Thy Grace Is Sufficient

Knowing Your Place

2011-02-21T14:35:00.000-06:00

Just thought I share an e-mail sent to me. I have been having a rough go. My MS has flared and caused me to have to use a cane for a while. First time for me to have to use a cane. A humbling experience for me.

I still realize God's grace is sufficient and that He is still on His throne. Sometimes He just has to remind me of that.

Knowing Your Place

You are seated with Christ at God's right hand...
Nothing is higher than that !
God loves you with an everlasting love...
Nothing is deeper than that !
He invites you to drink from the river of His delights...
Nothing is purer than that !
He shares His heart with you in communion...
Nothing is dearer than that !
He watches over you with tender mercies...
Nothing is kinder that that !
He is with you and will never leave you...
Nothing is nearer than that !
He leads you according to the counsel of His own will...
Nothing is wiser than that !
He faithfully feeds you from His word...
Nothing is truer than that !
He is in you and joined to your spirit...
Nothing is closer than that !

-Roy Lessin

Who Am I

2011-01-04T23:25:00.000-06:00

I have signed up on Beth Moore's site, Living Proof and committed to memorizing 24 verses of scripture for the coming year. We commit to memorizing a verse on the 1st and the 15th of each month. Each person decides for their self what scripture they feel God is leading them to memorize. Then each person logs in with their scripture for the appointed time.

The scripture that I have committed to memorize for January 1, 2011 is 2 Samuel 7:18.

"And King David went in and sat before the Lord and he said, Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house that You should bring me this far." 2 Samuel 7:18

I have just finished a Deeper Still Bible Study and this is one of the verses that has really spoken to me. I have just sat and parked awhile with this verse, meditate on it, or chewed the cud as some old timers used to say. The New Year is really the time to stop and reflect on what God has done for us and our families. For us to realize that is because of nothing that we have done but because He loves us. All of the time it is for God 's glory and for His sake.
In Isaiah 37:35 God says:
35 For I will defend this city to save it for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake.
Isaiah 45:11
For My own sake, for My own sake, I will do it; For how should My name be profaned? And I will not give My glory to another.
Just some thoughts for you to reflect upon.
Blessings my dear friends
Linda

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T11:34:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year every one. I pray that 2011 holds all that you envision it to be. However, we all know that most of our dreams do not always come true. Unexpected things pop up in our life that we did not plan for. That is part of living in this sin cursed world. There is only one thing that we can count on. That is God is there no matter what we are going through. So when you do not know what to do this coming year keep your eyes upon Him and follow in His steps.

White Christmas

2010-12-27T09:30:00.000-06:00

We woke up to a white Christmas. The first in many years. It was beautiful. It was my granddaughter's first Christmas. We really enjoyed seeing the snow. Now I am ready for it to leave. I thought I would share a few pictures with you.

Our side yard with more snow to come.

The highway in front of our house.

Walking in the woods.

Out riding to the Lake.

Our granddaughter Hannah with her Great Aunt April.

Becky Kelley - Where's the Line to See Jesus - OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

2010-12-10T16:38:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T02:56:00.000-06:00

I know that everyone has so much to be Thankful for. I have. There is so much that God has blessed me with. I know for some this year has been harder financially than it is in the past. However, I know that most of us still have more than our brothers and sisters around the world.
I have been blessed with a granddaughter this year. Hannah is nearly 4 months old. She melts our hearts.

My parents are still here to celebrate Thanksgiving with us. Dad had a nasty fall a couple of months ago and then developed clots on his brain. He was in the hospital for several days. God was gracious and allowed him to come home. God used him during his time in the hospital and he led 4 precious souls to Christ during his stay. Mother is doing so much better. She has pretty much recovered from her stroke in 2009.
Another praise, my best friend's husband received Christ as his Savior. I having been praying for him since I have known her (19yrs). He is 83 yrs old. He is quite a bit older than her. I have been rejoicing since receiving her phone call on Saturday.
A prayer request, pray for my brother who wife went to heaven last October. The holidays are really hard for him and the family this year. Last year he was still in shock. This year it is really hitting him.
More exciting news. My nephew just finished 15 weeks of basic training. He is home on a 10 day leave before going to his next placement. He has surprised everyone today by eloping. We are pleased to have a new addition to our ever growing family. I know that my brother and my sister in love are thrilled to have a daughter in love. Since they missed out on the girls like I did. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!

Preview

Enjoy the link!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-30T18:10:00.000-05:00

Every time I think of this time of year. I remember in elementary school memorizing this poem. I am sure many of you did too. I hope you enjoy the trip back down memory lane.

Five Little Pumpkins

Five little pumpkins
Sitting on a gate.
The first one said,
"Oh, my it's getting late!"
The second one said,
"There are witches in the air!"
The third one said,

"Well, I don't care!"

The fourth one said,
"Let's run and run and run!"
The fifth one said,
"I'm ready for some fun!"
Ooooo went the wind
And out went the lights
And the five little pumpkins
Rolled out of sight.

This Far

2010-10-25T17:38:00.001-05:00

What have you been doing this fall? What have you been studying in God's Word? I have been using "Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed" by Priscilla Shirer, Beth Moore, & Kay Arthur to study with this fall. This past week the verse that we are dwelling upon is

2 Samuel 7:18 "Then King David went in and sat before the LORD; and he said: "Who am I, O Lord God? And what is my house, that You have brought me this far?"

I thought I would just share with you my friends and let you dwell with me on what how God has brought you this far. How great His grace and mercy is upon someone like me and you that he should do so much for us when he shouldn't do one thing for us. How deep His love for us.

Happy Fall

2010-10-14T12:14:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful autumn season. Things have been hectic here. My father has had a fall off a ladder. Has been in the hospital twice because of the fall. This last time he had multiple blood clots resulting from the fall three weeks before. He has been in the hospital 9 days. Thank the Lord he is coming home today. God has been gracious!
My husband and oldest son have had a very bad viral sinus infection but are on the road to recovery. I have been enjoying keeping my 10 week old granddaughter, Hannah. I also have a frozen left shoulder. So I am going to physical therapy to regain my range of motion.
However, I do love the glorious autumn season, beautiful fall leaves, and cool, crisp days. Here is an email sent to me today. Hope you enjoy.

Being a Christian is like being a pumpkin. God lifts you up, takes you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. He opens you up, touches you deep inside and scoops out all the yucky stuff-- including the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside you to shine for all the world to see. This was passed on to me from another pumpkin. Now, it is your turn to pass it to a pumpkin. I liked this enough to send it to all the pumpkins in my patch. Happy Fall!

Recall Notice

2010-08-27T14:28:00.000-05:00

This was forwarded to me in an email this morning. I thought I would share it with you.

RECALL NOTICE:

The Maker of all human beings (GOD) is recalling all units manufactured, regardless of make or year, due to a serious defect in the primary and central component of the heart.
This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named Adam and Eve, resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units. This defect has been technically termed "Sub-sequential Internal Non-Morality," or more commonly known as S.I.N., as it is primarily expressed.

Some of the symptoms include:
1. Loss of direction
2. Foul vocal emissions
3. Amnesia of origin
4. Lack of peace and joy
5. Selfish or violent behavior
6. Depression or confusion in the mental component
7. Fearfulness
8. Idolatry
9. Rebellion

The Manufacturer, who is neither liable nor at fault for this defect, is providing factory-authorized repair and service free of charge to correct this defect.

The Repair Technician, JESUS, has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs. There is no additional fee required.

The number to call for repair in all areas is: P-R-A-Y-E-R.
Once connected, please upload your burden of SIN through the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT from the Repair Technician, Jesus, into the heart component.

No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Jesus will replace it with:
1. Love
2. Joy
3. Peace
4. Patience
5. Kindness
6. Goodness
7. Faithfulness
8. Gentleness
9. Self control

Please see the operating manual, the B.I.B.L.E. (Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth) for further details on the use of these fixes.
WARNING: Continuing to operate the human being unit without correction voids any manufacturer warranties, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list and will result in the human unit being permanently impounded. For free emergency service, call on Jesus.

DANGER: The human being units not responding to this recall action will have to be scrapped in the furnace. The SIN defect will not be permitted to enter Heaven so as to prevent contamination of that facility. Thank you for your attention!

- GOD

P.S. Please assist where possible by notifying others of this important recall notice, and you may contact the Father any time by 'Knee mail'!

Because He Lives!

Scars of Life

2010-07-27T07:31:00.002-05:00

SCARS OF LIFE

Some years ago,

on a hot summer day

in South Florida ,

a little boy decided to go

for a swim in the old swimming hole behind his house.

In a hurry to dive into

the cool water,

he ran out the back door, leaving behind shoes, socks, and shirt as he went.

He flew into the water,

not realizing that as he swam toward the middle of the lake, an alligator was swimming toward the shore.

His father, working in the yard, saw the two as they got closer and closer together.

In utter fear,

he ran toward the water,

yelling to his son as loudly

as he could.

Hearing his voice,

the little boy became alarmed and made a U-turn

to swim to his father.

It was too late.

Just as he reached his father, the alligator reached him.

From the dock,

the father grabbed his little boy by the arms

just as the alligator

snatched his legs...

That began an incredible

tug-of-war between the two. The alligator was much stronger than the father,

but the father was much

too passionate to let go.

A farmer happened to drive by, heard his screams,

raced from his truck,

took aim and shot the alligator.

Remarkably, after weeks and weeks in the hospital,

the little boy survived.

His legs were extremely scarred by the vicious attack

of the animal.

And, on his arms,

were deep scratches

where his father ' s fingernails dug into his flesh in his effort

to hang on to the son he loved.

The newspaper reporter

who interviewed the boy

after the trauma,

asked if he would

show him his scars.

The boy lifted his pant legs. And then, with obvious pride, he said to the reporter,

'But look at my arms.

I have great scars

on my arms, too.

I have them because

my Dad wouldn ' t let go. '

You and I can identify

with that little boy.

We have scars, too.

No, not from an alligator,

but the scars of a painful past. Some of those scars

are unsightly and have

caused us deep regret.

But, some wounds,

my friend,

are because God has refused

to let go.

In the midst of your struggle, He ' s been there

holding on to you...

The Scripture teaches that

God loves you.

You are a child of God.

He wants to protect you

and

provide for you in every way. But sometimes we foolishly wade into dangerous situations, not knowing what lies ahead. The swimming hole of life

is filled with peril -

and we forget

that the enemy is waiting

to attack.

That ' s when the tug-of-war begins - and if you have

the scars of His love

on your arms,

be very, very grateful.

He did not and will not ever let you go.

Please pass this on

to those you love...

God has blessed you,

so that you

can be

a blessing to others.

You just never know

where

a person is in his/her life

and

what they are going through. Never judge another

person ' s scars,

because you don ' t know

how they got them...

Also,

it is so important that

we are not selfish,

to receive the blessings

of these messages,

without forwarding them

to someone else.
Right now,

someone needs to know that God loves them,

and you love them, too -

enough to not let them go .

Always

Tell Your Family

And Friends

How Much

You Love Them!!!

Would You Like Some Cake

2010-07-11T13:06:00.001-05:00

Today is my youngest brother's birthday. He is 44. We have teased him all his life that we found him in a brush pile. So whenever anything goes wrong he claims it "I am a brushpile baby". He and I have so much fun teasing each other. I love my brother dearly.

Have you ever that about what it takes to make a delicious birthday cake? Here is a story I would like to share with you. I hope you enjoy it. Happy Birthday Bro.

Sometimes we wonder, "What did I do to deserve this?" or "Why did God have to do this to me?" Here is a wonderful explanation! A daughter is telling her Mother how everything is going wrong, she's failing algebra, her boyfriend broke up with her and her best friend is moving away.
Meanwhile, her Mother is baking a cake and asks her daughter if she would like a snack, and the daughter says, "Absolutely Mom, I love your cake"
"Here, have some cooking oil," her Mother offers. "Yuck" says her daughter.
"How about a couple raw eggs?" "Gross, Mom!"
"Would you like some flour then? Or maybe baking soda?" "Mom, those are all yucky!"
To which the mother replies: "Yes, all those things seem bad all by themselves. But when they are put together in the right way, they make a wonderfully delicious cake!
God works the same way. Many times we wonder why He would let us go through such bad and difficult times. But God knows that when He puts these things all in His order, they always work for good! We just have to trust Him and, eventually, they will all make something wonderful!
God is crazy about you. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning.
Whenever you want to talk, He'll listen. He can live anywhere in the universe, and He chose your heart.
If you like this, share with the people you really care about. I did.

Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well dance.

God Bless America

2010-07-02T08:41:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to observe our National holiday in some way. I hope that each of you are enjoying this glorious Independence Day weekend.
Don' t forget to take time to realize that our freedom has come to us at a price for freedom is never free. Continue to pray for this great nation of ours. We may not agree with everything that is going on but we are commanded in God's word to pray for leaders whether we agree with them or not. Pray that return to what we were. Pray for what we can be again with God's help. Pray for all those men & women around the world who are fighting to protect our freedom. Don't take it for granted. We have already seen there are so many who would love to take it from us.
I have a nephew who has joined the military and will leave next month for basics. Please pray for him and his protection. His name is Jake.

God Bless America

Irving Berlin

While the storm clouds gather far across the sea,

Let us swear allegiance to a land that's free,
Let us all be grateful for a land so fair,
As we raise our voices in a solemn prayer.

God Bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside her, and guide her
Through the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God bless America, My home sweet home.

Masks

2010-07-01T14:59:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about great deal masks. You know those that we all hide behind. Masks are those
objects worn either to disguise or protect the face or to project the image of another personality or being.
Seems like everyone in my extended family is probably hiding behind a mask and that none of us know the true person behind the mask.
Isn't it a shame that we don't feel free to be ourselves with our own families. I know that in my extended family I am the peacemaker and the go between for everyone, the messenger. I feel like one day the messenger will probably be killed if not directly, indirectly from the stress of it all. We have those who hide their hurt behind humor or too much of it. We have those who love the drama of it all. We have those who just retreat. Those who love to be in the lime light so their mask is big and showy. Others are quite sedate. Some are clownish. I know that right now I would love to rip everyone's mask off and make them show their true colors but the wounds may be too deep for that. What mask are you wearing?

Quilt Holes

2010-06-30T10:33:00.000-05:00

Quilt of Holes

Author: Unknown

As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt
before the Lord along with all the other souls.

Before each of us laid our lives like the squares
of a quilt in many
piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our
quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.

But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the
pile, I noticed how ragged
and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each
square was labeled with a part of my life that had
been difficult, the
challenges and temptations I was faced with in
every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.

I glanced around me. Nobody else had such
squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled
with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own
life and was disheartened.

My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.

Finally the time came when each life was to be
displayed, held up to the the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each
in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been.
My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise.

My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't
had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But
there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false
accusations that took from me my
world, as I knew it. I had to start over many
times. I often struggled with
the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and
begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in
prayer, asking for help and
guidance in my life. I had often been held up to
ridicule, which I endured
painfully, each time offering it up to the Father
in hopes that I would not
melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of
those who unfairly judged me.

And now, I had to face the truth. My life was
what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.
I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of
my life to the light.

An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around
at the others who stared at me with wide eyes.

Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light
flooded the many holes,
creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our
Lord stood before me, with
warmth and love in His eyes. He said, "Every time
you gave over your life
to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My
struggles.

Each point of light in your life is when you
stepped aside and let Me shine
through, until there was more of Me than there was
of you."

May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing
Christ to shine through!

Life is in the Dash

2010-06-03T14:13:00.000-05:00

Life is in the dash. Do you know what dash I mean? I am talking about the dash that goes between your birth date and the date of your death? What are people going to say about your dash? Is your dash full of passion? Vigor? Hope? Compassion? Excitement? Adventure? Good Morals? Friendship? Love? Hate? Dread? Hopelessness? A walk with Christ? Christless? Lonely? Happy? Sad? Healthy? Sick? Helpful? Caring? Contented? What can be said about your dash? What you like said about your dash?

In James 4:14 the Bible tells us "Where as you do not know what will happen tomorrow what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away." With what little time we have determine how you want dash to be remembered.

This is a picture of Sgt. Alvin C. York's grave. He was a distant relative of my husband. His dash was known for his bravery during war time. His struggle over going to war because of killing other humans. His gift of giving back to the county in which he was from by providing a high school to the area known as the York Institute.

My plan for this post didn't necessarily mean to tie in with Memorial day. But it wound up doing so. I just meant to demonstrate the dash of our lives. I hope my dash is as meaningful in some way. I pray yours is as well. We may not be military war heroes for our nation. But we are in fight every day for the souls of our children, grandchildren, friends, and neighbors. Are we good soldiers for the cause of Christ? Linda 1960 -

When Things Aren't Going as Planned

2010-06-02T13:51:00.001-05:00

When things aren't going as planned, how do you handle it? Today, on my way to a doctor's appointment, I heard this song on the radio. It was very appropriate. Things are not following my plans for my life. But they are following my Master's plan. I am not sure if things are something to be concerned about or not but He is giving me the grace for this day.And I am bowing my knee to His purpose and plan.

BOW THE KNEE

There are moments on our journey following the Lord
Where God illumines ev’ry step we take.
There are times when circumstances make perfect sense to us,
As we try to understand each move He makes.
When the path grows dim and our questions have no answers, turn to Him.

Chorus:
*Bow the knee;
Trust the heart of your Father when the answer goes beyond what you can see.
Bow the knee;
Lift your eyes toward heaven and believe the One who holds eternity.
And when you don’t understand the purpose of His plan,
In the presence of the King, bow the knee.

There are days when clouds surround us, and the rain begins to fall,
The cold and lonely winds won’t cease to blow.
And there seems to be no reason for the suffering we feel;
We are tempted to believe God does not know.
When the storms arise, don’t forget we live by faith and not by sight.

*Bow the knee;
Trust the heart of your Father when the answer goes beyond what you can see.
Bow the knee;
Lift your eyes toward heaven and believe the One who holds eternity.
And when you don’t understand the purpose of His plan,
In the presence of the King, bow the knee.

Listen to the song here.

Hannah's Blessing

2010-05-24T20:09:00.000-05:00

This weekend we held a baby shower for my daughter in love. As most of you know a little over a year ago, we found out that grandson that we thought was ours was not. I still grieve over that fact. I know that it indeed was blessing from God that Bradley was not my son's. But in the short time that we thought that he was, we grew very attached to him. I still pray for him and his mother.

Back to the good news. I have been doing Beth Moore's study of the Patriarchs. I am just about finished with it. However, Saturday, the morning of the baby shower I was doing the study. On this day it was Jacob blessing Joseph's son Manasseh and Ephraim in Genesis 48. I have taken that blessing and personalized for our granddaughter who is due in August. Just reading the Blessing has blessed me in Genesis 48:15 & 16. It should make any child of God lift their hand in praise.

Hannah's Blessing

God before whom our fathers
Abraham and Isaac walked
The God who has fed us
all our life to this day.
The Angel who has redeemed
us from evil.
Bless Hannah;

Let our name be named upon her
And the name of our fathers
Abraham and Isaac;
And let her grow into a
multitude in the midst of the earth.
Genesis 48:15&16

Cleaning the Attic

2010-05-17T10:43:00.000-05:00

Cleaning the Attic

Last week, I spent a couple of the cool, rainy days cleaning the attic. Okay, I didn't get it completely cleaned out but I got started. I made a dent in it.
It is hard to make much of a dent, when you are flooded with memories.

My attic has so much junk stashed up there that should have gone to the dump. It also so many memories in it that should have gone into a journal. However, I was busy living life and didn't write it all down. Plus, I am not a journal person. Over the years, I written a few things but not near enough. But my attic is full.

The one person who placed so much in our attic is my youngest. Everything thing that he was through with made its way to the attic. The door to the attic is just outside his bedroom door.

In my attic you will find the usual, Christmas tree and ornaments, canning supplies and many discarded items.
It is the discarded items of my children's childhood and youth that brought back the memories.

I found the legos, matchbox cars, stuffed toys and Pirate ships. I found discarded baseball trophies, even discarded crossbows probably in search of a beau. Since I found the first few lines of a letter to a girlfriend.

Where did all the time go? From the first Christmas tree of a couple who could not afford anything but a $10 gift for each other to an attic overflowing. Grown men for children with a grandchild on the way. Oh, the memories that flood my attic! Will more be placed up here in the years to come? I did make room for more as I came up here to clean didn't I?

Linda K. S. Holt

Allergies

2010-04-16T14:54:00.000-05:00

Have you been bothered with allergies lately? I sure have. It is no wonder with all the pollen. I have a "supposedly" white car. But here lately you would think it was neon green.
I had a young man wash it for me Wednesday morning but Thursday it didn't look it had been touched. I am sure everyone else can identify.
Today my sweet niece sent me a couple of "Maxine" cartoons. Don't you just love "Maxine"? Thought I would share with you.

Have a Blessed Day.

Arise My Love

2010-04-03T20:43:00.006-05:00

Arise My Love

Tomorrow is Easter! Yesterday was Good Friday. We looked back to the crucifixion of our Savior. What a terrible time that was. Can you imagine being the disciples and His followers not understanding all of His teachings? All of the sudden the Man that you placed all of your hopes and dreams in has been killed. How devastated you would be! How many people feel that way even today? Everything that they have placed their hopes and dreams in has crumpled or someone has disappointed them more than they ever imagined?
What are they going to do? What Hope did the disciples have? The same Hope that we can have today if we will just turn to Him. Jesus Christ is the Only One who has ever Risen from the dead never to die again. He offers eternal if we will just accept it from Him. I wanted to share with you one of my favorite Easter Celebration Songs. Worship with me today. Follow the link at title.

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My Son

2010-02-18T19:11:00.001-06:00

I received this in an email today. It was the only email today of any real importance. I received funny emails that made me laugh. However, this one strikes home with the truth. I pray that you take a moment to read it and apply it if you haven't already done so. I have heard the story before but it is one that does not get old.

Take my Son

A wealthy man and his son loved to collect rare works of art. They had everything in their collection, from Picasso to Raphael. They would often sit together and admire the great works of art..

When the Vietnam conflict broke out, the son went to war. He was very courageous and died in battle while rescuing another soldier. The father was notified and grieved deeply for his only son.

About a month later, just before Christmas,

There was a knock at the door. A young man stood at the door with a large package in his hands..

He said, 'Sir, you don't know me, but I am the soldier for whom your son gave his life. He saved many lives that day, and he was carrying me to safety when a bullet struck him in the heart and he died instantly... He often talked about you, and your love for art.' The young man held out this package. 'I know this isn't much. I'm not really a great artist, but I think your son would have wanted you to have this.'

The father

Opened the package. It was a portrait of his son, painted by the young man. He stared in awe at the way the soldier had captured the personality of his son in the painting. The father was so drawn to the eyes that his own eyes welled up with tears. He thanked the young man and offered to pay him for the picture.. 'Oh, no sir, I could never repay what your son did for me. It's a gift.'

The father hung the portrait over his mantle. Every time visitors came to his home he took them to see the portrait of his son before he showed them any of the other great works he had collected.

The man died a few months later. There was to be a great auction of his paintings. Many influential people gathered, excited over seeing the great paintings and having an opportunity to purchase one for their collection.

On the platform sat the painting of the son. The auctioneer pounded his gavel. 'We will start the bidding with this picture of the son. Who will bid for this picture?'

There was silence...

Then a voice in the back of the room shouted, 'We want to see the famous paintings. Skip this one.'

But the auctioneer persisted. 'Will somebody bid for this painting? Who will start the bidding? $100, $200?'

Another voice angrily. 'We didn't come to see this painting. We came to see the VanGogh's, the Rembrandt's. Get on with the

Real bids!'

But still the auctioneer continued. 'The son! The son! Who'll take the son?'

Finally, a voice came from the very back of the room. It was the longtime gardener of the man and his son. 'I'll give $10 for the painting...' Being a poor man, it was all he could afford.

'We have $10, who will bid $20?'

'Give it to him for $10.. Let's see the masters.'

The crowd was becoming angry. They didn't want the picture of the son.

They wanted the more worthy investments for their collections..

The auctioneer pounded the gavel.. 'Going once, twice, SOLD for $10!'

A man sitting on the second row shouted, 'Now let's get on with the collection!'

The auctioneer laid down his gavel. 'I'm sorry, the auction is over.'

'What about the paintings?'

'I am sorry. When I was called to conduct this auction, I was told of a secret stipulation in the will.... I was not allowed to reveal that stipulation until this time. Only the painting of the son would be auctioned. Whoever bought that painting would inherit the entire estate, including the paintings.

The man who took the son gets everything!'

God gave His son 2,000 years ago to die on the cross. Much like the auctioneer, His message today is: 'The son, the son, who'll take the son?'

Because, you see, whoever takes the Son gets everything.

FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, WHO SO EVER BELIEVETH, SHALL HAVE ETERNAL LIFE...THAT'S LOVE

A fun Meme

2010-02-01T09:13:00.000-06:00

I was tagged by my Sisnlove over on Jimsruby. I have been blessed with a wonderful sister in love. She is suffering with a sinus infection right now so please say a prayer for her.

Tag, your it!
You have been tagged Here's whatcha do Copy & Paste to your site & don't forget to comment on mine so I can check your's out!! Have fun!!

1. What is your occupation right now?
Homemaker and keep books for my husband's business

2. What color are your socks right now?
None-wearing house shoes

3. What are you listening to right now?
The TV in the den

4. What was the last thing that you ate?
Banana Bread

5. Can you drive a stick shift?
No even though my husband runs a transmission repair shop. My kids never would let him teach me. Whenever he owned a manual transmission vehicle, the y would complain if he tried to teach me.
6. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Ms Dot

7. Do you like the person who tagged you?
I love My Sis n Love

8. How old are you today?
50

9. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV? NONE

10. What is your favorite drink?
Coffee in cold weather, sweet tea in hot weather

11. Have you ever dyed your hair?
Only my hairdresser knows and everyone else in the salon. lol

12. Favorite food?
you can tell I love food.

13. What is the last movie you watched?
Autumn in New York

14. Favorite day of the year?
Don't have one.

15. How do you vent anger?
I tend to keep it in.16. What was your favorite toy as a child?
Ballerina Doll

17. What is your favorite season?
Spring/Fall
18. Cherries or Blueberries? neither my 2 least favorite

19. How many grandchildren do you have?
one on the way in August. yippee

20. When was the last time you cried?
don't remember exact day. seems like all winter

21. What is on the floor of your closet?
shoes

22. Who is the friend you have had the longest?
Linda & Molly

23. What did you do last night?
Watched a movie

24. What are you most afraid of?
I am not sure if I am but I do have concerns. I don't dwell on fears. But I do have a reverent fear of God.

25. Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers?
Cheese
26. Favorite dog breed?
Always wanted a collie

27. Favorite day of the week?
Saturday
28. How many states have you lived in? 3

29. Diamonds or pearls?
Diamonds
30. What is your favorite flower?I love Roses that you grow yourself but then again I love most any flowers.

We Have Snow

2010-01-29T19:24:00.001-06:00

We finally have a good snow. When I last measure it is 4 1/2 ". I haven't seen this much snow in a very long time. Probably since the blizzard of 1993. When I was a teenager, we had snow all the time in the winter. In fact the year I was a senior we were snowed in from Christmas break until the first of February. It had gotten to the point that I hated to see snow. Now that I rarely see snow other than a few flurries on occasion, I am beginning to feel like a kid again about the snow.

Here are few pictures of the birds in the back yard.

As you can tell we have mostly cardinals. I am so glad because they are one of my favorite birds and they remind of my Grandmother S. who was an avid bird lover.

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T17:43:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year to all my blog friends. I pray this year is all that you hope it to be. That the Lord blesses you with good health and finds you in the center of His will. Who knows this may be the year that our Lord comes to take us home. Even so Come Lord Quickly.

"Finally there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved his appearing."

2 Timothy 4:8

We Made It Through Christmas Eve

2009-12-25T02:08:00.001-06:00

Christmas Eve is traditionally spent with my side of the family and for most years at my parents home;. The last couple of years because of my Mothers health we have spent it at my younger brother and his wife's home. Some of the grandkids had said that it did not seem like Christmas without being at Nana's and Pa's. So we went back their house this year.

We knew it would be hard. Nana 's health has improved some since her stroke this past summer. However, she is still not quite the same. She is much quieter and not able to get around as easily as before. Then with my sister- in -love's home going, we were all rather sad but trying to keep the mood light for everyone else. But you knew that everyone missed her so.

The meal wasn't quite as much as before but that was okay. No one had quite as much of an appetite as before. Although we have started the tradition of having chili for the past several years. A few traditions changed this year or were completely dropped. Instead of my Sis-in-love bringing her Potato Salad , her daughter had that honor this year. It was delicious. However, I had hard time eating it and not thinking of her mother for she was our designated Potato salad maker for every family gathering. She made the best.

When dessert time came it was mentioned more than once that even though a chocolate cake was there. It did not have hard candy icing. That is my job. I let them down. I was not in the mood. I was trying to keep a tradition that my Granny always did. She made Chocolate Peanut butter Balls. Those things are hard work. My hubby helped some. He said he wouldn't do that again for them. After making all those balls and dipping them in chocolate. I just couldn't start making a cake.

Then some of mentioned that we didn't have our Christmas punch. Mother has made that since I can remember. This was a FIRST!!! She sent Dad after an ingredient but he came home with the wrong thing.

Yes Christmas was different. But we still had each other and we had love and no one doubted that love. We also knew what the real meaning of Christmas and it is not all those traditions of favorite foods and places to meet. But it is THE GIFT of GOD'S SON sent down to earth as babe born in a manger to become the Savior of the World. EMMANUEL - GOD WITH US. We miss Sherry but we have the blessed hope of seeing her again because we have THE BLESSED HOPE!

Merry Christmas Everyone!!!

What is Your Favorite Christmas Carol, Song or Hymn

2009-12-16T21:04:00.000-06:00

What is your favorite Christmas carol or song. ? We all have many memories of favorite songs of this time of year. Some of our earliest may be Jingle Bells, Jingle bell Rock, Silent Night,Oh Come All Ye Faithful or Away in the Manger. No matter what it is I am sure it brings back some fond memories.

My Favorite Christmas Song is "Mary Did You Know?" Can you imagine being Mary holding your new born baby knowing that He is the Son of God and wondering what is in store for Him. If you are a mother, you know what it is like to hold your newborn and wonder what his life will be like. If you will be able to mother him, protect him, guide him or have any wisdom at all in how to any of those things. But can you imagine what it be like to have been entrusted to bring up the Son of God until He reached the age of earthly maturity. What an awesome responsiblity?

One person who thought about the things that Mary could have thought about holding her newborn but could have not possibly known was Mark Lowry. In 1984 he composed the following song. It gives me cold chills everytime I hear it.

MARY DID YOU KNOW

Mary did you know, that your baby boy
Would one day walk on water?
Mary did you know, that your baby boy
Would save our sons and daughters?

Did you know, that your baby boy
Has come to make you new?
This Child that you delivered,
Will soon deliver you!

Mary did you know, that your baby boy
Will give sight to the blind man?
Mary did you know, that your baby boy

Would calm a storm with His hand?

Did you know, that your baby boy
Has walked where angels trod
And when you kiss your little baby,
You've kissed the face of God?

Oh, Mary did you know?
Mary did you know?

The blind will see, the deaf will hear,
The dead will live again,
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak
Praises of the Lamb?

Mary did you know, that your baby boy
Is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know, that your baby boy
Will one day rule the nations?

Did you know, that your baby boy
Was Heaven's perfect Lamb?
And this sleeping Child you're holding
Is the Great I AM

~ Words by Mark Lowry ~
~ Music by Buddy Greene ~

Daniel's Gloves

2009-11-11T08:06:00.008-06:00

An Anonymous Story called "Daniel's Gloves" (Author Unknown or is it? Please. Read on.) I sat, with two friends, in the picture window of a quaint restaurant just off the corner of the town-square. The food and the company were both especially good that day.

As we talked, my attention was drawn outside, across the street.. There, walking into town, was a man who appeared to be carrying all his worldly goods on his back. He was carrying, a well-worn sign that read, 'I will work for food.' My heart sank. I brought him to the attention of my friends and noticed that others around us had stopped eating to focus on him. Heads moved in a mixture of sadness and disbelief. We continued with our meal, but his image lingered in my mind. We finished our meal and went our separate ways.

I had errands to do and quickly set out to accomplish them. I glanced toward the town square, looking somewhat halfheartedly for the strange visitor. I was fearful, knowing that seeing him again would call some response. I drove through town and saw nothing of him.

I made some purchases at a store and got back in my car. Deep within me, the Spirit of God kept speaking to me: 'Don't go back to the office until you've at least driven once more around the square.' Then with some hesitancy, I headed back into town. As I turned the square's third corner, I saw him. He was standing on the steps of the store front church, going through his sack. I stopped and looked; feeling both compelled to speak to him, yet wanting to drive on. The empty parking space on the corner seemed to be a sign from God: an invitation to park. I pulled in, got out and approached the town's newest visitor.

'Looking for the pastor?' I asked. 'Not really,' he replied, 'just resting.' 'Have you eaten today?' 'Oh, I ate something early this morning.' 'Would you like to have lunch with me?' 'Do you have some work I could do for you?' 'No work,' I replied 'I commute here to work from the city, but I would like to take you to lunch.' 'Sure,' he replied with a smile.
As he began to gather his things, I asked some surface questions.

Where you headed?' ' St. Louis '
'Where you from?' 'Oh, all over; mostly Florida ..'
'How long you been walking?' 'Fourteen years,' came the reply.

I knew I had met someone unusual. We sat across from each other in the same restaurant I had left earlier. His face was weathered slightly beyond his 38 years. His eyes were dark yet clear, and he spoke with an eloquence and articulation that was startling. He removed his jacket to reveal a bright red T-shirt that said, 'Jesus is The Never Ending Story.'

Then Daniel's story began to unfold. He had seen rough times early in life. He'd made some wrong choices and reaped the consequences.. Fourteen years earlier, while backpacking across the country, he had stopped on the beach in Daytona. He tried to hire on with some men who were putting up a large tent and some equipment. A concert, he thought. He was hired, but the tent would not house a concert but revival services, and in those services he saw life more clearly.. He gave his life over to God 'Nothing's been the same since,' he said, 'I felt the Lord telling me to keep walking, and so I did, some 14 years now.'

'Ever think of stopping?' I asked. 'Oh, once in a while, when it seems to get the best of me. But God has given me this calling. I give out Bibles, that's what's in my sack. I work to buy food and Bibles, and I give them out when His Spirit leads.' I sat amazed. My homeless friend was not homeless. He was on a mission and lived this way by choice. The question burned inside for a moment and then I asked: 'What's it like?' 'What?' 'To walk into a town carrying all your things on your back and to show your sign?' 'Oh, it was humiliating at first. People would stare and make comments. Once someone tossed a piece of half-eaten bread and made a gesture that certainly didn't make me feel welcome. But then it became humbling to realize that God was using me to touch lives and change people's concepts of other folks like me.' My concept was changing, too.

We finished our dessert and gathered his things. Just outside the door, he paused. He turned to me and said, 'Come Ye blessed of my Father and inherit the kingdom I've prepared for you. For when I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty you gave me drink, a stranger and you took me in.' I felt as if we were on holy ground.

'Could you use another Bible?' I asked. He said he preferred a certain translation. It traveled well and was not too heavy. It was also his personal favorite. 'I've read through it 14 times,' he said. 'I'm not sure we've got one of those, but let's stop by our church and see' I was able to find my new friend a Bible that would do well, and he seemed very grateful.

'Where are you headed from here?' I asked. 'Well, I found this little map on the back of this amusement park coupon.' 'Are you hoping to hire on there for awhile?' 'No, I just figure I should go there. I figure someone under that star right there needs a Bible, so that's where I'm going next.' He smiled, and the warmth of his spirit radiated the sincerity of his mission. I drove him back to the town-square where we'd met two hours earlier, and as we drove, it started raining. We parked and unloaded his things. 'Would you sign my autograph book?' he asked. 'I like to keep messages from folks I meet.' I wrote in his little book that his commitment to his calling had touched my life. I encouraged him to stay strong. And I left him with a verse of scripture from Jeremiah, 'I know the plans I have for you, declared the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you; Plans to give you a future and a hope.' 'Thanks, man,' he said. 'I know we just met and we're really just strangers, but I love you.' 'I know,' I said, 'I love you, too.' 'The Lord is good!' 'Yes, He is. How long has it been since someone hugged you?' I asked. A long time,' he replied And so on the busy street corner in the drizzling rain, my new friend and I embraced, and I felt deep inside that I had been changed.. He put his things on his back, smiled his winning smile and said, 'See you in the New Jerusalem.' 'I'll be there!' was my reply. He began his journey again. He headed away with his sign dangling from his bedroll and pack of Bibles. He stopped, turned and said, 'When you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?' 'You bet,' I shouted back, 'God bless.' 'God bless.' And that was the last I saw of him.

Late that evening as I left my office, the wind blew strong. The cold front had settled hard upon the town. I bundled up and hurried to my car. As I sat back and reached for the emergency brake, I saw them.... a pair of well-worn brown work gloves neatly laid over the length of the handle. I picked them up and thought of my friend and wondered if his hands would stay warm that night without them. Then I remembered his words: 'If you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?' Today his gloves lie on my desk in my office. They help me to see the world and its people in a new way, and they help me remember those two hours with my unique friend and to pray for his ministry. 'See you in the New Jerusalem,' he said. Yes, Daniel, I know I will.... 'I shall pass this way but once. Therefore, any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again.'

Let's continue to pray for one another. God bless and have a nice day!

Longing for Home.

2009-10-26T10:47:00.008-05:00

After saying good bye here on earth to my sister in love, I have longed even more for home. For years I have quoted the old song "Heaven's Sounding Sweeter All the Time." The older we get and the more family and friends that we keep going home the more we long to be there also. Not counting the fact that Our Blessed Savior is there waiting for us too.

For the past eighteen months or more, we have several of our family and friends go home to heaven. I have had a couple of aunts, my best friend's son, my sis in love's father, my grandmother, some friends and acquaintances, and now my dear sis in love. This happened so quickly no one had time to adjust to the fact that she had cancer much less that she was dying. However, I believe that God was merciful in that. She did not have to suffer with a long battle with dealing with this horrible disease. God did heal her by taking her home.

Her funeral was amazing. My brother and Dad did the funeral. Her brother and Dad did the graveside. My Dad was her pastor for the last 25 years. However my brother is the one who gave the message, he preached on the everlasting arms of God from Deuteronomy 33:26-27. The songs that were sung were not sad. "Until Then" was sang and some of the congregation joined in on the chorus. At the grave side everyone sang "What A Day That Will Be." I think she would have been pleased and I believe that God was.

We were all worn out especially my brother and his children. Please continue to pray for them as they try to adjust to life without a wife and a mother in their home. I know that it has affected me more than I thought it would so I can not imagine what they are going through.

One blessed day we will all be at home together. The circle will not be broken, the family will all be together for the first time ever. And we will worship at the feet of our Savior. We have a sibling that we have never seen over there. There are grandchildren that never took their first breath or if they did it wasn't for long. And can you imagine the extended family of God from Adam & Eve on down to very the last brother or sister to become His child. What A Glorious Day That Will Be!!!!

In honor of my dear Sister In Love

2009-10-21T16:58:00.003-05:00

My Dear Sister in Love went home this morning. She had a brief battle with cancer. She leaves behind a grieving husband and 2 daughters and a son. She is standing in the presence of the KING.

If You Could See Me Now

If You Could See Me Now
(Kim Noblitt)

Our prayers have all been answered. I finally arrived.
The healing that had been delayed has now been realized.
No one's in a hurry. There's no schedule to keep.
We're all enjoying Jesus, just sitting at His feet.

Cho: If you could see me now, I'm walking streets of gold.
   If you could see me now, I'm standing strong and whole.
   If you could see me now, you'd know I've seen His face.
   If you could see me now, you'd know the pain is erased.
   You wouldn't want me to ever leave this place,
   If you could only see me now.

My light and temporary trials have worked out for my good,
To know it brought Him glory when I misunderstood.
Though we've had our sorrows, they can never compare.
What Jesus has in store for us, no language can share. (Chorus twice)

You wouldn't want me to ever leave this perfect place
If you could only see me now
If you could see me now
If you could only see me now

We All Want To Know

2009-09-18T21:18:00.007-05:00

I would like to share a poem with you that was given to my husband years ago when he was diagnosed with leukemia. My sister in law framed it and gave it to him. Now she has been diagnosed with stage IV cancer. Please keep her in your prayers.

We All Want To Know

that we are cared for and that some one understands. God does care about our feelings. He is sensitive to our losses, our sorrows, our anxieties. God is the God of love and hope, seeking to lift us above our difficulties, a us and strengthening us. When we are the end of our rope, He enables us to hang on. When we are at a loss and cannot understand why. He gives hope and assurance that He is walking with us. Always with us, never deserting us what a wonderful God! And I know our God will continue to show His love for you in special ways, supplying your needs, helping you over rough spots, and blessing you beyond expectation. God is that wonderful and He loves you that much!

update

2009-09-14T21:28:00.002-05:00

This past week has been very busy. Labor was spent preparing lunch and taking to my son's and prepared them some homemade ice cream to have later. Tuesday through Thursday I spent taking my older friend to see her different doctors. She is 87 and such a joy to be with. On Friday evening we had a rehearsal dinner for my nieces wedding.

Saturday was the big day. Her wedding was beautiful it was held outside at my parents. Beautiful reception after-wards. I helped to direct the wedding and then I helped serve. I was worn out Saturday night. My niece asked my husband to shoot fireworks for her wedding and he and the boys gave her a beautiful show. One of my cousins from S.C. said so " this is how you do a wedding in Tennessee". She a band playing good "clean" country music. Her brother and his girl friend sang Johnny Cash & June Carter songs. We had a wonderful time.

Please pray for the mother of my niece. She definitely has liver cancer. The doctors still do not know the primary site. The doctors are going to biopsy the lungs.
Pray for my Mom. She is still dealing with a lot of pain. We will be talking with the doctors next week about a pain pump.

I Believe

2009-09-05T13:17:00.004-05:00

I saw this today and thought I would share it. Hope you enjoy.

A Birth Certificate shows that we were born.

A Death Certificate shows that we died.
Pictures show that we lived!
Have a seat . .. . Relax . . . And read this slowly.

I Believe...
That just because two people argue,
doesn't mean they don't love each other..
And just because they don't argue,
doesn't mean they do love each other.

I Believe...
That we don't have to change friends if
we understand that friends change.

I Believe...
That no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in
a while and you must forgive them for that.

I Believe...
That true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance.
Same goes for true love.

I Believe...
That you can do something in an instant
that will give you heartache for life.

I Believe...
That it's taking me a long time
to become the person I want to be.

I Believe...
That you should always leave loved ones with
loving words. It may be the last time you see them.

I Believe...
That you can keep going long after you think you can't.

I Believe...
That we are responsible for what
we do, no matter how we feel.

I Believe...
That either you control your attitude or it controls you.

I Believe...
That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be
done, regardless of the consequences.

I Believe...
That money is a lousy way of keeping score.

I Believe...
That my best friend and I can do anything, or nothing, and have the best
time.

I Believe...
That sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down, will be
the ones to help you get back up.

I Believe...
That sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry,
but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.

I Believe...
That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had,
and what you've learned from them.....and less to do with how many birthdays
you've celebrated.

I Believe...
That it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others..
Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself.

I Believe...
That no matter how bad your heart is broken the world doesn't stop for your
grief.

I Believe...
That our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are,
but we are responsible for who we become.

I Believe...
That you shouldn't be so eager to find
out a secret. It could change your life Forever.

I Believe...
Two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally
different.

I Believe...
That your life can be changed in a matter of
hours by people who don't even know you.

I Believe...
That even when you think you have no more to give, if
a friend cries out to you........you will find the strength to help.

I Believe...
That credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being
I saw this today and thought I would share.

I Believe...
That the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon.

I Believe...
That you should send this to all of the people that you believe in.
I just did.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything;
They just make the most of everything.
Thank you God for all the wonderful people who help us throughout the
journey of life.

PRAYERS ARE NEEDED

2009-09-03T18:41:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,
Sorry if you came by to visit my blog and all you saw was PRAYERS ARE NEEDED. I didn't get a chance to finish my post. My sister in law was informed yesterday that she might have cancer. Her liver is enlarged and has a mass. The doctors feel that her breast may be the primary site. She had biopsies done today but will not get the results until Sept.14th. She has been battling health issues for awhile now. This is very upsetting for our family.

Their daughter is getting married next Saturday, Sept 12th. So we are all looking forward to this time of celebration. At least maybe their minds will be busy with preparations and not so much waiting on tests. Pray for good weather also as this is to be an outside wedding at my parents place.

Remember my Mom as she continues to recover from her stroke. Pray that my husband and I can minister to my brother and his wife as we have been through the diagnosis of cancer 11 yrs ago. We can testify to the Grace of God in our lives.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulations the we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort which you are comforted by God." 2 Corinthians 1:3

Tears of the Saints

2009-08-29T18:38:00.003-05:00

This video really struck a chord with me. Just think of how many people in the world do not know Jesus. Have we done all we can to reach them? I think not. This is so convicting.

Heaven's Grocery Store

2009-08-12T20:05:00.001-05:00

HEAVEN'S GROCERY STORE

As I was walking down life's
highway many years ago
I came upon a sign that read

Heavens Grocery Store.

When I got a little closer
the doors swung open wide
And when I came to myself
I was standing inside.

I saw a host of angels.
They were standing everywhere
One handed me a basket and said
"My child shop with care."

Everything a human needed
was in that grocery store
And what you could not carry
you could come back for more.

First I got some Patience.
Love was in that same row.
Further down was Understanding,
you need that everywhere you go.

I got a box or two of Wisdom
and Faith a bag or two.
And Charity of course
would need some of that too.

I couldn't miss the Holy Ghost
it was all over the place.
And then some Strength and Courage
to help me run this race.

My basket was getting full but
I remembered I needed Grace,
And then I chose Salvation for
Salvation was for free
I tried to get enough of that
to do for you and me.

Then I started to the counter
to pay my grocery bill,
For I thought I had everything
to do the Masters will.

As I went up the aisle I saw
Prayer and put that in,
For I knew when I stepped outside
I would run into sin.

Peace and Joy were plentiful,
the last things on the shelf.
Song and Praise were hanging near
so I just helped myself.

Then I said to the angel
"How much do I owe?"
He smiled and said
"Just take them everywhere you go."

Again I asked "Really now,
how much do I owe?"
"My child " he said,
"God paid your bill a long, long time ago."

Anonymous

Update again.

2009-08-11T15:57:00.004-05:00

I haven't forgotten about you . I have just been busy. Mother is back home and seems to recovering well. She has had some issues with panic attacks. She does not like to be left alone. She is still trying to remember things that happened in the hospital. She doesn't remember much of anything of that first week in the hospital. She was in the hospital for 10 days. She has home health coming to help with some physical therapy. She doesn't seem to have any physical problems from the stroke and we are so thankful for that. Thank you to all who have prayed for my family.

My husband, my son and daughter-in-law went to sell somethings in 127 yard sale. We still own a place up near Jamestown. My son did pretty well. I only sold one item. We needed to go up there anyway to pay the man who takes care of the place for us. We are putting this place up for sale. If anyone is interested in a 3 bedroom brick home, in the Clarkrange, TN area feel free to contact me. It has a full basement.

Update on My Mother

2009-08-03T16:09:00.004-05:00

Mother is doing so much better today. She has had a very rough week and a half. Saturday, she was very weak and did not seem anywhere near herself. Sunday, when my husband and I went to see her, she was asleep. She had quite a bit of company before we got there. Reports were that she was still very weak.

On Wednesday morning of last week, Dad called from the hospital to tell me that he was in ER. Turn out that he was just exhausted and stressed out. The hospital has had a sitter sitting with Mom since none of us are able to stay 24/7. My brothers work, my sisters-in-laws have health issues also. With my MS, I can't stay very long before I am worn out. I was in the bed most of Friday.

This morning I received a call from the hospital. My youngest brother was on the phone. He told me that he had someone who wanted to talk to me. I knew then that it would be Mother. When she was put on the phone she said "Hey, Girl". That was wonderful to hear. Her voice sounded clear and strong. When I took Dad to see her later she looks really good. She will be going to rehab tomorrow, Lord willing. Please continue to pray for her and our family.

Update

2009-07-29T19:17:00.003-05:00

Just a quick update. Mother has been moved out into a room. She will be having some physical therapy tomorrow. She also has one more test to be done. The doctor has still not found the source for the stroke. She is still somewhat confused which I believe maybe from some of the medication. She may get to come home Friday. Thanks for your prayers.

Good news

2009-07-28T15:42:00.003-05:00

My husband went for his biannual check-up today with his oncologist. Everything was normal and he had lost 9 lbs. We are so thankful for the Lord's blessings in continuing to give hubs good health. Over 11 yrs ago, the doctors only gave him 4-7 yrs to live. God has been so gracious.

The doctor wants to schedule another Bone Marrow biopsy in January. This will the first one in three yrs. Blake hates to go through these biopsies and has been so thankful that he hasn't to have one in all this time. Before this it was every 6 mos. then every year. God's grace has been sufficient through all of this and I know that it will continue to be.

Continue to keep my mother in your prayers. She is still not doing well. Pray for SIL. She will be having some testing done in the morning. Pray for the strength of my family as we continue to take care of Mother.

Prayer Request

2009-07-27T16:04:00.002-05:00

Friends , I come to you once again requesting prayer for my Mother. Saturday evening Mother had a stroke. She seems to be suffering no ill effects so far. The doctors haven't been able to do all the tests that need be done.
Sunday night and this morning she was in good spirits. Today at the lunch time visitation she was in tremendous pain and very agitated. When she had the stroke, she was cut cold turkey off all of her pain medications. She can't be on pain medications while the doctors are still trying to determine what is going on with the brain. Please be in prayer for her and the family as we try to take care of her. She will be in Intensive Care for a few more days.

Blue Roses

2009-07-22T10:25:00.006-05:00

This was sent to me in an email by my uncle. I thought it was very good so I decided to share it with you. How many blue roses do you know or have you met? I know a few and have met several. They are so precious.

Blue Roses
Why do I always have to be the one that starts to do laundry and there's no
detergent? Well, I guess it was time for me to do my store run, which
included light bulbs, paper towels, trash bags and Clorox. So off I go.

I scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies, and headed for the
checkout counter only to be blocked in the narrow aisle by a young man that
appeared to be about sixteen-years-old. I wasn't in a hurry, so I patiently
waited for the boy to realize that I was there. This was when he waved his
hands excitedly in the air and declared in a loud voice, "Mommy, I'm over
here."

It was obvious now, he was mentally challenged, and also startled as he
turned and saw me standing so close to him, waiting to squeeze by. His
eyes widened and surprise exploded on his face as I said, "Hey Buddy,
what's your name?"

"My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my mother," he responded proudly.
"Wow," I said, "that's a cool name; I wish my name was Denny, but my name
is Hal."

"Hal, like Halloween?" he asked.

"Yes," I answered. "How old are you Denny?"

"How old am I now, Mommy?" he asked his mother as she slowly came over from
the next aisle. "You're fifteen-years-old Denny; now be a good boy and let
the man pass by."

I acknowledged her and continued to talk to Denny for several more minutes
about summer, bicycles and school. I watched his brown eyes dance with
excitement because he was the center of someone's attention. He then
abruptly turned and headed toward the toy section.

Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked me for taking the
time to talk with her son. She told me that most people wouldn't even look
at him, much less talk to him. I told her that it was my pleasure and then
I said something I have no idea where it came from, other than by the
prompting of the Holy Spirit.

I told her that there are plenty of red, yellow and pink roses in God's
garden, however, "Blue Roses" are very rare and should be appreciated for
their beauty and distinctiveness. You see, Denny is a Blue Rose and if
someone doesn't stop and smell that rose with their heart and touch that
rose with their kindness, then they've missed a blessing from God.

She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her eye she asked, "Who
are you?"

Without thinking I said, "Oh, I'm probably just a dandelion but I sure love
living in God's garden."

Please the next time you see a BLUE ROSE don't turn your head and walk off,
take the time to smile and say Hello. Because by the grace of GOD this
mother could be you. This could be your child, grandchild, niece, nephew.
What a difference a moment can mean to that person or their family.

From an old dandelion.

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.
Leave the rest to God.

Jesus Loves Me for Seniors

2009-07-14T13:05:00.002-05:00

JESUS LOVES ME

Jesus loves me, this I know,
Though my hair is white as snow.
Though my sight is growing dim,
Still He bids me trust in Him.

(CHORUS)

YES, JESUS LOVES ME... YES, JESUS LOVES ME...
YES, JESUS LOVES ME FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.

Though my steps are oh, so slow,
With my hand in His I'll go.
On through life, let come what may,
He'll be there to lead the way.

(CHORUS)

Though I am no longer young,
I have much which He's begun.
Let me serve Christ with a smile,
Go with others the extra mile.

(CHORUS)

When the nights are dark and long,
In my heart He puts a song.
Telling me in words so clear,
"Have no fear, for I am near."

(CHORUS)

When my work on earth is done,
And life's victories have been won.
He will take me home above,
Then I'll understand His love.

(CHORUS)

I love Jesus, does he know?
Have I ever told Him so?
Jesus loves to hear me say,
That I love Him every day.

The Touch of the Master's Hand

2009-07-13T19:44:00.011-05:00

This evening my Dad called to ask if I had a copy of the poem "The Touch of the Master's Hand". A very good friend of his had died yesterday evening. He was 90 yrs old. This friend had played the violin for years. However, this friend did not know Jesus as his Savior. One week ago on Sunday evening, he asked the Savior to save him.

My Dad has been asked by the family to read this poem at his funeral tomorrow. Pray for the family and rejoice that there is one more child of God that is heaven. To the right is a picture of my Dad's friend. His name is Clint Kilgore.

We all need the touch of the Master's hand ( his nail scarred hand) just as Mr. Kilgore did. For years he had relied on his church membership to get him to heaven. But for the last couple of weeks he had dreamed about going to heaven and not getting in. He "was introduced to The Gate. Jesus said in John 14:6 " I am the Way, the Truth , and the Life, no man cometh to the Father except by me." I pray that if any of you don't know Jesus as your Savior that you will soon come to know Him.

The Touch of the Master's Hand

The Touch of the Master's Hand

It was battered and scarred,
And the auctioneer thought it
hardly worth his while
To waste his time on the old violin,
but he held it up with a smile.

"What am I bid, good people", he cried,
"Who starts the bidding for me?"
"One dollar, one dollar, Do I hear two?"
"Two dollars, who makes it three?"
"Three dollars once, three dollars twice, going for three,"

But, No,
From the room far back a gray bearded man
Came forward and picked up the bow,
Then wiping the dust from the old violin
And tightening up the strings,
He played a melody, pure and sweet
As sweet as the angel sings.

The music ceased and the auctioneer
With a voice that was quiet and low,
Said "What now am I bid for this old violin?"
As he held it aloft with its' bow.

"One thousand, one thousand, Do I hear two?"
"Two thousand, Who makes it three?"
"Three thousand once, three thousand twice,
Going and gone", said he.

The audience cheered,
But some of them cried,
"We just don't understand."
"What changed its' worth?"
Swift came the reply.
"The Touch of the Masters Hand."

And many a man with life out of tune
All battered with bourbon and gin
Is auctioned cheap to a thoughtless crowd
Much like that old violin

A mess of pottage, a glass of wine,
A game and he travels on.
He is going once, he is going twice,
He is going and almost gone.

But the Master comes,
And the foolish crowd never can quite understand,
The worth of a soul and the change that is wrought
By the Touch of the Masters' Hand.

Myra Brooks Welch

2009-07-06T13:45:00.015-05:00

This is a verse in the passage of Scripture in Matthew 6 that I claimed when my husband first started his own business. It was a scary time for me. We were moving 240 miles away. We were leaving the security of a regular paycheck. We were leaving friends and church that I loved. We had 2 small children. Our oldest was four. Our youngest was 10 weeks old. I read this passage and claimed the promises there. I can say that we have always been fed and clothed and have not went lacking. God's grace is sufficient. That was nearly 22 years ago. I still claim these promises.

Call to Fall

2009-07-04T22:00:00.000-05:00

July 5th is National Call to Fall. We have been asked to fall on our knees and faces to seek God that He may heal our land and bring Revival to our Country. Join me and others in prayer today for America.

Independence Day

2009-07-04T01:45:00.002-05:00

Happy Independence Day!

Thanking God for His rich and bounteous blessings on the USA. Thanking all the men and women now and in the past who fight for and have fought for this blessed freedom we enjoy. Before this day is over, will you join me in Thanking God for the privilege of living in the United States of America. We may not always agree with everything that is going on in this country but I am still proud to be an American. I hope you are too.

puppies in spring

2009-07-03T20:19:00.006-05:00

Please mute the play list.

30th Wedding Anniversary

2009-06-29T23:00:00.001-05:00

Today, my husband and I are celebrating our 30th Wedding Anniversary. I thank God for my precious husband. We have been through many ups and downs but God has been faithful through all of it.
We have had for better and for worse. We have had health and sickness. We have had some richer and poorer times. But we have had each other and the help of the Lord to go through each of the seasons that come into our lives. I pray that we have many more years together.

God's Chisel

2009-06-27T20:37:00.004-05:00

This video is based on Ephesians 2:10 "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
I pray that you are encouraged by it.

Root of All Evil

2009-06-24T16:47:00.003-05:00

What is the root of all evil? The Bible plainly tell us that the love of money is the root of all evil. It doesn't say that money is but that the love of money is. 1 Timothy 6:10 You may say that you don't love money. But do you love the things that money can provide: Clothes, cars, houses, vacations, etc. ? My thing is the security that money provides. My family lives a modest lifestyle.
However living week to week. Not even paycheck to paycheck because when you are self-employed you can't on a paycheck. You learn to live by faith. Sometimes my faith is stronger than others. I admit this one area that I struggle in. When things are really tight. I get anxious. I know that God's Word tells me to "Cast on all my care upon Him for He cares for me." 1 Peter 5:7.
God teaches me this over and over again. I remember when we first started in business 22 yrs ago. God gave me the Scripture in Matthew 6 that if He takes care of the lilies of the field and the birds of the air , He will take care of me . Friends, He has not failed to do so. So why do I let things like money or the lack thereof bother me? My God is faithful.
I saw this video today. I thought you might enjoy it and just see how Satan uses money to discourage us.

one of those days

2009-06-16T13:40:00.003-05:00

It has been one of those days. You know the kind. The ones where you can't seem to get anything done, you have constant worries on your mind, you need to be in several places at once. I had to get up early this morning get myself ready and leave to go get my mother ready to take her to the doctor. When I got there she was still in the bed. We had 45 minutes before time to leave.

Mother is not fast like she once was. The pain that she is in constantly, has slowed her down. I didn't know if I could get her ready to leave in time or not. We made it. Taking her & my Dad to the doctors is an ordeal in itself. They just don't understand things like they once did. It is hard to get them to understand and keep them from upsetting the doctor. We are looking for a new pain management doctor. Today we saw the family physician who does not deal with pain management. However, to get a new pain management physician we need a referral from him.

I need to take care of my parents. I need to take care of things here at home. I need to keep things in balance. I NEED to lean on Jesus. My friend Marsha had a wonderful post at her place today about anxiety. You might like to visit her blog.

Worshipful Sunday

2009-06-13T23:00:00.003-05:00

Worship with me as celebrate the fact that Jesus as promised never to leave us or forsake us.
Hebrews 13:5, Deuteronomy 31:6

update on my week

2009-06-13T16:15:00.004-05:00

This past week has been rather hectic for me. Mother was back in the hospital again. We took her back to ER on Wednesday afternoon. Her meds had her all confused again. I knew when I saw her on Tuesday night that things were not right. My husband and son and his wife also spent sometime with her.

The doctors at ER suggested putting mother in a nursing home short term for some physical therapy and to adjust her medication. Her pain management doctor kept telling us it was not the meds that were causing the confusion. He was even suggesting that Mother was suffering from dementia. My Dad, brothers and I were facing some hard decisions on Wednesday night. We did not want to put Mother in a nursing home but if that was what was best for her then we agreed to it. It was so hard to tell Mother that we might have to put her a nursing home even for a short while.

Thankfully,we did not have to resort to that. God sent us a wonderful doctor in to take care of her during her stay in the hospital, these doctors are called hospitalists. She took one look at the medications that Mother was on and was pretty sure that it was the medications causing the problems. She took her off the main one that we thought was causing the problem by midnight Mother was more coherent.

We tried to get her to a couple of rehab places for some physical therapy but she was in too good of shape for them to accept her. So she was sent home the next day with some equipment for help around the home. Home health care will be coming out supervising the meds for awhile and giving physical therapy.

I very thankful that Mother did not have to go into a nursing home at this time. I kept thinking to myself I didn't let my husband's Grandmother go into a nursing home but I am going to let my own mother. How can I do that? What kind of daughter am I? The answer to that question is one who knows her limitations. When I took care of my husband's grandmother was over 4 years ago. It nearly did me in. God taught me so much in taking care of her. But my health is worse now than then. I have a husband who needs me. His health is not good either. I will take care of my parents the best I can. Unfortunately, it may mean a nursing home I pray not.

Pray for my son, he is having some problems with his eyes. His eyes are getting inflamed
from wearing his contacts so much. He is looking into having Lasik eye surgery. My sister in law is having some problems that I can't into on here but she definitely needs prayer.
Pray that God continues to give me strength and energy. With my MS, I get fatigued real easily in the heat of the summer. Thankfully, it hasn't been bad at all so far this summer for me.

Blessings to all of my dear friends
Linda

A Strong Tower

2009-06-07T17:29:00.003-05:00

Worshipful Sunday

2009-06-06T21:24:00.004-05:00

Stand in awe of God's Amazing Grace.

New Update on Mother

2009-06-02T23:55:00.009-05:00

We spent yesterday afternoon and evening in the ER with Mother again. Dad called yesterday right after lunch very concerned with how much Mother was sleeping and the fact when she was awake she was very confused. I asked him to tell what medications she was taking. When he finally read them to me I became alarmed. \

I jumped into my car and called my friend who is a home health care nurse to ask her opinion. Thankfully she was in the area and met me at my parents house. She assessed Mother and advised us to take ER for further assessment.

Thankfully everything checked out okay but her medications were adjusted until she goes back for her follow up appointment. Her medications had been changed during her hospital stay. She came home with new prescriptions. She was taking the new prescriptions plus taking her old ones that she had been taking prior to her hospital stay. If this had continued for much longer, she would not be here. Thank you dear friends for your prayers. I thank God for His continued watch care over my family.

Update on My Mother

2009-06-02T07:58:00.006-05:00

I would like to you on Mother. She came home on Friday. The doctors say that there is nothing that can be done for her back. Her back has too damage to benefit from surgery or from rehabilitation. She will continue with her pain management doctor. I believe that he may need to adjust her medication some more. Because when I saw her yesterday. she was rather loopy more than when she was in the hospital.
I took her a walker and a shower chair that we used with my husband's grandmother when we took care of her. Of course my mother is very reluctant to use them. Please continue your prayers for her.

Worshipful Sunday

2009-05-30T21:54:00.005-05:00

Please mute the music on the play list on the side. Worship with me today as we Praise our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Sing your Life Song.

Bed of Roses

2009-05-30T18:54:00.002-05:00

What Temperament Are You?

2009-05-30T17:03:00.004-05:00

My friend Michele posted this quiz on her blog today. I thought that it was fun and would share it with you.I have always tried to figure out my temperament.Some good points, some not. I goofed and had to come back and edit. I first posted that this was on her sister's Marsha's blog. I am sorry.

You Have a Phlegmatic Temperament

Mild mannered and laid back, you take life at a slow pace.

You are very consistent - both in emotions and actions.

You tend to absorb set backs easily. You are cool and collected.

It is difficult to offend you. You can remain composed and unemotional.

You are a great friend and lover. You don't demand much of others.

While you are quiet, you have a subtle wit that your friends know well.

At your worst, you are lazy and unwilling to work at anything.

You often get stuck in a rut, without aspirations or dreams.

You can get too dependent on others, setting yourself up for abandonment.

What Temperament Are You?

2009-05-28T18:20:00.000-05:00

Shine the Light

2009-05-27T20:28:00.001-05:00

This is my Desire.

2009-05-27T20:07:00.007-05:00

One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in His pavilion in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide me; He shall set me up upon a rock. Psalm 27:4&5

The only thing I don't like about this video is the picture with Christ still on the cross. The last couple of days visiting my Mother in the hospital and seeing the crosses with Jesus still hanging in every little corner, instead of getting angry i just thanked God that Jesus didn't stay dead or on the cross. I praised Him for the fact that Jesus Christ was buried and rose again on the third day. Because of this we have Hope.

Out of the Loop

2009-05-26T19:07:00.007-05:00

I have been having problems being able to connect to the Internet. I have had the cable guys out 3 different times in the last week and twice today. They finally narrowed down the problem to my browser "Internet Explorer". So now I have changed my browser to "Mozilla Firefox". I am still learning the ropes. I am behind on reading your blogs and catching up on your news.

Please pray for my mother. She was admitted to the hospital this morning. She has had chronic back pain for 30 yrs. It has gotten much worse the last few years. It has gotten unbearable in the last few days. Dad took her to ER yesterday and she didn't get much relief. He & I took her back this morning to ER. Most of the discs in her back are ruptured. She may be facing surgery or least rehabilitation. Pray that the Lord gives the Drs. wisdom and guidance in how to take care of her.

Prayers for Bradley

2009-05-20T17:49:00.007-05:00

My heart is no longer breaking. I miss Bradley very much but I am trusting God for his care. I will always love this precious little boy but he is not my grandson. The above picture was taken the day the results from the paternity test came back. My son has chosen to severe this relationship so I must follow suit. I pray for him daily and trust God for his future. God has promised to be a helper to the fatherless. Here are a few verses that I am claiming for Bradley.

Psalm 10:14 "...thou art the helper of the fatherless."

Psalm 10:18 " To do justice (vindicate) the fatherless and the oppressed. That the the man of the earth may oppress no more."

Psalm 68:5 " A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation."

Psalm 146:9 " The Lord preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and the widow:but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down."

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the thoughts I that I think towards you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope."

If God chooses to use me to help Bradley, I am willing. Pray for me that God gives me discernment. Pray for Bradley and his mom that God will lead in their lives and that they will follow.

Thank you my dear friends.

My Heart is Breaking.

2009-05-14T18:12:00.004-05:00

Today my heart was broken. Not the first time and I am sure it won't be the last. Today I found out the child that I have thought may be my grandchild, isn't. We knew that there was possibilty that he wasn't but we have loved him and claimed him as if he was.

When the DNA results arrived today. There is 0% chance of this child being my son's. He didn't marry the mother because he wasn't waiting for the results of this test. However he has been a good father. Bradley could not have asked for better. They were making plans to be a family. We are all so hurt. Not just our family but her family as well. We covet your prayers as try discern how to go forward from here.

God is Gracious

2009-05-12T23:34:00.007-05:00

Matthew 18:10.
"Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven."

I am thankful this evening for God's watch care for us. This evening what a source of major irritation for my son's girlfriend was in hind sight a blessing.

She called me around 6 this evening upset because she was stranded. Her car had just quit on her. She had already had a rough day. Her financial aid at college hasn't been verified for the summer semester. Classes start tomorrow.

The job that she left on maternity leave is no longer available for her. Because for 3 months prior to Bradley's birth she was put on bed rest, the supervisor terminate her with the promise of her job back when her Dr. released her for work again. Human Resources for the company is blocking the rehire.

Then on top of it all her car breaks down. She had been to a friend's home to pick up some books for the classes she plans on taking. Coming back to pick up Bradley she was ready to head down the mountain. When she decided to turn on the road that would take her out to see the mobile home that my son and she are remodeling. As soon as she turned her car lost power and died. If she had not turned within just a few hundred feet she would have been headed down the steep part of the mountain.

God was gracious in His timing and protection. She could have been hurt very badly or killed. There was accident on this same mountain Monday evening leaving 6 people seriously injured.

The job situation is a matter of prayer. That job may not be the one God wants for her now. It was in a very dangerous part of the city. Plus the fact of going to college and being a young mother is taxing enough. God maybe saying that is just too much right now.

She believes the financial aide issue will soon be resolved. God will take care of everything in His time. Pray for her . I praise God for His watch care over all of us.

Blessings

Linda

The Lord is My Strength

2009-05-11T17:30:00.000-05:00

My Roses

2009-05-11T16:39:00.004-05:00

I thought I would share a picture of the roses given to me by oldest for Mothers Day. He gave me three roses. He didn't say but I am sure that the three roses represented my three sons. (Do any of you remember the old tv show "My Three Sons"?)

I have given birth to three sons. Most people know about two of them but most don't know about the third. I have two sons living on earth. Then I have one who lives in heaven with Our Heavenly Father. The 29th of this month is his birthday. He would be 23. He was born 11 weeks early and lived for only 11 hours.

I always think of him every day. But I think of him more so at this time of year. Time has made this easier. Time does help to heal things. Now I just look forward to the time when I shall see him in heaven.

Thank the Lord for your children because they are a gift from God. But I learned very early that God just loans those children for awhile. He has given us such a huge responsabilty as mothers. To teach our children about Him and His ways.

"You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up." Deut. 6:8

I pray that you all had a wonderful Mother's Day. I did. My sons came with their families and we had wonderful time together.

Blessings

Linda

Bluebirds in the morning

2009-05-11T04:23:00.013-05:00

One morning a couple of weeks ago as I was sitting in my chair with my laptop, I kept hearing this strange sound at the den door. I looked up it was a couple of blue birds flying into the door. When hubby came through, I asked him if something was after the bluebirds. He checked and said no.

This has become a habit with the birds every morning. What are they fascinated with? The answer their own image. The den door leads on to the deck. Beside the door on the outside is a full length mirror. I don't remember why hubby put it there but he did. The bluebirds have a time playing there every morning.

I have gotten several pictures but I have had to take them through the bay window. So the pics are necessarily the best. I even made a video of them. I have really enjoyed the show and the blessing of watching them. I thought you might enjoy seeing them also.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T23:00:00.001-05:00

"Honor thy Father and Mother; which is the first commandment with promise; that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth." Ephesians 6:2&3

In Honor of Mother's Everywhere.

What Kind of Breakfast Are You

2009-05-09T02:04:00.004-05:00

You Are Eggs

Traditional and totally grown up, you truly believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

You don't skimp on nutrition or quality. You're likely to take the time to make yourself a decent meal each morning.

You're a great cook, even if you aren't a showy one. You can make a feast out of simple ingredients.

The food you eat may be basic, but you prefer to think of it as classic.

What Kind of Breakfast Are You?

This is so funny because eggs are usually the last thing I would choose for my breakfast. I only eat them occasionally and then I prefer them scrambled. I also want to eat them as soon as you take them out of the pan. Say grace before hand because I want them hot.

I even order a chef's salad minus the egg. Good thing the owner of the sandwich shop in town likes me.

Breakfast is the one meal I rarely cook. Try out the quiz and see how you fare.

Update on prayer request.

2009-05-06T19:52:00.003-05:00

Beth has updated me about Christopher. The drs. say that he is taking the antibiotics well. The drs. believe that he will make it through this set back but that it will take time. Please continue to pray for the family.

Today was the 1st anniversary of my best friend Molly's son death. He was killed in a motorcycle accident last year. He was 21 years old. He and my youngest grew up together. She has had a very hard year. Pray for her please. She is the aunt of Beth.

A Mom's Overture

2009-05-06T06:15:00.006-05:00

"My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother." Proverbs 1:8 KJV

My paraphrase thinking about how my husband would say this to my sons;
Listen to me, son, you better do as your mom told you and don't you forget it. She loves you know and is just trying to help you.

"For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother." Proverbs 4:4

Think about the things that we are always telling our children. Is it just a bunch of orders? Or does a relationship with us and with their heavenly Father ever enter into our daily walk and talk with our children. I know that during the day to day grind we may overlook the things that should be of upmost important. What will your children remember about the things you have taught them? If your children are still small, make this time count. For it passes by so quickly.

Enjoy the following video. I know there were days that I felt like this video. I pray that it is not all my children remember. I pray that they remember that I tried to point them to Jesus and introduce them to Him.

Urgent Prayer Request.

2009-05-05T19:57:00.009-05:00

My friend Beth, who gave birth to a premature baby boy, a few weeks ago just text with an urgent request. The hospital called and told them to rush to the hospital. The baby Christopher has pneumonia and an infection in his blood.

I know that she is very upset. She has been having to travel back and forth to see the baby. He is a hospital a couple hours away so she has only been going every other day due to expenses.

Christopher was born at 28 weeks. I know that he still has a long way to go. Anytime you get a call from the hospital while your child is in the NICU it is very disturbing. Her aunt & I were just discussing this matter this morning about no news is good news. When you don't hear anything while from the doctors when they are the NICU, your child is doing okay. When doctors start calling then it is time to be concerned.

Beth is close to my heart because when she lost her mother at the age of 7, my husband and I seriously considered adopting her. God had other plans for Beth and for us but we still love her very much and keep in touch.

Why did God Create Grandmothers?

2009-05-04T13:22:00.003-05:00

In honor of this coming Mother's Day and my Grandmothers who have gone home to be with Jesus? I miss them so. They taught me the love of Jesus.

Worshipful Sunday

2009-05-02T23:00:00.002-05:00

"Let us therefor come boldly to throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16

Some days that is all you can pray is "Lord Have Mercy on Me".

Life is a Vapor

2009-05-02T16:55:00.007-05:00

..."For what is your life? It is but a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away." James 4:14

The words to the song in this video spoke to me. Enjoy.

This is My Father's World

2009-04-28T06:12:00.010-05:00

I would like to share some pictures that I have taken this spring. Don't you just love this time of year? I do! Just seeing all the glorious creation of our Creator.

The Bible tells us that just by seeing His glorious handiwork that we are without excuse. "For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse." Romans 1:20

Paul is telling us that just by seeing the things in the world that God created we should realize that Someone had to create this world. It did not just happen on its own. That this Someone is all powerful and all knowing. That you did not just happen to appear on this earth of your own accord. This earth has everything you need to sustain your life: water, air, availablity of food supply,the sun for warmth and the availablity of shelter. In addition to all of that He has given us beauty and other comforts.

When a person realizes this He should worship the Creator of all this. However there are people who would rather worship creation than the Creator. As you watch this video remember that Creator created these things for our enjoyment not for our worship. Worship the one who created this wonderful earth. I pray that you have accepted His most wonderful gift of all. The gift of Salvation. When God the Father sent His Son Jesus Christ to die for your sin. He was buried and rose again on the third day just for you and me.

Enjoy the video.

Worshipful Sunday

2009-04-26T11:26:00.004-05:00

Please mute the music on the side. Worship with me today and meditate on the deep, deep love of our Heavenly Father.

Til the Storm Passes By

2009-04-24T15:48:00.005-05:00

I was visiting my sis in loves blog . She had some awesome pictures posted from yesterday. We had several quick thunder storms move through yesterday afternoon as it so often happens in the spring.

Her pictures of the storm clouds moved me and made me think of the ole song "Til the Storm Passes By". I have always loved that song.

The above picture is from her blog. Visit her blog to see other beautiful pictures. She lives on the mountain and I live in the valley about 8 miles from one another. She is in the country and I am just outside of the city limits. I love it up on the mountain. I enjoy the peace and quite of being at their place. Here it always noisy. I live on busy state highway so there is a great deal of traffic. I just relax so whenever I am there.

Just think even in the midst of a storm we can relax. We are in the hands of our heavenly Father. He has everything under control. He will never leave us or forsake us. Which makes me think of another old hymn "Never Alone" . Am I showing my age or my roots? I don't care. I love most all gospel music as long as it honors and glorifies God and is Biblically correct with its doctrine.

Enjoy the video of an ole beloved gospel song.

Are You a Living Bible?

2009-04-23T17:43:00.005-05:00

Now this is the Living Bible:

His name is Bill. He has wild hair, wears a T-shirt with holes in it, jeans, and no shoes. This was literally his wardrobe for his entire four years of college.

He is brilliant. Kind of profound and very, very bright. He became a Christian while attending college. Across the street from the campus is a well-dressed, very conservative church. They want to develop a ministry to the students but are not sure how to go about it.

One day Bill decides to go there. He walks in with no shoes, jeans, his T-shirt, and wild hair.. The service has already started and so Bill starts down the aisle looking for a seat.The church is completely packed and he can't find a seat. By now, people are really looking a bit uncomfortable, but no one says anything.Bill gets closer and closer and closer to the pulpit, and when he realizes there are no seats, he just squats down right on the carpet.

By now the people are really uptight, and the tension in the air is thick.About this time, the minister realizes that from way at the back of the church, a deacon is slowly making his way toward Bill.

Now the deacon is in his eighties, has silver-gray hair, and a three-piece suit. A godly man, very elegant, very dignified, very courtly. He walks with a cane and, as he starts walking toward this boy, everyone is saying to themselves that you can't blame him for what he's going to do.

How can you expect a man of his age and of his background to understand some college kid on the floor? It takes a long time for the man to reach the boy.The church is utterly silent except for the clicking of the man's cane. All eyes are focused on him. You can't even hear anyone breathing. The minister can't even preach the sermon until the deacon does what he has to do.

And now they see this elderly man drop his cane on the floor. With great difficulty, he lowers himself and sits down next to Bill and worships with him so he won't be alone. Everyone chokes up with emotion. When the minister gains control, he says,'What I'm about to preach, you will never remember. What you have just seen, you will never forget.'

'Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some people will ever read!'

Anonymous

I had read this story years ago. It moved me then. A friend forwarded it to me in an email today. It had the same effect. I hope it does for you my friends. Don't judge a book by its cover. I pray that the world sees Jesus in me.

Blessings to you.

Linda

Worshipful Sunday

2009-04-18T23:00:00.003-05:00

Worship with me today. Have you ever had anyone say that these bad circumstances can't be of God? ... or why are these things happening to me. Yes, God loves us. He is a God of Love. But He does allow bad things to happen to us. Sometimes it happens with an invitation from Him. If you remember in the book of Job, Satan came before the Lord after roaming to and fro in the earth. God asked Satan if had considered His servant Job.

That bothered me for a very long time. It doesn't anymore. Remember Satan's reply "Does Job fear you for nought? Have you not made a hedge about him and about his house and about all that he has on every side?..."

Just think God has a hedge placed around you and me too. If he lowers that hedge it is for a reason. It may be for your life to be a witness to someone else, to show you who you really are, or to strengthen and deepen your walk with Christ. But be assured my friend there is a purpose if for no other than to glorify God. Read Deut. 8. It is one of my favorite chapters. I pray God lifts your spirit today

Train Station Music

2009-04-18T09:10:00.003-05:00

Watched this video this morning. Wouldn't it be lovely to see people come together like this all the time?

Sonshine

2009-04-17T15:49:00.004-05:00

Have you been enjoying the sunshine the last couple of days? Doesn't it just lift your spirits? It sure does mine. My oldest has been here at least a few hours every day this week since he is laid off for six weeks. He will not go back to work until June. He commented Monday that he was tired of the gloomy weather.

We all were tired of it. We were also tired of all the tornado warnings. Some of have been very close. One young man was killed Monday morning while sleeping in his bed. A tree fell into his bedroom. He was home for the Easter weekend from college. I felt so for this family. I could not imagine. Thinking that your son was safe at home in his own bed after probably worrying about him when he was not home and not knowing exactly where he was. I know that God is Sovereign over all things. Sometimes things like this are just hard to understand.

I am thankful even though we go through trials and tribulations that God is still faithful and we will come through on the other side. I know because He has seen me through some really hard circumstances and He has not failed me yet. At times I could not see past the bend in the road. Others I was not even sure there was a bend or even a road to follow but He always leads. He never leads to place where is He is not there. Remember He is leading not pushing us. If He is leading He is going ahead of us. If you get somewhere and God is not there then you were not following.

I have been in situations when I felt like I was all alone. Then I remember that He promised never to leave me or forsake me. Isn't that a precious promise. These situations most of the time are to teach to lean upon His everlasting arms. I love these everlasting arms don't you? Look up at the Sonshine. No I did not misspell it. When every thing seems dark and gloomy remember the Son is always shining.

Worshipful Sunday

2009-04-12T00:00:00.001-05:00

Worship with me on the Blessed Resurrection Morn.

Jesus Christ has Risen.

Sunday's Coming

2009-04-10T15:11:00.003-05:00

Praise God Sunday's Coming!!!!

The Lord Our Righteousness

2009-04-10T14:21:00.006-05:00

"Behold the days are coming says the Lord, That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; a King shall reign and prosper, and execute judgement and righteousness in the earth. In His days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell safely; Now this is His name by which He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS." Jeremiah 23:5&6

I am glad that Jesus is my righteousness. Because I know that I have no righteousness. That all of my righteousness is as filthy rags. I have been in a funk about this coming Easter Sunday. Don't get me wrong I love celebrating the Resurrection of our precious Lord and Savior. I know if it wasn't for the Resurrection we would have no hope.

But my husband and I have still not found a church home. We have visited a few places but have not made a decision about a place to serve. We had been visiting one place for awhile but felt like this was not the place. Last Sunday I was not well so we didn't attend anywhere. The Sunday before I went by myself. Yesterday my oldest asked where would be attending for Easter. I told him I wasn't sure. He and his wife usually attend with us for special occasions. They are not in church.

I hate the fact that I could not give him a specific place to meet us for worship. I would love to find a church home and hopefully my sons and their families would follow suit. It has been 8 months and it is very discouraging. The above passage was what the Lord led me to starting with the begining of the chapter. He gave a warning to shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of His pasture. This is what happened in our previous church. We had one beloved pastor who resigned because of pressure that he felt from certain members of the church.

Then we had a pastor come in who wound up scattering the sheep. The previous pastor came back to try and minister to a few remant of sheep battle weary and fatigued. However the church still wound up folding due circumstances that only God knows all the details. There are still some of us who are still hurting and feel so lost. No we know we have Savior. We just feel like we have lost true Christian fellowship and support. Pray for us that we find the place where God wants us to be and serve him. I feel like I have been wandering in the desert for a very long time. I do know that in the desert places is where you learn the most from our dear Lord.

Blessings to you on this Blessed Weekend.

P.S. We are under Tornado Watch as I type this.

update on Bradley

2009-04-07T13:41:00.004-05:00

I just received a phone call from Bradley's mother. Bradley went to the doctor today to see if he had gained any weight. Praise the Lord, he has gained a whole pound. Bradley now weighs 7 lbs. 4 oz.

I kept Bradley yesterday for his Mom to go and take care of some issues with college. She will be taking some classes this summer. She was accepted in the RN program. We are all so proud and glad for her. She just needed one more class this summer before the nursing classes start this fall.

I knew when I kept him yesterday that he had gained some weight. His little cheeks had filled out and his arms and legs didn't look so skinny. I am so thankful that he is growing. I know that he will be grown before we turn around good. It seems like yesterday that I was bringing his Daddy home. Where has all the time gone?

The picture is of Bradley and his Daddy just after his birth.

Worshipful Sunday

2009-04-05T00:17:00.008-05:00

Worship Our Savior with me on this glorious Palm Sunday. Because today we celebrate the fact that "Mercy Came Running". I have to say Amen and raise my hands to heaven in praise.

Company Girl Coffee

2009-04-03T16:47:00.007-05:00

a href="http://homesanctuary.typepad.com/rachelanne/">

This week has been very busy. I have had Drs. appts. for myself, grandson, and my friend who is 87 yrs young. Between the appointments and trying to keep the house at least halfway decent. I am worn out. I have enjoyed the week though.

I love spending time with my grandson, Bradley and his mom. My friend and I really enjoy each other's company. We had breakfast together this morning. She is leaving Sunday to spend a week or so with her grandson and her great granddaughter Caralee. She is so crazy about her. I believe grandchildren do that to you.

I attended Bible study Monday evening. We have doing Beth Moore's study of "Esther". I have really enjoyed it. We only have 2 more sessions. I really hate to see it come to an end. Nothing like studying God's Word with some Siesta's. Praying everyone has a blessed weekend.

Prayer request

2009-04-01T20:03:00.004-05:00

Please for my grandson Bradley. He has not gained any weight this past week. The doctor has added calories to his formula. This is the first time I have heard of 2 week old being put on cereal. He should have gained 6 oz. this past week. He goes back next week to see if he has gained.

Worshipful Sunday

2009-03-29T15:17:00.005-05:00

Worship with me for Jesus Reigns!

I do so need to be reminded that Jesus reigns and is in control over everything. He is Sovereign over all.

LWG Easter Give Away

2009-03-29T14:48:00.014-05:00

Our generous friends over at Laced with Grace are having an Easter Give Away to help celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Visit Laced with Grace to get more information about how to particpate.

Blessings Linda

Thankful Thursday

2009-03-26T08:23:00.004-05:00

Today is my first Thankful Thursday post. So first let me say I am thankful to a daughter of the King, ransomed by the Savior, and a servant of the Most High God.

I am also thankful for the safe of arrival of my first grandson Bradley last Wednesday night. He is so precious. I am so thankful that his mother is eager to let us be a part of his life. I spent most of the day Tuesday with him. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

I am also thankful to finally finished gathering all the tax information and taking it to the accountant yesterday. When you own a business, there is so much paper work. Every year I say I am not going to let get so bad. But alas, I procrastinate along with many interruptions.

Thankful for all my family and friends.

Always Remember

2009-03-25T19:57:00.004-05:00

A friend of mine on the internet named Bill posted this one day. I decided to share it with you. Those of you who suffer from chronically ill diseases, I hope you enjoy. Bill and I both suffer with MS. You may like to visit his site got ms.

Always Remember

No one can ruin your day without YOUR permission.
Most people will be about as happy as they decide to be.

Others can stop you temporarily, but only you can do it permanently.
Whatever you are willing to put up with is exactly what you will have.

Success stops when you do.
When your ship comes in, make sure you are willing to unload it.

You will never "have it all together".
Life is a journey, not a destination .. enjoy the trip!

The biggest lie on the planet is "When I get what I want I'll be happy."
The best way to escape your problem is to solve it.

I've learned that ultimately "takers" lose and "givers" win.
Life's precious moments don't have value unless they are shared.

If you don't start it's certain you won't arrive.
We often fear the thing we want the most.

He or she who laughs... lasts.
Yesterday was the deadline for all complaints.

Look for opportunities, not guarantees.
Life is what's coming, not what was.

Success is getting up one more time.
Now is the most interesting time of all.

When things go wrong, don't go with them.
There is not enough darkness in the entire world to put out the light of one small candle.

Your friend
Bill

What Part of Spring Are You?

2009-03-21T22:12:00.004-05:00

My friend Marsha posted this on her blog. I thought I would share. I do so love spring.

You Are Baseball Games

You like old fashioned things. You're one of those people who values tradition.

You enjoy a slow pace of life. You believe that life is all about enjoying every moment.

You love the changing of the seasons, and you look forward to what each season brings.

You are smart and a bit obsessive. You become very immersed in your interests.

What Part of Spring Are You?

Baby has arrived

2009-03-20T14:20:00.010-05:00

This has been an eventful week for my family. Our first grandchild made his entrance into the world Wednesday evening at 9:06 EDT. We are so proud of him Bradley Jackson H. is his name. He weighed 6 lb. 6 oz and measured 19 3/4 inches in length.

His mother was in labor for 21 hours. It felt like an eternity for all of us who were waiting with her. Those last 2 1/2 hours, the nurses kept telling her not to push because her Dr. was in an emergency. I felt so sorry for the poor little thing. I think I would have pushed anyways. Babies are born everyday without a doctor all over the world. However I am glad we do have access to drs. and medications and all the conveniences that the Lord has blessed us with. She was a real trooper.

Bradley is doing well and so is his Mom. They should be coming home later this afternoon. Everyone is wore out from such a long wait and we are all trying to recover but we are all so excited.

What does Your Name Mean

2009-03-15T15:29:00.003-05:00

My friend Michele had posted this on her blog. I thought it was fun. I thought I would share it with you. Notice how mine goes from one end of the spectrum to the other.

You Are Peaceful and Content

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.

You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.

Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.

You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.

You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.

You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.

You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

You are balanced, orderly, and organized. You like your ducks in a row.

You are powerful and competent, especially in the workplace.

People can see you as stubborn and headstrong. You definitely have a dominant personality.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.

You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.

You have the classic "Type A" personality.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Thy Grace Is Sufficient

Knowing Your Place

Who Am I

Happy New Year

White Christmas

Becky Kelley - Where's the Line to See Jesus - OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Halloween

This Far

Happy Fall

Recall Notice

Scars of Life

Would You Like Some Cake

God Bless America

Masks

Quilt Holes

Life is in the Dash

When Things Aren't Going as Planned

Hannah's Blessing

Cleaning the Attic

Allergies

Arise My Love

My Son

A fun Meme

I was tagged by my Sisnlove over on Jimsruby. I have been blessed with a wonderful sister in love. She is suffering with a sinus infection right now so please say a prayer for her.

Tag, your it!

We Have Snow

Happy New Year

We Made It Through Christmas Eve

What is Your Favorite Christmas Carol, Song or Hymn

Daniel's Gloves

Longing for Home.

In honor of my dear Sister In Love

If You Could See Me Now

We All Want To Know

update

I Believe

PRAYERS ARE NEEDED

Tears of the Saints

Heaven's Grocery Store

Update again.

Update on My Mother

Update

Good news

Prayer Request

Blue Roses

Jesus Loves Me for Seniors

The Touch of the Master's Hand

Call to Fall

Independence Day

puppies in spring

30th Wedding Anniversary

God's Chisel

Root of All Evil

one of those days

Worshipful Sunday

update on my week

A Strong Tower

Worshipful Sunday

New Update on Mother

Update on My Mother

Worshipful Sunday

Bed of Roses

What Temperament Are You?

Shine the Light

This is my Desire.

Out of the Loop

Prayers for Bradley

My Heart is Breaking.

God is Gracious

The Lord is My Strength

My Roses

Bluebirds in the morning

Happy Mother's Day

What Kind of Breakfast Are You

Update on prayer request.

A Mom's Overture

Urgent Prayer Request.

Why did God Create Grandmothers?

Worshipful Sunday