Look Who Is Two Today!

My Great-Niece, ELENA GRACE McCOBB!!

I thought I would post a few photos of Elena during different stages of her life,

all TWO years of it!

At Birth

With Her Daddy

Asleep In Her Car Seat

Her First Haircut - Please notice her big, curious eyes in this photo!

Being a BIG SISTER!

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Dear Princess Elena,

I love you so much! I pray that when you grow up into the young lady that God has planned for you to be, you will realize what an awesome life you've had. I know you will be one amazing adult, because you have two amazing parents! I don't want you to hurry and grow up, but yet I am so excited about your future! I know you are busy right now just being a two year old and being Abbie's big sis. Those are both very important jobs. I hope one day you will read this letter and know in your heart of hearts how much this TIA loves you!

Hugs, Kisses, and Prayers,

Aunt Pam

For my Josh,Jackie and Jayde! Jewel is in a class of her own!

I read the following article at Crosswalk-Home School Life. It is copied from their August 28, 2007 issue. I can relate so well to the examples the author gives and I KNOW I have a son and two nieces who also can relate to Miss Jone's stories! For that reason, I dedicated this post to them! LOL


Applied Mathematics
by Sara Jones


If I'm ever at a loss for what to write, I draw on the author's great resource: suffering. And nothing makes me suffer more than math. My family isn't a math-minded family. Now, I usually don't like statements like that. People tend to use them as excuses. "I just couldn't stay home all the time with my family. I'm a people-person, you know?" (Congratulations - and your family is made up of nonpeople?) "I just can't get that class. I'm a hands-on kind of learner." (Congratulations - as soon as you develop a hands-on course for diagramming sentences, let me know.)

So I try to be careful when I explain to people my weaker areas; I try not to make lame excuses. It is after years of observation and consideration that I conclude: My family isn't a math-minded family. It's true that two of my brothers are computer nerds. They like to talk about megabytes and Pentium chips and read Dilbert. And my older sister can tally up a Scrabble score at a glance. But by and large, textbook math is not our strongest point. I might even say that, on a scale of one to ten, our math abilities rank somewhere around ... um ... ten minus eight ... wait, is it plus four? ... anyway, it's not our strongest point.

I think it's because we look beyond the surface problem. For instance, just the other day I came across a basic math problem. "Town A's population is 6,800. Town B's population is 4,200. If Town A's population is decreasing by 120 every year, and Town B's population is increasing by 80 every year, in how many years will their populations be equal?" I instantly comprehended the first step to solving the problem: Find out why so many people were leaving Town A every year. Maybe they were going to Town B. And all I could concentrate on was creating tourist billings for Town A to help salvage the population.

And then there are the ones about the area of triangles and "how many boxes measuring 6 cubic inches could fit into a shed 45 feet by 2 feet?" My interest tapers off into the negatives. It makes no sense to me to work such a problem, because, obviously, you aren't going to cram that many boxes into a shed; you've got to have some way to open the door. That, I suppose, is my major hang-up when it comes to math. Most of it just doesn't seem to apply to my daily life. (I'm ignoring remarks about how my daily life would require some unorthodox formulas.)

I've considered compiling a math textbook specifically for myself and my family. A typical problem in my Family Arithmetic Book would run something like this: Three sisters, L., S., and R., all get up at the same time on Sunday morning to go to their church's 8:30 service. They wear the same amount of makeup and same number of clothing articles. If each one gets up at 7:45, how long does it take each one of them to get ready? The formula for solving this problem is complex. First, you must divide the three girls between two bathrooms, only one of which has the makeup and toothbrushes in it. You also have to take into account the position and diameter of the hole in the ankle of S.'s white stockings and the accuracy of her mother's eye in catching it before they leave the house. Don't forget to calculate the probability of finding the right pair of white shoes among twenty-three pairs of shoes in the closet (most of which are L.'s). Subtract R.'s favorite barrette from the bathroom. The real problem is not how long it takes them to get ready, but whether they can make it to church in any sort of spirit of Christian charity. (To their credit, they usually do.)

The Family Arithmetic Book would include other areas of math, including: Force and Mass Calculations: A family is having an Easter-egg hunt. If a pink Easter egg is placed on a concrete block, and N. drops a block weighing 10 pounds on top of the egg, what will be left? (The answer, of course, is an enduring family memory of one of the best hiding places that we've discovered yet for Easter eggs.)

Time and Distance: L., proving an experiment she learned in a physics class, demonstrated that a person can squeeze an egg lengthwise in the hand without breaking the shell. If L. then says, "Look, you can even do it with both hands," how long will it take her to clean up the egg yolk all over herself and the kitchen, and how far down the family line will this story travel? Yes, I've concluded, if only math were designed to reflect and apply to daily life, it would pose no obstacle to my family.

Addition: how many spoonfuls of water-and-confectioner's-sugar icing does it take to make Lauren and Jamie sick? (Answer: They don't like to talk about it). Subtraction: if Neil, Matt, Jamie, Lauren, and Sara get off the bus together, how many walk down the driveway together? (Answer: Four, since one of the older ones will say something to make Sara mad, just to see her go into dramatics and run down the driveway).

Multiplication, division ... the possibilities are like numbers themselves - infinite. The Family Arithmetic Book would have a much more important use than just education. (I'm ignoring inquiries as to where I detect any educational use in the book in the first place.) Like all families, mine has difficulties now and then; but in compiling material for my book, I realized that it's because of my family that I have the blessing of knowing the answer to a problem like the following: A mother with five children marries a man with one son. Eventually, each son marries a wife. Each of these couples has at least one child. How many families are represented in all?

Answer: One.

(copied)

I LOVE THIS QUOTE!

My goal in life is to be as good of a person my dog already thinks I am.
~Author Unknown

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

This post is for a very special young lady in my life. Who is that special young lady you ask? Well none other than Ashley Leonard! She's the one on the top of the pyramid! I don't have a daughter, but if I did, I would hope she would make me smile like Ashley does.

Here's Ashley with little sis Alex in one of our favorite restaurants.



Ashley turns 18 today and we all know what a terrific age that is! Ashley and her folks had my family over Saturday night for one of Ashley's favorite meals: " Steak and Shake's Five Way Chili!" It was delish! I piled the spaghetti on my plate, then spooned several spoonfuls of Kim's chili over the noodles before adding shredded cheddar cheese and diced onions! Of course, most of us then topped our helpings with chili sauce! YUM! Kim served a fresh salad with all the fixin's on the side so we could pick and choose what we wanted from her salad bar. Feta cheese was there for the taking! I love that stuff!! The meal also included sourdough bread! Then for dessert, Ashley made a HUGE and fluffy peanut butter pie with a chocolate graham cracker crust! She knew that peanut butter pie is one of my Josh's favorite sweets. Wasn't that awful sweet of the birthday girl? She made something to please someone else rather than making her favorite. I found that really touching!



Ashley then opened her gifts and cards. I think we will hear of a "shopping trip" soon!



We finished the night off with a crazy game of Phase 10. Agustin and I had never played that game until the Leonards introduced us to it last year. Its a great game for big crowds. Many can play at once.



At about midnight, we headed on home. Once again the Leonards were wonderful hosts and made us feel just like part of their family.



Ashley, I hope this coming year in your life is one of the best ever! I know it has already been a year of many changes and growth. I pray you continue to desire God and His Will. Let HIM be your happiness throughout life. Remember you are a special creation by God, made for a specific purpose only you can fulfill. I have enjoyed watching you grow up from that feisty little girl to the graceful young lady you are today. I love you kiddo. Have a great 18th birthday!

Latest Journal Entry by Patti

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2007 04:09 PM, CDT

Dear Friends and Family,

Just a quick update:

**I had my bloodwork done today and needed the red cell shot. Accessing my port hurt for the first time ever. Usually can't feel it due to the numbing cream and spray. My doctor says it may be infected, so I'll be watching to see if the redness spreads or I get a fever. :-(

**Due to one of the chemo drugs I'm taking, taxotere, I'm getting bad burns on my hands/fingers. Wierd! I'm having to slather on Bag Balm and wear gloves to protect. The nurse said they may even blister and peel. The bright side is: I can't do dishes! :-) hee-hee

**This has been the worst feeling week I've had since starting treatment. The aches have been really bad, horrible sore throat (the nurse gave me some mouth wash, said it's "thrush"), and no energy at all. I am so thankful there is only 1 treatment left!

I told my choir about a song that has been such an encouragment to me recently by Ernie Haase and Signature Sound. I want to share the chorus with you:
If this is what God wants,

If this is what God says;

Then who I am to doubtOr try to figure out this circumstance?

If this is what God chose for me

In all His majesty...Then surely I can trust and lean

On what God says!

Trusting Him,
Patti

Wanna Learn More About Me?

I've been seeing this "get to know me better" post over around bloggityville alot lately. I finally feel like I have a little time to participate. So here goes:
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ACCENT - A little southern, but when I visit my relatives in West Virginia, I turn that southern accent into pure country Y'all!!

DRINK - As in my favorite drink? or do I drink? I don't drink alcohol, but must have my one cup of coffee with cream each morning. I usually order water with lemon when we eat out, but once in awhile, I splurge on Diet Coke. We only drink cokes at home if it's pizza night or a party!

CHORE I HATE - Ironing! I used to enjoy it and feel as though I were relaxing while doing it, but for the past few years, due to the RA, I just don't enjoy it anymore. It hurts!

PETS - None right now, but we've had our share in the past. Especially doggies.

ESSENTIAL ELECTRONICS - My DELL Computer and digital camera!

PERFUME - HUGO BOSS - Deep Red

GOLD or SILVER - I like them both. It just depends on what I'm wearing.

INSOMNIA - YES! and it makes me so mad. I am experiencing it less now that some health issues are being resolved and I'm on new medications.

JOB TITLE - Wife and Mom right now ,which is the best title any woman could own. However, I have had some different job titles in the past such as: Customer Service Manager, Nanny, Kindergarten teacher, Elementary teacher, High School Spanish teacher, Church Secretary, Home Day Care Owner.

MOST ADMIRED TRAIT - Compassion

KIDS -2 sons. My 20 year old is out of the house and quite a remarkable man, the other is almost 10 and my daily dose of sunshine!

PHOBIA - Big Floridian Palmetto Bugs! And anything else that is creepy and crawly, Heights rank high as a phobia as well.

RELIGION - I'm not religious but I do have a personal relationship with Christ, my Saviour! My denomination is Baptist with a capital B! LOL

SIBLINGS - I am the eldest of 3. When I was 5, along came my sis. When she was 2 months old my mom became pregnant again! Mom went from one extreme to the other in terms of spacing her pregnancies.

TIME I WAKE UP - Wake up or Get up? LOL I wake up sometime near lunch but I get up around 8 a.m. on most days. For me, it really depends on how my RA is behaving on any certain day. If I've spent a night awake, wrestling with pain, I will sleep most of the morning.

UNUSUAL TALENT/SKILL - I can categorize smells. I have an unwritten catalogue of smells in my brain. Just ask my Brother in Law, Yekwana Man.

VEGETABLE - I HATE - Beets

MY FAVORITE MEAL - Fried chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy, my mom's green beans, biscuits, and my banana pudding. That's heaven right there!

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That's it for me. I hope I didn't bore you too much. Have a blessed day!

Poem Written by a Homeschooled Student

September 11, 2001
By JoAnna Tatman

Out of the clear blue sky
I saw thousands die.
I saw people jump to their death.
I saw America hold its breath.

I saw the sadness of the world.
I saw the flag at half staff furled.
I saw the grief of a President.
I saw America lose its innocence.

I see the towers fall in my mind.
I think I've seen it a hundred times.
I saw America cry and pray.
I will never forget that horrible day.

I saw acts of the most evil kind.
I know we can never turn back time.
I'll remember those who fight to save
Freedom, in the land of the brave.
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I am totally out from under the influence of the valium that I wrote about last night. Aside from a little tenderness and bruising, I am feeling wonderful! I was afraid I would be really sore or achy, but only the old arthritis seems to be bothering me today.

I wanted to post a little something about 9/11 since I was pre-occupied with "other things" yesterday, so I included the poem above.

What a blessing it is for me to realize that we can know God is with us, even in our darkest moments in time. "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:35, 38-39) Praise God, we are conquerors through Him who loved us, even when there is so much tragedy and it seems the world is falling down around us!

Remembering 9/11 and a Biospy -- WHAT???

September 11th has once again come and gone. Next year, when it's 7th anniversary rolls around, are we going to be any more united as a nation? I will not give up praying for that to happen. We need to stand strong and be firm against the islamofascists who are trying to ruin our way of life. I wish those who get on the airwaves to whine about this country would just shut up or move out! I know, I know. We're a great democracy. We are entitled to our "freedom of speech", but listen people, I don't think we should be entitled to "freedom of stupidity"!!! There are real bad guys out there who want to kill us!! There are those who don't want our children to enjoy the American way of life! Let's unite and stop being politically correct. We must remain united in our efforts. Let's whip the enemies!

Now on to something a little more positive! I was so thrilled to visit several blogs tonight which included photos of their American Flags waving bravely in their yards. Each time I see our beloved flag's colors flying, it stirs my heart. I hope I never lose that sentiment. I love America and her people. It is still the greatest land by far, and we must guard that status.


Now about the Biopsy today!
Let me begin by stating:
VALIUM IS GOOD, VERY GOOD!
NERVOUS IS BAD, VERY BAD!
Did I say? VALIUM IS GOOD?

Minutes after signing into the Breast Care Center, I was taken back to be given my sedative. Did I mention yet that VALIUM is very good? LOL I had written several Bible verses on an index card to keep reading over and over during the wait time, but a few minutes after receiving the VALIUM, all my spirituality seemed to go out the window. I got the giggles! I guess the drug was starting to work. Minutes before I had been shaking my foot or twisting the rings on my fingers, but when the radiologist came to get me from the lobby, I started giggling! LOUDLY! My giggles were the deep, infectious kind; therefore, all the other patients in the lobby seemed to be giggling with me, or was it AT me?? I saw a few of the administrative staff giggling too! I rounded the corner with the nice lady and apologized for giggling, that I realized I now needed to stop giggling. She sweetly told me to just go on continuing giggling if I needed to!

I was led back to the ultra-sound room and given instructions. Once I lied down on the very comfortable bed, I wanted to sleep, especially since Harry Connick Jr. was singing. The nurse and I spoke about his cute smile and lovely southern accent! The technician got me taped up and marked for the Dr. He came in soon and introduced himself as Dr. Del Toro. I told him his voice was soft. He said it was the first time anyone had ever told him that! I guess I was nosy through out the biopsy because I know some fascinating things about Dr. Del Toro! He always drinks Diet Coke. He said he does it for the benefits of the caffeine. He hates coffee. I chided him about being a latino and not liking coffee. I'd never heard of such a thing! Is that even legal? I also learned that he just returned from a trip to Puerto Rico, which is probably why his voice was soft. He had been relaxing on vacation. He has never been seen chewing at the facility we were at today. The tech swore he never eats because in the 3 years she has worked with him, she has never seen him chew or eat anything!

I really can say in all seriousness though that I didn't feel any pain during the entire procedure! Thanks for all the sweet prayers! I could feel pressure at the beginning when he was inserting the first injection to numb me and then when he inserted the tube for the little chopper thing that sliced and diced the nodule. I kept my eyes closed most of the time. The lady before me had slept and snored through her biopsy I was told! Anyway, I heard what I thought was the sound of a drill. When the Dr. finished and all was quiet I asked if it was a drill he was using on me. He replied: "It was a Black and Decker." Then after a pause, he said he was really a dentist! Isn't that hilarious?? Later I was to find out the sound was the aspirator thingy he used.

After he left, the tech helped me to sit up. I noticed how nice my tanned legs looked in the low lighting in that room and struck up a conversation about that and how I had just spent a couple of weeks vacationing. The girls both agreed with me. "Yes, your tan looks lovely under these lights." After being helped into a standing position, I was instructed to pick up my clothes but leave on the pretty pink thing I was wearing. She then got hold of my arm to lead me down to mammography. I spotted her Crocs and they were flashing! I told her so too! She giggled and repeated to the nurse, "Kathy, she said my shoes were flashing!" As she led me down the hall, she told me I was drunk! I said, "But I don't drink." She replied, "Well you should because you're lots of fun like this!" What could I say except, "THE JOY OF THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH!"

I was put in a waiting room while the tech, her name is Vicki by the way, went to get Agustin. She gave him a few laughs by telling him I kept talking about some guy named Richard!! She also told him that I said he, (Agustin - not Richard!) was a beautiful person inside and out! Which is true, he is and I really did tell her.

I was then sent for a mammogram so the Dr. could see how much he actually got of the nodule. Guess what? It looks like he got it all! Praise the Lord! The cavity where it had been was quite noticeable. Of course, we will wait until Friday for the pathologist's findings to be reported, as there could be a few cells of it left. He did show me the original mammogram and ultra sound films which showed shadowy tendrils coming down from the nodule. I learned that is a common thing if the growth is cancer. He reassured me that the report does come back as cancer, at least we caught it early. That is always a good thing. Aguustin lead me out to the lobby where I happily announced to my mom and Shane that we were done there and it was time to go. I remember giggling all the way to the car while trying to share some of my conversations of the morning!

So I came home and slept off and on for 5 hours or so. I was instructed to put an ice pack on the incision for 15 minutes then off for 15. No shower for 2 days, sponge baths only, and wait until Friday to resume taking my NSAID. (Non Steroid Anti-Inflammatory Drug)

I actually had fun today and made some good memories. Thank you for your concern and prayers. They really mean the world to me and make me feel very special.

GOOD MONDAY MORNING!

I can't believe we are starting our second week of fourth grade today! Shane is loving all of his curriculum, SO FAR!!! I pray that continues. He received a 100% on his first Spelling Test Friday and only missed one problem on his math quiz!

Friends, once again, I would like to ask for your prayers. I've learned that you ladies (and few men) who read my blog, are people of prayer, so I present to you my next challenge.

I really should have shared this with you last Monday, the day I had to stop my medications for the Rheumatoid Arthritis. You see, this Tuesday, ( 9/11 ), I will be having a breast biopsy done. My meds can cause free bleeding, so for apparent reasons, I was told to discontinue them the week before the biopsy. I also had to discontinue my daily vitamin, due to it containing vitamin E, which can also cause bleeding.

Many of you probably remember that back in Nov. through May, I was in terrible pain and hardly slept at all. My old meds were no longer working for me. I turned to blogging as an escape from pain. I'd be up all hours of the night suffering. Thus, the title of my blog "MIDNIGHT MUSINGS".

Needless to say, without my anti-inflammatory and pain meds, I don't function well. The first day off of them this week, I must admit I was A-OK, but by Wednesday, I felt like I was in a full blown withdrawal. I had the chills and shakes and felt so weak. My joints began hurting and I was seeing joints swell up right before my very eyes! I couldn't concentrate and my speech was slurred; and all this while trying to get through the first week of homeschool with Shane. Oh, and did I mention I was really GRUMPY??? With the Lord's help, we did meet most of our schooling goals for the week. I know it was due to my church family and my dad's church family praying for me. I am some better now. What a sweet blessing to know that other's can approach my Heavenly Father on my behalf! It seems the withdrawal stage is over but I feel as though I have the flu and some joints are achy each day, and you guessed it -- I CAN'T SLEEP! I know this is only temporary. I was instructed to start my meds back up a few days after the biopsy, so I'm thinking around Friday.

A little sample of my swelling! and oh the pain in that middle finger especially!

NOW, what I would seek your prayers for right now is for me to get through one more week with minimal pain. Also that the biopsy goes well and the growth isn't malignant. God's will be done!

BLESSING IN A BOX !
The Leonard family picked Shane up for S.S. and church Sunday morning. Agustin was at work, I was in pain! When they brought Shane home after services, they also brought 3 delicious pizzas and 3 different types of sodas! YUM! I had never tried Papa John's Barbecue Pizza.

It was awesome and we all highly suggest it! Thanks Kim and Mike, Alex, and Ashley for being such a blessing! I also enjoyed their company as it helped get my mind off of me for an hour or so. Of course, since Mike was here, I got plenty of laughing in!!!

Here's Mike on New Year's Eve, 2006. No it's not what you think! The guy IS NOT drunk! The adornment of the little flashlight on his head was assisting him in his quest to find one of the girl's missing pieces of jewelry, which was lost while we were in the yard setting off fireworks.

PRAY HARDEST, WHEN ITS HARDEST TO PRAY

Hi Friends,

I came onto blogger to post a little about my recent vacations, but when I read the following letter in my email, my focus changed. Suddenly my vacation seemed so unimportant. I finished reading the letter with tears flowing. Read the letter I've included, and you'll see why. Have a blessed Lord's Day!

Love,

Pam

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Serving in Central African Republic for 35 Years
THE DALE BAKER'S
Your Part Our Part
To Pray and To Give To Pray and To Go

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Dearest Prayer-Partners: September 8, 2007

Yesterday, I had to get up at 5:30 AM to get Mary into the hospital by 7:30. She had to have more fluid removed from her abdominal area. We got back to my brother's house at 10:30. They removed 5 more liter's of fluid. This is the 7th time they removed fluid because of her liver which was non-functional. This made a total of 27.7 liter's. When I brought her home and got her settled down as I always did things just didn't seem the same as before. I made her a potato patty which she enjoyed and it set well with her. I stayed with her because I didn't want to leave her alone until Ethel and our daughter Lisa came in to stay with her so I could go to a commitment which I had to be at. I returned at 5 PM to be with Ethel and Mary. My brother Jerry comes home from work at about 7:30. My daughter Lisa had to go to pick up her daughter's at school. When I returned, I noticed that Mary was going down hill rapidly. At six o'clock I took her into the toilet after which I took her back to lie down. Immediately she said that she had to go to the toilet again. I took her in once again and she said, "Dale, don't leave me here alone." I stayed with her as I saw that she was not well at all. I was taking her back out to lie down in the living room when I noticed that her legs were giving out and she seemed to be fainting. Ethel called for the EMS while I was trying to hold her up. She got too heavy for me so I had to sit her on the floor. EMS arrived soon after and I was holding her up so she wouldn't fall down. They worked on her and very shortly after they said that she had passed away. This was at 6:55 PM! I believe that she actually died in my arms when she got so heavy for me to hold her up.
Thank you for your prayers for Mary!
His and Yours for Others,
Dale and Ethel

PS: OUR LOSS IS HEAVEN'S GAIN She is with the Lord

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BAPTIST NEW CHURCH MISSION
P.O. Box 802--Oneco, FL 34264-0802
Tel: [941] 744-1626
"Where Prayer Focuses, Power Falls"
PRAY HARDEST, WHEN IT'S HARDEST TO PRAY

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NOTE FROM PAM: Mary Baker served the Lord in Africa for many years. She has lived in a missionary retirement home in Bradenton, FL for several years now due to her age and health. Up until a couple of years ago, Mary still spoke at ladie's functions and missionary conferences. When my niece Jackie was young, Miss Mary had a marvelous influence on her!

What A Lady! What A Blessing!

Many of you have read about my friend Patti's battle with breast cancer. She recently had a double mastectomy and after her 2nd chemo treatment was hospitalized for a terrible abdominal infection and other things. Well, she was released to go home on Labor day after an eleven day stay at St. Joseph's hospital in Tampa. Her journal entry today has so encouraged me and has touched my heart beyond words. Please read and be blessed with me! I'm so happy to be able to post this most recent photo of her, taken just this week since her arrival home. I wanted you all to see her in her new, blonde wig which her insurance paid for. She is absolutely gorgeous! She doesn't look as though she has just been released from the hospital, does she? . God is so good!
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Dear Friends and Family,

Today was my 3rd treatment! Yippee...only 1 more to go!! Whoo-hoo!

If we stay on schedule, the last one will be Sept. 27th in 3 weeks. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. :-)

Dr. Weaver (my oncologist) decided this morning to go ahead with treatement as scheduled since I am feeling great and doing so well. He had consulted with my surgeon, and they thought as long as I'm feeling fine to go ahead. The surgeon did say that if I have a flair up of the diverticulitis again soon, it would probably mean surgery sooner than we planned (a few weeks after the last treatment is what he's hoping for).

So I am not going to take the stronger pain medications anymore since they had such a big part in contributing to the last hospital stay. I did need the red cell shot today because they were low, and will have to go tomorrow (Friday) for the white cell shot because they were too high....and that is the shot that give such bad flu-like aches.

So my prayer is that I will be ok not using the pain meds....would you please pray for that for me? This week I can take over the counter meds for pain; but starting next Thursday, 1 week out, I can't take the strong ones because they could mask the bacterial infection. We'll just pray and ask the Lord to get me through without those stronger drugs.

How blessed I feel when I go to the oncologist's office. There are so many people there that are such worse shape than me that I can't help but be thankful for "my" problems.

I was telling my choir last night that even though I do not know what the future holds for me, I have determined in my heart to keep the attitude that Job had:

"The Lord giveth, and taketh away; Blessed be the Name of the Lord."

Whatever test the Lord is putting me through, I do not want a C or even a B, but I want an A+! I have just made up my mind to make the best of it (I've always wanted to be a blonde!) and leave the rest up to the Lord.

Thank you again, dear friends, for taking the time to pray for me. It means so much to me that you would do that. My prayer is that the Lord will be glorified in everything that I do and say, and that people can see Jesus in me. That is my heart's desire.

Love to you all,

Patti

Enter Me Please!

Look below at all the goodies you can win if you'll simply click here to visit Christina's blog and leave a comment for her, asking to be entered in for the drawing.

Don't you just love the motto on the bumper sticker which will be included in the givaway? I once ordered some t-shirts for my son with the same motto on them.

Update on Patti

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to the many of you have sent me emails and left comments asking about my friend Patti. Here is her latest journal entry on her Care Bridge Page.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 03, 2007 08:53 AM, CDT

Dear Friends,

I'm home! I got to come home from the hospital yesterday afternoon after an 11 day stay. It is so good to be home.
I want to thank you for your thoughts and prayers, because they were surely answered. The Lord has been with me, and I am so thankful for that.
So, we'll see what my oncologist says tomorrow about having my 3rd treatment this coming Thursday as scheduled. He will probably put it off a week, as they said I need to be completely healed of this before having a chemo treatment, or it could send me back in the hospital.
After my 2 chemotherapy treatments are completed, we'll schedule a surgery to remove the bad part of my colon; and being an elective surgery, I shouldn't need a colostomy....whew! Gee, you turn 50 and start falling apart! :-)
It seems that I am in a cycle of having bad migraines....so my prayer request this week is to pray that when I go to my doctor this week, we find the right preventative medicine to kick me out of that cycle.
Here is a line from a prayer that I read this week that I want to share with you. It is my heart's desire:

Dear Lord,
Give me the strength that waits upon You in silence and peace. Give me humility in which alone is rest, and deliver me from pride which is the heaviest of burdens.
Possess my whole heart and soul with the simplicity of love. Occupy my whole life with the one thought and the one desire of love, that I may love not for the sake of merit, not for the sake of perfection, not for the sake of virtue, not for the sake of sanctity, but for You alone.
Let me use all things for one sole reason: to find my joy in giving You glory.

Prayerfully yours,
Patti

Thanks "Montana Moments" for Inspiring Us!

http://www.mymontanamoments.blogspot.com/

I'm BAAAAACK but not for long...

Hi you all! I returned home from Hunting Island, S.C. last night around 8. I've washed stinking, wet, beach clothes all day. My brother in law needed to get all his things laundered and repacked for our lovely 3 a.m. trip to Miami in a few hours! He needs to be there a few hours before his 11:40 flight! After returning home, I hope to rest and catch up on my blogging!

I've missed you all greatly! The island was beautiful and it was wonderful spending the week with my sis and her crew, however, we had no internet access and very rarely had a strong enough signal for our cell phones to function. There is a land line in the beach house in case of emergencies. Rita and I threatened to start "blogging" on paper and taping it to the laptop screen as a cheap thrill to replace our blogging.

Gotta run, more later!
Pam

Prayers Urgently Needed! Thanks!

I just received this update tonight concerning my dear friend Patti. A friend of hers from her church entered this into the Caring Bridge Journal for Patti tonight.

When I saw Patti this afternoon around 2p.m., she was putting on a strong face. I think all the pain is wearing her down. She is such a positive person, so to hear the following broke my heart. Please read and pray fervently. Thanks!


FRIDAY, AUGUST 24, 2007 08:21 PM, CDT

Hello everyone, I need to update everybody on what is going on with our Patti.
Patti has been in the hospital since last night, she is running a fever and has overwhelming pain, she says that from 1 to 10 it is a 15. The only thing they can give her is morphine and it has not help her at all. She also suspects there is something wrong with her kidneys, has pain especially when she goes to the bathroom. She describes the abdomen pain as much worse than last year's episode when she ended up in surgery, there is a strong possibility that she'll end up in surgery again. She is suffering and told me she is ready to give up. I said to her that she has a lot of work left to do for The Lord, many people to help and inspire with her beautiful, bright light.
She is asking all of you to pray for her very strongly,
especially for the pain to go away or at least to be less.
I don't like to see her cry because she is such a happy , joyful lady, and to see and hear the desperation in her voice and not be able to help her is horrible. I love her like the sister I never had and consider her an angel sent from God to rescue me at a very sad time in my life.
Again, please pray for her, ask your friends and loved ones to do the same, I'll update you as soon as we know what is wrong.

May God bless you and keep you safe,
Raisa

Hasta Luego!

It's official! We leave for the island in the morning! Actually in a few hours.

Today was so so very busy! We began the day looking at a model home near our neighborhood. One word: GORGEOUS!!!

-Went to the post office to stop our mail until next week.

-Went to Pharmacy to pick up 3 prescriptions.

-Went to pick up my mom at her house.

-Went to the hospital to visit two of my friends who went to the same hospital on the same day for my convenience! Can you believe that? LOL

-Went to Ross - bought nothing.

-Went to eat a late lunch at 2 p.m. Can anyone say"CHINESE"?

-Went to International Mall in Tampa, shopped til we dropped. Not us so much but hubby's brother is a shopper, let me tell ya'! Of course, he doesn't get to shop in the states very often and he wanted to get as much on his list as he could before we leave for S.C. When we return, he will only have one free day to finish up his shopping. We were there from 3p.m. til 8:30p.m.

-Took mom home.

-Stopped by hubby's store to pick up an 8 page FAX.

-Went to Walmart to purchase paper goods for the beach house.

-Came home and unloaded everything, put it away, cleaned out fridge, packed, dried a load of towels, paid a few bills, washed and put away some dishes, charged all cell phones and camera batteries, etc.

I'm so happy I was able to see Patti and Connie both today before leaving town. Patti is my friend who recently underwent a double mastectomy. After 2 chemo treatments, her bowels stopped, she became impacted and now has a bacterial infection. They admitted her into the hospital Thursday evening. She looked so tiny and weak lying there in that bed today, but her spirit is strong. Her hair had started falling out in clumps, so last week, she asked her son to shave her head the way he used to do his! She was wearing the cutest floppy denim hat with flowers embroidered on it! I wish you all could meet her and spend time with her! What a glowing testimony she has of God's peace! Her hubby was there, so it was good to see him too. Agustin prayed for her, in Spanish, as we all held hands. I cried.

Then we popped up 2 floors to see Connie who had emergency gall bladder surgery on Thursday. She looked well and rested. She told us several funny stories of happenings in the hospital. She had us laughing on several occassions! Connie has done so much for my family over the years I've known her. She truly is a giver and a thinker. She knows a need I may have before I realize it's a need! Her mom was sitting with her today. It was good to see her with hair! (the mom) She recently finished chemo for cancer and lost all her hair. It is now coming back thicker and prettier than ever!

Here's something cute I need to share with you all!

My dad called us today while we were at the mall to let us know he was headed over to the hospital to visit the 2 ladies mentioned above. Later when we took mom home, she and I walked into her house and dad said: "You're not going to believe me, but I have something to tell you. You know I went to see Patti today?" We made strange faces, shook our heads yes, and asked:"What did you do?" Dad continued: "Well I don't want this to sound strange but I thought Patti looked downright cute today!" I knew right away he was talking about her denim floppy hat! We all giggled. I asked him if he told her so. He said: "Why no! I'm not in the habit of going around telling women they look cute!" I laughed so hard! He's a pastor you know!

OKAY sorry so long, but there is one more thing I need to mention before I truly sign off for the week. Webutante has had a blogaster! (as in DISASTER on her blog!) She has asked me to tell all who read it that she has been "hacked" and has lost her blog. Below is part of an email she sent me today.

############################################################
Pam,

(partial email message to follow)

This is so frustrating, but have to believe, for some reason it's part of the Divine Plan.These scammers are bad news and I will write about it, when I get it back....

Please pray for me and if you can, let Rita and several others know what's happened to my blog. Don't know when or if I will ever be able to get it back. May have to start another one in a week or two....but I hope not! Hope you're well. Also I have a story on Fred Thompson at PajamasMedia.com today.

All best wishes, In Christ,

Jane

*********************************************************************************
Hasta Luego!
Pam

Update and Prayer Request!

As my "faithful" readers know, Agustin and I were supposed to go to Miami today to pick up his brother Elias. Well, my hubby and I were up and out of the house early this morning, around 6:30 a.m. We headed South to Sarasota. By then, we were so hungry, we stopped off at a Chik-Fil-A for a sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit and coffee of course!! After eating what we think was the most delicious biscuit in the world, we headed further south. As we neared Port Charlotte, the cell phone rang. His baby sister was letting us know that Elias had missed his flight! No fault of his own, mind you. Remember the hurricane that just hit Mexico? Although our family members are inland, it seems they did get a good drenching and even some flooding in their area due to heavy rainfall. Hence, the shuttle bus had difficulties getting the passengers from Queretaro to Mexico City on time! My hubby's first words were: "Poor Elias. He hates it when things don't go as planned!" We were told we would hear back from the family as soon as Elias had an alternate plan.

So what to do? Should we keep heading south toward Miami? Should we head home an hour and a half away? Should we take this Port Charlotte exit so I can show hubby where my very first apartment was?

I began with my chattering: "Oh and I can show you the school I taught in! Or we could drive out to Harbor Island and Fisherman's village. I could show you where one of my old boyfriend's used to live. I wonder if his house is really as nice as I used to think it was! He retired young from the Alaskan Pipeline and lived on the islands where the wealthy live. His home was so gorgeous! He had it decorated professionally." OOPS, I got quite an expression from dear hubby! I wasn't thinking was I? Me and my big mouth! So I concluded with: "We were never serious. He was too old for me anyway!" It all turned into a big laugh and hubby and I proceeded to have a nice drive.

Right when we were about take the Port Charlotte exit, the cell phone rang. It was hubby's brother. Plan B, could we possibly pick him up in Orlando at 3:45 this afternoon? Why, of course we can! That is so much less time on the road for us! So we got back on to I-75 North and headed home. Hubby is napping now and I think I will follow suit for a bit. We need to leave here around 1:30 ish.

Now about that prayer request. My sister and brother in law left early for the beach house in S.C. to spend some extra time with his aging dad who lives in Beaufort, S.C. which is near the island we are all headed to. God's timing is awesome! This morning, Clint (my BIL) received a call that his step mom, Mary, had been having horrific pain in her hip. She had both replaced a few years ago. Her son called the Dr. and had her pre-admitted this A.M. and Clint was able to swing by his dad's and get him to the hospital once he was ready. It appears Mary will need surgery to replace that hip which was already replaced. I think that is what I was told. When I called Clint's cell, he was at the hospital with his dad, Mary, and several family members who all live around Beaufort. You see, a cousin was also admitted to the same hospital this morning due to problems with the stints that are in his legs for circulation. I know Clint was following the leading of the Holy Spirit to go up there 3 days earlier than our initial plan. He can help drive his dad and others to and from the hospital and be there to minister as needed.

Thanks for your prayers. I may have a chance to check in one more time tonight before we head off for the Island tomorrow.

Blessings!
Pam

A Quick Check In!

Hi All!
I've been cleaning and packing today. Jungle Mom and Yekwana Man stopped by on their way up to S.C. to snag Shane and their daughter Jayde, who had been staying with us. We will be joining them this Saturday. First, we need to drive down to Miami early Thursday morning, where we will retrieve Agustin's brother. We will hang around Tampa on Friday and head off to S.C. on Saturday morning, with my Josh in tow! Josh Vernoy will drive up and join us at the beach house on Monday. Okay, does everyone have all that straight?? LOL Good, because I'm not sure that I do.

I just wanted to leave a quick note to remind you all that I won't have internet access for the next week. I KNOW!!! (gasp, gasp) I'm sure I'll be fine though because I will be surrounded by family/people of all ages and family/people of all sizes!!! LOL

I thought I would leave you all with a few of my favorite photos from the family vacation on Hunting Island last August. I'm sure I'll have plenty new ones when I come back next week!

Jungle Mom with baby Elena! We'll miss them (Brian, Jackie, Elena and now Baby Abbie)so much this year! 2006
Jewel and Princess Elena in the Beach House-Hunting Island, S.C. 2006
Clint with his dad and Mary-2006
Josh with Elena-2006
Agustin and I, our last morning at the Island. It was wet and windy! 2006

Mom and Son-2006
Jayde with some shells-2006
Shane on a stroll on the island, pinecone in hand-2006
The entrance onto the Island-I think it's just beautiful and so very peaceful!

I'm off to bed since I have a long day ahead tomorrow. God bless each and every one of you.

Love and Prayers,
Pam

I'm Just Tickled Pink!

It was so nice to return home from my beach vacation with mom and her sisters and find this lovely award awaiting me from Mrs. B!!! She thinks I'm nice! Now if any of you have not been introduced to Mrs. B's blog yet you simply must make it a priority in life to visit there! You will find her to be VERY NICE and CHRISTLIKE! It's a comfort to visit her via her blog. I promise, you will come away having learned something or being refreshed spiritually. I found Mrs. B's blog early on in my blogging experience. She is a daily MUST READ for me! For me to receive this "NICE MATTERS" award from her is the epitome of blogging for me. Be still my soul!!


Now I would love to introduce you to some ladies whom I think are down right nice!

First: Jennifer at Pen of Jen
She can put her opinion out there, but yet you feel her compassion and desire to see us all living in a better world. She is so nice that she once called me long distance! YES! It was a real high light in my life. She was just as nice on the phone as she seems on her blog. I think she has the spiritual gift of "encouraging"!!

Next: Candy at At Home With Candy
She comes through on her blog as a most endearing little thing! She seems so feminine and kind. I once received a beautiful card in the mail from her with a couple of sweet mementos and notes. I have them tucked away safely in my "scrap booking" box. Hopefully I'll get to do a page with them one day soon.

Then: Kat at Just A Beach Kat
This dear lady has been such a spiritual encouragement to me by way of Bible scriptures and personal emails. Kat is a breast cancer survivor and is praying for me as I face my biopsy upcoming biopsy. It so amazes me how I can feel a closeness to her and all of you really, even though we have never met face to face. Isn't' God so amazing?

Enjoy your awards ladies. I'm enjoying mine!

I'm BAAAACK!

Hi there!

We are all back safely in our homes and boy has it been a busy few days since our return. I haven't even had time to post here. I hope to get some photos of our trip on here in a day or so. It was all good! My mom, my aunts, my cousin, Shane and I had so many laughs and so many good memories were made. I'm so thankful to my sweet Lord for traveling mercies and for keeping each of us in his tender care this past week.

We are preparing our curriculum/school room. Shane starts 4th grade this year! I've been thinking alot about my friend Kim, as she started back to work in early August. She will be teaching Kindergarten this year rather than first grade. Classes at our church's small Christian school started August 13!!

We are preparing for one more vacation also. Agustin has 10 days off. His brother is flying in from Mexico on Thursday, then we will head up to Hunting Island, S.C. with my sister and her family for a week at the beach house. I don't know if we will have interent access there or not, soooo, I really need to post some photos for you all before I take off again don't I? LOL

I will write a more interesting post soon. It's late and I have another busy day tomorrow. Please don't forget to come by and check on me this week. I really love all of your visits!

Give a listen to my friend Amber, (she's wearing pink) singing "The Master of the Wind" with a couple of traveling friends in her ensemble this summer.


God bless you as you begin a new week!
Pam

CHECK OUT WHERE I'LL BE THIS WEEK!

Hey Friends!

It's after midnight and I'm exhausted. I've heard from my aunts and cousin who are driving down from West Virginia for this coming week of vacation in Pompano Beach, FL. They will be spending tonight in Daytona Beach, enjoying the beach a little tomorrow before finishing their long drive down to the condo. I think they have about 5 more hours to drive tomorrow.

There has been a little change in our plan! It is no longer an ALL GIRLS vacation! Two of my relatives couldn't make the trip due to some new health issues, so now there is some extra space in the condo. While on the cell this afternoon, getting the address of the condo, my aunts were all asking for me to bring Shane with me. When I asked him if he would like to join us, he was all happy smiles and brimming with excitement!! Boy did he ever want to join us!! The only problem is that now Grandpa is a little let down and I think cousin Jayde will be as well. Shane was going to split his time between the two while Agustin worked. This change in plans meant that after supper, Agustin had to find a place for Shane to get his hair cut! I looked up a number for the Super Walmart in our area that has a hair salon right in the front door. Sure enough, they were opened until 9p.m., so for the first time ever, a member of our family got their haircut at Walmart!! Well, I think the salon is a separate entity, but located inside the Walmart. Shane came home with a VERY short, but fresh looking head of hair. Now I still have to pack for him.

On top of all that, the realtor called and wants to show our house at 9:30 a.m. Sunday morning! So I ended up doing a little deeper cleaning than I had intended on doing before my trip! (I know, I haven't told you all yet, but our house is on the market, as we are about to enter into a different season of life, and need something larger.) NO, I'M NOT EXPECTING! LOL I will share more in the future about our plans.

We will head out after church and a little going away party for Grace Bowden, one of our college bound girls. In true BAPTIST form, we are having a "dinner on the grounds" tomorrow after services. Grace requested that I make my banana pudding, so how could I resist?

We will have about a 4 hour drive over to Pompano. Not bad at all! Come on down for a visit by clicking on the following link!

https://www.fairfieldresorts.com/ffr/resort/details.do

Odds and Ends!

Kelli is hosting her weekly Show and Tell again this week. Click on over and join in on the fun!

For Show & Tell this week, I thought I would show you our friendly neighborhood peacock! Isn't he/she a beauty?



One day last year, I heard a strange sound coming from our back patio. It sounded as though someone was scratching at our sliding glass doors! I opened the blinds and much to my amazement, this beautiful peacock was there staring at me. I called Agustin and Shane to come take a look.

I said, "Let's feed it so it will come back another day!" "What can we feed it?"

Agustin suggested a corn tortilla since birds like grains. He ran and got one, then proceeded to tear it into small pieces. The peacock actually ate some of it! And I'm happy to say that Mr./Mrs. Peacock has visited us many times since then. Nobody seems to know who owns this beautiful bird, but it is always a pleasant surprise to find it tolling around in our neighborhood, especially our backyard!
Now I'm changing gears a bit!

Sunday after church, I'll be leaving town for a week's vacation in Pompano Beach. It is to be a GIRLIE vacation! No men allowed! My aunt has invited all of her sisters and nieces down to enjoy the amenities at her timeshare, and hopefully to enjoy each other. "Each other" will be my favorite part, but I may sneak in one of those Swedish Massages!

Anyway, I'm telling you all this to let you know that I probably won't be blogging during the next week unless I play a Susan, from over at Penless Writer, and sneak around at night to find a computer to post and blog on!! (Susan was up blogging in the middle of the night, in her hotel business center while on her vacation!) Love Ya' Susan!

Have a super weekend.
Lots of Love,
Pam

OKAY, not finished yet!

I thought I'd end this post with a joke. First, think about this. How will you be remembered by your hubby if you pass on first? *winks*

As with many funerals, it was a cloudy, rainy day. The deceased was a little old lady who had devoted her entire married life to fussing at her poor husband. When the graveside service had no more than terminated, there was a tremendous burst of thunder accompanied by a distant lightning bolt and more rumbling thunder. The little old man looked at the pastor and calmly said, 'Well, she's there.'

HELP! I'm Invisible!

I have tried several times to view my blog tonight. It acts as though it loads, then when the word DONE shows, there is nothing but a blank screen staring at me. YIKES!

I am able to view my profile and customize pages, and obviously the NEW POST page. Can you all see my blog?

Please leave comments if you can or if you have ever had this happen to you. I have it set up so that I will recieve you comments in the form of an email. I sure hope I haven't lost my last 10 months of journaling!

Blogging Across America

I came across this article in a small newspaper that comes to the house. Because I'm hooked on blogging, I found this to be a fun read. Maybe you too will find it amusing!


Personal Web Logs Catch the Nation by Storm
By Mark Abromaitis
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

It's news. It's opinion. And it's someone's personal diary, open for the world to see.

"Blogs" -- or personal web pages full of opinion, news, and links to other unique web-sites--are catching the nation by storm.

Once a rarity, because of the difficulty of creating web pages, advances in software technology have made personal Internet publishing easy. And readers are checking them out to get the inside scoop on news. politics, business secrets, or just to be entertained.

"The beauty of blogs is that they give every person a voice," John Makowski, director of news media for Erickson Retirement communities, says. "Before, the average person was less likely to have their own website. Now, anyone with access to the Internet can share their thoughts, opinions, and takes on the world."

A SIMPLE BEGINNING

Blog--the word gained popularity in the early 1990'2 when many say it evolved from the term for an online diary, or "Web Log." No one knows exactly who coined the phrase, but now the word and every one of its forms are heard in everyday conversation.

Early bloggers began by posting their thoughts or observations about the day. Blogging gained popularity and punch when independent journalist Matt Drudge began breaking news on his own, not answering to an editor or publisher but being surprisingly accurate.

By 2000, blogs were catching on everywhere. In 2004, accusations of both liberal and conservative political media bias and a heated presidential election pushed individuals to publish their own takes on the news. More blogs began to pop up all over the Internet.

Today, blogging is not just limited to news or politics. Amateur reporters, political candidates, and everyone in between are getting in on the act. Brad Hill, author of the book, Blogging for Dummies, estimates that 70 million unique blogs exist already and that 16% of Americans read them on a daily basis.

And there are blogs that cater to every interest.

A GROWING PHENOMENON

Joe Fino, computer expert and columnist for The Erickson Tribune, says, "Today, there are blog websites packed with links, ideas, and users making arguments that used to belong solely to established news outlets. If a topic exists, there is probably a blog out there to cover it."

WHERE IS IS GOING?

Today, websites that give instant feedback and make instant exchange possible are among the most visited on the Web. Websites like http://www.myspace.com/ have made blogging easy, accessible, and mainstream. Even corporations are starting their own blogs. It's not uncommon to be able to read the thoughts of a CEO or president of a company.

"People can express what's on their minds and companies can get instant feedback on their products," Makowski explains. "What better way to figure out if a business is worth investing in than by reading the thoughts of the CEO? People can really see what a company stands for, straight from the horse's mouth."

TO EACH, HIS OWN

And the phenomenon is still evolving. Popular sites like http://www.blogger.com/ and http://www.livejournal.com/ are making blogs easy and accessible to everyone.

"Blogs come to life with the temperament of their writers and reach us in a way that newspapers and magazines do not," Fino says. "Blogs can be personal journals kept online, or they can be free form journals about any topic imaginable."

A Must See Wedding Video!

A Groom gets out some of his pent up emotions right about the time the pastor tries to pronounce the couple as husband and wife. This is hilarious! I was rolling on the floor laughing! Just click on the link below for a good giggle!

http://video.aol.com/video-detail/id/1511957441

Star Gazing!

Usually Agustin and I take our walk in the morning or evening, but never after dark. Tonight was different. We have been alone since Friday night, so we went to supper at Red Lobster, planning on using a gift card that someone gave us. However, the manager footed our bill so we still have our gift card to use during vacation at the end of August. God is so good to us! Anyway, back to my topic! My hubby and I took our walk after dark, which we never do. The night sky was so clear and the stars were just a twinkling so beautifully. Hubby told me to just look up and enjoy the stars. We went on to discuss how we just don't enjoy nature and God's creation the way we should. It was nice to walk the streets of our neighborhood, hand in hand, enjoying the stars and each other. I plan on doing it again real soon!

What about you? When or where did you last take time to enjoy, study, or revel in God's creation?

Psalm 19:1
"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork."

It's About Time!

Shane has posted on his blog. Please click
HERE to read about one of his vacation experiences. He would love to find some comments there waiting for him tomorrow! Thanks everyone. You all are the greatest!

Vacation Bible School - June 2007

Welcome to Show and Tell Friday!" Do you have a something special to share with us? It could be a trinket from grade school, a piece of jewelry, an antique find. Your show and tell can be old or new. Use your imagination and dig through those old boxes in your closet if you have to! Feel free to share pictures and if there's a story behind your special something, that's even better!

Join us by signing up at

There's No Place Like Home I've been wanting to do a post about our Vacation Bible School for some time now. Since summer is almost over, I thought I would just use this opportunity during Show and Tell to share with you our wonderful week we had in God's house back in June!

Mr. and Mrs. Arnold travel all over the United States, directing VBS, revivals, etc. We were honored to have them back again this year at our church for this summer's Vacation Bible School! Isn't her smile just delightful? Please pray for Bro. Arnold as he is fighting some health issues.
I'd like to introduce to you "Felicia the Fox"!! Mrs. Arnold did her voice. The giggle was to die for and Felicia would try to sing REALLY high pitches. It was hilarious. The kids would just look at each other and giggle.

Some of our kiddos holding the visualized "Wordless Book"!

Brother Arnold beginning to perform his chalk art.

One night, he drew Joseph in his coat of many colors!

Shane won this piece of art by Brother Arnold by bringing the most visitors to VBS! It represents the Garden of Eden. When placed under a black light, you will see Jesus hanging on the cross for our sins.

Brother Jon Yates leading us in the opening exercises with the help of the kiddos of course! On the last night of VBS, Shane was pleased to be asked to come up and hold the Bible.

A couple of the men were called on to come hold up a song!

Oh my, you simply must meet "Milly" and "Lily" some day. They had a comical way of reviewing the lesson from the night before and setting up the new lesson.

Some of our moms helping out!

Mrs. Arnold teaching the memory verse. She is one awesome and talented lady. She sings, does puppets, acts the part of Milly, teaches the Bible verses, plays piano while her husband is doing his chalk art, etc. and all with a great, big, ol' beautiful Christ like smile. She never seemed tired or preoccupied.

The best thing about VBS this year is that we had several children accept Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. Right now the number of children escapes my mind, but God knows who they are!

I'm On Cloud Nine, Oops, No- Make That Cloud Ten!!!

You may be wondering why I'm so happy and wearing a big, happy grin. Well since you asked, I'll tell you!!!

Jennifer from PEN OF JEN called me yesterday afternoon! If you've never visited her blog or it has been awhile, then by all means, run, do not walk, over there by simply clicking HERE. You will enjoy her intelligent and succinct writing style, whether her topic of the day is about homeschooling, parenting,Christ, the Word of God, or even politics!

I've tried to relive the surprise event in my mind ever since last evening. Yes, even in church last night, I found it hard to keep my mind on the sermon! (Sorry Pastor Naill, but you must understand, a famous bloggity friend called my house!) Anyway, back to the event! As I relived it, I recall squealing like a stuck pig as soon as she told me who she was! If I hurt her ears, she was so kind as not to mention it! Then I remember trying to calm myself. Now that was hard! My mind was racing! "I have so much I want to ask her, where should I begin?" But alas, my worrying was in vain, because you see, it seems Jen likes to talk as much as I do!! So...it was "give and take" with choosing the topics of conversation! LOL I think we hit 100 different topics. We both were so random! Asked her later on her blog if she thought we finished discussing any topic! Then I did get a little distracted toward the end of our phone visit due to my hubby pointing to his watch as a signal to get ready for church because our time for departure was drawing near!

I rushed off to our bedroom but kept talking as I tried to shrug off my shirt and take off my culottes. My mind began rushing again, wondering, "What can I choose to wear that won't require me to miss a second of this treasured phone call?" I then spotted my favorite black , slippery, slip-on dress. Easy choice, or so I thought; no buttons, or zipper, or belt! I managed to put my slip on, then my dress, choose a necklace, put on silver slip-on shoes and some lipstick all with one hand and one ear! (meaning, I kept the phone stuck to my ear!) However, I did put my dress on backwards TWICE!! After the first time, I took out my arms, and shimmied it around, or so I thought. After fighting my way back into it, I realized it was still on backwards! I never let on to Jen about all this, except once or twice, when my super long necklace, which I loop around my neck three times for varying lengths, got all tangled up with the phone and must have made a horrific noise as it grated across the phone a few times! I think I said something like, "Oh sorry, my necklace got tangled on the phone somehow!" SOMEHOW?? Good Gravy, I was practically doing acrobatic stunts while getting ready for church! I am literally laughing out loud right now just imagining how I must have looked, so attached to that phone and so attached to EVERY word that Jen was saying! It truly was a treasure and I wanted to relish every moment of it!

Thanks Jen for making my day! What I didn't tell you was that your call came on the perfect day! I needed some encouragement from a godly fellow Christian; and you are SO much of an encourager. I love your spirit, your voice, your attitude, and your talent! God bless you for giving me such a wonderful gift Wednesday and for boosting me on up to Cloud Ten!!!

I'm TIRED!

Oh my you all! I didn't stop all day! I vacuumed this entire house, even pulled out some furniture on my own. I'm ecstatic about this, because you see, about 3 months ago I could barely get out of bed or bathe myself. My hubby was even helping me get dressed on most days. So to be able to pull out a couch and vacuum with my big ol' KIRBY vacuum cleaner is a full blown miracle for me.

Today I also:
*Dusted every flat surface in the house, but of course had help from Shane. He loves using the swiffer dusting wand.

*Dusted and windexed each slat of my Key West blinds in both of my bedroom windows.

*Cleaned both windows.

*Scrubbed and disinfected both bathrooms, mopped floors, cleaned mirrors, washed decorative towels.

*Changed 3 lamps around to look better in other rooms.

*Changed phone base and extra handset to different rooms for easier access.

*Had Shane clean all the papers and misc. stuff off my desk. Yes, he put it all in a huge Olive Garden take out bag for me and I still have to file many paper and pay many bills, but the desk got dusted and looks great for the moment!

*Made a new arrangement for the middle of the breakfast nook table.

*Ate Chinese take out for supper. I forgot to lay out my chicken so I called my back up, hubby, to please bring some food home!

*Took a long soaker in my garden tub. I love HOT water!

How was your Tuesday? I'm looking forward to seeing all my friends at church tonight for prayer meeting. Have a great rest of the week everybody!