Still Camping

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.

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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?

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

"You need to get your feet in some shoes"

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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?

"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

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

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.

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

House For Sale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Today in Pictures

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"

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?

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?

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!

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?

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

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

Inspired to go green

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?

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

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

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

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

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?

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

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

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.

Just as you say...

"He is not here; He has risen, just as He said."
Matthew 28:6


I love this verse. It speaks truth. He is not here and it happened just like he said it would.

Just as he said. When will the the depth of my heart understand this. I trust him. I love him. I have found that his words roll in my head and if I am not careful the evil one can take them captive and withhold them from me. He will always do everything JUST AS HE SAID he would. Always. I stress over this mostly when my future is in the mix. The words that have been spoken to my heart will be, why, because he said so.

I am scared to believe him for the dreams of my heart. I talk with girls about this to no end. Yet I find myself here.

I know you are the ultimate dream giver. I choose to believe you and follow you. You will live out things just as you said. I am here for the ride.

The Beautiful Egg

Thank you, Martha Stewart, for this great idea. The kids had a great time decorating these eggs. They are beautiful and different than anything we have ever done. They were so easy. Try it and let me know how it goes. Here is what you would need for this project: old ties, white vinegar, old white sheet or muslin, and twist ties. We used some of Ernest's better ties since he does not have to wear them to church anymore. I think he felt kind of liberated.

I feel like I should be writing something very profound about Easter. Sorry...maybe tomorrow.

One Snowy Spring Day

Such a strange happening. Snow. I love it. I wanted to share some pictures of our fun day. It was pretty normal all expect we had some errands to run and we did that in our new drive. It is so pretty and so much of a blessing. I have a car that runs people...and this one has leather seats. The last car purchase we made was 9 years ago. We have faithfully been driving the Toyota for all this time. We are so thankful to you Corolla. We are also thankful that you will continue to be our second "around this town" car. Ernest traded in his beloved truck, after much prayer! It has been due for expensive work and we thought it would be smarter to trade it and collect our pennies.

Good days. Priceless.

Baseball Caps and Peanut Shells

I love the sight of this. Our (their) beloved Astros are back in season. The TV will be tuned in to the game until the end of their season. I like the Astros. I like baseball. I just don't want to watch it all the time. My boys do. As soon as the boy stepped out of the shower he ran to the kitchen pantry got the (baseball) peanuts and his ball cap and happily joined dad on the couch. As I was walking down from the loft I saw them together. I had to run back and grab the camera to get this shot. I will watch the Astros for the rest of my days if it will bring back this view.

The sun rises and then it sets

How fitting was it that on the plane ride back to Abilene the sun was just setting...

God's romance never ceases to amaze me!

Separated to Serve

The tag line at the Bible college where we went reads like this, "Enter to Learn, Separated to Serve", it couldn't be more true.

This weekend I was privileged to spend some time with people that I have served with in the past, not present, but the ever distant past. I miss them to say the least.

In one place it seemed that all areas of ministry past were present. It is hard to wrap my brain around it. My former youth pastor's wife and dear friend, Laurel, A friend that I worked on staff with in Springfield, Kim, and Marice who just recently left our ministry here in Abilene to start a church with her husband. Life collided and God brought forth a harvest.

In coming home from this trip I feel more grown.

I was talking with Laurel and the flow of conversation was so easy. When I left Houston, Texas and Cornerstone Baptist Church, I thought my life would change. I did not know that it would change to this extent. I think back to those days and my faith was just sprouting. I would have been so overwhelmed if God showed me the picture of life now, without all the people that I loved so much. I fear that if I could only have seen a picture I could not have followed through. It was a process I had to learn step by step. Today Laurel is a Pastor's wife in Alabama. I watched as her ladies loved on her with tears streaming down my face. She is in God's will and so am I...separated to serve. Our loss for his greater good. She sent me an e-mail this morning and said that in Heaven our mansions will be next door and our windows will be open so we can chat all day. That would be great fun.

Working and going to school in Springfield was a great time in life. It had great ups and great downs. We learned so much working on staff for the first time. The fact that someone even wanted to hire us was just beyond our imagination. God is good. Seeing Kim and her sweet daughter Jordan brought back all those first years. Jordan was in our junior high youth and now she is a college freshmen. She is a beautiful young lady.

Marcie, is reading this, so I don't want to be too mushy. She just left Abilene a few months ago, 3 to be exact. I miss her daily. I am learning to do life without her around. She was my shopping buddy and after church communication (our husbands usually lock up the buildings). I watched her and her husband, Sean, in their church on Sunday and as they were doing their thing I realized...separated to serve. How my heart misses that crazy girl.

God's way is beautiful and so mysterious. He called us each to do something different and even in different places and to different people. I will even go as far as to say with different kinds of music. But he does it so that He, himself, will be shown to all the world. In God's plan there are time when we have to separate to follow Him. To leave everything else behind and go to a place... It hurts but it is good.

It was good to see old friends. I had been asking God to bring some girlfriends my way and he did. I even found humor in one way he answered that prayer. Every time I would pray it I would find myself getting all kinds of friend requests on myspace...He thinks he is so funny. okay so he is.

Thank you Lord for this weekend with friends. As Sharon Hoffman, said to me, "Sweetie, I think we learn more on these trips than we teach." God was good to me and taught me new things moment by moment.

Me with Laurel

What an honor to be pictured with these other speakers