and by faith the blog

debraparker.wordpress.com

2007-12-23T13:56:00.000-06:00

If you are still receiving this on your google reader or bloglines please update to the new site...

http://debraparker.wordpress.com

birth story at new blog

2007-09-21T23:03:00.000-06:00

Go and read my birth story at the new blog.

www.debrapaker.wordpress.com

Don't forget to update bloglines and links.

See ya there.

Debra has left the building

2007-09-19T15:06:00.000-06:00

Come and see my new home here.

Be sure to update your links, bloglines or google reader.

btw, i did not choose a name...so I just went with debraparker.

I already said I married up in the clever department.

Ernest has left the building.

2007-09-18T21:54:00.001-06:00

The hubs has moved it on up to his own blog. It is called in all ernestness. I married up in the clever department. (in all departments...)

Now for the real question at hand. Should I change the name of my blog? Should I change the header? Question after question...that's me.

Life. {late night thinking}

2007-09-15T10:58:00.000-06:00

To set the scene:

A family of four stands outside Minute Maid Park awaiting the Houston Astros to come out for autographs. It is late, well past the bedtime of the two youngest members of this crazy family. The boy's face lights up when each player drives past in their car.

sign my baseball, please, Mr.???

Most do not stop. I am certain they want to be home to relax and see their family. The boy is thankful for those that do stop to make this a worthwhile experience.

The Mom.

She does not really care about autographs or if she gets to see the player...so she is just taking in the sights. This is what she is left to ponder.

life.

Everyone that works for the Astros or Minute Maid Park come out of the same garage. Some are the nice people that work the food booth, or the ushers that help patrons to their seat, and then some are the famed players. There were many that came out wearing their team t-shirt. They sported red t-shirts to identify others of their specific job, whatever it was. Another team wore white shirts. Most of these players (if you will) walked out of the garage, carrying their clear purses/bags, and headed across the street to sit and wait on the bus. Not one of us asked for their autograph. Seriously, not even a mere hello was given. Of course, it did not phase them a bit.

Every 15 minutes or so the crowd would get the honor to see a player drive through. He would wave and the crowd would show their adoration. As stated earlier, they seemed relieved for time to escape to the safe haven of home. I would be too. Most of them had regular nice cars. Some of them were lavish. From a spectator point of view their life could seem pretty perfect.

My thought is

what makes life so different, you know for different poeple...

To me, all these people, were in fact, just people. They all work at the same place. They all come out of the same garage. Yet, they come out to completely different worlds.

Why is it that the people who do the dirty work get paid the least? Why is it that athletes get paid millions to play a sport that most of them love?

I am still left a little struck. The why is getting to me. So there you have it, something to think on today...why.

This does not change our love for the Astros or for the Workers of the Astros. It was just a little late night thinking about life.

this is what you can do...

2007-09-14T07:27:00.000-06:00

Are you in need of a good magazine?

You can get one here.

Jamie is raising money to bring Dowensky home. She and her hubs, Aaron, are in the fundraising mode of their adoption process. If you can help, please do. If you are not into magazines then save your money and purchase a T-shirt. The design will be up in a couple of weeks.

Singing the Blues

2007-09-12T21:49:00.000-06:00

I can't live if living is without you. I can't live, I can't live anymore...

(Do you remember that song?)

I am singing the blues tonight. I am deep blue about my lack of DVR. I have missed so many shows that I am used to watching when boredom hits. I found out that I missed Oprah's interview with Lisa Beamer and Mary Winkler. I love interviews. I am a stalker at heart. I caught just a moment of the view today only to find out they have two new co-hosts. Just when did that happen?

I am also singing the blues at the lack of rewind skills with a DVR. I am truly spoiled and evidently am pretty addicted to television. My brain is going through a stage of detox from the world that lives in the small box. I guess that could be a good thing.

One side note: While I was blogging Ernest was reading (what a man!). While reading he came upon a picture stuck in the book of Chibwede. Chibwede is our Compassion child. So here I was talking about my lack of DVR and how sad I am when Chibwede graces my heart. I am truly in want of nothing. It is true, I am a little spoiled.

Thank you, Chibwede, for bringing my mind into focus.

God, you are so good, with or without a DVR.

worth the drive? YES.

2007-09-11T22:15:00.000-06:00

Why is merging so hard for me?

I drove by myself to biblestudy tonight. You might be thinking big whoop-di-doo. Well it is a big deal here in these parts. Oh, let's just be honest, it is a big deal to me. I grew up in the outskirts of Houston and have driven through the city once or twice. I have always been a little on the scared side.

I was not about to let fear stop me. No sir.

I made it there and back alive. I may have made some people just a little mad on the way? No one honked at me. I think that is a good sign. Every time I had to merge I cringed with fear. Where did this come from? I don't know but I am ready for it to go away. We are going to drive it away.

The study was great. When it comes out we will have to chat all about it. I love the book of Esther so I am excited about studying it to the core.

I sat by two other ladies who were there alone. Their names were Stacy and Betty. I think they thought I was a little weird. I kept trying to talk to them because those poor things looked scared to death. It was both of their first time to Bible study. To say that they were taken was an understatement. I think they will be back. Who could resist? I mean really.

The lady on the other side must have just got a pedicure. I couldn't help but notice her bright red toes so nicely painted. Not to mention her red sandals. She was a sweet older lady who is not scared to hold the hand of a complete stranger. Have I ever stated how that is a fear of mine? Kidding. Well, sort of.

It was a great night for sure.

Beth, just in case you ever read this (or your daughter decides to tell you about this wacko driver who went to biblestudy), you hit it out of the park tonight. God in you is some greatness. Thank you for your faithfulness.

Going alone was a bit of difference for me. I am use to being in the mix with lots of sweet faces to share with. Tonight God was my companion. He was with me on all the crazy roads and he was there when my heart opened tenderly before him. What a prince he is. My life may be full of change right now but he is ever constant. I praise you, my sweet Jesus.

love.

under contract

2007-09-10T21:24:00.000-06:00

Our house is officially under contract! We were called today with, catch this, two offers. Can you feel me smiling?

The speaking went great. I was the youngest one in the ladies meeting by far. FAR. I think they got a kick out of me, as I did of them.

I have a date with Esther and Beth tomorrow night. I can't wait. This is a definite plus to being in Houston.

my photo blog

2007-09-10T15:17:00.000-06:00

Check this out.

Ripped Jean Monday

2007-09-10T08:19:00.000-06:00

It is ripped jeans Monday.

I hope I see my momma today she will be so un-proud. You just gotta love that.

My mother-in-law doesn't like the days when I wear heels or dresses/skirts without pantyhose. Do I ever wear pantyhose? I must admit sometimes I do. You wouldn't know it. I wear them cut-off sometimes to tighten that need to do sit-ups stomach.

To be fair, she doesn't care if I do it, but she would never be caught dead without hose.

And to be fair, I only know this because I was teasing her about it. One day she tried wearing dress shoes without her hose and got blisters. I felt pretty bad.

Just out of curiosity, how tall are you? Yes, very random, that's me. I am curious to find out how short I really am, you know, in comparison to all of you. Would I be the shortest in the class?

In case you are now wondering...I am 5'1.

edited to say...ummm....I mean 5'2...

iChat, uChat

2007-09-09T18:09:00.000-06:00

Do you like coffee? What about chatting with friends?

Well grab some coffee (or something) and let's chat. I am needing some conversation. Do you ever feel that way?

................

Here is some great news. It is past due but great none the less. Last weekend we went back to Abilene to pack up our personal belongings. It was a good quick trip. Our house is being sub leased to a couple whose roof caved in. They are staying in our home for a few months or until it sells. They are even renting our furniture because all of theirs was ruined. It seems to work out for the both of us. The perfect part of this sits here...The money they are paying for the house came in perfect time for the next months mortgage. We hadn't been worried about the payment until this month. God provided. We have been without an official paycheck for a month and a half yet God has provided all our needs and more.

On other house news...

Our realtor called last week and told us to be expecting an offer on our home. That is super exciting!

.....................

This past friday we were blessed to spend the day at Tranquility Park. If you have not viewed the slideshow just look below at the chasing blog. God met us there. He is faithful and in the moment he renewed our strength. He took us back to the birth of the dream that resides in our heart. It was to travel and speak to teenagers. It seems simple enough but it is forever scary. Somewhere on the way there we decided that we needed a job to secure financing. The perfect plan is to find one that would fulfill our dream as well as money right???

That was our reasoning.

For the moment it does not seem like God is desiring that. We promised that we would pursue this vision and prompting set before us. No matter how scared we are. We still have resumes out there and if God desires for us to take a position he will show us but for now we are going out on our own. Whew. That is hard to type.

I would love to show you the direct way that He reaffirmed this to us. That post would be way too long.

Shortly after walking in the door we received a call about speaking to a men's/woman's banquet. Coincidence? If you remember tomorrow night say a word of prayer for us as we share our love with new faces.

Just for notes sake...We are nothing special, nor do we think we are...we are just Jesus lovers with a dream and a mind to pursue it. I hate the even faintest idea that you would think of us to be showy. It is not my desire. The showiness that we posses is grace, HIS grace. He has bestowed much. I mean much as in HUGE>>>>HUGER>>>if that was a word.

.............

Houston anyone? Is anyone going to biblestudy @HFB on Tuesday Night?

...................

Has anyone seen the Nanny Diaries? Any good?

...............

Reading any good books lately?

Talk Back...I would love to hear from you.

chasing.

2007-09-07T21:38:00.000-06:00

This is Good News

2007-09-06T09:55:00.001-06:00

even if it doesn't sound like it or even feel like it...

The position that we have been holding out for is a no go. The funding did not come in as it was thought to. The President of the College spoke to us on Tuesday and let us know. His heart was heavy, I thought that was sweet. He even mentioned that he had wanted to bring us up sooner but now it is good that he didn't. There would have been no way to pay us.

Yes, my heart was hurt, and well, even crushed. I choose to believe God. I know we have been asking him to shut doors that he doesn't want us to go through. He did just that.

Our hearts have been bonded with the students at this school. God will bring the reason to pass. He knows more than we could ever imagine. We trust.

Please pray for us as we continue this journey. Pray that we would stay close to Him, and be free to hear His will and not ours.

We are looking back to remember the first dreams/visions of this ministry. After looking back we see a lot of decisions that we have made out of pure fear of failure. Clarity...that is what we need.

Just thought I would update. (There may be a sell house update soon)

To Attain More (and more)

2007-08-30T13:23:00.000-06:00

**Edited**(at bottom)
We have had plenty of time to do lots of thinking. Some might argue that we are doing too much thinking. O well.

God is stirring and mixing every emotion we have. I think that is good. Not really easy, but good.

When we sell our home we will have the great privilege to be completely debt free. I cannot even imagine my life without school bills. Our plan is to stay that way. Telling this was not my point of this post, I promise. We are just excited about the opportunity to be free from the bills. It makes us able to pursue any place that God desires to take us. That is what you call an adventure. We have a missions degree and are open to those possibilities. We, of course, don't want to go anywhere God is not sending us. We are just waiting. Today the wait is exciting.

Even if we do not pursue a mission field (maybe Haiti) then we have made a decision to live simply here. I don't think this will be a problem considering that we have always lived off of one salary. Most of our married time we have had one car. To think back we only had 2 the first year of marriage and then in Abilene. While in Missouri we were so close to school it really didn't matter. I am going to be flat out honest...I have always desired stuff. Nice stuff. I always say that I was born to be rich. If God did give me wealth, what would I do with it? This week I read a quote on a blog that said "live simply so others can simply live". That has been going over and over in my mind.

Our desire is to live and give. Dan, from Lift Student Ministries, always says that you have 20,000 days to live what are you going to do with them? Our answer is to give them in whatever way God leads.

**Edited to Add** I worried about this all night...I don't think it is wrong to have or desire nice things. These were thoughts coming out kind of scrambled. I do desire to live simply and the battle about it is raging in my mind. That is what I wanted to share. I hope that I didn't come off as arrogant.We all know that I am a lover of shopping. I just plan to spend wisely.**

The Week In Review

2007-08-29T10:32:00.000-06:00

My mind (as usual) is flooded with more than I can express.

Here are the toppers.

Adoption. Aaron & Jamie are beginning the process for their adoption. Our heart yearns to begin but we are still in the waiting of that too. Our minds have been dreaming on ways that we can start the process. Why is this so heavy if at the moment we have no way of answering. Or is there a way and we are just not seeing it? The feelings are definitely rekindled and burning hot.

Swap. I signed up for an online swap. It is kind of like secret friends but online. I needed a cheery something in the mail so why not??? Last night I had to create a list of my likes and dislikes. It was really hard. Why is that? Amanda maybe I will get you to buy for?

Ministry. Eager to return to work. Also, thinking how can I do ministry right here, right now? Am I wasting time just waiting around? What should I be doing?

God. Most of all my mind is centered on staying close. It has been so hard. At many moments I feel forgotten. My heart is sad and then I run to his word to remind the weepy heart of God's truth.

I heard a new song this week, The More I seek You. It may not be new to you but it is to me. Where have I been? I love this song. It speaks to every part of my desire. Listen and tell me what you think. I am a sap for love songs.

What else? What else?

The kids are loving school. That is great news. Here they are on the first day.

And last but not least...

I want to thank everyone that has commented, e-mailed, or myspaced me for encouragement. I have read them all and am truly grateful. I hope to getting around to responding personally. It has just been craziness around here.

Goodness on Saturday

2007-08-26T10:51:00.000-06:00

We made the trek down to Galveston and spent the day at East Beach. I love the beach...any beach. There is just something about the sound that is so relaxing. The kids played and we all rode the waves. The best part of the beach experience was opening my bible and talking to God in the midst of all the sights and sounds of my favorite kind of place.
I loved being away with the family. The four of us sat and talked for hours. It has been a while since we have done that. As I am typing this my arms are feeling the pain of boogy boarding far too long yesterday.

We left the beach a little early because we wanted to visit a new church tonight. The church was Fellowship of the Woodlands. We went to their 7:30 emerge service. I really liked it...we are going to go back (if we are still here). Here is a picture of a water fountain in thier plaza.

The kids start school tomorrow. We are all a little bit on edge about it. I am sure that it will be fine. We will have to get there early to register them and take them to class. First days are always fun.

For updates sake...we have been doing a lot of thinking...

We are open to God's move. Whatever and however he moves....

We had some hoped for plans (they are still there) but are willing and open for anything.

Maybe that was one of the purposes for bringing us here.

He only knows our future...

I've got sunshine...

2007-08-23T19:59:00.000-06:00

I just thought I would share that today was a good day. You are all so sweet to share verses with me. They are treasured.

My God is good. He is good to me. (and you)

On a funny note my 9 year old has now taken up knitting. I must say she is pretty good. It is so cute to see her walking around with her yarn and needle. She brings me joy.

Choice

2007-08-22T19:33:00.000-06:00

I had one thing in mind when I sat down to type. As for now that one thing is now something different.

Life.

To the core of myself I am struggling. Struggling to pursue faith. Struggling to keep on believing. Right now, I am even wondering if I am going to post this.

Yesterday we packed all our clothes (Insert frustration here due to boychild longing for a glass of chocolate milk...okay I am back) and importants and drove ourselves to Houston. I cried as we gave the dog away and cried as we drove down the street. It didn't stop, the tears flowed as I was hanging clothes in the closet. At the moment I cannot grasp peace. What is that about? This is suppose to be the adventure of my life. At the present it does not feel much like that. Or maybe it does...just an adventure gone bad. Do I really mean this? I don't know. I cannot trust my emotions right now.

We arrived here early so to register our two in school before meet the teacher night. That is a no go. All their registrars are on training so they will not register until Monday morning. After some good advice today I think we are going to press on and attend meet the teacher anyway. We will just meet them all as well as find the lunch room and bathrooms.

Do you ever desire to just run to the store and purchase a faith injection?

I need to be running to the arms of my father but instead I feel myself pulling away. I hate this feeling. Lord, please change my heart. (and soon...) I need to do my devotional for the day. I have carried it with me all day I just have not done it. Picture me walking around my life carrying my purple duct tape bible and my 90 days with A Heart Like His.

Renew my spirit within me...i beg you...Father.

I know truth...I believe truth...YOU are truth. I am believing You. No matter what my emotions are saying at this moment...I choose YOU.

What verse do you long for when feeling faithless? I need some fighting words...will you help?

Usually when I am feeling really down I throw a praise party. The radio goes up and we dance till we laugh. We praise no matter the feeling present. I cannot do that here at the in-laws so let's praise him in typed word. I guess you could say that we will just dance our fingers away.

This would be a great time for my beloved lurkers to join in.

this.and.that

2007-08-20T12:04:00.000-06:00

I made this using Big Huge Labs. The girl is completely in awe of American Girl stuff. She is saving her pennies for an American Girl doll. Her destination of dreams is NY City for a viewing of the famed American Girl Store. In her world there is God, Family, High School Musical, Limited Too, and American Girl. She loved the cover...what fun.

BTW...We are moving to Houston tomorrow. We are going to get our kids set up in school until we hear further news on the job front. We are waiting on one particular...if that does not pan through then we will go from there. Ernest will sub while there and I am going to delve in and learn all things photography. At least that is the plan for now. I have a writing thing on the back burner (far back) so you can keep that in your prayers.

Reflecting on Vacations Past

2007-08-18T12:37:00.001-06:00

There is not a beach in my close future. Today we would have left four our week at S.Padre. It is kind of sad but very realistic that we do not go. The weather is going to be bad there plus we are still in the saving mode. We only lost out our deposit and the lady was very understanding. Thank you, God.

I know that sounds kind of down. Don't feel sorry for me...oh no! I have been richly blessed. Last summer was the summer of vacation. It was surreal even. So I am going to do a little feasting on what great fun that was. Wanna feast with me?

For starters, we camped at the bank of the Comal river (New Braunsfels). I sleep in a tent for 5 nights with my family. I loved it at it's best and hated it at it's
worst. We floated the river to our hearts content. The family vaca was ended with a weekend with friends in San Antonio. It was peaceful and free of stress.This was at the Riverwalk. I love this picture. Check out the big hair! That is what a week of camping will do to you.

Next, we hosted a misssions trip to Belgium. For celebration we had a day in Paris. I have a hunger to go back. The cobblestone roads alone draw my attention.
Romance in Paris

I can't believe I was there...

the boys

the girls

Flowers from the market in Brugge, Belgium.

Finally, to celebrate our 10 year anniversary we went on a cruise. It was a glorious five days cruising the ocean and ending in Mexican destinations. Talk about dreamy. I was alone with the man that I love...priceless.
Cozumel

Oh..for the love

Look at the darkness! I used spf30.

See what I mean? I have been vacation blessed.

What has been your favorite vaca?

Sunsets and Rainbows

2007-08-16T21:13:00.000-06:00

Psalm 103:1-5
Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-- who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

I praise his name. He gave us beauty tonight. Here is a view from our front porch. We went out to walk away from the norm and spend some time. He is so faithful to meet us where we are. The absolute coolest part happened when we walked out to the road for a closer view, it was almost more than my heart could take, then we turned around to find more. He gave us even more! A full rainbow was placed right over our house. Beauty. I captured just a bit of it before it was gone.

Don't you just love him.

Heritage from a MAN to his BOY.

2007-08-14T19:01:00.000-06:00

I am married to an amazing man who was once a mischievous little boy. It is great truth that he grew in stature but also in craftiness. I stand amazed at the stories he has to tell about the things that he did. Much laughter.

He grew up a pastor's son which meant that he did not miss church. God love him, there were many times he felt the need to entertain. So entertain he did! Once during worship he thought up a jewel of an idea. I can picture his face fill with that smirk smile. While the congregation was standing he placed a straight pin in a very strategic place...right where his mom would be sitting. I had to stop and laugh a bit just for the mere thought. Soon enough the entertainment ensued with the scream and jump of his mother, the pastor's wife. Can we just chuck it up to the holy spirit? She was filled all right. To this day this man takes much pride in sharing this story. Oh what a joy to be his mother. She must have laughed much. If you think this is something we could top it. Oh yes, there is more, like the time his father was preaching on suicide. Let's just say that this ended in a trip to the emergency room during the middle of service.

Prankster, enough said.

This boy is now a father. A father to a young boy. The joy continues! I must say that Colton is crazy at times and then again shy at times. He is either all or nothing. Lately I have been watching this little guy learn the craft of his father. His heritage of pranksterness.

One night I was relaxing up in the loft when I heard what could only be described as shreeks coming from the Carly's room. I could not get there fast enough. Her voice was in sheer pain as she cried. I got in there and saw her holding and bunch of little tacks in her hand. She looks up at me and immediately I understood. They were in her bed. Placed there for her to find by the sensation only they could give. Who would do such a thing? Colton. Yes, you guessed it, the boy found his way. Without hesitation I ran into his room and immediately he found the error of his ways. I didn't even have to say a word my presence over his bed was more than enough. His eyes matched mine and we both knew...

All of this was dealt with while the Man of the House sat on our bed laughing in silence. His grin was huge and his pride even larger. That's my boy! I could read the thought all over the smirk that had settled on his face.

That night will go down in our history. The story will be told many times over the years. No matter how distorted and stretched that it becomes it will always live in our memory. The memory of four people that lived in a house full of love and craziness. Priceless.

I shall praise even still...

2007-08-14T09:21:00.000-06:00

We are in a peculiar place in life right now. Sort of like a crossroads waiting to see which turn to take and where that will lead us. There is a specific opportunity we have been praying about as well as our house selling. We truly felt that yesterday was the day. We were suppose to receive a phone call about this opportunity and on Sunday we had an open house with a lot of people coming through. We really were confident that we would receive both phone calls yesterday. We talked about it, prayed about it, expected it. We were even told to be expecting the call about the opportunity. Anyways, the minute ticked by. The hours came and left and at the end of the day not one phone call. I couldn't believe it. Why? I really don't know why.

As I was driving in the car yesterday evening, kind of internally pouting about the whole situation, I felt God ask, "So, no phone calls, will you praise me even still?" I had to think a little bit and then had to respond with a , "Yes, Lord, I will still praise You."

It is not always easy. I won't even pretend to understand it. But I do praise my Lord. Trusting Him.

some googleness

2007-08-13T19:58:00.001-06:00

What is your homepage? I use igoogle and I love it. I do. Not like I love my husband but you know love in the really like kind of way. Why did I feel the need to expound on that? O well...I feel better.

You can choose from all sorts of gadgets. One of the gadgets that I have is google reader (I use this instead of bloglines). As soon as I click online I am updated on blogs that have updated. Good stuff. I also have google talk (people get on there) and my email gadget. For fun we have hang-man and post-it notes. I could live on this page. Amanda over at Oh Amanda is the one who showed me the way. I must say she is pretty smart. :). Also, if you have igoggle, make your own personal gadget (click here) and share it with me. I would share mine with you, but well, I don't know how to do that just yet.

I know this is a random post. Yea for randomness and on that note yea for all things google.

49 years

2007-08-09T20:09:00.000-06:00

Today is my parents 49th Anniversary.

Amazing.

At the edge of my seat...

2007-08-06T14:55:00.000-06:00

My man is coming home. He has been gone for 5 nights. I miss him...to say the least.

Also, be praying, someone came by to look at our house today. Who knows? Maybe this is the day!!!

Here is a look at my to-do list:
1. sell house
2. find job
3. buy house

So happy...I could sing a song.

Summer Afternoons and School Clothes

2007-08-05T22:57:00.000-06:00

Can you believe they asked me? It's true. They asked to have their picture taken. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. The catch was that they wanted to wear the school clothes we purchased yesterday. I am up for shooting on a lonely afternoon. So off to the park we went.
Look at these shoes! They are super cute. The sweet girl loves them. In case you cannot tell they are covered in hearts. In her words..."who cares if they don't match everything...!...they have hearts all over them!"
This girl is all about a great accessory. We found this headband at a new store called Zida. It is one of those in love stores.
Oh for the love. This boy steals my heart. He picked out this shirt from Ross. As soon as his eyes saw this it became his favorite. It will most likely be the shirt he wears every time it is clean. You know the one? Did you notice his new do? He got a faux hawk back when we were traveling with LIFT. He felt the need for some newness.
His football made the pic. It was easier than the ball and bat he wanted. I enjoy his love for sports. If only I understood more about them.
Do you ever feel like your heart lives in others? I believe it is the ones whom we love that carry our heart.

The time machine is headed back to high school...come along.

2007-08-03T12:20:00.000-06:00

1. Who was your best friend? For most of the years it was Brandi Jackson. We did everything together. We even felt the need to work at the same place. The last couple of years we slowed the hanging out process due to different ideas of fun.

2. Did you play any sports? I had an athletic pass. Does that count? Our school counted Dance Team as a sport. The husband and I still have feuds about this topic. I really don't care if it was a sport or not, I just wanted to get into the events for free. That's me SPORTY debra.

3. What kind of car did you drive? I had a White Nissan Sentra. I still have the car keys. I loved it. I loved it even more than you think. I would like to tell you what year it was but seriously I don't remember. After that car was wrecked (I don't want to talk about that) I got a Mitsubishi Mirage, also white, that was nicer but I didn't like it as much.

4. It’s Friday night. Where were you? Eagle Stadium. Oh the memories! The lights, the sounds, the fun are unmatched to this day. At half time we would go out and perform some goofy routine. The highlight of the night, for me, was officer strut. Yes, it is as bad as it sounds. Before the team would perform we (the officers) would do our own little dance while the announcers introduced us. As shallow as that sounds it was great fun.

5. Were you a party animal? That was not me. I was a little too scared to party. One time (okay...two times) I did go to a teen dance club in Houston. My parents didn't know until I told them...that same weekend. I just couldn't help myself...I was so scared they would find me out. About the club: I loved the dancing and music but I hated the drunk smelling guys thinking they could dance all over you.

6. Were you considered a flirt? Hmmm. I really don't think so.

7. Were you in the band, orchestra or choir? I was in performing choir. It wasn't as important as it sounds. I enjoyed it. I was also in the girls class act choir and my name made the credits as the choreographer for pop show.

8. Were you a nerd? Most likely borderline...who knows?

9. Were you ever suspended or expelled? No. I had detention often. I don't remember why. Probably tardies.

10. Can you sing the fight song? Yes. If the music were on I could belt out the words with strength. I think that is my husbands, the football player, fault.

11. Who was your favorite teacher? Mr.Johnson from Middle School. He was cool. He gave me a writing award. My least favorite was a guy from Intermediate school, Mr.Skinner, who would spray WD-40 on me because he said I was squeaky.

12. What was your school mascot? The Eagle

13. Did you go to the Prom? Of course. I wouldn't miss that party.

14. If you could go back, would you? Sometimes I think so...

15. What do you remember most about graduation? Feeling so sad that this was actually happening. And then again very excited about the future.

16. Where were you on Senior Skip Day? Did we have one?

17. Did you have a job your senior year? What wasn't my job. I worked at the movie theater for years and then my senior year I needed a change. So change I did. A lot of job change.

18. Where did you go most often for lunch? This is a tie between the steak and potato bar and the taco salad line. I know this is weird but I liked our school food.

19. Have you gained weight since then? Sadly yes. Well not sadly! I would look weird if I were still that small. I think I weighed all of 100 lbs.

20. What did you do after graduation? KW Community College for a year. Got married then went to Baptist Bible College in Springfield, MO.

21. What year did you graduate? The Class of 1995

22. Who was your Senior Prom Date? The love of my life...Ernest

23. Are you going/did you go to your 10 year reunion? Missed it due to a youth function. I was able to see all the pictures and that was better. We sat and laughed for hours. It is crazy how much we all change.

If you dare go back in time with me let me know...

Thank You Mer!

2007-08-03T10:20:00.000-06:00

I feel very honored to have received this award from sweet Meredith. She keeps a great blog so go and visit her. Thank you Mer!

Chasing HIM.

2007-08-02T12:08:00.000-06:00

Do you long to be a world changer? Do you? Are you truly in love with God? If you love him as much as you say you do then what would you do for Him? Would you risk failure? Would you risk security? Would you risk loosing yourself? How much do you care about your image? Would you be willing to be crazy for him? Key word...crazy. People might just think you are crazy. Are you okay with that?

These are all questions that I have had to answer in the last year. It is essentially where the rubber met the road. Where my true love would be shown.

I, in no means, am perfect. Actually far from it. FAR. We have been places. We have hurt each other and other people all the while lathering in selfishness. We have learned grace through horrible circumstances. We faced many failures in our faith walk all the way back to our teenage years.

All the while something divine was happening. God was essentially wooing us to him. We knew him we just didn't know him.

Today I read in 1 Samuel 14 about Jonathan going out and taking on the Philistines all the while Saul is sitting under a tree. I long to be a Jonathan rather than a Saul. I don't merely want to watch this God thing happen, I want to be in the midst of it. I feel renewed in my faith today. Thank You Father. I don't care what I will be doing in the midst of things...I will change trash can liners for my LORD. Wherever he chooses for me to be will be my happiness. He is happiness.

We can all be God lovers. That is the beauty. We are all called to an adventure! Are you out of your comfort zone? That is a pretty big clue that you are in God's amazing will.

At the end of your life...what will the headline of your life say. Not what do you want it to say but what (because of the way you live your life) will it say...

He is out there. Chase after HIM.

a year has passed...

2007-07-31T09:19:00.000-06:00

Last year around August we sat down with heavy hearts and spoke the words that were stirring in our hearts. We both felt God speak to us saying that this would be our last school year here in Abilene. The leading was to pursue the dreams that he had planted in our hearts long ago. The dreams of speaking, writing, and serving teenagers and college students in a different way. We often battled these dreams and thought we might be creating them ourselves. It was a great fear. From the depth of our heart we do not want to be anywhere that God has not ordained for us.

We remembered the words from a great man..."if God desires something from you he will bring it into action." Meaning we would not have to manipulate anything into being. Great stress off. God has determined our steps. We must be faithful to follow.

So in the quietness of our hearts we prayed. We kept our word silent from those around us. This was a time just for us to search out the way of our Father. I started this blog to keep record of this particular journey.

Our pastor (& boss) had been aware of our dream from the beginning of our meeting. He knew that it was out there somewhere. He and Ernest would even speak about it sometimes. We were questioning God whether or not to share this new found word with our Pastor. God kept our mouths silent so that he could do the work. Our prayer was that he would speak to pastor and that we would find favor with him. We were praying this from around August until Springtime.

As God was churning our heart he was also speaking with Pastor. Around Springtime Pastor came to us and said he felt God saying to him that it was time for us to pursue our dream. Wow. God showed up! The transition began very soon. Our life was thrown into public motion.

Here we find ourselves in August. It is a year since God spoke his word to us. The transition here is complete. Complete. We stand in wait. At attention even. This is where he desires us to be in his will. I have no clue what tomorrow holds. I am waiting for the and God showed up moment. I feel somewhat like Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego because my heart says "God will show up...but if not, i will trust the quietness is from him."

Look what was in my quiet time this morning Psalm 27:13-14. God's word is good.

If you want to read this story as it played out click on the links in life in transition to the side. It is listed in order from present to past. I thought I would let you in on some of the background knowledge.

Boredom turns to Pictures

2007-07-30T18:44:00.000-06:00

Boredom struck today. Here are some shots of the humble abode. Enjoy!

My Barbie Dream House

2007-07-30T08:52:00.000-06:00

We will be moving soon. Somewhere. That is certain. We have turned down a lot of opportunities in search of the God one. We are confident in the waiting.

We have been looking at houses in areas that we are familiar with. Just thinking... totally not saying that we are moving there. In that process I found it. My barbie dream house. It is perfect just like it was in my childhood dreams. It is completely out of my price range but it is in my heart range. I love everything about it. At least through screen images. The kitchen is all I could ask for. I am anything but a master chef but oh how I could see myself cooking away in that place. I haven't even mentioned the windows. The windows. amazing.

Take a look at the dream house that is completely clouds away. Click here.

Some Shopping Therapy

2007-07-28T13:58:00.000-06:00

Shopping is a good form of therapy. There is just something about going out and searching for cuteness. I am the one walking along with my 9 year old personal shopper. You can pick the two of us out easily due to our overzealous joy about sales. We are savvy shoppers. Oh yes. She is super because she loves to carry the loot.

That is just what it was like on Friday afternoon as we loved on the Mall of Abilene. I was in search of a new dress. Something simple and very me. The kind that when you see it you know it is the one. It is matchable to love at first sight. Do you ever have those shopping feelings?

It happened. The first store that we came to had the dress. When I saw it the roof of heaven opened up and light beams shown down upon it. Well, okay, it was not that dramatic...but still. It was even better in the dressing room when I tried it on and it fit. The best part of this dress is the price...under $20.(When you are trying to save every penny for an unknown upcoming move this is cool.) I have a few tanks that I am going to add to complete the look.

The trip went on to include shoes for $13 and accessories for under $10. Good times if I do say so. We even found a new shirt for the most amazing man in my life. A button down American Eagle L/S for only $15. He makes the shirt look great.

Back to the reason for my post. Am I the only one out here in blogville that shops for clothes like them. Is this some added weird factor to me? Really...what makes clothes like you anyway? We say it all the time...that is so you...this is so me. I do love the dress but now I am left to wonder what makes it feel like me.

We are talking FLATSCREEN!

2007-07-28T10:57:00.000-06:00

I am so in.

I entered...you should too.

Click here to enter for this giveaway at 5 minutes for mom.

Also...thanks to best buy for this amazing deal.

Let's have a P.A.R.T.Y.

2007-07-27T09:19:00.000-06:00

It is Friday.

I had a great time last night with a friend. We walked and talked. Our passion over the Lord is consuming and we both love that. It was so refreshing talking with her. I rarely get the chance to talk with other women who share my passion. I think that is why I love this blogland so much. You women rock! You have an amazing desire to love and share love.

So I decided today is praise day. That's right...let's give him some praise.

He is doing a good work in me. He loves me when I am unaware. You, sweet father, are more than deserving of my praise. It may look bleak. There are no answers but at this moment all is well. Why? Because I have you on my side. I delight in you. I praise you because you know the future. That puts my soul in rest. You do that to me...you bring me rest. How amazing you are. If I follow you then you will lead me. You amaze me. AMAZE me.

What do you praise him for today? please join in the praise party.

Searching {Him} ...

2007-07-26T12:54:00.000-06:00

The stirring is deep in my soul. I have been watching, along with the rest of the world, the news about Lindsey and Britney. I have no idea how you guys feel about their situation. I have noticed some troubling truths about us. (us being the people who know truth) We tend to point out where the ladies are wrong instead of seeing them through the beauty of God. My deep feeling comes from the truth that God loves them.

He absolutely head over heels loves them. His heart desire is to draw them to him.

I do believe they are searching. As girls we all tend to search out significance. They have reached the top of stardom where they thought happiness and fulfillment would be. Life seems so good there. Yet they are lacking that very thing. It is almost a starving of the soul. Their soul is deep in search for it's mate. God's desire is that nothing short of him would please that feeling.

They need God in the flesh. They need someone to love them despite where they are. Who will do it? I have read some disturbing things in the last couple of days. Sometimes our eyes get so twisted that we see the sin before we see the sinner.

If I had a chance to talk with either of them I have no idea what I would say. I hope that God's amazing love would flow from a sinner like me and lavish upon a sinner like them.

Instead of dropping our jaw in disrespect to what they are doing may we be broken for their lack of knowledge. They are walking in this life without our heart healer Jesus. Life without him is brokenness.

Make us willing to be love to them. I know you are love in the purest form. It can only come from you. Teach us, Father, to be more like you.

{Sparkly} White

2007-07-25T21:03:00.000-06:00

Here's the inside scoop...

The last 9 days I have been looking downright amazing every night for at least 2 hours. This is how I know. I am in the "night white" mode. What does that mean? This: I have been wearing silicone trays on my teeth filled with bleach.

It hurts. Tonight I was sitting on the couch and the pain was so intense that I decided to take the trays out early. I don't think it is suppose to hurt that bad. I really want whiter teeth so I willing to endure the pain.

Here is the problem now, I have whiter teeth, but as of tonight, I also have some white "hurt" spots on my gums. They are very irritated. Each time I eat my gums burn. Not good. I think it is a combination of extra flossing and bleach. I don't think my dentist is going to be very happy with me continuing this treatment.

A couple of months ago I went to the dentist because I had major tooth pain. I had to have a root canal. crazy. Now I am getting my teeth whitened due to a cavity I need filled on one of my front teeth. Too much dental work lately. Braces coming soon. I think I am too old for this but hey I want straight white teeth.

We go through some crazy stuff for beauty.

What about you? Any painful beauty treatments lately?

Is there an R.V. in our future?

2007-07-23T21:00:00.001-06:00

The front porch is a place to dream and talk the night away. All the talking in our house revolves around the motion in which God is moving us. We still have yet to receive a clear answer. He has told us to go we are just waiting to know where to go. The view from our porch is of this sweet R.V. We have spent much time rehearsing a "buyers pitch" to our neighbors. You see if all else fails we think we could buy that R.V. and tour the country in it. It is old, I know. Don't worry...we have a plan. We can call Pimp my Ride from MTV. What do you think? If we need to live in California, no problem, we could have our residence there in 3 days. That would be the beauty of living in your vehicle. If our neighbor's knew how much conversation we have over their R.V...they would laugh their heads off.

Truthfully, at this point, we do not feel a calling to travel in this R.V. But I am telling you if God said do it, we would. Our hearts are tender to his will. I want to remember this moment because I am unsure if we have ever been so eager. I promise I am not trying to brag. If you knew from where I have come you would know. We are just ready and willing. WHEREVER you lead.

Waiting for the blazing arrow (or tender word).

The {thirsty} Princess

2007-07-22T22:30:00.001-06:00

There is a sweet princess sleeping in the next room. These days she falls asleep rather well. There were days, mind you, that it was pure torture. I am serious. I remember them without fondness. Training her to sleep in a toddler bed was crazy. She is nothing short of strong willed. When we would tuck her in she would just get up. I remember the nightly battle.

After a period of time she would stay in her bed she would just scream until she would finally sleep. Some nights we could add some wall banging to the sound of blood curling screams. Those nights I would sit on the opposite side of her bedroom door and pray. "Lord please put this child to sleep"...The Lord always provided because he knew my lack of patience.

Time moved on and the baby girl continued to grow. We stretched to the stage of requests before sleep. Oh yes, the requests. "Please read me one more story" "I am hungry" "I'm thirsty"...the list goes on and on.

One night during this fun stage she requested a drink. "I'm thirsty" "Mommy, I am thirsty". Can you hear her calling? "No, Carly, you are not thirsty..." After doing the back and forth for a while her cuteness peeked.

She looked up with her big beautiful brown eyes and said to her daddy "Daddy, Jesus lives in my heart, right?" Ernest replies tiredly "Yes, Carly" "Well Daddy...Jesus is thirsty and he wants a drink..."

Out of the mouth of babes.

Needless to say, she got a drink that night. By all means...Jesus was thirsty.

It is true, I do not miss the nights full of screaming torture. My baby girl is growing up. Some days I miss the little one that could get away with such cuteness. There are still nights when I walk out of her room and praise my sweet Jesus for a peaceful night. God made her feisty and I love him all the more for it.

Signature How-To

2007-07-20T21:08:00.000-06:00

I have already got some e-mails requesting a signature how-to. I went here to create it. Comment and let me know if you decide to make one.

**updated**after you get your code copy it in the post template box. You get to this box by going to settings then click on formating scroll down until you reach the post template box. I don't know if this is the best way to do it but it works.

Happy Blogging.

Laughter and Hot Dates

2007-07-20T20:07:00.000-06:00

Explanation from bottom left and then around.

Serious picture? yeah right. I had the cheesy smile going on so this is me trying to shake it. Wouldn't you know that Ernest snapped the camera at that moment...

Ernest loves these big glasses. (He will enjoy me telling you this) When we were first married he wanted me to buy him some glasses exactly like this. He said they were manly glasses. And after all now he was a man. We laughed because we no longer have the man glasses. What does that mean exactly?

After dinner and a quick trip to the mall we stopped off at the park. We carried our cooler with bubbly juice and strawberries out to the water. It was fun. We sat and listened to the lions roaring at the zoo. It was a very surreal sweet moment.

Last but not least...

On our way back to the car we decided to stop at the park and play. We took turns in the swing and then decided we needed to go down the slide. This is the highlight of the evening. I have not laughed so hard in years. Ernest went first and it was a good thing because he got stuck. Yes, you heard me right, he got stuck. I happened to be right behind him with my handy dandy camera. I will treasure this photo always.

What a great night.

The Inspiration

2007-07-19T13:14:00.001-06:00

I have had a lot of fun playing around this blog. Maggie inspired me to do something about the blah look of my blog. (She did not use those words, I did.) Thank you Maggie. After talking with some friends and getting some great ideas this is what I did. I talked to Amy about texture paper and she gave me the greatest tip about photographing paper. I have a set of note cards that I love so I took a picture of them and it turned into the header. I jumped on publisher and added some pictures that will hopefully give the look and feel that we want. It is a bit girly for my man but he can handle it.

I read lots of tutorials here. It is pretty easy to get around. It will tell you how to do almost anything.

Thanks for all the inspiration and help guys.

Romance on the Porch

2007-07-19T13:01:00.000-06:00

Look what I got today. The man loves me. These were on my front porch with an invitation for a hot date tonight. Of course I said yes! Now I have to figure out what to wear...fun.

A Clap Offering

2007-07-18T21:18:00.000-06:00

Peace.

Overwhelming Love.

Fun in the waiting.

Anticipation.

All-knowing God.

Laughter and Tears.

I praise you Father. I praise you. You are in complete know of what our tomorrow holds. I sit in awe of you and the joy in which you work. I am almost giddy over the way that you are choosing to write this story. We are free falling with the peace that you are the cushion to which we will land. We are crazy over you. I would have it no other way. So many are worried on our behalf but today Lord we choose to believe. We believe you to be HUGE. We trust in you against all the our own "safe" knowledge.

You deserve more than my words. You have captured my heart.

And they get it...

2007-07-18T09:14:00.000-06:00

written by Ernest

For some time now I have been urging our students to press in to God and truly experience Him for who He really is. I wanted them to go beyond mere "Christians" and be true Christ followers who are passionately in love with their Savior. Some thought they were already there, some thought I was talking of some mystical place only a select few make it to, while others didn't really care. I was tired of seeing them just fall in line with the same ol' same ol' church life with little or no fulfillment, joy, or excitement. There is more to following Christ than the example that is shown on most Sunday mornings and definitely throughout the week. I have to admit that it was a frustrating venture at times.

As you probably know having read some of my beautiful bride's posts that we are now in transition. God has spoken and by faith we are stepping out. To where, we don't know yet but that is a different story all together.

Anyways, we turned our students over to our replacements with only one more chance to see them truly connect with God; church camp.

Our students would be going to one of the camps that we were helping run. Let me just say that God showed up and we saw Him really work on the hearts and lives of the students there, not just with those from our group but students from all of the youth groups who attended. It was an amazing sight.

Here's where they got it. They come home from camp and I begin receiving phone calls. They are now calling all of their friends, going through the list of players from their sports teams, & talking to co-workers about God. They can't shut up about Him. There is a fire in their eyes; a passion in their soul to share their Jesus with others.

One of the students came up to me and apologized and said, "I thought I had the vision you talked about. I thought I knew what it meant to truly experience God, but I didn't. I now know what the big deal was about. Thank you." WOW, what that will do to your heart.

At church on Sunday we witnessed as some of these students shared their testimonies. Others followed up salvation decisions with baptism. It was amazing. Following the services one of the ladies in the church came up to us and said, "What an awesome testimony of your service to God here!" I say, "What an awesome testimony to God's grace!"

Thank you God for this going away gift! Thank you for allowing us to witness and be a part of them "getting it".

Who do they say that I am?

2007-07-17T10:18:00.001-06:00

Who do they say that I am.

I have always worried about that question. It is true. I wonder what image I portray. Do they see the real me? Do they see the God in me?

At this moment God is challenging this issue. We are on the brink of what lies ahead and in the same minute we are looking back on the legacy we left.

I am sure people have their opinions both good and bad. To be totally transparent, it hurts to know that someone may have a blurred vision of us or our ministry. It hurts deep to the very core of my emotions. I wish I were not like that. I wish I could just merely see God in the story and be good.

These last couple of weeks, while amazing, were so hard. We traveled with an amazing group of students doing camps. I fell head over heels in love with those kids. The last camp that we hosted our "former" students attended. Hard. We worked hard to keep our distance and love them from afar. They do not understand. The last night the camp leader requested that we go out to candlelight time with them and their new leaders. He said that we all needed closure but to be full of truth...I did not want to go. I hate to cry and I knew that I would not be able to hold it in. We stood there in the middle of this circle and let these kids lavish their love upon us. I cannot count the tears that were shed. We love them and they love us.

God is in the business of motion. He is stirring the motion of my heart, life, security, dreams, and so much more.

In the end, it does not matter what they say about me. I am here to please him. No matter how this motion makes me feel, I will hold tight to truth.

Marriage :: Eleven

2007-07-15T18:17:00.001-06:00

11 years of loving each other. It is good.

Year 1 :: fresh. Late night grocery trips. eating dinner on the floor in front of the fireplace. working. school. 1014 C. Cocoa the baby dog. love. candlelight dinners. airplanes landing outside our window. finding out we were pregnant. (how did that happen?) lots of laughing.

Year 2 :: purchased our first home. surrendered to ministry. moved to BBC. Carly was born. sweet pink moments. dinner around the table. big bellies and massages. first snow. growth. sunflowers. finding out that we were pregnant. (how did that happen..again?)

Year 3 :: moving out of married housing. Prospect. Baby blue. no sleep. drama and friendships. vacation bible school. internship. paper routes. lemonade.

Year 4 :: first ministry job. back yard sunflowers. garden. grilling out nightly. lightning bugs. picnics in the grass. laundry. date nights. smiles.

Year 5 :: school. work. kids. ministry. diapers. bottles. the time out chair. jesus being thirsty. friends.

Year 6 :: hard. hurt. growth. big love. learning what love means. larry boy and barbie hair. houston. mosquitoes. astros. galveston. dates. rebuilding. honest.

Year 7 :: finally graduation time. second ministry job. abilene. kids in school. lunch dates. writing. worship. paper in trees. love. security.

Year 8 :: baseball. valentines day dinner. family time. canterbury trails. new friends. biblestudy by candlelight. growing every day.

Year 9 :: mission trips. students. family. love. birthing dreams. more new friends. possum kingdom. laughter.

Year 10 :: new house. pto. church. movement. intercession. cruise. europe. black dress. celebration. kids. life.

Year 11 :: change. faith. time. dream. late night talks. new car. christmas lights. photography. camp. loving. coffee. blockbuster online. books.

July 13th we celebrated 11 years of marriage. craziness!

Still Camping

2007-07-10T15:19:00.000-06:00

We are still at camp. This week we are at Letourneou University in Longview, Texas. It is a small intimate camp this week (only 250 campers).

God is good. I love the fact that I have been in deep worship for 2 weeks. I love it. I would not trade it for the world.

I just thought I would let you know where we were. Once again no real computer access in our rooms so I will check on you guys soon.

Tune in @ 7 cst and worship with us. Click here to visit the site then click on live stream during service times. Let me know if you check it out.

Go.Sell.Give.Follow.

2007-07-05T20:45:00.000-06:00

Mark 10:21

Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," He said. "Go, sell everything you have and give it to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

That was Jesus' plea to this rich young man who wanted to inherit the kingdom of heaven. But for the man the price was too great. In the next moment he hung his head full of sadness and walked away because he was not willing to loose what he had for what he could not see.

My question to myself tonight...(as this was being preached) am I really willing? really? Can I really die to myself so that I can follow him wherever he leads? What if he leads me away from the dream that hovers in my thoughts? Can the pride be set aside and ruined for what is better?

One thing I don't want to happen is this: I don't want to be at the end of my life and regret not taking a chance. People, I am scared. It is getting to be more scary as the days move on. I just know that he is out there past all the fear.

He is asking will you go.sell.give.follow. Will you, for me? Do you love and trust me that much?

He is good and I am just wild over Him. He is doing a new work in my heart, to be honest, I am thankful.

How is he stretching you these days?

Blisters and Worship

2007-07-03T11:37:00.000-06:00

Camping with the family has been nothing short of tremendous. We are having a complete blast together. Ernest and I are crazy busy working. The kids are thinking this is the coolest place in America. I think part of it is because there is ice cream at the end of every meal.

I got blisters yesterday due to wearing cute shoes on busy Monday. What was I thinking? Cute is a very important factor...right?

One of the highlights has been worshiping side by side with the 3 people that I love most in the world. We don't get to do church together too often. (They go with us they just attend children's church.) We are just passing that stage of carrying back packs full of coloring books and games...I love it. They are in awe of the worship time. Carly carries this look of amazement as she watches her new friends love on their God. They have both been taken in by our college student rec. team. I am thankful for that.

God is drawing us close...the four of us closer to HIM...what better...

He never ceases to amaze me.

A Camping we will go!

2007-07-01T18:36:00.000-06:00

This week and next we will be traveling with Lift Student Ministries doing camp. Ernest flew out on Thursday and the kids and I met up with him yesterday. I drove by myself to Arkansas...that is a big feat for me.

You can check camp out Monday through Friday @ 7pm CST by going to my sidebar and clicking on Lift Sm and then click on live stream. (I would have inserted the link but that tool is enabled due to some strict filter.) We will be busy, busy so the blog may be kind of quiet and then again maybe not. Who knows? I do not have internet in our room so I am kind of sad about that.

Talk to you soon.

The Grandkids photo shoot

2007-06-30T08:21:00.000-06:00

We had a blast trying to get 4 kids to smile all at the same time. Here are the Parker bunch of grandbabies.

Only in my (big) Dreams...& a poll

2007-06-27T12:30:00.001-06:00

The funniest thing happened while at the Astros game.

The nice couple sitting next to me kept starring at me. It was strange. I would look at them and they would just smile a big grin. I just assumed that maybe they were looking over me to something else. hopefully.

Then the nice lady leans over and asks me a question. I could barely hear her so I ask her to say it again...

Here is what she says...

nice lady:Has anyone ever told you that you look like Kate Hudson?

me:What?

nice lady:Kate Hudson, the actress?

me:Only in my dreams...(laughter ensues)

Kate Hudson? That is a new one. I would love to look like Kate. Let's just take an inventory here....She has blonde hair, she is very skinny, I have dark hair, darker skin...

The baseball hat must work wonders. I think I may wear one for the rest of my days.

This brings me to a poll I have been wanting to take for a while. Caleb, stop laughing! No matter where I am I end up getting the question...What are you? Meaning what nationality are you. While in Europe I got this question so much that we mused over taking an on-line poll. So in an effort for me to find out the not so scientific answer I am asking you to comment your thoughts. I know what I am partially, so there you have a hint, but I don't know the other half.

I need lots of answers so please comment. Send your friends...they may be bored...they may need something to do...tell them some strange woman is taking a strange poll...that should attract a wild bunch!

All Things Transparent

2007-06-26T11:05:00.001-06:00

I like vellum paper. I like it in clear or in colored versions. I like those cute vellum gift bags. The kind you can get at bath junkie.

Sunday, while at Buffalo Gap State Park pool, I noticed that the floats that caught my eye were the transparent ones. One was a green alligator and the other was a blue dolphin. Something about them were just different from the others. They stood out to me in a big way.

I sat there (with time on my hands) and thought about how I like vellum paper and well mostly all things transparent.

I moved on to think how that is me in a nutshell. I am about all things being out in the open. To me it is beauty.

I love transparent people. I love to know about ones real life not the facade that they want you to see. Truly, I am not about people who want to show off a facade. I have been guilty of being one of those people before. No more.

I remember being young in ministry and thinking I had to present our family in such a way. Those days are over. We are Jesus Lovers through and through but yes we make mistakes. Sometimes big ones. My kids sometime misbehave and cry at the worst of times. I remember the "staff" dresses that I purchased. Also, as a teen going to camp purchasing cullotes that were that camp appropriate, might I add, I only wore them on that week.

It may sound like I am on a rant but I promise I am not. Just some thoughts from a strange brain.

Am I the only out here like this? Do we all long to see transparency?

Sprinkles

2007-06-25T12:26:00.001-06:00

Before leaving Dallas I had to stop by a great cupcakery (is that a word?) that I heard about from Amanda at Baby Bangs.

I must say that I loved this place. Not only because of the tasty cupcakes but also because of the experience. We lunched at The Corner Bakery and then went for dessert at Sprinkles. It was a beautiful afternoon spent with the people that I love most.

It was one of those moments where you take many long deep relaxing breaths so that the feeling may be savored for years to come.

He is 8!

2007-06-25T11:37:00.000-06:00

Colton and Biggio

What does the world look like for this amazing kid?

Today my boy, our baby, turned 8 years old. We woke up early to make his favorite breakfast, eggs and bacon. He opened presents and has already went shopping to pick out a game boy game for his new game boy. He has been saving for some time and now his joy is complete (for today).

For birthday festivities he has requested that we play "parker baseball". If the weather holds up you will see the four of us out at the ballpark acting like the pros that we are. I think this afternoon we are going to prepare with some batting practice at the local cages. I've got to get my game on.

We will end our evening enjoying Colton's favorite cuisine, "ballpark" dogs and "baseball" peanuts.

We had so much fun at the game on Friday night. We took Colton for his birthday. He loved every second of the game. We arrived before the doors opened so that we could try to get some autographs. If I had a more aggressive boy he would have scored many but no worries. He came away with a script from Jason Jennings. Not only did he get that but he sat forever and admired his favorite players Biggio and Berkman.

I am so honored to go through life with this child. He is precious, crazy, wild and so much more. He is the kid that carries 4 bibles to church for extra credit. I am serious. He receives more bible bucks for each bible brought. We think it is funny but he does not care. He likes cool hair cuts and his camo shorts. He thinks girls are gross and I love that. To this day there are times when he will reach out and grab my hand...how long will this last?

I treasure him. My boy.

I want to please him

2007-06-25T11:34:00.000-06:00

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone to comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those that earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6

I believe...

Today is a fresh day.

Where are the ashes?

2007-06-25T00:17:00.000-06:00

At the moment I cannot sleep. I feel like going out and searching for ashes to rub on my head to express the feeling the lies inside. Most of me does not want to write this. This is not what you are suppose to read on this faith journey. But truth be told today I am discouraged. I actually think that is an understatement.

Wouldn't you know it.

We have been on a vacation of sorts. We took our first week of vacation and went home to Houston so that our parents could see that we still, in fact, are fine. We had a great time. Refreshing even.

Even though we were having a great time there has been an underlying sadness or mourning over the loss of our students. It was the first time for us to be away and the new couple to take over. Take over. This means we step back. Stepping back is so hard. The words to express what I feel are just not here. Sad is as close as it is going to get. The trick is I cannot let the girls know that I feel this way. It would not be good for them because in an effort to comfort me they would cling for dear life. The flesh part of me desires that. I hate that. To be replaced stinks...no matter what circumstance surround it.

To top it off the minute we got home we received some bad news. Nothing life changing but enough to make one crazy. Satan at work. Fear and then more fear.

I know that I am whining. I am sorry.

I believe that God is preparing greatness around the corner. I am just unsure of the size of the corner. We have been thinking a lot about walking on water out to Jesus as opposed to standing in the boat...where are we?

Let's see:

1. We felt a leading from God to move on and he confirmed it

2. We put our house up for sale

3. We sent out resumes and informational cd's to some youth organizations

4. We will be without a paycheck and insurance as of the end of July

I am thinking that we at least have one leg out feeling the water. It is scarring us to death, our eyes are bulging with requests for a life preserver.

Still I believe. I pray for enough faith to take the full step.

At this point we are just living day to day, dreaming of the future that looms before us, longing for the security of yesterday.

I meant to post some fun stories about our trip. I have some great pictures to post from the Astros/Rangers game that we went to. This just had to come out first.

Another sleepless thought...This night 8 years ago I was contracting and awaiting the birth of my sweet boy. How time flies.

Galveston Island

2007-06-20T11:38:00.000-06:00

"You need to get your feet in some shoes"

2007-06-20T11:05:00.000-06:00

I knew I would get your attention.

I am in the throws of raising a little shopper. On Monday we went to the Galleria. Fun. Fun. We parked and entered the glorious mall through Macy's department store. Once we were in wouldn't you know that we would have to make a trip to the bathroom. We have kids! After walking out of the restroom we head straight into the shoe department and Carly spouts out the words..."You need to get your feet in some of those shoes"...I laughed and couldn't resist a pat on my back for a job well done.

We had a good day. Thank you Louise Tucker for lunch. We used our Chili's gift card and left filled to the gills. Carly scored winnings from Libby Lu and Colton came away with a Surfer hat from Gap. I also purchased a shirt from Gap. I think that rounded off our shopping. We mostly looked and played.

Surprises and Tears on Father's Day

2007-06-17T21:06:00.000-06:00

Sneaky. That is what attribute I had today.

Since things have been kind of crazy around our life lately I decided not to tell my parents we were coming to Houston. I did not want to disappoint them if we decided to take our week and sleep. When I knew for sure that we were coming I continued to keep my mouth shut about our plans in order host a grand surprise.

I love surprises.

When we come to town we stay at Ernest's parents house. (My parents only live about 10 minutes away.) The funny thing is my mom called and talked to me right after we arrived. My plan was to not be found out so I could walk into my parents church and surprise my dad.

Ernest was preaching for his dad, however, I decided to skip out on his message and head farther down 59 for some much needed 'time'.

Finally, I make it to the church, get out, and honestly I can feel the size of my hair growing from all the humidity. That is one thing that I do not miss about H-town. I make my way to the entrance of their small church and quickly am greeted by an usher. Sweetness. I scan the room looking for the one man in the room without gray hair. I make my way over to his pew start walking towards him and I get the blankest stare I have ever seen. He is looking right at me and yet has not 'noticed' me. He had that look on his face of "I know that person". You know the look? It was so funny. The moment he realized it was me, was well, worth all the effort. The biggest smile and strongest hug. Love. Then that is when it happened. He cried. Did you hear me? He cried.

The surprise worked. There was nothing he could have wanted more than to have one of his very own sit beside him in church. My daddy, I love him.

My mom soon noticed me (from the choir loft) and with the same eagerness showed me her love and joy. My dad had to stand and make a bold announcement that his baby daughter was there from Abilene to see him and that I made him cry. What a man!

So, to my daddy, I love you, For so many things to numerous to list. You have held me captive for many years. That is the way it is suppose to be. I will never forget your tears as we walked the aisle at my wedding. I considered not becoming a Mrs. if it would cost your heart. Forever you will always be my daddy. The first man in my life.

H-Town

2007-06-15T20:42:00.001-06:00

Houston get ready...we will be seeing you tomorrow.

I am not sure how much I will post in the next week. We will be hanging out with family and then off to Arlington for a Rangers/Astros game on Friday.

My Cardio Work-Out in Pictures

2007-06-14T18:08:00.001-06:00

Saddling up some horses getting ready to blaze a trail

Ernest in Showtime Round-Up

Praising Loud

Pure Craziness

Something we are not is country. We are not about country music or anything similar yet this week we are on a wild ride with everything country and loving every second.

My cardio work-out

2007-06-12T13:59:00.000-06:00

This week I do not have to worry about doing cardio. It is being taken care of at VBS. That is right, singing and dancing is my job! My legs are sore as well as my cheeks from smiling so much. I love leading those kids in worship. It is so amazing. They have no reservation...that is so fresh.

Monday we had 111 kids and 70 workers

Today we had 124 kids and 65 workers

**Updated to add**

Wednesday we had 132 kids and about 70 workers

Thursday we had 126 kids and we celebrated 22 children who believed in Christ!!!

Friday we had 125 kids and a lot of workers (I didn't count)

If you are looking for a great vbs to do check out Group's Avalanche Ranch. They put out a new one each year. We are always more than pleased with their presentation.

Small Group

2007-06-10T20:42:00.000-06:00

Our house has been filled with teens for more years than I can recall. My heart is sad over the vacant spot that our Sunday nights will hold. God has a plan for our time. I know that. I believe.

Here is the look and feel of our home at Sunday night small group. I really should have gone out and taken a picture of the cars lined up on our road. It is a sight to behold.

I love to SHOP!

2007-06-10T14:34:00.001-06:00

It is quite tragic that I have not been able to shop lately. I love to shop. I love to go and search for something special. More than any of the above, I love to find a great deal.

Last summer I went searching for a little black dress to be worn while on our cruise. The problem was that it needed to have a little price tag as well. I was hoping for
the $20 - $50 dollar range but instead I got a dress for 49 cents. I am serious! It is my miracle dress. I think I have posted about this before so I will move on.

Today I had some time to kill and I thought I would shop. Window shop online. I found some fun stuff. Wanna see? Of course you do.

I have no idea what draws me to this shirt but I feel the need...

Jeans are my favorite article of clothing

I am a lover of bracelets

What about this dress? I can see it hanging in the closet...!

Did I mention that I love earrings?

I am itching to actually order this stuff. In case you are in the mood to shop I found all this stuff at Forever21. I love that store.

Now I am hunting for the perfect shoes to go along with the outfits...

Baking Cakes

2007-06-09T11:26:00.001-06:00

Last weekend we threw a little shindig for our friends and their baby. They do not live in Abilene anymore so it was just a time for all our friends to come and see the newest family member.

A few days before this party I read this post from Alison and I loved the cake so I tried my best to steal the idea. I hope you don't mind Alison. I enjoy everything about you even your cake style.

Life in this day

2007-06-05T16:14:00.000-06:00

Today I started the decorating projects for our VBS which is next week. Instead of being on the computer I need to be learning the motions for our songs. VBS week is a great chance to get your groove on. I am just not in the mood to dance right now.

I am sitting here contemplating a lot of nothing. Actually a lot of everything but nothing that is going to change here in the next few minutes.

Transition is hard. The new couple is here and we are in the throws of getting to know them and introducing our students to them. There are minutes when I am sitting talking with her and laughing about the girls when all of a sudden the thought hits me..."I am handing them to you"...immediate gut punch. I know this is God's plan, however, it does not make it any easier.

The new couple are very nice and I am sure they will be great. In ministry it is weird when someone steps into your job. It is almost like they live your life and what was your love becomes theirs.

This Sunday is our last Sunday to be in the official Youth Pastor position. After that we will be hanging around the college class until our move at the end of the summer. We are going to be at many camps and all so we should be pretty busy.

Above all this I am desiring a word from my Father about our next step. My faith is being tested. We still have no clue where we are going.

Today while driving to the church alone I was talking to my Father and asked for some answers. He did not give me answers yet his word was spoken. This is what he said to me...I want you to praise me...even now...when you are hurting...praise me LOUD.

I turned up the music praised him in song, with tears, and in words of surrender. He is worth all my praise even on this a bleak and dreary faith day.

I do praise him for the unknown. I do love him to the extent of my knowledge. He is so in control of my life. It does not matter that I feel completely out of control.

Even yesterday I was just talking to God and in my head I was saying "my heart is sad" but when the words were spoken I said "my heart is steadfast". He is in control. My hope lies in him.

Just a note to say that the whole time I typed this out Carly was standing next to me doing card tricks. An illusionist in training.

Are we there yet?

2007-06-03T21:25:00.001-06:00

"Are we there yet?"

no.

"Are we there yet?"

silence.

Looking out my window the same scenery graces my eyes and yet I ask...

"Are we there yet?"

no. not yet.

Would it be helpful to know where 'there' is?
What do you want us to do next?
Will our house sell?
Do you still see me here?
Do you know how tired I am?
Do you know how very scared I am?

My heart yearns for more of you and less of me.

Looking up

2007-05-30T09:45:00.000-06:00

I am just sitting here thinking about life and all it possesses. Life is full of ups and downs, twists and turns. One thing that is constant about life is change. I read a devotional by Max Lucado recently that talked about the Israelites wondering in the wilderness and as they began to gripe, complain and murmur they looked up and it was raining manna. God had showed up and provided for their needs. He challenged the reader to look up when they were in doubt because God knows our need and He will provide. Sometimes I feel like I look up and all I see are gray clouds.

Last night I was outside with my wife and we looked up and the sky was bright blue and there were big fluffy white clouds. In front of each white cloud stood (or floated) a gray cloud just as fluffy. As we joked about how we feel that way sometimes I realized that even though there were gray clouds blocking the white clouds were still there. The same is true with God. Sometimes our life gets crazy or we find ourselves at a place where the future seems unclear and from our human perspective all we notice is the gray clouds but God is still there the whole time. In the midst of pain, in the midst of doubt, in the midst of gray clouds our God is still there shining as white as ever and in control of all things.

I have been asking God to help me to trust Him more and to take me to a place of following him more closely and intimately. Now I am being stretched and tried and battling doubt and discouragement and I am asking why. As I cry out to God for relief it is then that He responds, "Well which do you want?" "Do you want to learn to trust me more and follow me more closely or do you want relief?"

God is good ALL the time. Remembering to trust Him ALWAYS!

My girls

2007-05-27T21:07:00.001-06:00

My girls.

These are my girls. I love all our students and yes the girls hold special places in my heart. These three have been with me since our first moments in Abilene. During our senior tribute the four of us sat together held hands and glistened with tears. Happy tears. My heart was heavy with joy and deep with sadness over the end of an era. I am so proud of these beautiful young women.

That's right young women...not girls. (I need to remember that.)

There have been endless nights of laughing and sincere talking. So many questions I have answered (so many that I won't). So many times my cheeks have blushed on cue. They always try to make me blush with s*ex questions. They have woken me at 2 in the morning to do pyramids and chant the word s*ex while throwing up starburst wrappers as confetti. Needless to say they are excited about the future. Last year for our 10th wedding anniversary this group of girls threw me a "party" to equip me with what they thought I needed for our cruise. I humored them and went.

On a more serious note. I have had the wonderful privilege to see them come to Christ. We have shed tears together as repentance took place. The beauty of their willing heart before their ultimate lover is priceless. I watched it happen. I call our girls ministry "becoming" because we are in the state of becoming more like Christ. That is what these girls have become and I was present for it. There is no greater paycheck. These girls are not perfect, they have a lot of growing to do, then again so do I. So do we.

Here is what I wanted to say. I love them. My heart is wrapped in theirs. God did that and now it is time to say good bye.

Hard. Good. Right.

Love on.

Fun.

2007-05-25T14:02:00.000-06:00

To enter an amazing contest go here. The winner of this contest will win some of this. Fun. Fun. Fun.

House For Sale

2007-05-23T13:51:00.000-06:00

If you would like to see our listing click here.

For those of you visiting from our listing here is the slide show of other rooms. If you would like to see a picture of a certain room e-mail us and we will send it to you.

Thank You. Enjoy.

Pearls

2007-05-19T09:21:00.000-06:00

This is a good story and a good read if you will. Ernest used this in his talk to the teens last Wednesday. I have not been able to shake the story. Let me know your thoughts.

The cheerful little girl with bouncy golden curls was almost five. Waiting with her mother at the checkout stand, she saw them, a circle of glistening white pearls in an pink foil box.

"Oh Mommy please, Mommy. Can I have them? Please, Mommy, please?"

Quickly the mother checked the back of the little foil box and then looked back in to the pleading blue eyes of her little girl's upturned face.

"A dollar ninety-five. That's almost $2.00. If you really want them, I'll think of some extra chores for you to do and in no time you can save enough money to buy them for yourself. Your birthdays only a week away and you might get another crisp dollar bill from Grandma."

As soon as Jenny got home she emptied her penny bank and counted out 17 pennies. After dinner, she did more than her share of chores and she went to the neighbor and asked if she could pick dandelions for ten cents. On her birthday, Grandma did give her another new dollar bill and at last she had enough money to buy the necklace.

Jenny loved her pearls. They made her feel dressed up and grown up. She wore them everywhere, Sunday school, kindergarten, even to bed. The only time she took them off was when she went swimming or had a bubble bath. Mother said if they got wet they might turn her neck green.

Jenny had a very loving daddy. Every night when she was ready for bed he would stop what he was doing and come upstairs to read her a story. One night as he finished the story, he asked Jenny,

"Do you love me?"

"Oh yes, Daddy. I love you."

"Then give me your pearls."

"Oh Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have my Princess, the white horse from my collection, the one with the pink tail. Remember Daddy? The one you gave me. She's my favorite."

"That's okay, Honey, Daddy loves you. Good Night." And he brushed her cheek with a kiss.

About a week later, after the story time, Jenny's daddy asked again, "Do you love me?"

"Daddy, you know I love you."

"Then give me your pearls."

"Oh Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have my baby doll. The brand new one I got for my birthday. She is beautiful and you can have the yellow blanket that matches her sleeper."

"That's okay. Sleep well. God bless you, little one. Daddy loves you."

And as always, he brushed her cheek with a gentle kiss.

A few nights later when her daddy came in, Jenny was sitting on her bed with her legs crossed in Indian style.

As he came close, he noticed her chin was trembling and one silent tear rolled down her cheek.

"What is it, Jenny? What's the matter?"

Jenny didn't say anything but lifted her little hand up to her daddy. And when she opened it there was her little pearl necklace. With a little quiver, she finally said, "Here, Daddy; this is for you."

With tears gathering in his own eyes, Jenny's daddy reached out with one hand to take the dime store necklace, and with the other hand he reached into his pocket and pulled out a blue velvet case with a strand of genuine pearls and gave them to Jenny. He had them all the time. He was just waiting for her to give up the dime store stuff so he could give her the genuine treasure.

So it is, with our Heavenly Father. He is waiting for us to give up the cheap things in our life so that he can give us the beautiful treasures.

Author Unknown

Shaking the Tears

2007-05-16T09:18:00.000-06:00

Worship. It happened this morning. I must confess my personal worship time has been growing small. I have been on the edge of tears about everything. I teared up at the mother/daughter banquet last week because after seating everyone I couldn't find a place for the girl and me. In the slightest shake the tears flow.

This morning as I met my living room floor I surrendered. Once again. It is something constant in my life. I realized that I had felt so guilty about having these emotions that I have not been bringing them to him. I just love his patience. I dropped it all. I left my hurt and my attitude. There was a song playing on the radio that was saying Sing with me, dance with me, cry with me....It is alright to cry and have emotion...Just do it with me. How I was trying to hide.

Then another song came on and I jumped up in order to worship him with my whole self. With tears streaming down my face his words fell...It's been a while...I missed you.

I missed him too.

Here is the song that made me stand to my feet. It was played for me. At this moment in life it speaks volumes.

When I see you I have strength to face this day. In your presence all my fears are washed away.

If you have a few minutes watch this and listen to the words.

Mom

2007-05-14T20:44:00.000-06:00

I love her. After being the mom of 5 children she still had love for one more. me. I am grateful to my mom and dad for choosing to love me and call me their own. I cannot even imagine life without them.

My mother kept me dressed to a T. Although it was her kind of T. I am serious ladies. She made me wear dresses to school and get this they had bells in them.

What was she thinking?

I finally understand. She wanted me to be beautiful and have the finest. In her mind frills are beautiful. We are so different. I think it would be weird if we were not.

In all my little girl party pictures you will find me in some of the laciest clothing. To this day I do not wear lace. That makes me smile.

My mom is amazing. She has taught me everything about love. There is no discrimination in her veins. She loves freely. Her life speaks love in motion. What a legacy she has. At this point in my mom an dad's life they are raising my 7 year old nephew. She is still mothering well past her mothering years.

It's good to be her daughter...

Randomness

2007-05-10T21:39:00.000-06:00

Jamie has tagged me with this interesting survey. I have to list 7 random things about myself and here is the catch you will to if I tag you.

Here goes.

7. One day out of the blue (when I was 5 years old) I realized that I had red hair and that all my siblings and parents had the darkest brown hair ever. I couldn't understand why so I posed the question to my mom. She, not thinking I could understand adoption so soon, told me that when I was in the belly she must have drank too much red kool-aid. I was so satisfied with the answer that I shared it with my teachers and all my classmates.

6. As a child I had a weird love for Campbell's Chicken noodle soup. It is all I wanted to eat. It is still a comfort food to this very day.

5. In the last week I felt the effects of drinking too much. At least that is what my dentist tells me. Laughing gas as she states is a great high. She is so funny. She even was hoping that some would leak out and give her a buzz.

4. In high school I participated in the "Sand Dance". It was our officer modern contest routine and we were SAND. We performed it at our Spring Show and all the boys had to take a double look because of our nude unitards. They thought we were dancing naked. Looking back it was pretty provocative but I had not a clue. It was modern and we were playing the part of sand...what can I say?

3. At youth camp I was known as the girl with all the hair. I am serious. I would walk past people and I would hear them refer to me as that. How could they help it. My hair was HUGE. No I don't think you understand....HUGE!!!

2. While in labor the first time I swore that Norman Bates was in my room. The week before I was on bed rest and I watched a marathon of Psycho. Why did I do that? When the drugs took effect Norman appeared. We still laugh about this and no I have not watched Psycho again.

Drum roll please....

1. (Amy you might get a laugh out of this one) In 8th grade Mike Maple asked me to "go" with him. Truth be told I think that Nathan Smith asked me for him. I said yes. Middle school romance at its finest. The next morning before school I did not stand next to him while waiting for the bell to ring. How dare me. What mistakes I made. That very day Nathan Smith came back to me and said that Mike wanted to break up. Why? He said I wasn't aggressive enough. At least that is the story I got. My relationship lasted one day and not a word was ever spoken. Later that year I "went" with Nathan Smith. *Laughing*

Tag you are it.

Why stop at seven people? If you want to do it then by all means. Post it on your blog and let me know that you are in. I am such a rule breaker.

Yellow screams BUY me

2007-05-10T11:36:00.000-06:00

In all the research that I have been doing about selling a house I have learned that the color yellow makes people want to buy. Can this be true? The tip is to put yellow potted flowers very close to the entry way door so that the prospective buyers feel the need to purchase. Today while browsing the aisles at Wal-mart I stopped over in the garden section and purchased two potted "yellow" flowers. Gerbera Daisies. I love them. Truly I will probably kill them and no one will want to buy because there are dead flower petals everywhere.

I will let you know how this goes. Do you have any house selling tips to share?

In other news...

Our resumes are ready to be sent. I have no idea where we are going to send them but we hope to send them somewhere by this weekend. We have not finished our informational cd but that is in the end stages. I ordered a picture to be sent with our resume and cd so it looks all kinds of "almost" professional.

Ernest's dad is an Assembly of God Pastor and what I remember most about his church is this phrase...

(He would say)God is good
(the people would say)All the time
(He would say)And all the time
(the people would say)God is good.

I love that. It is so true. God is good ALL the time!

The Road to the Waterpark

2007-05-06T20:57:00.000-06:00

What do you say when people ask? It has been a week since the world has known of our departure. Everyone is curious. Everyone would love to know where we are going and what we are planning. What we have to tell them is...We don't know. It has been some kind of week. For the most part I have been feeling pretty confident in the movement of God. It (the deep worry pit in my stomach) just strikes in the moments when the look on their face turns to dread and even a deep worry or sadness for me. Then there is the exact opposite of you are just flying on faith aren't you?

To not have answers is always hard for me. I am a want to know kind of girl. God is teaching me so much.

Can I interject to say this: I love my house. I have loved this house since our good friends Caleb and Reagan owned it. I couldn't even fathom that one day it would be mine. This afternoon was spent on the porch reminding God all the things I love about my home. For instance, the tile counter tops, the loft, my new back porch, surely not last but our garage. It has been the first time I have ever has a garage door opener. I was surprised at the tears that streamed down my cheeks. Lord you just gave this to me do I really have to give it back now?

Then I remembered this time while driving with our kids to Branson from Springfield. We were taking them to a Waterpark for the day. They were so stoked. I cannot remember their exact age but we are talking small (preschool). If you know anything about Branson then you know that you pass a strip with a hundred hotels and attractions. The water park was at the end of this strip. Our girl could hardly wait. It got to a point that every time she would see a pool in front of a hotel she would say "daddy can we just stop here?" "No honey this is not the park that we are going to" she would then reply "I don't care about the park because this pool is big and I want to play here." This went on until we came to the park. When we walked beyond the entrance and she beheld all that was before her you better believe that she was glad that she did not settle for the measly pool.

We learned a lot that day. Today God brought that memory back to me a hundred fold. Do you see where I am going?

I don't know when we will get to the 'water park'. The drive may be long. I do know that I will be there when I am in his will. I will be happy there. I cannot stop short even if it means giving up my pretty counter tops.

I have been emotional today. I guess I will have these days. If you are still reading this...wow...thanks.

So yes, we still know nothing. There are many hard moments but God is pressing through them to reveal his perfect will. I stand in awe of HIM.

This is the adventure I had been asking for...

Funny Grins in the Midst of Pain

2007-05-02T19:32:00.000-06:00

I am here. I do not really feel like me. Today has been packed with the treatment of drugs. Valium, Vicodin, and Penicillin have been taking over my brain. A throbbing pain has been present in my right bottom back tooth and today was the day. Root canal. Can I say pain. Let's just say that I do not like the feelings of the drugs. Ouch. Sorry some shooting pain just arrived and then fled. Thank God for the fleeing of pain.

My family is at church. I wanted to be there for our students tonight. I could barely walk when they left so I don't think I would have been much help.

Yesterday when I went in for my initial appointment they were laughing at me. Evidently on my chart I wrote that when my pain is intense is shoots to my right ear....except I wrote R ear. They thought I was explaining a shooting pain from my tooth to my rear. Oh My. I am out of sorts but that even made me laugh.

I feel the need to insert this now...*If this is not making much sense let's just chalk it up to the drugs*

I will let you all go on to the next blog. I will stay here with dizzy eyes and re runs of Everybody Loves Raymond. Ohhh...maybe a good time for DVR'd shows.

Let the loopiness continue.

Save the Sloth

2007-05-01T07:58:00.000-06:00

Go to Save the Sloth site and do their challenge. I dare you.

Today in Pictures

2007-04-30T14:43:00.000-06:00

We set out today to get some promotional pictures done. It wasn't great weather but still not too bad. What I know about the two of us is...we are goofy. My camera's battery died after only 9 shots. I should have checked that before we left. We captured these I think they will work for what we need.

"Crash"

2007-04-30T07:23:00.000-06:00

Okay, so my lovely wife has brought you up to date for the most part on what is going on in our lives. It has been some kind of week. It is crazy how much can change in 1 week. The one thing great about it is we see God's hand in it. I totally feel like Abram (Abraham) right now when God called him away without telling him where he was going.

I read a book recently by Erwin McManus called, The Barbarian Way. Throughout the book there was this really cool artwork that involved some rhinos. I kept wondering what it represented or if he just had a thing for rhinos. Towards the end of the book I received my answer.

He discussed the names of groups of various animals. For example, a group of whales is a pod. A group of vultures is a committee (interesting). And a group of rhinos is a crash. Rhinos can run very fast, especially for their size. When they get together they run full speed ahead. The only thing is that they can only see 30 ft. in front of them. So they run full speed not having a clue at what lies ahead. You may see where the name crash would then come into play.

As I was allowing my mind to wonder in thought it was like God said to me, "Here's your chance to be rhino!" We have no clue what lies ahead. Come August we have no idea where we will be living or what exactly we will be doing. All I know is that God is calling us to trust Him and run full speed ahead. May we crash into His perfect will for our lives.

To a place?

2007-04-29T13:44:00.000-06:00

Genesis 12:1&4
Now the Lord said to Abram, "Go forth from your country, and from your relatives and from your fathers house, to a land which I will show you"...So Abram went forth as the Lord had spoken to him.

This is the place where we are. Today we told our students that we are going to pursue this dream of speaking. It was not quite the time table that we were looking for but God's ways are not our ways. He determines our steps.

We will serve in our current position until the end of July and then the next couple will take over.

There are a lot of questions that we do not have answers to. It is scary yet it is exciting. I love exciting. I love adventures and this is sure to be one. There is a fight raging in the pit of my stomach over fear and faith.

At this point we are seeking a position with a student organization. We will see where God leads us. If you are a student organization and you want us by all means let us know. If it were only that easy.

This blog was created for this specific journey. To all my blog friends...I know that this is not the funny stuff you are looking for...sorry. I will be back with hopefully funny stuff later.

Sight Faith?

2007-04-29T06:36:00.000-06:00

Streams in the desert is a daily read for me. This morning was one to behold in our present minutes. I love God and how he reveals himself.

He woke me up with something to share.

The story was about Elijah and his regularness except for the way that he prayed. This is a story of faith and sight-faith cutting itself off from everything except God, with sight that looks and yet sees nothing. Yes, in spite of utterly hopeless results received from sight, this is a story of faith that continues "praying in prayer."

Praying in prayer. Good stuff.

Believing God.

God Happened!

2007-04-27T16:06:00.000-06:00

Whirlwind. That would be a good way to describe this week. A lot of change has happened and it is soon to be revealed. Soon enough I promise you will be in the know. I said this to bring in a very cool thing that happened on Wednesday.

God happened.

It was so good. He came in the form of crazy youth pastor guys. We shared with the Abilene Youth Coalition the "news" that we have. They got up from their seats circled around us and prayed. PRAYED. They laid their hands on us and one guy even knelt down and held onto Ernest's feet. In this group of men and women there is no pride for who is better or who is more liked. It about being there for one another and also for our common goal of reaching youth for God. Love was poured out.

They spoke words over us and to us. There was a point, when Craig was sharing to Ernest something that he felt God was speaking to him, that I looked at Ernest and saw his emotion overwhelm. We needed this. We needed God in the flesh and he sent these men and women to be there.

One thing we are sure of is we want to be in the presence of God. Always. We will be crazy in honor of him. We will follow him when others may think we are crazy.

It is all about him.

He is the orchestrator of all. I trust him.

What will the other moms think?

2007-04-25T21:10:00.000-06:00

The girl needs me to send in a recipe for a project that she is doing at school. She has reminded me a little over one hundred times today. To top it all off she requested that I send the recipe for my famous sugar cookies. Really? Out of all the wonderful meals I serve this is the one you want. I aim to please so I typed out this secret recipe.

I am almost positive this is for a mother's day recipe book. Once again I say...what will the other mothers think? Honesty has always been a strong point for me so I press on.

For your viewing pleasure I have posted my recipe below. You should try it at once.

Mom’s Famous Sugar Cookies

Instructions:
1. Get in car and drive to local grocery store
2. Get a cart and proceed to refrigerated section
3. Search high and low until you find the main ingredient
Pillsbury break-and-bake sugar cookies
4. Walk to cashier and make the purchase
5. Drive home
6. Walk into the kitchen
7. Follow directions on the back of the wrapper
8. Don’t forget to keep the box top
9. When done put on dryer rack and let the smell overwhelm the house
10. Let the family enjoy “mom’s” famous cookies

Dirty Dancing

2007-04-24T21:31:00.000-06:00

Sing it with me. "I've had the time of my life and I owe it all to you..." This song came on the radio this afternoon. It took me back to a place so distant it seemed unreal. When the movie Dirty Dancing came out I was in junior high. Everywhere I went people told me that I looked just like Jennifer Grey. It got to the point that I had a major distaste for those words. I did not really know what she looked like. I was not allowed to see the movie. Oh, I wanted to. I wanted to know who all these people were comparing me to.

One out of the ordinary day my sister-in-law allowed me to watch the movie. She sympathized with my pain and decided I could view this movie. I remember sitting really close to the TV screen taking in every expression that "Baby" made. Do I look like her? Why does everyone think I look like her?

She was the one that can we just say not the pretty one. I wanted to be the pretty dancer girl. Why couldn't I look like her? Looking back I did resemble "Baby" a lot. I had the short curly hair, sleek eyes, and a big nose. I will never forget the first day of freshmen year when Jason Cato said "Wow...your face finally grew into your noise." Ouch. To be honest I feel bad that I am even writing these words. Jennifer, if you somehow read this, I am sorry. I too had a big nose. I sympathize.

Back to reality. I began to think on how I worried over looking like "Baby"...some moments it really bothered me. Then my thoughts moved over my current life. Who am I worried that I look like?

A sweet familiar voice spoke over me. You are grown now. Not that girl. The worry is not about who you don't want to look like but it is in the WHO you do want to look like. You desire to look like me. Don't worry I know that. Truth is I needed to hear that.

He loves me even with my big nose. He loves me now and he loved me then.

Not only me but you too...

It would be stunning to be in a random aisle at the grocery store when someone would approach and say...You know who you look like...

Having fun with the kids

2007-04-23T22:12:00.000-06:00

Inspired to go green

2007-04-23T14:45:00.000-06:00

I have been inspired. If you want to read what has so greatly moved me you can read here and here.

Baby steps to going green. I have been a little convicted to do more for the environment. I will just admit right now that I do not recycle. I hear the gasps. My head is hanging in shame. No worries...I plan to start.

Today while driving to the grocery store the conviction hit strong. I remembered about the plastic shopping bags and what I could do. I did it. I bought some reusable totes to put groceries in. Let me tell you it was so much easier. I bought a good amount of groceries and then proceeded to the self checkout. I didn't want to bother the cashier with my long story of why I didn't want her to fill the plastic bags. As I was leaving the lady at the front stopped me and asked what I was doing. She thought I was stealing or something. I produced my receipt and she carefully looked over it and then let me go. Her words..."This is different, you know."

Here is where is gets good. (Can I say that?) It was a lot quicker putting the groceries in the car and also bringing them into the house. I didn't have 100 plastic bags to empty. It was just much simpler. I will be doing this from now on.

I purchased 2 collapsible containers at Wal-mart for 4.97 each. It felt good.

Tired? What do you think?

2007-04-22T21:20:00.000-06:00

I don't know what is wrong with me. I am in a weird mood. I need to laugh but it is just not there. A good conversation that is what I need. The only problem with that is I have no idea what to talk about. Do you ever feel like you are full of emotion but have no idea what the exact emotion is?

There is so much on my mind. My brain is going to explode due to massive thinking.

Website. We need a good one. Scratch that...we need a GREAT one.
Adoption. My heart is there the answer is not.
Grammar. I stink at it. Yes, I know that I do. I want to be better. Can I help it if I like the way certain punctuation looks?
Future. All I can say is...SCARY.
Dreams. Are they too big?
Photography. Could I pursue this as a small side thing?
Friends. I want some that live close.
Toothache. I need to get dental insurance or just plain go to the dentist.
Wedding cake. I could really use some right now.

You think those are random thoughts...read on.

The view. What would it be like to host the view? Would Rosie eat me alive? Yes! Elisabeth seems so fun. We could be friends.

What will I look like when I get old? Wrinkles?

I still wonder if I would be happy being a L&D nurse or a decorator or teacher or something else.

These thoughts have been devouring me. This week I had the opportunity to drive alone to San Antonio and back. A lot of thinking happened. I am tired and weak. I need to get alone with my Father.

As Yourself

2007-04-20T16:25:00.000-06:00

This is something that I recently wrote in my devo blog. I thought since I haven't been able to post, I would post this. Read and Enjoy.

Matthew 22:37-39

Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'

I have read this verse many times yet the other night something struck me afresh. To love God then Love people, that is what we teach. It is right. It is pure. I do believe that is the way to be Jesus to those around us. I know that the love has to come from God because let's just be honest do we really desire to love others. Especially others we don't know or even worse others that we don't like.

Here is where something jumped out as fresh. We are suppose to love our neighbor (others) the way that we love ourselves. Something occurred to me. What if we don't love ourselves? What if that is the biggest struggle in our daily life? It is more than true. If we have yet to love ourselves through the beauty of God's eyes then we cannot love another. We love ourselves when we are secure in the love from our heavenly father. When we learn him and see that what he made it good.

Here is what my brain has been throwing around. If I am secure in the Love of God...If I am secure in the Love of my Father God. Then I am free to love my friend. I can love her unconditionally because I am secure and I do not NEED her love back. I can stop searching for something to complete me. Guess what? It can stop being about me. It is all about My love for God and showing his love to her.

This may be nothing new to you. At this moment it is huge to me. I can dance in the love of my daddy God and be FREE to love. I know that to love others is hard. Do you see love for others evident in your life? I think it is a direct mark on us showing our love for our God.

I don't know about you, I want to love him much. More and more each day.

If you find yourself in the place of little love for yourself. Go to God. Ask him to reveal his love to you. Ask him to make himself huge in your life. Grab a bible, a Christian friend, and or your parent. Reach out. Run to HIM. He wants you to know him. I will go even farther to say, He wants you to see yourself the way that he does. Message me and I will pray for you.

How can we change the world? By giving out his LOVE.

Taste the Rainbow

2007-04-18T08:29:00.000-06:00

Picture It:
A family of four is sitting in the mall food court having some dip and dots ice cream and a few laughs. Here is a peek into our family conversation.

Boy: Eating Rainbow Dip and dots shares a taste with his sister.
Sister: Mmmm...that really does taste like a rainbow! (With much glee)
Mom: (curiously) How do you know what a rainbow tastes like?
Sister: DUH!,Mom. (with a sly smile) Skittles!...You know taste the Rainbow.
All Four: Laughter Erupts

They bring such joy to my heart.

Do you have any cute stories you would like to share? I would love to hear.

Beautiful Faith

2007-04-17T09:32:00.000-06:00

In case you haven't heard. Heather over at Especially Heather has been diagnosed with some hard health issues. She is a believer and is working through them with beauty. I believe it has been 8 days since she found out. Boomama is having a fundraiser for Heather. I encourage you to participate. She is asking for donations no smaller than $1. You should go visit Heather's site. She is an amazing picture of faith beauty. Many tears have been shed on their laptops this week over the hurt of this sweet lady.

T-shirts + Numbers= COOL

2007-04-16T20:57:00.000-06:00

To have a boy in the house. Noise. Joyful noise. There are many things I love about my boy. One thing for sure is his clothing choice. You will usually find him wearing some sort of T-shirt with a giant number on the back. He feels so cool in his team shirt. My boy is also the one wearing underarmour to school. Who am I to tell him that his ribs are sticking out of his small frame. If I told him, I doubt that he would care.

Friday was our first baseball game of the season. My boy had a great night. He was four for four. For those of you who don't know what that means. No worries. I will share my new found knowledge. He was up to bat 4 times and got on base 4 times. Our team ended with a score of 3 and yep our boy scored all 3 runs.

Tonight was the second game. We are 4 games behind everyone else due to weather complications. We were hoping for another awesome game. It was not so. The boy struck out 3 times. Yesterday I took him to the field for batting practice and for some reason he missed a lot of balls. In short he lost his confidence. I am sad for him. Needless to say, after the game, the coach (Ernest) kept him late. After a good pep talk from dad he was able to shake his feelings and hit. Phew. I hope he can do that tomorrow. I just cannot handle him leaving the plate with a long face. I am all about smiles.

Bathing Suit?

2007-04-13T21:25:00.000-06:00

This is beginning to be a real fiasco. I cannot find a suit that I love. I like the ones that reside in my bottom drawer. I like some that I have seen in the many stores I have browsed. But it is true love that I am looking for. Does anyone share my feeling?

I decided to cruise the web in search of love and I found some great options. After sharing my fun news with Ernest we decided that I needed to look a little farther. The ones that twinkled my eye cost far more than a pretty penny. Why do these little things cost so much? I found one that could very possibly be the love of my bathing suit life but the tag brought me back to reality. Together it would cost $160! That is more than I paid for my CHI iron. I am just not willing to pay that much.

What are your thoughts on suits? Am I the only woman out there who needs to feel love for her bathing suit?

This would be a great time to stop and comment. I know you come and visit me so stop by and say Hi.

Dust

2007-04-11T20:51:00.000-06:00

My heart is flooded with emotion. Tonight at our youth service Ernest preached about how a warrior finds his assignment. We have been going over "war" issues getting our students prepared to invade Abilene with Christ. In one part of the service Ernest used a video by Rod Bell titled dust. In watching this video, I felt like God himself was teaching directly to my heart. If you want to see a clip you can click here.

The dust comes in this way. In bible times when a Talmid (disciple) would follow their Rabbi (teacher) it was said that they would be covered in dust. The dust of their Rabbi. Do you get it? They were following so close to every move that the actual dust from his movement would dispense on them. To follow that close...

Another thought from tonight:
What is the difference between a soldier and a civilian? Right now, at this very moment, there are soldiers fighting in a war for freedom. Right now, at this very moment, I am a civilian relaxing on my couch. In the spiritual war am I a soldier or a civilian? It is scary to step out on to the battle zone. Just like Peter stepped out of the boat we must remove ourselves from the couch put the battle gear on and report for duty.

There is so much that I want to share with you. At this time I cannot. To be honest, I do not even know all of what is about to take place. It is a scary moment. God you are so in control and I am good with that. Amaze me, Lord. I beg to stay close to you. I desire nothing more than to be covered in the dust kicked up by your heels.

Here I am reporting for duty...

The Best Friday Night

2007-04-09T13:28:00.000-06:00

It was the best Friday night ever. My friend Kerrie had talked me into going to wait for her boyfriend, Cody, to come out of the field house. A lot of girls waited at the field house for their boyfriends so it seemed like no big deal. Here I was dressed in my drill team warm-ups with field make-up that could wound the weak eyed. I knew I was really there to see Ernest. We had been talking for a while but I was just now truly interested in this guy. Cody and Ernest were best friends so it was a sure bet they would come out together. It seemed like we waited forever. I have no idea what Kerrie and I talked about to pass the time. I do however remember sitting past all the other girls who had got there earlier than we did. There was one girl in particular that I noticed...Ernest's ex-girlfriend. It was a rumor that she wanted to get back together with him so my heart began to wonder if he would stop and talk to her and if so will he even notice that I am sitting back here (not waiting for him...yea right).

I had never watched someone so intently. There they came. Ernest and Cody were walking towards this large group. They were talking and laughing. It seemed as though they had not a care in the world. Friday nights for football players was just short of heaven. The moment was approaching. He walked right past her as if he didn't even know she was there. I can still feel the smile in my face. Soon enough they reached us and without saying a word Ernest scooped me up over his shoulder and carried me off to the parking lot. In that moment I was chosen. That is a feeling I will remember for the rest of my days. I have no clue what the football score was. I don't remember him putting me down or even talking that night. None of that stuff mattered to me. I was happy and full. That night went down in my memory as one of the best nights ever.

Why? It was because I was chosen and it was done in a big way.

Here's my spin.

You may be sitting cross legged in a field of other girls. They are beautiful, talented, funny, and in your mind more than you could ever be. It may feel like your day to be chosen will never come. Picture yourself there. The love of your life comes out and he is searching for his beloved. He not only stops at you but he scoops you up in his big strong arms and declares you as His very own. The truth is you have already been chosen. The search can be over. Jesus desires to be your one true love. He is waiting in that place wanting to scoop you up and lavish his love on you. He wants to fill your heart with the warmness of forever. His love is true. He sees you and he knows your hurts. Let him come to your rescue. Call out to him. Ask him to scoop you up and ask that you would be able to feel his arms around you. His is a love like no other...nothing can compare. Keep your eyes fixed on him. There he is walking towards you. Do you see him?

He loves you...

He chooses you...

This particular post is originally from my devo blog for girls. This is a snippet of what I shared while in Mississippi and felt lead to now share it with you. Enjoy.