Hello from Park City, Utah! It's been a great trip so far. Friday night I arrived on time, but by the time we drove back to the condo, I unpacked and we talked for a short bit, bedtime was about 2:00am (which is 3:00am CST). Yes, I can stay up late occasionally :o) (I did sleep on the plane for a little over an hour, which helped).
Saturday we slept in, went for our walk and then did some shopping at the outlet malls. I got a few new things that were 50% off and some more jewelry (still building my stock back up from the break-in). We went to bed fairly early, we were all tired and were planning an early morning.
Sunday we did the morning routine (walk, devotions, shower and eat) and headed to Salt Lake City. We went to hear the rehearsal for the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. It was done by 9am so we then decided to go ahead and do the tour of Temple Square. We finished that and decided we had enough time to tour the Beehive House (Brigham Young's) and make it back to the tabernacle for the organ recital at noon. So we did, but about 11:55am we realized that there wasn't a noon recital that day, only the 2pm. That meant it was lunch time. I had a great meal of fish and shrimp!
We went back and relaxed in the comfy seats of the south visitor center for about half an hour and then headed to the tabernacle for the organ recital. It was awesome! 11,623 pipes! We stopped back by the north visitor center to watch one more film of a historical story of their move west. The whole day was very interesting and very eye-opening! I knew that they were considered a cult and were off-base in their beliefs, but I didn't know much of why or how and hearing them speak all day was very sad in some ways. To hear that they claim to believe the Bible and yet are SO deceived. Wow.
Monday we drove 2 1/2 hours up northwest of Salt Lake City to the site where the Golden Spike was driven. There wasn't a lot there, but it was neat to see and learn a little about it. We also were going to stop at the Great Salt Lake, but decided on the way home we were ready to just be back. Tuesday after our morning routine we went to speak with one of the timeshare guys. He was nice and we had a good conversation, but were not going to purchase any more. We spent the rest of the day just relaxing in the room. I even took a nap, which was really nice.
Yesterday, morning routine, then we were off south to see the Kennecott Bingham Canyon Mine. One of the world's largest copper strip mines. It is so huge a hole in the ground now that it can be seen with the naked eye from outer space. 17% of the nation's copper is mined from here. We also learned that they gain many other minerals and such from the process as well (gold, silver, sulfuric acid and many other things I can't remember at the moment). After that we came back and grilled hot dogs to go with our homemade baked beans! Yum!
We had originally intended to go to the Utah Olympic Park in the afternoon, but we lazed around long enough that we didn't go. So this morning after our normal routine (by the way I'm currently walking 2 miles, in less than an hour, not flat and in the high altitude - not bad), we headed out to Olympic Park, which is just up the road from us. There wasn't a whole lot to do there, but we saw the ski jumps and bobsled track, and went through the museum. The best part was watching them practice ski jumping - they do it into a pool... of water!! It was very cool and we spent quite a bit of time sitting there watching the different levels of athletes practicing! Hopefully got some good picturs.
After lunch today, we went across the street in downtown historic Park City and rode the city chair lift. It was threatening storms in the distance, and the upper end was down in a small valley so we didn't get off at the top, but just rode on around and back down. It was about 40 minute ride and was peaceful and gorgeous! I even wished at one short spot that I had my jacket!
This evening we packed. I took a nap, trying to get rid of a headache too. Dad has the car mostly loaded and after our normal routine in the morning, we'll hit the road for Yellowstone! From all weather reports we've been seeing it will be even cooler up there. We are expecting about an 8-9 hour trip tomorrow in a fully-packed van, so say a little prayer for me!
Don't know what the connection options will be up there, so I will probably not write again until I return home. Hope you and yours are doing well this summer! Drop me a line sometime and let me know what you are up to!
Thursday, August 7
Thursday, July 31
Waiting...
I'm getting anxious to be on my way! My plane leaves tomorrow for the west and I'm very excited about that.
A little over a week with Mom and Dad...
a little over a week in the mountains...
a little over a week in the cooler weather...
a little over a week from the daily monotony of the office!
Plus I'll be adding 4 new states to my repertoire!
Some of you may have noticed a few new things on the sidebar. Something I'd been wanting to do but just am not 'puter savvy enough to have figured out - thanks a million, Daniel, for your time and talents! He spent a couple hours on Saturday at the house helping me with this and a few other computer-related things I needed help with. Anyway, one of the things I've added here are a few links, and I invite you to try them out when you get some time and have nothing better to do with it :o)
Lots of things going on... Last Friday night we went to the DCI show and as always it was worth the price! We are already looking forward to going again next year and actually getting our tickets all together so we can sit together! I was sad that I wasn't able to take Ethan, though, we'll try again next year and see what happens. Saturday I worked all day in the sewing room and by the end of August I'll have taken pictures of the finished project and will be able to share with you what I've been working on... stay tuned, you'll love it! I'm still behind on baby afghans, but I'll get caught up eventually. Speaking of babies, Maggie is now approaching 6 lbs and is working on the last hurdle of being able to eat completely on her own and then she'll be able to go home! Praise God for keeping her well and healthy throughout this difficult start to her life - she's doing fantastic!
I've also been doing alot of serious reading, studying, contemplating, praying and growing lately. I can't say every step has been "fun", but I'm thankful He thinks so much of me that He grows me and stretches me toward the woman He's called me to be. If you want to read more bits of that, you can read some of my entries over at Simple Walk.
I'm sure I'll have more next week - I'll have to report in on all the stuff I'm getting to enjoy. Until then...
A little over a week with Mom and Dad...
a little over a week in the mountains...
a little over a week in the cooler weather...
a little over a week from the daily monotony of the office!
Plus I'll be adding 4 new states to my repertoire!
Some of you may have noticed a few new things on the sidebar. Something I'd been wanting to do but just am not 'puter savvy enough to have figured out - thanks a million, Daniel, for your time and talents! He spent a couple hours on Saturday at the house helping me with this and a few other computer-related things I needed help with. Anyway, one of the things I've added here are a few links, and I invite you to try them out when you get some time and have nothing better to do with it :o)
Lots of things going on... Last Friday night we went to the DCI show and as always it was worth the price! We are already looking forward to going again next year and actually getting our tickets all together so we can sit together! I was sad that I wasn't able to take Ethan, though, we'll try again next year and see what happens. Saturday I worked all day in the sewing room and by the end of August I'll have taken pictures of the finished project and will be able to share with you what I've been working on... stay tuned, you'll love it! I'm still behind on baby afghans, but I'll get caught up eventually. Speaking of babies, Maggie is now approaching 6 lbs and is working on the last hurdle of being able to eat completely on her own and then she'll be able to go home! Praise God for keeping her well and healthy throughout this difficult start to her life - she's doing fantastic!
I've also been doing alot of serious reading, studying, contemplating, praying and growing lately. I can't say every step has been "fun", but I'm thankful He thinks so much of me that He grows me and stretches me toward the woman He's called me to be. If you want to read more bits of that, you can read some of my entries over at Simple Walk.
I'm sure I'll have more next week - I'll have to report in on all the stuff I'm getting to enjoy. Until then...
Wednesday, July 23
Caves & books
Have you ever been to Mammoth Cave National Park? I had been in the park before with Gram and Grandpa, but had never had a chance to actually go in the caves. This past weekend a small group of us from my Sunday School class went and did a tour and then had a picnic. We had a great time! The best place to go hiking in the middle of the hot summer is in the caves where it is a nice steady 54 degrees! Coming out the door at the end was not so much fun.
What else have I been doing lately? Well, mostly hanging out with my friends and doing some serious reading. I've also begun work on a large sewing project that I have to have done by the end of August. I need to keep going on it or I'm going to get myself in a corner I don't want to be in. I've read "Captivating" by John and Stasi Eldredge and it was really good for me. Since finishing it a little over a week ago, I've also acquired the companion journal that they've done and I'm planning to go back through it using the journal to digest some of it more in depth and really work through some things that I just glossed over while just reading the book. I'm pretty sure I'm going to be doing it simultaneously as some friends, which I'm looking forward to as well. I'm also continuing with the "Forsyte Saga", and trying to get the National Geographics read before I have to deliver them to Mom and Dad in a couple weeks now.
I'm heading out west in just over a week to spend 10 days with Mom and Dad. I'm looking forward to getting away and to seeing them. Especially as it's the mountains I'm heading for! We are hoping to do some hiking, but it will depend partly on how Mom is doing. I'll be in both Park City, Utah and then a few days in Yellowstone! I get to add 3 new states for sure and maybe Montana as well, depending on what we decide to do.
Well, I guess that's about it for now. Need to get back to work. Hope all is well with you and yours, please drop me a comment or an email and let me know what's going on with you! Happy Wednesday!
What else have I been doing lately? Well, mostly hanging out with my friends and doing some serious reading. I've also begun work on a large sewing project that I have to have done by the end of August. I need to keep going on it or I'm going to get myself in a corner I don't want to be in. I've read "Captivating" by John and Stasi Eldredge and it was really good for me. Since finishing it a little over a week ago, I've also acquired the companion journal that they've done and I'm planning to go back through it using the journal to digest some of it more in depth and really work through some things that I just glossed over while just reading the book. I'm pretty sure I'm going to be doing it simultaneously as some friends, which I'm looking forward to as well. I'm also continuing with the "Forsyte Saga", and trying to get the National Geographics read before I have to deliver them to Mom and Dad in a couple weeks now.
I'm heading out west in just over a week to spend 10 days with Mom and Dad. I'm looking forward to getting away and to seeing them. Especially as it's the mountains I'm heading for! We are hoping to do some hiking, but it will depend partly on how Mom is doing. I'll be in both Park City, Utah and then a few days in Yellowstone! I get to add 3 new states for sure and maybe Montana as well, depending on what we decide to do.
Well, I guess that's about it for now. Need to get back to work. Hope all is well with you and yours, please drop me a comment or an email and let me know what's going on with you! Happy Wednesday!
Tuesday, July 8
Good times and accomplishments
It was a good weekend! Friday was a nice day off, I got the laundry done, I exercised, I made a new pair of shorts to wear that night and I had a wonderful time with my friends at the park. There were 25 of us their and the weather was beautiful! We played UNO until it got too dark to see the cards and then we just enjoyed the music and the fireworks.
Saturday, a small contingent of our group went to work on a house all day that we are helping make repairs to for a group called Reconstruct. I painted outside trim all day - I lost track of how many times I climbed up and down the ladder :o) but luckily ladders and heights don't bother me. We were able to be in the shade all morning and that made it not quite so bad to be in the sun in the afternoon, but we were all worn out by the time we were done! A couple friends came over to my house for dinner. I started to help, but I had gotten a headache (probably just from the heat) so one of them fixed dinner while I talked with my parents and then after we were done the other one cleaned up for me and then we sat and chatted for awhile.
Sunday was a good day of worship and Bible Study. The rest to the day was spent with a friend who first fixed a brake light for me (that I didn't even know was out), then we went and played pool for a couple hours. Watch out, Grandpa, I'm practicing now! I even learned a new game - I had never played Nine Ball before. When we came back to my house we had leftovers from the night before for dinner and then hung out and talked till about 10:30pm. I think I was asleep before 11:00pm!
Coming back to work was difficult yesterday morning, but here we are with 2 days of the week almost gone again. I've got to work on some sewing this week in the evenings. I'd like to go help again Saturday for Reconstruct (the same house), but it will depend on how much I accomplish before then. I have a suit I'm needing to have done for a friend from class by August 23. So we'll see how it goes. I also still have afghans that need finishing, but I haven't watched TV or movie since June 18th - and that is usually when I work on the crocheting. Oh well, I'll have get back in gear!
A lot of things to contemplate right now, so my brain is keeping busy as well. I've not had much reading time lately either and I'm missing that. Boy does working every day make it hard to accomplish all the things I'd rather be doing! I am looking forward to vacation in a few weeks though - I'm going to meet up with Mom and Dad out west. I fly to Salt Lake City on Friday the 1st and we'll stay in Park City for the week. Then on the 8th we'll drive up to Yellowstone and they will be there for the week, though I will fly home on Monday the 11th. I get to add at least one state to my list and I'm looking forward to seeing part of Yellowstone - it will be my first time there.
Well, I guess that's about it for now. I need to get back to work and finish some things up before the end of the day. Many blessings this week on you and yours!
Saturday, a small contingent of our group went to work on a house all day that we are helping make repairs to for a group called Reconstruct. I painted outside trim all day - I lost track of how many times I climbed up and down the ladder :o) but luckily ladders and heights don't bother me. We were able to be in the shade all morning and that made it not quite so bad to be in the sun in the afternoon, but we were all worn out by the time we were done! A couple friends came over to my house for dinner. I started to help, but I had gotten a headache (probably just from the heat) so one of them fixed dinner while I talked with my parents and then after we were done the other one cleaned up for me and then we sat and chatted for awhile.
Sunday was a good day of worship and Bible Study. The rest to the day was spent with a friend who first fixed a brake light for me (that I didn't even know was out), then we went and played pool for a couple hours. Watch out, Grandpa, I'm practicing now! I even learned a new game - I had never played Nine Ball before. When we came back to my house we had leftovers from the night before for dinner and then hung out and talked till about 10:30pm. I think I was asleep before 11:00pm!
Coming back to work was difficult yesterday morning, but here we are with 2 days of the week almost gone again. I've got to work on some sewing this week in the evenings. I'd like to go help again Saturday for Reconstruct (the same house), but it will depend on how much I accomplish before then. I have a suit I'm needing to have done for a friend from class by August 23. So we'll see how it goes. I also still have afghans that need finishing, but I haven't watched TV or movie since June 18th - and that is usually when I work on the crocheting. Oh well, I'll have get back in gear!
A lot of things to contemplate right now, so my brain is keeping busy as well. I've not had much reading time lately either and I'm missing that. Boy does working every day make it hard to accomplish all the things I'd rather be doing! I am looking forward to vacation in a few weeks though - I'm going to meet up with Mom and Dad out west. I fly to Salt Lake City on Friday the 1st and we'll stay in Park City for the week. Then on the 8th we'll drive up to Yellowstone and they will be there for the week, though I will fly home on Monday the 11th. I get to add at least one state to my list and I'm looking forward to seeing part of Yellowstone - it will be my first time there.
Well, I guess that's about it for now. I need to get back to work and finish some things up before the end of the day. Many blessings this week on you and yours!
Tuesday, July 1
Just stuff...
So, 2008 is now half over, is that hard for anyone else to believe, or is it just me? Well, anyway, I have been very thankful that so far this summer has been very mild and much more tolerable! This morning I walked out to leave for the office and actually wondered if I'd missed a couple months, it felt like an early fall morning and I praised the Lord on the spot!
Lots of things going on in the past week and I feel like I've been through a whirlwind (or maybe two). God is good at stretching me when I least expect it and I'm just trying to keep up. I have once again been blessed with good friends that were there when I needed them and gracious enough to listen to my crazy rantings! It also humbles me to have so many praying for me right now, including some mighty warriors from unexpected places - may God bless you richly for your faithfulness. One thing I have learned this week that gives me peace is that though I first thought so, He doesn't ask me to give up the desires of my heart, but just to continue to hope and rest in Him. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Matthew 6:33.
On another note, happy birthday America! A few days early... I'm looking forward to our picnic in the park. My Sunday school class is going to a local park for free music and fireworks and taking picnic. It was great last year and I'm looking forward to it again this year. I'm also hoping to get some sewing done this weekend as well.
Guess that's really it for now. Happy Tuesday!
Lots of things going on in the past week and I feel like I've been through a whirlwind (or maybe two). God is good at stretching me when I least expect it and I'm just trying to keep up. I have once again been blessed with good friends that were there when I needed them and gracious enough to listen to my crazy rantings! It also humbles me to have so many praying for me right now, including some mighty warriors from unexpected places - may God bless you richly for your faithfulness. One thing I have learned this week that gives me peace is that though I first thought so, He doesn't ask me to give up the desires of my heart, but just to continue to hope and rest in Him. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Matthew 6:33.
On another note, happy birthday America! A few days early... I'm looking forward to our picnic in the park. My Sunday school class is going to a local park for free music and fireworks and taking picnic. It was great last year and I'm looking forward to it again this year. I'm also hoping to get some sewing done this weekend as well.
Guess that's really it for now. Happy Tuesday!
Wednesday, June 25
June is almost gone...
It's been a busy month. I have gotten everything repaired and/or replaced, except the jewelry and I haven't decided for sure yet how and what I'm going to do about that, but I have time. I also had a great visit with my parents. They were here for over a week and we had a good time. I took them out for their anniversary to a really nice place and we were blessed to have quite a few family and friends join us. Dad put up 3 new sets of shelves (2 in closets and 1 in the kitchen) and mom helped me go through some things and reorganize to make use of the newly claimed storage space. That was a huge accomplishment and something I'd been wanting to do for awhile - thanks for your help guys!
I continue to be highly involved with choir, though we are now on break for the summer, and with my class. One Saturday I went and work with some friends on a Habitat for Humanity house. This was my first time to ever do this and I enjoyed it. It was hot, but not too bad yet. I had a birthday dinner for one of my friends who's become very dear to me. I let her decide what she wanted and then her cousin and I did the prep, cooking and grilling. It was lot of fun. After dinner we played her favorite card game and laughed a lot! We also went to another play this month. This time it was Annie Get Your Gun. Once again they did a fantastic job and we are looking forward to the next one in August (The Foreigner).
This past weekend I spent with my grandfather and also saw some longtime family friends. It was a good weekend. Grandpa and I played some pool and lots of card games and made our usual trip for Saturday lunch at Ivanhoe's. I'm planning to return the end of September to go with him to the current play at the small theater there in Warren. I can't remember the name at the moment, but it sounds really funny, so I'm looking forward to it. I also enjoy singing for the Sunday service when I go as all of the folks there from the home that attend really are gracious and enjoy having me. In fact, Grandpa often gets asked when I'm coming next!
Mom and Dad are currently in Branson, MO and enjoying an Elderhostel week that James has joined them for. They are getting to see quite a few show as well as having some behind-the-scenes tours and workshops from performers. I chatted with her some yesterday on IM and it sounds as if they are enjoying it. She continues to make slow progress in recovery of the ankle and the back, so if you think of her, please pray that this will continue and more quickly if it be God's will. She is frustrated with the 6 months of not feeling well.
I've accomplished a few things in and around all the activities. I've made a dress for me, altered a bridesmaid dress for a friend, hemmed up some pants for a couple people and finished an afghan. I've got a wedding dress to hem up by this weekend and then I'm going to start on a suit for a friend from class. I also have 2 more afghans I need to finish and some pants I need to make for me and 2 more pair of pants to hem for friends. I think I'm going to spend Saturday in the sewing room! I can't wait!
Well, I guess that's most of the gist for now. Hope you're feeling great about how things are going in your world, is so praise the Lord for it, if not, He'd still like to hear from you! Until next time...
I continue to be highly involved with choir, though we are now on break for the summer, and with my class. One Saturday I went and work with some friends on a Habitat for Humanity house. This was my first time to ever do this and I enjoyed it. It was hot, but not too bad yet. I had a birthday dinner for one of my friends who's become very dear to me. I let her decide what she wanted and then her cousin and I did the prep, cooking and grilling. It was lot of fun. After dinner we played her favorite card game and laughed a lot! We also went to another play this month. This time it was Annie Get Your Gun. Once again they did a fantastic job and we are looking forward to the next one in August (The Foreigner).
This past weekend I spent with my grandfather and also saw some longtime family friends. It was a good weekend. Grandpa and I played some pool and lots of card games and made our usual trip for Saturday lunch at Ivanhoe's. I'm planning to return the end of September to go with him to the current play at the small theater there in Warren. I can't remember the name at the moment, but it sounds really funny, so I'm looking forward to it. I also enjoy singing for the Sunday service when I go as all of the folks there from the home that attend really are gracious and enjoy having me. In fact, Grandpa often gets asked when I'm coming next!
Mom and Dad are currently in Branson, MO and enjoying an Elderhostel week that James has joined them for. They are getting to see quite a few show as well as having some behind-the-scenes tours and workshops from performers. I chatted with her some yesterday on IM and it sounds as if they are enjoying it. She continues to make slow progress in recovery of the ankle and the back, so if you think of her, please pray that this will continue and more quickly if it be God's will. She is frustrated with the 6 months of not feeling well.
I've accomplished a few things in and around all the activities. I've made a dress for me, altered a bridesmaid dress for a friend, hemmed up some pants for a couple people and finished an afghan. I've got a wedding dress to hem up by this weekend and then I'm going to start on a suit for a friend from class. I also have 2 more afghans I need to finish and some pants I need to make for me and 2 more pair of pants to hem for friends. I think I'm going to spend Saturday in the sewing room! I can't wait!
Well, I guess that's most of the gist for now. Hope you're feeling great about how things are going in your world, is so praise the Lord for it, if not, He'd still like to hear from you! Until next time...
Wednesday, May 28
Continuous Student
Just because I quit college after 2 years doesn't mean I quit learning... not by a long shot.
I've learned many small and large things since then.
Some things were trivial and I probably don't even remember that I learned them, let alone would be able to repeat them back to you (unless it was from this morning-grin!).
Some things were more important and I've written them down...
somewhere...
hopefully to remember them more readily.
But there are some things that are life lessons or lessons of the heart that Holy Spirit is continuously teaching me and I hope that someday, I'll receive the words from God my Father, "well done, good and faithful servant."
These lessons are more like a journey, not just a couple hours in a classroom, and I've chosen that journey for the rest of my life. Sometimes they are the results of much prayer and sometimes they come out of nowhere. Sometimes, I'm not even sure what all I'm supposed to learn, I just keep praying that I won't hinder my own learning process and that He will make sure that I get what I'm supposed to get. Recently, I've finished reading Stormie Omartian's Power of a Praying Woman and am trying to be more diligently in prayer at every opportunity... for myself, for my family, for my friends, for those around me who are without the salvation of Christ. I have found overall, that the more I listen to Bible teaching and music from my daytime radio station, and the more I "pray without ceasing" the more I really feel in His presence. And the more that happens the more I tend to dwell on His word and serving and helping others instead of worrying about me, where I am in life and what I want. This, for those of you that may not realize it, is really a good thing, though not always easy.
I've recently been through an event that has forced me to put some of these newly learned things and thoughts to the test and my hope is that by my feeble human attempts at being faithful, somewhere, someone will see Christ for who He is.
On Friday, while I was at work, my house was broken into and some things were stolen. This is the second time in 2 1/2 years, and thus added an additional layer of frustration and attack. It was a rough go to begin with, but God has blessed me with a church family that stepped up and filled in the gaps, some gaps that I didn't even know were there. I have 3 very faithful Christian sisters that made sure that I was not alone for the first 48+ hours.
They helped me straighten things out,
they hugged me,
they offered me bed and board
and in general just kept me on an even keel,
letting me grieve,
but not letting me wallow,
helping me begin to deal with (again) that feeling of violation that someone had been in my space and in my stuff.
I didn't sleep real well those first couple nights as I couldn't get my mind to turn off. Though I did have a sweet time of conversation with my God during the second night. As He reminded me that He was in control I was able to begin to pray for all the details of the situation and He began to release my frustration and anxiety and as I continued I was able to sincerely pray for those who had done this and to forgive them. Oh, what sweet release He gives when we follow His ways and turn it all to Him.
I had two more huge blessings during these first few days as well. The first was that when I spoke with my parents they decided to change their plans and come two days earlier, so they will be here tomorrow. The second was from another class member who gave in a way that I would never have expected, but that was extremely helpful to me and removed one more detail that I didn't have to concern myself with in the midst of the crisis.
The biggest thing in all of this, is that I really am at the point of praising Him for it all, not easily gained, I'll admit. I'm physically fine. My cat was not in the house that day, but outside so he is fine. Though it's disappointing that I lost some sentimental family jewelry, everything I lost are just "things" and I have good insurance - not to mention that I came into this world with nothing and know that I'll leave it the same way, everything I have is the Lord's anyway. My house is still standing, I still have food and clothes and transporation and a job.
Mostly, I have an opportunity to handle this situation in such a way that His love shines through me...
and maybe...
just maybe, someone will see that there is something different about me and be drawn to Him. I want to be found faithful to Him in how He expects me to carry myself as His child, His student.
"In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls."
I Peter 1:6-9
I've learned many small and large things since then.
Some things were trivial and I probably don't even remember that I learned them, let alone would be able to repeat them back to you (unless it was from this morning-grin!).
Some things were more important and I've written them down...
somewhere...
hopefully to remember them more readily.
But there are some things that are life lessons or lessons of the heart that Holy Spirit is continuously teaching me and I hope that someday, I'll receive the words from God my Father, "well done, good and faithful servant."
These lessons are more like a journey, not just a couple hours in a classroom, and I've chosen that journey for the rest of my life. Sometimes they are the results of much prayer and sometimes they come out of nowhere. Sometimes, I'm not even sure what all I'm supposed to learn, I just keep praying that I won't hinder my own learning process and that He will make sure that I get what I'm supposed to get. Recently, I've finished reading Stormie Omartian's Power of a Praying Woman and am trying to be more diligently in prayer at every opportunity... for myself, for my family, for my friends, for those around me who are without the salvation of Christ. I have found overall, that the more I listen to Bible teaching and music from my daytime radio station, and the more I "pray without ceasing" the more I really feel in His presence. And the more that happens the more I tend to dwell on His word and serving and helping others instead of worrying about me, where I am in life and what I want. This, for those of you that may not realize it, is really a good thing, though not always easy.
I've recently been through an event that has forced me to put some of these newly learned things and thoughts to the test and my hope is that by my feeble human attempts at being faithful, somewhere, someone will see Christ for who He is.
On Friday, while I was at work, my house was broken into and some things were stolen. This is the second time in 2 1/2 years, and thus added an additional layer of frustration and attack. It was a rough go to begin with, but God has blessed me with a church family that stepped up and filled in the gaps, some gaps that I didn't even know were there. I have 3 very faithful Christian sisters that made sure that I was not alone for the first 48+ hours.
They helped me straighten things out,
they hugged me,
they offered me bed and board
and in general just kept me on an even keel,
letting me grieve,
but not letting me wallow,
helping me begin to deal with (again) that feeling of violation that someone had been in my space and in my stuff.
I didn't sleep real well those first couple nights as I couldn't get my mind to turn off. Though I did have a sweet time of conversation with my God during the second night. As He reminded me that He was in control I was able to begin to pray for all the details of the situation and He began to release my frustration and anxiety and as I continued I was able to sincerely pray for those who had done this and to forgive them. Oh, what sweet release He gives when we follow His ways and turn it all to Him.
I had two more huge blessings during these first few days as well. The first was that when I spoke with my parents they decided to change their plans and come two days earlier, so they will be here tomorrow. The second was from another class member who gave in a way that I would never have expected, but that was extremely helpful to me and removed one more detail that I didn't have to concern myself with in the midst of the crisis.
The biggest thing in all of this, is that I really am at the point of praising Him for it all, not easily gained, I'll admit. I'm physically fine. My cat was not in the house that day, but outside so he is fine. Though it's disappointing that I lost some sentimental family jewelry, everything I lost are just "things" and I have good insurance - not to mention that I came into this world with nothing and know that I'll leave it the same way, everything I have is the Lord's anyway. My house is still standing, I still have food and clothes and transporation and a job.
Mostly, I have an opportunity to handle this situation in such a way that His love shines through me...
and maybe...
just maybe, someone will see that there is something different about me and be drawn to Him. I want to be found faithful to Him in how He expects me to carry myself as His child, His student.
"In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls."
I Peter 1:6-9
Monday, April 28
Encouraged
I'm hanging in there, how about you?!
Work has been trying, the situation with my challenging employee has continued to evolve - I'd fill you in on the details but you'd be appalled at half of it and not quite believe the other half, so suffice it to say that there aren't many of these but the one there are you want to stay far, far away from you. They know all the rules back and forth and use them trying to find any and all holes even where there are none, they also wave the "lawsuit" and "EEOC" flag as often as possible because they think it helps them get their way. The good news is that this employee is now on written warning for attendance issues, and had a fairly rough performance eval recently that laid out things that need to be improved upon. The Lord has not moved me on, so therefore I know He has a reason for why I am in a position I dislike and am having to deal with an employee situation that should have been termintated many, many months ago before it was ever transferred to me. So lately, I've come to really lean on these words from one of my favorite artists...
Hard as it seems
Standing in dreams
Where is the dreamer now
Wonder if I
Wanted to try
Would I remember how
I don't know the way to go from here
But I know I have made my choice
And this is where I stand
Until He moves me on
And I will listen to His voice
This is the faith
Patience to wait
When there is nothing clear
Nothing to see
Still we believe
Jesus is very near
I can not imagine what will come
But I've already made my choice
And this is where I stand
Until He moves me on
And I will listen to His voice
Could it be that He is only waiting there to see
If I will learn to love the dreams
that He has dreamed for me
Can't imagine what the future holds
But I've already made my choice
And this is where I stand
Until He moves me on
And I will listen to His voice
~ Twila Paris
Work has been trying, the situation with my challenging employee has continued to evolve - I'd fill you in on the details but you'd be appalled at half of it and not quite believe the other half, so suffice it to say that there aren't many of these but the one there are you want to stay far, far away from you. They know all the rules back and forth and use them trying to find any and all holes even where there are none, they also wave the "lawsuit" and "EEOC" flag as often as possible because they think it helps them get their way. The good news is that this employee is now on written warning for attendance issues, and had a fairly rough performance eval recently that laid out things that need to be improved upon. The Lord has not moved me on, so therefore I know He has a reason for why I am in a position I dislike and am having to deal with an employee situation that should have been termintated many, many months ago before it was ever transferred to me. So lately, I've come to really lean on these words from one of my favorite artists...
Hard as it seems
Standing in dreams
Where is the dreamer now
Wonder if I
Wanted to try
Would I remember how
I don't know the way to go from here
But I know I have made my choice
And this is where I stand
Until He moves me on
And I will listen to His voice
This is the faith
Patience to wait
When there is nothing clear
Nothing to see
Still we believe
Jesus is very near
I can not imagine what will come
But I've already made my choice
And this is where I stand
Until He moves me on
And I will listen to His voice
Could it be that He is only waiting there to see
If I will learn to love the dreams
that He has dreamed for me
Can't imagine what the future holds
But I've already made my choice
And this is where I stand
Until He moves me on
And I will listen to His voice
~ Twila Paris
Monday, March 24
Spring is creeping in...
I don't mind the early spring when the early flowers like daffodils and hyacinths bloom. The Bradford Pear trees are gorgeous and there's some kind of bush that's bright almost mustard yellow flowers and are terrific too! There are a few folks that are just beginning to mow the lawn and there's a hint of its aroma in the air. It's also still in the temps that I like best high 60's and maybe a few into the 70's during the day. So, I'm enjoying it because I know it won't last long, it will quickly move along to the 80's and 90's and I'll be staying inside. I enjoyed having my windows open on Friday evening while I did some things around the house.
HAPPY EASTER!
Things at the office are par for the course that's been set for me lately. Today is quiet as my challenging employee is off on a vacation day. I also have some days off coming up so I'm looking forward to that. I have a full week this week, then only 3 days in the office next week and only Friday the week after that. I'm taking 4 vacation days to spend some time with Mom and Dad while they are here and a few days with them in Gatlinburg, then I also have a conference for 2 days here in Nashville that I'm attending for work.
Mom and Dad will be here in 5 days!! Approximately 122 hours and I'm anxiously awaiting their arrival. They've made it to Indiana and were to be unpacking the truck this morning and then heading to Grandpa's anytime now. I'm sure that's he's been anxiously awaiting their arrival as well.
We are scheduled for our next upcoming play in the season - Lost in Yonkers. I was thrilled with the theater after being there the first time. It's a lovely small venue which I've always enjoyed because you feel more a part of the story and don't miss a thing. They did a fantastic job with Lend Me a Tenor - a great comedy, if you ever get a chance to see it - and I'm ready for more.
Not much else to relay for now and I must get back to the tasks at hand. Have a terrific week and enjoy your springtime!
HAPPY EASTER!
Things at the office are par for the course that's been set for me lately. Today is quiet as my challenging employee is off on a vacation day. I also have some days off coming up so I'm looking forward to that. I have a full week this week, then only 3 days in the office next week and only Friday the week after that. I'm taking 4 vacation days to spend some time with Mom and Dad while they are here and a few days with them in Gatlinburg, then I also have a conference for 2 days here in Nashville that I'm attending for work.
Mom and Dad will be here in 5 days!! Approximately 122 hours and I'm anxiously awaiting their arrival. They've made it to Indiana and were to be unpacking the truck this morning and then heading to Grandpa's anytime now. I'm sure that's he's been anxiously awaiting their arrival as well.
We are scheduled for our next upcoming play in the season - Lost in Yonkers. I was thrilled with the theater after being there the first time. It's a lovely small venue which I've always enjoyed because you feel more a part of the story and don't miss a thing. They did a fantastic job with Lend Me a Tenor - a great comedy, if you ever get a chance to see it - and I'm ready for more.
Not much else to relay for now and I must get back to the tasks at hand. Have a terrific week and enjoy your springtime!
Friday, February 29
Happy Leap Year!
And a belated happy Valentine's! I had a great Valentine's - on Friday night my Sunday school class had a potluck dinner with the widows group that we help serve. It was delicious and a joy to visit and play games with the ladies. And we even gave them each a bag of homemade cookies and a rose as the left for the evening. What a blessing to be able to bless others!
The rest of the month has gone along. Work has been a chore day after day, but I keep at it. Today has been particularly frustrating - more complaints from the problem employee I inherited. I'm just glad it's Friday and I'm going home for the weekend in less than two hours!
We are actually having a make-your-own-pizza and game night tonight and I'm hoping my energy level will pick back up when I'm in a better environment, because I want to have a good time and enjoy my friends, but right now I'm exhausted.
The best news of all is that Mom and Dad are home on US soil!! I think they are almost over the jet lag and have already been busy accomplishing all the things that need doing so they can hit the road. They've got a phone, the computers are ready to go, they picked up their new van yesterday and it supposedly has it all!! Mom said they are going to start organizing and repacking tomorrow as she wants to have it done before the shipment from Thailand arrives.
A couple weeks ago I got 3 dresses cut out and also made a trip to Jo-Ann's Etc. to get some sewing supplies (thread, zippers, ribbon) and some yarn - I have several baby afghans to be working on. Tomorrow I intend to cut out 2 more dresses and some pairs of pants and begin sewing some new clothes! I'm looking forward to it.
I finished some pillows for a friend and I'm going to crochet an afghan for another friend so I'm keeping busy. I've also finished 3 audio books in the last 2 weeks and look forward to some more this weekend. Well I guess that's about all I know for now. I need to wrap up the week. Have a great weekend all!
The rest of the month has gone along. Work has been a chore day after day, but I keep at it. Today has been particularly frustrating - more complaints from the problem employee I inherited. I'm just glad it's Friday and I'm going home for the weekend in less than two hours!
We are actually having a make-your-own-pizza and game night tonight and I'm hoping my energy level will pick back up when I'm in a better environment, because I want to have a good time and enjoy my friends, but right now I'm exhausted.
The best news of all is that Mom and Dad are home on US soil!! I think they are almost over the jet lag and have already been busy accomplishing all the things that need doing so they can hit the road. They've got a phone, the computers are ready to go, they picked up their new van yesterday and it supposedly has it all!! Mom said they are going to start organizing and repacking tomorrow as she wants to have it done before the shipment from Thailand arrives.
A couple weeks ago I got 3 dresses cut out and also made a trip to Jo-Ann's Etc. to get some sewing supplies (thread, zippers, ribbon) and some yarn - I have several baby afghans to be working on. Tomorrow I intend to cut out 2 more dresses and some pairs of pants and begin sewing some new clothes! I'm looking forward to it.
I finished some pillows for a friend and I'm going to crochet an afghan for another friend so I'm keeping busy. I've also finished 3 audio books in the last 2 weeks and look forward to some more this weekend. Well I guess that's about all I know for now. I need to wrap up the week. Have a great weekend all!
Tuesday, January 29
No, I haven't fallen off the face of the earth, at least not yet!
Well, I'm sure that many of you gave up on me months ago, but I really am still here. There are many times that I've had things to write about or wanted to say and I just didn't get it done. No excuses.
So in an attempt to catch you up a little, or for those of you new to this to give you a little background...
The fall season here was glorious once it finally arrived, but I can't say as much for the winter. Though it's been cold - I'm enjoying that - we've had almost no snow. A couple weeks ago it did snow for several hours and I got to enjoy it driving to and from the church and walking into and out of choir rehearsal - mostly everyone thought I was crazy, but it energized me! Yes, I truly think I'm an Eskimo at heart!
The holidays were good, though the were spent, once again, far away from my parents. I went on a week's vacation by myself to the Jersey shore for the week of Thanksgiving. I spent the weekend before with my Sara & Dan (cousin and her husband) in the Philly area and got to see Aunt Karen & Uncle Barry as well. Then for the holiday itself I drove up to visit family from my Mom's side, Sandy & Frank, Kathy & Garrett and Matt and his girlfriend. It was a very nice day and I enjoyed it tremendously.
Christmas week I spent with Aunt Mavis & Uncle DeVon. Grandpa came down for a couple days and Matthew & Melissa and Jeremy & Emily were all there for most of Christmas day itself. We enjoyed the food, doing puzzles and playing some games. It was nice to be able to spend more than just a weekend up there, which is all I usually get.
Part of my absence from here has been the busyness that I have gained from now being back to church and very actively involved in choir, my Sunday School class and serving on a Food Team through the Ladies Ministry. I've made many new friends as we've been bowling, to a hockey game, many meals, serving widows by doing yard work, making a meal for a local shelter and on our fall retreat and so much more. I can't tell you how much more content I am to be back into a church that really feels like home. I wish I'd forced myself to do it sooner. If you are one of those on the edges, searching or just out of the habit of being involved in a local church, I strongly encourage you to just jump in! You'll not regret it!
My job on the other hand is still something I really want to change. We did finish, this month, the 2 1/2 years worth of backlog that we had to enter into the imaging system and the boxes have all been hauled off by the Shred-It folks! There have been some challenges with personnel things and we are still working through them. However, I have been able to get back to some of the other smaller projects that I had been putting off due to overload with the backlog files. The overall gist is still that I run an electronic filing department and it is repetitious, tedious and boring. I really long for returning to executive assistant or office manager type work where it is always different and quite often fast-paced.
My creative side has kept busy as well. I made Christmas wreath ornaments from canning jar lids and buttons this year. I also made a baby shower gift (for a couple here at the office) of buttons on a picture frame that really turned out sweet. I have finished two other baby afghans plus a shawl and another full size afghan. The one I'm currenly working on will probably be finished within 2 weeks or less. This past weekend I made two bedroom decorative pillows for a friend and have one more to finish. I've not done my scrapbooking, but I'm hoping to get back to it sooner than later. My stuff has been packed away because I've had people over quite a number of times in the last couple months (including New Year's Eve), and it's either packed away and sitting on the floor in my hobby room (which is a small bedroom that also contains my sewing maching, my computer, one entire wall of bookshelves, a wardrobe full of fabric and a 4-drawer file cabinet) or out on the kitchen table. I do miss it, but I enjoy it more when I have someone to work with and chat with while I'm working. I will also be narrowing down some of my stash in a couple months because Mom and Dad will take back most of their tools once they are here so that may make it more manageable, we'll see.
As always, I'm continually reading. I kept track last year of the books that I finished and intend on doing the same this year. I believe I read over 60 last year. This year I'm off to a good start as I've already finished 3. I'm currently reading The Maltese Falcon as my main book, though those of you who know me well know that I'm never reading just one book at a time. I'm also reading one that has four stories in it called Chesapeake, and am ready to start The Forsyte Saga off of the classics list that our family keeps and reads from. I also need to take a trip to the library soon to pick up some audio books for the car or projects around the house.
Well I suppose that's enough of a shock (for being back) and to absorb (from such a long absence) for now. My intentions are to be writing more frequently, so if you haven't written me off, please give me a second chance! If you have questions or even topics you wonder my opinion on, please feel free for leave me a comment and I'll see what I can do.
God bless you!
So in an attempt to catch you up a little, or for those of you new to this to give you a little background...
The fall season here was glorious once it finally arrived, but I can't say as much for the winter. Though it's been cold - I'm enjoying that - we've had almost no snow. A couple weeks ago it did snow for several hours and I got to enjoy it driving to and from the church and walking into and out of choir rehearsal - mostly everyone thought I was crazy, but it energized me! Yes, I truly think I'm an Eskimo at heart!
The holidays were good, though the were spent, once again, far away from my parents. I went on a week's vacation by myself to the Jersey shore for the week of Thanksgiving. I spent the weekend before with my Sara & Dan (cousin and her husband) in the Philly area and got to see Aunt Karen & Uncle Barry as well. Then for the holiday itself I drove up to visit family from my Mom's side, Sandy & Frank, Kathy & Garrett and Matt and his girlfriend. It was a very nice day and I enjoyed it tremendously.
Christmas week I spent with Aunt Mavis & Uncle DeVon. Grandpa came down for a couple days and Matthew & Melissa and Jeremy & Emily were all there for most of Christmas day itself. We enjoyed the food, doing puzzles and playing some games. It was nice to be able to spend more than just a weekend up there, which is all I usually get.
Part of my absence from here has been the busyness that I have gained from now being back to church and very actively involved in choir, my Sunday School class and serving on a Food Team through the Ladies Ministry. I've made many new friends as we've been bowling, to a hockey game, many meals, serving widows by doing yard work, making a meal for a local shelter and on our fall retreat and so much more. I can't tell you how much more content I am to be back into a church that really feels like home. I wish I'd forced myself to do it sooner. If you are one of those on the edges, searching or just out of the habit of being involved in a local church, I strongly encourage you to just jump in! You'll not regret it!
My job on the other hand is still something I really want to change. We did finish, this month, the 2 1/2 years worth of backlog that we had to enter into the imaging system and the boxes have all been hauled off by the Shred-It folks! There have been some challenges with personnel things and we are still working through them. However, I have been able to get back to some of the other smaller projects that I had been putting off due to overload with the backlog files. The overall gist is still that I run an electronic filing department and it is repetitious, tedious and boring. I really long for returning to executive assistant or office manager type work where it is always different and quite often fast-paced.
My creative side has kept busy as well. I made Christmas wreath ornaments from canning jar lids and buttons this year. I also made a baby shower gift (for a couple here at the office) of buttons on a picture frame that really turned out sweet. I have finished two other baby afghans plus a shawl and another full size afghan. The one I'm currenly working on will probably be finished within 2 weeks or less. This past weekend I made two bedroom decorative pillows for a friend and have one more to finish. I've not done my scrapbooking, but I'm hoping to get back to it sooner than later. My stuff has been packed away because I've had people over quite a number of times in the last couple months (including New Year's Eve), and it's either packed away and sitting on the floor in my hobby room (which is a small bedroom that also contains my sewing maching, my computer, one entire wall of bookshelves, a wardrobe full of fabric and a 4-drawer file cabinet) or out on the kitchen table. I do miss it, but I enjoy it more when I have someone to work with and chat with while I'm working. I will also be narrowing down some of my stash in a couple months because Mom and Dad will take back most of their tools once they are here so that may make it more manageable, we'll see.
As always, I'm continually reading. I kept track last year of the books that I finished and intend on doing the same this year. I believe I read over 60 last year. This year I'm off to a good start as I've already finished 3. I'm currently reading The Maltese Falcon as my main book, though those of you who know me well know that I'm never reading just one book at a time. I'm also reading one that has four stories in it called Chesapeake, and am ready to start The Forsyte Saga off of the classics list that our family keeps and reads from. I also need to take a trip to the library soon to pick up some audio books for the car or projects around the house.
Well I suppose that's enough of a shock (for being back) and to absorb (from such a long absence) for now. My intentions are to be writing more frequently, so if you haven't written me off, please give me a second chance! If you have questions or even topics you wonder my opinion on, please feel free for leave me a comment and I'll see what I can do.
God bless you!
Wednesday, September 12
I'm still here...
Wow! What a hiatus I took without meaning to...
It isn't that I haven't had things to say or share, it's that I haven't had time during the day to type them in and the evenings have been mostly full as well.
I've been waiting (patiently mostly, but more impatiently as time went on) for some time now and today was the day! I walked outside this morning and could actually take a deep breath! It was somewhere south of 80 degrees! Fall is coming!! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!!
I don't enjoy summer, I endure it and so this time comes every year with a sigh of relief and rejuvenation for me! In fact, last night was cooler as well and I even left the screen door open for several hours to get some fresh air in the house.
OK, enough with my obsession on the weather.
Some things I've been doing or have accomplished while I've been away from here:
* Day trip canoeing on the Duck River with my Sunday School class one Saturday
* Music City Jam at riverfront park with 3 friends
* Finished the redo of Ethan's afghan - I'll post the pic as soon as I can
* Reading of many books, of course - currently working on Tale of Two Cities (audio) and The Three Musketeers, both I'm enjoying
* Started a new Bible study with my small group (Beth Moore's Patriarchs)
* Been to a Nashville Sounds game/fireworks after with my Sunday School class (AAA baseball for those of you who don't know)
* 3-day weekend in Indiana the beginning of August
* Delivered my first meal as part of the food team from church
* Spent time with my in-town "family"
* Taken both Isaac and Ethan to lunch separately (this was part of their birthday presents) and Elijah will go next week
* Had 4 friends over (1 of which plays piano) on a Friday night and had a sing along - we sang for over 3 hours and it was a blast!
* Had a Sunday School picnic at a local park for Labor Day
* Choir rehearsals have started again after our summer break
* Did an all day scrap last Saturday, which included an abbreviated spa session, and finished 4 pages!
* Got my quilt pinned so I'm ready to do the quilting and am hoping to start that this coming weekend
Well, I guess those are some of the major things that have been going on around here. I'm heading back up to Grandpa's for the weekend the last weekend of September and then am not planning to travel again until Thanksgiving. Mom and Dad are doing fine. We are all beginning the countdown in earnest now. They have just under 23 weeks to go till they are back in the US and almost 5 weeks after that before they will be here to see me! You can begin praying for them and all the things associated with their return: safe travel, safe arrival of all their belongings and all the things they will need to accomplish in those 4 weeks in Dallas before they hit the road.
For those of you who don't know, they will be traveling around the US (much like they did before they left for Thailand) for the remainder of 2008 and all of 2009. So they must buy a van, buy a cell phone, make and keep any health related appointments with their various docs in Dallas area, spend some time with friends they've not seen and of course the most important tasks of unpacking, repacking and arranging all things in their room in my brother and sister's-in-law house. Changing over from the things they've had with them for the last 3 years to the things they will need to load in the van to live in timeshares for the next 2 years - it is a very daunting and seemingly overwhelming task to contemplate, so please pray especially that they will not be overwhelmed as they begin to plan for this. Also please pray for their remaining time on the field that they will continue to touch lives where they are. Also, even though they are looking forward to coming home, it will be another period of high emotions and adjustments as Chiang Mai has been home for them for 3 years and they have friends and a church there that they will be saying good-bye too.
Well, I must get back to work now - my days are full to capacity and overflowing these days so I mustn't take out too much time. Take care and be sure to leave me your thoughts and comments - I'll do my best to be back sooner this time!
It isn't that I haven't had things to say or share, it's that I haven't had time during the day to type them in and the evenings have been mostly full as well.
I've been waiting (patiently mostly, but more impatiently as time went on) for some time now and today was the day! I walked outside this morning and could actually take a deep breath! It was somewhere south of 80 degrees! Fall is coming!! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!!
I don't enjoy summer, I endure it and so this time comes every year with a sigh of relief and rejuvenation for me! In fact, last night was cooler as well and I even left the screen door open for several hours to get some fresh air in the house.
OK, enough with my obsession on the weather.
Some things I've been doing or have accomplished while I've been away from here:
* Day trip canoeing on the Duck River with my Sunday School class one Saturday
* Music City Jam at riverfront park with 3 friends
* Finished the redo of Ethan's afghan - I'll post the pic as soon as I can
* Reading of many books, of course - currently working on Tale of Two Cities (audio) and The Three Musketeers, both I'm enjoying
* Started a new Bible study with my small group (Beth Moore's Patriarchs)
* Been to a Nashville Sounds game/fireworks after with my Sunday School class (AAA baseball for those of you who don't know)
* 3-day weekend in Indiana the beginning of August
* Delivered my first meal as part of the food team from church
* Spent time with my in-town "family"
* Taken both Isaac and Ethan to lunch separately (this was part of their birthday presents) and Elijah will go next week
* Had 4 friends over (1 of which plays piano) on a Friday night and had a sing along - we sang for over 3 hours and it was a blast!
* Had a Sunday School picnic at a local park for Labor Day
* Choir rehearsals have started again after our summer break
* Did an all day scrap last Saturday, which included an abbreviated spa session, and finished 4 pages!
* Got my quilt pinned so I'm ready to do the quilting and am hoping to start that this coming weekend
Well, I guess those are some of the major things that have been going on around here. I'm heading back up to Grandpa's for the weekend the last weekend of September and then am not planning to travel again until Thanksgiving. Mom and Dad are doing fine. We are all beginning the countdown in earnest now. They have just under 23 weeks to go till they are back in the US and almost 5 weeks after that before they will be here to see me! You can begin praying for them and all the things associated with their return: safe travel, safe arrival of all their belongings and all the things they will need to accomplish in those 4 weeks in Dallas before they hit the road.
For those of you who don't know, they will be traveling around the US (much like they did before they left for Thailand) for the remainder of 2008 and all of 2009. So they must buy a van, buy a cell phone, make and keep any health related appointments with their various docs in Dallas area, spend some time with friends they've not seen and of course the most important tasks of unpacking, repacking and arranging all things in their room in my brother and sister's-in-law house. Changing over from the things they've had with them for the last 3 years to the things they will need to load in the van to live in timeshares for the next 2 years - it is a very daunting and seemingly overwhelming task to contemplate, so please pray especially that they will not be overwhelmed as they begin to plan for this. Also please pray for their remaining time on the field that they will continue to touch lives where they are. Also, even though they are looking forward to coming home, it will be another period of high emotions and adjustments as Chiang Mai has been home for them for 3 years and they have friends and a church there that they will be saying good-bye too.
Well, I must get back to work now - my days are full to capacity and overflowing these days so I mustn't take out too much time. Take care and be sure to leave me your thoughts and comments - I'll do my best to be back sooner this time!
Wednesday, July 25
More Project Pics!
These are some more projects from last year and this. The first three were baby gifts when Anna joined the family!
These next three are afghans for the boys! The beginning of 2006 they saw took interest in what I was crocheting (an afghan at that time) and decided that they all wanted one too. The red was knitted and is Ethan's. As a side note, the beginning of this spring it got a hole in it and I took it back to mend. Just recently, after finishing the current project, I pulled this out to take care of and decided it would be smarter to just tear it all out and remake it. This time I'm crocheting it and will put up another pic of the redone when it is finished. The "ocean blue" one is Elijah's and the yellow one is Isaac's. They each got to pick the color they wanted theirs made in.
This last one was a baby gift for my friend Leigh Ann who had a baby girl early in May.
Thanks for taking a look at all the final products of my many creative outlets! If I can ever do anything for you, please let me know, I'm happy to take on projects I enjoy for reasonable fees!
This last one is a bit different than my normal projects, but I really felt God calling me to do give a housewarming gift to a couple married just over a year this spring. Below is what I pulled together. In the envelope tied to the pitcher I put quite a few drink recipes (nicely printed out with a border) on some card stock. The the ingredients in the basket are some of the things that the recipes called for. It was really fun doing this one!
Thanks for taking a look at all the final products of my many creative outlets! If I can ever do anything for you, please let me know, I'm happy to take on projects I enjoy for reasonable fees!Sharing After a Short Sabbatical
Oh, wow! I knew it had been a while since I'd blogged, but I'd no idea it had been over a month! Well I've been busy, but nothing big or life-changing. I've recently gotten a ton of pics downloaded off my camera so I thought I'd share some with you. These are some of the projects that I finished in the last year or so.
These first four are bookmarks and coasters that were Christmas gifts this past Christmas.
This one is a scarf for my sister-in-law for Christmas.
These first four are bookmarks and coasters that were Christmas gifts this past Christmas.
This one is a scarf for my sister-in-law for Christmas.
Many of these are projects that I have written about earlier or at least alluded to, so I thought better late than never in getting some pictures up for all to see.
Monday, June 18
Memphis
A week and a half ago I made an overnight trip to the Memphis area. I drove over after work on Friday night and checked in to the Marriott, courtesy of Mom and Dad, since I was there on business for them. I had two appointments for the next day at two different retirement communities.
They have decided, through prayer and consideration and discussion that building a home on the lot they own in Hot Springs Village, AR is not what they are supposed to do next. As most of you probably know, they will be done with their field assignment next February and will be back here in the US by the end of that month. They will then buy a mini-van and pack up like they did early in 2004 and will spend the rest of 2008 and all of 2009 travelling the US from timeshare to timeshare. At that time they intend to move into a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Center), which is why we are beginning the research and info gathering now. Some of these places have waiting lists.
So over the last 6 weeks or so, we have all been searching the web and they have begun contacting places via email and having the info packets sent to me. I visited one place here in Brentwood and then the two places mentioned above in the Memphis suburb of Germantown. I talked with them just Saturday morning to let them know all I had learned last week. We have now enough education to begin a little weeding out of places that we know will not work for them. I have two more places to visit in the Fort Wayne, IN area when I head up there next (probably the first weekend of August).
All that to say that I had a really nice day in Germantown and had plenty of leisure time to drive around the area a little. I also had researched enough in advance to find a scrapbook store in the area. I was able to spend about an hour browsing at Remember When Scrapbooking (www.rememberwhenss.com) and really enjoyed myself. I got some great deals too - I got 7 12x12 sheets all on sale, 2 tag sheets that were also on sale and 3 QK dies that were 30% off! Add in one more pad of liquid chalk that was on sale and I got all for $25.01! Plus since I spent over $20 I got 4 more 12x12 sheet for free! All in all I was ecstatic with my frugal finds of things I know I will use.
I also found a nice little lunch place in between appointments and enjoyed eating my lunch and reading my book! Yummy creamy tomato dill soup and a slice of spinach quiche - I couldn't have found anything better!
So if you are ever headed to or through Memphis, make sure you check out Germantown - it's really a nice place. More news on other things coming soon... Don't miss it!
They have decided, through prayer and consideration and discussion that building a home on the lot they own in Hot Springs Village, AR is not what they are supposed to do next. As most of you probably know, they will be done with their field assignment next February and will be back here in the US by the end of that month. They will then buy a mini-van and pack up like they did early in 2004 and will spend the rest of 2008 and all of 2009 travelling the US from timeshare to timeshare. At that time they intend to move into a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Center), which is why we are beginning the research and info gathering now. Some of these places have waiting lists.
So over the last 6 weeks or so, we have all been searching the web and they have begun contacting places via email and having the info packets sent to me. I visited one place here in Brentwood and then the two places mentioned above in the Memphis suburb of Germantown. I talked with them just Saturday morning to let them know all I had learned last week. We have now enough education to begin a little weeding out of places that we know will not work for them. I have two more places to visit in the Fort Wayne, IN area when I head up there next (probably the first weekend of August).
All that to say that I had a really nice day in Germantown and had plenty of leisure time to drive around the area a little. I also had researched enough in advance to find a scrapbook store in the area. I was able to spend about an hour browsing at Remember When Scrapbooking (www.rememberwhenss.com) and really enjoyed myself. I got some great deals too - I got 7 12x12 sheets all on sale, 2 tag sheets that were also on sale and 3 QK dies that were 30% off! Add in one more pad of liquid chalk that was on sale and I got all for $25.01! Plus since I spent over $20 I got 4 more 12x12 sheet for free! All in all I was ecstatic with my frugal finds of things I know I will use.
I also found a nice little lunch place in between appointments and enjoyed eating my lunch and reading my book! Yummy creamy tomato dill soup and a slice of spinach quiche - I couldn't have found anything better!
So if you are ever headed to or through Memphis, make sure you check out Germantown - it's really a nice place. More news on other things coming soon... Don't miss it!
Friday, June 8
New and newsy stuff!
It's already June. I feel like I've been very remiss here. I had a good Memorial Day weekend with my aunt and uncle in the Dayton, OH area. My uncle works at Wright-Patterson AFB and has for as long as I can remember - first as a member of the AF and now as a civilian. Anyhow, there is a air museum there and I have not been since I was a little girl, but my uncle has been volunteering there on weekends for several years now. Since we had a 3-day weekend, we went a spent a couple hours going through. It was nice to have our own personal tour guide so we could keep up a nice pace and he hit all the highlights and answered questions for my aunt and I.
I also want to give tribute here to my parents - they celebrated their 39th anniversary on June 1! They said they went to a really nice French restaurant for dinner and had a really nice time. Yes, a French restaurant in Chiang Mai. I praise the Lord often for giving me to parents who love Him wholeheartedly and serve Him diligently. I am blessed to have been raised in a loving home that follows God in everything and I congratulate them on all the hard work over these 39 years and pray that they will continue to enjoy life together and reap the blessings they have sown in not only my life, but the lives of so many others. Thanks Mom and Dad - I love you!
And speaking of my parents, tonight I'm heading to Memphis to do some research for them tomorrow. After much prayer and discussion that have determined that they will not be building a retirement home on the lot they own at Hot Springs Village. They have decided that they will find a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Center) that runs the full spectrum of independent living (in a stand alone home or duplex or townhouse) to assisted living to nursing care to alzheimers care. This is the type of place that my grandparents chose many years ago and has been a blessing to them as well as the rest of our family. I'm sure it will be the same for my parents and our family too. So that said, the search has begun. They've had many packets of info sent to me and I'm going to be visiting as many places as I can to gather more specific info and get a look at/feel for each place. Then they will be able to narrow it down some and will do their own visiting next year as they travel the States.
I'll be back in town tomorrow evening in time to go to a game night for my new Sunday School class. This will be my first social activity with the class and I'm looking forward to it. It is at the home of one of the girls in my small group Bible study (which I started May 24), and she only lives about 10 minutes from me. I'm feeling at home now in this new place and am intending to join the church this Sunday. I also spoke to another girl in my Bible study who is a choir member and I'm planning to go for the first time next week. Once again the Lord has been faithful to lead me where He wants me to be and all is good. It feels really good to be back involved and attending on a regular basis. My singles class does a lot of mission projects and I'm looking forward to participating in many of those as well. The church as a whole is very mission minded and does a lot of mission work here in the community, in other states and around the world.
Well, I need to get back to work and finish up some things before I hit the road tonight. Thanks for checking in - please feel free to leave me comments, thoughts, questions, or topics you'd like to hear my thoughts on. I really enjoy hearing from you too!
Blessings on you and yours this weekend!
I also want to give tribute here to my parents - they celebrated their 39th anniversary on June 1! They said they went to a really nice French restaurant for dinner and had a really nice time. Yes, a French restaurant in Chiang Mai. I praise the Lord often for giving me to parents who love Him wholeheartedly and serve Him diligently. I am blessed to have been raised in a loving home that follows God in everything and I congratulate them on all the hard work over these 39 years and pray that they will continue to enjoy life together and reap the blessings they have sown in not only my life, but the lives of so many others. Thanks Mom and Dad - I love you!
And speaking of my parents, tonight I'm heading to Memphis to do some research for them tomorrow. After much prayer and discussion that have determined that they will not be building a retirement home on the lot they own at Hot Springs Village. They have decided that they will find a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Center) that runs the full spectrum of independent living (in a stand alone home or duplex or townhouse) to assisted living to nursing care to alzheimers care. This is the type of place that my grandparents chose many years ago and has been a blessing to them as well as the rest of our family. I'm sure it will be the same for my parents and our family too. So that said, the search has begun. They've had many packets of info sent to me and I'm going to be visiting as many places as I can to gather more specific info and get a look at/feel for each place. Then they will be able to narrow it down some and will do their own visiting next year as they travel the States.
I'll be back in town tomorrow evening in time to go to a game night for my new Sunday School class. This will be my first social activity with the class and I'm looking forward to it. It is at the home of one of the girls in my small group Bible study (which I started May 24), and she only lives about 10 minutes from me. I'm feeling at home now in this new place and am intending to join the church this Sunday. I also spoke to another girl in my Bible study who is a choir member and I'm planning to go for the first time next week. Once again the Lord has been faithful to lead me where He wants me to be and all is good. It feels really good to be back involved and attending on a regular basis. My singles class does a lot of mission projects and I'm looking forward to participating in many of those as well. The church as a whole is very mission minded and does a lot of mission work here in the community, in other states and around the world.
Well, I need to get back to work and finish up some things before I hit the road tonight. Thanks for checking in - please feel free to leave me comments, thoughts, questions, or topics you'd like to hear my thoughts on. I really enjoy hearing from you too!
Blessings on you and yours this weekend!
Tuesday, May 15
May is running by...
Well, I finally sat down and did some scrapping on Saturday evening and accomplished 4 pages. I was pleased with what I finished and am hoping to do some more this coming weekend. I even did my first scraplift ever! It was interesting to do something that way. I think it took me longer than creating my own usually does, but I like how it turned out. I also finished another big chunk of pictures with those 4 pages and on Sunday afternoon I got out the next big set of pics and began sifting through them to know what I've got. It's actually from my first time to ever use one of Mom and Dad's timeshares by myself with friends. It was the summer of 1993 and the place was Weirs Beach, NH, right on Lake Winnipesaukee. So I've also done a little research in the last couple days, looking up the names of places we visited and correct spellings, etc. Then I won't have to be back and forth to the computer when I'm ready to work on the pages.
In other news, the current afghan is moving right along. It is actually a pattern done in strips and I'm just finishing the 4th of 9 strips so I'm getting close to half done with it. I wore my new skirt to church on Sunday and it made me feel good! I'm looking forward to maybe getting some other things made to wear, rather than the fabric just sitting in my wardrobe and closet. It's so hard for two reasons. There are so many things I enjoy doing and it's hard to split my time between all of them and yet still feel like I'm accomplishing something. Secondly, on the sewing front, I so want to lose some weight and am really trying to eat well and have started walking (twice a week as of right now, with Susannah), that I want to wait till I do that to make all new clothes. But if I keep putting it off and I don't lose then it all just sits there. What a vicious cycle! Anyway, I think I'm going to have to at least make some new pants for work because the ones I have are getting worn and I'm definitely not going to go spend money on new ones when I already have the fabric and thread. I will have to get some zippers, but that's it! I'll keep you posted.
I also have a new project I'm helping my parents with... they have decided that they are not going to build a home in Hot Springs Village, AR where they have a lot and had intended to retire. They've realized instead that it really would be better to find a continuing care retirement center (like where Grandpa lives) and move into it instead. Then they will not have to ever move again. So we have begun the research, learning and information gathering campaign. We spent a couple weeks looking at stuff on the internet and they began to narrow some things down. There is one here in Brentwood, that is fairly new and interested them so I went last Thursday night and met with a lady to get all the nitty gritty. She spent over 3 hours with me and really gave me a lot of great information and tips. This particular place is way out of their price range, but it was really a great place to start for learning about this type thing in general. In June I will be making a couple trips to check out some places for them. One about halfway to Knoxville and a couple over in Germantown (suburb Memphis). I'm also planning a trip to visit Grandpa near the end of July and will probably meet with someone at his place and an additional one in Fort Wayne. I also got an email from Mom today that they've found another one in Nashville and there is one in Murfreesboro that we aren't sure about, but that I will check on in case. So, those of you who are so inclined, please keep the family in your prayers as we work through all of this over the next couple years - there's alot to learn and alot to decide on.
One more note on the "new" board. I'm going to begin going to a small group Bible study with some girls from my Sunday school class. We meet at our teachers' home once a week and they are just ready to start a new study so it's perfect timing. I'll go for the first time this Thursday and we will have a get-acquainted time and small devotional and then next week will begin the new book. I'm excited about this, I know myself well enough from times past and know that this will help me tremendously to get fully plugged into the new group and the new church. Thank you Lord, for showing me this opportunity!
Well, I guess this has grown quite a bit longer than I had planned, but at least catches up most areas of the doings of my daily life. Have a great rest of the week and hopefully I'll have more to share with you in the very near future!
In other news, the current afghan is moving right along. It is actually a pattern done in strips and I'm just finishing the 4th of 9 strips so I'm getting close to half done with it. I wore my new skirt to church on Sunday and it made me feel good! I'm looking forward to maybe getting some other things made to wear, rather than the fabric just sitting in my wardrobe and closet. It's so hard for two reasons. There are so many things I enjoy doing and it's hard to split my time between all of them and yet still feel like I'm accomplishing something. Secondly, on the sewing front, I so want to lose some weight and am really trying to eat well and have started walking (twice a week as of right now, with Susannah), that I want to wait till I do that to make all new clothes. But if I keep putting it off and I don't lose then it all just sits there. What a vicious cycle! Anyway, I think I'm going to have to at least make some new pants for work because the ones I have are getting worn and I'm definitely not going to go spend money on new ones when I already have the fabric and thread. I will have to get some zippers, but that's it! I'll keep you posted.
I also have a new project I'm helping my parents with... they have decided that they are not going to build a home in Hot Springs Village, AR where they have a lot and had intended to retire. They've realized instead that it really would be better to find a continuing care retirement center (like where Grandpa lives) and move into it instead. Then they will not have to ever move again. So we have begun the research, learning and information gathering campaign. We spent a couple weeks looking at stuff on the internet and they began to narrow some things down. There is one here in Brentwood, that is fairly new and interested them so I went last Thursday night and met with a lady to get all the nitty gritty. She spent over 3 hours with me and really gave me a lot of great information and tips. This particular place is way out of their price range, but it was really a great place to start for learning about this type thing in general. In June I will be making a couple trips to check out some places for them. One about halfway to Knoxville and a couple over in Germantown (suburb Memphis). I'm also planning a trip to visit Grandpa near the end of July and will probably meet with someone at his place and an additional one in Fort Wayne. I also got an email from Mom today that they've found another one in Nashville and there is one in Murfreesboro that we aren't sure about, but that I will check on in case. So, those of you who are so inclined, please keep the family in your prayers as we work through all of this over the next couple years - there's alot to learn and alot to decide on.
One more note on the "new" board. I'm going to begin going to a small group Bible study with some girls from my Sunday school class. We meet at our teachers' home once a week and they are just ready to start a new study so it's perfect timing. I'll go for the first time this Thursday and we will have a get-acquainted time and small devotional and then next week will begin the new book. I'm excited about this, I know myself well enough from times past and know that this will help me tremendously to get fully plugged into the new group and the new church. Thank you Lord, for showing me this opportunity!
Well, I guess this has grown quite a bit longer than I had planned, but at least catches up most areas of the doings of my daily life. Have a great rest of the week and hopefully I'll have more to share with you in the very near future!
Monday, April 30
Busy times...
Well, it's been a busy month. I've been to two birthday parties, a weekend in Indiana with my Grandpa and I had a great Easter Sunday with my "local" family. Work has been busy too. We finally got the approval to get another temp in here to help us out in finishing all the backfile process. We've done the interviewing, chosen, and just found out that our first choice didn't pass the background check, so we will start the drug screen and background check on the second choice tomorrow. Hopefully it will go more smoothly. Overall, though I've made some significant process in the portion of the daily grind that is my person repsonsibility.
I also finished two baby gifts this month and have started on a new afghan. I've delivered one of the gifts and as soon as I've sent the other one, I'll try to remember to post some pictures of them. This past weekend I also cut out a skirt and a skort for me. I finished the skirt yesterday, all I have to do is hand stitch on the hook and eye and then I'll be able to wear it. I've finished several books too, including some audio ones - I've done a good job so far in keeping up a list of everything I've read since the beginning of the year.
The most exciting thing that I've picked up this month is some new habits. A friend of mine told me about the FlyLady (you can get all the details at www.flylady.net) and both she and I have started. I'm learning so many things about how to organize, declutter and clean my house in a manageable way that works for me! I'm seeing progress and I'm working towards being able to have the ability to invite people over to my house again on a fairly regular basis and have room for them to move around, be comfortable and enjoy themselves. This is so exciting to me I just had to share! If you are like I was and feel like you are never going to be able to get it under control - check out this site and see what you think!
I've recently cleaned off my kitchen table too and thus have back the space that I use to scrapbook, so I'm looking forward to working on some pages in the near future. I think part of me has gotten so used to doing this when I'm with friends that it just isn't quite the same to sit at home and do it by myself. I need to just get over this and sit down and start - once I get started I enjoy it, but I just keep putting it off wishing I had the room to invite others over.
Well, I suppose that doesn't seem like as much when you write it down, but I guess it filled up my month just fine! Oh, Grandpa sent some more lilac bush shoots home with me and I planted them and are keeping them well-watered hoping that they will take well. If they do, along with the 2 others that survived from the first planting campaign in 2004, it will make a nice little hedge row someday along the back of my carport. Someday they will have grown enough to blossom - I can't wait, they are some of my favorites. I also got several blossoms from my irise this spring too and have been enjoying them.
So, it's almost May already and hard to believe that 1/3 of the year is gone. I need to get going on some of the things that I was wanting to work on this year! How about you? How are you doing on your yearly goals or "want to improves"? Hopefully well! If not, now is the perfect opportunity to get back into it!
Smile - God loves you!
I also finished two baby gifts this month and have started on a new afghan. I've delivered one of the gifts and as soon as I've sent the other one, I'll try to remember to post some pictures of them. This past weekend I also cut out a skirt and a skort for me. I finished the skirt yesterday, all I have to do is hand stitch on the hook and eye and then I'll be able to wear it. I've finished several books too, including some audio ones - I've done a good job so far in keeping up a list of everything I've read since the beginning of the year.
The most exciting thing that I've picked up this month is some new habits. A friend of mine told me about the FlyLady (you can get all the details at www.flylady.net) and both she and I have started. I'm learning so many things about how to organize, declutter and clean my house in a manageable way that works for me! I'm seeing progress and I'm working towards being able to have the ability to invite people over to my house again on a fairly regular basis and have room for them to move around, be comfortable and enjoy themselves. This is so exciting to me I just had to share! If you are like I was and feel like you are never going to be able to get it under control - check out this site and see what you think!
I've recently cleaned off my kitchen table too and thus have back the space that I use to scrapbook, so I'm looking forward to working on some pages in the near future. I think part of me has gotten so used to doing this when I'm with friends that it just isn't quite the same to sit at home and do it by myself. I need to just get over this and sit down and start - once I get started I enjoy it, but I just keep putting it off wishing I had the room to invite others over.
Well, I suppose that doesn't seem like as much when you write it down, but I guess it filled up my month just fine! Oh, Grandpa sent some more lilac bush shoots home with me and I planted them and are keeping them well-watered hoping that they will take well. If they do, along with the 2 others that survived from the first planting campaign in 2004, it will make a nice little hedge row someday along the back of my carport. Someday they will have grown enough to blossom - I can't wait, they are some of my favorites. I also got several blossoms from my irise this spring too and have been enjoying them.
So, it's almost May already and hard to believe that 1/3 of the year is gone. I need to get going on some of the things that I was wanting to work on this year! How about you? How are you doing on your yearly goals or "want to improves"? Hopefully well! If not, now is the perfect opportunity to get back into it!
Smile - God loves you!
Thursday, April 5
Joy... Joy? Joy!
I so enjoy the deep conversations that I'm able to share with very close friends of mine on a regular basis. Our topics run a wide range, but it just so happens that we touched on the topic of joy a few nights ago. Realizing how many of us as Christians miss out on the Joy of the Lord, for more reasons than we can even fathom. Joy is one of those complex things that is part of the mystery of Christ. It is more than just being happy. You can have joy even while you are walking through dark days. Joy is something that I think we should let the world see more often because it is at least one if not the only thing that the unsaved world can see as a difference in us that might attract them to God Almighty. If they see us only as having the same grumblings and problems as they encounter, but don't see a difference in how we handle things, or our inner attitude of dealing with life as it happens, what exactly is it that's different about becoming a Christian that is worth it.
They need to see the joy...
so that they will come closer and wonder about the hope...
and become curious enough to ask about the love...
and then we can explain the sacrifice, the Salvation and the grace.
We need to immerse ourselves in the joy that God has given us and then let that overflow out of us into those lives that come in touch with ours everyday. ("The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks." Luke 6:45). They need to see a difference! I was reminded again today as the radio station I listen to played this simple song by Cheri Keaggy. If you've not heard it, I recommend you call your local station and request it, then sit back and soak it up!
There Is Joy In The Lord
Cheri Keaggy
CHORUS:
There is joy in the Lord,
There is love in His Spirit.
There is hope in the knowledge of Him.
There's a fountain that flows,
Like a river from heaven
Abounding in love to my soul.
VERSE:
All blessing and honor are His,
All glory and power are His.
Let all wisdom and strength be the Lord's in this place.
Let all glory be given to Him.
CHORUS 2:
There is joy in the Lord,
There is love in His Spirit.
There is hope in the knowledge of Him.
There's a fountain I know
Every time I am near it
My heart overflows to the Lord.
Words and Music by Cheri Keaggy© 1992 Sparrow Song (BMI) (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing)
CCLI Song ID #1184209
They need to see the joy...
so that they will come closer and wonder about the hope...
and become curious enough to ask about the love...
and then we can explain the sacrifice, the Salvation and the grace.
We need to immerse ourselves in the joy that God has given us and then let that overflow out of us into those lives that come in touch with ours everyday. ("The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks." Luke 6:45). They need to see a difference! I was reminded again today as the radio station I listen to played this simple song by Cheri Keaggy. If you've not heard it, I recommend you call your local station and request it, then sit back and soak it up!
There Is Joy In The Lord
Cheri Keaggy
CHORUS:
There is joy in the Lord,
There is love in His Spirit.
There is hope in the knowledge of Him.
There's a fountain that flows,
Like a river from heaven
Abounding in love to my soul.
VERSE:
All blessing and honor are His,
All glory and power are His.
Let all wisdom and strength be the Lord's in this place.
Let all glory be given to Him.
CHORUS 2:
There is joy in the Lord,
There is love in His Spirit.
There is hope in the knowledge of Him.
There's a fountain I know
Every time I am near it
My heart overflows to the Lord.
Words and Music by Cheri Keaggy© 1992 Sparrow Song (BMI) (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing)
CCLI Song ID #1184209
Monday, March 26
Us
Just thought you might like to see a few of the three of us that we were able to gather from throughout our time together. We had a really great time over these two weeks and now I pray that God will keep us all safe until we meet again.
