Texas and Respect For Our Soldiers!

In Texas they really do pull off the road and stop for funerals......nobody moves until the last car has gone by.

What follows is a message from Vicki Pierce about her nephew James' funeral (he was serving our country in Iraq): "I'm back, it was certainly a quick trip, but I have to also say it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. There is a lot to be said for growing up in a small town in Texas. The service itself was impressive with wonderful flowers and sprays, a portrait of James, his uniform and boots, his awards and ribbons. There was lots of military brass and an eloquent (though inappropriately longwinded) Baptist preacher. There were easily 1000 people at the service, filling the church sanctuary as well as the fellowship hall and spilling out into the parking lot. However, the most incredible thing was what happened following the service on the way to the cemetery. We went to our cars and drove to the cemetery escorted by at least 10 police cars with lights flashing and some other emergency vehicles, with Texas Rangers handling traffic. Everyone on the road who was not in the procession, pulled over, got out of their cars, and stood silently and respectfully, some put their hands over their hearts. When we turned off the highway suddenly there were teenage boys along both sides of the street about every 20! feet o r so, all holding large American flags on long flag poles, and again with their hands on their hearts. We thought at first it was the Boy Scouts or 4H club or something, but it continued ... for two and a half miles. Hundreds of young people, standing silently on the side of the road with flags. At one point we passed an elementary school, and all the children were outside, shoulder to shoulder holding flags . kindergartners, handicapped, teachers, staff, everyone. Some held signs of love and support. Then came teenage girls and younger boys, all holding flag! s. Then adults. Then families. All standing silently on the side of the road. No one spoke, not even the very young children. The military presence..at least two generals, a fist full of colonels, and representatives from every branch of the service, plus the color guard who attended James, and some who served with him . was very impressive and respectful, but the love and pride from this community who had lost one of their own was the most amazing thing I've ever been privileged to witness. I've attached some pictures, some are blurry (we were moving), but you can get a small idea of what this was like. Thanks so much for all the prayers and support."









GO USA and GOD BLESS ALL OF OUR SOLDIERS !



They Need Our Prayers
Prayer

"Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they

protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they

perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our

Lord and Savior. Amen."

Of all the gifts you could give a US Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine &others deployed in harm's way, Prayer is the very best one!

Urgent Prayer Request

Roger was the pianist for the Cathedral Quartet for many years. I have met him personally on several occasions. I was always impressed and deeply touched when he would just hand music over to my sister and her family, FREE OF CHARGE, once he realized they were missionaries. He has written some of the most beautiful songs to be sung!

Once at a Cathedral concert, at Word of Life, here in Florida, I let loose of my little Shane's hand. He was about 2 years old at the time. Well, that was a huge mistake. He shot off like a rocket after having been couped up in his car seat for a long ride to the Camp. I saw him heading straight for Roger and the Director of Word of Life, where they stood near the front of the auditorium deep in conversation! I didn't catch the little booger in time and -whoosh- right through Roger's legs he flew! I was running behind in hot pursuit!. Roger just rubbed the little tike's head after he passed through, then he glanced at me and chuckled out loud. I think he said something like, "What's he running for? We haven't even started singing yet!" I can't really remember. I was so embarrassed!

I've had a few more conversations with Roger over the years , when I wasn't red with embarrassment! He was always friendly and accessable. Once I mentioned that I had lost my Midnight Meditations CD on the way home from their last concert. I was going to buy a new one. He insisted I just take one! I really did argue no, that wouldn't be right, but he leaned over the table and stuck one in my diaper bag! I will always remember his acts of kindness.

In the last several years, he has been the pianist for Legacy Five Quartet. You can read more about Roger on his blog.

http://rogerbennett.typepad.com/roger_bennetts_midnight_m/

WRITTEN ON ROGER'S JOURNAL FROM DEBBIE BENNETT

March 08, 2007

Well, I hardly know what to write. It has surely been a long few days,weeks, etc., etc. I spoke to the teams of doctors this morning, and they have no new news since yesterday, really. I know there are other tests scheduled for today, and yesterday, they inserted a line and began dialysis. I hope this will help pull some toxins out of his body, and maybe that will jump start things.

The doctors still do not understand what is happening in his body. Besides the obvious infections, which I have described previously, there is still something unidentified that is not allowing him to heal. I have not been able to speak with him since Monday, and I never knew how many things I would want to ask him or talk to him about.

We are all holding up pretty well. Doug came down Tuesday night, and although it is terribly painful for him to see his only child in this state, he is bearing up. Chelsea and Jordan were able to be here on Sunday, so they had a couple of days where they could visit with him. Jordan had to fly back yesterday, and that was so hard. I didn't want to put him on that plane alone, and it was heartbreaking watching him say bye to his dad, not knowing what the future holds. I told him not to feel bad about leaving, since he was here when it really counted, and he is only a plane ride away, should he be needed again.

Chelsea was able to extend her visit, and can be here a few more days. My mom and dad are in Linden, TX right now to be with her Aunt Ora (who is the whole family's favorite) as she is dying. They asked if I needed them here, but I told them to stay with Aunt Ora, as there is little to be done here right now. If the tests that are run in the next few days do not give us more direction, there may be little that can be done for Roger. I do not discount a miracle, but that is what it seems it will take at this point.

I know there are prayers coming our way continuously.....we feel them, and we find much comfort in them. There is a peace in knowing that God is in control, and is working a perfect plan. It may not always feel good, but we continue to trust. I am glad I don't have to orchestrate it all. Please just continue to pray. So many have asked what they can do to help, but that is what we need more than anything. I'd love to see that miracle come our way, but whatever happens, we know we win. There is no down side for Roger. I love you all, and appreciate your support.

We remain always, and securely,

IN HIS GRIP,
Debbie

"Mr. Right" Meme

In our son's college dorm room- Augsust 2005
After Josh's homecoming game - February 2005
MR. RIGHT! I snagged this from my sister's blog. But first, let me share a funny with you! I started answering the below questions. To be sure I got them all correct, I kept yelling to Agustin in the den. "Honey, are you still 43?" "Si" he answered. Next question: "Mi Amor, how tall are you:" He replies: "I'm 5'8" or 5'9"." I ask him, "Well, can I measure you? I want to be accurate." Then I hear, "What are you doing? Ordering my box already?" (He calls caskets boxes! LOL) Then he says in a loud, booming voice, "HOW RUDE!!

His age? 43 and a half

How tall is he? 5'8"

How long did you know each other before you got together? one week after meeting we were dating, then married in 7 months.

What physical features attracted you to him first? His beautiful skin & big white smile, oh and the way he could handle a soccer ball!

Eye color? Brown

Hair color? Jet black! I have found a few gray ones lately near his temples. I probably put them there! LOL

Hair style? contemporary, short, gelled into place

Normal outfit? Dress clothes and tie for work each day, but prefers shorts or jeans and t-shirts on his days off.

How did you meet? An American Missionary friend was dating my husband's sister. He got permission to invite me to a birthday supper for my hubby's brother.

How serious is it? Oh it's very serious!

Are you "in love"? More and more each day!

Do your parents like him? Very much!

Do his parents like you? Yes

Do you trust him? Oh yes!

Would you share a toothbrush with him? I probably would after scalding it, but he wouldn't allow me to! He is a germ freak!

Would he let you wear his pants? LOL I guess if I really wanted to but ...

Do you have a shirt of his that you sleep in? Nope

Do you like the way he smells? after he bathes!

Can you picture having kids with him? Yes, but I think those days are over so now we look forward to having grandkids!

What bothers you the most about him? I had to come back and edit this answer. I had put something that he used to do and I feel that was unfair to my hubby. Currently I guess the best answer here would be: He is aging so much more gracefully than I am!

Does he have a temper? He does, but keeps it under control., (most of the time!)

Are you happy to be with him? Yes

Does he embarrass you in public? Not anymore.

Does he smoke or do drugs? Nope

Does he have any piercings? Oh goodness No!

Any tattoos? No

Does he have any scars that you know of? Many from his days of semi-pro soccer in Mexico. Burns, stitches in the head, at work here in the USA he almost chopped a finger off!

Is he a party dude or stay at home? He used to be a party dude, but now is quite content to stay home

Is he outgoing or shy? Depends, he can be both depending on different factors

Does he love his mama? oh very much.

Would he hang out with you and your friends? Not for too long a period or too often. We usually do family things with other families.

Sing? He sings, but do you mean "well"???

At Hunting Island, S.C. August 2006 (It was so overcast our last day there:(

Easter Sunday 2006 - Please click on this one to get a better look at my

"hot tamale"!

Once Again, Allow me To Play "Catch Up"!

Not long ago, I finally got around to posting photos of our Christmas for my family members who live on other continents to enjoy. Tonight I was in a quandry, once again not able to decide what to post about. I have been in sort of a funk today, so I wasn't feeling very creative. I decided to browse through some photos and post some that my family members far away have not seen yet. I also thought it would be a good way for some of my newer *friends* who have been visiting my blog to get to know me a little better! I hope you enjoy the following photos of our Christmas Eve-2006!

Our festive evening began with a wonderful Christmas Eve service which was very moving as Pastor had the small ones come up on the platform and sit at his feet while he read the Christmas Story. There were some really cute exchanges of dialogue that took place between him and the children. After a short service, we were dismissed, but I noticed how many families lingered around, chatting and fellowshipping. It was a very nice feeling not to feel rushed to get home and get the kids in bed for school the next day. We hung around the auditorium for sometime visiting with many friends. Then the "photo shoot" started happening!

The Rios Family, Grandma and Grandpa Riffe, The Leonard Family, after our Christmas Eve service at Faith Baptist Church, Wesley Chapel, Florida.

One of my favorites of my boys! Taken after church service Christmas Eve. (Josh & Shane)

I told my dad to look dreamily into my mom's eyes. They both got tickled! So much for the romance!


Three Lovely Leonard Daughters and Two Handsome Rios Sons!

After service, The Leonards and Riffes came home with us for a Mexican Feast! Here is Amber helping Agustin finish up the chicken enchiladas in "salsa verde"! The apron Amber is wearing was given to Agustin by some of his employees years ago. Notice the chili peppers all over it! Amber loved this apron so much, that Agustin gave it to her! Talk about *re-gifting*!

A mean game of UNO broke out in the living room!

The two youngest had to entertain themselves as the night wore on! (Alex and Shane)

Following the Mexican tradition, after a late meal and the company left, we began opening our gifts! It was around 2:00 AM!

Not the best family photo, but it was around 2:00 AM remember!

Agustin tried on his new silk pajamas I gave him. As he was about to turn the covers down and finally fall into bed for the night, our son, Josh, started a wrestling match! It is now around 3:00 AM!

It was a wonderful night, but I think it would have been even more wonderful if my sis and her whole crew could have been with us. Oh well, maybe this year!

Slow?? - Who? Me?

Take the 100 Acre Personality Quiz!

A Wonderful Idea For Ministering!

I visited Happymama's blog today and absolutely loved what I saw there. You need to go check it out by clicking on the link below. Be sure to read the post titled "Day at the Spa". What an awesome pastor's wife she must have! Thanks happymama for sharing with us!

http://thimblethoughts.blogspot.com/

Why I Have Been Scarce Around the Blogoshpere!

I have been a busy bee trying to make my home a little more homey! My Dear Hubby had two days off in a row last week and boy did we get into some deep cleaning around the house! Some of the things we accomplished together were:

1) Vacuumed, washed with Murphy's Oil Soap (known as MOS for remainder of this post) 2 ceiling fans. After they are clean, I like to go over them with Pledge, so they will be easier to dust between cleanings.

2)Removed and vacuumed, washed air vents in both bathrooms.

3)Changed air filters in all 4 of our return air vents. Vacuumed and washed with MOS.

4)Washed all air conditioning vents with MOS.

5)Washed master bedroom and master bath door jambs and doors with ??? You guessed it! MOS ( I love the way the house smells after using this stuff!)

6)Totally emptied our master bedroom closet. Vacuumed, washed baseboards with MOS, rehung all clothing on my new hangers! We both got rid of so much stuff. He pitched some old stained work pants from his days in the restaurant kitchen, 3 chef coats, a pair of shorts. I got rid of several dresses and skirt and top outfits, socks, 2 purses, lots of jewelry, and all my old hangers. (Sis, I am saving a box full of the plastic ones for when you get state side!)

7)Put everything back into closet after rethinking the best positioning for our categories.

8)After removing a small chest of drawers from the back of our closet, I have decided to paint it to match our bedroom and I will start using it to store scrap booking supplies beside of my corner desk! Photos to come later.

So that is why my posts have been short or premade for about a week now! I require lots of rest, so all this work was done sporadically. I am enjoying my newly organized closet though and rejoicing that I felt well enough to delve into it. However, it did take some prodding from my husband. The two large boxes of hangers and organizers had arrived from Home Shopping last month. He was so tired of them sitting in our bedroom, but he's so sweet. He knows I don't have enough energy to do a big job like that on my own, so he offered to do it with me. I call that LOVE!

Hubby and I back in December! He was pooped having just come in from work!

Urgent Prayer Requests!

A dear friend called today to let us know that his two daughters, ages 10 and 17, both have Dengue Fever! Yes, here in Florda! They were told by the Doctor that about 100 cases a year are reported in the United States. So please uphold the entire Leonard Family in prayer as they deal with this. The timing is strange because they have been praying with us for my missionary neice and her hubby in Paraguay who have just had the Dengue Fever!

Also, pray for the Walker Family. Jim (the dad) is an evangelist and the family all sing and play instruments. Their 22 year old daughter, Jessica, has just gone through a visit here in Tampa at Moffitt Cancer Center. You can read more about her case here: http://www.hopetoledo.org/Walkers.html

Thanks so much!

Home Making Meme

Hey I snagged this Meme over at "Penless Thoughts" blog. I thougth it showed personality and would help my newer visitors get to know me better. So here goes:

Aprons - Y/N? If, Y, what does your favorite look like?
No, I don't wear them but I love the idea of them.

Baking - Favorite thing to bake:
Jackie's Chocolate Chip Cookies

Clothesline - Y/N?
No. I used a clothes line for years. Finally after baby #1 was about 3 yrs. old we were able to afford a dryer. What a blessing!

Donuts - Have you ever made them?
What? You mean you can make donuts at home!

Every day - One homemaking thing you do every day:
Make the beds! I can't think straight until that is done!

Freezer - Do you have a separate deep freeze?
No but would love to get one!

Garbage Disposal - Y/N?
Yes.

Handbook - What is your favorite homemaking resource?
I subscribe to Better Homes & Gardens

Ironing - Love it or hate it?
Love It - when my health is allowing me to get around. I could spend all day ironing! It is so rewarding to see crisp clothes hanging in my closets!

Junk drawer - Y/N? Where is it? Yes! In my kitchen with premade insert for dividing each item and each spot has a drawing of what goes in each spot. Example: picture of coins for "spare change" etc.

Kitchen - Color and decorating scheme. I am in transition, going from very country to simple elegance. My goal is to incorporate a garnet red with buttery/goldish yellow. I have builder's beige walls now and beige ceramic tiled floors. I have my antique pitcher collection on top of the cabinets on one of my walls. The other cabinets have all my mexican pottery and baskets and serape displayed on them.

Love - What is your favorite part of homemaking?
The results of a good night's rest after all floors are disinfected and sheets changed and everything has been fluffed and dusted!

Mop - Y/N?
Yes, but not as often as I used to. I vacuum first and then mop but often I spot mop areas with my hand and rag.

Nylons - Wash by hand or in the washing machine?
by hand

Oven - Do you use the window or open the oven door to check?
light in oven with window

Pizza - What do you put on yours?
Lots of cheese! red sweet bell peppers, tomatoe slices, onions, sausage on mine and hubby's. Son wants only cheese, sometimes pepperoni

Quiet - What do you do during the day when you get a quiet moment?
BLOG BLOG BLOG!! I do still read books sometimes as well!

Recipe card box?
Yes and one online at Food Network!

Style of house?
Single level contemporary built last year. High cathedral ceilings, lots of big windows. House is painted gray, trim is white.Patio out back overlooking pond.

Tablecloths and napkins -
I have a beautiful wooden table that I hate to cover, so I usually just use place mats for us, but for holidays, I will put on an appropriate table cloth with matching napkins. Paper napkins for us unless its a birthday or I feel my family needs to feel special, but cloth for company.

Under the kitchen sink - Organized or toxic wasteland?
Organized of course!

Vacuum - How many times per week?
Twice at least. More if I feel well.

Wash - How many loads of laundry do you do per week?
7 or 8.Sometimes more if I do rugs or something extra.

X's - Do you keep a daily list of things to do that you cross off?
Yes I have recently started this. I used to live by a list, but when I quit working out of the home, I sort of lost the habit. I recently realized how it helped me accomplish so much more to have a list, so I excitedly began this habit again.

Yard - Y/N? Who does what?
My husband does all the mowing and yard work. I do some weeding. I bring home pretty flowers sometimes and set them outside by my front door!

Zzz's - What is your last homemaking task for the day before going to bed?
Making sure my kitchen sink is empty. Does kissing my son count?

This is a brief look into my home. If you'd like to join in and tag yourself, let me know so I can come read yours.

Did This Photo Make the Sports Pages?

I can almost guarantee this photo will never make the sports pages, or the TV sports & talk shows. That's the Colts owner Jim Ursay on Coach Tony Dungy's left. The trophy is on the table to Coach Tony's right. This was not only a Super Bowl win but a victory for people of faith! Head coach Tony Dungy of the Indianapolis Colts gathers his team in prayer in the locker room after winning Super Bowl XLI 29-17 against the Chicago Bears on February 4, 2007 at the Dolphin Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida

The Pay Must Be Great!

Anybody want a construction job with Florida Power??
Copy and Paste the link!

http://community-2.webtv.net/karenlprince/AMUSTSEE/index.html

Does Your Soul Need Some Ice-Cream?

I know many have probably received the following in an email. I came across it again today, and just felt like sharing it here. Enjoy!
Last week, I took my children to a restaurant.

My six-year-old son asked if he could say grace.

As we bowed our heads he said, "God is good, God is great. Thank you for
the food, and I would even thank you more if Mom gets us ice cream for
dessert. And Liberty and justice for all! Amen!"

Along with the laughter from the other customers nearby, I heard a woman
remark, "That's what's wrong with this country. Kids today don't even
know how to pray. Asking God for ice cream! Why, I never!"

Hearing this, my son burst into tears and asked me, "Did I do it wrong?
Is God mad at me?"

As I held him and assured him that he had done a terrific job, and God
was certainly not mad at him, an elderly gentleman approached the table.

He winked at my son and said, "I happen to know that God thought that
was
a great prayer."

"Really?" my son asked.

"Cross my heart," the man replied.

Then, in a theatrical whisper, he added (indicating the woman whose
remark had started this whole thing), "Too bad she never asks God for
ice
cream. A little ice cream is good for the soul sometimes."

Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end of the meal. My son
stared at his for a moment, and then did something I will remember the
rest of my life.
He picked up his sundae and, without a word, walked over and placed it in
front of the woman. With a big smile he told her, "Here, this is for
you.
Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes; and my soul is good already."


Sometimes, we all need some ice cream.
I hope God sends you some Ice Cream today!

Wanna Do Some "Cyber Visitation"?

If so, then please go here and read this dear sister's entry for Monday, Feb. 26th. I can't wait to hear back from you all on this one!

http://janieathome.blogspot.com/

Better Late Than Never!

Okay, so Christmas was 2 months ago! But here are some photos I never shared with my sister and niece, who were so far away from us during this special time of memory making! So please, just indulge me for today as I play "MAKE UP"!

I asked my nephew to pose for a picture with his great Aunt Tommie before leaving. He just rushed right over to her and swooshed her up! She giggled so hard! What a great memory!

Shane with my cousin Ron Kennedy and his wife, Ellie. December 2006

My dad with his sister Tommie, Christms 2006. She collects fans, so he gave her this one that a missionary had brought him from Japan!

Shane and I, with Aunt Donna and Aunt Tommie, Dec. 06, at Aunt Donna's house.

Please Pray for the McCobb Family and A "MUST READ" for Wives

Jackie and Elena in Costa Rica last year!

Brian with his little Princess!

Elena's first time to help load the dishwasher (at Aunt Pam's) - July 2006!

First let me say a big "Thank You" to all who have been praying for my niece, Jackie and her hubby, Brian, missionaries in Paraguay. They are both down with the Dengue fever. We pray that 18 month old Elena doesn't get it. Jackie is in her fourth month of pregnancy. To read more about Dengue, click this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dengue_fever




On another note---


I was so happy to receive a comment on my humble, little blog from a dear lady who has written a wonderful post concerning Christian wives and finances. I also recommend you use the link she furnishes at the bottom of her post to read a sweet essay by Washington Irving. Happy reading!


http://www.nationalwomanhoodfoundation.com/realblog.html

Revealing Life

Option Ultrasound Saving Lives
by Wendy Cloyd, assistant editor

Program lets pregnant women see an image of their preborn child.
Focus on the Family's Option Ultrasound Program (OUP) is encouraging thousands of pregnant women to choose life.

Since its inception in January 2004, OUP has placed 287 ultrasound services in medical pregnancy-resource centers in 46 states. Approximately 34,000 babies have potentially been saved.

Sue Parker, executive director of Life Choices in Memphis, Tenn., said OUP helped her center begin offering ultrasound just over a month ago.

"Women want to seek an answer to their problems -- and they see their pregnancy as a problem," she said. "A center that is making the ultrasound tool available gives women the opportunity to explore their options from a legitimate medical perspective."
Her county reports more than 7,000 abortions annually, so the need for a pro-life alternative is great.

"In our first month, even without the benefit of advertising, we saw about 35 ultrasounds," Parker said. "We took everything the Option Ultrasound Program had built into us and made it come alive for these girls."

Kim Conroy, director of Focus on the Family's Sanctity of Human Life outreach, said 88 percent of abortion-minded women who seek counseling and ultrasound services leave a pregnancy-resource center with the intention of carrying their babies to term.

"Women need the truth when faced with the challenging circumstances that lead them to consider abortion," she said. "Ultrasound examinations provide medical confirmation of their pregnancy and are a crucial tool to help women make positive decisions for themselves and their babies."

That's exactly what happened when a teenager and her parents visited Life Choices, Parker said. The girl agreed to an ultrasound just to see how far along she was.

"It turned out her pregnancy was 17 weeks," she said. "Literally on cue, the baby just moved -- and of course his heart was beating -- and he was just introducing himself to his mother."
Tearfully, the teen admitted that she had no idea her baby would look like a baby. She asked if her parents could join her in looking at the ultrasound images.

"They came back with her and literally they went from being in the waiting room and being abortion-minded to walking just a few yards and becoming pro-life," Parker said. "They said, 'This is our grandchild! Honey, I don't know how this is all going to work, but we're going to work it out.' "

Parker said Life Choices was able to tell them, "We're going to be there with you through this. We'll help you make a plan for your baby."

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Learn more about Focus on the Family's Option Ultrasound Program, visit Heartlink.org.

Duct Tape or Nails

A man dies and goes to heaven.

Of course, St. Peter meets him at the Pearly Gates.



St. Peter says, "Here's how it works.

You need 100 points to make it into heaven

You tell me all the good things you've done,
and I give you a certain number of points for each item,

depending on how good it was.

When you reach 100 point s, you get in."

"Okay," the man says,

"I was married to the same woman for 50 years

and never cheated on her, even in my heart"

"That's wonderful," says St.Peter, "that's worth three points!"

"Three points?" he says.

"Well, I attended church all my life

and supported its ministry with my tithe and service."

"Terrific!" says St.Peter, "Thats certainly worth a point."

"One point!?!!"

"I started a soup kitchen in my city and worked in a shelter

for homeless veterans."

"Fantastic, that's good for two more points," he says.

"Two points!?!! "Exasperated, the man cries.

"At this rate the only way I'll get into heaven

is by the grace of God."

"Bingo, 100 points! Come on in!"



We often try to fix problems with WD-40 and duct tape.

God did it with nails

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is: Lady Madame Pamela the Bloody of Great Leering Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO!

Things have been a little busier than normal for us, but in a fun way! I haven't really "shared" with you all in awhile - so get ready, here it comes!

I'll start back with last week.

Monday: I was in such a state of pain and inflammation that I didn't accomplish much at all, mostly just schooling with Shane.

Tuesday: I was much better. I had more mobility and was able to do a few things around the house along with the schooling. We filled out valentine cards for the grandparents. Around 6:30 p.m., my son Josh drove up from Tampa and took his little brother to the florist to buy something for me for Valentine's Day! This was to be Shane's first time inside a florist's shop. It was so darling because they were trying to be secretive about it. Shane even called his dad into the hall bathroom to tell him they were going to go buy mom (ME) some flowers. I wish you all could have seen that little boys face when he walked in the front door after his shopping trip!!Priceless! He was holding my gifts behind his back and Josh had a beautiful bouquet of roses for me. They both were the most gorgeous children at that moment! Their looks and body language will forever be locked in my memory. First Josh gives me the roses and a kiss and a "Happy Valentine's Day Mom!" Then Shane moves in and whisks from behind his back one of the cutest little brown Gund bears you have ever seen and a heart shaped balloon. It was wonderful! I gave Josh his card and candy before he left.

Wednesday: I cooked my hubby's favorite "American" meal for his lunch! He had to leave for work at 2:30, so it worked out great! We had roast beef, onions, carrots, potatoes,salad. Later, Shane and I baked cookies for him to take to Patch Club at church. We drove Agustin to work so we could keep the car and do a few extra errands. Shane wanted to buy his two female teachers a rose each. So we stopped by the florist to pick up a rose for Mrs. Mills and Mrs. Jiminez. We then got home and iced the cookies and decorated them with decals. We filled treat bags with chocolates for all the kids in Patch. When we got to church, we were pleasantly surprised to see Josh had driven up from Tampa again to go to church with us! Kim was sick and at home, so Josh and I volunteered to take Alex and Ashley home. That was so enjoyable because they are both such joys to be around. I had given my hubby his card and gift early in the day. He brought me chocolates when he came in from work.

Thursday: Agustin was off, so we pulled out the stove and refrigerator to scrub them and the floors and walls as well. It felt so good! Agustin cleaned the top of the fridge for me too. We did other various things around the house. We had intended to go to a Christian concert at my parent's church Thursday night, but after a day of cleaning and tugging, I was out of commission for awhile. My body was screaming, "STOP THE MADNESS! GET A SHOWER AND CRASH INTO YOUR BED WOMAN!" So that is just what I did! I regret that I missed the Dartt family singers. I really love the fellowship I always have with them, but I needed to be able to move on Friday and I had already overdone it. So Agustin and I both felt that the most prudent thing for me to do was listen to my body and just go to bed.

Friday: We all slept in late. When we finally arose, Shane did his devotions, math, reading, and penmanship while I cleaned the kitchen and got ready. We left around noon for the Florida State Fair! It was chilly when we left the house, around 60 degrees I guess. By the time we left the fair at 7 p.m., it has dropped to 45 degrees! We had our jackets on, but were freezing! We enjoyed touring "Cracker Country" and meeting a real Florida Cracker! She had written a family cookbook and was sitting in a rocker on a back porch of one of the homes, knitting, talking to folks about her family heritage. We watched a real blacksmith working at his anvil. We watched a family make homemade soap. I especially loved the little one room school house! Everyone was dressed in period clothing of the late 1800's. Of course, Shane loved the rides! We also sat in on a Kitchen Craft Cookware demonstration that was very educational and interesting! Shane loved it! I had forgotten how good my cookware was! You see, I had bought the Basic Set about 25 years ago before I ever married! I'm sure the Lord had us stop by that tent to remind me how easy it is to cook healthy meals in my expensive, waterless cookware! Now Agustin wants to invest in the Professional Set! Praise the Lord for His leading!

Right after that, I popped into the Amazing Grace Missions tent and was so pleased to find out they had over 180 salvations since the fair had started!

We loved the petting zoo! My little niece Jayde would have thought she was in heaven there! Shane brushed a big Aye Shire dairy cow, fed the goats who were such beggars! We watched the newborn piglets nursing from their big mama. We even saw two of the cutest baby burros! And of course through out the day, we ATE!! Pizza, Sandwiches of Italian Sausages with onions and peppers, I had my annual foot long corndog. We had ice cream and on the way out we shared fries and a funnel cake!

Agustin enjoys looking at all the new cars on display! The corvette always gets his heart a thumpin'! But he also enjoys trying on the cars from the Dodge dealership! I had to pry his hands from the steering wheel of the 2008 RED Dodge Challenger!

After leaving the fair, we dropped Shane off at my parents home in Tampa, then came home, showered, and crashed!

Saturday: Agustin had to leave for work at 7 a.m. I piddled around the house trying to loosen up some so I could jump in and get my chores done. I knew Josh was bringing Shane home in the afternoon. I was almost finished cleaning the house and doing laundry when my boys arrived. I was able to vacuum the entire house. Do two loads of laundry. Scrub my bathroom. I cleaned my kitchen really well. I tore apart my toaster and shined it up nice. I dug into my garbage disposal with paper towels and bleach. YUCK was it ever nasty up under that rubber flap thingy! I did lots of minor things that needed done and was so thankful at the end of the day that I had felt well enough to have been able to do what *normal* housewives and mommys do.

Josh just hung out all evening and when he wasn't on the computer chatting with Ashley, he played some video games with Shane. He ordered pizza and sprite for all of us. Then around 10 p.m. he headed back to Tampa.

Sunday: Church and what a blessing to see Kim there! She is alive after a terrible battle with this flu that has been going around. Pastor had a great sermon from Revelation. When he read the verse about no more pain, I almost jumped up and shouted 'Hallelujah"! I missed Pat and her family, but I know they are enjoying their family vacation in PA to see her son.

Monday: I sit here at my computer early this a.m. wondering what wonderful things the Lord has in store for me today! Hope your day is wonderful as well.

Love is Spelled T*I*M*E

Please take two minutes and watch this video. The ending will certainly put tears in your eyes and hopefully cause you to contemplate on your priorities.

Have a wonderful Lord's Day!

www.toachild.com

Who Remembers Randolph Mantooth from "Emergency"?

I found this list on another blog, and for the life of me, I can't remember whose. I tweaked it a little to fit me better. Also, I knew my sister would get a kick out of it especially, so please forgive me for being frivolous today! She is going through a very stressful time and I thought conjuring up some childhood memories would do her good.

You were a girl in the seventies if .......

You had that Fisher Price Doctor's Kit with a stethoscope that actually worked.

You owned a bicycle with a banana seat and a plastic basket with flowers on it.

You learned to skate with actual skates (not roller blades) that had metal wheels.

You thought Gopher from Love Boat was cute (admit it!)

You had nightmares after watching Fantasy Island.

You had rubber boots for rainy days and Moon boots for snowy days.

You owned a "Slip-n-Slide" , on which you injured yourself on a sprinkler head more than once.

You owned "Klick-Klacks" and smacked yourself in the face more than once (or constantly had bruises on your arms!)

You had either a "bowl cut" or "pixie", not to mention the "Dorothy Hamill".

People sometimes thought you were a boy.

Your Holly Hobbie sleeping bag was your most prized possession.

You wore a poncho, gauchos, and knickers.

You begged Santa for the electronic game, Simon.

You had the Donnie and Marie dolls with those pink and purple satiny shredded outfits, or the sunshine family.

You spent hours in your backyard on your metal swing set with the trapeze.

The swing set tipped over at least once.

You had homemade ribbon barrettes in every imaginable color. (Oh yeah!)

You had a pair of Doctor Scholl's sandals (the ones with hard sole & the buckle).

You also had a pair of salt-water sandals and clogs.

You wanted to be Laura Ingalls Wilder really bad; you wore that Little House on the Prairie-inspired plaid, ruffle shirt with the high neck in at least one school picture; and you despised Nellie Olson!

You wanted your first kiss to be at a roller rink!

Your hairstyle was described as having "wings" or "feathers" and you kept it "pretty" with the comb you kept in your back pocket.

When you walked, the "wings" flapped up and down, looked like you were gonna "take off".

You know who Strawberry Shortcake is, as well as her friends, Blueberry Muffin and Huckleberry Pie.

You carried a Muppets lunch box to school and it was metal, not plastic.

With the thermos inside some were glass inside and broke the first time you dropped them.

You and your girlfriends would fight over which of the Dukes of Hazzard was your boyfriend.

YOU had Star Wars action figures, too!

It was a big event in your household each year when the "Wizard of Oz" would come on TV. Your mom would break out the popcorn and sleeping bags!

You often asked your Magic-8 ball the question: "Who will I marry. Shaun Cassidy, Leif Garrett, or David Cassidy?"

You completely wore out your Grease, Saturday Night Fever, and Fame soundtrack.

You tried to do lots of arts and crafts, like yarn and Popsicle-stick God's eyes, decoupage, or those weird potholders made on a plastic loom.

You made Shrinky-Dinks and put iron-on kittens on your t-shirts!

You used to tape record songs off the radio by holding your portable tape player up to the speaker.

You had subscriptions to Dynamite and Tiger Beat.

You learned everything you needed to know about girl issues from Judy Blume books. (Are you there God, It's me, Margaret.)

You thought Olivia Newton John's song "Physical" was about aerobics. (?? its not??)

You wore friendship pins on your tennis shoes, or shoelaces with heart or rainbow designs.

You wanted to be a Solid Gold dancer.

You drowned yourself in Love's Baby Soft - which was the first "real" perfume you ever owned.

You glopped your lips in Strawberry Roll-on lip-gloss till it almost dripped off.~~~~~~~

Here's some of mine:

I glopped on Bonne Bell Seven Up Lip Smackers and was delighted when I got a big plastic candy cane full of the flavors, including strawberry and Dr. Pepper.

I put in stick pins in my cowl neck sweaters.

I owned a curling iron and used it regularly.

One word-clogs.

Never had them but my girlfriend did and her feet hurt all the time.

Platform shoes (what were we thinking?) I fell off the platform in my school cafeteria while wearing platforms. How embarrassing!

Forget Leif Garret--Randolph Mantooth from Emergency.

I wanted a Camero or a black Trans Am--all the cute boys had black Trans Ams.

5-7-9 stores. Never shopped there. Ever.

I sat out in a friend's car and we talked for hours on her CB radio! My call name was : "Butterface"! yeah baby! Remember, I grew up in the south!

Porkchops--when it meant something on your face. that's what we called those horrible sideburns.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Get the picture of Randolph Mantooth from a great website called Stuck in the 70's. Pass the Bugles and the cheese roll. Who's next?

"Swinging Lifestyle of a Meerkat"

My 9 year old, Shane, wrote this short report Monday after reading about Meerkats. His innocence in it all is what makes it so precious. I just had to share it. I will type it here exactly the way it appears on his paper, misspelled words and all. Here goes:


Meerkats

Meerkats are predators. They can make babies when their one year old. They can do it all year.

They can use their sharp long claws to kill, to dig, to fight. They travel in packs. One will guard while the rest hunt. They are related to other species to. They are also on diets.

{Then he drew a cute picture of them!)

Now here is the adult translation pertaining to what we read yestereday:

Meerkats are predators They have no particular mating season as do some mammals.

They use their claws for defense. They travel in packs and hunt in groups. Their diet consists of insects and larva, some meat.

I LOVE THIS QUOTE!

“I long to worship Jesus with the heart of a child, in a state of pure and true adoration. Yet so many things of the world cloud my thoughts and pull on my heart until it’s no longer just a girl in the arms of the Father”~ Darlene Schacht ~

"...but I have called you friends."

John 15:15 - ""Henceforth I call you not servants for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you."

How would you feel if you got a lettter from the President of the United States, saying, "I want you to be a close friend of mine. You can come to my house any time and talk to me." That would be an exciting day for you!

Did you know that God Himself has said the same thing in His letter to you, the Bible? Read John 15:15 again. God wants you to be His close friend, not just His servant. Do you talk to God as to a friend?

I sometimes dwell so much on the fact that I should serve God, that I forget He is also my greatest friend. WOW! What a friend we have in Jesus! Who better to be friends with? There is none!

Thank God that He wants you to be His friend. Thank Him that you can talk to Him any time.

Sweet comment left by Teresa P.

Teresa P. said...
I ran to your blog Sunday a.m.- Kaden and I are together ( after bacon for us and poached eggs for paw)My tears ran down my face . I will have to write later. I must see you. We miss you terribly.

Pam here. I just wanted you all to see what a sweetie she is! Blessings!

THIS COULD WELL BE ME!!!

TERESA P. - my friend, my mentor!

Teresa, (in blue) picking up baby Kaden at one of Josh's baseball games!

I read the article below on Kelleigh's blog today http://homemakershaven.blogspot.com/ and thought I would borrow it. (She lives in Australia by the way!) Anyhow, it got me to thinking about my dear friend, Teresa P. She is one of the best cooks that I have had the privilege to know. But what I really want you to know about Teresa is this: she realizes cooking isn't just about feeding the family. She pours her heart and soul into her cooking. It is a ritual for her. It has a sacramental aspect to it. You see, for me, cooking was just a mundane task. I have learned from Teresa though, that cooking food for others not only nourishes their bodies, but nourishes their souls as well. Teresa is a very busy wife, mother, grandmother, and career woman. However, she has never sacrificed cooking home made meals for her loved ones. She is always interested in trying new recipes and not getting into a rut. And to hear her describe food - how it looked, how it tasted, how she prepared it -- that is a pleasure in and of itself! LOL

Until about a year ago, I babysat Teresa's grandson, Kaden, almost on a daily basis. When Kaden's mommy quit work during her last pregnancy and chose to stay home with Kaden and new baby, I was so happy for her decision! On the other hand, it was hard to "give up" my little buddy Kaden. I knew I would miss him so much. However, it didn't take long for me to discover he wasn't all that I missed! I miss(ed) the wonderful leftovers his Grandma Teresa would bring to my house each morning when she would bring Kaden to me!

In closing, I'd like to say, Teresa is ALL ABOUT HER FAMILY and cooking good, homemade meals for them is her hobby. Even though her life is very "time-driven", she hasn't let the "craziness" of a fast paced life rob that joy from her. One meaningful aspect of home life she is not willing to sacrifice is her lovingly prepared home made meals. Teresa is constantly in the process of being made "broken bread and poured out wine" so that she may nourish others souls. I love you Teresa for keeping your priorities straight and for being such a wonderful example to me! I post the following article in honor of you!
Proverbs 31:10 - "Who can find a virtuous woman, for her price is far above rubies."

Proverbs 31:11 - "For the heart of her husband doth safely trust in her..."

Proverbs 31:12 - "She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life."

Proverbs 31:16 - "She considereth a field and buyeth it."

Proverbs31:20 - "She stretcheth out her hand to the poor: yea, she reacheth forth her hand to the needy."

Proverbs 31:27 - "She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness."

Proverbs 31:28 - "Her children arise up and call her blessed."

Proverbs 31:30 - "Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised."

Teresa & I making silly memories while painting her son's house! (She is going to kill me for posting this photo!)

A very pregnant Bianca tapes the floors!

Kaden and Shane know the right places to hang out! (This is the delicious lunch that Bianca catered to us on the day we painted.)


P.S. - Shane just walked in and asked me, "What are you posting about mom?" I told him I wrote about Teresa being such a good cook. "Oh, she IS a good cook!" he replied in a very enthusiastic voice. (I think he misses Aunt Teresa's left overs too! *smiles*)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Food and Homemaking

The preparation of food is never just a mundane task, it has a sacramental aspect, it is part of what makes a home. What is life for? If it’s merely about fulfilling our material needs, then you could eat a bowl of cheerios….in front of the TV every night…Food not only nourishes the body, but it, and the rituals surrounding it, nourishes something in the human soul. -Rod Dreher

Our lives have become increasingly time-driven, one place where this is painfully evident is our kitchens! We have microwave ovens and all kinds of expensive kitchen gadgetry yet despite the plethora of kitchen doodads, canned and pre-packaged foods are more popular than ever! Consider the space dedicated to basic ingredients in most supermarkets. Maybe one or two isles? Yet the paradox is popular magazines and books featuring home-cooked meals are prolific. People like the concept home-cooked meals yet the reality is we are so pressed for time and often end up resorting to a pre-made sauce in the bottle. Food advertisers are very aware of this fact too. Has your eye ever lighted on a fetching photo of homemade pie with accompanying recipe? Then have you noticed a nearby advertisement for ready-made frozen pie? Oh yes, so very clever! Unhappily commercial pie does not approximate home-baked pie no matter how much advertisers try to convince us otherwise!
****************
So just how far are we willing to go? What meaningful aspects of home life are we willing to sacrifice in order to pursue 'fulfilling careers' and increased possessions? Food preparation is at the heart of home life and mealtimes are among the most enduring memories of family life. If we continue make home-cooking a low priority in life we deprive ourselves and possibly future generations of the rich experiences of home that money cannot buy.
*******************
Image: www.janetkruskamp.com/CanningDay.html

Seeking Out Objects Of Our Gracious Intentions

I mentioned yesterday in my post that I was able to share a kind deed with someone at the park. I'd like to share a little more about that.

Since it was such a lovely day here in Florida, Agustin and I thought it would be good to get Shane out of the house for a bit. He has been sequestered for the last few days due to being ill. We drove a few blocks to the park in our community. The parking lot was full of moms and dads, in their cars, waiting for the elementary school across the street to dismiss. I had planned on walking the perimiters of the grassy areas for my exercise. As I began to walk, I noticed that the park seemed to have more litter than usual. I also noticed the groundskeeper patiently picking up trash. It was then I decided to show this man an act of kindness and shorten his tedious chore! In the words of Charles H. Spurgeon, I sought him out as an object of my gracious intentions! I bent down to pick up a potato chip bag, then walked a few steps, I bent down again to pick up a water bottle. It struck me that this was better for me than just walking! I could get in my bending and stretching while performing my act of kindness, then walk home from the park to do my real walking. The man was jovial and smiling as we met midway in the field. I deposited my handful of trash into the half filled trashbag he extended to me. He then exclaimed: "That's so nice of you. Thanks for making my job easier today." I shared with him how when my boys were small, I would always have them pick up any trash they found on any playground we went to before they would be allowed to play. I would make a game out of it. "Josh, let's see how much trash we can pick up before I count to sixty! Then you can play." We would rush around laughing and racing. He would be giggling by the time that minute was up. I did similar things with Shane. The groundskeeper said it would be nice if all parents who use the park would see that their kids helped clean it up. I then remarked that if the principles of personal responsibility were more prevalent in our society today, we would have far fewer problems. He was working on the clock, so I was careful not to take up too much of his time, but I will relish the smile on his face as I offered a simple act of kindness today!

If you're a momma of young ones, I'd like to encourage you. Why not use the opportunity for training your children in community service when visiting parks, museums, public areas? If you see trash or some other need while you are in a public place, have your children pitch in and be a community helper. Stress how they are being a good neighbor by doing this small amount of work. It is showing kindness! God smiles on this. Make it a game with your kids. Praise them for helping. More importantly, be alert when you arrive at your church. While you are walking in the halls, the sanctuary, the fellowship hall, or restrooms, you can be on the look out for ways to make your church more presentable. I enjoy straightening all the hymnals I can reach. Many times I will have my nine year old go around and collect candy/gum wrappers from the pews, floor, and hymnal shelves. Is there something you and your children can do to make your church's appearance better than when you arrived? Teach your children that they are blessing the Lord and others when they care for the house of God.

I must say that I'm disappointed when I observe parents coming and going, never to give a thought about the work that goes into maintaining the very places they enjoy using. They are bypassing a beautiful learning experience for their children! It is especially disheartening to me when I see children CREATE messes and the parents simply walk away at the end of play time to load the kiddies in the car and drive away. Wouldn't you agree that we as Christians should always consider our testimonies and never leave a place worse than it was when we first arrived? My friend Kim practices this rule faithfully. After a meal at my house, her daughters will start loading my dishwasher and Kim will grab the broom and start going at it with zest! No matter how much I beg her to stop and just sit, she insists she wants the place to look as if she hasn't even been there when she leaves!

We read in Acts 10:38 that Jesus went about doing good. We may even believe the text implies that Jesus went out of His way to do good. He sought out the objects of His gracious intentions. So must we! Think of the fun we can have as we train our children to do the same.

"He hath left us an example that we should follow
in HIS steps."

Above: Agustin & Shane enjoying our community's basketball court!

Shane & Kaden ejnoying the slide in our neighborhood park!

The playground my family enjoys!

JOY & KINDNESS

The joy of the Lord is my strength!

Here is a list of things that brought joy to my heart and life today!

*Shane felt better and was able to do a little more school work than he has done in days and his throat allowed for some oral reading

*My niece in Paraguay sent me video clips of the house she just moved into

*The house my niece moved into is a tropical paradise for little money - so nice

* I had the opportunity to share some simple kindness with one of the groundskeepers of our community

*I thought my mouse (think computer)was broken. I was ready to rush out the door and buy a new one. I ran to use the restroom first. Shane runs to my bathroom door yelling: "Mom, we don't need to go. Dad fixed it!" I had changed the batteries to our wireless mouse, shaken it, rattled it, many other things. I guess Agustin just had that special touch it needed

*We had a delicious dinner with hubby at home

*Found out my dear friend over at http://www.itsmymemories.blogspot.com/ is about to leave on vacation with her family to see one of her sons (he lives in PA, where it was only 8 degrees when he went to class this morning!) I am so happy she gets to go and so happy I won't be in that cold weather!

*I received a newsy email from a dear cousin I hadn't heard from in awhile

*I was able to blog after all this evening (Believe me, when my mouse went haywire, I went into panic mode - I AM ADDICTED TO BLOGGING!)

*Many reminders of my Heavenly Father's love for me through out the day

What an Honor!

Shane, Agustin & I

I didn't have a photo of us cooking, so I put this one up!

I was blessed to have a day in the kitchen with my hubby! He didn't have to leave for the restaurant until three p.m. and I felt well enough to be on my feet for awhile as we chopped veggies and prepared two delicious meals!



First, let me back up here and mention that our church hosted a pastor's fellowship today and with dinner being served around five. My husband got up early and went to the restaurant where he picked up lots of produce that had been donated by Red's Market for the salads tonight. Then he stopped off at the grocery store and purchased two beautiful roasts, a Perdue chicken, (my favorite for making soup or roasting), and a variety of vegetables. When he got home, we got to cooking! I seared the roasts while he started chopping veggies. By one o'clock, we had a huge pot of homemade chicken soup and two roasts with onions, carrots, and potatoes done! The soup was for us and the roasts were for the Pastor's fellowship dinner at five. Agustin left the house around 2:45 and delivered the roasts to the church as he went to work. I counted it a joy to be able to prepare food for some men of God and their wives. What an honor! My little part really didn't amount to much, but nonetheless, it was a blessing to me to be able to participate in this small way.

Shane and I enjoyed that chicken soup not only for lunch, but once again for supper. It was so yummy with the cilantro and all the fresh carrots, potatoes, cabbage. After I dish it into the bowls, I like to add a few squirts of lime juice and eat it with Tostitoes! AYE-CHIHUAHUA!



Please pray for my little man, Shane. He is still very congested but finally downed some cough syrup. That was about an hour ago and his coughing has subsided. He is in bed waiting for a story, so I must run!

GUESS WHOSE BIRTHDAY IT IS???

MY LITTLE SISTER'S!

I LOVE YOU RITA!

(a.k.a. "Jungle Mom")

Rita holding her grand-daughter at the beach house on Hunting Island just this past August!

Our last family supper at Olive Garden before she returned to Venezuela.

Oh - almost 20 years ago. Rita is busy talking while Clint inspects my new son - Joshua Rios!

Holding her new nephew - Josh Rios, while she is pregnant with her baby boy!

Rita is the red-head in the back of this Bible Study in her yard in Ciudad Bolivar!

Our mother and my Josh were there on a visit. Notice the two Joshes are hanging out in the hammock! You can barely see Jackie's head in the middle of the photo and little Jewel is sitting on the lap of the man in the forefront. Jayde is the baby in the walker. Such cutie pies!

Rita, I wish I had more photos of you on my computer so I could do a worthy tribute to you and your life's accomplishments. I have some lovely ones of you which I plan to scan one day! haha But you know me!

It may never happen.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

I'm So Happy For Coach Dungy!

COACH LOVIE SMITH (Chicago Bears)&

COACH TONY DUNGY (Indianapolis Colts)

YAY! My team won the SuperBowl last night! Maybe I should say, my coach won! Being that I live in Tampa, I'm a long time fan of Coach Tony Dungy. He had such a consistent testimony for Christ all around town! He still does for that matter. I have a few friends who attended the same church as the Dungy family here in Tampa. It was such a blessing for me to hear of them going to his house for Bible studies with Mrs. Dungy and that the Dungy's volunteered for nursery duty just like all the other parents who had babies using the facilities.

I received a real treat at 2:30 this Monday AM when I visited the blog listed below. I would love for all of you to visit this blog and hear the wonderful testimonies of the two coaches from last night's big game. It brought tears to my eyes as I listened to Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith talk about Jesus, the Son of God! Please go watch them. They are short and well worth the visit!

Two Great Video Clips To Watch On This Site:

http://webutante.blogspot.com

Proverbs 3:5 & 6

These have been a couple of my favorite verses for several years now. Yet, I still find myself "leaning to my OWN understanding"!

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart: and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct they paths."

Have a spendid Lord's Day!

HAPPY GROUND HOG'S DAY

Yes, its that wonderful time of the year, Ground hog's Day! Did anybody remember?

Shane woke me up at 5 a.m. this morning with a sore throat and full blown cold settling in upon him. He has had a quiet, down type of day. There is so much of this virus around our parts. My oldest son Josh missed 2 days of work this week due to the miserableness of it!

I had a blast last night ambushing my brother in laws blog!! He willingly gave me his password so that I might go in and fix a "little problem" he was having. (Long, funny story about that "little problem" that I can't go into here!) So while there in his safe, little haven, I decided to have a little fun. I added some links to his side bar, I also did a little posting and added a photo of ME! Such fun! He was away at Bible Institute teaching a Greek class. His wife and I were on the phone when we realized Clint had a "little problem" with his blog. So she called his cell phone, which he answered during one of his classes. She explained to him the "little problem" we had become aware of and asked for his password so I could use my computer to go in and fix it! She couldn't go online because he had the lap top with him. Well, you all know the old adage: "While the cats away the mice will play!" So play we did! I wanted to go further than I did and add florals, and teacups, and Victorian ladies, but my sis said no. He had enough problems in his life right now. We giggled and laughed and had the most wonderful time over the phone. Thank the Lord for Vonage! OH P.S. - You can see my handiwork at
www.yekwanaman-clintsblog.blogspot.com

I couldn't wait for Clint to come home from Institute and check his blog. I really thought he may call me. But no, he decided to respond on his blog! And to beat all, he posted a horrid photo of me during our summer vacation at the beach house. I had just gotten out of bed when that particular photo had been taken. So I must admit, by posting that photo, he got his revenge!!!

I'm so glad that as Christians we can have so much fun! It doesn't have to be dirty or off colored. It can be just straight out glorious fun!


Here is my brother-in-law, Clint, with his dad and step mom at the beach house on Hunting Island. See how nice I am? I posted a pleasant photo of him!

Peaceful Sleep

"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

Have you ever wondered about the human body's need for sleep? It has always amazed me when I think how God has designed us to literally “turn off” like a machine for eight hours each night. Sleep is something our bodies need to do; it is not an option. Many of the body's major organs and regulatory systems continue to work during sleep. Some parts of the brain actually increase their activity dramatically, and the body produces more of certain hormones.

Unfortunately, this precious, needed sleep is robbed many times by the uncertainties of homeschooling, illness, life in general. Anxious thoughts like “Will my children turn out OK if I homeschool?”, “How can I teach a subject I don’t even know?”, or “How will we pay the bills if I homeschool?” can torment us and keep us awake. Add household chores and responsibilities to this list of worries, and it’s no wonder we stay up late at night trying to do it all. I used to scrub floors at at all hours of the night! Those of you who know me now, understand that I am up at many strange hours of the night due to pain and restlessness, not trying to "do it all"! *smile*

Homeschooling mom, if you are struggling with these worries and working until you are exhausted, allow me to introduce to you a special verse - a wonderful promise of God.
Psalms 127:2 – “It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.” Isn't that precious to you? We don't need to worry and eat the bread of sorrows! God only has so much for you to do each day, and what is left undone is not important! To accomplish His perfect will for each day, we need to pray for wisdom. This is all that He asks of me and you! His provision to meet our unfinished tasks may come by sending extra help, inspiring us to organize a different way, or miraculously providing to meet whatever need we have. This verse and realization of it can change your life! Won't it be nice to lay your head on the pillow each night and not worry about the basket of laundry waiting to be folded or the lesson plans for tomorrow’s schoolwork?

When was the last time you had a good night’s sleep? (This question doesn't apply to me right now or anyone else reading this who experiences chronic pain! *giggle,giggle*) I remember as a young homeschooling mom, struggling with trying to do more than God intended. I would also lend myself to worry. God desires us to rest in Him and find the peaceful sleep of trusting Him. “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.” (Matthew 6:34a)

Dear Heavenly Father,

Forgive me for not getting the rest I need. Help me to trust You with my priorities. Also, as I homeschool my child(ren), let me trust in You, that I may accomplish what You intend for me to do each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.