Up Date

Hello All, sorry it has been a while since I have posted about me. Here it is the end of the year and for me it has been eventful. The past month has been an eye opening experience. On my birthday I thought I had a very bad cold. I went to my Doctor and He wanted some tests done on December 12th. One was an Echo test and the other was an EKG. The ex-ray tech saw something on the EKG and the next thing I new I was in the ER with all kinds of wires hooked up. I know that God was with me because there was a Heart Doctor in the building. What has happened is that my heart rate is out of rhythm. On January 15, 2009 they are going to shock my heart back into rhythm. Then they are going to find out what else was discovered on the Echo test.

Please pray for me that I can keep my eyes of the Lord and have the faith that all will come out like the Lord wants. Thank you all and please have a great New Years.

Merry Christmas

On this day before Christmas I want to wish all a very Merry Christmas.

The Fun Part of Christmas is the title of the Church bulletin for this past Sunday and the article was written by Susan Lytek and I want to share it with you.

I had finished all my shopping and cards very early that year. With everything wrapped and sent my Christmas excitement faded. I looked forward to celebrating with friends and worshiping together, but I didn't really care what I received, planning and actually giving the gifts were the fun parts. I wonder if God felt that way too. Look at all the details He put into planning His gift and revealing clues along the way. Each passing generation learned a little more until, at last. God's present was revealed. Later, Jesus explained God's plan to Nicodemus "God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believed in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3"16)." Imagine God's joy when we accept His Gift!

May we all give thanks for Jesus, our gift from God.

Jesus Is The Reason

I received this from a good friend of mine and want to share it with you. Enjoy

Jesus is Better than Santa
Santa lives at the North Pole.

JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh
JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year
JESUS is an ever present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies
JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited
JESUS stands at your door and knocks.. and then enters your heart.

You have to stand in line to see Santa
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn't know your name, all he can say is "Hi little boy or girl, What's your name?"
JESUS knew our name before we did. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly
JESUS has a heart full of love.

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO
JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says "You better not cry"
JESUS says "Cast all your cares on me for I care for you.

Santa's little helpers make toys
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree
JESUS became our gift and died on the tree.

It's obvious there is really no comparison.
We need to remember WHO Christmas is all about.
We need to put Christ back in Christmas.

Jesus is still the reason for the season.


May the Lord Bless and Watch over you and your loved ones this Christmas 2008
And may He prosper and bless the work of your hands in the New Year.

A Surprise

What wonders medication can do for a person. I am feeling better. More tests on Friday and I will know what is really wrong.

This past Saturday began as most do. Hubby and I were going to travel to Rives Junction, Michgan to pick up 2 girls from the camp our daughter works at and we left mid morning on Saturday. Hubby had a few stops to make along the way so we were taking our time. It began to snow in the afternoon as we were traveling on US 31 on our way to Interstate 69. We made it as far as Shiphewanna, Indiana. There we had a great meal. Snow was still falling so Hubby decided we would stay where we were in a nice motel. Hubby suggested we ride around to see the Christmas lights in town. They were simply beautiful with the snow falling with all the different color lights. Well, here is where a surprise began for my birthday. Hubby said we could stop at the Blue Gate Theater for a piece of pie. We walked around to see the Christmas decorations and then Hubby handed me tickets to see The Collingsworth Family in concert. Mrs. Collingsworth is a great, great piano player. Maybe you have heard them. The evening was one of Christmas songs sung and presented on the piano. This was a surprise of a life time.

Sunday, bright and early we started out for Michigan. All went well until we got within 30 miles of the camp. The car broke down on Inter State 94 just before the exit we take to get gas. We had 2 wonderful angles help push the car to the truck stop. There is a Hardee's in the truck stop, so we got something to drink and Hubby began calling our daughter to tell her about the problem and could she come and get us. This was left as a message on her cell phone. While we were sitting there 2 more angles came along and asked if we were having car problems. They got on their phones to find us help. By the end of an hour they said they would haul our car to Indiana yet Sunday evening. They took us to the camp so we could borrow our daughters car and pick up the 2 girls. We gave the couple a tour of the camp and they were impressed. We have made new friends. The car made it home and has been fixed. The repairs were less than I thought they would be.

61

Happy Birthday to me. Today I am a year older and feel it. For a few years I did not think I would make it to this day. I spent half of the day at the Doctor's Office and 4 hours at the Hospital having tests run. I have had a cold and it has settled in my lungs and I came home with 2 medications and I will have more tests done on Friday. I hope to be feeling better tomorrow and will tell you about the surprise my Hubby gave me for my birthday.

What Can One Candle Do?

I dd not know who wrote this, but the meaning says a lot, so I will share this with you.

When our world seems shrouded in darkness, we may think "What good can one candle do?" But even one small candle can brighten a room. When society advocates wrongdoing, we ask "What good can one person do?" But one honest person can encourage a positive change. Long ago, when God's people were suffering and oppressed, the asked, "What good can one helpless Baby do?" Yet that Baby grew up to be our Savior! Jesus offers us eternal hope today, saying, (I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness John 12:46) This Advent season, let's remember how much good even one can do. One candle can penetrate the darkness, one person can encourage the hopeless, one Jesus can save the world!

Happy Thanksgiving

I want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. If you are traveling I pray for safety. If you are the one cooking I pray that all is going well. Hubby and I are travelling up into Michigan to share with our son-in-laws family. They are really nice people and I praise God for the family our daughter married into. Enjoy your day and say a pray of thanks for all God has done for you.

A Laugh A Day

I received this from a friend and felt that others needed a laugh as I did today.
So enjoy and have a good laugh
SPECIAL POEM FOR
A row of bottles on my shelf
Caused me to analyze myself.
One yellow pill I have to pop
Goes to my heart so it won't stop.
A little white one that I take
Goes to my hands so they won't shake.
The blue ones that I use a lot
Tell me I'm happy when I'm not.
The purple pill goes to my brain
And tells me that I have no pain.
The capsules tell me not to wheeze
Or cough or choke or even sneeze.
The red ones, smallest of them all
Go to my blood so I won't fall.
The orange ones, very big and bright
Prevent my leg cramps in the night.
Such an array of brilliant pills
Helping to cure all kinds of ills.
But what I'd really like to know
Is what tells each one where to go!

There's always a lot to be thankful for if
you take time to look for it. For example
I am sitting here thinking how nice it is

that wrinkles don't hurt...


Have a wonderful day and laugh often!

Learning To Share

This was the topic of our Sunday Bulletin and I would like to share it with you. It does not say who wrote it and I am claiming I did not write it and I am just making a copy of it.

We teach our children at an early age the importance of sharing. It is considered one of the socialization skills necessary for good development. As we grow older our sharing changes. Instead of toys and games we share our money, time, and talents where they are needed. But we often have difficulty sharing our most valuable resource-the message of salvation and God's love. We encounter those who need to hear it, but because of our busy schedules, insecurities, or even embarrassment, we fail to share the life-giving news Jesus commanded. "Go home to thy friends,and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee" (Mark 5:19) Have we learned to share?

Today is Veterans Day and Hubby and I will be attending a program at our local High School. At this time I would like to honor each and every man and woman who gave up part of their time or their lives to participate in wars and conflicts to save our freedoms here in the United States.

Autumn Blessing

As I was looking out my living room window seeing the different colors of fall I thought of this picture I had saved. Oh, how beautiful God had made it this year. A lot of the leaves are off the trees and blowing from one yard to another. All signs of a season many enjoy.

Here on the farm Hubby is picking corn and spending time in line at the elevator visiting with neighbors. I believe this is the time of year many farmers enjoy. They are seeing the fruits of their labor. Also, they have the time to visit with each other. Yesterday, I rode to town with Hubby in a big farm truck loaded to over following with bright yellow corn. This is the time we have to talk peacefully since we waited in line for an hour.

November 4, 2008 is less two days away and I want to encourage all to go to the polls to vote. In many states there are different issues to vote for that are very important to many people in that state. There are individuals running for office who different voters need to consider.

In July I was not going to vote. Then I listened to each of the conventions and realized I needed to go to the polls. From that time I was just not going to vote for President and vote the rest of the ticket. As I was listening to the adds on the TV and Radio and new that I had to vote for a President. All I know is that each person has to pray before going to the polls and vote for the best person.

What I think is funny is both parties felt Indiana, the state I live in, is important.

Please go vote and then the United States can begin to heal from our resent problems.

This is not what I woke up to this morning, but in a month or two the weather here in Indiana will look like it. We had about a inch of snow and most of it was on the windows of the car and truck. Hubby was so good and brushed the snow of the car, but by the time I went out the cleared windows has frosted over.

Hubby is now setting in a new outdoor wood stove and I should have heat by Thursday. We have to put in 400 gallon of water and that will take some time since we only turn the water on a slow stream. Then He will start picking corn. First,He has to change the bean head to the corn head. I am praying the corn will be better in yield than the beans. The rain we received from IKE did our beans no good. The corn is on higher ground and it looks really good. We do not dry our corn so Hubby wants to wait for the moister to go down some.

A Name

I received this from a friend and looked up my name. There is only one of my whole name in the United States. I guess I could consider myself special. There are 55,804 people with the name Joyce and 489 with my last name. You may check it out if you want. You will find the button by scrolling down past the postings.

From one pumpkin to another!!!!!!!
A woman was asked by a coworker, 'What is it like to be a Christian?'
The coworker replied, 'It is like being a pumpkin.' God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. Then He cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff.
He removes the seeds of doubt, hate, and greed. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see.'

Hugs

I know every one needs a hug and here is my. Have a great day

Love and Hugs

Pass The Butter, Please

I took this article out of a newspaper I receive from Share of the Food. This organization distributes affordable food to 60 communities in Illinois and Indiana once a month. They are able to by in large quantities. This month we received Asian grill turkey strips, chicken drums, smoked sausage with cheese, crane asada beef steak, red potatoes, apples, oranges, carrots, grapefruit, lettuce, cauliflower and grape tomatoes. You may have seen this before, but I had not and thought the article was very interesting.

"This is interesting...Margarine was originally manufactured to fatten turkeys. When it killed the turkeys, the people who had put all the money into the research wanted a payback so they put their heads together to figure out what to do with this product to get their money back. I was a white substance with no food appeal so they added the yellow coloring and sold it to people to use in place of butter. Ho do you like it? They have come out with some clever new flavorings.

DO YOU KNOW the difference between margarine and butter?... Both have the same amount of calories. Butter is slightly higher in saturated fats at 8 grams compared to 5 grams. Eating margarine can increase heart disease in women by 53% over eating the same amount of butter, according to a recent Harvard Medical Study. Eating butter increases the absorption of many other nutrients in other foods. Butter has many nutritional benefits where margarine has a few only because they are added! Butter tastes much better that margarine than margarine and it can enhance the flavors of otehr food. Butter has been around for centuries where margarine has been around for less than 100 years.

NOW FOR MARGARINE... Very high in trans fatty acids. Triple risk of coronary heart disease. Increases total cholesterol and LDL (this is the bad cholesterol) and lowers HDL (this good cholesterol). Increases the risk of cancers up to five fold. Lowers quality of breast milk. Decreases immune response. Decreases insulin response.... Margarine us but ONE MOLECULE away from being PLASTIC. this fact alone was enough to have me avoiding margarine for life and anything else that is hydrogenated (this means hydrogen is added,changing the molecular structure of the substance).

You can try this yourself. Purchase a tub of margarine and leave it in your garage or shaded area.

One Busy Week

Have you ever had a week packed with wonderful things happening every day. I just had one of those weeks. The week began with substitute teaching for two days for a Middle School for a Business teacher. I supervised 6th graders in learning to use the key board with their fingers in the right place, the 7th graders are learning how to write checks and keeping a check registry, and the 8th grade learning what Economic is. In the state of Indiana a state wide test is given to students to evaluate their knowledge in a number of subjects. The students had to take these tests in the morning and in the afternoon go to class. Tuesday morning this test began for the Middle School I was visiting. I proctored a test for one student. When we sat down the student said he could not read could I read for him. I was in complete shock, a student who is in the 7th grade who can not read. Well, I read and he answered the questions. Then the next hour I was a scribe for an 8th grader who had broken a bones in his wrist on the hand he writes with. That was interesting since I am a bad speller. He did a good job with his thoughts, but did not follow the instructions. For both students all I wanted to do was tell them what they needed to correct to do a better job, but I could not. Then on Wednesday, I proctored a math test. I am not for sure what the Indiana Education Department thinks, but I saw student so frustrated they were almost in tears.

Thursday was a day of cleaning house and washing clothes and hanging those clothes on the cloth line. The reason for the cleaning of the house was our youngest daughter and her husband were coming home on Friday. Friday was the greatest day of the week. The office Hubby works out of had their Christmas party in September. We drove to Shipshewana, Indiana (this is an Amish community) to go to the Blue Gate Theater to see Mark Lowry and Tony Campolo preforming together. If you have a chance to see either of these two men go. I laughed and cried and went away with joy in my heart. For our daughter and Her Hubby we got tickets for this performance for their birthdays and anniversary. In the package was included an overnight stay in an Amish motel, eating supper in an Amish restaurant, and going for a carriage ride. The supper consisted of fried chicken, roast beef, mash potatoes and gravy, home made noddles, green beans, home made bread, home made pie, and drinks of our choice. Lets say no one went away hungry.

The week ended with Hubby and I serving chicken for a benefit during a Fall Feasible in a neighboring town. I saw people I had not seen for a year or so. I put cookies on a small plate and visited for two hours. The benefit was for an organization that warehouses can goods to distribute to individuals who need it. They provide food for 10 different communities in the area.

Well, I do not know what this next week is going to provide, but I can not wait to see what God has planed for me

I received this from a cousin and felt like sharing this story with you. You will cry and rejoice as you read.

CHURCH HID IN THE WEEDS

Just two little boys walking down a dusty lane. They came upon this old white house with broken window panes. The paint was faded, the shine was gone; the grass had grown so high.Still they made their little feet go see what was inside. They opened up the squeaky door and then it came to light. This must have been an old church

A Bible laid upon it though the pages weren't too good. An offering plate and song books too were lying on the floor.They must have left this old church fast the day they closed these doors. And over in the corner a piano was still there. It must have played a pretty tune but I guess nobody cared. So little Bill looked up at Tommy and Tommy looked at Bill. Why don't we clean this old church up, and get these old pews filled? They took a rag and wiped the dust to try and make things shine. And then they took the offering plate and put in it their last dime. They took a broom and swept the floor and picked up broken glass. They got it all so nice and neat and then they mowed the grass. They lifted up the old church sign and stood it by a tree right down by that old dirt road where everyone could see.

They ran back home, to find Daddy gone but their Momma was inside. Just to find her hurt again where Daddy had made her cry. 'Don't cry Momma, wipe those tears,'Little Bill and Tommy smiled 'Cause we have a big surprise for you just down the road a mile.' Hand in hand they tugged at her until they made her run. 'What is it Bill, Oh Tommy, just what have you two kids done?' And then they came upon the house once hidden by the weeds and there it stood a country church just like it used to be. 'But what is it, Mother? What's with your tears? We thought this would bring you joy.' 'Yes, but hush kids now and listen close my two sweet precious boys.' They both got quiet and stood real still for the words they heard so true was Daddy praying in the church with his head bowed on the pew. 'Forgive me Lord! Forgive me Lord! Though I'm not worthy of Your love shine down on this sinner man sweet Salvation from above.''For I've been out in the world, You know living my life all wrong until I came upon this church; the place where I belong.''I never noticed it before all those times I passed it up. I guess I wasn't looking, Lord or maybe I was drunk.' 'Bless oh Lord, yes, bless oh Lord the one who made me see this little church that used to hide behind all those tall weeds.' And then he raised his head and stood with his hands high in the air to find two dirty, tear-faced boys with Momma standing there. They ran up to him, hugged him tight as their tears fell on the floor. 'Don't worry kids, I'm not the Dad, the one you've known before.' Things are different for us now so keep on those pretty smiles and let's go gather people in to walk down these church aisles.' Then Bill looked up at Tommy and Tommy looked at Bill 'Come on brother, let's get to work to get these old pews filled.' 'For we need no special blessing for cleaning up this church 'cause, God gave us back our Daddy and that's more than gold is worth.'

Sunday morning, pews all filled and smiles on every face. Especially two little country boys, the ones who found this place. Though it was hid back in the weeds and so far out of sight Nothing's ever hard to find if you're walking toward God's light.
1 John 1:7 we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.'

DID YOU KNOW?

Peel a banana from the bottom and you won't have to pick the little "stringy things" off of it. That's how the primates do it. Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster.
Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil, it will stay fresh much longer and not mold!
Peppers with 3 bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating. Peppers with 4 bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.

Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef. It will help pull the grease away from the meat while cooking.

To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream in and then beat them up.

For a cool brownie treat, make brownies as directed. Melt Andes mints in double broiler and pour over warm brownies. Let set for a wonderful minty frosting.

Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a light taste of garlic and at the end of the recipe if your want a stronger taste of garlic.

Leftover snickers bars from Halloween make a delicious dessert. Simply chop them up with the food chopper. Peel, core and slice a few apples. Place them in a baking dish and sprinkle the chopped candy bars over the apples. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes!!! Serve alone or with vanilla ice cream. Yummm!

Reheat Pizza
Heat up leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove, set heat to med-low and heat till warm. This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza. I saw this on the cooking channel and it really works.

Easy Deviled Eggs
Put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag. Seal, mash till they are all broken up. Add remainder of ingredients, reseal, keep mashing it up mixing thoroughly, and cut the tip of the baggy, squeeze mixture into egg. Just throw bag away when done easy clean up.

Expanding Frosting
When you buy a container of cake=2 0frosting from the store, whip it with your mixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size. You get to frost more cake/cupcakes with the same amount. You also eat less sugar and calories per serving.

Reheating refrigerated bread
To warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that were refrigerated, place them in a microwave with a cup of water. The increased moisture will keep the food moist and help it reheat faster.

Broken Glass
Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass you can't see easily.

No More Mosquitoes
Place a dryer sheet in your pocket. It will keep the mosquitoes away.

Squirrel Away!
To keep squirrels from eating your plants, sprinkle your plants with cayenne pepper. The cayenne pepper doesn't hurt the plant and the squirrels won't come near it.
0A

Flexible vacuum
To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge add an empty paper towel roll or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.

Reducing Static Cling
Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you will not have a clingy skirt or dress. Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and ... ta da! ... static is gone.

Measuring Cups
Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient, such as pean ut butter, and watch how easily it comes right out.
Foggy Windshield?
Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car. When the window s fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than a cloth!

Reopening envelope
If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Viola! It unseals easily.

Conditioner
Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.
Good bye Fruit Flies
To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2" with Apple Cider Vinegar and 2 drops of dish washing liquid; mix well. You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!

Get Rid of Ants
Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it "home," can't digest it so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed!

INFO ABOUT CLOTHES DRYERS
The heating unit went out on my dryer! The gentleman that fixes things around the house for us told us that he wanted to show us something and he went over to the dryer and pulled out the lint filter. It was clean. (I always clean the lint from the filter after every load clothes.) He told us that he wanted to show us something; he took the filter over to the sink and ran hot water over it. The lint filter is made of a mesh material ... I'm sure you know what your dryer's lint filter looks like. Well ... the=2 0hot water just sat on top of the mesh! It didn't go through it at all! He told us that dryer sheets cause a film over that mesh that's what burns out the heating unit. You can't SEE the film, but it's there. It's what is in the dryer sheets to make your clothes soft and static free ... that nice fragrance too. You know how they can feel waxy when you take them out of the box. well this stuff builds up on your clothes and on your lint screen. This is also what causes dryer units to potentially burn your house down with it! He said the best way to keep your dryer working for a very long time (and to keep your electric bill lower) is to take that filter out and wash it with hot soapy water and an old toothbrush (or other brush) at l east e very six months. He said that makes the life of the dryer at least twice as long! How about that!?! Learn something new everyday! I certainly didn't know dryer sheets would do that. So, I thought I'd share!
Note: I went to my dryer and tested my screen by running water on it. The water ran through a little bit but mostly collected all the water in the mesh screen. I washed it with warm soapy water and a nylon brush and I had it done in 30 seconds. Then when I rinsed it ... the water ran right thru the screen! There wasn't any puddling at all! That repairman knew what he was talking about!

I hope you learned some new ideas and will use some of them. I received this from a friend of my and want to share it with you.

Prayer

This young man is 16 years old and because of family troubles stole something from His High School. The Judge had an ancle braclet put on Him and He has His next court day September 18th.

Help James to understand that Your laws are for their benefit and that the confession and repentance You require must become a way of life. Give them the desire to live in truth before You, and may they say as David did, "Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation" (Psalm 51:2,10-12)

Bible Study

This Bible Study began in April and I am so glad that a person can begin any time. You will see the I AM button on my side bar. Feel free to check it out and enjoy a time of study at your leisure.

1. Are there any circumstances or relationships in your life where you can see God has intentionally placed you? What do you perceive may be at stake if you do or do not speak out for Him? The latest circumstance is now I am working with Middle School Students in a Wednesday Family Night at our Church. These young people have so many things thrown at them every day and I want to be able to give them ideas on how to react to them so they can say no or maybe to say yes. What I perceive in this circumstance is the life of a child. A child that is loved by our Lord Jesus Christ. I have to speak out for them because their spiritually life is at stake.


2. Can you honestly describe yourself as a woman with a 'yes' in her spirit? If not, what keeps you from this? At this time in my life I can say yes. That is to say, I have not always been a woman who could say yes. I believe with my growth spiritually I can and will be a woman who will do what is asked of me.


3. Do you recognize any circumstances in your life which could be described as an 'unrecurring event'? Have you ever said 'no' to one and watched God use someone else instead? Yes there was a circumstance when a Sunday School teacher taught my girls to pray as small children. In my mind I thought they were too young to learn and I said no.


4. Are you in an emotionally and spiritually healthy place? If yes, how are you using this freedom to minister to others? If no, what do you feel is holding you in your Egypt? Right at this moment I am at an emotionally and spiritually healthy place. With this freedom I can minister to the young people placed in my life. In the class room I am able to answer questions in an honest way to lead them in a positive way. Praying for them has become a joy as I see some answers to those prays.

As He Is

This from a Sunday bulletin of September 7, 2008 and written by Leticia Skelton
You are not your own; you were bought at a price. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV)

AS HE IS

In a day and time when shopping is almost akin to therapy, we will usually find the clearance aisles loaded with products and people. There we can also see the "As Is" items--something is wrong with them, so we get them at bargain prices, take them home and fix them up. Imagine how God has taken us "As Is" full of flaws and imperfections. He has purchased us far above a bargain price, for it cost Him His only begotten Son. How immense is God's love for us that He would choose us for His own, cleanse us through and through, and transform us from "As Is" to "As He Is' So if we ever feel like anything less, we can call to mind what God has fixed us up to be in Christ Jesus--a pearl of great price--for now we are the children of God.

A Pray

I received this from a cousin and felt that others would understand this pray.


WRITTEN BY A 15 yr. Old SCHOOL KID IN
ARIZONA:

New Pledge of Allegiance (TOTALLY AWESOME)!

Since the Pledge of
Allegiance
And The Lord's Prayer
Are not allowed in most Public schools
anymore
Because the word 'God' is mentioned . . .
A kid in Arizona
wrote the attached

NEW School prayer:

Now I sit me down in school
Where praying is
against the rule
For this great nation under God
Finds mention of Him
very odd
If Scripture now the class recites,
It violates the Bill of
Rights.
And anytime my head I bow
Becomes a Federal matter now.

Our hair can be
purple, orange or green,
That's no offense; it's a freedom scene. The law
is specific,
the law is precise. Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.

For praying in a public hall
Might offend someone with no
faith at all.
In silence alone we must meditate,
God's name is
prohibited by the state.

We're allowed
to cuss and dress like freaks,
And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks . .

They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible.
To quote the Good Book
makes me liable.
We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen,
And the 'unwed
daddy,' our Senior King.
It's 'inappropriate' to teach right from
wrong,
We're taught that such 'judgment s' do not belong.
We can get our
condoms and birth controls,
Study witchcraft, vampires and totem
poles.
But the Ten Commandments are not allowed,
No word of God must
reach this crowd.

It's scary here
I must confess,
When chaos reigns the school's a mess.
So, Lord, this
silent plea I make:
Should I be shot;
My soul please take!
Amen

What A Short Year

I can not believe it. My first year in the Blog World. This will make my 230th post. Did not know I was so wordy or that I would meet so many good Christian friends. These friends have given me advise when I needed to improve my template, how to get pictures where I wanted them, or being invited to visit to their blogs. These friends come from across this wonderful United States. Some are farmers wives, others have different kinds of jobs. Some give encouragement through their words of devotions. Others give me an incite of the area they live in and even give a weather report. Even my two daughters have a blog, even though, they have been very busy with their lives and jobs that they have not had the time to update on their blogs. Thank you for all the comments made. Even if we never meet in person, we will meet in Heaven with a grand reunion. My pray is that each of you will continue with great things happening in your lives and your families lives. Thank You for this past year of learning something new and giving me space to bare my heart to individuals who will give me the benefit of being me.

Hello All

Not much is going on with the weather being so warm and with no rain. Farmers in our part of Indiana are worried that the yield of corn and beans are dropping each day we do not get rain to feel out the kernels of corn and bean seeds.

Hubby and I took some time off and visited a large dairy farm. This farm is owned by a Dutch family and they milk 22 hours a day, with 2 hours of clean up time. With the milk they make cheese and ice cream. Also, they give tours of the farm and have a place to sell the cheese and ice cream. We each had ice cream cones. The dairy farm is named Fair Oaks Dairy and Visitor Center.

Hello All

Today I am getting over the fact that the Summer Olympics are over for four years. I love watching the different sports and learning about ones I have not seen before.

One good thing about being a farmers wife is the free meals I get to go to with my Hubby. Today it was a Seed Corn day and we were fed pork chops, chicken, broasted potatoes, cole slaw, and ice cream bars. Did I tell you it was all we could eat and even brought supper home.

A Yellow Shirt

So sorry that I have not been keeping up with my blog friends. Life seemed to get busy with hot weather, vacations, having trouble with our car and Explorer, and working with sweet corn and peaches. Schools in our area have started back to school and I am waiting for a call to start subbing again.

I received the following from a cousin of mine and realized that my daughter and I will be passing an Easter dress of mine back and forth. So enjoy.

THE YELLOW SHIRT

The yellow shirt had long sleeves, four extra-large pockets trimmed in black thread and snaps up the front. It was faded from years of wear, but still in decent shape. I found it in 1963 when I was home from college on Christmas break, rummaging through bags of clothes Mom intended to give away. 'You're not taking that old thing, are you?¢ Mom said when she saw me packing the yellow shirt. 'I wore that when I was pregnant with your brother in 1954!'

It's just the thing to wear over my clothes during art class, Mom. Thanks!' I slipped it into my suitcase before she could object. The yellow shirt became a part of my college wardrobe. I loved it. After graduation, I wore the shirt the day I moved into my new apartment and on Saturday mornings when I cleaned.

The next year, I married. When I became pregnant, I wore the yellow shirt during big-belly days. I missed Mom and the rest of my family, since we were in Colorado and they were in Illinois . But that shirt helped. I smiled, remembering that Mother had worn it when she was pregnant, 15 years earlier.

That Christmas, mindful of the warm feelings the shirt had given me, I patched one elbow, wrapped it in holiday paper and sent it to Mom. When Mom wrote to thank me for her 'real' gifts, she said the yellow shirt was lovely. She never mentioned it again.
The next year, my husband, daughter and I stopped at Mom and Dad's to pick up some furniture. Days later, when we uncrated the kitchen table, I noticed something yellow taped to its bottom. The shirt!

And so the pattern was set....

On our next visit home, I secretly placed the shirt under Mom and Dad's mattress. I don't know how long it took for her to find it, but almost two years passed before I discovered it under the base of our living-room floor lamp. The yellow shirt was just what I needed now while refinishing furniture. The walnut stains added character.

In 1975 my husband and I divorced. With my three children, I prepared to move back to Illinois . As I packed, a deep depression overtook me. I wondered if I could make it on my own. I wondered if I would find a job. I paged through the Bible, looking for comfort. In Ephesians, I read, 'So use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy whenever he attacks, and when it is all over, you will be standing up.'

I tried to picture myself wearing God's armor, but all I saw was the stained yellow shirt. Slowly, it dawned on me. Wasn't my mother's love a piece of God's armor? My courage was renewed.

Unpacking in our new home, I knew I had to get the shirt back to Mother. The next time I visited her, I tucked it in her bottom dresser drawer.

Meanwhile, I found a good job at a radio station. A year later I discovered the yellow shirt hidden in a rag bag in my cleaning closet. Something new had been added. Embroidered in bright green across the breast pocket were the words 'I BELONG TO PAT.'

Not to be outdone, I got out my own embroidery materials and added an apostrophe and seven more letters. Now the shirt proudly proclaimed, 'I BELONG TO PAT'S MOTHER.' But I didn't stop there. I zig-zagged all the frayed seams, then had a friend mail the shirt in a fancy box to Mom from Arlington , VA. We enclosed an official looking letter from 'The Institute for the Destitute,' announcing that she was the recipient of an award for good deeds. I would have given anything to see Mom's face when she opened the box.. But, of course, she never mentioned it.

Two years later, in 1978, I remarried. The day of our wedding, Harold and I put our car in a friend's garage to avoid practical jokers. After the wedding, while my husband drove us to our honeymoon suite, I reached for a pillow in the car to rest my head. It felt lumpy. I unzipped the case and found, wrapped in wedding paper, the yellow shirt. Inside a pocket was a note: 'Read John 14:27-29. I love you both, Mother.'

That night I paged through the Bible in a hotel room and found the verses: 'I am leaving you with a gift: peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid. Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really love me, you will be very happy for me, for now I can go to the Father, who is greater than I am. I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do, you will believe in me.'

The shirt was Mother's final gift. She had known for three months that she had terminal Lou Gehrig's disease. Mother died the following year at age 57.

I was tempted to send the yellow shirt with her to her grave. But I'm glad I didn't, because it is a vivid reminder of the love-filled game she and I played for 16 years. &n bsp;Besides, my older daughter is in college now, majoring in art. And every art student needs a baggy yellow shirt with big pockets.

A Friday This Or That

Sorry I have not been around. The summer has been busy and hot and I have been sick for a few weeks. The Dr. gave me some wonderful medicines and I am on the mend.

In Indiana our 4-H county fairs are going on. My Hubby last night bought a dozen eggs for $300. Now I hope I can get them cooked and eaten before they spoil. You see I am not much for eating eggs in the summer time. Today my Hubby will be putting $100 down on a gallon of milk. He will become a part of a group who will bid up to $5000 for a gallon of milk.

I pray all of you are having a great summer and have a great time with life

Have A Great Holiday

Our house would like to wish all of you a grand 4th of July. We will be in Michigan visiting with our daughters and taking 2 young people to camp in Michigan.
We are free, free indeed. I am glad to be an American

ARM

I would like to tell you about a Ministry our Church helps in many ways. It is American Rehabilitation Ministries founded by Joe and Linda Graman. They have gone into the prisons to teach and tell inmates about Jesus and His Love for them. The two have trained volunteers throughout the United States to go into the prisons to hold Bible Studies and hold services.

ARM works with American Bible Society as National Jail and Prison Distribution Center to hand out Bibles to any inmates who wishes one and their families. They also work with DaySpring Greeting Cards, in sending five million cards to American prisons each year. "91% of U.S. prisoners serve their entire sentence and never go to chapel-so ARM provides beautiful DaySpring greeting cards as "bait" for the chaplains. This results in the prisoners having to go to chapel to get their cards, and when they do the Chaplain and prison volunteers take opportunity to witness to them."

In addition to working with the two companies, ARM produces a collapsible portable baptistery made of aluminum tubing with a vinyl tub, it opens up like a lawn chair and can be hand-carried since it only weights 30 lbs. In Indiana there are 46 in operation.

The organization works in city prisons, county prisons, state prisons, and Federal prisons through out the United States. It was stated in the presentation that there are 1 out of 131 individuals in American jails and that computes to 2.25 million nation wide. Also, there are 1 out of 32 American adults in jail or on parole.

Many notorious prisoners were mentioned and one in particular was Blake Williams a bank robber. He was in a Federal Prison in El Reno OK. After his conversion He started witnessing and in the process those witnessed to the point that 300 inmates were converted and baptized a year for many years. A few years ago He died in prison of cancer but His example is going on.

If you would like to learn more about the organization you may check them out at www. arm.org or you can write to
ARM Prison Outreach International
P.O. Box 1490
Joplin, MO 64802
Phone 417-781-9100

Wash Day

Wash Day...........

Now, this is really a cute one. . . .and

I've not seen it before, either!! That is
getting to be a rarity!!!

Monday WashDay
Lord, help me wash away all my selfishness and
vanity, so I may serve you with perfect humility
through the week ahead.

Tuesday Ironing Day
Dear Lord, help me iron out all the wrinkles
of prejudice I have collected through the years
so that I may see the beauty in others.

Wednesday Mending Day
O God, help me mend my ways so I will not
set a bad example for others.

Thursday Cleaning Day
Lord Jesus, help me to dust out all the many faults
I have been hiding in the secret corners of my heart.

Friday Shopping Day
O God, give me the grace to shop wisely so I may purchase eternal happiness for myself and all others
In need of love.

Saturday Cooking Day
Help me, my Savior, to brew a big kettle of brotherly
love and serve it with clean, sweet bread of human kindness.

Sunday The Lord's Day
O God, I have prepared my house for you. Please
come into my heart so I may spend the day and the
rest of my life in your presence.

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful today that it is the longest day of the year. The sun is shining and no rain so far. Also, today I am thankful for 20-somethings who love the Lord and are working their hearts out to create a coffee house on the Purdue University campus. I see them hanging drywall, taping, and mudding. I see hands at work sanding down chairs to be stained. I see paint on faces and clothes. I see men who are taking time out of their lives to put brick on the wall, men who are putting in electrical wiring, men who are teaching younger men to cut lumber, nail that lumber on the wall, and just being there to help in any way needed. This coffee house is named GREY HOUSE COFFEE & SUPPLY and is to open July 7, 2008.

Fathers Day

A Daddy's Shoes

A daddy's job is to provide, to be a friend, counselor and guide. He dries the tears on little cheeks and mends broken toys and oils their squeaks. he's a trustworthy guide when the wrong road has been taken. He comforts the heart that feels like it's breaking. A daddy is more than just a mere man--a daddy fills shoes that no one else can. (Written by Fran Liles)
"He is like a Father to us, tender and sympathetic to those who reverence him " Psalms 103:13 (TLB)

This was on our Church bulletin and as I was reading it I thought of a few times Hubby was the best Dad of the day. One time when our girls were little and it was cold outside I came upon them playing in my perfume and powders making mud pies. My voice got very loud with anger and Hubby steeped in to take care of the punishment. Anotehr time was when Dad listened to our oldest daughter who was a senior in High School. Hubby was resting from an accident and our daughter came to Him and told Him she would not be going to college because the money would be used to pay hospital bills. Dad said to Her that if God and Purdue wanted Her to be there the money would be there and for Her not to worry about it any more. There have been many times during thoses years Dad did and said what needed to be said to His daughters and showed them how much He loved them.

I pray all Dad's had a great day

Rambling of an Old Lady

Cancel your credit card.......... (hilarious!)

Now some people are really stupid!!!!
Be sure and cancel your credit cards before you die. This is so priceless, and so, so easy to see happening, customer service being what it is today.

A lady died this past January, and Citibank billed her for February and March for their annual service charges on her credit card, an d added late fees and interest on the monthly charge. The balance had been $0.00, now somewhere around $60.00. A family member placed a call to Citibank nk. Here is the exchange:

Family Member: "I am calling to tell you she died in
January."

Citibank: "The account was never closed and the late fees and charges still apply."

Family Member: "Maybe, you should turn it over to collections."

Citibank: "Since it is two months past due, it already has been."

Family Member: So, what will they do when they find out she is dead?"

Citibank: "Either report her account to frauds division or report her to the credit bureau, maybe both!"

Family Member: "Do you think God will be mad at her?"(I really liked this part!!!!)

Citibank: "Excuse me?"

Family Member: "Did you just get what I was telling you - the part about her being dead?"

Citibank: "Sir, you'll have to speak to my supervisor." (Duh!)

Supervisor gets on the phone:

Family Member: "I'm calling to tell you, she died in January."

Citibank: "The account was never closed and late fees and charges still apply." (This must be a phrase taught by the bank!)

Family Member: "You mean you want to collect from her estate?"

Citibank: (Stammer) "Are you her lawyer?"

Family Member: "No, I'm her great nephew w." (Lawyer info given)

Citibank: "Could you fax us a certificate of death?"

Family Member: "Sure." (Fax number is given)

After they get the fax:

Citibank: "Our system just isn't setup for death. I don't know what more I can do to help."

Family Member: "Well, if you figure it out, great! If not, you could just keep billing her. I don't think she will care."

Citibank: "Well, the late fees and charges do still apply."(What is wrong with these people?!?)

Family Member: "Would you like her new billing address?"

Citibank
"That might help."

Family Member: " Odessa Memorial Cemetery , Highway 129, Plot Number 69."

Citibank: "Sir, that's a cemetery!"

Family Member< I>: "What do you do with dead people on your planet???

Lemons and Sugar

I received this article in an e-mail from a friend and want to share it with you.

LEMONS and SUGAR

This should probably be taped to your bathroom mirror
Where one could read it every day.
You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.

1. There are at least two people in this world
That you would die for.

2. At least 15 people in this world
Love you in some way.

3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you
Is because they want to be just like you.

4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone,
Even if they don't like you.

5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you
Before they go to sleep.

6. You mean the world to someone.

7. You are special and unique.

8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.

9. When you make the biggest mistake ever,
Something good comes from it.

10. When you think the world has turned its back on you
Take another look.

11. Always remember the compliments you received.
Forget about the rude remarks.

And always remember....
When life hands you Lemons,
Ask for Sugar and call me over!

Good friends are like stars.
You don't always see them,
But you know they are always there.

'Whenever God Closes One Door He Always Opens Another, Even Though
Sometimes It's Hell in the Hallway'

I would rather have one rose and a kind word
From a friend while I'm here
Than a whole truckload when I'm gone.

Courage For The Moment

My life verse is Philippians 4:13 I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHICH STRENGTHEN ME. This verse was used on our Church bulletin and Linda E Knight states "When our hearts are fixed on Jesus, no mountain seems too difficult, no challenge seems too great, no dream seems to high..because it isn't. When we keep our eyes on Jesus, we find the strength we need to keep going, to keep trying, to make it all the way..hand in hand with Him."

Hubby and I have two friends who in the past two weeks found out they have cancer. Both of them went to the hospital with very bad chest congestion. In the tests that followed cancer was found. For one it is overran cancer. As they were taking fluid off her lungs something came out that caused more tests. The cancer may have gone in to the colen. They will not be able to operate until a later date after they get all the fluid off the lungs. In the mean time they are starting kemo treatments to shrink the tumer on the ovaries. Our other friend has lymphoma cancer and they will start treatment today if He is free of all the fluid on His lungs. He has lost about 40 pounds so far.

The two of them have courage for the moment. Both have great faith in God and what every happens their eyes are on the Lord. That is courage and I pray God rewards each one with the strength to take each day with a smile and a laugh.

Phone Numbers When Needed

I received this from a cousin of mine and felt that this e-mail would help others. So here it is. Please enjoy

Emergency Telephone Numbers
These are more effective than 911
When -
You are sad, phone John 14
You have sinned, phone Psalm 51
You are facing danger, phone Psalm 91
People have failed you, phone Psalm 27
It feels as though God is far from you, phone Psalm 139
Your faith needs stimulation, phone Hebrews 11
You are alone and scared, phone Psalm 23
You are worried, phone Matthew 8:19-34
You are hurt and critical, phone 1 Corinthians 13
You wonder about Christianity, phone 2 Corinthians 5:15-18
You feel like an outcast, phone Romans 8:31-39
You are seeking peace, phone Matthew 11:25-30
It feels as if the world is bigger than God, phone Psalm 90
You need Christ like insurance, phone Romans 8:1-30
You are leaving home for a trip , phone Psalm 121
You are praying for yourself, phone Psalm 87
You require courage for a task, phone Joshua 1
Inflation's and investments are hogging your thoughts, phone Mark 10:17-31
You are depressive, phone Psalm 27
Your bank account is empty, phone Psalm 37
You lose faith in mankind, phone 1 Corinthians 13
It looks like people are unfriendly, phone John 15
You are losing hope, phone Psalm 126
You feel the world is small compared to you, phone Psalm 19
You want to carry fruit, phone John 15
Paul's secret for happiness, phone Colossians 3:12-17
With big opportunity/ discovery, phone Isaiah 55
To get along with other people, phone Romans 12
ALTERNATE NUMBERS
For dealing with fear, call Psalm 47
For security, call Psalm 121:3
For assurance, call Mark 8:35
For reassurance, call Psalm 145:18
ALL THESE NUMBERS MAY BE PHONED DIRECTLY.
NO OPERATOR ASSISTANCE IS NECESSARY.
ALL LINES TO HEAVEN ARE AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY.
FEED YOUR FAITH, AND DOUBT WILL STARVE TO DEATH

God Bless Our Troops

Today we honor our Men and Women who joined the military to defend our country and our freedom. There are family members and friends we remember at this time who participated in wars, conflicts, and in peace times who have passed away. Also, we remember those now serving in the many branches of the military.

Just Love Them

Sorry I have not been on line, been busy teaching. Today I taught an Alternative class. These young people have been in serious trouble and they have been separated from their classmates. They were very well behaved until one young man had to push another young man's buttons. I was able to defuse the issue quickly. I hated to yell at the young man who had been picked on, but He was very upset. The Lord was in what I said to Him in private. I told Him to take deep breaths and to stand strong in not hitting back. Near the end of class I gave a lecture to the whole class on bulling. I told the one who did the pushing of the buttons that I thought it was very uncool. Then I told them about a young man who could not stop the hitting and what the consequences have been. Please pray for the ones you know who have had their buttons pushed that they can stand firm and not strike back.

The Joy of Youth

Today the sun is shining and after reading the mail God came and gave the thoughts concerning youth who have or will graduate from College. Specifically Purdue University and a specific Church on campus by the name of Purdue University Campus House. Their news letter is full of pictures and comments on what happened in the past school year. Here is a comment from the news letter: "There are about 36 weeks in a school year, and if you count up every organized event on our calendar, it's over 500 activities! Every one of them is there to reach out to and support Purdue students in their relationship with God." During the school year they held 4 Church services each and every Sunday, they held a lunch and fellowship of 250 international students, they held a 24 hour retreat in Indianapolis to connect with some new faces, they held a week of prayer, services and brainstorming as body about how to make a difference on campus, they held dozens of service project, toy drive, big brother and sister, and lots of community support, through the women's ministry through retreat, luncheon, and many individual events, and went on mission trips to Mexico, an Arizona reservation, Thailand, Jamaica, and Uganda.

My pray for the graduates is to find a job, to be leaders in the Church they will attend, continue doing what they did while at the Campus House in fellowshiping, service and pray, and being an example of Jesus Christ in their daily lives. These graduates are the future leaders of Churches in the United States and throughout the world. May we give them the encouragement and leadership they need as they grown in their walk with the Lord.

Old Age

Lately I have been feeling old. Then friends starting sending me e-mails on old age and the smiles came back and laughing is back in the house. The picture and the following are two and I hope you get a laugh out of them.

Sitting on the side of the highway waiting to catch speeders, a State Police Officer
sees a car puttering along at 22 MPH. He thinks to himself, 'This driver is just as
dangerous as a speeder!' So he turns on his lights and pulls the driver over.
Approaching the car, he notices that there are five old ladies -- two in the front
seat and three in the back - eyes wide and white as ghosts.
The driver, obviously confused, says to him, 'Officer, I don't understand, I was
doing exactly the speed limit! What seems to be the problem?'
'Ma'am,' the officer replies, 'You weren't speeding, but you should know that
driving slower than the speed limit can also be a danger to other drivers.'
'Slower than the speed limit?' she asked. No sir, I was doing the speed limit
exactly.. Twenty-Two miles an hour!' the old woman says a bit proudly.
The State Police officer, trying to contain a chuckle explains to her that 22
was the route number, not the speed limit.
A bit embarrassed, the woman grinned and thanked the officer for pointing
out her error.
But before I let you go, Ma'am, I have to ask...is everyone in this car ok?
These women seem awfully shaken and they haven't muttered a single peep
this whole time.'
'Oh, they'll be all right in a minute officer. We just got off Route 119.'

Mothers Forever

Mothers Forever; Love is patient, Love is kind, Love never fails I Corinthians 13:8
No matter your age or the stage in your childrens development, once you are a mother, you're a mother forever. God places within each mom the need to nurture her little ones, always guiding, always loving, aways giving and prodding them in the right direction with gentle reminders, "Dress warm," "Eat healthy." And just when you think the nest has emptied, and mothering can take a vacation, the phone rings. A pleading voice begs for advice. The years pass, and instead of motherhood ending, it begins a new role, another title Grandmother. Same loving, same nurturing, same prodding in the right direction--only with a bit more spoiling! At some point it may appear you've change roles completely, as your now grown child mothers you. Not so. Because inside, where it really counts, a mom never charges: she's always guiding, always loving, always giving...
By Rebecca Barlow Jordan

MOTHERS DAY

I pray Mothers Day is spent making memories.

A Thursday of This and That

This is two days after the Indiana Primary and a tight race for President and Governor. A lot of pray will be needed to know who the best candidate will be for the United States and the State of Indiana in the November election.

My Hubby is interested in the election since He is a farmer. The United States Senate and House of Representatives are working on a new Farm Bill. Sounds like the President has declared an extension on the work towards the completion of the bill. Hubby has planted corn and beans and is checking corn fields and the roots are forming so we will be able to row corn next week.

Today I helped 8th graders work on power point presentation and posters for a speech they will be giving on their research papers on individuals who were activists in many different areas of the United States and the World. Our young people are very talented and creative. I am glad I have had the opportunity to assist in their creativity. Some of the people are Abraham Lincoln, Rosa Parks, Eleanor Roosevelt, Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Magic Johnson, and The United Nations.

True American

The state of Indiana votes in their Primary tomorrow and the Democratic Presidential candidates have been in our area off and one for the past 2 weeks. I have not gone to any of the rallies. What is more important in Indiana is the Governor race. Hubby and I will be at the polls early to vote.

As I was viewing some of my files I found this article and can say I am a TRUE AMERICAN and proud of it.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: It never occurred to you to be offended by the phrase, "One nation, under God."

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You've never protested about seeing the 10 Commandments posted in public places.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You still say "Christmas" instead of "Winter Festival."

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You bow your head when someone prays.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You stand and place your hand over your heart when they play the National Anthem.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You treat Viet Nam vets with great respect, and always have.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You've never burned an American flag.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You know what you believe and you aren't afraid to say so, no matter who is listening.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You respect your elders and expect your kids to do the same.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You'd give your last dollar to a friend.

May 1, 2008

Today is the 57th National Day Of Pray and the theme for today is Prayer! America's Strength & Shield. Psalm 28:7 says "The Lord is my strength and shield: My heart trusts in Him and I am helped" Hubby and I attended a Pray breakfast this morning and with a mixed group of individuals prayed for our United States of America and the President of our nation, Mr. George W. Bush. In a pamphlet we received at the time, it encourages us to, also pray for our military, media, business, education, Church, and family. Also in the pamphlet it explained why we should pray and I want to quote from it:
"This year, the American people will elect the officials in the Federal and State Government. Whatever the outcome, we know those assuming positions of leadership will bring their own ideas, priorities, and visions for the future of our great nation.
In the midst of such change, uncertainty abounds; yet, we do not need to fear. God is sovereign and nothing comes as a surprise to Him. Whether we face fluctuating economics, threats from abroad, unrest at home, or other troubling circumstance, our Heavenly Father is not caught unaware. Through pray, we are able to tap into His wisdom. strength, protection, and peace. He stands ready to respond to our needs when we humbly ask for divine intervention in the affairs of men."

My pray is that thousands of people have been to events to pray for our nation and our Government representatives.

Girlie Wisdom

Girlie Wisdom

Women over 50 don't have babies because they would put them down and forget where they left them.

A friend of mine confused her Valium with her birth control pills... she has 14 kids but doesn't really care.

One of life's mysteries is how a 2-pound box of chocolates can make a woman gain 5 lbs.

My mind not only wanders, it sometimes leaves completely.

The best way to forget your troubles is to wear tight shoes.

The nice part about living in a small town is that when you don't know what you are doing, someone else does.

The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight because by then, your body and your fat are really good friends.

Just when I was getting used to yesterday, along came today.

Sometimes I think I understand everything, and then I regain consciousness.

I gave up jogging for my health when my thighs kept rubbing together and setting fire to my pants.

Amazing! You hang something in your closet for a while and it shrinks 2 sizes!

Skinny people irritate me! Especially when they say things like... 'You know sometimes I forget to eat!' ......Now I've forgotten my address, my mother's maiden name and my keys, but I have never forgotten to eat. You have to be a special kind of stupid to forget to eat!

The trouble with some women is that they get all excited about nothing and then they marry him.

I read this article that said the typical symptoms of stress are eating too much, impulse buying, and driving too fast. Are they kidding? That's my idea of a perfect day!

Friendship

A simple friend, when visiting, acts like a guest.
A real friend opens your refrigerator and helps himself (and doesn't feel even the least bit weird shutting your ' coke/Pepsi drawer' with her foot!)

A simple friend has never seen you cry.
A real friend has shoulders soggy from your tears..

A simple friend doesn't know your parents' first names.
A real friend has their phone numbers in their address book.

A simple friend brings a bottle of wine to your party.
A real friend comes early to help you cook and stays late to help you clean.

A simple friend hates it when you call after they've gone to bed.
A real friend asks you why you took so long to call.

A simple friend seeks to talk with you about your problems.
A real friend seeks to help you with your problems.

A simple friend wonders about your romantic history.
A real friend could blackmail you with it.

A simple friend thinks the friendship is over when you have an argument.
A real friend calls you after you had a fight.

A simple friend expects you to always be there for them.
A real friend expects to always be there for you!

We all can think of friends who are just simple friends and we can Praise The Lord for those real friends. I for one is going to work to make my simple friends real friends.

A This Or That Tuesday

First I would like to thank Betty of Betty This or That for this beautiful award.


Then I would like to thank Grandma of Gratitude Journal for these beautiful awards. I would like to pass all three of them to those who visit my blog on a regular basis.

If you have scrolled down my side bar you will have noticed the disappearance of awards I have received in the year of 2007. I realized my side bar was getting cluttered and I decided to begin another blog just for awards and pictures I have received from friends. You may visit this one any time you wish. I will not be posting as ofter as on this one. You will find the blog when you view my complete profile.

Read It Again

Our Sunday Bulletin was a picture of a Grandmother and a grandson reading a book. Here is the quote from the back cover.

READ IT AGAIN
"Can we read this one again, Gram?" my grandson asked as he climbed onto my lap clutching his favorite book. THE POKY LITTLE PUPPY We had already read it several times. After about the fifth, I could pause midsentence, and he would complete it. When I turned to the last page Tyler declared, "No desserts unless puppies never dig holes again!" That's how I like to read the Bible. I can't grasp a portion of Scripture after reading it once. Sometimes I read the same verses every day for a month. When I'm not sure what to read. I turn to a favorite passage and delight in its promises again. Before I know it, I can pause midverse and complete it from memory. I like to imagine my heavenly Father smiling as I climb onto His lap, clutching my Bible, and Ask, "Can we read this one gain, Dad?"
By Kathy Hardee

A Sun Shining Sunday

I am sitting here at my computer smelling spring in the house as it penetrates through windows being open. Right now it is 73 and the sun is still shining. My Hubby is outside cleaning an area to add to my back yard. Sorry to say I am a person who really does not like to clean up outside. Yes, I will work in my flower bed, but that is all.

Thank you for the comments on my post about a job interview. I was the first person to be interviewed and I do not know how many more will be interviewed. So while I am waiting for an answer I am subbing. Wednesday I saw 13 year old boys act like 8 year olds. The weather has been fanatic and I decided to taken my afternoon classes outside after they got their work done. I told them they had to be still while working. Well, it did not take long for the boys to make sure everyone was still so they could go out. All of them had a wonderful time and even the grass stain on jeans did not mean anything. On Friday I subbed again and had some of those boys come up to me and thank me for letting them go outside and their Mothers were not upset about washing grass stained jeans.

Around here on Saturday, it rained most of the day. That meant nothing to me as I went to an all day preaching. The theme of the eight sermons was BEING READY FOR THE COMING OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST AND HOW WE WILL KNOW HIM WHEN HE COMES. Here are some of the topics preached:
Christ Is The Amen
Jesus Is The King
Fullfiller Of The Law And Prophets
The Last Adam
The Way
Rider On The White Horse
Root Of David
The Bridegroom
I took pages and pages of notes. You will read about some of the sermons at a later date.

Thanks For Prays

Good day to all. Thank you all for the prays that went up for me concerning the interview I had this morning. Have you been in a situation where you knew the Lord was sitting by your side? That is what happened this morning. The words that came out of my mouth were from God. This is a position working for a Christian organization that works with troubled children. I do not know how many they are interviewing, but I was the very first one. This is one time my age meant nothing. What did was all the years of experiences I have experienced. I was feeling the prays from the time I parked the car to the end of the interviews. Thanks so much.

I have prayed God will not mine.

love and Hugs,
Joyce

Tuesday In Other Words

Today's post is my 200th post. Blogging began on September 1, 2007. The blog was began as a journal that no one would see. Well, Creation In Progress, has progressed to bring humor, encouragement, pray, and just rambling at times. Something I never imagined was making the blog friends I have made. I was wondering what kind of post I would do for a momentous occasion and I saw the quote for Tuesday In Other Words and because of a Ladies Bible Study this morning and a telephone call this afternoon I am going to make comments of the quote.

One of the most wonderful things about knowing God is that there's always so much more to know, so much more to discover. Just when we least expect it, He intrudes into our neat and tidy notions about who He is and how He works.
~ Joni Eareckson Tadaby ~

First the Ladies Bible Study, studied a lesson on Miriam, Mose's sister. For most of us a verse in Exodus 15:21-22 shot out with information we all had skimmed over time and time again. The fact was Miriam was a prophetess. We all knew she was there to make sure Moses was raised for His formative years by His Mother but, the fact She grew up to be a leader for Her people was a discovery. It is so wonderful to know God is going to show us, teach us, and allow us to discover more and more from the Bible.

As some of you know, I am waiting for an answer to a pray I prayed 14 years ago for change to happen in my life. Through these years I have learning how He has intruded in my neat and tidy life to show me how He words work. Well this afternoon I received a telephone call from an organization I visited last fall about a job and left a cover letter and resume. I figured before I left the parking lot what I had left went into the trash. Well, the neat and tidy notion was so wrong. This organization is now looking for an Administrative Assistant and the HR person pulled out my resume and I have an interview April 17, 2008 at 9:00 AM. How God works is fantastic. I am going into the interview with God by my side. I pray that the interviewer sees something that she sees if this is the answer to the pray. If not, I will continue job looking.

May we continue to discover new and wondrous things in our Bible reading and our study of the word.

The Whisnants

Hubby and I enjoy going to Southern Gospel concerts and Saturday night we were previous to see and listen to The Whisnants from South Carolina. They have been on the Southern Gospel charts for a few years and have a #1 at this time.

During the two years I was ill I was able to see them three times in our area. One of the songs that speak to my heart is "Even In The Valley" Their web site is www. thewhisnats.com You can go to their site and listen to any and all of their music. Here are the lyrics to the song.

“EVEN IN THE VALLEY”

High upon this mountain – the sun is shining bright
My heart is filled with gladness here above the cares of life
But I’ve just come through the valley of trouble, fear and pain
It was there I came to know my God enough to stand and say

CHORUS:
Even in the valley – God is good
Even in the valley – He is faithful and true
He carries his children through - like He said he would
Even in the valley – God is good

The road of life has lead you to a valley of defeat
You wonder if the father has heard your desperate plea
But there is hope in the rugged place where tears of sorrow dwell
Can’t you hear Him gently whispering “I am hear and all is well”

Rebecca Peck & Amy Marie Unthank / Thomas Peck Music / BMI
Admin. By Thomas Peck Music

The chorus is sung a number of times and each time I hear the words my heart and body heals and joy enters. I know God is Good Even in the valley. Durning the concert they told us about a valley they were going through. Someone set their recording studio on fire and the whole building burnt to the ground.