Amazing Love! How Can It Be?

Amazing God (again)

2012-01-19T20:35:00.000-08:00

So I've become something that always bugged me: a radio flicker--someone who cannot stay on a station for more than a line or two of a song and is switching to another station and another line and then repeating this action over and over. I have not liked much on the radio lately and just flick from one station to the next while driving (the only time I have access to radio). Today, however, God chose to speak to me in a very personal way using radio. I am always blown away by the times THE God of the UNIVERSE deigns to reach down in the midst of BILLIONS of people and billions of situations much graver and important than mine and sends me a message, just to ME, saying "I have time for you; I hear your heart cry; I love you infinitely; I am reminding you that even when you are faithless, child, I remain faithful." He will do this in an "offhand" remark from a friend or acquaintance that strikes right where I need it and the bearer of the message has no idea, or through a note that "just happens" to arrive at the perfect moment, or a reading in my devotions that isn't even the "right" day (since I have skipped some days and no one (human) could know which day I would be on that reading) but it is exactly what I needed to hear that day...So how did He do it today? Well, not just by having me listen to ONE complete song that was searing my heart, but THREE songs, in a row, no interruptions or advertisements or comments--and they began when I started driving and were over when I reached my destination. I have pasted them here, no interruptions, no comments from me, if you care to read through them. Maybe you'll see a theme of sorts, maybe you won't. But there is no doubt in my mind that God was speaking to me, and oh, how I needed His words and what comfort and sweet HOPE I received from my Lord, and how I praise Him for once AGAIN reminding me "who I am to" Him. To God be the glory!

You Love Me Anyway by Sidewalk Prophets

The question was raised
As my conscience fell
A silly, little lie
It didn’t mean much
But it lingers still
In the corners of my mind
Still you call me to walk
On the edge of this world
To spread my dreams and fly
But the future’s so far
My heart is so frail
I think I’d rather stay inside

But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
Yes You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
How You love me

It took more than my strength
To simply be still,
To seek but never find
All the reasons we change
The reasons I doubt
And why do loved ones have to die?

But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
Yes You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me

I am the thorn in Your crown
But You love me anyway
I am the sweat from Your brow
But You love me anyway
I am the nail in Your wrist
But You love me anyway
I am Judas’ kiss
But You love me anyway
See now, I am the man who yelled out from the crowd
For Your blood to be spilled on this earth shaking
ground
Yes then, I turned away with a smile on my face
With this sin in my heart tried to bury Your grace
And then alone in the night, I still called out for You
So ashamed of my life, my life, my life
But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
Yes,You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
You love me, yes You love me
How You love me
How You love me
How You love me

Undo by Rush of Fools

I've been here before
Now, here I am again
Standing at the door
Praying You'll let me back in

To label me
A prodigal would be
Only scratching the surface
Of who I've been known to be

Turn me around, pick me up
Undo what I've become
Bring me back to the place
Of forgiveness and grace
I need You, I need Your help
I can't do this myself
You're the only one
Who can undo what I've become

I focused on the score
But I could never win
Trying to ignore
A life of hiding my sin

To label me
A hypocrite would be
Only scratching the surface
Of who I've been known to be

Turn me around, pick me up
Undo what I've become
Bring me back to the place
Of forgiveness and grace
I need You, I need Your help
I can't do this myself
You're the only one
Who can undo what I've become

Make every step lead me back to
The sovereign way that You

Turn me around, pick me up
Undo what I've become
Bring me back to the place
Of forgiveness and grace
I need You, I need Your help
I can't do this myself
You're the only one who can undo
You are the only one who can undo
You're the only one who can undo
What I've become

Remind me Who I Am by Jason Gray

When I lose my way,
And I forget my name
Remind me who I am

In the mirror all I see
Is who I don't wanna be
Remind me who I am

In the loneliest places
When I can't remember what grace is

(Chorus)
Tell me, once again, who I am to You, who I am to You
Tell me, lest I forget Who I am to You, that I belong to You, to You

When my heart is like a stone,
And I'm running far from home
Remind me who I am

When I can't receive Your love
Afraid I'll never be enough
Remind me who I am

If I'm Your beloved
Can You help me believe it ?

ChorusTell me, once again, who I am to You, who I am to You
Tell me, lest I forget Who I am to You, that I belong to You, to You

I'm the one You love
I'm the one You love
That will be enough
I'm the one You love

Numbers 28-31 and More

2011-11-03T06:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am late again--but I am going to finish up--and maybe keep going (selfishly, this is a very good exercise for me--keeps my perspective more God-centered, makes me more accountable to live and think in a way that pleases Him....)

#28--Laughter and time away with family. I know I have been thankful for family again and again, but I wish I could express adequately what they all mean to me. Whether it's riding in the car, camping, sitting around the table or in the living room, skyping, texting, talking, whatever....I love being in contact with my loved ones--nothing in life is more fulfilling, and my friends, who are "family," are counted here as well!

#29--SNOW! I love snow any time. But in October, what a treat! And who knew when I dropped my two men on the Appalachian Trail on a beautiful, WARM, sunny day (they hiked in shorts), that a blizzard was lurking around the corner and they would wake to 5 inches of snow and still snowing, leaves-laden branches snapping and falling all around? safety--so glad they were safe and actually enjoyed some of this adventure, which will certainly be a memory! safety also on the roads--I saw 10 accidents on the slippery roads going to pick them up...a 50-minute drive turned into a 2 hour harrowing trip...thank you for guardian angels!

#30--Pictures--to remind of us of those good times that grow faded in our minds some times

#31--Psalm 103--Wow! Try reading it slowly, digesting each verse, each word, each promise, letting the Holy Spirit minister to your soul--wow. (I emphasized some of the things that stuck out at me (there are more); but I hope I don't stunt the ideas that God wants to speak to you....so I didn't do them all....)

¹ Praise the LORD, my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
² Praise the LORD, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits—
³ who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
⁴ who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
⁵ who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

⁶ The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed.

⁷ He made known his ways to Moses,
his deeds to the people of Israel:
⁸ The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.
⁹ He will not always accuse,
nor will he harbor his anger forever;
¹⁰ he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.
¹¹ For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;
¹² as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

¹³ As a father has compassion on his children,
so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;
¹⁴ for he knows how we are formed,
he remembers that we are dust.
¹⁵ The life of mortals is like grass,
they flourish like a flower of the field;
¹⁶ the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.
¹⁷ But from everlasting to everlasting
the LORD’s love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children’s children—
¹⁸ with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.

¹⁹ The LORD has established his throne in heaven,
and his kingdom rules over all.

²⁰ Praise the LORD, you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his bidding,
who obey his word.
²¹ Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts,
you his servants who do his will.
²² Praise the LORD, all his works
everywhere in his dominion.

Praise the LORD, my soul.

A fitting way to end the month, I think...and THANK YOU to all of you who inspired me and helped me look to the Lord in thankfulness--I loved reading all your thanks--and look forward to MORE! Never think it is boring to be thankful--I think we are called to live in gratitude each and every moment of the day! Love you all.

Twenty-three, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, and twenty-seven!

2011-10-27T05:27:00.000-07:00

23--Evening worship service. Friends and family worshiping together (any time). Many times I don't FEEL like going. I am convinced the devil (or my flesh) is trying to get me to miss a blessing, because when I go, it is always so encouraging and growing and refreshing and just plain wonderful. A life well lived--Mr. Ken Matthews, who is now all healthy and restored physically, and abiding with the Precious Savior he loved and served so well while on earth--one of the most Godly men I've ever known. And his sweet family--love, prayers, and comfort to them all as they adjust to life here without him: bittersweet--knowing he's happier than he's ever been, but humanly, missing him terribly and painfully--weeping endures for a night, but joy comes in the morning!

24--Fall (the season) again! I am just loving this time of year.

25--Family over for dinner--again. My kids around the table laughing and sharing never ceases to amaze, delight, and fulfill me. Not much greater gift...I love you all so much (and miss the two far away in WV--glad we at least get to skype and pray for each other and that it WILL go much faster than we think....when we look back...)

26--Forgiveness--so full and so free--not just the part, but the whole! wow! What else can I add? Antibiotics to heal illnesses I fail to diagnose properly, resilient kids who endure my many, many mistakes...love so amazing....

27--glasses and contacts that allow me (who cannot read the big E at the doctor's) to see clearly things of this earth--and the Holy Spirit who allows the spiritual scales to fall off so I can see the things of God more clearly (now if I could just keep my spiritual eyes OPEN...)

Extras--FRIENDS! Life here is so beautiful and fun with all of you! I miss you when I don't see you. I am looking forward to times together in the future. Thanks for all the times you all lift me up when I am down and help me with weddings and parties and anything I need help with and all the laughter over the years and prayers and bike rides and campfires and graduations and even sorrows. All of you are really family, not just friends--praise God for you ALL! Christmas only 58 days away, birthdays, leaves, cookies, pretty tablecloths, flowers, phones, comfy tennis shoes, vacuum cleaners....

Thankful My Hubby is Coming Home!

2011-10-22T09:19:00.000-07:00

Number 22--SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO thankful my husband is coming home tonight! I miss him terribly!He is truly my best friend and soul mate!

Also thankful for open windows and crisp breezes, hazelnut coffee, reunions (not the formal kind--the meeting up kind) with family and friends, Mexican food, vacations and looking forward to vacations, my new grand nephew James born this morning and named after my father, the miracle of births,

for the Pro-life movement (by the way, a pro-life movie is showing at our church tonight at 6:30; Congressman Andy Harris will be there, too);

white chocolate;

clean sheets;

ability to get out and walk!

Thankful 18, 19, 20, 21

2011-10-21T10:41:00.000-07:00

18--Crunching of fallen leaves, a sound that brings many sweet memories, such as a little boy on a bike purposefully riding through these leaves, saying, "Listen, it sounds like rain," and it did, and it was so precious, and endearing, and I, too, would intentionally divert my bike through the leaves to hear it...and still do!

19--Grocery shopping trips that take less than an hour!

20--Safe travel for family and friends!

21--the ultra-fast communication we have nowadays--I know it can be a distraction and even a burden, but looking at the pros of it--when loved ones are far away, we can instantly get in touch with a text, just to say hi or to convey important information. CONNECTION--with others, so important to me!

Fourteen, Fifteen, Sixteen, Seventeen

2011-10-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

14--Not being a teenager

15--Pain medicine

16--Bike riding on an absolutely gorgeous day--well, bike riding almost any time! I love biking!

17--Friends who pray with and for me!

11, 12, 13

2011-10-13T08:49:00.000-07:00

thankful #11--skype--talking and seeing loved ones far away

thankful #12--Health! why is it so often that I forget what a gift this is? One day, one hour, one minute of not feeling well sure reminds me. But I want to be thankful for it all the time. I am so blessed to be able to do all the things I can do--and I don't suffer pain or illness. . .wow. Thank you, thank you, dear Lord!

thankful #13--chocolate :>)

Thankfuls 5-10 and more

2011-10-10T06:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I told you I didn't get on much--but here goes anyway!

#5--knowing how to read and books! Libraries where I can get books--free! Oh, how I love reading!

#6--Stephanie, Eric, Mason, and Jasper!

#7--Michelle visiting!! what fun!

#8--A new gas grill! woo hoo! Our other one, given us by a very very dear friend and have had years and years and was, as Luke so aptly described, going to be just a pile of rust some day when we went out to grill...oh, and for the dear couple who gave us the other grill so many years ago; it gave us many delicious meals and lots of good memories.

#9--the Bible (no kidding, no just saying it because it is so obviously the "right" thing to say); what truth, what love, what conviction, what encouragement, comfort, teaching, and so much more. Everything else and everyone else will change or disappoint at some time or another, but the Word of God remains steadfast and true forever and ever...thanks be to God for giving us His "very word, spoken to" us!

#10--looking FORWARD--anticipation--hope--new mercies every morning. What a privilege to be able to start again, to look ahead, to press on, to forget what lies behind....

Extras--family and friends around the table, laughing and sharing....safety in travel....being outside on lovely days...sitting around a fire...hugs...a dog who adores you no matter what...a written letter in the mail....

Thankful 1, 2, 3, 4--and more

2011-10-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

SOOOOOO--I just saw the thankful challenge for October--and it is the greatest idea! I know I will never get on here every day (reasons: I cannot control myself on the computer; I waste more time than I use it for good; I rarely get access to a computer in my house--others are completing much more important tasks on them all the time...) BUT I am going to try and post whenever I can. I read 1,000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp a couple months ago and it has changed (positively) my attitude and understanding of living here for Jesus on this broken planet. I started the journal and am up in the 900s but I plan to keep going as it helps me turn my eyes to the LORD and not just wallow in the circumstances and my self pity--He is sovereign! He grows us and blesses us ALL the time, even when we don't FEEL it or notice it. Thank you, all, for starting this challenge--may we spread the glorifying of God all over this old world! (oh, and the thankfuls are not in any order! Just list 'em as they come!)

Thankful 1--for my friend Marie <3, one of the sweetest people on earth

Thankful 2--for my faithful, loving, Godly, patient, fun, wonderful husband of almost 28 years, Tim (you're the best!) <3 <3

Thankful 3--for my dearest friend of over 22 years, Suzanne, who lifts me up from the miry pit and points me back to Jesus <3

Thankful 4--for my 5 super children, almost all grown up, and striving to walk the talk and grow in the Lord and follow His ways (i want to thank for each individually if i can get to it--you are all unique and wonderful in so many ways!) And for my three fantastic sons-in-law! Wow!

Extra thankful for the day-- (once you start, it's hard to stop--and you just want to keep going!)--for the season of Fall! Love the crispness, snuggling in blankets and fleeces, lower humidity, and wood smoke smells....)

Four Daughters, Three Brides, Two Years

2011-07-22T06:20:00.000-07:00

There are just no human words. Ephesians 3:20-21. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

MY "BABY" IS 15!

2011-03-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

HAPPY, HAPPY 15TH BIRTHDAY, HOPE!!

Sorry I couldn't find a picture of you to post, but you know how computer illiterate I am

WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

WE THANK GOD FOR THE BEAUTIFUL YOUNG WOMAN YOU ARE

HAVE A GREAT DAY
AND MAY THIS YEAR BE YOUR BEST YET!

WHERE HAVE ALL THE YEARS FLOWN? WASN'T IT JUST YESTERDAY I HELD YOU IN MY ARMS?

Feelings

2010-11-14T19:38:00.000-08:00

"Feelings come and feelings go,
And feelings are deceiving;
My warrant is the Word of God--
Naught else is worth believing.

Though all my heart should feel condemned
For want of some sweet token,
There is One greater than my heart
Whose Word cannot be broken.

I'll trust in God's unchanging Word
Till soul and body sever,
For, though all things shall pass away,
HIS WORD SHALL STAND FOREVER!"
— Martin Luther

A Beautiful Hymn and Prayer

2010-09-17T08:13:00.000-07:00

Commit Thou All Thy Griefs Trinity Hymnal, #669

Commit thou all thy griefs
And ways into His hands,
To His sure truth and tender care,
Who Heaven and Earth commands.

Who points the clouds their course,
Whom winds and seas obey,
He shall direct thy wandering feet,
He shall prepare thy way.

Thou on the Lord rely,
So safe shalt thou go on;
Fix on His work thou steadfast eye
So shall thy work be done.

No profit canst thou gain
By self-consuming care;
To Him commend thy cause; His ear
Attends the softest prayer.

Thy everlasting truth,
Father, Thy ceaseless love,
Sees all Thy children's wants, and knows
What best for each will prove.

Thou everywhere has sway
And all things serve Thy might;
To every act pure blessing is,
Thy path unsullied light.

When Thou ariest, Lord,
What shall Thy work withstand?
Whate're Thy children want, Thou givest;
And who shall stay Thy hand?

Support Target!

2010-08-21T09:06:00.000-07:00

I am not a big fan of Target usually. I have nothing against them, and they have been an employer for some of my friends and relatives, but I haven't ever been just crazy wild over their prices or anything; they do have nice stuff and several of my children do like their merchandise. Oh, and their returns are the easiest I have ever experienced and the store is pretty inside...(maybe I like them more that I realized...)
ANYWAY, right now I feel I want to support them in their contribution to the conservative in MN. I feel rather frustrated about the whole thing, however. Just try turning the situation around--say, a big and popular chain decided to give to a liberal candidate, and say, some conservative organization said, no, you can't do that. You have to give equally to liberals and conservatives! Can you imagine the outcry--not against the store, mind you--but against the audacity that demanding equal contributions would cause! Why are we hearing none of that in this case? ( rhetorical question--we all know why, of course) I am outraged by the "fair speech" supporters who demand "equal" time and money, as long as it is their causes that are endangered, but call us bigots and phobics when we express our opinions. It all reminds me of 1984 and doublespeak and the propogandists of Germany in the 1930's and Stalin's Russia and Cuba (you get the picture)--being regulated not only in what we can say, but even in how we think....what is that famous saying about "I did nothing when they came for the underclass, the Jews...and then they came for us..." (I think one of my kids may have posted that earlier...) Well, before the blogs are regulated, thought I'd exercise my free speech rights and express my opinion.

Jobless claims rise unexpectedly to highest level in 9 months

2010-08-19T08:10:00.000-07:00

Unexpectedly? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. These headlines always make me roll my eyes and laugh (not happily). Exactly whom is it "unexpected" for? Always amazes me that the very ones who consider themselves so elite and above us "commoners" really have no clue as to what is going on. As always, I am thankful we know who is really in control!

God Shows Me How Deceitful My Heart Is--Again!

2010-08-04T09:51:00.001-07:00

Ok, so today God chose to teach me once again how very deceitful my heart is still--and how gullible I still am. I got a call a while ago from a man from PCH (popular sweepstakes) about a prize we had not claimed. Of course, being taught by my ever-wise husband to be very wary of such things (and having experienced a couple instances when I was stupid, hating to say no, and always wanting to hope people are for real...), I was instantly guarded and unbelieving. I gave no personal info, waiting for the inevitable question for my SS number or credit card or bank statement number. I could hardly understand him as he was foreign (man, sue, how dumb can you be?) but I kept listening. The questions never came. He said every time I shopped at Walmart or Food Lion or JC Penneys and paid my bills on time, our names were entered and then they drew names every month for winners. (It all sounds so ignorant NOW). I kept interrupting and saying, I know this is a scam, a joke, you just want my credit card number or something. "Oh, no, ma'am, you really are going to get this certified check today at 2:30 by UPS." He told me 2 U.S. Marshalls were coming, and the names of two of the managers of the company who were on their way to award this check. Anyway, here's the lesson. As he was talking, my mind wandered. What if this really were real? Oh, God, that would be so good. We could do so much good with some money (and it wasn't THAT much--they really know how to make it almost reasonable). Anyway, he finally said he had to check something and would call back in a half hour. I knew in my heart it was a scam, but there was this little tiny seed of hope...I called my husband immediately; I quickly made sure he knew I had not given any personal information or put us in danger (I hope--who knows what they can use?) He calmly says, yeah, there's the clue: they are paying 99% of the taxes; they will tell you you will have to pay the rest to get the check. Just like that, he cut to the chase. But even more telling of my heart condition, I said, Oh well, I knew it was too good to be true, but I guess I thought maybe finally God had blessed us..." Tim says, "We are already very blessed, Sue." (groan; truth hurts some times) What was I thinking? We were just talking about our blessings this morning. We have soooooooooo many. Two hours later my evil greedy heart is revealed as I actually feel the slightest bit disappointed that it was a scam. Sin is so insidious. ( I am not usually plagued by the greed bug (not usually one of my"pet" sins); I have plenty of others); I have the tendency to want to give all my money away at the mention of a need or needs. But here it is: disappointed in God for not giving me some extra money. Ugh. I hate that I was disappointed, when God is so good to us. Oh well. I am thankful to God that at least I did not give any of our money or info away; He protected us from me! And, though it is humbling, I am thankful He cares enough to show me my sins and has provided a loving and merciful Savior who has made all things right. Next time, maybe I can share the Gospel with this scam artist...and may he not succeed in his evil endeavors with any other unsuspecting victim! Oh, and by the way this very India-sounding man's name was John Davis. I told him that was very American sounding for someone with his accent. He would not tell me where he was from. (Oh, sue, it all sounds so easy now....) Watch out; the devil prowls around like a hungry lion waiting to devour....

Congratulations, FINALLY! Edited

2010-06-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

"We have no greater joy than to hear that our children are walking in the truth." III John 4

I really have tried to post all this before now, but without pictures, I knew it would be super boring. So here goes today. I have so many things to be thankful for, and I am proud mother of wonderful children; I am so blessed, and I am not just being cliche. I want to congratulate them for all their hard work and to thank God for His faithfulness to each one and to me and Tim. We are truly humbled by His grace in their lives and our own. God definitely completes His work in our children IN SPITE of my weaknesses and sins. Thank you, thank you, dear Jesus! Now--in what order do I do this? Most recent? Least recent? Age? Random? So many decisions! Well, let's see how the pictures upload and go from there.

Ok. so the picture of Faith and Jared appeared first, up above what I wrote. How do I get them below what I wrote? Oh well. So here is our oldest child Faith and our dear son-in-law, Jared. We congratulate them for almost one year of marriage. They say they love being married (something I always have said about my marriage!) and that their first year has gone incredibly fast! Praise God for His goodness! May He continue to grow them in their love for each other and for God. We love you two so much! Thanks for all the visits and for loving us, too, in actions and deeds. You are very special to us and your siblings and siblings-in-law. So who is next?

Anna! (she showed me how to move the pictures--yay!) This picture was taken the night of her awards ceremony. Anna thought she could not do anything, and now, not only is a graduate of Delaware Tech as a paralegal and has worked for a lawyer for a year, but she is also pursuing her nursing degree. Congratulations, Anna! You have worked incredibly hard and faithfully, giving up social occasions to study and do well on your academic endeavors. We are very proud of you as we see you maturing in "wisdom, stature, and in favor with God and man." (Luke 2:52). We love you! (I would have included a graduation picture, but they are unobtainable at the moment.) Thanks, Andrew, too, for supporting our kids in these various commencements and ceremonies! You're a real trooper!)

Next--Sarah! (this is not the exact pic I meant but it is what came up and now I can't get rid of it; I am so inept at this computer stuff) Congratulations to Sarah for graduating with honors in accounting from SU! She has been accepted in the McLean, VA, PCA church's Fellows Program, a 9-month program which seeks to teach recent college grads how to integrate their faith into their professional lives and to live lives worthy of Christ's calling. She will live with a church family, have an adult mentor, mentor younger people, do missions in the church and community, work 3 days a week at an accounting firm, take theology courses, and probably more things I don't even know of. She will be part of a group of about 14 young men and women from across the nation. (Hayley Taylor and Jamie Sherwell are both graduates of the sister program in Charlottesville. Thanks, girls, for your information and support!) Please be praying for Sarah as she prepares for this program and is also taking an intense CPA review course right now. We love you!

Yes, and here is my "baby." Hope is 14 now, and you can see she is a young woman, not a little girl anymore. Where does time go? It is fleeting as the Bible teaches. Oh, Lord, as Jason often says of a missionary or preacher whose name I cannot recall at the moment, "Stamp eternity on my eyelids." Oh, that I could live each day with that knowledge: make the most of every day, big and small, FOR the LORD.) Congratulations, Hope (and Allie)! You are so beautiful. And we are proud of the way you have persevered and grown in your dancing abilities. Five years! That's a lot of dancing. We are also thankful for your growth in helping out your family and your perseverance in your academics. We look forward to seeing what God will do in your future as you seek His will and ways for your life! We love you.

I love this picture of our son. Congratulations, Luke, for graduating from high school. Luke is right now in Africa with Launch Out Missions (taken from Luke 5:4, KJV) until July 7. He left Sunday, May 30, and will be traveling to at least 6 different countries. Obviously, we are on our knees praying for his safety. Our prayers also ask that he glorify God in his travels, that he grow in His walk and relationship with Christ, that he gets along with and ministers well with his team (and that all of them are safe, too), that the people he ministers to will be open to the Gospel, that everyone will be healthy and strong as the Israelite captives in Daniel's day were as they followed the Lord, that the angels of the LORD will go before them and be around them, protecting them against hostile forces, seen and unseen, that God would be Luke's God, real to him like He was to David, Charles Spurgeon, Amy Carmichael, David Brainerd, Martin Luther, Jonathan Goforth, David Livingston, and so many others, that God may give Luke some direction and wisdom as to what He wants him to do with his life, and of course, that he return safely to us (and hopefully have an impact for Jesus on all of us at home). Tall prayers? Well, God is able to do exceedingly abundantly more than we ask or think! We love you, Luke, and miss you. (We would be very glad to have you pray, too! Thanks.)

And, no thankful blogpost would be complete without tribute to my dear husband, Tim, the anchor of our family. He works so terribly hard to provide for us and encourage us and lead us to Jesus and help others and to serve God. I love him so and our children do, too. I really like this picture of him at Sarah's graduation. (You grow more handsome each year, honey!) I thank God for you; what a wonderful life we have been given together. Thanks for always being there; you are faithful and true. May God give us many more years together and may they be even better than the first 26! I love you.

And why do I not blog more than every 5 months or so? because it takes me so long to do. I would be embarassed to tell you how long I have been doing this. Oh well. Before I sign off, though, I want to thank God for all of you--I have the greatest family of friends! I love you, too!

edited post

2010-01-19T09:55:00.000-08:00

I posted, then removed it. I should have another one up soon. Sorry for the mistake. Have a good day in the LORD!

Give Thanks

2009-11-26T08:44:00.000-08:00

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." I Thessalonians 5:16-18

" Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks and praise His name. For the Lord is good, and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues throughout all generations." Psalm 100:4-5

HAPPY THANKS-GIVING!

I do not do really well in the category above: being always joyful, thanking God in ALL circumstances, remembering the Lord is good, His love endures forever, and His faithfulness and mercy continues throughout generations; I am often like the Israelites in the desert complaining and whining when God is abundantly providing more than I could imagine or ask for. However, I feel very much like I need to take a few minutes today to be thankful and hopefully, I will also concentrate more on having a grateful attitude more often! And cheesy or not, here is a partial list:

I am thankful:

--For Jesus and His saving grace

--For a Godly, loving, hard-working, fun, faithful, exciting, caring husband

--For five Godly, healthy, wonderful young adult children and a Godly, super son-in-law

--For my husband's job

--For being able to stay home and home school my childre

--For my teaching job and God's faithfulness in so many ways in it

--For my best friend and sister in the Lord

--For my other great friends

--For my daughter's new job!

--For my church family

--For my family family

--For my home

--For a country which at this moment at least allows many freedoms and has been very good to me

--For health

--For the ability to read and talk and share time with good friends and family

--For the beauty of the earth (I love to be outside!)

--For camping and hiking and biking

--For good food and drink

--For all of you

And much, much, more! I hope you all have a superb and fun and grateful Thanksgiving!

Where Right is Wrong and Evil Parades in the Streets

2009-10-09T05:15:00.000-07:00

What is the world coming to? (Did any of your parents or grandparents ever say this?)
Obama winning the Nobel Peace Prize? Is this an incredible joke or what? I am speechless and frustrated and angry. Skimming some of the news reports for some semblance of reason, I see comments about how the Committee awarded this prize prematurely and must be trying to encourage Obama to "continue" doing what he is doing and that he has brought so much hope to the world, a new aura of hope for the future of world peace, and they want him to continue....etc. He has done NOTHING. Nothing but alienate the people, increase our burdens, support legislature to take away our freedoms... Unbelieveable! Since when do we give a prestigious award to someone we "HOPE" will bring about something good?!! That is crazy! (Not that I have much or any respect for these Nobel Prizes as I consider the winners the last few years--Al Gore, Jimmy Carter, Nelson Mandela...) I am just aghast and want to try and express this churning sickness in the pit of my stomach as I watch what is happening all around us. Did the TenBoom family feel this way? Life just going along as normal in the family arena, making a living, feeding the children, going shopping, regular every day things, and yet all these unreal and crazy events happening. It's like I'm on the top of a wave, being swept along, no control over decisions my "representatives" (who are only representing themselves) are doing. Don't criticize anybody unless he is a Christian; you might be put in jail. I sound paranoid, but I have to wonder if my eyes are just being opened. It's like people all around are in some sort of trance, drinking the poisoned koolaid because Big Brother tells them to, believing and buying the lies, just don't take away my soma in my brave new world. Whew! Thanks for letting me get this off my chest. I know our God is in control; I don't doubt that. I pray He shows me what my role day to day is in all this. May He have mercy on us all and give us His wisdom. I am still aghast.

THANK YOU!

2009-10-08T09:39:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I have been struggling this fall semester with FEAR. Mostly it has been in my classes. I really felt oppressed. I mean, I taught one of these classes this summer (you'd think 2 sections 2 days a week after not being in the classroom for 20 years AND planning a wedding for 300 at my house would have done me in); however, this fall has just been a struggle, to the point of dreading having to show up. I imagined all my students just staring at me, thinking things like, "You are the dumbest, most boring, worst teacher I have ever had!" It made me nervous and then I really did look like a dummy as I stumbled over my words and information that I KNOW. Anyway, I began sharing this and asking you to pray, and because I so often forget or neglect to give God the praise and glory for His answers big and small, and because I want to thank you faithful friends for praying, I am posting now. Last week things went better; I wondered if it was because I was collecting assignments and listening to speeches and wasn't having to be in front as much, but no, it really IS better, praise the LORD! This week went very well. I felt I had a handle on my information, that it was coming out more clearly, and I may even be helping some students! It's Thursday and class is over till Tuesday, and I actually enjoyed this week! I enjoyed it this summer, and I was wondering what was going on. I think this may be and ongoing battle as I fight for joy and right and true thoughts and positive emotions in every day life, but what a blessing to have this gift of reassurance right now. Thank you, thank you, dear friends, for praying. Thank you, dear Lord, for being ever faithful and loving and merciful; when I am weak, You are strong.

Class is over!

2009-07-28T11:43:00.000-07:00

(Don't I wish?!)

I would like to take wonderful pictures like the two A. H. girls, but I can't (so I just borrow them). This summer has been very FULL, as many of you know or can see....

CELEBRATE!

I taught two English 101 classes two days a week for ten weeks after not being in a "real" classroom for twenty years (yes, home schooling is real, I know, but I think you understand what I mean). Today was the last day of classes. We planned and held a wedding for 300 in our backyard. One of our daughters became a wife. We celebrated Independence Day with our best friends , and I rode a jet ski for the very first time, and we were treated to a spectacular display of fireworks by the river. Soon (I hope) we will vacation for a few days with family, and then go away by ourselves....and then it all begins again: home school, teaching two college classes, taking care of home and hearth...life is busy but good.

Wedding Bliss

2009-07-12T18:43:00.000-07:00

Ephesians 3:20-21 "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine. . .to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all genterations, for ever and ever! Amen."

There are no words to express how blessed we are. We love you all. We deserve nothing, but God gives us everything. I am too tired to express even partially the fullness in my heart, love of family, love of friends, thankfulness to God, but I wanted to say something. I hope to say more later!

Countdown to Married Bliss

2009-07-02T08:45:00.000-07:00

There are so many ideas and thoughts swirling in my little, old brain.

***How does a darling baby grow so fast from needing me for even her very sustenance into an inquisitive, bright, cute girl who requires my assistance getting places into a beautiful, independent, Godly young woman with dreams and plans and goals and loves and hates of her own (who needs nothing from me)?

****How do I express all that is in my heart before she moves on? How much I love her and always will. How proud I am of her. How I will miss knowing she is just down the hall, a shout :>) away. How I am so excited and happy thinking of her in her new, adorable home as she begins her new journey with her one and only. How my heart will leap when she calls or stops by just to tell me something or to eat a meal with us. How her dad and I will always, no matter what, be here for her, and for her true love, but how we will not interfere....how I will pray for her and him continuously, that they grow together in love for each other and for the Lord...

****How do I get everything completed, or know what needs completing, and then just TRUST God. Actually, HOW do I trust God? Forgive me for being such a worrier. You are so faithful and merciful and true.

****How do I ever thank my family for all their HARD word to prepare? Each and every one has worked so faithfully and well. How I pray for you to have positive memories, gratified memories, knowing you have done the right things, knowing you have given of yourselves, not just to people, but to the Lord. May He bless you and teach you. May we all rejoice with the new couple and be thankful for them and excited and happy with them.

****How do I thank all my friends, and really, my family (which is my church) for all the support and help they have been? It has been so humbling and encouraging to see you at work. Please keep praying.

NINE MORE DAYS! May God be glorified on
that day and in their marriage. Amen.

Wedding Workings

2009-06-15T13:51:00.000-07:00

An update on how the garden(s) grow....

Goodbye, Kitty

2009-05-07T11:54:00.000-07:00

Well, today I did something I have never done before: had an animal "put down," a euphemism for other harsher terms, including "euthanized." I know in my heart of hearts it was the right thing to do; our cat, whom we have only had since January, and who was barely, if even, one year old, had a fatal disease called FIPV. History: the older siblings all had the chance to have a cat or other various animals to care for and love. Hope had nursed Faith's 15-year-old cat as it died last summer. Someone (there is a disagreement about whom now) said Hope should get to have a new, live kitty since all she has ever had is old broken down ones. So we started keeping our eyes open for a little cat. To make a long story shorter, we acquired "Andy," (his name at the shelter), a beautiful, all-black, sleek, green-eyed, skittish, but very lovable cat about 8 months old. He was Hope's pride and joy and best friend, sleeping close to her and sitting in her lap when she did school work or played on the computer. He went through several name changes (Toby, Newman, Romeo, and Puma, to list a few); he also had 4 vet visits in 4 months. After his second ailment (undiagnosed fever), the vet warned me he could have FIPV, but we were all encouraged when he recovered and was a normal, lively kitten for 4 weeks. Then began his long, slow, agonizing demise. He started stumbling and not making it up to the window sills like he had been. Then he lost control of his back legs, but was still managing to get around and into his litter box. However, he stopped eating. He became even more loving, climbing up into our laps, sitting nearby and looking up at us, like, please pick me up, purring as we held him close. Unforturnately, the dragging of his back end got worse each day, but he was still lively and responsive in between long periods of sleep. Family members began chanting, "Put him down; stop this agony." At that point I began to soul-search; was I considering this because WE were in agony WATCHING him, or because HE was suffering? At first, I believe it was because WE were the sufferers; he seemed ok as long as we helped him. And of course, Hope was in excruciating pain, crying herself to sleep every night, cuddling him, asking WHY? Why do I get all the broken cats? I don't want him to die....I took the "David" approach at first in my prayers: when David knew his son was to die, he still fasted and prayed and asked for healing, but when the son died, he got up and went on with life. ( I admit I did not fast, but I did some heartwrenching pleas for healing if it was God's will!) Then yesterday it became very clear to me the cat was suffering; he wasn't cleaning himself, he lost control of his toiletry, and he was so miserable (and yet at rare times, perky and attentive, and so darn loving!!!); Hope was coming to grips with reality, too, and after a last night with him cuddled close (with no accidents and no movement), we re-assessed and watched the poor thing this morning and knew it was time. Tim thinks because he was young, his will to live went beyond what was best for him. I won't agonize you with details of what his suffering was, but I took him to the vet. Sarah was so sweet and offered to go with me; good thing, because I was in no shape to drive. I cried in the office, cried in the car on the way home, cried while Hope and I dug the hole in which he now peacefully rests. I do not understand these things, but I know God does all things well, and I also know with all the death Hope already has faced, she will be able to comfort others. And though we are hurt now, we can now go on without this hanging over us. (I was not sleeping well and sick to my stomach over this!) Anyway, please pray for Hope as she adjusts to her loss. I am very proud of her; she has acted in such a mature and kind way. I know God is pleased with His child.

SPRING FEVER!

2009-04-21T07:57:00.001-07:00

America the Brave? (I'll probably be sorry I blogged this...)

2009-04-09T17:49:00.000-07:00

U.S. warship watches Somali pirates as standoff continues

Does this remind anyone else of anything? It reminds me of the Jimmy Carter years, when U.S. hostages were held for 444 days because of a do-nothing, appeasing president, liberal-led administration. It (and the ridiculous and humiliating comments and actions of the last week(s))reminds me of "peace in our day" Neville during WWII and all the crazy appeasement people; it reminds me of the first World Trade bombings that were virtually ignored by a concilatory administration. It reminds me of a thousand other examples of when stupid people try to negotiate with bullies and evil dictators. Have we learned nothing from history? This does not work! Trying to cowtow to other countries and earn respect this way is only making us one, laughingstocks in the world, and two, and more terrifying, sitting ducks for more acts of terrorism against our country. Our leaders right now are so spineless and afraid of "offending" anyone. They call on the "global community" to come up with "solutions;" have you heard or seen any or anyone coming alongside us or even offering advice? North Korea shoots a missile, a U.S. destroyer stands by a tiny boat with hands tied (like the troops in the Viet Nam war, another reminder of the past), not able to do its job. Congress people are entertained and scammed by and give homage to a dictator in Cuba (did they talk to any of the people about the REAL circumstances?) Obama bows to a Muslim king. We are bowing to everybody. It is time to stand up! Not slink around. We are the country that always saves everyone else, no matter how much they badmouth us. People don't always agree with us, but they know we are strong and what we stand for (or did). We have big hearts and giving souls, but we are being robbed right here in our own nation as our leaders steal our hard-earned money and give it to those who have acted irresponsibly. (Why have we saved all these years?) They are robbing us of our incentive to work hard (why bother? of course, as Christians, we must,but who feels like it?). We can't help others if they take it all away. Can you imagine how inefficient the medical system is going to be...how scary it will be to be old and told "you're old so we're not going to pay." Just look at the other socialist countries, today and in the past. It does not work!! It never will. Just like the subject I started with, you can't appease bullies; it only empowers them and weakens us. I could go on and on and on....I realize God is in control, but we need to pray and see if there is anything else He would call us to do. We're only a couple hundred years old; lots of nations thousands of years old have fallen and are no more...Lord, have mercy on us all.

Spring is in the air!

2009-04-08T13:23:00.000-07:00

I love spring! How my mood improves with all the extra sun, and birds singing and chirping, little animals running around the yard, being outside more, trees budding and flowers blossoming! Thank You, God, for the Hope that does not disappoint and the pictures of rebirth You provide in Your creation! Amazing! What was once dead is now alive!!

(and for all my friends out there, be watching over those hydrangeas, please! we still have need of them on July 11)

HAPPY 13TH BIRTHDAY, HOPE!

2009-03-24T20:53:00.001-07:00

HAPPY 13TH BIRTHDAY, HOPE!

2009-03-24T20:31:00.000-07:00

I tried to post this really cute card for you, Hope (this is not it), but after numerous tries and being told at least 5 times that it was a success, nothing is here! So please know I love you and thank God for you and may this year be one of your very best as you seek God and His will for your life and have fun! Love you lots and lots, MOM

I Can't Believe I am Blogging About This

2009-03-18T17:43:00.000-07:00

Why does this lady's death affect me so much? I am not into stars or movies or any of that, but ever since I saw the Yahoo headline about this one, it has haunted me. I found myself praying for her, her family, thinking of them often. Absolutely crazy because I know nothing about her at all except what I have read in the last two days in very brief update articles, and usually I pay no attention to celebrity stuff. Somehow, however, her situation struck a raw chord with me. Perhaps it is her having two sons, 12 and 13. Perhaps it is because in the crazy Hollywood scene, she has remained with her husband for 15 years. Perhaps it is because here was someone who had everything, world-wise, and yet again, we see life is a vapor, and so much more than what we see and do here. A reminder of our mortality and that we are not promised tomorrow. ( I have already been given 4 more years than she had!) Whatever the reason, I just felt so moved that I wanted to do this post. Urgent almost. So here it is. I just feel so sorry for all of them, and I am praying for them. May God have mercy on us all and show Himself very real to her surviving family. (I picked this picture because of the loving look she has for her husband; there was a better one from some awards thing; she was gazing up at him with such love and admiration, but I couldn't find it...anyway...)

Time to Update

2009-02-15T18:44:00.000-08:00

I don't think anybody ever comes here, but I thought I would blog about a few things on my mind.

1. Stimulus Bill--Hopefully, the only negative, the rest, I plan, to be positive and thankful. But let's get this one out of the way--the only thing this bill stimulates is my anger. And at times, fear. But then I remember God is in control. However, let's get real. This is an atrocious bill. Full of pork and socialism, sneaky ways to get things, passed without anyone ever even seeing it. Tim informs me our family will get a whole $7 a week more. Wow. And ha, ha, it's our money, anyway; we're paying ourselves. Bill T. says if you divided the money up for all the people in the U.S., it comes out to $283,000 a person or something near that; where is that? Why don't they just give us that directly? We could do a whole lot of stimulating the economy with that money....oh well. I do wonder at times if we are going to turn out like so many other nations that went socialistic and if America as we have always known it or thought of it as, will cease to exist. We think we are so great, but we are only 200-some years old. Time for some humility and repentance, I think. God help us!

2. Family and friends--I have the best. I just cannot get over the people God has given me. It is humbling and overwhelming and awesome. My husband, my 5 children, my son-in-law-to-be, they are just so unbelievably wonderful. My friends, my church family, my aunt, uncle, brother and family, just incredible gifts. The way they all love me no matter what, the way they love each other and have fun together; the support and encouragement to live for God and get up when we fall, the prayers, the laughter; relationships are what life is about. I am so blessed.

3. Our new cat. His name keeps changing, but right now he is Newman. He is all black with yellowish eyes, and though he is skittish (but getting much better), he is so loving and sweet. I am not an animal person, but this kitty is a cutie. He came to us with a messy ailment common to catteries (places where many, many cats live together), and I nursed him and was diligent about washing hands and doornobs and catbox and so on for a couple weeks and shoved pills down his throat 2x a day, and kept watching, feeling like he would never be better and we would pray for him and us (that we would not contact this dreadful thing!)--and now he is completely well, completely normal, and I am amazed. Thank God for caring about the birds that fall and everything else and giving us pets to love and care for and teach responsibility and give joy (He is Hope's cat). Just simple pleasures God gives us to enjoy here.

4. Simple joys, like snow and spring. A picture of the one snow we have had this year. And then we have spring, 60's and 70's, and I enjoy that, too. If it isn't going to snow, let's get on with spring! But help me learn to be content whatever state I am in! I know that is the main thing, and I am not here for me, but for God, the all-glorious one. But still, He does give us such beautiful parts of creation to enjoy, and I want to be thankful for the feasts for the eyes! Spring picture is at the top, winter below.

5. Health--eyes and ears that work, limbs that function; I can get out and walk and run and feel and smell the fresh air and wake up alive and able to take care of my family. What blessings abound. I am just scratching the surface, but maybe there will be more later. Take care and hope you can find things to be thankful for, too!

25 YEARS!

2008-12-17T07:40:00.000-08:00

25 YEARS!

Today is our 25th wedding anniversary! I love my husband more now than I did; it is so wonderful how God grows us along the way. I am so blessed to have the best husband (sorry, ladies! but I guess we could say best for me, since he was created just for me. I used to worry that if any other ladies found out how wonderful he is, they would try and steal him from me! )

Anyway, I am so thankful God gave me Tim, my best friend, soul-mate, lover, Godly man, husband, and father--perfect for me! And he loves me, no matter what (and there have been some big what's), and I can tell him anything and talk to him in a way I can share with no one else; what a gift to have a companion to be one with in spirit, a built-in friend forever. I thank God again and again and again, and I hope to have at least another 40 years with him! (by the way, he gave me 2 dozen red roses and an absolutely gorgeous card! I cried.) I love Tim!

Happy THANKS-giving!

2008-11-26T14:30:00.000-08:00

Tagged--you asked for it--forgive me, Luke!

2008-11-26T14:19:00.000-08:00

Okay, I was tagged by Auntie Suzanne and I followed the directions, opened the picture folders (of which I have taken none!) and what I found out is it depends on how the files open, because the first time I searched I got Arnold but when I went to upload, Luke was the fourth file, fourth picture...hmmmm perhaps there is a connection....anyway, that was fun. Now let's see Kate Huntington, Annie, Sarah, and Anna--if they will. Thanks, Marianna, for adding fun to our lives! I cannot believe how young my son looks in this picture. It's kind of cool how he randomly is paired with the terminator :>) (I know, this is the wrong movie!)

Happy Birthday, TIm!

2008-11-20T10:05:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY DEAR SWEET HUSBAND OF ALMOST 25 YEARS!

YOU ARE GOD'S GREATEST GIFT

(HERE ON EARTH)

TO ME!

LOVE. SUE

HAPPY 21ST BIRTHDAY, SARAH!

2008-11-18T21:02:00.000-08:00

Happy, happy birthday, dear daughter! I wish I could create something lovely here to fully represent the wonder and creativity of you, and that would tell you just how much we love and cherish you! However, I can only cry out in a loud voice, Happy, happy birthday! We love you and pray the Lord gives you many, many more years. May this year be one of the best. We are so thankful God gave you to us; it's not just a line: you have blessed our lives beyond measure!

He gives a greater grace

2008-11-17T07:02:00.000-08:00

A friend sent me this hymn and Scriptures. I just had to share them with anyone that happens to be reading my blog. I was so blessed by these words; God is so faithful and gives us what we need when we need it!

He gives a greater grace…James 4:

Giveth More GraceWords by Annie J. Flint

He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.

Fear not that thy need shall exceed His provision,
Our God ever yearns His resources to share;
Lean hard on the arm everlasting, availing;
The Father both thee and thy load will upbear.

His love has no limits,
His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.

He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power. Isaiah 40:29

The writer commented that in seeing this verse on wall hanging, he was struck with the verb “IS.”
And He has said to me, "My grace IS sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness."
II Cor. 12:9
God’s grace IS sufficient. Not will be, not can be, not if. It IS.

Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16

Two posts in one day!

2008-10-31T09:42:00.000-07:00

We had the privilege of watching Mason yesterday.

We all think he is the cutest little baby ever.

Where have I been?

2008-10-31T06:50:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I haven't been updating, but I don't think very many come here anyway; I do check your blogs regularly to keep up with what's going on, though, even though I don't always comment or post! Here is a list of things to do/have been doing:

homeschooling

spending more consistent time in God's Word and prayer (Praise be to God! It is not me, but He who is giving me the desire and strength; I am a rebellious, lazy worm...)

taking care of the fam (cook, clean, wash, clean up, shop, try to be there to listen, do it all again--and again; and I love it)

shuttling people around

some ESL subbing (2X)

helping plan reformation lessons and party for the kiddies

hosting dear friends for 10 days in our home

loving my kids

trying to get to the gym at least 3x a week (ha)

writing a couple notes

keeping the fire(s) (literally) burning

Somehow this doesn't seem all that much, but most nights I fall into bed (usually after midnight) and feel like WHEW!

Isn't fall beautiful? I hope you are all enjoying it. Praise God for His blessings and His sovereignty! May I fall on my knees and cry, "Holy, holy, holy! Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive blessings and honor and power and praise!"

On Banks and Bailouts

2008-09-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

Just want to blow off a little steam. Why is it that those of us who have lived within our means and saved and not gone into debt, must now pay for everyone else who recklessly borrowed money and knew they couldn't pay it back? What happened to personal responsibility and paying the consequences for our actions? What a joke. And now it is all blamed on greed and republicans so that the other side can continue to march our system into a socialistic one. It is Congress' fault for forcing banks to lend money to those they knew would default. And I just heard that community foundations such as ACORN (for which BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA was a community organizer) put pressure on those banks to make the loans, staging demonstrations in the lobbies and tying up their lines by cashing dollars and pennies and so on; then these same congressmen used Fanny and Freddie to make money for themselves. But none of those facts will ever be reported in the news. UGH! I hope and pray the debates will bring some of this out, that the truth will reach the American people. Can't we see where all this leads? Wait till the taxes rise and the health care system becomes socialized, too. We are heading down the wrong path. (Yeah, I know spiritually we are and have been for a long time heading the wrong way and our nation doesn't deserve mercy, but I still beg God for it) (I also know and am trying to remind myself that GOD is sovereign; He raises up and tears down and has a plan...) I'm just talking about governmental stuff right now. But then it's all tied together. I heard some quote today, "Be wary of anyone who says 'Let me spend your money and I will save you.'" Wow, is that true! I know only God saves, but I pray He moves on McCain's heart to stand up for what's right and not to buckle to the godless ideas of the left. God, have mercy on us all.
(I realize this was not well thought out or expressed; I just needed an outlet!)

Sarah Palin for VP

2008-08-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

May God bless John McCain's choice of Sarah Palin as his vice presidential running mate! Sarah Palin seems to have a lot to be happy about, some of which are she has executive experience as governor, she's pro-life, she has five children :>) , she's conservative, she speaks rather than shrieks, and her nickname is apparently "Barracuda," which indicates a certain toughness that she will need to withstand the liberal media/liberal Democratic onslaught. I pray that God will have mercy on us as a nation; we certainly don't deserve a good president, but I still want one and plead for one! Please pray with me that God will be glorified in us, our church(es), our country, and the world!

ENGAGING

2008-06-29T07:10:00.000-07:00

Faith and Jared

Congratulations!

We love you both

Congratulations!

2008-05-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

I would like it if I were a photographer like the rest of you because I always have to borrow whatever pics are around, and this one is a year old! But I have to post something when such a big occasion arises, so here it is-- Congratulations to our lovely daughter, Faith, who graduates from University of Maryland, College Park, tonight and tomorrow, with a degree in mechanical engineering (and physics from SU)!!! Way to go, Faith! You have worked so hard and achieved so much. We wish we could express adequately our fierce and everlasting love and devotion to you! You are a gift from God, and we thank Him for you every day! Looking forward to celebrating with you tomorrow. Love, Mom and Dad (hopefully we will have some pics from tomorrow to post)

Milestones

2008-04-30T16:57:00.000-07:00

So today we reached another milestone in our home; we now have 4 children with drivers' licenses! I've never posted about this event before (probably because I didn't have a blog with the last one), but I got thinking about it, and it is just one of those amazing experiences as a parent. Sending them out on the road by themselves is heart-rending. I wonder if it is something like the times people send their little ones off to school for the first time; however, not ever having had to face that one (until they were 18 or so!), I don't know for sure. I know one of the main features of parenting is growing them up to help them leave, but wow, it's a hard one. I have been so utterly privileged to have our five children around more than most kids are, and it is wonderful to see them maturing into these beautiful, thinking, communicating, independent beings, so full of life and adventure. What exciting futures lie before them. (This isn't quite what was in my mind; music is playing in the background (Billy Joel classics), (more memories), and I have never been able to concentrate on more than one thing at once when studying or writing or talking...) anyway, these times of letting them go really drive me (no pun intended) to fervent and continual prayer. All good. Being reminded how completely out of control I really am and of how our Heavenly Father cares so much more than I can comprehend is a good thing! Anyway, I am deliriously proud (I hope in a good way) of all my children, but today, it's Luke's turn to be congratulated. Good work, son! (This picture was a year ago at the Grand Canyon--it's amazing how much older he looks today!)

My Best Friend

2008-04-28T16:40:00.000-07:00

photo by anna.

I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I know about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. -Philemon 1:4-5

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! --Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

EXPELLED

2008-04-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

Went to see this movie today. Great! Go see it!

After the rain...

2008-04-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

i am not ever sure exactly what to say after a post like the last one ( somewhat embarrassed), a kind of Psalm 77 day. Anyway, just want to speak about the faithfulness of the LORD (Psalms 86:7, 86:15, 119:15, 120:1, and too many others to name...) The other day He sent me friends to pray with (separately), His very Word spoken to me, a good human book a dear friend gave me and i have been taking my time through (Running Scared: Fear, Worry, and the God of Rest by Edward T. Welch), an ever-faithful and loving husband and family, hope, love for the unlovely, and much, much more. It amazes me once again His parental, unconditional love. He does not tower over me shaking his finger and pummeling me into the ground with His extreme (and justified) displeasure; He beckons me with open arms to come to Him for kindness, mercy, love, and forgiveness, peace, and hope. Wow. To His Name be glory and honor and power forever and ever.

Reconciliation

2008-04-08T05:33:00.000-07:00

The struggle: i want to BE "somebody" but God wants me to die to self; i want to please Him (some times anyway), but then i act like the classic wretch-idiot-sinner. i know the Romans passage (chapter 7); i want to be noticed and affirmed, but this is all so me-centered instead of Christ-centered...wretched woman that i am! the answer is clearly Jesus, and a focus on Him, but what a struggle. May the blessed Lord above break through my stony, rebellious heart.

And Hope Does Not Disappoint...

2008-03-24T11:58:00.001-07:00

HAPPY 12TH BIRTHDAY, HOPE!

March 25, 2008--Hope turns 12. We love you, Hope. You are growing into a beautiful young lady. We pray God draws you ever closer to Him, and that you will always want to follow His plan for your life. You are a special joy in our lives, always ready with a smile or a gift you bought or made. Thanks for making me laugh when I am sad. Thanks for being willing to let me read to you still sometimes. Sorry I treat you younger than you are and forget how insightful you can be about people and life; I am afraid that is a symptom of being the youngest child. Thanks for all the cooking help. Thanks for never giving up (although sometimes I do not appreciate that trait). I think God will use your perseverance and outgoing, friendly nature for wonderful things in your future. We pray this new year will be the best yet for you! Happy birthday, and we love you!

Sweet Husband Mine

2008-03-05T23:08:00.000-08:00

Well, one of the ironies of life today. Yesterday I was grumping that I could not find any TripleA batteries because the kids always use them all. I like to listen to the wonderful MP3 they gave me last year when I drag myself to the Y to sweat, but it is very annoying when it powers down in the middle of the workout. So Tim comes home at 9:45 tonight , all excited and happy, and puts a present ( a pack of batteries) under my pillow. Then he goes into the kitchen and what does he see on the counter? A new pack of Triple A's that his wife bought today...(i felt so bad!) but how sweet and thoughtful it was of him to even think to buy a pack for me! I hope he isn't too disappointed! I love the fact he thought of me!

Just Thinking About Life

2008-02-28T12:48:00.001-08:00

We all learn this lesson at one time or another in life; have you?

2008-02-13T14:56:00.000-08:00

Please pray for Jared, Matt, and others involved in the Community Players' performance of Charley's Aunt which starts this weekend and goes through next weekend. Thank you!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2008-01-31T17:48:00.000-08:00

HAPPY

BIRTHDAY!

FREE AT LAST!

2008-01-29T09:58:00.000-08:00

Well, the cats are home after 6-months quarrantine at the humane society. I don't think the pictures show it accurately, but Marble (the calico) is HUGE! She was always big, but all the loose flabby skin that used to hang down and jiggle from side to side when she walked is now FULL. She looks and feels like a basketball covered with fur. She and Tiger have existed for the last 6 months in a cage and so they have not had any exercise. Marble came out of the carrier (thanks, Suzanne, for lending them to us!) and went right to Faith's room! I thought that was neat. Tiger wandered around and around, sniffing things. When Luke let her out in his room, she climbed up the ladder to the house. Both seem bewildered some, but they should adjust. There are more pictures, but they are not uploading right now and soon I have to leave for an eye app't. (For those who don't know the story, try to make long short: Tiger got bat. Bats are most rabid animal. Health dept. say have to put them down because I let their shots lapse. Tim getting operation in a few days before this. Take to humane society to put down. They offer to quarrantine them for us--so they did; they were so nice, and the cats got a respite. Thanks be to God!) The snow scene is from last week; I love snow!

2008-01-26T15:47:00.000-08:00

A Few of my Favorite Things--pictures NOT in order!

2008-01-07T05:56:00.000-08:00

FAMILY TOGETHER (small because certain family members do not appreciate pictures being shown of themselves). AWAY ALONE WITH MY HUBBY (that is the hotel; what was missing was the frozen huge fountain in the front left, quite amazing, from 19 degrees arrival to 62 degrees departure 3 days later); the SERENDIPITOUS, PROVIDENTIAL, LOVING WAYS GOD ARRANGES OUR VACATIONS; KUBA KUBA RESTAURANT IN RICHMOND ACTUALLY OPEN! TRES LECHES CAKE. FINDING A KRISPY KREME DONUT RESTAURANT STILL OPEN; KRISPY KREME DONUTS HOT OFF THE LINE BROUGHT HOME TO FAMILY. FAMILY, HOME. COMPLETE.

24 YEARS!

2007-12-16T13:03:00.000-08:00

Monday, December 17, 2007--Happy 24th Anniversary, Tim! I love you.

2007-12-05T12:11:00.000-08:00

I love Tim!

Happy Day After!

2007-11-23T14:27:00.001-08:00

Right now we are in Connecticut at my nephew Paul and his lovely wife Erika's home being treated like royalty. It is the first time in about 20 years that I haven't hosted Thanksgiving, and although there are millions of good memories of great fellowship and fun on all of those, I am thoroughly enjoying being with family and not being the hostess! Right now cousin Peter (Paul's younger brother), Sarah, Anna, Luke, Hope, and Erika are making gingerbread houses downstairs in the kitchen; we went for a walk yesterday and earlier today (everyone here--my brother and his wife, Tim, and I, and the already forementioned), we've played games, eaten and eaten of course, talked, laughed, and just had a wonderful family time. And this weather change, from 70 to 30 is perfect for the season--the Christmas music playing in the background, fire in the fireplace, wow, this is almost like the Christmas card seasons, or movies or books I dream about like family gatherings ought to be. The Lord is truly good and gracious!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2007-11-22T03:51:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKS-GIVING!!!!!

Another birthday!

2007-11-20T06:40:00.000-08:00

Not that my husband ever reads my blogs, but just in case, I have to say "Happy Birthday" to him and acknowledge that he is the being I am closer to than anyone on this earth and I love him and thank God for him and am blessed above all women to have had almost 24 years married to him (how is this for a run-on sentence?) sharing, caring, crying (me, more than ever in my life this summer/fall), laughing, praying, eating, walking, loving...life. I love you, Tim, best husband to me and father to our children! Happy Birthday!

Well, I 've tried to upload a picture 5x and it keeps telling me "we're sorry we cannot complete your request, sorry for the inconvenience" so you all will just have to recall what he looks like in your minds--sorry for the inconvenience!

HAPPY 20TH BIRTHDAY!

2007-11-19T06:58:00.000-08:00

Photo by Anna

HAPPY 20TH BIRTHDAY SARAH!!!!! by Hope

Guess who's 20 today? Happy Birthday, Sarah! November 19, 2007! Have a great day and I love you very very much! --Mom

Amazing Grace

2007-11-13T12:43:00.000-08:00

Guess what movie came out today? Woo Hoo! If you haven't seen it, you should!

Billy Goat Trail

2007-10-29T10:28:00.000-07:00

Saturday we visited Faith. After a false start in D.C. (Tim couldn't find parking and let us out and he just rode around and then picked us (Faith, Jared, Hope, and me) up--poor Tim), we went to Great Falls Park to hike. Faith took us on a favorite hike of hers that she described as flat and smooth. Well, it was not exactly as she remembered, but it was mostly fun (I have some trouble with heights, but the views were gorgeous!) and a great time. What a beautiful day that was not predicted! I loved the exercise and being outside with loved ones, and I longed to be camping. However, in lieu of a campfire, we had superb chili and cornbread and good fellowship at Mary and Joe's (Howards'), and all in all, one of the most special days I have had lately! Thanks, everyone, and thanks to our gracious God for His beautiful creation(s).

HELLO AGAIN, HOW ARE YOU?

2007-10-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

I don't think this will be long; I just wanted to say hi. I love these beautiful summer-fall days ( I suppose we are going to go from HOT to COLD with little in between, but who can argue with still wearing short sleeves and shorts and open windows and no winter jackets at a soccer game and walking on the boardwalk on Oct.20 with no sweatshirt?) I just want to say how much I love all of you and thank God for you. I covet your prayers, though, dear ones, as I am struggling more than I ever thought I would; I never used to cry but lately the floodgates just keep opening and I feel sometimes like I am losing my mind....thank God He is in control and able to do much more than we ask or imagine. May He soon restore the joy of my salvation and may I honor Him somehow in the walk through the valley.

Bittersweet

2007-09-09T18:57:00.000-07:00

September 7, 2007

Mama's Homecoming

Love everlasting

joy evermore

no more pain

no more tears

no more suffering

reuniting

Peace

(But I keep crying--

bittersweet

parting

rejoicing in tears

this, too, shall pass)

Journey with My "Mama"

2007-09-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

I don't even know if I can do this entry or even if I should, but I figure I can try it, and if I think better of it or God moves me not to post it, I can just delete it...but here goes:

As my mother lies dying, ( and everybody dies, and everybody suffers something in life, so I do not want this to be a "feel sorry for Sue" blog by any means!), I have much time to ponder and think and remember and pray and cry. I have literally cried more this summer than in my whole life combined; I am not a cry-er by nature; I always had to watch a sad movie or something to get to cry--when things were very sad in real life, I was often numb. Not so this summer. Anyway, God has been working in me through this grueling time since June 10th. My heart had actually become somewhat hardened toward my mom who has lived with us for almost 5 years and I had forgotten who she really was. However, from the first of her hospitalization, all that hardened, selfish wall came crashing down; I felt so tender toward her, like a proverbial mother taking care of her darling little one. I found myself murmuring "Mama," which I never in my memory remember calling her, but it was right and appropriate. I have seen her dignity stripped from her as she was tossed around, naked, like an Auschwich prisoner, crying out for someone to help her, someone to stop hurting her. I have looked into her bewildered, childlike, trusting, loving eyes. I have laughed at her wit when it would shine through, been proud to have her be so kind and gracious to those who cleaned her up or gave her water. I have held her hand, repeatedly told her how much I love her and Tim loves her, and the grandchildren love her and my brother loves her, and her sisters love her, and so on and on. I have fed her and I have even changed her; I have dressed her wound; I have helped her to the bedside commode in the middle of the night; I have reassured her fears after what seemed a bad dream. I never in a million years thought I would be able to do some of the things I have done, but it is true that with God all things are possible. I have prayed with her, pleaded with God for her, and read His Word to her. I remember Esther saying what a privilege it was to serve her mother as she deteriorated and feeling so bad that I did not feel that way, and then all of a sudden, it dawned on me what a miracle God has done--I honestly can say this HAS been a privilege. What more is there in life much better than giving to another human being, comforting them, connecting with them, thanking them. Wow. God did this wonderful thing for me. Not that I wanted my mother to suffer so that He could do this, but somehow in His wise plan of all eternity, it works this way. I want so badly for my mother's suffering to be over, but our times are in His hands. I thank God for the peaceful place He has allowed my mother to be in right now (Coastal Hospice on the Lake--what a wonderful place). I feel so awed that He allowed my mother to go there.
And I am thankful for my mama: she is a great mother who would do anything for her kids, she is a highly intelligent woman who painted and read and kept all the finances minutely and beat us all at vocabulary games. She has wit and grace and is a real lady. She is kind and appreciative of whatever someone does for her. She is quiet and listens. She rarely complained although she lived a life of physical pain. She loved reading to me and to my kids, and we all love reading now ourselves. She is a very strong lady, too. She lived by herself for almost ten years after my dad died. She never wanted to be a burden, and she was not one. She gave me life, she cherished me, she worked for me, she made me clothes, she sat up with me when I was very sick, she changed me and cleaned me, she comforted me when I had bad dreams or a broken heart; she taught me about God and took me to Sunday School and VBS; she encouraged me through school and college and having my own kids; she would have given her life for me if it was required and in some ways she did give her life for me; she told me again and again that I was a "wonderful daughter." But I really am not, although I am glad she thought so; I have tried to do the right things; I'm just so sorry I failed so often and was so selfish at times.
Mama, I am so so sorry the end of your race has been so hard, but you ran a great one, and I thank God you are my dear mother, and I pray for the time you will have no more pain, tears and suffering, but only rejoicing evermore. I love you.

2007-08-31T09:21:00.000-07:00

I really really love Bebo Norman's music--it is vulnerable, searching, praising, pointing to God, even questioning at times, but it really ministers to me and points me back to where my heart and eyes need to be; here is one of his newer songs:

Into the Day

Written by Bebo Norman and Jason Ingram

You could turn a hundred years and never empty all your fears
They're pouring out like broken words and broken bones
They could fill a thousand pages,
be the cry for all the ages
And the song for every soul who stands alone
The ache of life is more than you are able

Hold on love, don't give up
Don't close your eyes
The light is breaking through the night
Step out into the day, all the clouds and all the rain are gone
It's over now
Step out into the sun,
for you have only begun to know
What it's all about

As the hungering dark gives way to the dawn, my love
It's over now

Time will let the story told
grow and grow 'til it unfolds
In a way that even you cannot ignore
You can say the seasons change but never if you just remain
In a place where the freeze is at your door
What you don't know is the signs are right for the turning tide

Hold on, hold on
It won't be long
So hold on

He often refers to beloved or loved or love, and it sounds like God talking to me. Anyway I heard it today again and thought I would share it with you.

REJOICE!

2007-08-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say that today is a very special day for me. I get to go to my very best friend in the whole world (besides my hubby)'s beautiful home on the Nanticoke River and just relax, laugh, eat, share, and generally have a wonderful-good time together. On top of that my entire family (kids and hubby) will be there, too, and oh, I wish I could explain how much this all means to me! I don't know the last time I have had such a great time to look forward to and experience. Thank you, Lord, for this opportunity, and thank you, dearest friends, for having us join you!

Do you know what I mean?

2007-06-27T07:24:00.000-07:00

Work --by Jars of Clay

Just in case, I will leave my things packed
So I can run away
I cannot trust these voices
I don't have a line of prospects that can give some kind of peace
There is nothing left to cling to that can bring me sweet release

I have no fear of drowning
It's the breathing that's taking all this work
Do you know what I mean when I say, "I don't want to be alone"?
What I mean when I say, "I don't want to be alone"

Empty spaces with shadows hit by streetlights
Warnings signs and weight of tired conversations
In the absence of a shoulder, in the abscess of a thief
On the brink of this destruction, on the eve of bittersweet
Now all the demons look like prophets and I'm living out
Every word they speak, every word they speak

Do you know what I mean when I say, "I don't want to be alone"?
What I mean when I say, "I don't want to be alone"
What I mean when I say, "I don't want to be alone"
Do you know what I mean when I say, "I don't want to be alone"?
What I mean when I say, "I don't want to be alone"
What I mean when I say, "I don't want to be alone"
Alone, alone, I don't want to be alone

I have no fear of drowning
It's the breathing that's taking all this work

Words and music by Dan Haseltine, Charlie Lowell, Stephen Mason, Matt Odmark© 2006 Bridge Building Music, Inc.

Happy Birthday, Faith!

2007-06-20T16:00:00.001-07:00

HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY, FAITH !!
June 21, 2007

(PHOTO CREDIT TO anna grace--SORRY, BUT YOU WEREN'T HERE TO ASK, AND i JUST HAD TO POST A BIRTHDAY ANNOUNCEMENT ON SUCH A SPECIAL AND IMPORTANT OCCASION! PLEASE FORGIVE ME)

Faith, you are so beautiful--inside and out. I cannot believe our "baby" is 21! The light of the Lord Jesus is so evident in you; thank you for letting your light shine. We love you dearly and are so thankful for you! May your golden birthday be a blessing to you and may each new day bring you closer to the Creator of us all. Our hearts are full of love for you, dear daughter!

One more day!

2007-06-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

SARAH, COME HOME!!!!!

2007-06-05T12:10:00.000-07:00

Imagine this sweet MP3 player in hot pink and you can imagine my new Mother's Day present from my kids--quite the surprise, and a great one at that! They said I could use it at the gym, and it is wonderful! And not just at the gym. I LOVE IT!! The music sounds more intimate or something; I can really listen to the words. Music ministers to my very soul, one way or another. Secular music makes me feel edgy and rebellious, like driving too fast, telling people EXACTLY what I think, going to a bar, wanting to be part of the wordly popular groups....Christian music melts my heart, convicts me, uplifts me, points me to God, lightens my mood, expresses the cry of my soul to God, teaches me Scripture and Biblical truths, soothes my pain and sorrow, and many many more good things! Thank you so much for your gift to me, children! I love it, and I love you way, way more--you (and Dad) are the lights of my life!

Here is a song I like from the Jars of Clay Good Monsters CD (there are so many good songs on that CD! carry me, it don't matter (where you bury me), There is a River, etc.):

Under the Bridge
I do not love you the way I did when we met

There are secrets and arguments that I haven't finished yet

It's only that grace has outlived our regrets

We're still here

Maybe we can stay

'Til the last drop of water flows under the bridge

We can stay'Til the last drop of water flows under the bridge

There are times meant for breaking

And words to ignore

And a bent to our souls

When our skin is at war

If leaving were freedom

Well, we'd both walk right out of that door

Maybe we can stay'Til the last drop of water flows under the bridgeWe can stay'Til the last drop of water flows

And the years roll by

And you hold my hand

While the shadows stretch over the land

Crumble and fall in my arms

And we'll struggle to hold on

Waters, they rise

And they carry our hopes and our dreams away

Baby, we can stay, stay

And the years roll by

And you hold my hand

And the shadows stretch over the land

Baby, we can stay'Til the last drop of water flows under the bridgeWe can stay'Til the last drop of water flows under the bridgeWe can stay'Til the last drop of water flows under the bridge

Oh, LORD, I call to you

2007-05-17T01:14:00.000-07:00

for my sweet faith and any other hurting souls--
Psalm 141
O LORD, I call to you; come quickly to me.
Hear my voice when I call to you.
May my prayer be set before you like incense;
may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.
Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips.
Let not my heart be drawn to what is evil, to take part in wicked deeds with men who are evildoers; let me not eat of their delicacies.
But my eyes are fixed on you, O Sovereign LORD; in you I take refuge—do not give me over to death.
Keep me from the snares they have laid for me, from the traps set by evildoers.
Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by in safety.

Psalm 142
I cry aloud to the LORD; I lift up my voice to the LORD for mercy.
I pour out my complaint before him; before him I tell my trouble.
When my spirit grows faint within me, it is you who know my way. In the path where I walk men have hidden a snare for me.
Look to my right and see; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life.
I cry to you, O LORD; I say, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living."
Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me.
Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.

When all around is sinking sand, on Christ the solid rock we stand...His oath, His covenant, His blood, support me in the whelming flood....

HAPPY GRADUATION, SARAH!!!

2007-05-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Sarah Danielle Harr, graduating with an Associate's Degree in Accounting this evening! We love you and are so proud of you!

Life hurts, but God is good

2007-05-14T15:21:00.000-07:00

I don't understand why life hurts so much sometimes. God, help me to understand how to trust you more. Help me claim your promises, you are the great comforter and God of ALL compassion....when all around is sinking sand, on Christ the solid rock may I stand. GOD HELP US ALL!!!!

On Christ the Solid Rock

2007-05-13T12:38:00.000-07:00

"On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand, ALL other ground is sinking sand. "

My hope is built on nothing less,Than Jesus' blood and righteousness.I dare not trust the sweetest frame,But wholly lean on Jesus' name.

When darkness seems to veil his face, I rest on his unchanging grace.

In every high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil. His oath, his covenant, and blood, Support me in the ‘whelming flood.

When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.
When the last trumpets voice shall sound,O then I may in him be found,
Clothed in his righteousness alone,Faultless to stand before his throne.

AMEN.

New Life Possibilities

2007-04-28T17:04:00.000-07:00

I have long wanted to update but I just never seem to have the time, or I have started and can't get the images to work or whatever or someone else comes along and REALLY needs to use the computer....anyway, a short update and then I must go. Today driving to the store I observed once again the miracle of spring, how the trees and ground and plants go from dark and dead looking, stark, to these incredibly gorgeous beautiful colorful bright images that dazzle the eye. I couldn't help but think about the miracle of new birth that God gives us! We are dead, unable to do anything, and He makes us alive and full of possibility. Seeds fascinate me--they look dead and dry, but put in the ground, they spring up and grow into pretty plants or nourishing fruits and vegetables, yielding even more seeds for more possibilities, more life. Amazing! And our loving heavenly Father does this for US! What a wondrous Savior is Jesus our Lord. New life, and new possibilities. What can He do with our lives? What "fruit" can we produce? After all, we have been rescued from the grave, from the miry pit, and given abundant life, full and free. Let us pray that we will be tender soil, letting the Master Gardener prune us and grow us into the best we can be--for Him! Happy Spring!

"Other seed fell into the good soil, and grew up, and produced a crop a hundred times as great." Luke 8:8

Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow

2007-03-04T14:00:00.000-08:00

How I wish I had words to express my overflowing heart! What an absolutely DIVINE weekend the LORD has given me! I have not experienced such overwhelming, sustained, joy and love in a long long time. My dear daughter already posted about it, but I have to say it, too. Tears welled in my eyes Friday afternoon when within a space of 10 minutes Faith drove in , we returned from a lovely afternoon with the Stantons at the zoo, Tim arrived from work, and Jonathan Stanton came with his uhaul on his way from Norfolk to Boston. Everyone was hugging and laughing and eating and chattering. Within minutes the kids, older and younger, were on the living room floor playing cards. I left to set up for the missions conference, my spirits soaring. It was truly a taste of heaven. We really have very little family, and we rarely see them. However, God has given us family in our church and Christian brothers and sisters. I have longed for those fun times where everyone sits around laughing and sharing, kids and adults playing, love just electrifying the air...I know those of you with extended family know what I am talking about. (Don't ever, ever take it for granted--it is the most satisfying, fulfilling feeling in the world; I truly believe Heaven will feel like it--and just think, no sin hanging on us, either--complete fellowship with one another!!) Our home has been radiating with the Spirit of God, love, fun, caring, sharing these last four days; it has been unbelieveable and so refreshing and renewing! The Stantons are some very, very, very special people! They probably could not understand fully, but I know it was they and their spirit that contributed greatly to making this weekend so wonderful. How I miss seeing them more often! I need to go but I have to write some time about the great conference, Sarah's presentation, the missionaries, the challenges, the sermons calling me to know God's love...and the rest of the times where Jared spent two days with our family (even when Faith was not paying attention to him or even here)--I don't know, it was just such a fantastic FAMILY time!! Thank you, thank you, Jesus! Thank you, Faith for coming home, too; the circle was complete this time! I love you all!

No Free Lunch

2007-02-28T14:05:00.000-08:00

I am finally able to get onto this blog thing. It made me change, and then for the last week, it would not let me comment or write a new post! Oh well. Here I am.

I would like to sin with impunity. I was reflecting on that today; it just occurred to me that that was a fact. However, the other fact is that it is impossible to sin with impunity. No matter what the sin, it affects me, those around me, or worst of all, God Himself. When I sin and no one on earth knows, my Heavenly Father does, and it hurts Him terribly. There is no getting around it. I would love to eat whatever I want, for instance. Of course, gluttony shows itself in fat gain and not being attractive to my soulmate, as well as contributing to other health issues. I would love to be lazy (and oh, am I lazy!), but the house wouldn't get cleaned, the clothes wouldn't get washed, the family wouldn't be fed, the children would not be where they were supposed to, and everyone would be unhappy, including me. I would get frustrated and snap at my kids and husband, another sin--impatience and unrighteous anger. The family would go around in smelly, dirty clothes, and that would be a poor witness to a watching world. They would probably become ill, too, from the unhealthy living conditions. We could never invite people over and use the gift of hospitality, unless we wanted to turn them off from the Way. I would love to read my fiction novels and neglect God's Word, but I will fall into sin without His Word to guide me and grow the Spirit within me and teach me how to love Him more. I could go on and on with examples, but it would become tiresome, if it hasn't already. Perhaps you have some examples of your own. The point of all this? Sin affects everyone, no matter how "small" or how "private" it seems to us. The rules God gives us are not to keep us from having "fun" but to protect us, our loved ones, the world, and our posterity (think of the sins of the fathers visited upon their children and children's children.) I wish I did not want to sin at all, whether it had consequences or not. Oh, to be pure in heart! Father, create in me a clean heart; please renew a right spirit within me.

Valentine's Day Wishes

2007-02-13T20:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! It's really not a holiday we celebrate, but for all of my dear friends who do, I send you loving greetings!

As for my husband Tim, best friend, soul mate, father of our wonderful children, spiritual head of our home, I LOVE YOU forever and ever! I thank God daily for the gift of you!

And for my dear, dear children--Faith, Sarah, Anna, Luke, and Hope--you are precious and cherished by me and your father. I take this day to remind you that I will LOVE YOU FOREVER and LIKE YOU FOR ALWAYS!

I am the most blessed of women. Thanks to all those special people God has placed in my life; you make my life worth living. Praise be to the God and Father of us all, the Father of lights, from whom all blessings come! amen

Call unto Me

2007-02-08T19:51:00.000-08:00

I received a new book today and I am excited to have time to study it--it is Charles Spurgeon's prayers! It opens with a lecture, "The golden key of prayer," based on Jeremiah 33:3, "Call unto Me, and I will answer thee and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not." I must read it in depth, but a quote I will leave with you before I put clothes in the dryer and a few other chores before bed--

God's own people need, or else they would not receive it, a command to pray.
How is this? Because, dear friends, we are very subject to fits of worldliness, if indeed that be not our usual state. (STEPPING ON ANY TOES YET? MINE HURT) We do not forget to eat: we do not forget to take the shop shutters down: we do not forget to be diligent in business: we do not forget to go to our beds to rest: but we often do forget to wrestle with God in prayer, and to spend, as we ought to spend, long periods in consecrated fellowship with our Father and our God....hours for the world! Moments for Christ! The world has the best, and our closet the parings of our time. We give our strength and freshness to the ways of mammon, and our fatigue and languor to the ways of God. Hence it is that we need to be commanded to attend to that very act which ought to be our greatest happiness, as it is our highest privilege to perform, viz, to meet with our God.

Ah! This book is going to be quite stimulating! More to come....

2007-01-29T04:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday during communion I was so moved I cried. I don't ever remember doing that. I was so overwhelmed by His great love and sacrifice for me and my unworthiness. I cried out for forgiveness for the shame I bring His name; how I don't even want to please Him sometimes. I long for a desire to do nothing but live my life for Him, not allowing the selfish ME side to rule. It seems I always revert back to the worst possible actions. May He hear my cry and answer. Praise Him for His great love, mercy, forgiveness, faithfulness.

KNOWING

2007-01-26T06:41:00.000-08:00

I knew you once. I DON'T KNOW YOU NOW (OR YOU DON'T KNOW ME). I long to know you again (or be known by you).

HIS LOVE IS BETTER THAN LIFE

2007-01-09T17:52:00.000-08:00

Listen to the Newsboys.
I love the new Newsboys album! If you like Christian contemporary worship music, they are my favorite band and this album is a great one. You can hear a few of the songs at the above site, but not the ones I like the best. Maybe if you did a search online for the titles you could, but I am not computer savvy enough to do it for you! (Faith did all this for me--thanks, Faith!)
Three terrific other songs on the album ( and there are even more) are titled "The Mission," "Something Beautiful," and "Your love is better than life," of which I am going to print some of the words below: (NOTE: the "dunno" is said with the Australian accent)

I dunno nothing that I haven't been taught. (Please excuse the double negative here!) :>)
I dunno
Why I was born into the family I've got.
I dunno
If I ever had an original thought, maybe so, maybe not, maybe later.
I dunno, I dunno
How can I end a prayer, then turn on a friend.
I dunno
Why I still criticize the things I dunno.
I dunno but I KNOW
YOUR LOVE IS BETTER THAN LIFE
Without your love, I am just a broken machine
YOUR LOVE IS BETTER THAN LIFE
Without your love, it's all a mindless routine
Without your love, I'm in another free fall ; I'VE GOT NOTHING AT ALL
YOUR LOVE IS BETTER THAN LIFE
Without your touch I'm not a full human being.
If I should ever go, where would I go?
I look to you 'cause you're the lover of my soul.
I dunno when to walk away or stand and fight
Just when I've got it wrong, I'm sure I heard you right
When my arguments are watertight
You expose every hole
I hear you call in the eye of the storm
I know you've had my back since the day I was born
Still stoking my heart, still stirring my head
You're my pillar of fire, you're the wine, you're the bread, and
YOUR LOVE IS BETTER THAN LIFE

That's about all for now. May God be the lover of YOUR soul!

And to all a good night!

2006-12-26T10:40:00.000-08:00

I really did try to update before this but last time it wouldn't let me. So I try again, and with Faith's capable help, success! Above are the plates and placemats Sarah, Anna, and Faith gave me for Christmas! Aren't they beautiful? Especially since I did not expect them at all. Adds a bit of elegance to my poor decorating skills; thank you, dear sweet daughters. I love you all!

I will have to write more another time--there just doesn't ever seem to be enough time to accomplish everything I would like to, but I have to go for now! Below are a couple more photos before I go--

Happy birthday to Luke, our 15-year-old!!(Christmas Day)

Our family on Christmas Eve--a fun party at the Townsends' ! Take care, all. Love and prayers go your way.

2006-11-24T14:41:00.000-08:00

2006-11-24T14:00:00.000-08:00

It's a Wonderful Life!

...and it's almost Christmas.

Pray

2006-10-20T05:50:00.000-07:00

BRETHREN (or SISTREN),

(PLEASE) PRAY FOR ME

Romans 15:30

My New Bedroom Design

2006-10-16T17:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of my "new" room. Anna took the pictures for me before we had all the pictures hung on the wall-- pictures really do add a lot to a room. So maybe another time you'll see those. I have always wanted dark blue walls in my room, but it took three tries to get it right (and much complaining from some of my family.) Not my husband, though; he was so supportive and told me to keep trying. And now he loves the color too.
Let me tell you a little about the room before. It had tan carpet about 35 years old. I was so ashamed of it; it was ripped, soiled, dirty, worn through...the dirt really got to me, though. No matter how much I vacuumed, it was still horrible. We have lived in this house 12 years. Now, thanks to my wonderful, hard-working husband and helpful children, I have this terrific, beautiful hardwook floor! I am really excited because I have never been able to design my room. We always re-do all the other rooms first and then we move, so we never have worked on our room. Well, we did everyone else's rooms and we aren't moving and now it was my turn! Oh, the walls were this '70's light green striped wallpaper before, too.
Anyway, how can I explain my joy at entering my room now? It probably sounds crazy, but my heart leaps when I go in. Wow, this is mine! I know material things are not eternal, and I know this is not really all that important, but I feel so awed that I can have this nice room. I think I was kind of going for kind of an old-fashioned sort of look; it reminds me of some inns we have stayed in--but it is ours! I am very thankful. Thankful for a talented husband who is willing to work, and thankful he was willing and, I think, pleased to do this for ME--what a gift! (He said he would have been ok living in it the way it was forever or with the plywood floor after he ripped up the carpet; he is a simple kind of guy, not needing much at all to enjoy life) (but he agrees it looks good now! especially with the painting of Stonewall hung up!) :>) Anyway, thank you, God, for this material blessing and for such a wonderful family.
Since having this room, I have once again been reminded that NOTHING and NO ONE really satisfies except JESUS. As happy as I am with the room, it is just a room, nothing more, and all my hope and love and struggles and strength comes from the LORD. These things are just temporary; the unseen are the eternal. Maybe more on that later, but for now I have to go!

Here I am again!

2006-08-31T05:46:00.000-07:00

Now I know why I don't blog more often. I can't stop once I am on. Oh, yes, I was just going to get on "for a little while," and it has been an hour;I love searching your blogs and reading all the interesting things going on and commenting once in a while. What a phenomenon. Technology blows me away. I was watching a friend of Anna's last night work the computer at her house, and it was beyond words amazing! And I know my kids do the same. Boy, am I archaic.

Anyway, some quick updates. Took precious Faith to college Monday. Went well, but leaving a child away from home the first time is a strange feeling. I know God has great things in store for her, and that is exciting. It's just---wrenching, I guess is a good word--that letting go thing. How can one ever describe the love of a parent for a child? And to think, GOD loves us that way! And praise God, Faith is coming home tonight for the weekend so it is not all separation right away! Love you, Faith!!

Jared sang at the Shorebirds Friday, as most of you know. I, of all people, felt proud as a peacock. He sure has a gift. I have heard many renditions of our anthem and I have heard many people I know sing songs in public places, and this was about the best if not the best I have ever heard. No wavering or faltering. Wow. I don't think I am biased. Ask others. It was a fun night with whole family and the Singers and Perkins and others who stopped by. Fun, fun!

Yesterday Anna, Luke, Hope and I weeded the overgrown strawberry patch; I don't know if "Fun" applies here but it was not that unpleasant at all. Thankfully, the sun was not beating down, the soil was damp. It was not just a little overgrown, though. We are talking MASSIVE stalks, some at least 3 inches in diameter. And LOTS of little tough vines and weeds all woven around the good plants, choking them and hiding them. I thought of many spiritual acppications while I was out there. Letting the weeks take over in our lives, choking out the good, how they come out more easily when the soil is soft and damp...and so on. The worst thing was when Luke, my machete man at my command, hit a wasp nest by accident (that is rather stupid; who would do it on purpose? oh well). He was stung twice on the face, dropped the machete and cut his heel quite badly. I wondered about stitches, but it stopped bleeding....I washed it and put one the antibac cream; but it is such a hard place to keep clean! My kids are barefoot kings. After the weeding, Luke and I went over to the neighbors' and cut the grass (they are away), in the mist, because it sounds like great downpours could be on the way. I like grass cutting, push mower or riding. Yesterday it was push. I like it if I have time, that is. Why is there so little time, it seems, to do the things we love, to spend time with those we love? (P.S. Looking forward to spending some time with YOU, friend, on Monday!)

Last thing; I have been negligent of God's Word on a regular basis lately; I am so amazed each time how I run from the very thing(S) I need, especially God's words to me! Thankfully, he is the ever faithful one and does not give up on me. Anyway, He spoke to me so clearly yesterday. So comforting to know in the world of BILLIONS of people, He still loves ME and sends me messages designed especially for me! WoW!!! It was Proverbs 12. I won't quote all of it here, too much, but read through it if you feel so led some time. SOME tidbits, though, and then I close:
"A wife of noble character is her husband's crown; BUT a disgraceful wife is like DECAY in his bones." v. 4

"The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood; but the speech of the righteous RESCUES them." v. 6

"A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man OVERLOOKs an insult." v. 16

"Reckless words PIERCE like a sword, BUT the tongue of the wise brings HEALING!" v. 18

"An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a KIND word cheers him up" v. 25

May my words and actions please my LORD. May pleasing the LORD be the desire of my heart. So long, dear friends!

Hey! From Shippensburg, PA

2006-08-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

I can't write much because the library here only lets you have 1 hour a day and I have used most of that up. But I just wanted to say hi to everyone. MS was awesome. I did not want to come home. I love working hard like that. I think it has something to do with my works oriented faith--do something, and I am worth something. Oh well. God will keep teaching me, but anyway, I had a blessed and awesome time. What a privilege to give something back to the LORD for all He has done for me. As usual, I learned more about ME than I helped others, I am sure. What a selfish person I am! But overall, I was reminded over and over again how wonderful Jesus is. And what a Super terrific wonderful church family He has given us. And how about those young people??? We are so blessed at Providence! I am so thankful for you guys. You do honor to the Lord in your daily walks. Why am I in Shippensburg? I am away with my adorable husband. Practically all we have done is relax and read, read, read. We also visited some thrift shops and old book shops, but to most of you it would be boring. But I am very thankful. God blesses me again and again and again. More later. ABout to be cut off. LOVE you all.

Let's get the show on the road!

2006-07-10T23:26:00.000-07:00

Here it is, 2:19 in the morning and I sit here blogging. It has been very peaceful. (And I have spent time praying) The house is as silent as it ever gets; I can hear clocks ticking. NO ONE is stirring, not even the cat. WHY are you up, you may ask. There are several reasons. We leave for Mississippi on Saturday for nine days helping with Hurricane Katrina clean-up and rebuilding. (And yes, it is still a huge mess and these people are not going to be back to "normal" again for years.)

But anyway we are going with 50 people from our church. (Anna and I had the privilege of going with 15 back in October; I am excited to be going again!) Hence, another reason I am not sleeping. I am excited! I am also anxious about completing everything this week and my mind races with organizational matters; all of us are going this time except Hope. So--there is stuff to be bought--socks for 6, hammers for 4, suntan lotion, toothpaste, snacks, and so on--there is getting Hope organized to stay with two dear families...packing for her...permission forms to write and sign.....instructions for the dear college student and friend who is staying with my mother and making sure she doesn't starve to death....tools to be bought and marked and organized....packing....cleaning....ironing...cooking (life still goes on here this week, too)...Tim still working on mom's house....the kids have been great helping too....getting someone to watch and feed the lizards, cats, fish...thank God for a sweet neighbor who happens to work for Petsmart....and many other odds and ends. But it is getting done, and I am thankful. I am somewhat surprised I am not sleeping because when I was in teh checkout line at Walmart at 9:30 I was beat and I did not believe the nurse practioner's words who put me on a steroid pill to try and heal my wounded lungs "you won't be able to sleep" Ah well. Second wind? I did come home and work on some more stuff.....well anyway, those of you who read this and pray, please pray for our time and our team in MS. May we be representative of our glorious LORD and savior Jesus. May we grow in the grace and knowledge of Him. May we LOVE with HIS LOVE. May we leave SELF behind and be REAL servants!! And of course, may we touch others with the GOOD NEWS that Jesus saves and restores!

I am so thankful almost all of us get to go this time. There is definitely something to be said for sharing these experiences as family, such memories, such bonding (I hope!) We will be spending 48 hours total on the bus with each other! : > ) May God be honored. There is the key. And now, dear friends, I am getting sleepy. You probably are, too. Blessings to all and pray if you think of all of us!

A BRIEF UPDATE

2006-06-22T06:13:00.000-07:00

I don't have much time, but I have to post something! I just don't find time to get on here, but looking through the other blogs, lots of us haven't updated for some time. I think Suzanne is probably right; we all have so many other things going on!

Yesterday was my oldest daugher Faith's 20th birthday! Happy birthday, Faith! She had a wonderful surprise gift from her dear sister Sarah and dearest friend Hayley; they took her to New York City to see Phantom of the Opera!!! What a memory-making day for all of them, especially Faith! Thanks to these girls for making my daughter's day so special! There is no way to express my gratitude and happiness; God is so gracious to have given such good friends to all three of you.

The rest of the family (and Sarah on Monday) has been going to Grandma's to fix up her house to get it ready to rent after all these years! What a lot of dirty, hot work--painting, scaping, tearing off wallpaper, mudding, cleaning, cutting, priming, sanding cutting and tearing out bushes; Tim's doing all the hard work of directing us while planning and executing all the jobs that only he, the talented handyman can do (taking down paddle fans, putting up new ones, leveling floors, removing sinks and toilets, fixing leaks, re-building, re-pairing, and on and on and on. But slowly it gets done. I cannot get all the paint off my hands and arms; I keep trying and then I see more! Ugh. But it has been fun working on it as a family project; and yesterday we even had help from two of Anna's friends. Luke has been a great help, too. All of the children have uncomplainingly accepted and completed jobs that weren't always "fun" or clean.
Thanks, everyone!

We also had the wonderful opportunity to camp in the Shenandoah mountains with our friends the Prices. What a great time of enjoying God's beautiful creation! It was incredible there in the mountains. And the hikes were awesome, too. Challenging, though, but oh, so good when they were completed! The views were beyond description.

So far summer has been jam-packed--and is going much too quickly, but I must enjoy each day and be thankful, not spoiled. (more, more!) Anyway, now I must get ready to meet some new helpers for my mom, clean, shop, wash, etc. Have a wonderful day!

2006-05-22T16:14:00.000-07:00

Isn't my husband handsome? He's really sweet too.

I NEED YOU

2006-05-10T14:16:00.002-07:00

I NEED YOU (a song by The Swift) (the music is REALLY wonderful to this!)

My heart is restless in me
My wings are all worn out
I’m walking in the wilderness
And I cannot get out
I need You, Oh, I need you
Blessed Savior, come
I need You
Oh, I need You
Fill the every longing of my soul

Chorus
Oh, how I need You, Lord
I need Your perfect Word
With tearful eyes to see
The sin that I afford
I need to weep and pray
For all the thousand ways
That I have failed you just today

My bed is soaked with sadness
My sadness has no end
A downward spiral of despair
That I keep falling in
I need You, Oh, I need You
To You my soul shall fly
I need you, Oh, I need You
Yahweh, how I love You
More than life

[Chorus]

Your silence is like death to me
So won’t you hear my desperate plea

Today my soul is soaring
Way over mountains high
Though I can see the valleys
They’re all just passing by
It’s not that I am stronger
Look at my feeble wings
But I’ve been lifted higher
Yahweh’s lifted me in his own strength

Oh, how I love You, Lord
I love your perfect Word
With tearful eyes to see
The God who always will endure

Now I will celebrate
For all the thousand ways
That You have shown me grace
And made my heart in grace to stay
You’ve made my heart in grace to stay
Lord, You’ve made my heart in grace to stay
I need You, Oh, I need You

I have not been walking in love. I have dishonored my LORD; I am so sorry; I need You, Oh, I need You; Yahweh, come and give me grace to stay. Amen.

Acting in Love

2006-05-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

"If your brother is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer walking in love.

Do not by your eating destroy your brother for whom Christ died.

Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken of as evil.

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men." Romans 14:15-18

"Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification.

Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food.

All food is clean, but it is wrong for a woman to eat anything that causes another to stumble.

It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to stumble." Romans 14:20-21

"Blessed is the woman who does not condemn herself by what she approves." Romans 14:22b

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Fathere of our Lord Jesus Christ. " Romans 15:5

EXCELLENT

2006-05-06T04:44:00.000-07:00

EXCELLENT--outstandingly good of its kind; of exceptional merit, virtue, etc.

Yesterday afternoon FAITH HANNAH HARR was awarded the "EXCELLENCE IN ENGINEERING" award at Salisbury University's Honors Convocation (contrary to what the program read, it was in engineering, not physics, although she is excellent in that, too). She received applause, a plaque, and a small monetary gift. Her name will also be displayed on a plaque in the Henson Science building. We are so proud of her!
I know I have said it before, but Faith works hard!! In a tiny way, I am trying to encourage and recognize her now. You are special, Faith! You have gifts from God, and, very importantly, you use them for His glory. You are definitely to be commended for how hard you strive to excel; no sitting around or shirking your responsibility. There is no way we as parents can describe how we felt sitting in the crowd seeing you up on that stage! "A wise daughter brings joy to her father (and mother)." Proverbs 10:1. You definitely bring us JOY! You are so beautiful, inside and out. May God write on your heart how very much we love you, before you arrived here, since you were born, now, and forever. Congratulations!

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the LORD, not for men, since you know you will receive an inheritance from the LORD as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3:23