this scarlet snake which was rescued from the cats (who have forgiven us for stealing their moving toy) and a hognose snake (aka puff adder) which was found on the campout.
We were uncertain if Miss Scarlet would live due to all the bodily punctures but it is looking better & has managed to down several pinkies. It has not been aggressive at all.
This is one of the snake types often confused with a coral snake even though it has a gray/white stripe rather than yellow.
"Red on yellow kills a fellow
Red on black, you're okay, Jack"
Coral snakes in our rural paradise always have a black nose. For a while we averaged killing one a year.

Miss Piggy provided much entertainment at the campout by first spreading the excess neck skin to appear cobra-like and producing a hiss like something 3 times her size and the end of the tail was curled up tight like a piggy's corkscrew.. It then played dead, over and over again - at least 20 minutes of dying - would've made any Shakespearean tragedy proud. I chose this photo so you could see the upturned nose & curved mouth. This snake has not attempted to strike at anyone and has not played dead nor impersonated a cobra while in captivity. It has chowed down on several toads.

I chose this photo so you could see how flat the underside is. This snake has the roughest (largest scales) skin of any we've held. Excess skin - for the puffing - can be stretched out on each side of the neck. Very interesting snake but not remaining in captivity. It tries to get out all the time & eats frogs & toads which we'd prefer to live in the yard reducing our insect population. Maybe we'll have the opportunity to play with it out on the island in the future.