15 years ago today I married my BFF. And saying that kind of sounds weird. LOL But, he truly is my best friend. I'm really not sure where my life would be without him.  Sometimes I want to strangle him, but most of the time we get along pretty good! LOL

We have had some pretty rough roads to travel but the Lord has brought us through each and every time and we know that He always will. I am so glad that I married him and I'm so glad that we have stayed faithful to the Lord and our marriage. Marriage isn't something to be taken lightly and it is something that you have to work at.  My Mama told me a long time ago that marriage is work.  I didn't really know what she meant at the time, but I do now!  I'm glad that we have fought to keep our marriage and I don't think that either one of us have ever really thought about leaving.  We have never let that even be an option.

"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Recovery

Well, Matthew had his surgery on Friday, March 2. Everything went fine, just as planned. He has had a pretty good recovery, although he still has a hard time swallowing food. I've had to make alot of milkshakes and ramen noodles the past couple of weeks! He's done pretty well but his throat is still very sore and he's having a hard time eating. He hasn't had any bleeding or vomiting so those are really good things!

I am praying about a big decision. Something that I have been praying about for a while but it seems like the Lord is just opening some doors and my dream could soon be a reality! I don't want to say too much just yet because I don't want to jinx it and I also don't want my coworkers to know anything about it. (Especially the bosses!) You can probably guess what it might be but I won't say until I know for sure what I am going to do. Right now I'm about 90% sure. Just pray for me!


"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Birthday Boy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MATTHEW!

Tomorrow is Matthew's birthday.  I know I will be too busy tomorrow to post anything so I wanted to go ahead and post a birthday message for him today.

February 18, 2000 I became a Mama.  I never knew how much I could love someone until then.  This past year has been really rough for Matthew and I am hoping that things start getting better for him.  I am seeing some progress and his doctor is also.  Dr. Kropp (the psychologist) actually suggested that one of Matthew's problems might be sleep apnea.  He referred him to an ENT specialist, Dr. Oliver.  We saw Dr. Oliver on Monday and Matthew's tonsils and adenoids are enlarged so he will have to have surgery.  I am hoping this will help with alot of the problems he's been having.

We have a busy weekend planned, we have a gospel sing to go to tonight and then we will be taking Matthew to the movies and out to eat tomorrow!  I am hoping for a great birthday weekend for my boy!


"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Update

An update on Matthew:

We have made some changes hopefully for the good. Matthew has been seeing a psychologist since the end of December. We really like him and Matthew enjoys going to therapy. The doctor also has a therapy dog (a solid white German Shepard) that sits in on the sessions so Matthew likes that too! I feel that the therapy has been really good for him. Something that this doctor has mentioned that hasn't dawned on me is that Matthew may have sleep apnea. Which would cause alot of the problems Matthew has been having. It wouldn't be the cause for everything but it could be making things worse. So, he has referred us to an ENT doctor to check that out. We will see that doctor mid February and I am anxious to see what he thinks.

Also, we made a decision that was risky but I think it was the right thing. We took Matthew off of all of his medication. I spoke with the psychiatrist about it before I did it and he agreed that it would be worth a try. I've been praying about what to do and I just felt a peace about doing this. I just feel that the age he is at right now, hormones are starting to kick in, and that, mixed with the medication, is just causing more harm than good. He has been off of the medicine for 4 days and so far things have been better (I'm knocking on wood here!). I'm hoping and praying that we are starting to see the light at the end of the long, dark and scary tunnel! (I'm seeing more of my Matthew!)

Home school is going good. It's not perfect, but it seems like every week it gets a little bit better. He is a little behind but we are working on getting caught up. He does like it much better than going to public school. I keep telling him that he has to do well and get his work done or he will have to go back to public school (that motivates him to try harder!).

I know that we will still have rough days but I sure am thankful for each and every good day that we have!

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1



"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Good things

Instead of blogging about all the problems we've been having, today I'm blogging about good things!

Last night my daughter (who is 8) accepted Christ.  She has been wanting to do it for a while but we wanted to make sure she was ready.  She is so smart and she knows in her head that this is what she is supposed to do.  But, we wanted to make sure she was under conviction by the Holy Spirit.  We thought that maybe we were too close to her to really see, so we decided to let her talk with our Pastor, Bro. Jerry.  After talking with her for a few minutes, he led her to Christ.  Now our whole family is saved and on our way to Heaven!  I am so proud of my little girl.  She is so grown up in so many ways. 


"But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 19:14  


The service last night was different.  We had a singer/songwriter Mark Lanier.  It was a very moving service and both of my kids (and most of the church) were in tears.  Both of our kids were touched by a lot of the songs.  Mark writes a lot of his own songs and he is very "ministry minded".  He thinks about how his songs are going to get the gospel message across to people.  http://www.marklanierministries.com

Matthew has started school with GCA (Georgia Cyber Academy).  He hasn't had to do a lot of work yet, it is still in the orientation phase.  Hopefully this week he will get his assignments and get started.  I think he will like it once he sees it's nothing like public school.  He still has good days and bad days, we are working on trying to have more good days than bad. ;-)

"Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:21

Oh, and one more good thing to add.  I started Weight Watchers January 1st and so far I have lost 5 lbs.  It is a slow start.  Usually when I start a diet or change my eating habits I drop the weight alot quicker, but I do realize that as I get older it may not be as easy.  I am not discouraged but encouraged by this, because I am 5 lbs lighter than I was 2 weeks ago!


"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13

Things are still moving along.  Of course, Christmas is right here at us and I'm not sure that I am ready for it.  But, it is coming either way so I might as well get ready, huh?  I will be as soon as I can get all the presents wrapped and get all of my cleaning done!  And then of course the cooking.

I've been in kind of a slump here lately.  Usually Christmas is a big deal for me.  I'm the one who puts every body else in the Christmas spirit.  I guess with everything that we have had going on I just haven't been in the mood for all of that.  Don't get me wrong, the true meaning of Christmas is special and important to me.  I just don't like all of the hustle and bustle of it all.  The crowded stores, the pressure to get everything done, and then there's the kids begging to open a present early!  As much as I try, they just don't "get" the fact that they are blessed beyond measure whether or not they get any presents at all! 

We've started seeing a new psychologist.  He seems really good, we all liked him.  He also has a therapy dog named Wrigley.  A white German Shepherd.  He was really sweet and gentle.  The kids loved him.  We will be seeing him once a week for a while and hopefully this will really help Matthew and also help us as a family to understand better and help him the best we can.

I may or may not get back on and update before Christmas.  In case I don't I hope that all of you have a very Merry Christmas.  Remember why we are celebrating and don't get caught up in all the hustle and bustle that drives us all crazy! 



"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7

Christ came to save a dying world.  God sent himself in the form of man to save us.  He was born a baby in a lowly manger, He lived a humble life, preaching and teaching, and then He died on the cross for our sins.  He was raised three days later and resides in Heaven.  He did it all for us.  Everything that we do should be for Him!

Good Changes

I have updates!  Good ones too! 

Bryan has accepted a part time position at our home church assisting the Pastor.  He is going to continue to work for the funeral home as well.  The church position may turn into something full time down the road. We'll keep praying and asking God to direct here.  It is amazing how the Lord works.

Matthew's troublesome school days are over.  Unfortunately he had a teacher call him a name and say some embarrassing remarks to him in front of the whole class.  This was unacceptable and I let her know that.  The next morning we went and talked with the principal and let her know what happened and we went ahead and withdrew him.  He only had three days left anyways, and I was not going to put him through any more of the problems he has been having! I already had him enrolled with the GA Cyber Academy to start in January.  My mother in law is going to have him during the day and alot of the work he can do himself on the computer.  We will work with him in the evenings on any projects and things that need to be done.  I think he will do much better and bring his grades up without all of the stress!

Keep praying for us.  It is finally starting to feel like it's going to be a Merry Christmas!  I hope and pray that all of you have a Merry Christmas as well!

Hope you are all as blessed as I was by this story.

There once was a man named George Thomas, pastor in a small New England town. One Easter Sunday morning he came to the Church carrying a rusty, bent, old bird cage, and set it by the pulpit. Eyebrows were raised and, as if in response, Pastor Thomas began to speak....

"I was walking through town yesterday when I saw a young boy coming toward me swinging this bird cage. On the bottom of the cage were three little wild birds, shivering with cold and fright. I stopped the lad and asked, "What do you have there, son?"

"Just some old birds," came the reply.

"What are you going to do with them?" I asked.

"Take 'em home and have fun with 'em," he answered. "I'm gonna tease 'em and pull out their feathers to make 'em fight. I'm gonna have a real good time."

"But you'll get tired of those birds sooner or later. What will you do
then?"

"Oh, I got some cats," said the little boy. "They like birds. I'll take 'em to them."

The pastor was silent for a moment. "How much do you want for those birds, son?"

"Huh?? !!! Why, you don't want them birds, mister.

They're just plain old field birds. They don't sing. They ain't even pretty!"

"How much?" the pastor asked again.

The boy sized up the pastor as if he were crazy and said, "$10?"

The pastor reached in his pocket and took out a ten dollar bill. He placed it in the boy's hand. In a flash, the boy was gone. The pastor picked up the cage and gently carried it to the end of the alley where there was a tree and a grassy spot. Setting the cage down, he opened the door, and by softly tapping the bars persuaded the birds out, setting them free..

Well, that explained the empty bird cage on the pulpit, and then the pastor began to tell this story:

One day Satan and Jesus were having a conversation. Satan had just come from the Garden of Eden, and he was gloating and boasting. "Yes, sir, I just caught a world full of people down there. Set me a trap, used bait I knew they couldn't resist. Got 'em all!"

"What are you going to do with them?" Jesus asked.

Satan replied, "Oh, I'm gonna have fun! I'm gonna teach them how to marry and divorce each other, how to hate and abuse each other, how to drink and smoke and curse. I'm gonna teach them how to invent guns and bombs and kill each other. I'm really gonna have fun!" "And what will you do when you are done with them?" Jesus asked. "Oh, I'll kill 'em," Satan glared proudly.

"How much do you want for them?" Jesus asked.

"Oh, you don't want those people. They ain't no good. Why, you'll take them and they'll just hate you. They'll spit on you, curse you and kill you.

You don't want those people!!"

"How much? He asked again.

Satan looked at Jesus and sneered, "All your blood, tears and your life."

Jesus said, "DONE!" Then He paid the price.

The pastor picked up the cage and walked from the pulpit.

Asperger's

Just before Thanksgiving Matthew's doctor changed his diagnosis.  A couple of weeks before Thanksgiving we met with the principal's at his school. He had been getting into trouble for retaliating against bullies and we wanted to share his side and see what needed to be done.  After speaking with them for about an hour they had us talk to the school counselor.  She picked up on a few things that made her think he had more than just ADD/OCD.  I have thought so for a long time but hadn't pushed the issue.  She thought that he was showing signs of Asperger's Syndrome.  I knew exactly what she was talking about because I had studied up on it years ago when Matthew was younger.  We already had a regularly scheduled doctor appointment a few days later so I talked with the doctor about it and he changed his diagnosis.  We haven't had all of the testing done but the doctor said that he fit the criteria. I have done a lot of research on my own and I believe he fits the criteria.  It's hard to get a diagnosis for Asperger's because it is so hard to understand.


Asperger's falls under the spectrum of Autism Spectrum Disorders.  Which yes, that means that Matthew is a little bit autistic.  This would come as a surprise to those that know him unless they have spent a lot of time with him and understand Asperger's.  Now that I am talking about this more and talking to some other parents that are familiar with Asperger's they are telling me that they can see it in Matthew.  I have a dear friend who I trust.  She has an 8 year old son with Asperger's.  She also has an older son, who is Matthew's age.  Matthew has spent the night with them a couple of times.  When I talked to her about this, she told me that she had seen it but hadn't wanted to say anything to me because she didn't want to upset me.  I assured her that I wasn't offended, I trust her opinion since she has been dealing with this for several years.  She gave me some books to read on it and they have been very helpful.  I am learning all I can so that I can help Matthew as much as I can.  One thing that we have decided is that we will home school him after the first of the year.  I have already started working on getting him enrolled into the GA Cyber Academy.  If he can get into that, it will be great because it's free and it's considered public school.  Just taught at home.


Now some of you may be wondering, what is Asperger's Syndrome?  As I mentioned it is a form of Autism.  Autism is a whole spectrum of disorders from very moderate to very severe.  Matthew is what I like to call slightly autistic.  There are some with Asperger's that cannot function as well as Matthew.  Asperger's is on the high-functioning end of Autism (which means he functions at a higher level than those with low-functioning Autism).  Symptoms of Asperger's include:

• Engaging in one-sided, long-winded conversations, without noticing if the listener is listening or trying to change the subject
• Displaying unusual nonverbal communication, such as lack of eye contact, few facial expressions, or awkward body postures and gestures
• Showing an intense obsession with one or two specific, narrow subjects, such as baseball statistics, train schedules, weather or snakes
• Appearing not to understand, empathize with or be sensitive to others' feelings
• Having a hard time "reading" other people or understanding humor
• Speaking in a voice that is monotonous, rigid or unusually fast
• Moving clumsily, with poor coordination

Pretty much all of these apply to Matthew to some extent.  Some just more than others.  Some trait's of Asperger's were more present when he was younger.  He has learned to conform to more "normal" standards as he has grown.  That is the thing about Asperger's, they can learn to cope but will always feel different than everyone else.  They feel that they don't fit in.  They often feel that they are very much alone.  This is alot of what Matthew has been going through lately. We've been having some issues at home and alot of issues at school.  It doesn't help when some of his teachers are not the least bit understanding!  I am very disappointed in the school and am definitely feeling that home school is the best option for Matthew. We are still working out the details for that to happen.

Sorry this was such a long post.  I'll try not to make it so long next time!  Keep us in your prayers and especially Matthew with all that he is dealing with.



"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Are You Sitting On The Lukewarm Fence?

BIBLE MEDITATION:
 “According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.” Philippians 1:20

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:
May God help us today in the midst of our lukewarm apathy toward the things that matter most to Him! If it’s worth anything, it’s worth everything. May God forgive those who will not go the second mile.

Now, in some things moderation is good, like eating, rest, recreation, exercise, and finances. But when it comes to spiritual warfare, moderation is a sin. When it comes to believing the Bible, moderation is a sin. When it comes to loving the Lord, moderation is a sin!

Suppose a wife asked her husband, “Honey, do you love me?” And he said, “Well, moderately.” She’d fix his wagon, don’t you think?

ACTION POINT:
Friend, if the world considers you a “moderate” when it comes to your Christianity, you are riding the fence of lukewarmness.

LWF Ministries
http://www.lwf.org

Faith

Faith is only a 5 letter word, but it is such a BIG word! Faith is one of the hardest things for a human being to practice.  Some people naturally seem to have more faith than others.  Some tend to worry more than others.  There have been times in my life that I have had to practice a lot of faith!  Right now is one of those times.  It's hard to have faith that God will provide when 3/4 of your steady income has been removed from the equation.  But, as always, God is providing in numerous and unexpected ways!  Are we struggling financially?  Yes, but we will be alright.  Are we stressed and worried at times?  Of course!  We wouldn't be human if we didn't.  But, In God's word, you know The Holy Bible?  It says this:

Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30

God has gotten us through worse than this, and I know He will now!  How do I know?
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5

Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. Matthew 6:33-34

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1 Peter 5:63

There are many, many more scriptures that tell us not to worry and to have faith.  God will take care of you.  You may not have everything you want, but you will have everything you need if you will just trust Him!  That's all He wants us to do, just trust Him.  If I don't trust Him, then I am basically am saying that He can't take care of me.  And if I don't think that He can take care of me then I am basically saying that He's not God.  I love the words to this song that The Sammy Glass Family sings:

The Lord can do anything, anything but fail.
The Lord can do anything, anything but fail.
Anything but fail!

And I will leave you with two of my favorite verses of scripture:
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13

Football

Football season is here! Normally I'm not too excited about football but this year my son is playing.  He is playing for the Rec Dept.  He wanted to play for the school but we thought he would be better off playing for the Rec Dept this year.  He's excited.  Tonight they have practice and he's hoping he get his pads and stuff tonight.  He wants to play defense and tackle people!  LOL  I guess it's better to tackle than to be tackled!

And Lily is going to cheer for the Rec Dept this year!  She is super excited about that.  The only problem is probably going to be that sometimes Lily may be in one place and Matthew in another! But, we will work it all out!

This is going to be fun!

Fall

I am so ready for fall.  There have been a couple of cooler mornings this week.  By cooler I mean it was in the 70s instead of the 80s!  LOL  I don't know why but I have always LOVED fall.  I love the colors and the change of weather.  Fall is just a beautiful season.  I would love to be in the mountains during fall!  We did vacation in the mountains in October a couple of years ago and it was so nice!  The little bit of cool mornings we've had this week has got me started thinking about fall and I just thought I would share my thoughts on the subject! 

Another reason I'm in the "fall" mood could be because I signed the kids up for fall sports.  My boy is going to be playing football!  And Lily is going to be cheer  leading!  They are both excited and I think it will be really good for them!  Nothing says fall like some good football (even if it is rec ball)! 

And I really just don't know where this year has gone!  It has flown by (I say that every year!) LOL

Change. . .

I have started this post several times.  There is so much going on right now it's hard to know where to start!  There are alot of unknowns right now.

Well, I'll just get right down to it.  Wednesday, August 3 my husband gave his resignation to our church and September 4 will be our last Sunday there.  I won't get into all the details but basically it's just time.  God has been dealing with both of our hearts on this for several months.  He hasn't quit the ministry, just leaving our current church.  We are patiently waiting for God to tell us what to do next.  It is a scary and exciting time for us.  I have complete faith and trust that our Father has a plan for us and that He hasn't left or forsaken us!  He has something special in mind for his faithful children! 

I'm sure if you've been reading my blog and or seeing my posts on facebook, you knew we were dealing with something.  I waited to post this after we were sure most people had heard because I hate for people to hear about it this way.  But, at the same time I would hate for people not to hear it and wonder what in the world happened! 

This is a new experience for us.  This was our first church as Pastor and PW (and PKs!).  We are praying that God will lead us and that we will follow His direction.  We are also praying that God will lead the church that we are leaving behind and that they will follow His direction. 

If you are reading this we would appreciate your prayers and I will keep everyone posted on the situation. 

But my God shall supply ALL your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus!  Philippians 4:19

First Day of School 2011

Matthew's first day of Middle School (aka Junior High) and Lily's first day of 3rd grade (first year changing classes).  This will be a different year for both of them.  Both were a little nervous this morning but I think a little excited too.  I'm anxious to talk with them this afternoon and see how their days went!  Here are some pics (as I post every year).

The Third Grader

The Middle Schooler

 

Sorry, but they will always be my babies no matter how grown they think they are!

You can almost tell by their expressions how they were feeling!  LOL

Life Is Easy, When Your Up On The Mountain
and You've Got Peace Of Mind
like You've Never Known
but Then Things Change And Your Down In The Valley
don't Lose Hope For Your Never Alone

for The God On The Mountain Is Still God In The Valley
when Things Go Wrong He'll Make Them Right
and The God Of The Good Times, Is Still God Of The Bad Times
and The God Of The Day Is Still God Of The Night

you Talk Of Faith When Your Up On The Mountain
oh, But The Talk Comes So Easy
when Life's At Its Best
but Its Down In The Valley Of Trials And Temptations
that's Where Faith Is Really Put To The Test
for the God on the mountain is still god in the valley
when things go wrong He'll make them right
and the God of the good times, is still God of the bad times
and the God of the day is still God of the night  for The God on the Mountain is still God in the Valleywhen things go wrong He'll make them rightand the God of the good times, is still God of the bad timesand the God of the day is still God of the night.

 and The God Of The Day Is Still God Of The Night

Quiet Time

Why Have a Quiet Time?

• To enjoy fellowship with God and get to know Him better (Phil. 3:8-10; Matt. 22:37,38).
• To delight God (Proverbs 15:8b).
• To discover principles to direct our lives (Psalm 119:105).
• To develop perspectives on life from God's point of view (Romans 12:2).

Practical Suggestions:
Set aside a regular time each day to spend with God and make it a daily priority. Find a quiet place where you can be alone and free from distractions (Mark 1:35). Have your Bible, a pen and notebook, if at all possible. Come with an attitude of expectancy and a hunger to meet God. (Luke 10:38-42) But, whatever your state or attitude, come and bring your thoughts and distractions to God.
Quiet Time Ideas
(Remember this is just ONE idea.)
Pray using the "Prayer Hand" illustration: This graphic is from The Navigators webpage

Start at the "pinky" finger, pointing your thumb towards you.
Confession - Agreeing with God about my sin.

1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Petition - Asking God for my needs.

1 Samuel 1:27 "I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of Him."

Intercession - Praying for others.

Ephesians 6:18,19 " And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel,"

Thanksgiving - Thank God for what He has done for me.

Ephesians 5:20 "Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Praise - Voicing my wonder about who God is.

Psalm 146:1,2 "Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD, O my soul.² I will praise the LORD all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live."

Once you go through this, you will see that just as the thumb can reach each of your fingers, so praise should permeate your whole day.

OR, This may be a little easier to remember...

The ACTS acrostic for your quiet time
A=Adoration:
Spend time praising the Lord by praying the Psalms back to Him (Psalm 28:7 & 100:4). Sing hymns, listen to a praise tape, or praise Him for His attributes.
C=Confession:
Ask God to search your heart (Psalm 139:23,24). Confess any sins the Holy Spirit reveals to you (Psalm. 66:18, 1 John 1:9). Make certain that you're filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:15-20).
T=Thanksgiving:
Thank God for all that He's done and is doing in your life and the lives of others. Write a list of what you're thankful for.
S=Supplication:
Pray for specific things each day such as personal concerns, family, upcoming events, friends, missionaries, etc. Write down your requests so you'll have a record of God's guidance and faithfulness.
Spend time in the Word

• Have a schedule for your daily reading and read slowly and thoughtfully.
• Ask questions about how it relates to your life.
• Reread and substitute your name in appropriate places addressing the passage to God. Try this using Philippians 2:13.
• Occasionally read out loud.
• Record your thoughts and the verses that stand out to you in a notebook.

To Do: Select a definite time and place for your quiet time for each day of the next week. Start with a short period of time that's comfortable for you. Try 10 to 15 minutes.

Copied from www.pastorswives.org

Article

In the book that I'm reading it talks about this article and this particular excerpt that I've copied and pasted below:  It is an awesome way of looking at our time with the Lord.

My Heart Christ's Home

This is the excerpt:

THE DRAWING ROOM

We walked next into the drawing room. This room was rather intimate and comfortable. I liked it. It had a fireplace, overstuffed chairs, a bookcase, sofa and a quiet atmosphere.

He also seemed pleased with it. He said, "This is indeed a delightful room. Let us come here often. It is secluded and quiet and we can have fellowship together."

Well, naturally, as a young Christian I was thrilled. I could not think of anything I would rather do than have a few minutes apart with Christ in intimate comradeship.

He promised, "I will be here every morning early. Meet with me here and we will start the day together." So, morning after morning, I would come downstairs to the drawing room and he would take a book of the Bible from the bookcase. He would open it and then we would read together. He would tell me of its riches and unfold to me its truth. He would make my heart warm as he revealed his love and grace towards me. They were wonderful hours together. In fact, we called the dining room the "withdrawing room." It was a period when we had our quiet time together.

But little by little, under the pressure of many responsibilities, this time began to be shortened. Why, I don't know, but I thought I was just too busy to spend time with Christ. This was not intentional, you understand; it just happened that way. Finally, not only was the time shortened, but I began to miss a day now and then. It was examination time at the university. Then it was some other urgent emergency. I would miss it two days in a row and often more.

I remember one morning when I was in a hurry, rushing down the steps, eager to be on my way.

As I passed the drawing room, the door was ajar. Looking in I saw a fire in the fireplace and the Lord sitting there. Suddenly in dismay, I thought to myself, "He was my guest. I had invited him into my heart! He had come as Lord of my home. And yet here I am neglecting him." I turned and went in. With downcast glance I said, "Blessed Master, forgive me. Have you been here all these mornings?"

"Yes," he said, "I told you I would be here every morning to meet with you." Then I was even more ashamed. He had been faithful in spite of my faithlessness. I asked his forgiveness and he readily forgave me as he does when we are truly penitent.

He said, "The trouble with you is this: You have been thinking of the quiet time, of the Bible study and prayer time, as a factor in your own spiritual progress, but you have forgotten that this hour means something to me also. Remember, I love you. I have redeemed you at a great cost. I desire your fellowship. Now," he said, "do not neglect this hour if only for my sake. Whatever else may be your desire, remember I want your fellowship!"

You know, the truth that Christ wants my fellowship, that he loves me, wants me to be with him, wants to be with me and waits for me, has done more to transform my quiet time with God than any other single fact. Don't let Christ wait alone in the drawing room of your heart, but every day find some time when, with the Word of God and in prayer, you may fellowship with him. 

Now that is something to really think about and it can give us a new perspective on our time with God!

Martha, Martha - Cheryl, Cheryl

I am reading a book right now that I really appreciate the name of the book as well as the content! It's called Having a Mary heart in a Martha World (by Joanna Weaver). If you've ever heard the story of Mary and Martha you probably already know what the book is about! It was recommended to me from my Pastor (from our home church) a few years ago. I actually have started the book several times, but I'm getting more into it now. I guess because I am at a place where I need it more now than ever.

I have become more of a "Martha" lately. I have gotten so busy with life, so busy serving others that I've kind of slacked off on what is most important. I haven't pushed God to the side, I just feel that I haven't been devoting as much time to personal worship as I should. I also feel that as a PW, my kids right now are my biggest and most important ministry. I know that this school year is going to be tough on both of them. Matthew is starting middle school and Lily is starting 3rd grade (which means she will start changing classes this year). Sometimes I tend to think that I am Super Mom and Super PW! I try to do it all. I am realizing more and more that God doesn't expect me or want me to do it all. At the same time I know that He doesn't want me to do nothing. But, at this time I think He just wants me to take a step back and look at the whole picture. Take the time to build my personal relationship with Him and then see what He will have me to do. It is kind of exciting, because I know that something significant will come from all of this I'm just not sure what! 

Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.  And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.  But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.  And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:  But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. Luke 10:38-42
(When Jesus said "Martha, Martha", he might was well be saying "Cheryl, Cheryl"!)

I also wanted to share this blog post from another PW.  Susanna Wesley was the ultimate Supermom!  LOL
http://confessionsofthepastorswife.blogspot.com/2011/07/confession-195-parenting-advice-from.html

This is the company I work for! I'm proud to be a part of such a great, family-oriented Christian company. I think I know who put this video together, and y'all did a great job!

We have had Vacation Bible School this week.  It has been a fun week, but it has also been a trying week.  We've had some obstacles to overcome.  I won't go into detail on certain situations but I can share a couple of them with you.  Our VBS director actually had to teach the PreK/Kindergarten class.  Which, if you have ever been a VBS director or taught a class you know how hard that would be.  We only had 4 teachers and each class had about 15-20 kids (the younger classes had more than 1 teacher though.)  Yesterday afternoon we had a situation that kept my husband from making it back in time for VBS.  He teaches the teenage class.  So, I had to teach both his class and my class for Bible study.  I don't mind doing that, I just hope and pray that the teenagers got something out of the lesson!  Another lady was able to help get my class to all of their activities and everything turned out just fine. 


The reason my husband had to miss VBS was because yesterday afternoon we noticed that my son, Matthew's left side of his face was swollen.  We got him in with the doctor that afternoon.  They had to send him to the hospital for a CT scan. What they found was that he had inflammation of the left parotid gland.  This sounds bad, but it was actually good news compared to what they originally thought it might be.  With antibiotics, warm compression and fluids, it should be okay.  We still don't know what caused it.  

Before VBS last night I prayed about several things.  I prayed for Matthew, I prayed that the night would go well with all of the changes that we are having to make at the last minute and I prayed that we would all be able to keep a good attitude.  We got good news about Matthew, the night did go well, and everyone seemed to have a good time.  

I have had several children that I have seen the Lord dealing with this week during VBS.  Anytime you are moving forward for the Lord and the Lord is working, you'd better believe Satan is doing his best to mess that up!  I heard a Pastor on the radio recently say that when the Devil is on your back, you must be doing something right!  I can boldly say that I KNOW that God is working at Little Rock Baptist Church and our VBS!  I've had a couple of children talk to me about salvation and a few others that I could see were paying close attention!  We can choose to let Satan win by being disappointed in the problems that we've had this week or we can REJOICE in the knowledge that God is working in the lives of our children and He is using US!  How awesome is that?!

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Ephesians 6:10-18

Vacation Pics

Camping at the River

I took lots more pics but I don't want to bore you to death!  LOL

Last Day of School

Well.....  Today is the last day of school......  My kids are excited......  Their Daddy is trying to find a way to keep them in school year round.....  and I'm sad that my babies are growing up!!!  LOL

The reason for my sadness is that this is Matthew's last year at the elementary school.  After today he will be a middle schooler!!!  How did this happen?  He just started!  And Lily!  She is going to third grade!  Second to third grade seems like such a big step.  She'll be changing classes (which she thinks is really cool!).  I am sure she will adjust fine, she is pretty easy going.  Matthew is nervous about starting middle school.  It's a whole new ball game.  And as he informed me just the other day, in just three short years he will be going to high school!!!

YIKES!

I know this is going to sound crazy to y'all, but I honestly was hoping that the rapture would come before the kids hit the teenage years!  And I am NOT playing when I saw that!  I know that the Lord will protect my children and that as long as we keep them in the Word at home they will be okay.  And it's not really them making the wrong decisions that I worry about, it's more the drama and stuff that they have to deal with from their peers. 

It was just yesterday that my son was graduating kindergarten:

and Lily was my little bit!

Wow the years really do fly by!

And the next thing you know I'll be posting Matthew's graduation pictures on here!

All I can say is PRAY FOR ME!  LOL

I didn't even turn on my computer yesterday, it was such a busy day!  From our Sunrise service and breakfast, to Sunday School and Church and then Easter dinner and then hunting Easter eggs with the grandparents and great grandmother.  We finally got home around 7:30 last night.  By then I was too tired to do much of anything!  LOL

We had a great Easter, needless to say!

As usual, here is a picture of my children on Easter.  They are growing up way too fast!

House Update

After a year of living in our house, we were finally able to finish the skirting!  The outside is pretty much complete and I'm so proud of my little house.  It is truly a blessing.  I won't ever forget how much of a blessing it is.

Lily wasn't too thrilled about standing next to her brother right that minute since she was mad at him! LOL

And here is a little reminder of what my house looked like before we moved it.  It wasn't bad looking then, just older and I like old things.

I would have been happy if we had left it like this.

Thank you to Hillis and Debbie Purcell for giving us this house and making this country girl's dream of owning a house come true!

Thank you to Mr. Laburn Purcell for his hard work in building this house as sturdy as he did, God rest his soul.

Happy Birthday Daddy

Daddy,

I wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday today.  I know that you are in Heaven and I pray that Jesus will give you my message.  This year you would be 56 years old and this is your 6th birthday that you have celebrated in Heaven.  Although we greatly miss you here on earth, I know that you are having the time of your life!  You would be so proud of your grandchildren.  They are all growing up so fast!  Matthew and Lily are learning to play the piano.  Matthew was playing "How Great Thou Art" this morning and I know you would have loved that!  He gets some of that talent from you.  Lily is an outside country girl!  (Kinda like another little girl we know once upon a time who would rather be in woods with her Daddy than anywhere else!)  She and Bryan remind me of you and I when I was little.  You taught me so much!

You taught me not to be afraid of anything (or atleast you tried to teach me that!)

You taught me to always stand up for what I believe in.

You taught me to stand up to bullies (pick up something and throw it, HA) (Derek didn't really appreciate that one! LOL)

You taught me to fish, hunt and fight!

You taught me to just be myself.

You taught me to love with all that I have in me.

 And the most important thing you taught me was that Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins and that He is the only way to Heaven.  If not for the foundation that you and Mama laid out for me I would not be saved and on my way to Heaven today!

So Happy Birthday Daddy, I miss you and I wouldn't trade the time 

I had with you for anything else in the world!

Tanning Beds

Since alot of people are hitting the tanning beds this time of year, I thought I would share a hilarious post from another blog.  Boo Mama is a really funny blog that I have enjoyed reading for years now! Here she shares her experience with a tanning bed in her college days.  Also a good reminder that if you are a melanin-challenged like me you should really be careful with the tanning beds!  LOL

http://boomama.net/2011/04/04/one-hot-mama-2/

Matthew playing for the first time in church!

His Daddy and I are so proud!

I do. . .

14 years ago I made a promise to the man of my dreams!  Today we are celebrating our anniversary and I have to say that I wouldn't change a thing.  We've had alot of ups and downs but if not for him, I honestly don't know where I'd be.  Probably in a mess!  Don't get me wrong, I'm not putting him ahead of the Lord.  But, I honestly believe more now than ever that the Lord gave him to me to keep me in line! LOL 

Not only does he keep me in line, but he makes me laugh, he's a really good father, he is patient, understanding and he helps me (alot!).

When Bryan asked me to marry him he gave me a heart shaped tin that had a picture on the front of it and inside it was tootsie rolls.  In the middle of the tootsie rolls was an engagement ring.  So, last night I found this picture, it is the picture that was on front of that tin:

 

 And this is our happy family!

This song was played at our wedding, but it holds even more meaning to us now after 14 years of marriage.

The roads that we've traveled
Ain't always been easy
Lord knows we've both seen our share
Of troubles and trials

It's hard to believe
We made it so far together
But just between you and me darling
It was worth every mile

It was worth every storm
We had to weather
It was worth all the evenings
We cried together
When the going got toughest
I could count on your smile
And looking back now I can say
It was worth every mile

I know you and I both had our doubts
That we'd make it
But deep in the back of our minds
We knew all along

That love's not for quitters
So we kept ours moving
Oh and I think you'll have to agree
It was worth every mile

It was worth every storm
We had to weather
It was worth all the evenings
We cried together
When the going got toughest
I could count on your smile
And looking back now I can say
It was worth every mile

And looking back now I can say
It was worth every mile