Just My Thoughts

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T21:39:00.000-06:00

Well, another Christmas has come and gone.. It’s just been kinda weird for us this year.. I am still recovering from my “simple” surgery and this past week both James and I have been sick with coughing and sore throats... ugh.... We did not decorate nor did we put up a tree. Sad, yes, and neither of us feel like it’s been “Christmas”...

So, I asked James, “what is Christmas suppose to ‘feel like’ anyway?” What a thought to ponder... And ponder I have...

As a child, Christmas meant "presents"..... cold weather, Christmas carols, Dad decorating the outside of the house with lights while mom "gave some direction"... It meant having the neighbors over to share in a HUGE feast, from which we would eat for weeks to come, or so it felt.

As a parent of young children, Christmas meant staying up late on Christmas Eve (reading the directions....ya know what I mean?) and getting up exhausted EARLY on Christmas morning to the excitement of our children's voices..... Quickly packing food in the car and heading to "grandma's house". (Just a side note... why is it that we always called it Grandma's house when Grandpa lived there as well?) Okay, so off we would go for a fun filled day with family!

Now, as a certified "adult" (65 years old qualifies me for that title) the grands are all scattered about and our Christmas day had become so much, shall we just say "quieter"..

So this brings me back to my question, "What does Christmas feel like?"

I will start with today... Christmas Sunday.. We began our day with prayer, then off to church to enjoy the blessing of a young couple dedication their infant son to God....then came the Lord's Supper..... Always an awesome experience... Hugs from friends, and a wonderful feeling of peace on earth... All reminders of what and why we celebrate CHRISTmas in the first place....

This night, as Christmas draws to a close, I can tell you that Christmas feels like "peace, and with that comes hope and the assurance that the promise God made to us over 2000 years ago, is still good today... He sent His Son, Jesus, to save us from eternal separation from Him... a promise that is eternal... That, my friend, is what Christmas feels like..

Living By Grace,

Marti

DAY 30 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-30T08:20:00.002-06:00

A day of reflection.... When I began this "30 Days of Thankfulness", I had no idea where it would take me. My first thought was of how many times we tend to say that we are thankful for "this or that", with no real thought given into just how much we take for granted. I'm not discounting any thing that God does for us, nor am I discounting what seems to be the smallest blessing. What I am doing is sharing with you just how much I have looked into my own heart...just how deep I have allowed my own self to dig, to remember, to reflect upon.

As I sit and type, I've had no idea where my thoughts would lead me.....and now, on day thirty, I look back and am in awe of all that God has done for me without my every truly saying "Thank You".

So, today, I want to say "THANK YOU GOD"....for sixty five years of Your protection, Your guidance, Your forgiveness, Your love....and yes, I am thankful today that God is not finished with me yet...

Thank You God!

DAY 29 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-29T08:58:00.000-06:00

Ask the blind man, he saw it all!
Sometimes we may be the only one to "see" what God has done in our lives.... for example, I know first hand how God delivered me from who I was; I know first hand the small and sometimes insignificant things that have happened in my life, all and only, because of God. Things that no one else would ever see or even know about.
If I see myself as the "blind man" (John 9:25b) then I may be the only one to every really "see". But the truth of the matter is this: Once I "was" blind, but "now" I see!
Thank You God for "sight"....Thank You for allowing me to "see" the things that You have done, are doing and will be doing in my life...
Today, on this 29th day of Thankfulness, I am thankful for both my physical and spiritual site....

DAY 28 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-28T09:30:00.001-06:00

Our first freeze of the season... I woke up to the sweet smell of wood burning as my James already had a fire going in our wood stove. On some occasions fire can be our enemy but in this setting it's like a long lost friend who has come for a visit.
Today I am thankful for that "friendly fire" that provides an area of warmth and comfort in our home. A place where I can get comfy in my chair and read, or simply reflect on "things"..... There is another fire that warms my heart as well....that being the fire of the Holy Spirit that reside within me.

Yes indeed, I thank You God today for the warmth of the "fire".

DAY 27 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-27T14:49:00.000-06:00

Isaiah 30:21....Your ears will hear a word behind you, “This is the way, walk in it,” whenever you turn to the right or to the left.

How many times have I heard God's still small voice (1 Kings 19:12 KJV) and ignored it. Not understanding, not wanting to submit to His authority, not trusting Him... And at the same time, needing Him so desperately....not knowing which way I should go....what choice should I make?
But now, fifty two years later, I can honestly say that "now" I hear His voice and I am joyfully ready to listen!

Therefore, today, I am thankful that God STILL speaks, and I am thankful that when I obey Him, it's ALL good...

Thank You God for loving me enough to still speak in a whisper.....

DAY 26 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-26T19:55:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful for the rain. Not just because we need it, but I'm thinking more of the fact that it causes us to stay inside and just be "together". It's been a great week for my James and I. Spending time together, doing the things that we both enjoy doing... And today, it rained.

Thank You God for the rain....

DAY 25 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-26T15:01:00.000-06:00

Time...today I am thankful for "time". That unit of measure that God created for us to "organize" our hours, days, weeks, months, years...... But today I am mindful that with "time" comes "choices". Choices of how we are going to spend that time that we have on this earth. Am I going to choose those things which have only temporal value, or those thngs which have eternal value? Am I going to make the choice to set aside time today for God? To read His word, read my devotional, pray? Or am I going to put Him on the back burner and get to Him when "I have time"?
Funny how we can always find the time to do what we want but never for what we need.... Just a thought.
So how are you spending "your time"? What choices are you making? Temporal or Eternal?

Thank You God for giving me "time"....

DAY 24 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-26T14:59:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving...

Today I am thankful for the wonderful memories that God has allowed me to have. From my earlist childhood we always had big family gatherings. I never gave it any thought as a child and I certainly took them for granted. Fast forward to today. This is my 65th Thanksgiving. Whlle this day is set aside to remember all that we should/need to be thankful for, I'm finding that I am most thankful this year for all the years that have past and how each one has been filled with family. Many of those have gone on to be with our Lord. Now, a new generation has emerged and the legacy continues....

Thank You Lord for an awesome day, set aside to be "thankful". My prayer is that I will continue to be "thankful" every day....

DAY 23 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-26T14:57:00.000-06:00

Philippians 4;19 - "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me". NASB

The "Him" of course is Jesus the Christ. And try as I might to do things my own way, I can't. I am weak, I make mistakes, I fail misserablly. BUT GOD... But God is my source of strenth, and just as Paul is saying in his letter to the Philippians, I "to", CAN do ALL things... HOW? Through HIM...

Thank You Lord for giving me the strength to accomplish Your will in my life....

DAY 22 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-21T23:27:00.000-06:00

Psalm 119:161b...but my heart stands in awe of Your words.

The truth of the matter is this: No matter what is going on in my life, whether it's good or it's bad, I turn to God's

word. The incredible thing is that He always, ALWAYS, has an aswer for me. It might be something easy, or it might be something really tough to read....but still, it's right there before my very eyes. I can find encouragement, wisdom, forgiveness, hope....all adding to the same thing. God loves "me".

Today, I thank You God, for Your words of truth; indeed, I do stand in awe of every one of them...

DAY 21 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-21T08:27:00.000-06:00

"Through It All" was written by Andre Couch around 1971. In that song, there is this prase: "If I never had a problem, I wouldn't know that God could solve them." Psalm 119:71 basically says this same thing... "It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I may learn Your statues."

As I think about this today, I realize the many problems/troubles that I've had in my lifetime; how each time as I turned to God for help, my faith was increased and time and time again, God proved Himself to me...

Therefore, today I am thankful for every problem that I have had because "through it all, I've learned to depend upon His Name."

Thank You God for every problem in my life......

DAY 20 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-20T14:16:00.000-06:00

Today I am filled with "thankful" for my church...that being the place where I worship publicly.....that being the group of people with whom I share my love for God "weekly"...that being where I go to give back to God, or at least to try, and to follow Him in obedience to His word....

I go to give, but always...ALWAYS, come out filled, restored and ready to serve Him another day, another week, another "how ever long He chooses"...

Thank You God for setting aside one day a week that is Yours and Yours alone...

DAY 19 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-19T10:39:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful for Saturdays..... James and I really enjoy Saturday mornings...with a cuppa coffee, sitting on the deck, and just reflecting and the past week. It's a special time for both of us....the quietness of it all and well, just being together.....

So yes, today, Dear God, I thank You for Saturdays.....

DAY 18 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-18T07:27:00.000-06:00

Each time I see someone less fortunate than myself, my heart immediately reflects on just how truly blessed I am. I recently read that the reason that children today are such picky eaters, is because they have so many choices. Contrast that word picture with a visual picture of the crisis in some areas of the world where children are eating out of trash dumps...competing with dogs for food..."willing" to eat "anything".... Where have we gone wrong? I have been hungry, yes, but never to the extint of the hunger I have seen...

So, today, I am thankful for the abundant blessings in my life...not only food, but shelter, clothing...a warm bed..

Thank You God for providing for me....

DAY 17 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-17T07:25:00.000-06:00

No matter who you are, what you've done, or where you have been, God loves you and wants to pick you up, dust you off, and show you a better way.

Today I am thankful that God, in all of His mercy and grace, showed me that way and I followed!

Thank You Lord for Your free gift of eternal salvation....

DAY 16 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-16T09:02:00.000-06:00

In a country where, for the most part, there is plenty, I find that I take a lot of "things" for granted. The ability to speak; to share my thoughts and opinions verbally, this is one of those "things".

I watched a special on TV about Gabby Gifford and her amazing struggle as she learns to talk again. The incredible love and support from her husband and her determination to "keep on keeping on."

Today I am thankful for my health...my abilities....my speech.. I can talk without a struggle; I can express myself (most of the time) with words that make sense... To some, no, make that "many", that may not seem to be much to be thankful for. To those folks may I simply say that you need to slow down...take a deep breathe and thank God...

Thank You Lord for allowing me to stay healthy and to be able to "talk"....

DAY 15 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-15T07:30:00.000-06:00

Psalm 8:3&4.....When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place, what is mankind that You are mindful of them, human beings that You care for them?

Today I am thankful for the incredible creation that God Himself has provided for our enjoyment. Many who live in the cities are seldom able to see the stars due to the many lights....But, out where we live, we have that opportunity to "look up" and not only see the stars, but to see God's fingerprints on all of creation...

Thank You God for creating such an amazing show of Your splender..night after night after night.....

DAY 14 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-14T07:55:00.000-06:00

As I reflect on scripture today, I find my thankfulness in God's written word. Jeremiah 29:11 says this:

"For I know the plans that I have for you,’, declares the LORD, ‘'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."

Today I am thankful that God does have a plan for me, and I am thankful that His plan is for my good...
Thank You God for loving me enough to promise me a future and a hope!
I love You Lord.....

DAY 13 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-13T14:36:00.000-06:00

Today I am mindful of those who have gone before us...paving the way....fighting the good fight...some were won and some lost. I am thankful because those who were sincere and commited to Christ, have succeded in getting the Word of Truth out to all the nations.... Today I am thankful that because of their struggles, we are now free to worship and free to serve..

Thank You God for the freedom we have today....

DAY 12 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-12T07:25:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for those friends who nurtured me in the Lord...disicipled me...prayed for and with me....kept me going in the right direction when the road got really tough..

As I continue to think about friends, and as I look back, I see those who have taught me so much.... how to bake bread, how to crochet, how to be a better rider/trainer... Team Penning, Reining Competitions...ribbons, trophys, state champianships.... All the results of lessons learned from my friends...

I thank God today for these friends (and each of you know who you are). Thank you for sharing the journey with me....and even as we have all now taken a different road, I will always remember and in doing so, be thankful for our time together....

Thank You God for these friends....

DAY 11 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-11T06:50:00.000-06:00

Today I am eternally thankful for my friend, my bosom buddy, my foxhole buddy for my "forever friend", Jo Epperson! Friends now for almost 30 years! Sometimes God just brings a special friend into our lives...one who "when the whole world walks out, they are still there". One with whom no words even need to be spoken because of the kindred spirit that exists.....

My Jo is such a friend..... I'm thankful that she is always there for me...good times and bad... I am thankful because she is the one that got me back in church after nearly five years of my "wondering".... I am thankful that she has allowed me to cry, rant, vent, with her....and probably most important, pray...

Today I thank God for my "forever friend".....JO!

DAY 10 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-10T07:51:00.001-06:00

I am thankful for my friends....and there have been many... Some have no doubt been sent directly to me by God and there are others that I have no doubt, that God sent me to them. So many years, so many memories, so many oportunities...

Today I want to thank God for my very first BFF; but back in the 1950's & 60's we still called them "best friend". Mollie McGowan was such a friend. We met in the seventh grade and we inseperable until I graduated from High School and life took me in a different direction. Some of you that are my age may remember the movie "Snowfire"; well, Mollie had the leading role in that movie as well as others during the late 50's. However, during a swim meet at Hollywood High, she fell and hurt her knee....it was at that time that we all discovered that she had cancer....Mollie died when she was only 19.....

Mollie taught me a lot about being thankful for my family. She, came from a very wealthy family; in contrast, my family was more or less middle class. I learned from Mollie that family relationships were so much more valuable than any thing that money could buy. I learned from Mollie that no matter what happens, faith and trust n God can cause a person to overcome; losing a leg and being able to ride her horse again was a real test and she passed with flying colors... I learned from Mollie how to be brave....all the way to the end...

So, today, I am thankful for Mollie McGowan....my BFF...

See Ya Later My Friend.....

DAY 9 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-09T07:22:00.000-06:00

As I continue to think about family, I find that today I am so thankful for the opportunity that God gave me to care for and minister to my amazing Aunt Clara during her last year on this earth. Although she and I became very close over the years, it was her last year that we were basically inseperable. She has been gone for four years (this week) and I still miss her so much. She had such a sweet spirit, and her encouragement for me got me through some difficult times....

Her sons, Steve & David, and daughter-in-law Janet, always (and still do) treat me more like a sister than a cousin. I love them dearly...

Thank You God for my Aunt Clara.....

DAY 8 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-08T08:16:00.002-06:00

Today, I am thankful for my grands....Matthew, Anna Beth, Sarah, Alyssa, Emma, MaKayla, Hannah, Jordan, Jenna and soon to arrive, Aiden! God has a special plan for each of you and I am thankful to be able to have some small part in that plan... I am thankful today because I have the freedom to pray for each of you every day..... You bring me joy for lots of reasons but perhaps today it's because no matter what ages you are, you still love your "Grammy Texas"..

Thank You God for my incredible grands....

DAY 7 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-07T07:57:00.002-06:00

Today, I am thankful for my children....Rick, Jeff, and LeAnn. Each of you have personalities that bring joy to my heart... Rick and Jeff, I am so thankful that each of you have become wonderful husbands, fathers and providers for your families... LeAnn, I am thankful for your love for God and your willingness to serve Him. Jennifer and Cyndi, you are amazing daughters-in-law! Thank you for loving my sons, even when they are, shall we say, not so loveable.. Steven, my wonderful son-in-law...... What else can I say but that I love you and I thank you for loving my daughter, but most of all for loving God "first"....

Thank You God, for providing for me with such wonderful children.....

DAY 6 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-06T13:57:00.002-06:00

Today I am thankful for my twin brother Jamie... Though I only knew him for 2 1/2 years, there are still some faded memories... We were so young, and his time on earth was way too short. Still, I am thankful that he was my twin. My dad's only son; he brought so much joy to both Mom and Dad and to Sandy too. From what I have been told, he was an amazing little boy. Today, I cling to the hope that I will see him as he is today, totally healed, and eternally worshiping Jesus..

Thank you God for allowing me to be Jamie's twin.....

DAY 5 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-05T09:19:00.001-06:00

I am thankful for my sister Sandy....who has loved me from the very day I was born. She always seen the best in me and it is because of her persistent prayers that I came to know Jesus. She has been my counsel in rough times as well as my encourager when I was ready to give up. If you read in the Bible the definition of a godly woman, you will see Sandy.

Thank you Sandy for loving me through some of the roughest times of my life...
Thank You God for my godly sister Sandy...

DAY 4 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-04T15:22:00.001-06:00

Today I am thankful for the wonderful memories that I have of my dad... For as far back as I can remember, there was never anything he could not fix... Whether is was a chain on my bike, a broken toy, or even a broken heart, he always had encouragement to fit the "crisis". Most of all I am thankful for the laughter....Daddy's philosohpy was simple.. "Always leave them laughing"! And that he did!!!

I can relate that to so many areas of my life.... Proverbs 17:22a A cheerful heart is good medicine.... Indeed it is!

Thank you Daddy for teaching me the bright side....
Thank You God for my dad....

DAY 3 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-03T09:29:00.002-06:00

Day 3...

I am thankful for family....today I will start with my mom who unselfishly spent sleepless hours during my childhood, providing me with the most beautiful clothing, each piece sewn with love..and for the many sleepless hours as she had to deal with a rebellious teenager...and I am thankful that after I had made a total mess of my life, she accepted me back home with no condemnation...

As I look back, life was not always smooth sailing for us, but today I realize that indeed, my mom "was" my very best friend. Thank you mom, and thank you Jesus...

Today, I am thankful that she is now resting in the arms of Jesus and that I "will" see her again...
Thank You Lord for giving me such a mom......

DAY 2 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-03T09:21:00.000-06:00

Day 2..
I am thankful for a godly husband....the leader of our home and my heart... He knows me so well, and yet, he loves me anyway! Just as God loves me enough to have reached down through eternity past, and saved me..
Thank You Lord for sending me a wonderful husband who loves You and serves You daily.. Yes, my James "walks the talk"!

DAY 1 - THANKFULNESS

2011-11-03T09:20:00.000-06:00

Day 1
I am thankful, first and foremost for my salvation through Jesus the Christ, my Lord and my Savior.. For without His mercy, love and forgiveness, I shudder to where my live would have led..
Thank You Jesus....

2011-10-25T11:26:00.000-05:00

And without faith it is impossible to please God,

because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and

that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.

Hebrews 11:6, NIV

What an awesome thought... I think the key phrase here is "earnestly seek Him"... I know that I love God...I know that He is my every thought, well, almost every thought. But do I truely "earnestly" seek Him? How do you define "earnestly"?

I found these definitions:

Marked by or showing deep sincerity or seriousness: an earnest gesture of goodwill; Of an important or weighty nature; grave. With a purposeful or sincere intent: settled down to study in earnest for the examination.Serious; determined.

So with that said, my prayer for today (one day at a time), is that I will determine my mind and my heart to "earnestly" see my Lord in all that I do....

LBG,

Marti

2011-10-03T15:47:00.000-05:00

It's amazing how much time has gone by since I last posted anything here... Life just happens and in doing so, I feel like I have sort of been "left in the dust".... but God...

But God continues to keep His protective hand upon my life...He still guides me..He still protects me and He still loves me...

When I stand alone and confused, He speaks to me through precious times of prayer and it's then and only then, that I know that no matter what, I am "not" alone..

Thank you Lord, for knowing me and loving me "anyway"....

LBG....Marti

Just When I Think All Is Well.....

2010-07-01T20:02:00.003-05:00

I have to question God sometimes....like, "why do we have to hurt so much?" Like, when our child's heart has been broken and smashed into smithereens....and there seems like there are no longer any pieces to put back together....like when you think that all is well and once again this child (29 years old) is happy and all is well in her world? Why is it that the enemy comes and in less than a blink of an eye, it's ripped away...."again"....??? Why?

So where do we go from here Lord? On our knees...that's all I can think of to do... Getting on my knees before God and asking Him to piece back together her broken heart...

If you are reading this, please pray for my daughter....that her heart will be healed and that she can move on....

In Jesus' Name......

A Lesson From Life.....

2010-01-16T14:55:00.002-06:00

Because I learn my best lessons from life, I want to share this one with you, taught to me by God and through my three year old grandson, Jordan...

GOD SEES THE WHOLE PICTURE

After way too many days of below freezing temps, we were finally blessed with a "warm" day. Only 40 degrees, but bundled up, my grandson, "Jordan" and I went outside for a celebration of "warmer weather" walk.

As we headed out to the pasture, and headed up a rise, I could see the tractor parked in the back hay meadow.... I told Jordan, "look at the tractor", but he didn't see it. As we continued walking I asked him, "can you see it now?" "Nope"......he still could not see it, yet there it was in plain sight.....

I stooped down to his level to point it out and sure enough, I could not see it either from "where he was".

As we continued to walk, the tractor finally comes into Jordan's view....the big smile on his face said it all..... while I was able to see the tractor long before he was, it's like I was able to see the whole picture, and in due time Jordan was able to see it as well.....

God see the whole picture in our lives as well. He sees what's over the hill before we can... Our life comes into His view before we even experience it. But, as we walk; as we keep our focus on God, we too will smile when we view the "other side" of the hill.....

Yes, indeed, God "does" see the "whole" picture....

Jeremiah 29:11-13

Just My Thoughts......Marti

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED....

2009-12-29T15:33:00.004-06:00

As I share in the heartbreak of my beloved daughter, I am finding that I have been learning MUCH!

There was a time when I thought that "hate" would be so easy for me to add to my collection of mixed emotions.....I thought that it would be okay. And now, when the opportunity has arrived, I can't find "hate" in my bag of mommy goodies.... Instead, I have found compassion.

I am learning more and more about "grace" every day. God has shown me His grace, and because of that and the fact that I am one of His children, I too should be showing grace to others as well. Not only when they are "good", but when they are "bad" as well.

I am learning that God's love for me does not depend on my behavior; not on whether I am "good" or "bad". God's love is consistent.

I am learning that I should not be teaching my children and grandchildren that "my" love depends on "their" goodness...... Instead, I need to be showing them that no matter what they do, I will always "love" them....I may be disappointed in them; I may be saddened at the choices they make, but I will "always LOVE them".

So what's next? I shall continue to pray for the person who is breaking the heart of his wife and of his children....I shall continue to love him "anyway" and to show him that no matter how "bad" he is, God loves him and so do I....

Thank You Father for the lessons I am learning, and I pray that You will give me the strength to follow You in obedience to Your Word as I apply these lessons to my life...

In Jesus' Name....Amen.... \0/

Sometimes Life Just Hurts.....

2009-12-08T12:49:00.003-06:00

Instead of being a magical and wonderful time of year, the Christmas season ushers in way too much sadness. Why is that? Why is it that the problems of life that go unresolved all year, come to a peak at this time of year? Why weren't those issues dealt with as they happened?

One thought that comes to mind is the fact that, once again, this is the enemy's attempt to destroy the hearts of God's children. Satan's desire is not to take prisoners, but instead he sets out to kill.

There are those who are very close to me who are suffering.... why? Because Satan slipped in, unannounced, and has caused one to believe his lies. Life hurts for this loved one today.....and, worldly speaking, there seems no way out of this....

BUT GOD! But God has a plan, even in our most desperate times. His plan is not always at the front of our understanding, but still, it is in place, and it's custom made for each of us.....

Therefore, if you are reading this today, and if you are a prayer warrior, then I'm asking you to pray....pray for God's Holy Spirit to fall upon this loved one; to open their eyes to see the truth; to return to the ONE Who can their life worth and purpose.... Pray as well for the one on the hurting end of this....that they will remain strong in Christ; thay they will NOT be destroyed by lies, but instead be strengthened....

Living By Grace,

Marti

THANKFULNESS......

2009-11-25T14:04:00.002-06:00

Ya know, Sunday night our pastor asked for folks to share something that they are thankful for.... What happened next has got me to thinking......
Some said thinks like, "well, I got up on this side of the grass this morning so I guess I'm thankful I'm still alive."; others said, "yep, I'm thankful for the air I breathe", and on it went.... Nothing deep or profound....
I had to ask myself and God "why"? "Why is it when we are asked how God has blessed us that we clam up and act as if we have no clue?"
Here is the answer that I believe is from God:
We, His children, don't take the time to recognize what He "really" does for us! Sure, He has given us a wonderful planet to live on, complete with air to breathe and water to drink.... He has given us a sun to warm our days and a moon to tuck us in at night with.... For the most part, we have good health, a home to live in and a job to provide for our families......

But there is more.....much, much more.

What about that intersection with the four car pile up? If I had left the house just a few moments earlier, it may have been me? I was so upset that I could not find my keys, but now? Praise God!
And what about the phone call from a friend, thanking me for praying for her son? What a blessing to know that God heard "my" prayer and I was a part of her son's well being?
Then there was the time the power went out (during my favorite show!) and because of that, I was able to spend more time with God! Indeed, THAT was a HUGE blessing.....

I have come to make it a practice, as I lie in bed at night, to think back on the day, and to ask the Holy Spirit to remind me of the blessings that God has placed in my path for that day...... Ya know what? He does and He has shown me that I am indeed a blessed woman....blessings upon blessings! That is HIS promise and He ALWAYS keeps His promises.....

So, the next time some one asks you how you have been blessed "today", tell them!!!! From your heart.....tell them...

HAPPY THANKSGIVING BLESSINGS,

Marti

No Matter What.....

2009-11-08T18:16:00.001-06:00

God is STILL God and He is STILL on the Throne!
The weather is amazing, and all is well in my world, "today". That's all I can ask for, amen? Struggles will come and struggles will go, and at the end of the day, God IS. Period...He Is, He has always been, and He will always be! It is from this thought that I take much comfort as well as encouragement...

Just Sharing......(it's about time, don't ya think?!)

The Constant in My Life.....

2009-05-06T13:34:00.002-05:00

The one constant in my life is time I spend with God...no matter what happens, "GOD IS"! He is the Great I AM....He keeps His promises.....ALWAYS....

There are so many times when a fellow believer comes to me and asks me "why" this or that is happening to them.....my first comment is always, "well, how is your relationship with God?" and "When was the last time that you knew that God was working in your life? Why do you think that has changed"?

My thoughts turn to the fact that we as believers, and all too often, allow the "ungodly" to enter our lives and our homes with out even noticing. Not until something unexpected and unwanted happens do we finally address the issue, and even then, we can miss the source. God is calling us to live a pure life...that means "sacrifice". We need to clean up our "house".....we need to remove those things that are keeping us from God's promises.....

From Beth Moore:
"We need concentrated times of deep introspection when we allow God to shed light on our hearts, minds attitudes and motivations."

So, My question for all of us today is this:
"What is it that is in my home and my life today, that needs to be purged so that I can grow in Christ and once again see God at work?"

Springtime in East Texas?

2009-04-06T08:10:00.003-05:00

Just when I was so SURE that winter was over....now we are under a freeze warning for tomorrow morning...Oy Vey! So much for all the new blossoms and young tender plants... some will die, some will only be stunted for a while.
It reminds me of how sometimes our walk with God can be...... There are those times when we get all fired up and there is nothing we won't do for our Lord. Then the "frost" comes and when we aren't prepared...parts of our commitment to Him become dried up and they die. The worse part is that all too often new growth fails to appear....
So, my thought today is this:
In what ways am I protecting the tender vegetation in my walk with Christ? And, should I suffer a "freeze", will I be looking for ways to allow "new growth"?

Just My Thoughts.....

MOUNTAIN MOVING FAITH...

2009-03-07T20:56:00.003-06:00

Okay, I just need to share this with you.... As many of you know, living on farm has it's perks as well as its daily "goings on"... Well, today while working, my husband got the auger (post hole digger via the PTO on the tractor) stuck...I'm talking "really stuck", in a root. Why we are digging so close to the trees is another story.... but back to this one....
So there is James trying to get the auger to come back up and the pin holding it to the shaft breaks and up comes the shaft but the auger is still about three feet in the ground.... He pulls the tractor forward and as I see the steam coming from both ears, I make an executive decision and go work on another project...
After a few minutes, I see that James is trying to dig around the auger (with no luck...finally had to get the axe) and here comes our eight year old MaKayla.... Now mind you, this child has grown up on this farm and she has a pretty good idea how stuff works....so here she comes and in her hand is a shovel.....she holds it out to her PaPa and says, "here PaPa, you can use this one, it will work." So where was her faith?
This shovel was a pretty purple PLASTIC shovel...the kind for sand.... It was just too precious to even consider it funny...
The bottom line here is that this child, in all of her faith, just KNEW that this little shovel was going to be the answer to PaPa's current crisis...
Now THAT "is" Mountain Moving Faith"!!

Just wanted to share...

Sixty Nine Years Ago Today.....

2009-03-03T07:58:00.000-06:00

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM AND DAD...

Today marks 69 years from that wonderful day in which you declared your love for one another....Because of your love for and commitment to each other, I was given life.
My pray for my own life is first a prayer of "thankfulness"...I'm thankful that I have the opportunity to serve God in any way that I can... I am thankful for an amazing sister who is, and has always been, my "Paul" (and I her "Timothy"). Thank you mom and dad for instilling in her the love that she carries for me....she knows me so well, and yet she "still" loves me....

I'm so thankful for the life you gave me...the memories....the lessons...and the unconditional love......forgiveness and encouragement..... You taught me what true sacrifice is....
Were you both here today, I could only pray that my life is a reflection of all that you have taught me..

I love you Mom and Dad.....HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!

As I study...

2009-03-03T07:45:00.001-06:00

This morning I'm reading from Psalm 119.....verses 161-168 have caught my heart. In vs 161b David says, "My heart stand in awe of Your words." As I pause to ponder this verse, I can't help but wonder "when was the last I was in "awe" of God's words.?" So, here I am, making my list....

David goes on to say in verse165 that "Those who love Your law have great peace." Do you see that? GREAT peace...he did not say, just a little bit of peace, nor did he say that "maybe" we would feel some sort of peace... nope! He said G-R-E-A-T! Great Peace!!!

I'm going to stop right there and pose these two questions to all of us today......
1. In what ways has God's word caused me to stand in awe "today"?
2. How, in my life "today", am I experiencing God's GREAT Peace?

Be blessed as you study today!

Living By Grace, Marti

February is almost over?!

2009-02-25T11:43:00.003-06:00

Where oh where has the time gone? Seems like I say that "a lot" these days... All in all it's been a quiet month...James and I have both had our yearly physicals and miracles of miracles, we are both "healthy"! Thank You Lord for keeping us both safe and secure....

So, James had a week of vacation and we have cut down trees, shredded limbs (lots of cedar mulch in BIG piles now) and not to mention MORE PLANTING!
I remember so well when we first built this home, we agreed NO FLOWERS......just keep it simple so that when we get OLD we only have to mow. What's happened??? James LOVES to landscape and I can see it now...we are going to go hungry just so that we can pay the grands to keep up our yard when we are too old to do it..
BUT...until that time, we'll just keep on planting, weeding, and watering....

Happy Spring! (almost)

INCREDIBLE!!

2009-02-13T11:13:00.001-06:00

If a funeral can be related to as "incredible", then the one I went to today, was!! This grand lady, was not only the mother to thirteen, but also a grandmother to thirty-nine grandchildren and thirty-two great grands, but she was truly a child of God...
The family shared how no one every left "Grandma's" without hearing about Jesus.....she made sure all the children heard about Him and that they understood His love and sacrifice for each one of them...
Story after story was shared about the close relationships each child and grand had with her....what a legacy she has left....
The legacy we leave is something that only "we" have control over......the things we will be remembered for, will in fact, be about who we are and what we did......Closer to home is, What am I doing and how will I be remembered after I'm gone? It's truly a thought provoking question, don't ya think?
I'm filled with much joy today as I reflect of the events of the day....and I'm so blessed....truly blessed, to have been able to take part in this incredible celebration..... Thank You Pope Family!!

Another "Good-Bye"

2009-02-09T10:14:00.005-06:00

We had to say another "good-bye for now" last night. I would think that by now I would be getting better at it.... There have been so many "good-byes" in the past couple of years. Each one has had a profound effect on my life...who I am and what I do.
Last night a very dear family said their good-byes to their mother. This is a very close knit family; six girls and three boys (one of whom has already gone ahead). Their mom, a godly lady of 84 years of age, was preparing for an evening out with family just three days ago.... Upon their arrival to gather her up for their outing, they found her sitting in her chair, motionless, having just experienced a massive stroke. Unable to move or talk, she now appeared to be sleeping... Off to the hospital, only to be told the next morning that "all that we know to do has been done". They return home with "mom" so she could spend her last moments on earth at her own home and in her own bed. The next day, Sunday (last night), with family around her, she took her last breath here and her first breathe "there"! What a "home coming".....
Now, those who have been left behind (for now) are grieving.....life will be different now...for them, and for me..... I'll miss those wonderful hugs that she so willingly gives as we great one another on Sunday Mornings...... Her joyful smile.....her compassion....her love for our Savior.....

This whole experience speaks volumes to me..... we truly "never" do know when that last time will come when we are able to tell our loved ones that we love them...
It really is all about relationships.....there are so many families that have unresolved issues....some petty, some larger, but still, I have to ask myself this question: "What is so important that it can keep a mother and her daughter from enjoying the relationship they once embraced?"

With that said, may I challenge those of you who read this blog, to be sure to settle all differences now....before it's too late.... The Bible tells us not to let the sun go down on our anger...(Ephesians 4:26). There is a reason for that.....and it all comes back to relationships.....
What condition is your relationship with your family in today? And, what can you do to make it better....

Just My Thoughts.....

The Holiness of God

2009-02-03T07:13:00.003-06:00

I've been doing a study on the Holiness of God.....can I just say "OH MY SOUL"! My heart's desire is to draw closer to God....so close that when I hear HIS voice there is no doubt......to come to that place in my own life where indeed I "do" love Him "more".... More than my own selfish desires....more than any created "thing"....more than my very own life.....
To Love Him MORE, means so much....it reaches far into eternity past and into eternity future, but most important, it reaches into the depths of who I am in Christ.
When I come into the presence of our Holy God, I want to really "know" Him.....that means that I need to be humble because I want to, not because it's just something I'm suppose to be.
When we really see God for Who His is, it changes every thing....
Therefore....how do you see God today? Do you see Him "high and lifted up?" What is it in your life "today" that needs to change so that you can present yourself "humble" before God?
Just sharing....

My Day Today!

2009-01-29T08:59:00.001-06:00

This is one of those days when I'd just like to hunker down and stay home, but...... my truck needs to be inspected as Saturday is the 31st and I have procrastinated....OY VEY... Once that is done, it's off the the tractor parts place to get a "over running clutch" for the tractor (that keeps it from running off with me when I put in the clutch); then to LifeWay to get some supplies for church, and oh yeah, not to forget my trip to Wall Mart for gas and groceries...(I have my OWN parking place and cart there!)

BUT...We all have a list, amen? Therefore (I love that word), may I leave us all with this challenge: In the busyness of this day, let's keep God first and be sure to allow Him to come with us as we go...

Have a blessed day,
Marti

STORM CLOUDS AND RAINBOWS

2009-01-24T09:52:00.003-06:00

I just have to share with you about a most awesome book that is now available... "Storm Clouds and Rainbows"....
It's not just because I know the author, but because of the life changing truths that are shared within the covers of this book and most importantly, from the depths of her heart. "Storm Clouds and Rainbows" is about a Journey from Despair to Joy...... This is a book that will touch not only your heart, but you life as well....
I encourage you to take a look today....you can read about and order this book by following this link:
STORM CLOUDS and RAINBOWS. For future reference, this link is also posted on the sidebar to the left under "Recommended Reading".

Prepare yourself now for a wonderful experience of God's unchanging grace...

Living By HIS Grace,
Marti

New Beginnings.....

2009-01-19T17:22:00.002-06:00

Here we are on the brink of a new era in the United States....With new leadership in Washington, more than ever, we need to pray....prayer is indeed the key that unlocks all that God can do for us....as a nation and as a person...
I've read the emails....I've seen the news and even though I may not agree with all the decisions that have been made, I do agree the the bottom line is that God "is" in control. What ever His plan, I vow to do my part to be obedient to His will...."not my own".
Will that be easy? Of course not....any one that knows me knows that I have the tendency to want things to always work out a certain way....but... BUT GOD....but God's plan is always the best plan!!!
With that said, I will be praying for our new leadership and seriously praying that our nation will turn back to God..... It doesn't take much more than a little common sense to see that every since prayer was taken out of school (not to mention the Bible), we as a nation have been on a downward spiral.....crime is up, homes are destroyed, and the list goes on..
Having said all of that, I look forward to a new beginning and with anticipation, I look forward to see what God does...
Just My Thoughts....

"TWENTY NINE YEARS"

2009-01-06T07:46:00.002-06:00

Today marks twenty nine wonderful and blessed years of marriage with my James. It's only because of God that our paths crossed and we fell deeply in love. Twenty nine years ago I never thought I could love him any more than I did on our wedding day, but yes, I have found that I can.
With each day that passes, I can honestly say that I love this man more today than yesterday. WOW!! What an amazing gift and what is even more amazing is that he feels the same way. God is good!!!
Now, as we have entered our senior years, we both look forward to all that God has for us and for the years that we have left on this earth to love on another...
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO MY BELOVED!!!

Reflections from the past week.....

2009-01-05T08:20:00.002-06:00

As I think about the past week, there is no way I can sum it all up in just one word. Our sons arrived home only a week ago with their family and dogs in tow. What an amazing time! They say that a picture is worth a thousand words, so I've posted almost as many pictures. Look for the link as you scroll down to the bottom on the left of this page.
I truly think the pictures reflect the happiness and the memories that have been forever etched upon the hearts of my grandchildren....memories now of those carefree days of childhood and of enjoying the freedoms that country life brings with it.
Among their memories are mine as well.....I remember those same freedoms as a child growing up on this very same farm. What a blessing it is to see my children grow up here and now my grands have the opportunity to experience the same kind of life, even if only once a year (for those who don't live here.)
So all in all, the past week has been chaotic, loud, busy, tiring, and now as I sit here in what seems to be "deathly quite", my heart is breaking because I miss them all so much. I am willing to trade my solitude for more.....much, much more.... I miss their laughter....I miss their smile..I miss their hugs and the words, "I love you Grammy"......
But soon......they will be back! And today, that is what I shall be looking forward to....
Just My Thoughts.....

TODAY IS THE DAY...

2008-12-26T07:15:00.002-06:00

I'm really excited! Today is the day....or shall I say, it's the "first" day.....Rick, Jen, Matthew, Anna Beth and Sarah will be arriving sometime this evening....Jeff, Cyndi, Alyssa and Emma will be coming on Sunday....THE TEXAS BOYS ARE COMING HOME!
We always have such a wonderful time when they are here. I'll be spending my day making last minute preparations and praying as I do. I'm praying for good traveling weather and safety for them all.....
Actually, we are expecting some serious storms in here lated tonight and into the noon hour tomorrow but Rick's family should be in before it hits...
Lots of pictures will be taken as new memories are made....
See ya all soon,
Marti

Christmas Eve 2008

2008-12-24T07:37:00.002-06:00

This is the 62nd Christmas Eve in my life....soooooooooooo many memories of "Christmas Past". This year I am really looking forward to our Christmas Eve Service at church tonight. I can't imagine a better way to celebrate than to be giving thanks and praises to the ONE for Whom this holiday (Holy Day) has been set aside.
I find myself starting this day with somewhat mixed emotions as well.....I can't put my finger exactly on it, but for some reason there is a sadness in the air. It may only be that I feel that way because my James is so sick...still, he drags himself to work when in reality he would much rather stay home in a warm bed and be taking enough meds to make him well...
BUT GOD....yes, but God has a plan even in our illnesses....and tonight James will be preaching at our services and guiding us through each step of our Lord's Supper.... My prayer is for him today....for his well being and for his healing....

I continue the countdown as well for our son's arrival home with their families (and dogs) in tow! We really need this time together!!! Praise God for His love for us and for His continued peace upon our home!!

Merry Christmas!!!

How Quickly a Week Passes...

2008-12-19T17:21:00.003-06:00

No...it's not "old age"...I refuse to believe that, but....wasn't it just yesterday that I last posted???
What a crazy week this has been, but lately they all seem to be like that. We have two members of our church that are in the ICU and in critical condition...well, actually, one is the son of a member while the other "is" a member. The later, a thirty six year old has still not waken up.. Her kidneys have shut down and she is now on dialysis three times a week. Today is the end of five long weeks that she has been in the hospital. The other is an eighteen year old boy who was in a auto accident...he isn't doing real well at the moment but we are continually seeking God's grace and perfect will for both of these people....

I'm totally excited about our boys coming home....just one more week and they'll be arriving "home"! That will be sometime during the week-end after Christmas! YEA!!! I'm trying my best to get this house in order and to get the pantry stocked...... We are looking to having a wonderful time....this is the first time the boys have come home during the winter so we are praying for good weather....it doesn't matter if it's cold; we just want it to be dry.....

Have a great week-end....Love to you all,
Marti

At Week's End...

2008-12-13T10:15:00.003-06:00

It's the end of the week, and the end of James' last vacation for 2008...."whew"! The man has worked me nearly to my death.....oy vey!!! I'm realizing that with age, I am just not the good ranch hand I used to be......my body aches in places that I have forgotten were even there....
BUT....we have accomplished MUCH this week.... Our hall bathroom is now completely remodeled and I must admit that "together" we did a good job....yep...we still make a good team. My dad would be proud of us.... One of our favorite memories of him is when he and James would finish a task and dad would take off his gloves, shake hands with James and say, "We make a good team!" Yes, daddy, it's all about team work and I remember that lesson well......

With the bath completed, (see picture link at bottom of sidebar on the left) new flooring here and there, I can now focus on the "homecoming" of our sons and their families.....CAN'T WAIT! I am actually looking forward to the chaos....the laughter....the fun...the FOOD...and the joy on the faces of my grands as they enjoy the freedom that farm life brings.... I suppose the one thing I don't enjoy is all the noise the guns make.... With two sons and one grandson that sometimes seem to live to shoot, there will be lots of noise from that activity..... That reminds me... I need to call my neighbors to let them know (more like "warn" them) that the Tatum Kids are coming home and NOT to call the sheriff....it's just those boys again....

Okay, so I'm excited......but for now, on this day, I shall be preparing my heart and my thoughts for a wonderful day of worship tomorrow as freely we gather in God's chosen place for us. I love church....and my life is so blessed....what a wonderful way to thank God.....being obedient to His calling and His command to worship Him with other believers.... I LOVE IT!!!!

Forever Friends....

2008-12-09T21:08:00.002-06:00

With all that is going on this week, I was able to take time out today to spend some time with a very special friend.. She is my "Forever Friend" We have been friends since 1984. Well, "Jo" invited me to her home this morning for breakfast.....WOW...it was amazing....she is an amazing cook anyway, but this was really great.... I felt really special too. She had the table set with her best dinnerware; the candles were lit and her home was all decorated for Christmas.... We had a special time together to just "be friends".
Every one needs to have a special friendship....it's just so comforting to know that there is actually a person who knows all those "secrets of the heart" and even the "not so nice stuff" and it's still a safe place to be because there is no condemnation or judgment.
It reminds me of the relationship that God desires with each of us.....no condemnation....I can just be "myself" and know that I am loved, "regardless"......
A special "Thank You" to my Jo...thank you for being that kind of friend to me......and I thank God that all those years ago, our paths not only crossed, but that we are now traveling the same path "together".....

Another Monday....

2008-12-08T08:13:00.002-06:00

Indeed, it is Monday again but not just any ole Monday. My James is on vacation and he has decided that we need to stay home this time (rather than go camping!) and oy vey...he has a list!!!
Now then, if you have never been around a determined man with a list, count your blessings.....it's not that I mind, it's just that, shall we say, he becomes obsessed about every little detail....from Sun-up to sun-down and sometimes late into the night, he has a plan and we follow it to a "T".
The joy, however, of spending time together and accomplishing so much is priceless. I do look forward to next year and the increasing possibility that James will at last be retiring from Kelloggs after thirty years of service to them. It will be then that he can devote many more hours to serving God in our church and community.... That will truly be our greatest joy....
But for today, it's off to the dentist for a cleaning (his, not mine) and then to the hardware store for some supplies and once we arrive back home, we'll be tackling his list, one item at a time...
Praising God as we go, and basking in His love.....

IS IT WINTER YET?

2008-12-04T13:57:00.004-06:00

I know that they are having some major winter weather up north, and here in East Texas, it is really cold today as well. Cold here is in the 40's with the wind chill around 30.....brrrrr....
Okay, so I'm a softy...seems like the older I get, the thiner my blood becomes. Like right now for instance...I'm not six feet from our wood stove (which is BLAZING!) and I'm cold....go figure.....
BUT GOD....but God is good and in all of His wisdom He has allowed me to enjoy the cold "outside" by my staying "inside". Now I'm rambling and for my "brilliant" cousins who get aggravated at me for doing that, HEY...you just gotta love me "anyway"!

All in all, it's a beautiful day outside....I've finally completed two more quilts, I've stated the handwork on another one.....my house is clean (finally!) and that will make James so happy when he comes in from his day....
Life is good....God is better....Be Blessed.....
Marti

A New Day...

2008-12-01T09:52:00.002-06:00

It's Monday....the first day of December...the last month of 2008. We are on the brink of new leadership in our nation and with that, change is on the way....
But for now, it's Monday and here in "home town USA", life is busy and I've hit the floor running... Much to do.....cleaning and organizing my home is second on my list.....(first being time spent with God in quality prayer and study!).
I'm excited and can hardly wait until Christmas....why? you ask? Not for gifts or any of the common thoughts as such, but because my sons (and their families) are coming HOME!! Actually, they will be arriving the week after Christmas....on the last Monday of the year.... It's been nearly two years since they have been home and it's going to be a wonderful time!!
Making memories can be so much fun and I look forward to creating great ones for my grands that will be here......I'm known to them as "Grammy Texas".....go figure =-)
My prayer for this "homecoming" is first for their safety as they travel; for good weather (rain that keeps six adults, seven kids and five WET dogs indoors is not a happy situation!)
Now....I must get back to what I'm suppose to be doing!!!
Be blessed my friends and have a wonderful week!!

A Day for Reflection

2008-11-29T12:40:00.002-06:00

With all the busyness around me, I find that right now, for this moment, I have taken the time to reflect. There is so much going on in our world and I can't help but to think that the human race has totally lost it. Yesterday an employee at an East Coast WalMart was trampled to death by anxious customers rushing into the store....to make matters worse, the people then became angry because the store closed and had everyone leave. When did human life become so disposable? I have no idea what could be so important that people would find it necessary to knock another down and then trample over them without a thought....what items were they after any way?
With that said, I shall pray for the families involved in this sadness and hope that somehow, some good may eventually come from this experience....
Just My Thoughts......

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-26T19:49:00.002-06:00

Another Thanksgiving is here...that makes sixty-two now that I have been a part of...so many memories and every one of them special. Of course, those first few celebrations are hidden somewhere in my mind but for those that I remember I'll just say "Thank You God"!
Things are different now.....my parents have gone on as well as my wonderful in-laws. Gone are the big family gatherings.... I miss them, yes, but life is filled with changes and with each one there comes a blessing. Sometimes hidden, sometimes not.
This year we will be sharing the day with our youngest daughter, her husband and their four children. We look forward to a wonderful and relaxing day....
I look forward to December, but I'll write more about that later in the week...
To all of you, may I pray for God's blessings to abound as you gather with your family and/or friends to reflect upon all that you have to be thankful for...
"HAPPY THANKSGIVING!"

Brrrr.....

2008-11-25T07:43:00.002-06:00

Okay, so it's not even "real" yet, but it seems that winter is here. It's 30 this morning and there is a pretty good frost on the ground. My prayer is that we "will" have some "real" winter weather this time around...sooooo many bugs that need to be killed off. I suppose those of you up north must laugh at those of us in East Texas that crave this sort of thing, but hey, what can I say?
Today I'm headed to town with LeAnn and her litter of kiddos....MaKayla needs new glasses and of course we need to make just "one more stop" for groceries before Thursday.
Praying for all those reading this blog today....may God bless you abundantly!
Living By Grace,
Marti

What an amazing day..

2008-11-23T15:20:00.001-06:00

God is good, that is true..... and today His presence has been such a blessing. At church we enjoyed our annual Thanksgiving fellowship.... One thing for sure, our church must have some of the best cooks around in East Texas! Praise God! I'm stuffed and I'm tired, but most of all I'm "blessed".
God arranged for me to have some one-on-one time with a lady in my Sunday Morning Bible Study class.... she really needed that time and I am glad that God allowed me to minister to her. If you are reading this blog and you are a Christian, please pray for a young man named "Paul". That's all, just Paul. God knows the rest of the story.
My pastor/husband is napping now and and the house is quiet. Still, there is much to do before this day is over...
God bless!!

Welcome to my first ever BLOG!

2008-11-22T13:45:00.001-06:00

It's about time I start blogging, don't ya think? What a great way for family and friends to keep in touch across the many miles that separate us..so, without much fuss, here we go.... Welcome to my blog!!!