Happy New Year

Happy New Year!!!

As the this year comes to an end and we begin anew in 2009, I'd like to dedicate a little time to remember and give thanks to God for His marvelous provision, His mighty protection, and His magnificent purposes that were fulfilled in our lives during this year.

After 30 years of marriage, my youngest son became a senior this year! Where does the time go? I'm not a car-pooling mom any more; he now drives himself to school. Now this a milestone for me.

~Joel David~

I found out I was going to be a grandmother for the fourth time this year, and to our delight God blessed us with Cole Dillon, our first grandson!

(Isn't he precious?)

This past summer we witnessed God's provision in such an unexpected way when my husband was called away to work in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on a flood disaster recovery project for three months. Little did we know much we would need that bonus after Hurricane Gustav blew through Baton Rouge.

(Rick managed a little fun while he was there!)

The Lord was faithful to protect us during that storm, and even though a tree fell on our house, the Lord sent the right men at the right time to repair our home, and for this we give thanks.

My third son Joseph left to teach in Asia this year. Releasing him to fulfill his dreams and purpose was difficult. God's grace was sufficient once again. Joseph is now in Australia. He's goal is to see the world!

(I miss you so much Joseph!)

Jordan's check up at St. Jude was good once again. I never take for granted the fact that he is still in remission. God's purpose was fulfilled, and we gave thanks.

A prayer request was granted when I was invited to join a Beth Moore Breaking Free Bible study this year. God is continually opening doors and drawing me closer to Him as I yield myself to His plans and study His Word.

I’m also grateful for our first snow in so many years. What a delightful December surprise for us Louisianans!!

Finally, I got to know many of you out there more personally. My life has been so enriched ever since I began blogging. What a special sisterhood this has become in my life. I have learned so much from all of your experiences. I'm touched by your comments, and helped by your prayers. As Paris Twila sings, "How beautiful is the body of Christ"...

And now we get the chance to begin again in 2009. How exciting it is to imagine all that God has planned for us in this New Year.

In Revelations 21:5 we have this special promise:

"And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new."—


To think that the creator of Heaven and Earth has promises us that no matter where we have been, or what we have gone through, His power is there to “Make all things new”.

Faithfully he will guide our steps as we journey through this New Year. We can trust Him and have confidence that our future rests completely in His hands.


I am praying that God's greatest blessings will be poured out upon your life and your family in 2009.

His Grace Is Enough

(Please remember to mute my music player!)

Today I've chosen a song from Hillsong's new CD, "This is our God". I bought the DVD for my son Jordan as a Christmas gift. Now we've been watching it day and night since he opened it on Christmas morning. Talk about some anointed music, this new release is really a powerful expression of praise to God. I pray you will feel the heart of God as you worship Him.

My son Joseph is now living in Sydney, only a short way from this awesome church. We are encouraging him daily to attend Hillsong while he is living there in Sydney. Please believe with us he will make it for a service! If I only had the opportunity, I would be there in a flash.

Hope you enjoy this song as much as I do.

Blessings to you my precious friends~

Join us to day over at Signs Miracles and Wonders for more great worship songs.

Merry Christmas

Gracious Lord Jesus, today we begin our celebration of Christmas. The waiting of Advent is over. Now we focus on the incredible good news of your birth.We are amazed, Lord, that you came among us as a human being. Yet how much more astonishing that you were born in the humblest of settings, with a food trough as your first bed. All praise be to you, Lord Jesus, because you were willing to humble yourself for our sake.Thank you, dear Lord, for becoming one of us, for entering into our weakness and vulnerability. You were just like us, only without sin. You understand what it’s like when we feel small and insignificant, or when we feel unprotected and weak. All praise be to you, Lord Jesus, for your birth! We celebrate you this day and in the days to come. Merry Christmas, Lord! Amen.

(Mark D. Roberts)

A Very Special Day

Today for my “In Other Words” post, I would like to dedicate a quote to someone I hold very near and dear to my heart, my wonderful husband!

Albert Einstein once said:

“Only a life lived for others is worth living.”

Over the last 32 years of my life I've had the privilege of witnessing this quote lived out right before my eyes. Of the many awesome qualities I could use to describe my husband, the gift of serving others would have to be number one.

When I tell people I've raised five sons, I must say many times I get eyebrows raised. People say, “How did you do it?” I can tell you; I never could have done it without all the help and support Rick has been to me.

I could go on and on naming all the ways he has made my life so much better, but you would tire from reading the list. The amazing part is they all would be true!

So today I would just like to say, “THANK YOU” Rick for being such a godly witness to me, a loving husband, a dedicated father to your children, and now even our grand-children. I truly appreciate the way you live your life for others.

I'd also like to wish you a Happy Birthday. Being born on Christmas Eve, your birthday often gets passed over by many, and you never complain. But at this Christmas season, I want you to know how much of a gift you have been to me.

I love you, and will forever give thanks for the day God brought you into my life.

A Special Announcement...

Come join me today over at the Internet Cafe, I have some great news for you!


And I could not pass up joining in on Friday Funnies. Still looking for that perfect gift for a man in your life? Here's some great suggestions:


Shopping Rules for Men's Gifts

Rule #1: When in doubt - buy him a cordless drill. It does not matter if he already has one. I have a friend who owns 17 and he has yet to complain. As a man, you can never have too many cordless drills. No one knows why.

Rule #2: If you cannot afford a cordless drill, buy him anything with the word ratchet or socket in it. Men love saying those two words. "Hey George, can I borrow your ratchet?" "OK. "By-the-way, are you through with my 3/8-inch socket yet?" Again, no one knows why.

Rule #3: If you are really, really broke, buy him anything for his car. A 99-cent ice scraper, a small bottle of deicer or something to hang from his rear view mirror. Men love gifts for their cars. No one knows why.

Rule #4: Do not buy men socks. Do not buy men ties. And never buy men bathrobes. I was told that if God had wanted men to wear bathrobes, he wouldn't have invented Jockey shorts.

Rule #5: You can buy men new remote controls to replace the ones they have worn out. If you have a lot of money buy your man a big-screen TV with the little picture in the corner. Watch him go wild as he flips, and flips, and flips.

Rule #6: Do not buy any man industrial-sized canisters of after shave or deodorant. I'm told they do not stink - they are earthy.

Rule #7: Buy men label makers. Almost as good as cordless drills. Within a couple of weeks there will be labels absolutely everywhere. Socks. Shorts. Cups. Saucers. Door. Lock. Sink. You get the idea. No one knows why.

Rule #9: Never buy a man anything that says "some assembly required" on the box. It will ruin his Special Day and he will always have parts left over. (now my husband LOVES directions!)

Rule #10: Good places to shop for men include Northwest Iron Works, Parr Lumber, Home Depot, John Deere, Valley RV Center, and Les Schwab Tire. (NAPA Auto Parts and Sears' Clearance Centers are also excellent men's stores. It doesn't matter if he doesn't know what it is. "From NAPA Auto, eh? Must be something I need. Hey! Isn't this a starter for a '68 Ford Fairlane? Wow! Thanks.")

Rule #10: Men enjoy danger. That's why they never cook - but they will barbecue. Get him a monster barbecue with a 100-pound propane tank. Tell him the gas line leaks. "Oh the thrill! The challenge! Who wants a hamburger?"

Rule #11: Men love chainsaws. Never, ever, buy a man you love a chainsaw. If you don't know why - please refer to Rule #7 and what happens when he gets a label maker.

Rule #12: It's hard to beat a really good wheelbarrow or an aluminum extension ladder. Never buy a real man a step ladder. It must be an extension ladder. No one knows why.

Rule #13: Rope. Men love rope. It takes us back to our cowboy origins, or at least The Boy Scouts. Nothing says love like a hundred feet of 3/8" manila rope. No one knows why.

Hope this was helpful ladies! Join us today over at The Homesteaders Heart for so more laughter.

Songs of the Season

Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our god; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful.Psalm 147:1

On this Thankful Thursday I'd like to share an except from a devotional I received yesterday. I pray it'll bless you as you discover why Christmas is characterized by a season of songs.

So today, I give thanks for all the many hymns that were written to bring praise and glory to our King!

If anything characterizes the Christmas season, it is music—especially George Frideric Handel's Messiah. But in addition to formal choral presentations, there are the traditional Christmas hymns sung by choirs in churches and by carolers in neighborhoods.

How did Christmas become the season of glorious songs? Besides the fact that music is woven into the fabric of the Old Testament, beginning with the song of celebration following the Exodus from Egypt (Exodus 15), the first Christmas was marked by psalm-singing and songs. Mary said what is now called the Magnificat when she visited Elizabeth (Luke 1:46-56), and Zechariah lifted his voice in praise when his son John (the Baptist) was born (Luke 1:67-79). And when Jesus' parents presented him in the temple, Simeon spoke a song of praise (Luke 2:29-32). All of these songs are crowned by the glorious words the angels declared to the shepherds (Luke 2:13-14).

This Christmas season, don't fail to lift your voice in song as you praise God for the indescribable gift of His Son, Jesus Christ.

My ready tongue makes haste to sing the glories of my heavenly King. Charles Wesley

Please join other grateful hearts today over at Grace Alone.

Without Description

This is the time of year when we are concerned about choosing just the right Christmas gifts to give to the special people in our lives. But let me ask you, "Have you ever received an indescribable gift?"

In the fullness of time God sent His only begotten Son, as a baby.

Indescribable!

But the good news is that you don’t have to be able to describe Him to accept Him. You just have to be warmed & changed by Him. So make your journey to the manger with the shepherds. Take Him into your heart & accept God’s indescribable gift for you. If you have never recieved this wonderful gift why not accept Jesus today.

Join us today over at The 160 Acrewoods for more beautiful scriptures and graphics. You will be blessed, I promise!

And the Winners are...

And the Winners of the Holiday Expo Give-a-Way are:

Laurie Ann over at Magnolia Heartbeats, (oh Laurie, I was THRILLED to see you loved Happy when your name was chosen!)

&

Andrea at The Honest Woman. (another neat surprise, my friend Amy Bayliss' sister!) I hope you enjoy the scrapbook.

Thank you all for leaving a comment. I really enjoyed reading your favorite colognes.

Friday Funnies

OK ladies, this is the desk I'm getting for Christmas!!

Join us over at Homesteaders Heart for more silliness~

PS I'll be announcing my winner for the Holiday Expo Give-a-Way this evening!

A Cajun Winter Wonderland!

“I love you, O Lord, my strength.The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,and I am saved from my enemies.”~ Psalm 18:1-3

On this Thankful Thursday the North Pole has come to Louisiana! Yes, you read that right. We woke up this morning to watch the most beautiful fluffy snowflakes falling down.

Oh my, what a rare treat for us here down south.

Believe it or not, the forecast for the weekend is in the mid 70's!

Here's a few pictures I took earlier, let it snow, let it snow!

Please join us today at Grace Alone to see what other grateful hearts are giving God praise for.

Our Everlasting Light

No matter what you are facing, we always have the promise Jesus will be near. He will never leave us, nor forsake us. As I was reading Tammy's post over at My Heart...His Words today, this truth was so clearly portrayed. Please take a moment to stop by and visit her as she shares a message, There is Always A Bright Side.

Today is Word Filled Wednesday, join us over at 160 Acrewoods

A Whole Lot More!

One of my very special blogging friends is hosting “In Other Words” over at I Will Take It Lord, All You Have to Give. I think anyone who has visited Lori's blog would agree that she is one very talented lady. Please join us today as we share our thoughts on this precious quote by Dr. Seuss.

Lori, I love your heart and the way you use your gifts to glorify the Lord. It's been such a joy to get to know you.

“Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn't come from a store.” “Maybe
Christmas...perhaps...means a ‘little bit’ more.” Dr. Seuss

Oh, what a great classic and wonderful message the story of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" portrays. This is a story that both young and old can never hear enough of. I have fond memories over the years of reading this book to my children and seeing how it captured their hearts! I love the message it tells about how greed and materialism is not what Christmas is all about. Maybe it’s not just about a ‘little bit’ more, but really about a ‘whole lot’ more!

Could words ever say how much Jesus really did for us?

This past weekend I got together with some special friends and family at my annual “Christmas Tea”. Even though it takes a lot of planning, this has been a tradition I have looked forward to for many years. This year Lori (our host today) used her talent to make our beautiful invitations. Now that’s its over and done, I'm already planning for next year’s tea in my mind. During Christmas time we all know how easy it is to get caught up with so many distractions, obligations, and deadlines. Without realizing it we can loose focus of the true meaning of what it is that we celebrate. Buying gifts and getting together with those we love is such a blessing, but in all we do, may we never forget Jesus our Messiah, who came to save us all.

I wanted to conclude by sharing a few special memories that we made this past weekend. Thank you all for taking time out of your busy schedules to join me today. I cherish our friendship and look forward to all that God has in store for us in 2009.

(please mute my music player before viewing pictures!)

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Friday Funnies

With Christmas coming up, I thought I'd share some holiday humor. Hope you have a wonderful weekend.

And, OH...please sign up for my give a way below. The Cafe is hosting at Holiday Expo now!

An elementary school teacher asked her students to write the words to their favorite holiday songs. Here are some of the humorous lines she received:

Later on we'll perspire as we dream by the fire.
We three kings of porridge and tar...
He's makin a list, chicken and rice.
Noel. Noel. Barney's the king of Israel.
With the jelly toast proclaim...
Frosty the Snowman is a ferret elf, I say.
Sleep in heavenly peas.
You'll go down in listerine.
Oh, what fun it is to ride with one horse, soap and hay.
Oh, come, froggy faithful...

Join us today over at Homesteaders Heart for more funnies!

Sharing God's Goodness

Hi Ladies,

I've got two things going on today, first my Thankful Thursday post, and an exciting give-a-way at the Cafe. So I'll start out by giving God praise for the countless good things He continues to do in my life daily.

♥ I'm so thrilled to announce that on Tuesday the contractor and crew finally concluded our renovations! This has been a long drawn out project since Hurricane Gustav hit us on Sept. 1st. The Lord was so good to send us a group of Christian men to do this job. Now it's time to put our house back together once again.

♥ We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with our family, and as always it was so nice to see everyone. I'm still stuffed.

♥ I'm thankful that this coming weekend I'll have the opportunity to get together with many of my friends from back home. I'll be hosting my annual "Christmas Tea". This is a tradition I started over 12 years ago. It's always the perfect way to start our Christmas season. I promise to share some pictures.

♥ Finally, I'm grateful for all of you who take time to stop by and leave such kind comments. Gosh, it's been such a delight to get to know you.

Now, let me share with you what's going on over at the Internet Cafe. Today is the Cafe Holiday Expo and we'll get into the Christmas spirit by giving away some amazing gifts.

You'll need to hop over there and check it out!

I thought I'd give somethings that I really enjoy myself, cologne. Yes, I'm a person who just loves different scents. If you visited my home you would smell the aroma of candles or oils burning. You would also see a nice collection of colognes proudly displayed on my dresser.

One of my favorite colognes is Happy Heart by Clinique. I choose this as my give-a-way because it's light, fresh, and it puts me in a really good mood.

I also want to bless someone with a pre-made Christmas Scrapbook. This is made by Hallmark and it is really nice! I made one last year and it came out beautiful. This is perfect for those of you who love the look of a scrapbook, but just don't have the time to make one.

Now, to win these gifts, all you have to do in the comment section is let me know what your favorite cologne is. I'll enter your name in for a chance to win these gifts. Yes, it's that simple. I'll see you over at the Cafe!

Seizing the moment...

Sometimes God brings the strangest acquaintances into our lives. Instead of turning away, why not embrace the moment and make a difference in someone's life. Divine appointments may come when we least expect them.

Join us today over at the 160 Acrewoods today.

Please stop by tomorrow for a WONDERFUL GIVE-A-WAY, you won't want to miss this one!

A Season To Love

As the holidays are now officially in gear, I have something that is on my heart and I'd like to share with you.

On Saturday November 29th Tammy over at My Heart...His Word's 13 year old son went to be with Jesus. This precious child had been battling brain cancer since 2002. It had been a long journey with many surgeries, chemo and radiation. Although I never met him personally, I felt like I knew Nick from just from reading Tammy's writings. If you have not visited her blog, you really need to. Each time I would go over to visit and check up on Nick, my plan was to leave a message to encourage Tammy, but it never failed, I was the one who came away encouraged by her steadfast faith and great love for Jesus. Oh how our prayers and thoughts go out to this wonderful family at this time.

Since my son was diagnosed with a brain tumor over 5 years ago our world has also been radically changed. While we are so grateful that Jordan is now in remission, we are still closely connected to many families who have either lost a child to some form of childhood cancer or continue to face the battle for a cure. As hard as this is sometimes, we count it a privilege to be able to witness first hand the Lord's amazing grace at work in the lives of these children and families.

The reason I'm writing about this today is because although Christmas is one of the most joyous seasons of the year, it can also be one of the most difficult for families like Tammy's and others that have experienced such great loss. It seems that during the holidays, fond memories and family traditions only tend to emphasize grief.

In the book of Galatians 6:2 Paul instructs us to,

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

I know for many of you it can be difficult to talk to people who may be going through times like this. You may feel like you just don't know what to say. I've been there myself many times and I've even avoided people because I felt at a loss to know how to encourage them. However, I have learned some things along the way, and I'd like to encourage you who may face a situation like this with a few things that might help you to minister and console.

First of all don't be afraid to acknowledge their loss and talk about their loved one by name. Although it may cause some tears, there is really no greater joy then knowing that your loved one is remembered. Talk about personal experiences you may have had with that person, or stories about their lives that you know. Remember, that person really is living on in heaven. They may be gone from our presence, but they are still very much alive and well.

Another way to bless a family who has experienced a loss is to give a gift in honor of their loved one. Find out what cause or organization they are their family may be involved with and give something in their name. This really makes the family feel like their passing was not in vain, and their lives are still having an impact by helping others.

Finally, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. He is the One who will lead you, guide you, and give you the the words to speak. Remember, we are the Body of Christ. We are the hands of Christ reaching out to help lift up this hurting world.

...The Spirit the Lord is upon us to bind up the broken hearted. (Isa. 61)

May your Christmas season be a blessed one...full of the Love, Joy and Peace that comes from knowing Christ the Savior.

Thanks for taking time to stop by today.

The Sanctuary of Marriage

Today is Marriage Monday. Andrea over at Embracing Him is our hostess. I look forward each month to participating, but I'm still in the middle of some major renovations since Gustav! We are almost finished, praise God.

Anyhow, today's topic is so important. Hopefully you'll take time to check out some great posts on this topic.

I was especially blessed as I read E-Mom's. She always delivers such an informative information. I appreciate her ministry here in the blogosphere. Stop by, you'll be blessed and enlightened for sure. Thanks E-Mom!

Have a blessed day today!

Tis the season...

Cole and the girls hope you have a great weekend shopping!

Are we not just the cutest? Now, this is what Grammy's get to do, brag, brag, brag!!

A Time to Reflect...

Join us today over at the 160 Acrewoods, you're in for a real blessing!

Thanks Living

Of all the holidays we celebrate in our nation, I would have to say that Thanksgiving is probably my favorite. Sure, I love the food, and all those scrumptious desserts, in fact, I can feel the calories adding up even as I type this update. However, what I enjoy most is the special time I get to spend with our family, and of course capturing all those "Kodak" moments!

Above all, Thanksgiving is really a day to remember all the wonderful things God has done for us throughout the year. In the book of Psalms we are given a special promise that comes to those who offer up thanksgiving to God. Many times it is difficult to feel thankful when we are going through difficult times, but it opens the way for God's blessings to flow into our lives.

Psalm 50:23 "He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me and he prepares the way so that I may show him the salvation of God." (NIV)

For me personally, when I keep an attitude of thanksgiving, it truly changes things around and my load seems so much lighter.

I love the first line of this quote, "Thanksgiving begins with Thanks Living". Oh, to have a grateful heart each and every day. It is not hard when we stop and think about the many things we have to give thanks for, and to know how awesome and great our God truly is.

In closing today, I'd like to reflect on the greatness and goodness of God by sharing some wonderful scriptures that I read in a recent devotional.


As we consider WHO JESUS IS...let us offer up to God Thanksgiving and Praise!

"He is All-Present." Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there." (Psalms 139:7-8 )

"He is All powerful." I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. (Job 42:2 ) "I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me? (Jeremiah 32:27 ) "For nothing is impossible with God." (Luke 1:37 )

"He is All-Knowing." O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4 Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD." (NIV) Psalm 139:1"Lord, you know every one's heart." (NIV) Acts 1:24

"He is Stable and Unchanging.". . .the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations." (NIV) Psalm 33:11

"He is Eternal." I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8 )

"He is Incomprehensible." Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales and the hills in a balance? 13 Who has understood the mind of the LORD, or instructed him as his counselor? 14 Whom did the LORD consult to enlighten him, and who taught him the right way? Who was it that taught him knowledge or showed him the path of understanding?" (NIV) Isa 40:12"To whom, then, will you compare God? What image will you compare him to?" (NIV) Isa 40:18

"He is Merciful." But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved." (Ephesians 2:4 NIV)

"He is Compassionate." Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort." (2 Corinthians 1:3 NIV)

"He is Good." Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." (NIV) 1 Chronicles 16:34


Oh Lord, how can we ever thank you enough for all that you have done for us? Your faithfulness and great love endures forever. Thank you for watching over us, for your mercy, great compassion, and your love that sustains us daily. Father, I lift all those who will have that empty seat at their Thanksgiving table this year. Comfort them and remind them of your promise that one day we will be together again. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Please join us over at Chocolate and Coffee today as others give thanks to you.

Let's Play Tag

My wonderful friend Tiffany tagged me the other day. I've been really busy, like most of you I'm sure, but thought I'd go with it.

So...here's the rules:

1) Link to the person who tagged you.

2) Post the rules on your blog (copy and paste 1-6).

3) Write 6 random things about yourself.

4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them.

5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.

6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

6 Random things about me:

1. I'm really bad about being tagged and passing on awards. I am blessed when I'm chosen so, thank you Tiffanie, this one is just for you!

2). I love reading medical journals/blogs and talking to doctors. Since I was a young girl I have always been interested in learning about medical science. The human body and how it works is just so amazing to me. (I have so much to learn!)

3). I'm a realist. I enjoy reading non-fiction books, and watching movies that are based on true stories. Some of my all time favorites are Chariots of Fire, Saving Private Ryan, Schindler's List, and a A Beautiful Mind. (Yes, I know movies that cause many tears...)

4). I prefer desserts any day over the main course. I love a cup of hot tea and a good book, M & M's in my popcorn is one of my favorite treats.

5). One thing I learned from my mother was there is more joy in giving then receiving. I love finding out what someone needs and then doing what ever I can to help meet that need. (Oh what joy!)

6). Finally, I have a fantasy that one day we will have a big Blog Convention and I will get to meet all of you!

Now, I'm tagging these sweet ladies:

Maxine

Tracy

Leslie

Kim

Michelle

Ang

Some Friday Funnies

Well, it's Friday and I sure enjoy taking time to read some really funny stuff that is posted each week.

I pray you have a great weekend. I know things start getting crazy around this time of the year, don't forget to take time to give thanks, and laugh! I recently found this quote by Billy Graham on humor;

"A keen sense of humor helps us overlook the unbecoming, understand the unconventional, tolerate the unpleasant, overcome the unexpected and outlast the unbearable".

Read the following tongue-twisters:

This is this cat

This is is cat

This is how cat

This is to cat

This is keep cat

This is a cat

This is fool cat

This is busy cat

This is for cat

This is forty cat

This is seconds cat

Now read the THIRD word, in each line, from the start!

Join us today over at Homesteader's Heart.

Join Me Today!

Oh, let the redeemed say so!! Please join me today over at the Internet Cafe, I'd like to share with you what God reminded me of recently! See you over there.

For more Word-Filled-Wednesday posts go to Amy's at 160 Acre Woods.

Falling in love with Jesus...again!

This past weekend I attended a Women’s
Retreat in the beautiful historic town of St. Francisville, LA. This town was a popular landing spot for Mississippi River Steamboats. There are three 19th-century churches still in use, and an oak-shaded public park complete with historic a bandstand/gazebo for concerts and festivals.

The theme of the retreat was “Fall in love with Jesus all over again”, and truly God was there waiting to met each one of us.

I attended the retreat with one of my closest friends, Cyndy. We were looking forward to just getting away, and expecting great things from the Lord.

He did not disappoint.

In our first session we went over the book of Habakkuk, and the remainder of our time was spent studying Psalm 23. We were so blessed and encouraged as Sister Anna Donahue expounded each verse and we discovered so many wonderful gems of truth. She is a gifted teacher who has a heart for God!

We not only got to bask in the presence of God, but there was also some very funny moments and lots of laughter. After leaving the chapel the first night it was very dark outside, and we took a wrong turn in our car that landed us on the golf cart path that surrounded the resort. I have not laughed so hard in years! You don’t even want to know how embarrassed we were trying to turn around. Praise God, we made it out safely, and there was no evidence of our escapade for the golfers to discover the next morning!

Another highlight for me was getting to spend time with a very dear friend of mine, Pastor Parris Bailey, who hosted the retreat. I’ve been knowing Parris for over 30 years, and although we don’t get to see each other very often, it was just like we were together only yesterday!

Although we are close in age, Parris has always been my Titus 2 mentor. I’ve never met a more godly and passionate woman after God’s heart. What a blessing it was for me to learn from her example and sit under her anointed teaching for many years as a young Christian. I’ve always admired, loved, and learned so much from Parris. We’ve been through a lot together; our friendship is something I’ll always treasure.

I love you Parris!

The Perks of Senior Citizenship

Well, it's that time again for Friday Funnies! I've really enjoyed this new meme. With all that is going on in the world, a little laughter seems to help lighten the load.

Today's subject is the perks of getting older. It's scary when you can truly identify.



Someone had to remind me, so I'm reminding you too. Don't laugh.....it is all true...



01. Kidnappers are not very interested in you.

02. In a hostage situation you are likely to be released first.

03. No one expects you to run--anywhere.

04. People call at 9 pm and ask, did I wake you?

05. People no longer view you as a hypochondriac.

06. There is nothing left to learn the hard way.

07. Things you buy now won't wear out.

08. You can eat supper at 4 pm.

09. You get into heated arguments about pension plans.

10. You quit trying to hold your stomach in no matter who walks into the room.

11. Your eyes won't get much worse.

12. Your investment in health insurance is finally beginning to pay off.

13. Your joints are more accurate meteorologists than the national weather service.

14. Your secrets are safe with your friends because they can't remember them either.

15. Your supply of brain cells is finally down to manageable size.

16. You can't remember who sent you this list.

And you notice these are all in Big Print for your convenience.

Please join us over at Homesteaders Heart for more laughter!!

A special day to celebrate!

Today is a very important day for one of my best friends. Yes, Tonya, who you can find over at Safe In His Arms, is celebrating her birthday!

Oh, what a great day it is for me to give thanks for this extra special friend that God has blessed me with.



The Lord has given me many wonderful friends, but there are a few that come into your life that are the ones “born for adversity”.

These are the friends that God brings to you when you need someone to lean upon during times of great difficulty, and can celebrate with in times of awesome victory.

A friend that truly understands the depth of your fears, and accepts you just the way you are. A friend that is willing to reach out a hand to you even when they are in need of a helping hand themselves.


I'm so grateful for the love Tonya has shown to me and my family over the years. Even in her darkest hours, she still managed to be concerned for me and continued to show God’s love “at all times”.


She is truly my Proverbs 17:17 friend.



Happy Birthday Tonya, I love you!!

Please join us today for other WFW pictures at The 16o Acre Woods.

Honoring our Veterans

A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America


White House News




On Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the men and women who in defense of our freedom have bravely worn the uniform of the United States.

From the fields and forests of war-torn Europe to the jungles of Southeast Asia, from the deserts of Iraq to the mountains of Afghanistan, brave patriots have protected our Nation's ideals, rescued millions from tyranny, and helped spread freedom around the globe. America's veterans answered the call when asked to protect our Nation from some of the most brutal and ruthless tyrants, terrorists, and militaries the world has ever known. They stood tall in the face of grave danger and enabled our Nation to become the greatest force for freedom in human history. Members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard have answered a high calling to serve and have helped secure America at every turn.

Our country is forever indebted to our veterans for their quiet courage and exemplary service. We also remember and honor those who laid down their lives in freedom's defense. These brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice for our benefit. On Veterans Day, we remember these heroes for their valor, their loyalty, and their dedication. Their selfless sacrifices continue to inspire us today as we work to advance peace and extend freedom around the world.

With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service members have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor America's veterans.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2008, as Veterans Day and urge all Americans to observe November 9 through November 15, 2008, as National Veterans Awareness Week. I encourage all Americans to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies and prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to support and participate in patriotic activities in their communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship, schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this national observance with commemorative expressions and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Now think about this...

“Finally, brothers (sisters!),

Whatever is true,

Whatever is noble,

Whatever is right,

Whatever is pure,

Whatever is lovely,

Whatever is admirable,

If anything is excellent,

Or praiseworthy

…think about such things.”
Philippians 4:8

On this Thankful Thursday I’m so grateful for the many opportunities we have each day to give praise and thanks to our God for His awesome provision, protection, and powerful love shown in our lives. We really have no reason to ever feel discouraged, afraid, or unsure. Even though there are times when we have to stop and remind ourselves…the truth is He is always near!

I’m giving thanks today that we live in a nation where our voices can be heard, and we have the freedom to choose how we live, worship and train up our children. Those who have gone on before us have paid a heavy price for this great freedom we now enjoy. May we never take it granted.

Even though this year’s presidential election was the longest and most intense I have ever experienced, I’m grateful it is finally over. Now we, as the Church, can get busy praying and interceding for our country and those who have been charged to lead our nation for the next four years.

Finally, I’m thankful that no matter who is in the White House, or presiding over the Supreme Court, or in the halls of Congress, ultimately, it is God who is keeping watch over his people.

Truly, “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy Name, O Most High!” Ps. 92:1

Please join other grateful hearts today over at Grace Alone and be encouraged.

Please Go Out and Vote!!!!

~Please remember to mute my music player!~

Walking In Grace

“I believe marriage holds both the greatest potential for hurt, yet the greatest opportunity for grace to be shown.”

Today our theme for Marriage Monday is grace. Oh, of all the many virtues we can emulate in our marriage, this one is right at the top for me. I don't think it is possible for a marriage to flourish without the gift of grace being appropriated on a daily basis.

So what is grace and how does it look in a marriage?

The word grace is used several different ways in both the old and new testament. Some of the definitions denote gracefulness or beauty, but most generally it means favor or good will.

One thing we know for sure is that grace was given to us all as a free gift from God.

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:8–10).

Some of the ways we can exercise grace in our marriage would be:

Forgiveness. Gosh, we get this opportunity each and every day! It's so easy to be offended, misunderstood, hurt, and the list goes on. Each time we purpose to forgive we offer the same gift to our spouse that was given to us by God. I'm so glad we are forgiven and our sins have been cast into a sea of forgetfulness. Is it not right that we are willing to do the same thing for the person we love most in this world? OK, I work on this one daily, and have by no means come close to arriving.

Accepting Differences. Another way we can demonstrate grace is by accepting each other's differences. Ouch... I know it would seem wonderful if you and your spouse enjoyed everything exactly the same. If you had the same passions, hobbies, taste in food, etc. I'm truly blessed my husband is so patient as he attempts to be involved in many of the things I enjoy. In the same way, I realize I have to learn to be patient and show interest in the things he enjoys as well. OK, Rick you can faint after reading this statement! Ladies, let me make a confession to you right now. I am the only female in the house of 6 guys. I am so tired of SPORTS, but I’m trying to learn. Is there anything else in life?

Make Room for Mistakes. There are so many ways we can exercise grace, and it would take way too much time to try and cover them all, so for now I'll conclude with this one. Allow each other the opportunity to make a mistake! Now, who likes to be told, "I told you so". I know as a woman its second nature to be a teacher. We do this daily with our children and it so easy to carry this over to our spouses. Many times our expectations can be way too high. As we walk in grace, our mates should feel they have the room to fail without feeling condemned. They are not perfect and neither are we. If we lovingly let them know we are standing right along side of them, even when they fail, they will become more vulnerable and open. Now, isn't that really our deepest desire? And we can only gain that by giving the gift of grace.

I want more then ever to have a grace-filled marriage where there is love, beauty, and God's unmerited favor operating on a daily basis. This concept is much easier to write about than it is to put into practice. May God give us grace to live this out each day.

“Lord, remind me daily of your unfailing grace in my life as I offer it to my husband. Give me your heart that is so full of unconditional love. A heart that is slow to anger, quick to forgive, merciful in judgment, and filled with your compassion. May my life be an example of your grace each day.”

Please join Robyn today at Overflowing Grace as she hosts our Marriage Monday.

Friday Funnies

I recently discovered this fun meme so thought I'd join Kim over at Homesteaders Heart today. Please join us!

I've read so many funny church bulletin bloopers, here are some of my favorites. Hope this puts a smile on your face today!!

~MORE CHURCH BULLETIN BLOOPERS~

This one I said myself during the congregational prayer when leading prayer for our unsaved loved ones: Father, we just want to pray for our unloved saved ones.~

Please welcome Pastor Don, a caring individual who loves hurting people.~

Come out this evening for a time of prayer and sinning.~

Overeaters Anonymous meeting will be held at 8 pm in the large room.~

A worm welcome to all who have come today.~

Next Friday we will be serving hot gods for lunch.~

If you would like to make a donation, fill out a form, enclose a check and drip in the collection basket.~

Women's Luncheon: Each member bring a sandwich. Polly Phillips will give the medication.~

Karen's beautiful solo: "It is Well with my Solo"~

Congratulations to Tim and Rhonda on the birth of their daughter October 12 thru 17.~