Thursday, October 11, 2007

Certain Individuals.

Several years ago now.... a man came into our lives. Little did we know at the time how God would continue to use him and bind us together especially through prayer. Yesterday... the two of us were emailing a little back and forth. I can still hear his voice as if he were sitting right in front of me. When I look back over the time we've known each other.... Wow... Can God's hand been seen all over the moments...... Our relationship started off a little rocky.... but it is on solid ground because of Christ alone. He has been such a tremendous support and encouragement. He is one of the ways we personally experience the love of God. He has shared valleys and mountaintops and the in-between with us and us with him. Thank You Lord for the gift of this man.

Several of the Titus 2 women in my life were at dinner last night. I was fortunate to have sweet conversations with a few of them. One of them in particular... we are so connected through prayer that words are almost not necessary at times. When you spend time, not watching the clock, really praying.... you can truly get to know someones heart. She doesn't just talk the talk.... you ought to see her walk.... because she wants individuals to truly know her Savior... and Lord. She makes me want to be a better Christ-follower... not because of her... but because of Christ in her.... Another one of the women asked for my help with some thing. She then complimented my hair. Oh, it's no question Tuesday was a bad hair day.... She had seen me then too... She also knows that I truly don't give a flip about my hair. It's definitely a way she makes me laugh.... and in her own way encourages me to be me no matter what anyone else says... Thank you Lord for these Titus 2 women......

There's another man whom we've known off and on for a few years. We've gotten to know him better here more recently... life is funny like that at times. Last night he put his arm around me and hugged me tight. We had been working together on a helping some different individuals. What's sweet about the fact that he hugged me like he did is..... I've told him before he reminds me of daddy in certain ways... He loved him too. His affection for me, hubby and the boys extends out of that but is now also able to stand on its own. Daddy gave great hugs. G's are priceless as well.... they are an extension of his love for Him... and His for me/us... Thank You Lord for him...

One of the most precious couples we've ever known weren't there last night. G called to check in on them.. They are both sick... They are in their 90's. She loves to tell me how handsome my hubby is... She knows it cracks me up. One day I went to visit her when she was in the hospital... As I leaned over the bed to kiss her on the check like I always do.... she said to me, "Oh, you're here but where is that preacher man of yours. He is just so handsome ya know." and then she winked at me. Oh, thank You Lord for their example of "to death due us part."..... for how when they are able... they are at the physical church building helping out in whatever ways they can.

There are so many others that come to my mind at moment... Yet, I'll close this one with her. She is the wife of G. Our connection is just as deep and tender. Last night as I told her he had already gone home... it gave us the opportunity to talk a bit.. Her sweet tears as she talked about learning more about real worship..... about the heart of another dear precious man.... who leads like You would have him to.... Her heart was clearly on her sleeve... Her love for You... is so encouraging... The way she introduces other women to prayer groups in homes.... Oh, she definitely another Titus 2 woman... and I know she doesn't even truly realize it about herself. Thank You Lord for her incredible humility....

Certain individuals....

Who do you need to thank God for today in your own life?

And have you told them lately (or ever) the impact they've had on the moments in your dash?

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Local Church Body. Need.

I know so many want to hear John's final sermon to us this Sunday, October 14th.

Given the fact that we are only having one service at 10:00 a.m.... We need loving and caring individuals in the preschool area.

Please ask God to help guide you as to where you need to be during the service.

If God so directs you, please call the church office and ask for Cassie.

Thank you.

Keep praying.........

Old Car. New Car.

First a correction must be made. The car is not the same age as Travman - that's hubby's car. This particular one is a 91 model. Yes, I said 91. That makes it an old car to most.... It makes it the same age as Austin.

My mother and I traveled to Boerne, Texas on that Friday. Hubby and the boys could not travel there until that Saturday. Obviously that meant they had to come in one of the cars. A little bit of anxiety was being had among the boys I must admit. There was their dad's car without air-conditioning for a several hundred mile trip where they would have to ride with the windows down... and it was hot outside..... or the car that almost did not pass inspection just a couple of weekends ago. Yet, what is... is what is.... It was going to be one or the other.

Mom and I were talking on that Friday. Somehow I had forgotten to mention to her about the tires on her car needing to be replaced. She gave her son-in-law permission to get four new ones. He did on that Saturday morn. And talk about a difference with the car......

Hubby and the boys drove the car to Boerne and then back that following Monday night. Each time the boys commenting about how great the car is now. Not just that it got them from this point to that point but that it was now a smooth ride. Yes, tires do make such a difference in the overall feel and ride..... especially when it is a long one. And the air-conditioner does work great.

It is the vehicle I drive the most... funny enough? I am enjoying driving it now. Oh sure the wiring is still a little goofy..... and I'll never forget the day I had to call for help. Hubby was in the big city all day. It was Healthy Kids meal day.... so that meant I had food with me. The car was deader than a doorknob. Doug came and prayed over the car..... Actually, I think he was doing that to make me laugh... It started and I went on about my Father's business. Good times. Seriously.

It may be an old car... but in many ways it is like new. We are thankful for it and the places it helps us get... and for those who travel in it with us....

Old car. New Car. Which are you more like?

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

Hold My Hand. Walk With Me.

Today is Tuesday... As I thought about what today's parenting class was going to hold.... Little did I truly know. It kept coming to me to just be prepare to share what was laid out for me to.

As I walked back up the stairs from getting a drink out of the machine, she walked up to me and took my hand. She said to me, "Camey? I am suppose to give this to you for your class. When the Spirit moves you to - read it aloud." I hugged her and thanked her and she walked on into the class on "Praying to Make a Difference" that she is a part of. I walked down the hall just a few steps and into the classroom.

As class was getting about ready to wrap-up, I knew it was time to read what she had given me. As I started reading it..... tears flowed from the eyes of several of the women in the group. I also shared about this particular Titus 2 woman in my life. She is one of our neighbors as well. We spend a good amount of time visiting together in the grass that connects us. I had asked her to specifically be praying for the women. She has been and will continue to.

After classes were over, we all headed downstairs for lunch together. I was quickly asked to sit at a table where there was no room for any of the women in my class to sit with me. I was not a hostess at this particular event so I graciously did what was asked of me. Then... I saw her table...... Ahhhhhh.....

I walked over to where she was at and introduced her to one of the women in my class. They were sitting right beside of each other. She was one of the ones who had the most tears while I had been reading. I quickly walked away. They had already introduced themselves to each other without knowing who the other was. This definitely changed the course of their conversation.

When the lunch was over, I was in the kitchen with her. She was in need of plastic wrap to cover her dish back up. Being that I know the kitchen at the church like the back of my own hand.... it was natural for me to do that for her. I shared with her about the fact that I talk about having Titus 2 women in my life in the parenting class especially. Today, she definitely made a difference to the women in the class as well as to me. I have no doubt it was through much prayer.

She had tears streaming down her face as she hugged me. She was unaware until today that I thought of her in that way. They haven't been our neighbors long and yet we've developed such a sweet and tender bond. Funny enough? When she first met me, she said, "Oh, you're the daughter of the widow we're building our house next to." Little did we know then either......

Hold my hand. Walk with me. Listen as He speaks to you.

Other Answers. Various Topics.

1) Dinner on the grounds is when the local body all come together and share food and fellowship outside. Yes, weather permitting of course. That is one of the reasons for the big blue tent. We are expecting 1,000 plus.

2) The big blue tent is also being used for the Fall Festival. There will be no AWANAS that night.

3) Yes, Brother G and I are in-charge of the Cake Walk..... hence our name on the top of the sign-up sheet. Please don't make us beg. It won't be pretty.

4) No. My mother is not attending the Widows' Banquet. She'll be with her boyfriend on a date.

5) Hubby and I go on at least one date a week. We kind of like each other too ya know.

6) Are all our neighbors 80 years-old? No.. Just the ones who were home when the limbs fell.

7) Yes. I do still write poetry. No, none of it has been published recently except for here. I'm good with that.

8) Austin's toe is still healing. It is okay for him to wear flip-flops to the physical church building.

9) Yes. I was wearing a skirt on Sunday morning. Not saying that's going to become a norm.... lol

10) Laughter is a gift.

Monday, October 8, 2007

Fallen Limbs.

Earlier this evening, Parker and Travis called me outside to the side of the house. The wind was blowing and they had heard a limb break. They wanted to show me immediately. I told them there was nothing I could do about it at the moment.... and their daddy wasn't due home until dark and long after they were to be in bed.

A little bit later.. I told Parker and Travis to get busy with getting ready to go back to school tomorrow. A couple of minutes later.... out pops Park.... literally shaking. He had heard a loud thump on the roof above where he was taking a shower. It caused the shower itself to shake. He was scared.... Shhhhhhhhh

Well, just so you know... I might do a lot of crazy things but climbing on a roof top isn't on my list when I'm the only adult around. And as of yet.... Austin doesn't have any real experience with this sort of thing... So? What was I to do? Call one of our 80 year-old neighbors to climb on the roof? I don't think so..... I called the only ones who made any sense to call... (No, not the fire department. The get enough calls from the other neighbors ya know... Maybe even you....)

He answered the phone and said, "Yeeeeeessssss????" When I asked if he was available to come over... he said to her, "Am I ... are we available to come over?" I then explained why I was asking and they were over in a flash.... All five of them. Each one ready to do whatever was needed.

He climbed on the roof and had half of the tree coming down on the ground. Fortunately, no real damage to the roof or the gutter. It didn't even take 10 minutes tops. There was laughter and Parker even showed off his new glasses. There were hugs and the offer to help more if needed tomorrow.

Fallen limbs.... It is amazing how quickly they can happen. How the wind can blow on them and cause them to break. Yet, what is even more awe inspiring can be friendships. And the shade they can provide and the laughter that can be had at a moment's notice.

Motherhood. Laughter Abounds.

The younger boys are off school today. Austin did not have to work. Brother G is gone all day. Parker's glasses were ready to be picked up. We traveled into town to pick them up and decided to make it even more worth while. What's a mother to do? We went running errands of course. When you live in the country... you've got to use time in town wisely.

Parker and his mom were waiting in the chairs closest to the counter at the eye doctor's office. The same young woman that had helped us last week... walked up and said, "Parker? You ready to get your glasses?" He said, "You bet." He just smiled at her and then he looked at me grinning from ear to ear. And the glasses look like they were made for Parker.... they are a perfect fit.

Austin has worked really hard at his job at the little store in the highly secure gated community. He decided to buy his mom and two younger brothers lunch today. In the same shopping center as the eye doctor is a restaurant we all enjoy going to together. The look on his face was priceless as he handed the woman behind the counter the money. Lunch tasted especially sweeter than usual.

As the four of us were sitting in the booth eating... there was music playing. I couldn't help but notice that Travman and Park both kept dancing in their seats.... tapping the table to the beat like it was a drum. They even knew some of the words.... Austin kept giving me this funny look. It struck me... I was in fact doing the same thing...... Oh my.... It was music from the 80's.....

Motherhood is a funny thing at times. For I couldn't help but laugh when I realized it.... for they were songs I used to hear at the skating rink on Friday and Saturday nights when I was in junior high. And now when I hear them.... I won't simply remember "Couple Skate Only"....... I'll be reminded of motherhood and the incredible gift of each one of them.

And I will laugh... We all had stuff stuck in our teeth.

Sunday, October 7, 2007

Pressing On.

There are times in life when one thing comes to an end.... and another season begins.
Mixed emotions are wrapped in smiles, and tears flood our hearts and minds.
Yet, somewhere between, there is the smell of excitement for the future..... now.
Of reaching toward the goal, pressing on.
For only in Him can it be obtained.

Lord, we know You are with us. May You alone continue to guide every step.
And when we are caught in the middle, may we not remain there for long...
Before Your hand takes ours and helps us along.
May we completely surrender to Your will alone.
And put one foot in front of another in deep faith
Even if we cannot see the next moment clearly.
For in You alone... is the reason for every breath.

Answers. Local Body.

1) Regular schedule today.... Three services and two Bible study hours.

2) Next Sunday - One service and dinner (lunch) on the grounds after. (Yes, that is one of the reasons for the big tent.)

Don't come because of someone leaving. Come because of Him.

Keep praying.

Saturday, October 6, 2007

Last Chair. First.

With permission... I share the following story....

This week was incredibly tough for a certain musician we know and love. Music, notes, sounds, rhythms.... are so much a part of his very being. In many ways, it is like breathing for him. It comes so naturally and yet he still practices daily.

He was out-of-town for a few days and had not taken his trumpet with him due to the circumstances. Although... it would have actually been quite welcome. His practice time had been next to none when it came time for the chair test. Much to his disappointment, he received last chair out of five. He played the notes too quickly.

He shared with his two biggest fans about what he felt like was his failure. Just the week before he had been first chair and had gotten to perform in front of a large crowd with cheers and applause. His pride.. his ego... shot down. He was angry. He was mad at himself. And completely disappointed. And then......

His two biggest fans reminded him about the fact that his being first chair more often than not... means that the others behind him do not know what it is like to be in his shoes. To be able to say, "I'm first chair." or "I played before a large crowd with cheers and applause." How they must feel angry, mad at themselves, and completely disappointed. Their pride and egos shot down.

He listened carefully and absorbed the word being spoken into his life... his heart.... his breathing.... While there is nothing wrong with wanting to be first chair... there is something wrong when one cannot be happy for others they call friends because they are so engulfed in their loss. For when individuals remember it takes more than one when playing in a band..... their loss is another person's gain.... and the band can play on... at times even better to a large crowd with cheers and applause... or especially for an audience of One.

He ended up realizing the error of his way and has gotten himself right. His two biggest fans even more so proud of him now than all the times he has been first chair. For there are lessons learned from being last that are beyond priceless.......

Sometimes we need our eyes to be wide open so that we may truly see.


Thanks Travis for allowing your story to be shared.

Friday, October 5, 2007

Interruptions Part II

(Yet, there was this nudge inside of me that said, "Just say 'no'.") I did..... say no....

Today is Friday... This morning, the phone rang... Brother G and his wife were called to help someone... Someone with a real need. As it turns out... it not only helped this individual but it answered some questions for us as well.... Answers that will be used as we seek to minister to others....

We used the fact that we were close to the Hrt Ctr and stopped to visit with HB. His feet looked awful and he kept rubbing them together..... I offered to put lotion on them since I knew he couldn't reach them. As I was in the restroom getting the lotion.... it hit me... When I came back out with it... I looked at HB straight in the eyes... I asked him if he would prefer Brother G to do it for him instead of me... He did... It was sweet and tender as he got down on his knees to tend to this precious man's feet... He had spent countless hours doing that for dad.... Sweet memories..... We talked for a bit longer... As we were getting ready to leave... hugs and kisses as usual... except this time... HB asked me to pray. One thing he knows about me... I will not pray certain ways unless I am convicted to.... He cried while I prayed and just squeezed my hand. Today is his wife's birthday... This was the first time in 2 and a half weeks she has not been at the Hrt Ctr by 7:00 a.m. She was going to be there shortly after we left..... By this time HB had already had lunch...

We hadn't been home long this afternoon... when the phone rang again. Brother G is on his way back to another city we were at earlier today.... Parker is home from school now... Travis will be before long.... Austin needs to be picked up from the little store at 5:00..... And dinner will be ready at 5:30..... it's only been on the stove since 6:00 a.m. after all...

Funny enough? That nudge was right... I did need to say no. Ah... THAT VOICE....

What needs to be interrupted in your life this moment?

Words. Hearts. Search. Action.

Every week, Parker, has various things he is required to do with his spelling words. This week part of the assignment included making a word search for the following words:

  1. beautiful
  2. correction
  3. factors
  4. lately
  5. peaceful
  6. spotless
  7. vacation
  8. business
  9. current
  10. grid
  11. loveable
  12. punishment
  13. suddenly
  14. weather
  15. coastal
  16. education
  17. happiness
  18. ocean
  19. reachable
  20. tides

As I was looking over the words.... various things came to my mind with each one. Some that will actually require action now. Thank you Mrs. Willingham.

What about you?

Thursday, October 4, 2007

Eyes. Ears. Feet. Hands.

This morning Parker had an eye doctor appointment. I drove to the school to pick him up. We had the most in-depth fascinating conversation as we drove into town. To say that he makes me think is putting it mildly.... He may only be nine.. but he can make his mamma's head spin due to his wisdom and knowledge..... most importantly... his love for God and therefore, others.

While we were at the eye doctor, each one who was with us took time to explain what they were doing and why. They could tell that he was truly interested in learning. I could tell, as could they..... he was paying very close attention to what they were saying. For the most part, he could repeat the information back - if you were to ask him. Not just for the sake of repeating it but because he had truly grasped it.

After it was determined that he, in fact, does need glasses.... we walked over to where the frames were kept. He only had to try on two pairs before we found the ones that truly looked like they belong as a part of Parker. Remember... the boy does have auburn hair... (shhhh it's also red.) He then said, "One reason why I am excited about having glasses is that I won't have to sit in the front of the class to see the board. Someone else who needs it more than I do can have that spot. I'll gladly sit in the back." He thanked the young woman who had been helping us and told her he looked forward to seeing her again when it was time to pick up his glasses. She just smiled at him.... and then at me.

Parker's dad and I had told him this morning not to take a lunch to school today. We weren't sure he would be returning to school based off what he might need done at the appointment. So, when we were finished and he was able to return to school after all.... we decided to go on a quick lunch date first. We went to the place we like to go together and ordered our food. He looked at me and took our cups... He then said, "Mom? What can I get you to drink?" He proceeded to get my drink and his along with putting the straw in each one, and also getting napkins and ketchup. He told me to go ahead and sit down.... He then offered to pray and made sure to include those who had just helped him at the eye doctor's office to be able to see better while he was holding his mother's hand.

When I walked Parker back into the school and had taken care of business in the office.... we started down the hallway.... he was going to go one direction.. and I another.... He stopped.. and walked back to me and kissed me on the lips right there in the middle of the main entrance.

As I sit here with the quiet of the house... just the slight hum of hubby's laptop computer.... I cannot help but be beyond thankful.... for some of what Parker and I were talking about on the way to the eye doctor appointment was.....

It is important to hide Scripture in your heart... and let it permeate your life.

The Word is Alive...... Where do you need to be eyes, ears, feet and hands?

Liquid Living.

Last night found me in my usual spot in the foyer of the hospital. There were bodies yet again all around. Coming and going.... some asking for directions to the area of speciality they were needing. Others.... walking with their heads down not wanting to be known and yet.... wanting to be understood. The seen and the unseen alike.....

In through the main doors walked a woman that I consider a dear friend. She also happens to be in the parenting class on Tuesday mornings. We immediately walked up to one another and hugged. The look on her face - no price tag could do justice on. She shared with me that she went home after the class and spent an hour with her husband talking about all she learned. He happened to be home... they were alone to actually talk..... I don't believe in coincidences. Neither do they. She was about to bust. She was on fire. And frankly.... it was pouring out into my own life and that of another sweet friend who was with her.... No doubt it will be poured out into the lives of their children..... and whomever else He would have her share with. Taking what is taught and actually making it a part of our lives..... our daily lives....

There's this man who I talk with on a regular basis while at the hospital on Wednesday nights. Last night was no different... And yet it was.... He had looked up the church my cousin was a part of. The church had a picture of him along with the information about the visitation and the service on their website. It was a small part of the main page.... It spoke volumes to this man in ways that I am not sure he fully understands yet... I pray one day soon - it will pour out from his life into that of others... Others he has contact with every Wednesday night especially.

One of the Titus 2 women in my life asked me to teach a marriage class in the spring. Several individuals have been asking me about that for a while now. Especially some of those in the parenting class.... I smiled deeply and had to laugh. For one thing He has been pouring into my heart lately, as He so often does over various seasons, is the reminder that while we can put things on our calendar....... only He truly knows what tomorrow holds... His timing.... His plans...

Liquid living..... Pouring out what He pours in... How full or empty is your jar?

Wednesday, October 3, 2007

That Voice.

There's a voice that for over thirteen years now I've had the pleasure and privilege of loving...

Ummm that voice I just heard... If I wasn't looking directly at him... I might not have realized it was Travis I was hearing speaking to me.

There is a message in there about HIS voice... What is HE saying to you?

TURN DOWN THE NOISE!

What's a parent to do??? Well, I turned it down of course...

Hey, Juls? Your Ain't Nothing But A Hound Dog got me in the doghouse with Austin.

Teenagers. Whatever happened to my...... space...... again anyways?

Bwwwaahhhhaaa

On THAT Subject.. My Answer.

It is not my intent to act as if nothing significant is happening with our local church body.

It is my intent and firm belief however that what is needed now is prayer and a real sense of thanksgiving for seasons of life.... for the individuals who are a part of them in ways at times not completely understood.

For Faith.... Hope... Love.... to breath alive in each of us.... and out to others.....

That is my answer.

Grace to you.....

City Lights. Dark Sky. Worship.

The city lights were bright last night as we headed into the big city to see HB. He is back at the Heart Ctr.

When we first arrived, HB was a little busy. E, the man taking care of him for the night, started telling us what all was happening to HB. He hadn't gotten far when he suddenly said, "You are a daughter right?" We told him that we are like family as well as hubby being one of his pastors. He walked into HB's room and said, "D & Camey are here. Is it okay if I tell them about you?" H said, "You bet." He came back out and continued to share. We walked down to the family waiting room where we stayed until E came to get us.

Upon walking into HB's room, I went up to his bed... leaned over and kissed him on the check. He grabbed my arm and then my hand and said, "Man, I've missed you two." I continued to hold his hand while E was doing various things to him. We listened as HB talked. He knew why we hadn't been around and told us how sorry he was for the loss of Dennis. We then sat down beside his bed.... hubby on one side... myself on the other... We had just missed his precious wife.

We visited with HB for a good while. Then, as we were getting ready to leave.... we held hands and started praying together. E walked into the room and stood by the door as we were praying. When hubby said, "Amen." - E said it too. E is an Aggie... HB is too.... Life is funny at times even when they are serious. Hubby and I each hugged HB and kissed him on the forehead. And of course, "I love you." was said amongst us. Like I've said before..... we do not agree with HB on every single subject and yet there is a love so deep that it can only be explained because of HIM.

As we started on the way home..... soon the city lights were gone and there was nothing but dark sky... That's what happens when you live in the country.... Hubby and I talked some and then started listening to the radio. Every now and then..... there were lights..... Yet, mostly darkness.... Funny how the sky can go from being various shades of blues, whites, yellows..... and then blacks... grays..... Hmmmmm...

As we drove the hour back home..... We worshipped. We sang. We praised God.... For even when there is rain that falls down on our lives.... there is this hope that surpasses any understanding. There is this peace that no matter what the next moment holds..... He holds it all in His hands.

Like Pastor Mike said on Monday during Dennis' celebration service.... Faith. Hope. Love.

Where do you stand with each of these? Are they evident in the moments of your life?

And do you know His Amazing Grace?

Tuesday, October 2, 2007

Interruptions.

Lately there has been, what seems like, an unusual amount of interruptions in our schedules. Funny enough? As I posted in regards to Mae.... "my time with her has been extended past September.. God's plan permitting..." or something of the that nature.... This is the first week of October. I will not be taking care of her this week. I have said "no".....

We arrived home last night. This morning, I found myself wanting to hide under the covers. Yet, it is Tuesday again... How does that happen? So.... off to the parenting class I went... Oh, class was great as usual... yet, I couldn't shake it.. The silent prayers.... I knew someone we care about was in trouble. Serious trouble. He was... he is.... He was Care Flighted back to the hospital this morning from our highly secure gated community. He just got home yesterday.

As I was sharing with a sweet friend at the little store.... life is like that... I wanted to stay under the covers and yet there was this commitment to keep to those in class. So, I went. It would have been easy for me to say "yes" to taking care of Mae on Friday of this week. Yet, there was this nudge inside of me that said, "Just say 'no'."

Currently, I am waiting for Parker to walk in from school. Then, off to take Austin to the foot doctor for another check-up from his surgery. Yes, there is that part of me that desperately wants to be at the hospital already with HB. Yet, there are some things of life that must come first. Actually... individuals.... relationships.....

I see the school bus now.... I must go now....... Please pray....

Community. Church Body. Christ.

This morning as I sit here reflecting back over the past few days.... I am in complete awe once again.

Dennis passed away on Wednesday night. So, on Friday morning... my mother and I headed down to Boerne, Texas. Immediately upon walking into their house... it was clear... he was truly a major figure in their community. Not only Dennis... but his wife Cathy, Dennis Ray Jr., Robert and Sarah as well. Why major figures? Because they poured into their community a love that can only come from Him.

After we spent some initial time with them... we went next door to where we were to be staying to freshen up. I must confess... after hearing that the six of us plus Uncle Joe and Aunt Paula were all going to be staying there... I was a little curious to meet this family and to see their house. Ellen greeted us at the door and opened up a serene retreat. We were to make ourselves comfortable..... eat their food, swim in their pool, relax in the hot tub, play with the dogs, read on the porches....... Why? They considered themselves blessed to have them for neighbors.

Friday night, as strange as this may sound.... we went to the high school football game. The team was a huge part of their lives. In fact, I cannot begin to share the countless stories I was told by members of the team about my cousin Dennis. The players all had his initials (DS) on the backs of their helmets. Robert did not play but lead the team out onto the field. Robert, Dennis Ray Jr., and Cathy were on the sidelines of the game the whole time. Player upon player coming up to them and hugging them. There was a moment of silence in memory of him. The game was dedicated to him. The team won after a nail biting game. They had already won before the game started... Cousin Dennis loved each one of the boys as if they were his own. Some do not have earthly fathers who claim them. He provided them with unconditional love and support as only possible through Him.

Throughout the moments of each day... there were members of their church there... bringing food, answering the phone, doing whatever needed to be done around the house... taking out the enormous amounts of trash that kept collecting... Funny thing is... I did not know a single stranger for there were none. Conversation after conversation... hug after hug... it was clear... when the church body is what it is meant to be... we are one in the bond of love.

More to come....... My cousin Dennis cannot compare to Him. Christ is truly the Famous One.