Saturday, October 13, 2007

Frog. Hair. Guitar.

Yesterday, on our way into town, the lawn pastor needed to stop to tend to one of the properties. This particular one has a good amount of land to it. It also has a pool in the back yard. The owners live most of the time in another part of the US. They have family who live in G-town, so they keep their place here as well.

I sat in the car listening to the radio (note: I was actually listening to music.. not a sermon..) while the lawn pastor went to check on it... the pool that is... He came back a couple of minutes later holding something in his hand. He also had that funny grin on his face like he knew he was going to gross me out. He did.... The frog went on a little trip down the road with us... Gave new meaning to frog legs... Yuck.

The lawn pastor got out down the road and let the frog go.... It seems that frogs have a thing for the pool and have been giving him all kinds of fits... clogging up the strainer and such. This was the only one he could catch.... I would have liked to have seen him trying to catch them... Frog legs anyone? Yuck.

I was telling the boys about it later.. They reminded me of another hilarious story involving the land surveyor pastor. He and J. were out in deep country... and all of the sudden he started hearing some noise coming out of the bush.... J. had been a surveyor for many years... Not... the land surveyor pastor... He was freaked out! And then it appeared.... a ferocious cotton-tail... We all just busted a gut. No matter how many times that story is told.. our reactions are still the same.. And it still makes him shiver.... lol

So, yesterday afternoon, I had finally had enough... It had been six months since I had my hair cut last. That's one of those things left over from the years I was ill and not able to go into a salon. I drove up to the one by the little store here in the highly secure gated community. As I walked in... she grabbed me immediately... In the course of conversation, she told me that she is a single, a mother to a three-year old.. and is currently not involved in a church any where... Best hair cut & style I've ever had... And it only cost $40.00. Better than the hundreds of dollars I used to spend back when I was Miss. B. every month to six weeks.

In a few hours, Austin and I are heading to the big city. We are meeting the Lincster there.. Austin has worked enough to buy his own guitar. He has been borrowing one of Linc's... Last night after Austin came home from work, I walked into his room. He was counting the money to make sure he had enough. In another pile, was money that he is putting in the plate on Sunday morning. He had already put it aside before moving onto what he was going to spend. He wants to buy the guitar himself instead of us buying it for him. I can't wait to see his face in the guitar center. I look forward to watching him and Linc pick out the one that has been waiting for Austin to save up the money to take it home and make it his. The gift of music is alive... Austin has a left-handed guitar that belonged to his grandpa. Austin is right-handed though.. He will now have two guitars... Each one special in their own ways... and such tremendous reminders of His love for Austin... and Austin's for Him. Austin is learning to play the guitar to use as an instrument to help himself and others worship.

God loves you..... that is what Austin says when he closes the trunk after putting some one's groceries in it. He does not accept tips any longer.

God loves you too.... dear readers... This moment.....

Friday, October 12, 2007

Mae. Worship. Pray.

This morning I was to take care of Mae. My phone had already rang a couple of times before I reached the highly secure gated community she lives in. Her two daughters wanting to know this and that....

When I arrived... there was her youngest son's truck as well. As I took my shoes off and entered the front door, there was the three of them - Mae, the daughter she lives with and the son. It has been a couple of weeks now since I have seen any of them. Oh my.... Their faces... Their body languages.... I was crying on the inside... And yet.. I knew what my job was this morning.

We had a frank conversation... the four of us... At times it is clear how we are to use previous experiences and knowledge.. No matter how we would like for it to not be so... The daughter had to leave to work for half a day... I gave Mae her meds and bathed her... and got all she needed ready to go. The son took her to the hospital...

I came back to the highly secure gated community we live in. Hubby was needing a break from studying.... so off we went into town. Just the two of us.... On the way back.... we worshipped... Hubby sang out loud.... I sang along in my heart... and mind. Mercy Me's song Bring the Rain.... did I ever mention that it was played at Dennis' celebration service? His wife insisted upon it being played....

There is much going on that I will not blog about at the moment. I ask that you pray for Mae and her dear precious family.....

Holy Holy Holy are You Lord God Almighty.

Conversations in the Waiting Room

Yesterday afternoon, one of the sweetest and kindest individual we've ever known was having surgery. She is also one of the receptionist for our local church body. So, even though I had already spent some time in GR yesterday morning with AC... I found myself driving back to the hospital.

ET and her hubby are without question.... two of the biggest blessings to have happened to our church in a few years and to us personally. He may be retired from secular employment but is definitely not from being a Christ-follower. In fact, he is even more on fire for the Lord now than before.... or so I've heard. ET, well.... she just flat out amazes me as well. What a couple! What an example of till death due us part....

While in the waiting room, there were many conversations to be had over the hours. ET and I had both been speakers at a women's event back when we both first came to the local church. It was then, that I met her daughter Jennifer. As we waited for news about her mama.... I walked with her baby (the youngest of five children).... she finally went to sleep on my shoulder and her mama and I had a real heart-to-heart talk. Funny enough? Jennifer not only knows AC & M but has known them and their parents since they were little girls... And their town is far smaller than ours. The name sounds like something from Little House on the Prairie.. I kid you not.... We did not even know there was a connection until that conversation... Now we have a better plan on helping these individuals....

G and his wife, JE, were there... I just had to laugh at him. As they were getting ready to leave to go help prepare for the widow's banquet... We all stood up to hug them goodbye. He walked over to me... put his arm around me and squeezed my shoulder tight.. He then said, "Camey? Have you finished that assignment I gave you last week?" Yep.... that definitely reminds me of daddy... and G and I just laughed and when I told him I had not as of yet... He said, "Okay now... I'm expecting you to get right on that." There's this family coming on Wednesday nights... and since I'm suppose to know each and every person... personally... he expects me to know them like yesterday.... (did you hear my finger snap just then?) lol What G doesn't realize just yet... I'm praying for him to find out who they are... their stories.... G? If you're reading this... I'm expecting you to get right on that....

There was another couple there that I do not know all that well. After a few of the others had gone on.... we had a chance to talk more in-depth. They fascinated me I must confess. I know the man sort of intimidates some.... Yet, after what little time I spent with him.. and his wife... his heart came through loud and clear. I pray more individuals would be willing to hear it... It amazes me at times who individuals are intimidated by... Forget looks.... it's the heart people...

While sitting in the waiting room... talking with such dear family... a man walked by... I called out to him and walked over to talk with him. He was one of my pastors when I was a little girl. He has the church were hubby preached his very first sermon at and a few other times in his absence. He loved my daddy... whom he called "Deacon" so... How God can truly heal relationships.... and take them to levels only He could know.

ET came out of surgery just fine... Hopefully, in time... even better than before... And let me tell you... She will be even more amazing... And she'll run circles around me and I will smile watching this precious older woman who loves Jesus so.

Thank You Lord for conversations in the waiting room... and for the individuals who come when called. Also for the hands being held while praying giving You the praise and the glory for the things You have done.

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Specific Prayer Requests

1) AC - She is 21 and the mother of a nine month old. Her life in general... and that of her son..

2) M - She is 21 and AC's best friend... She is now 2 months pregnant.

3) ET - She is having surgery right now.

4) Friends/Family - Have many, many friends & family in transitions right now... Too many to list...

5) KM - Just announced her/their wedding date. Please pray for her, him, and her son... K will be trying to adopt him after they marry.

And of course.... whatever you are needing prayer for today... this moment....

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