We had a nice 'quiet' Christmas at our grandparents house. We spent Christmas Eve there, so in the morning, we ate cimamon rolls for breakfast, then passed out gifts. I made Trissy a "bookmark book"! I got the idea from a craft website; it's a little book the size of a bookmark, but the pages are blank, and you can write inside, but still use it as a bookmark! I also gave her a pair of 'fun socks', light blue with white and dark blue snowflakes on them :). She gave me $25 toward my "new camera fund"!
Later in the afternoon, two of the married cousins and their families came down and we had supper, visited, and played games.
Sorry that's kindof short, but we're going to visit one of Mom's sisters and her family in Texas, and I've got to finish getting ready to leave! We'll be pulling out early tommorrow morning, and hope to be traveling back on New Year's Day!
I'll try to post about our visit then, when we get back!
Take care and keep looking Up! :)
-Kyrie<><
Monday, December 28, 2009
Where are they going?: a related post
Hello everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! We certainly had a nice one! But I'll post more about it later.
I wanted to share a little thing that happened Saturday evening. I didn't have access to the computer at the time, so I just jotted it down, and now am posting it:
~
Dec. 26, 2009
I have such a longing to see people saved! And such a long list to pray for! Once I have been burdened to pray for a specific person (or persons) I desire that the burden would not leave or lessen, that it will not fade in the destractions and continuation of 'ordinary' life.
This evening as I was going about working on some tasks and praying for the people on the movie I told about in the post 'Where are they going?', I was very discouraged in spirit - sometimes it seems so hopeless: If they haven't surrendered to the Lord by now, what are the chances they ever will at all?!
I felt desperate, and was praying as if I needed to 'make Him see it the way I saw it' so to speak. Like I had to persuade Him of the importance of the issue, and convince Him to do something about it!
Suddenly it came to me - something I knew in my head, but it was as if it hadn't reached my heart, and it all-of-a-sudden hit me with this quiet urgentness (if that's a word) - the Lord is just as grieved as I am that these I love don't know Him! I could almost feel a sigh of love and sadness, and hear a still small Voice say, "Don't you know I care, even more than you do? Just let Me work; let Me have them - trust them into My hands."
A moment later I noticed a gentle baritone singing (we are at my grandparents' and they have music going). The song was that dear old hymn "Like a River Glorious". This is the verse that caught my ear:
"Like a river glorious, is God’s perfect peace,
Over all victorious, in it's bright increase;
Perfect, yet it floweth, fuller every day,
Perfect, yet it groweth, deeper all the way."
God's peace...
~
How perfect the timing was...
Later I looked up the words to the whole song. Here it is:
"Like a river glorious, is God’s perfect peace,
Over all victorious, in it's bright increase;
Perfect, yet it floweth, fuller every day,
Perfect, yet it groweth, deeper all the way.
(Refrain)
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.
Hidden in the hollow of His blessed hand,
Never foe can follow, never traitor stand;
Not a surge of worry, not a shade of care,
Not a blast of hurry touch the spirit there.
(Refrain)
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.
Every joy or trial falleth from above,
Traced upon our dial by the Sun of Love;
We may trust Him fully all for us to do.
They who trust Him wholly find Him wholly true.
(Refrain)
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest."
Isn't it beautiful? The first and last verses especially seemed so appropriate for this. What was even more interesting was that the next morning's (yesterday now. I looked up the rest of the song yest. afternoon) Sunday school lesson was discussing some of the reasons God allows (or even causes) people to go through difficulties, or "trials", and the last verse focuses on that. The whole thing was just neat.
Long story short, I'm still burdened for those people, but I know that the Lord is controlling everything, and that the best thing for me to do is to keep praying that He will draw them to Himself, and then just trust Him for the rest.
I wonder, would any of you would care to pray with me?
I wanted to share a little thing that happened Saturday evening. I didn't have access to the computer at the time, so I just jotted it down, and now am posting it:
~
Dec. 26, 2009
I have such a longing to see people saved! And such a long list to pray for! Once I have been burdened to pray for a specific person (or persons) I desire that the burden would not leave or lessen, that it will not fade in the destractions and continuation of 'ordinary' life.
This evening as I was going about working on some tasks and praying for the people on the movie I told about in the post 'Where are they going?', I was very discouraged in spirit - sometimes it seems so hopeless: If they haven't surrendered to the Lord by now, what are the chances they ever will at all?!
I felt desperate, and was praying as if I needed to 'make Him see it the way I saw it' so to speak. Like I had to persuade Him of the importance of the issue, and convince Him to do something about it!
Suddenly it came to me - something I knew in my head, but it was as if it hadn't reached my heart, and it all-of-a-sudden hit me with this quiet urgentness (if that's a word) - the Lord is just as grieved as I am that these I love don't know Him! I could almost feel a sigh of love and sadness, and hear a still small Voice say, "Don't you know I care, even more than you do? Just let Me work; let Me have them - trust them into My hands."
A moment later I noticed a gentle baritone singing (we are at my grandparents' and they have music going). The song was that dear old hymn "Like a River Glorious". This is the verse that caught my ear:
"Like a river glorious, is God’s perfect peace,
Over all victorious, in it's bright increase;
Perfect, yet it floweth, fuller every day,
Perfect, yet it groweth, deeper all the way."
God's peace...
~
How perfect the timing was...
Later I looked up the words to the whole song. Here it is:
"Like a river glorious, is God’s perfect peace,
Over all victorious, in it's bright increase;
Perfect, yet it floweth, fuller every day,
Perfect, yet it groweth, deeper all the way.
(Refrain)
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.
Hidden in the hollow of His blessed hand,
Never foe can follow, never traitor stand;
Not a surge of worry, not a shade of care,
Not a blast of hurry touch the spirit there.
(Refrain)
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.
Every joy or trial falleth from above,
Traced upon our dial by the Sun of Love;
We may trust Him fully all for us to do.
They who trust Him wholly find Him wholly true.
(Refrain)
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest."
Isn't it beautiful? The first and last verses especially seemed so appropriate for this. What was even more interesting was that the next morning's (yesterday now. I looked up the rest of the song yest. afternoon) Sunday school lesson was discussing some of the reasons God allows (or even causes) people to go through difficulties, or "trials", and the last verse focuses on that. The whole thing was just neat.
Long story short, I'm still burdened for those people, but I know that the Lord is controlling everything, and that the best thing for me to do is to keep praying that He will draw them to Himself, and then just trust Him for the rest.
I wonder, would any of you would care to pray with me?
Friday, December 25, 2009
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
"And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them."
Luke 2:1-20
MERRY CHRISTMAS! May the Joy of the Lord fill your day!
And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them."
Luke 2:1-20
MERRY CHRISTMAS! May the Joy of the Lord fill your day!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Prayer Request
One of the sons of some dear friends is a Marine. He is on 'Presidential Duty' which basically means he is one of the President's bodyguards. He served President Bush, and we just learned today through the family Christmas newsletter that he has stayed on and is serving President Obama as well. PLEASE PRAY that he will be able to have an influence on the President and his family! He plays basketball with the president, and the president's two little daughters think he's "cool" because he can do backflips on their trampoline (!) so he is in close contact with them. He is a fine Christian young man, Godly and dedicated, so please pray he will be wise and know how to use his words, time, and opportunities with them wisely! He will be transfering to North Carolina sometime in January, so the time is short. I have prayed many times for the salvation of the President, and I don't know why I hadn't thought of this friend being right there before! Now time is so short (well, at least the time he has there is) and it would be such a great thing if this dear friend would have the honor and blessing of leading this ungodly and infuential man to Christ!
Thank you dear friends!
Thank you dear friends!
The Reason We Celebrate Christmas
I just wanted to wish you all a Merry CHRISTmas!
In all the bustle that goes on, remember that Christmas isn't about gifts
-though it is "more blessed to give than to receive", and that is one way we enjoy showing our love and appreciation for each other-
it's not about the decorations,
-though they are pretty, and add to the cheer and color-
it's not even about family
-though this is one of the most wonderful blessings the Lord has given us-
Christmas is about the greatest gift, the most beautiful person, and the friend that is "closer than a brother"
-Our Savior - Jesus CHRIST-
This Christmas, as you enjoy all the beauty, color, fun, and good-will that goes with the season, remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas!
In all the bustle that goes on, remember that Christmas isn't about gifts
-though it is "more blessed to give than to receive", and that is one way we enjoy showing our love and appreciation for each other-
it's not about the decorations,
-though they are pretty, and add to the cheer and color-
it's not even about family
-though this is one of the most wonderful blessings the Lord has given us-
Christmas is about the greatest gift, the most beautiful person, and the friend that is "closer than a brother"
-Our Savior - Jesus CHRIST-
This Christmas, as you enjoy all the beauty, color, fun, and good-will that goes with the season, remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Where are they going?
As those of you who know me well are very aware, I am extremely influenced by television. Now, for those of you who don't know me well, please allow me to explain before you jump to conclusions.
I have been blessed with an extremely imaginative imagination. When I see a new movie or TV show that I enjoy, I am caught up in the story, and fall in love with the characters. For hours, or even sometimes a couple of days, after seeing the film, I go through my tasks with my mind wrapped up in reliving the story and adding to it.
But this phase does not usually last long. A couple of days at most. If it was a good clean movie, then I still enjoy it, but unless it was written, directed, and acted out by believers, with the purpose being to give glory to God, (ie. Facing the Giants, Fireproof, etc.) then I am soon overcome with a maddening, almost frantic, saddness and desire to know, "Where are they going?!"
I have, since I was about 11 or 12, had a burning passionate love for actors and others invloved in film and TV - to win them to Christ. I thought perhaps I could get invloved in acting - in my young naive mind, I could see myself hitchhiking to Hollywood, becoming an actress, and through my overwhelming witness for Christ, tip the first dominoe that would start a full-scale revival sweeping through the world of film and television. Hmm. A few years and (hopefully) a little more maturity later, I now see the Swiss Cheese characteristics of that idea!
But even with the passing of the years, my love for these people and my burning desire to see them saved has not faded in the least. Indeed, if anything, it has increased.
Last week we had an early Christmas with the members of the family who will be elsewhere on Christmas day, and spent the time in relaxing occupations, visits, gift-giving, and other pleasant enterprises. One of the things we did was watch a movie. And not just a 'movie' but a 5-hour British depiction of three novels. To be that long, and a secular production, I was quite impressed with the 'cleanliness' of the content, and the story was definitly interesting, engaging, and (thankfully) not overbearingly romantic (I am not 'into' romances at all! I do like Fireproof, but that's different). In short, I enjoyed the movie.
Having said that, and with my above description of what my soul encounters after such a happening, you can guess what has followed...
I do not mean to be mournful or depressing in the least, but often I do find myself depressed - where are they going? What kind of lives do they live? What motivates them? Are they satisfied with their lives? Are they happy?
Strangely though (or, not so strange - God is all-powerful) many times, when I am presented with a 'new' set of these people, the Lord has given me a specific verse, often a little-known one, that seems to come out of the blue, yet is so appropriate to that group or movie.
This one was Daniel 6:27 -
"He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions."
Our Lord is amazing! He is not willing that any should perish, but that all would come to repentance, and He will give them every chance to surrender! Praise His Merciful Name!
In recent years, whenever I am having a spiritual 'crisis' of some kind (especially in relation to people I am burdened for), I have found it comforts me to express myself in poetry - which is kind of ironic, given the fact that I used to be the world's most scornful person when it came to poetry!
I wrote this one because of this last movie and it's people.
What of this world can tempt a soul to turn it's back on God?
What reward is to be gained by tramping earthly sod?
I, for one, look to the sky where is my truthful home -
My thoughts fly up on misty wings, amongst the heights to roam.
Why is such import put upon a fragile crown of gold?
Or, even more, upon men's praise which falters, then grows old?
What, dear soul? Doest thou not hear the weeping of the Lamb?
Dear Adonai, Jehovah God, our Lord, the great I AM?
'Twas just for YOU He shed that blood, more precious than rarest jewel!
Only for YOUR sake He died, and paid that price so cruel.
Now will you turn your back on Him - the One Who gave you life?
And choose instead this world below of anger, pain, and strife?!
Oh foolish heart! Oh poor lost soul! There is yet now still chance
to turn from ill, to turn to God, and with joy in heart - to dance!
Kyrie
I have been blessed with an extremely imaginative imagination. When I see a new movie or TV show that I enjoy, I am caught up in the story, and fall in love with the characters. For hours, or even sometimes a couple of days, after seeing the film, I go through my tasks with my mind wrapped up in reliving the story and adding to it.
But this phase does not usually last long. A couple of days at most. If it was a good clean movie, then I still enjoy it, but unless it was written, directed, and acted out by believers, with the purpose being to give glory to God, (ie. Facing the Giants, Fireproof, etc.) then I am soon overcome with a maddening, almost frantic, saddness and desire to know, "Where are they going?!"
I have, since I was about 11 or 12, had a burning passionate love for actors and others invloved in film and TV - to win them to Christ. I thought perhaps I could get invloved in acting - in my young naive mind, I could see myself hitchhiking to Hollywood, becoming an actress, and through my overwhelming witness for Christ, tip the first dominoe that would start a full-scale revival sweeping through the world of film and television. Hmm. A few years and (hopefully) a little more maturity later, I now see the Swiss Cheese characteristics of that idea!
But even with the passing of the years, my love for these people and my burning desire to see them saved has not faded in the least. Indeed, if anything, it has increased.
Last week we had an early Christmas with the members of the family who will be elsewhere on Christmas day, and spent the time in relaxing occupations, visits, gift-giving, and other pleasant enterprises. One of the things we did was watch a movie. And not just a 'movie' but a 5-hour British depiction of three novels. To be that long, and a secular production, I was quite impressed with the 'cleanliness' of the content, and the story was definitly interesting, engaging, and (thankfully) not overbearingly romantic (I am not 'into' romances at all! I do like Fireproof, but that's different). In short, I enjoyed the movie.
Having said that, and with my above description of what my soul encounters after such a happening, you can guess what has followed...
I do not mean to be mournful or depressing in the least, but often I do find myself depressed - where are they going? What kind of lives do they live? What motivates them? Are they satisfied with their lives? Are they happy?
Strangely though (or, not so strange - God is all-powerful) many times, when I am presented with a 'new' set of these people, the Lord has given me a specific verse, often a little-known one, that seems to come out of the blue, yet is so appropriate to that group or movie.
This one was Daniel 6:27 -
"He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions."
Our Lord is amazing! He is not willing that any should perish, but that all would come to repentance, and He will give them every chance to surrender! Praise His Merciful Name!
In recent years, whenever I am having a spiritual 'crisis' of some kind (especially in relation to people I am burdened for), I have found it comforts me to express myself in poetry - which is kind of ironic, given the fact that I used to be the world's most scornful person when it came to poetry!
I wrote this one because of this last movie and it's people.
What of this world can tempt a soul to turn it's back on God?
What reward is to be gained by tramping earthly sod?
I, for one, look to the sky where is my truthful home -
My thoughts fly up on misty wings, amongst the heights to roam.
Why is such import put upon a fragile crown of gold?
Or, even more, upon men's praise which falters, then grows old?
What, dear soul? Doest thou not hear the weeping of the Lamb?
Dear Adonai, Jehovah God, our Lord, the great I AM?
'Twas just for YOU He shed that blood, more precious than rarest jewel!
Only for YOUR sake He died, and paid that price so cruel.
Now will you turn your back on Him - the One Who gave you life?
And choose instead this world below of anger, pain, and strife?!
Oh foolish heart! Oh poor lost soul! There is yet now still chance
to turn from ill, to turn to God, and with joy in heart - to dance!
Kyrie
Monday, December 14, 2009
"Kyrie"
This afternoon I recieved quite a shock.
I suppose most of you know that I am a college student. Thankfully, I have two classes online, so I can do them in the safety and atmosphere of 'my own dwelling'. But I also have two at the college.
As a believer, my fore-most goal is to bring glory to my Father through my life. My second goal (and one way I can accomplish the first) is to live in such a way as to lead others to a saving faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. I have tried to do that during my time at the college, and have been able to cultivate a definite, though admittedly shallow, friendship with a few of my classmates. Three girls in particular. Today was the last day of class for this semester, and one of the classes was one unrelated to my major, so barring a miracle, I will most likely never see those young people again. I was able to catch one of the girls as we left class, and invite her to our Thursday night college Bible study. One I had already invited earlier in the semester, but she lives a pretty good driving distance away, and probably will not come. The third I just a few minutes ago ran into outside the library, and we carried on a bit of small talk for a few minutes before I felt it was a good time to invite her as well. Each time I have casually mentioned something about church or the Lord, she remains polite, (she's a nice pleasant girl) but I can see the little muscles around her eyes and lips tighten and it's as if her brain has sort of turned off. So I've tried to just bide my time, and keep being friendly, hoping to win her trust, and eventually show her the real meaning behind why we exist. So anyway, I invited her, and she was not rude, but still not enthusiastic (to say the least). I had noticed a white ribbon pinned to the lapel of her sweater, and as we parted - being the curious, naive person I am - I asked her what it was for, thinking in the far recesses of my mind that just maybe it was for purity. Ha. Perhaps I should not have asked. I don't know the ages and extent of worldly exposure all my readers have had, so I won't give her answer (though I had to look it up to verify the meaning) but I'll just say it symbolized support for an abominable wickedness, and you older ones will probably guess.
I felt totally shaken, and almost 'dirty' on the inside - she seemed like such a nice girl (as modern girls go)! No strange piercings or tatoos. Oh dear God in Heaven! No wonder Your Son wept over Jerusalem! But even as she answered, it was a bit reluctantly - she knew I would not approve - yet a tad defiant.
Dear readers! Please pray for this young girl! I gave her our phone number, in case she decided to come to the Bible study, so she knows how to contact me if ever she should decide to. But I have no way of knowing if I'll ever see her again!
Please pray for the Lord to reveal Himself to her in a way that would make her realize that she will never be happy unless she has Him as her Master and Friend!
This incident reminded me of the verse that says something to the effect of:
The Cross is - to them that perish - foolishness.
"Kyrie!" - literally.
I suppose most of you know that I am a college student. Thankfully, I have two classes online, so I can do them in the safety and atmosphere of 'my own dwelling'. But I also have two at the college.
As a believer, my fore-most goal is to bring glory to my Father through my life. My second goal (and one way I can accomplish the first) is to live in such a way as to lead others to a saving faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. I have tried to do that during my time at the college, and have been able to cultivate a definite, though admittedly shallow, friendship with a few of my classmates. Three girls in particular. Today was the last day of class for this semester, and one of the classes was one unrelated to my major, so barring a miracle, I will most likely never see those young people again. I was able to catch one of the girls as we left class, and invite her to our Thursday night college Bible study. One I had already invited earlier in the semester, but she lives a pretty good driving distance away, and probably will not come. The third I just a few minutes ago ran into outside the library, and we carried on a bit of small talk for a few minutes before I felt it was a good time to invite her as well. Each time I have casually mentioned something about church or the Lord, she remains polite, (she's a nice pleasant girl) but I can see the little muscles around her eyes and lips tighten and it's as if her brain has sort of turned off. So I've tried to just bide my time, and keep being friendly, hoping to win her trust, and eventually show her the real meaning behind why we exist. So anyway, I invited her, and she was not rude, but still not enthusiastic (to say the least). I had noticed a white ribbon pinned to the lapel of her sweater, and as we parted - being the curious, naive person I am - I asked her what it was for, thinking in the far recesses of my mind that just maybe it was for purity. Ha. Perhaps I should not have asked. I don't know the ages and extent of worldly exposure all my readers have had, so I won't give her answer (though I had to look it up to verify the meaning) but I'll just say it symbolized support for an abominable wickedness, and you older ones will probably guess.
I felt totally shaken, and almost 'dirty' on the inside - she seemed like such a nice girl (as modern girls go)! No strange piercings or tatoos. Oh dear God in Heaven! No wonder Your Son wept over Jerusalem! But even as she answered, it was a bit reluctantly - she knew I would not approve - yet a tad defiant.
Dear readers! Please pray for this young girl! I gave her our phone number, in case she decided to come to the Bible study, so she knows how to contact me if ever she should decide to. But I have no way of knowing if I'll ever see her again!
Please pray for the Lord to reveal Himself to her in a way that would make her realize that she will never be happy unless she has Him as her Master and Friend!
This incident reminded me of the verse that says something to the effect of:
The Cross is - to them that perish - foolishness.
"Kyrie!" - literally.
Do Hard Things
Hello again! Jenna, Josh, and Bethany are starting a new book on their blog Beyond the Cover. It's called, Do Hard Things, by Alex and Brett Harris. I've never actually read any of their books, but I've read a little about these twins, and all I've read is very encouraging. I hope to get the book and follow along! Why don't you consider doing the same?! Click on the book or the link to their blog to read more. Jenna and Josh both posted about it on their blogs as well.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
A book give-away
Miss Raquel is having a give-away! I've heard alot about this book, but I've never read it myself. Click Here to check it out!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Bible Study and Choir Practice
Hello everyone!
Last night we had our college class Bible study, but had to cut it short again because Bro. Dennis asked the choir to meet at 6:30 for practice. Seems like we haven't had a regular Bible study for about a month and a half! The college class usually meets at 6:00 and goes 'til about 8:00, but it's just a week from Sunday that we are having our Christmas Sing, and the choir still needs practice! About half the young people who are in the college class are also in choir, so we had a short Bible study and then those of us who are singing went over to the auditorium, and the rest were going to stay and just fellowship a little while. We had a real good practice, even though there were several missing. I love being in the choir! I love to sing, and besides, there is just this spirit of fun and joy that fills the whole experience. Choir practice is always an Experience ;) !
After we finished, and everyone was beginning to leave, Bro. Dennis took some time to show Trissy and me some more about chords. Don't know if I've told about this yet, but during the summer we had a week-long old-fashioned singing school at the church, and it went so well and there was such interest shown, that Bro. Dennis and Mrs. Janet (Bro. Jack's wife) who are probably the most musically knowledgeable people in the church, decided that it would be good to have a Saturday every quarter set aside as a 'day-long' singing school/music seminar. We had one in October, and it was such fun! I feel like I learned so much just in that one day! Towards the end, someone asked a question about chords, and Bro. Dennis began explaining it then, but my head was already so full that I didn't absorb much, and he told us he would help us with it some more - he knows how much Trissy and I love Southern Gospel music. So anyway, last night he explained more of it to us and helped us work out some questions, and I think a little more soaked in. Bro. Dennis is such an encyclopedia when it comes to music (and alot of other things too, for that matter) !
Oh, and also at some point during the conversation he enthusiastically commented that he had really enjoyed being around Uncle David - so I guess they hit it off pretty good :). I was really glad, because Bro. Dennis has such a joyful spirit, and he shows it best by teasing and joking and sometimes I think that some people are kind of (with all due respect - some of these people are adults) 'stick-in-the-mud' Christians and maybe just haven't learned how to let the Joy of the Lord be their strength - they get their dander up or their feelings hurt when if they would just see the humor, their lives could be alot less sour! So I'm glad Bro. Dennis (and Uncle David too) had someone to tease who would just laugh and then throw it right back for a change! :D
Last night we had our college class Bible study, but had to cut it short again because Bro. Dennis asked the choir to meet at 6:30 for practice. Seems like we haven't had a regular Bible study for about a month and a half! The college class usually meets at 6:00 and goes 'til about 8:00, but it's just a week from Sunday that we are having our Christmas Sing, and the choir still needs practice! About half the young people who are in the college class are also in choir, so we had a short Bible study and then those of us who are singing went over to the auditorium, and the rest were going to stay and just fellowship a little while. We had a real good practice, even though there were several missing. I love being in the choir! I love to sing, and besides, there is just this spirit of fun and joy that fills the whole experience. Choir practice is always an Experience ;) !
After we finished, and everyone was beginning to leave, Bro. Dennis took some time to show Trissy and me some more about chords. Don't know if I've told about this yet, but during the summer we had a week-long old-fashioned singing school at the church, and it went so well and there was such interest shown, that Bro. Dennis and Mrs. Janet (Bro. Jack's wife) who are probably the most musically knowledgeable people in the church, decided that it would be good to have a Saturday every quarter set aside as a 'day-long' singing school/music seminar. We had one in October, and it was such fun! I feel like I learned so much just in that one day! Towards the end, someone asked a question about chords, and Bro. Dennis began explaining it then, but my head was already so full that I didn't absorb much, and he told us he would help us with it some more - he knows how much Trissy and I love Southern Gospel music. So anyway, last night he explained more of it to us and helped us work out some questions, and I think a little more soaked in. Bro. Dennis is such an encyclopedia when it comes to music (and alot of other things too, for that matter) !
Oh, and also at some point during the conversation he enthusiastically commented that he had really enjoyed being around Uncle David - so I guess they hit it off pretty good :). I was really glad, because Bro. Dennis has such a joyful spirit, and he shows it best by teasing and joking and sometimes I think that some people are kind of (with all due respect - some of these people are adults) 'stick-in-the-mud' Christians and maybe just haven't learned how to let the Joy of the Lord be their strength - they get their dander up or their feelings hurt when if they would just see the humor, their lives could be alot less sour! So I'm glad Bro. Dennis (and Uncle David too) had someone to tease who would just laugh and then throw it right back for a change! :D
Uncle David
Sunday morning a surprise was waiting for us when we came out of Sunday School! Mom's youngest brother, Uncle David, had come down from his in-law's to visit the church. He is a missionary in Chile, South America, and he and his family are here in the states for a visit. His in-laws live in another state, and his father-in-law recently had a bad accident and is now recovering, so my aunt and two cousins stayed over there to help out while Uncle David decided to pop across the border and surprise us! We had been hoping they could visit Victory Rd. before they go back to Chile, especially Uncle David because we wanted him to get to meet Bro. Dennis. They are so much alike - both just love to tease, they're both practical jokesters, they are both counselors, both preachers, and so on. Their personalities are so much alike too. So many times one of them will do or say something, and it will remind me of the other one! We were really excited when we walked into the auditorium and saw him sitting on 'our' bench! Anyway, he seemed to enjoy it, and sure enough, he and Bro. Dennis did hit it off right away :) . Bro. Earl really liked him too, and even asked him to preach Sunday night! He did, and after church he and Bro. Earl, Bro. Dennis, and some others I think, sat down and just visited and discussed/talked like preachers like to do :).
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
A Double Tag!
I have been tagged by Miranda and Grace! Thanks to both of you! Here we go!
Six Names You Go By?
M&M
Willie :)
Lu
Meg
Sweets (my sister calls me that :) )
Cuz (by cousins and close friends)
Don't ask about the origins of all those names! We'd be here a while ;)
Three things you are wearing right now?
Denim skirt
Purity ring
my glasses
Three things you want very badly right now?
to win my college classmates to the Lord
to be able to play the piano like Ben
a horse
Three things you did last night/yesterday
Worked at the Christian school
Knitted on a dishcloth for one of my instructors for Christmas
Painted a gift box for a Christmas present
Two things you ate yesterday?
An apple (love apples!)
Hashbrown casserole (yum!)
Two people you last talked to on the phone
my sister Trissy
my Mom
Two things you are going to do today/tomorrow
College home-work
go to Church tonight (Wednesday night mid-week service)
Your three favorite beverages
Water
Milk
this last one is a toss-up between several different ones...
NOW TAG EIGHT PEOPLE:
Wow! I think Beth, Jenna, and Josh are about the only bloggers I follow who have not been tagged with this one yet! :)
Beth
Josh
Jenna
So anyone else who would like to do this one can!
Thanks Grace and Miranda! It was fun :)
Six Names You Go By?
M&M
Willie :)
Lu
Meg
Sweets (my sister calls me that :) )
Cuz (by cousins and close friends)
Don't ask about the origins of all those names! We'd be here a while ;)
Three things you are wearing right now?
Denim skirt
Purity ring
my glasses
Three things you want very badly right now?
to win my college classmates to the Lord
to be able to play the piano like Ben
a horse
Three things you did last night/yesterday
Worked at the Christian school
Knitted on a dishcloth for one of my instructors for Christmas
Painted a gift box for a Christmas present
Two things you ate yesterday?
An apple (love apples!)
Hashbrown casserole (yum!)
Two people you last talked to on the phone
my sister Trissy
my Mom
Two things you are going to do today/tomorrow
College home-work
go to Church tonight (Wednesday night mid-week service)
Your three favorite beverages
Water
Milk
this last one is a toss-up between several different ones...
NOW TAG EIGHT PEOPLE:
Wow! I think Beth, Jenna, and Josh are about the only bloggers I follow who have not been tagged with this one yet! :)
Beth
Josh
Jenna
So anyone else who would like to do this one can!
Thanks Grace and Miranda! It was fun :)
Friday, December 4, 2009
Christmas is Coming!
We started putting up our decorations for Christmas a couple of days ago, and I am so excited! We use an evergreen garland instead of a tree, and when it's draped over the top of the big livingroom bookcase, the candles are set around and lit, and we start putting all the memory-full ornaments on, you know Christmas is really coming!
We usually do it where one side I decorate with the ornaments I've collected over the years, Trissy does the other side with hers, and Dad & Mom's go over the top; this year though Trissy and I are mixing ours up, and so it looks different than in past years, and it's almost like a treasure hunt to find the 'favorites' among the branches. I hope to post a few pictures of it here soon. I have been wanting to post more pictures on my blog, but my devoted little camera has been working hard for me for two solid, picture-full years and I think it's getting ready to enjoy it's retirement :). So we'll see. I'm hoping to start saving up for another one soon... I want one that would be better to use for 'real' photography, and those are expensive!
But back to the subject. I changed my blog to match my Christmas spirit, and I really like it! What do you all think? A huge thanks to Libby at Rosie Blog Designs for the beautiful background! Go check her out - she does a great job!
We usually do it where one side I decorate with the ornaments I've collected over the years, Trissy does the other side with hers, and Dad & Mom's go over the top; this year though Trissy and I are mixing ours up, and so it looks different than in past years, and it's almost like a treasure hunt to find the 'favorites' among the branches. I hope to post a few pictures of it here soon. I have been wanting to post more pictures on my blog, but my devoted little camera has been working hard for me for two solid, picture-full years and I think it's getting ready to enjoy it's retirement :). So we'll see. I'm hoping to start saving up for another one soon... I want one that would be better to use for 'real' photography, and those are expensive!
But back to the subject. I changed my blog to match my Christmas spirit, and I really like it! What do you all think? A huge thanks to Libby at Rosie Blog Designs for the beautiful background! Go check her out - she does a great job!
A Tag from Hannah
Hannah did this tag on her blog, and I enjoyed reading it, so I decided to do it too!
1) Why do you have a blog?
Because I wanted an easier way to record my personal thoughts, feelings, and activities than pen and paper (my hand gets to aching when I write a long time, and when I get "into it", I get into it ;D !) But I have recieved many unexpected blessings from blogging, such as being encouraged from reading the blogs of so many other Godly young people who are out there! It has really strengthened my faith - we are not alone!
2) Do you have more close online friends or offline?
Offline
3) Do you correspond?
Yes! I love to get and send 'snail mail', just seems like I don't have alot of time to devote to it! :/
4) Do you have a best friend?
I have several very close and dear friends... I don't know that I have a "best" human friend, though. More and more I am coming to realize that Jesus is truly my "best friend". He's the only one who knows all about me - my faults, my strengths, my loves - I can talk to Him about anything and He listens, cares, and then does something about it!
5) Do you play April Fools Day pranks?
I think once I did (I told my sister there was a snake in the bathroom, or something like that, but I couldn't keep my face straight, and she saw right through it :] ), but usually I don't even remember that it is April Fools' Day!
6) Have you watched a movie and then regretted it?
Many times. :""( Our family is always looking for good movies, and so many times a family member or friend will say, "This or that movie is so good!" and then we watch it, and we're like "UHGG! This isn't a good movie!" We've got to where we hardly watch anything unless it's something we know is fit to spend precious time on. (We did recently watch two new movies, one called "Come What May", and the other one I first heard about on Cora's blog called "The Widow's Might". Both were made by groups of homeschoolers, and were not dissapointing! I guess The Widow's Might might could be considered better, in that the women and girls were dressed how I would consider to be completely modest, whereas a couple of times women wore pants and sleeveless tops in "Come What May". Otherwise, I would unashamedly and highly recommend both movies)
7) Do you generally prefer books or their movie adaptions?
As a general rule, definitly books! Although there are a few where I enjoyed both equally, even though they were slightly different ("Johnny Tremain" for example)
8) How many siblings do you have?
>Sniff< Just one... I always wished there were more!
9) Do you want more?
Yes, but aside from a miracle, I don't think that wish will come true. I've settled for friends and cousins that are my "adopted" brothers and sisters :)!
10) Do you have any married siblings?
No
11) What is your favorite branch of the military?
Marines!! Semper Fidelis! (We have many friends and/or relatives in the Marines, and also I have just always been fascinated with the Marines for some reason - Just on a side note though, and to make myself quite understood ( ;) ), I DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES believe it is right for women to be in the millitary!)
12) What do you hate most in books/movies?
Ungodly ideas, words, or actions.
13) If you had to name just one book (other than the Bible) to call your favorite, what would it be?
WOW! That is HARD! :) I have four or five really favorite favorites... It'd be too hard to settle on just one, I think... Look at my bookshelf! :)
14) What book/series/movie have you been the most wrapped up in?
Ever? Or recently?
Books: Ever, probably The Chronicles of Narnia, or Not My Will, more recently, the Red Rock Mystery Series (by Jerry Jenkins and Chris Fabry), though I haven't really gotten to read 'for pleasure' in a while.
Movies: Fireproof!
15) What music are you listening to right now?
Right this minute, none. But my favorite is Southern Gospel, quartet style, or Scottish/Irish hymns
16) What are you having for dinner?
Left overs from when the Thanksgiving crowd was here: a hotdog and the last bun! ;D (we believe simple is best when you have a ton of people, and it's not the "main" meal, i.e. Thanksgiving dinner ;) ) And an apple, some raisins, tortilla chips, and water.
I'll close with what Hannah said: If you would like to do this tag, just leave a comment on my blog telling me you did it, so that way I can come and read yours! :D
1) Why do you have a blog?
Because I wanted an easier way to record my personal thoughts, feelings, and activities than pen and paper (my hand gets to aching when I write a long time, and when I get "into it", I get into it ;D !) But I have recieved many unexpected blessings from blogging, such as being encouraged from reading the blogs of so many other Godly young people who are out there! It has really strengthened my faith - we are not alone!
2) Do you have more close online friends or offline?
Offline
3) Do you correspond?
Yes! I love to get and send 'snail mail', just seems like I don't have alot of time to devote to it! :/
4) Do you have a best friend?
I have several very close and dear friends... I don't know that I have a "best" human friend, though. More and more I am coming to realize that Jesus is truly my "best friend". He's the only one who knows all about me - my faults, my strengths, my loves - I can talk to Him about anything and He listens, cares, and then does something about it!
5) Do you play April Fools Day pranks?
I think once I did (I told my sister there was a snake in the bathroom, or something like that, but I couldn't keep my face straight, and she saw right through it :] ), but usually I don't even remember that it is April Fools' Day!
6) Have you watched a movie and then regretted it?
Many times. :""( Our family is always looking for good movies, and so many times a family member or friend will say, "This or that movie is so good!" and then we watch it, and we're like "UHGG! This isn't a good movie!" We've got to where we hardly watch anything unless it's something we know is fit to spend precious time on. (We did recently watch two new movies, one called "Come What May", and the other one I first heard about on Cora's blog called "The Widow's Might". Both were made by groups of homeschoolers, and were not dissapointing! I guess The Widow's Might might could be considered better, in that the women and girls were dressed how I would consider to be completely modest, whereas a couple of times women wore pants and sleeveless tops in "Come What May". Otherwise, I would unashamedly and highly recommend both movies)
7) Do you generally prefer books or their movie adaptions?
As a general rule, definitly books! Although there are a few where I enjoyed both equally, even though they were slightly different ("Johnny Tremain" for example)
8) How many siblings do you have?
>Sniff< Just one... I always wished there were more!
9) Do you want more?
Yes, but aside from a miracle, I don't think that wish will come true. I've settled for friends and cousins that are my "adopted" brothers and sisters :)!
10) Do you have any married siblings?
No
11) What is your favorite branch of the military?
Marines!! Semper Fidelis! (We have many friends and/or relatives in the Marines, and also I have just always been fascinated with the Marines for some reason - Just on a side note though, and to make myself quite understood ( ;) ), I DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES believe it is right for women to be in the millitary!)
12) What do you hate most in books/movies?
Ungodly ideas, words, or actions.
13) If you had to name just one book (other than the Bible) to call your favorite, what would it be?
WOW! That is HARD! :) I have four or five really favorite favorites... It'd be too hard to settle on just one, I think... Look at my bookshelf! :)
14) What book/series/movie have you been the most wrapped up in?
Ever? Or recently?
Books: Ever, probably The Chronicles of Narnia, or Not My Will, more recently, the Red Rock Mystery Series (by Jerry Jenkins and Chris Fabry), though I haven't really gotten to read 'for pleasure' in a while.
Movies: Fireproof!
15) What music are you listening to right now?
Right this minute, none. But my favorite is Southern Gospel, quartet style, or Scottish/Irish hymns
16) What are you having for dinner?
Left overs from when the Thanksgiving crowd was here: a hotdog and the last bun! ;D (we believe simple is best when you have a ton of people, and it's not the "main" meal, i.e. Thanksgiving dinner ;) ) And an apple, some raisins, tortilla chips, and water.
I'll close with what Hannah said: If you would like to do this tag, just leave a comment on my blog telling me you did it, so that way I can come and read yours! :D
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Marie-Madeline Studio quilt give-away!
The Marie-Madeline Studio is having a quilt give-away! The give-away ends December 13th. There are two beautiful quilts to pick from, so go check it out!
Thanksgiving, and the events closely surrounding it
Last week we had mid-week services on Tuesday night instead of Wednesday, since Wed. was the day before Thanksgiving, and lots of people needed to be traveling. Trissy and I went to the ladies' class instead of our youth class, because the youth were having class outside as sort of a treat, but it was cold, and we have both been fighting sickness. I hated to miss ours, but the other one was good. Mrs. Sarah, Mrs. Shannen's sister taught it. She focused on Colossians 4:2. "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." She had three thoughts on that verse. 1) "Devote yourselves to prayer" Devote is to commit oneself to. When we do not pray, rely on the LORD and are not thankful as we should be, it's an insult to the LORD who gives us each moment and every blessing we receive in our lives. We then are setting ourselves up for defeat and unfruitful lives. 2) "Watch in the same" Staying active and alerted to the need of prayer in our lives. When we are not watchful, we can find ourselves doing our own thing, and leaving prayer out. 3) "With thanksgiving" Keep an attitude of thanksgiving - being thankful and grateful to God. To be thankful also means to receive something as an expression of grace by someone and accept it as if one doesn't deserve it. We are thankful because of God's greatest gift - the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. I was glad we got in on that lesson! Mrs. Shannen usually teaches the ladies' class, but something came up, and she couldn't be there, so Mrs. Sarah did.
Thanksgiving went really well. Usually, all the family who can, meet at our grandparents house (they live just up the road from my family - we can walk slowly, and still get there in less than 5 miniutes) for the holidays, at least Thanksgiving. Some of our family came in Sunday night, and the rest Wednesday. Mom's youngest brother (Uncle David) and his family came in Sunday night. They are missionaries in South America, but are here visiting for a year. They plan to go back around Feb. or March. Since they got here so early in the week, Trissy and I had fun with our cousins picking up some more of the pecans that the LORD has showered down so plentifully in our grandparents' yard! After some really strong winds a few weeks ago, the picking was so easy! It was almost like you could scoop your hands in and fill up a gallon in no time.
Then Mom's brother and his family who live only about an hour away and her older sister and her family (who live in Texas) came in on Wednesday. Thursday the rest of the married grandkids and their families got there, and the good old house was bulging! It was good to have so many of the folks here all together for a while! Friday night we had a bonfire/hotdog roast up at our house for the ones who were still here, and it was cold! It was so much fun sitting around the fire after we ate, telling missionary stories, other stories, singing, and just enjoying each other's company!
Thanksgiving went really well. Usually, all the family who can, meet at our grandparents house (they live just up the road from my family - we can walk slowly, and still get there in less than 5 miniutes) for the holidays, at least Thanksgiving. Some of our family came in Sunday night, and the rest Wednesday. Mom's youngest brother (Uncle David) and his family came in Sunday night. They are missionaries in South America, but are here visiting for a year. They plan to go back around Feb. or March. Since they got here so early in the week, Trissy and I had fun with our cousins picking up some more of the pecans that the LORD has showered down so plentifully in our grandparents' yard! After some really strong winds a few weeks ago, the picking was so easy! It was almost like you could scoop your hands in and fill up a gallon in no time.
Then Mom's brother and his family who live only about an hour away and her older sister and her family (who live in Texas) came in on Wednesday. Thursday the rest of the married grandkids and their families got there, and the good old house was bulging! It was good to have so many of the folks here all together for a while! Friday night we had a bonfire/hotdog roast up at our house for the ones who were still here, and it was cold! It was so much fun sitting around the fire after we ate, telling missionary stories, other stories, singing, and just enjoying each other's company!
The Bible Conference - November 17th - 19th
Wow, so much has happened since the last time I really posted. I'll try to do a little catching up. :)
Nov. 17 - 19 we (Dad, Mom, Trissy, and I) all went with Mom's parents (our only living grandparents - Dad's parents both died before he and Mom married), up to the northern part of the state to a Bible Conference we try to attend every year (Dad doesn't always get to go, because of his work, but the rest of us have only missed once in 10 years!). It was wonderful! The people who 'run' it were missionaries at the same time Mom and her folks were, and they sort of grew up together, so we are still all really good friends. We always look forward to it every year, and get a such blessing from the Conference! It's always so refreshing to hear 2-3 solid days of good preaching, and getting to see and visit with old friends is always a treat too! This year it was a little shorter than usual, beginning Tuesday night and ending Thursday morning instead of Friday morning like past years. But next year it will probably be back longer.
This year I was especially blessed. It felt like the Lord was just almost having fun seeing how thrilled He could get me! I mean that in no way irreverently (speaking of God Almighty as if He were of the same type of mind as a human - He knows all things!) but it really was as if He was just poring and poring down joy upon me! Maybe I can go into details later. But anyway, we all came back so refreshed and thankful, and I was on "cloud nine", as they say :) .
Lately (for about the past 2 or 3 months) the Lord has just really impressed upon me the significance, importance, and - sadly - neglect of this verse:
"Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness,
and for His wonderful works to the children of men!"
Ps. 107:8
I 'discovered' this verse at a very discouraged time in my life, and have been working on memorizing verses 8 - 21.
With all the recent blessings (and the Conference being sort of a climax), it seemed my heart was just singing - and this verse was the song.
Nov. 17 - 19 we (Dad, Mom, Trissy, and I) all went with Mom's parents (our only living grandparents - Dad's parents both died before he and Mom married), up to the northern part of the state to a Bible Conference we try to attend every year (Dad doesn't always get to go, because of his work, but the rest of us have only missed once in 10 years!). It was wonderful! The people who 'run' it were missionaries at the same time Mom and her folks were, and they sort of grew up together, so we are still all really good friends. We always look forward to it every year, and get a such blessing from the Conference! It's always so refreshing to hear 2-3 solid days of good preaching, and getting to see and visit with old friends is always a treat too! This year it was a little shorter than usual, beginning Tuesday night and ending Thursday morning instead of Friday morning like past years. But next year it will probably be back longer.
This year I was especially blessed. It felt like the Lord was just almost having fun seeing how thrilled He could get me! I mean that in no way irreverently (speaking of God Almighty as if He were of the same type of mind as a human - He knows all things!) but it really was as if He was just poring and poring down joy upon me! Maybe I can go into details later. But anyway, we all came back so refreshed and thankful, and I was on "cloud nine", as they say :) .
Lately (for about the past 2 or 3 months) the Lord has just really impressed upon me the significance, importance, and - sadly - neglect of this verse:
"Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness,
and for His wonderful works to the children of men!"
Ps. 107:8
I 'discovered' this verse at a very discouraged time in my life, and have been working on memorizing verses 8 - 21.
With all the recent blessings (and the Conference being sort of a climax), it seemed my heart was just singing - and this verse was the song.
Monday, November 23, 2009
An Award
Hello! So much has happened since my last post! But once again, I don't have much time... But I wanted to thank Hannah for the award!
Here are the rules:
1. Thank the person who gave you the award.
2. Copy the Award.
3. Post it in your blog.
4. Tell Us 7 things that your readers don't know.
5. Link 7 new bloggers as recipients.
6. Notify winners of award with comment on their blog.
7. Keep being an encouragement!
Ok, here are seven things about me that you probably don't know :) !
1. I like all the 'sevens' in this! Did you know that in the Bible, seven symbolizes perfection?
2. I love horses, but don't have one (even though I've wanted one since I was 7! And I live in the country too! :( )
3. I have just one sister, but wish I had lots of brothers and sisters!
4. I love the chex mix Muddie Buddies!
5. My favorite color is red, & my second-favorite is blue
6. I was home-schooled all my schooling years (until I started college)
7. I sometimes start laughing at something totally random, and then can't stop!
Now to award someone else! :
I haven't been blogging very long, and don't know many people, so instead of awarding seven, I'm just going to do four...
Now, for the people I award (drum role please):
1. Livvy
2. Beth (my newest friend in Blog World :) )
3. Hannah Paige
4. Cora
Until next time (whenever that shall be... ;) ) may the Lord hold you in the hollow of His hand!
Here are the rules:
1. Thank the person who gave you the award.
2. Copy the Award.
3. Post it in your blog.
4. Tell Us 7 things that your readers don't know.
5. Link 7 new bloggers as recipients.
6. Notify winners of award with comment on their blog.
7. Keep being an encouragement!
Ok, here are seven things about me that you probably don't know :) !
1. I like all the 'sevens' in this! Did you know that in the Bible, seven symbolizes perfection?
2. I love horses, but don't have one (even though I've wanted one since I was 7! And I live in the country too! :( )
3. I have just one sister, but wish I had lots of brothers and sisters!
4. I love the chex mix Muddie Buddies!
5. My favorite color is red, & my second-favorite is blue
6. I was home-schooled all my schooling years (until I started college)
7. I sometimes start laughing at something totally random, and then can't stop!
Now to award someone else! :
I haven't been blogging very long, and don't know many people, so instead of awarding seven, I'm just going to do four...
Now, for the people I award (drum role please):
1. Livvy
2. Beth (my newest friend in Blog World :) )
3. Hannah Paige
4. Cora
Until next time (whenever that shall be... ;) ) may the Lord hold you in the hollow of His hand!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Thursday night college class last week
I don't think I've told about this yet, but on Thursday nights the college age young people have a Bible study/fellowship time. Anyone 17 years old and up can come. Well, almost everyone is 17 or up... :) . Tanner, Justice's younger brother, is just sixteen, but he was so disapointed that he was not old enough to come! And he is such a fine young man, serious about studying the Bible, and just a great kid to be around, that we voted him in ;D ! We originally set the age limit at 17 because, after all, it is a college class, and 17-year-olds would at least be seniors in high school, but mainly (not to be mean or anything) because we wanted to be sure that those who came were coming because they were serious about their walk with the Lord, and not just there for "fun". But Tanner fits that, so we allowed him in, and he really has added a whole new neat dimension to things!
Anyway, a few weeks ago, a young couple who were expecting their first child visited the church. The baby was due in December, but was born the week after they visited, quite early. So we as a church took them up, to love and help them during this difficult time, sending cards and baskets of goodies, visiting, calling, and praying for them. The husband is in the military, and the wife's family all live far away, so they were kind of "on their own". They have been so touched by all the caring and love, and it's been such a blessing to know we are being a blessing!
So anyway, the Thurs. night college class wanted to make up their own basket to send, so this past Thurs. instead of regular Bible study, we all went out to Wal*Mart to go shopping for stuff for the basket. We ended up splitting up, the boys and Bro. Mike (he comes to the class too, and also Bro. Dennis when he has a chance. I guess they are the oldest of those who come) went to look for things for the husband, and the girls went to get stuff for the wife and the baby. We spent about an hour, then paid for our things (everyone chipped in) and went back to the church to 'assemble' the basket. Actually, we ended up doing 3 'baskets' of a sort. We got a tool bucket to put the man's things in, a decorative basket for the woman's things, and a small diperbag for the baby's. None of them were big, and we didn't buy a ton of stuff, we just wanted to do something from the class show our love. After we finished with that, we just sat around enjoying each other's company :) . Most of them played a game, but Lindy (a really nice, kind, shy girl who Trissy and I are good friends with; well, sometimes she's shy. She's pretty tough when she has to be, and she's not really shy around people she knows. She's really pretty too, slim and athletic, with wavy/curly brownsugar-colored hair, powder-blue eyes, and a delicate, thoughtful face) was having trouble with Algebra, and brought her books thinking maybe some of us could help her with it. So Trissy, me, Oliver, Tanner, Landon Barker (he's another neat kid! He's slim and cowboyish, with short chocolate-colored hair and eyes, and he's 17, but he's got a lisp, so if you ask him his name, it isn't "Landon Barker", it's "Wandon Bawkuh"! :D But he says it quickly, so it sounds right anyway. He is such a good sport and just a really neat person to be around), and Archer (more about him in a minute) were all sitting with her, trying to help out. We ended up talking about several other things besides just math! I mainly wanted to tell about this because of what Archer confided (don't worry, he wouldn't mind me telling it). I'd like y'all to be praying for him. He's a really laid-back type person. He's got a quirky sense of dry humor, so that you've got to be around him for a while before you can tell whether he's joking/teasing, or if he's serious; but his mouth always looks like he's just trying to keep from smiling, and if you say something funny just right, the smile will break out. He's tall and lanky, (alot like Tanner is, 'cept Tanner's blond) with dark dark brown hair, just shy of black, a good straight nose with lots of freckles, and serious brown eyes. Ok, anyway, his family recently moved here from Kansas. When they had to move, it really sort of shook his comfort, you might say, cause they (he, his brother, and two sisters) were going to a small, close-knit Christian school, and he was real close to his classmates there (and they were good Christian friends besides). They moved here and had to find a new school. Well, the three youngest go to Victory Road Christian Academy here, but Archer's a senior, and the school only has through 10th grade right now. So he's having to go to another very difficult, liberal, non-Christian, public school, and it's about to get the best of him. He's going to try to "stick it out though". So just pray for him when you think of it, and for all the young people as they try to live Christian lives in difficult environments.
Wow, there is so much more, but I really need to take a break from the computer - my eyes are aching really bad.
Ttyl...Take care, and Ps. 107:8!
Anyway, a few weeks ago, a young couple who were expecting their first child visited the church. The baby was due in December, but was born the week after they visited, quite early. So we as a church took them up, to love and help them during this difficult time, sending cards and baskets of goodies, visiting, calling, and praying for them. The husband is in the military, and the wife's family all live far away, so they were kind of "on their own". They have been so touched by all the caring and love, and it's been such a blessing to know we are being a blessing!
So anyway, the Thurs. night college class wanted to make up their own basket to send, so this past Thurs. instead of regular Bible study, we all went out to Wal*Mart to go shopping for stuff for the basket. We ended up splitting up, the boys and Bro. Mike (he comes to the class too, and also Bro. Dennis when he has a chance. I guess they are the oldest of those who come) went to look for things for the husband, and the girls went to get stuff for the wife and the baby. We spent about an hour, then paid for our things (everyone chipped in) and went back to the church to 'assemble' the basket. Actually, we ended up doing 3 'baskets' of a sort. We got a tool bucket to put the man's things in, a decorative basket for the woman's things, and a small diperbag for the baby's. None of them were big, and we didn't buy a ton of stuff, we just wanted to do something from the class show our love. After we finished with that, we just sat around enjoying each other's company :) . Most of them played a game, but Lindy (a really nice, kind, shy girl who Trissy and I are good friends with; well, sometimes she's shy. She's pretty tough when she has to be, and she's not really shy around people she knows. She's really pretty too, slim and athletic, with wavy/curly brownsugar-colored hair, powder-blue eyes, and a delicate, thoughtful face) was having trouble with Algebra, and brought her books thinking maybe some of us could help her with it. So Trissy, me, Oliver, Tanner, Landon Barker (he's another neat kid! He's slim and cowboyish, with short chocolate-colored hair and eyes, and he's 17, but he's got a lisp, so if you ask him his name, it isn't "Landon Barker", it's "Wandon Bawkuh"! :D But he says it quickly, so it sounds right anyway. He is such a good sport and just a really neat person to be around), and Archer (more about him in a minute) were all sitting with her, trying to help out. We ended up talking about several other things besides just math! I mainly wanted to tell about this because of what Archer confided (don't worry, he wouldn't mind me telling it). I'd like y'all to be praying for him. He's a really laid-back type person. He's got a quirky sense of dry humor, so that you've got to be around him for a while before you can tell whether he's joking/teasing, or if he's serious; but his mouth always looks like he's just trying to keep from smiling, and if you say something funny just right, the smile will break out. He's tall and lanky, (alot like Tanner is, 'cept Tanner's blond) with dark dark brown hair, just shy of black, a good straight nose with lots of freckles, and serious brown eyes. Ok, anyway, his family recently moved here from Kansas. When they had to move, it really sort of shook his comfort, you might say, cause they (he, his brother, and two sisters) were going to a small, close-knit Christian school, and he was real close to his classmates there (and they were good Christian friends besides). They moved here and had to find a new school. Well, the three youngest go to Victory Road Christian Academy here, but Archer's a senior, and the school only has through 10th grade right now. So he's having to go to another very difficult, liberal, non-Christian, public school, and it's about to get the best of him. He's going to try to "stick it out though". So just pray for him when you think of it, and for all the young people as they try to live Christian lives in difficult environments.
Wow, there is so much more, but I really need to take a break from the computer - my eyes are aching really bad.
Ttyl...Take care, and Ps. 107:8!
Oliver's lesson - "Discipleship: Getting Alone With God"
Two weeks ago on Wednesday nights Bro. Mike (the youth pastor) started a series of lessons on True Discipleship and what it means to really follow the Lord with your whole heart and life. I was really glad, 'cause that sort of thing is not put much emphasis on any more.
There are a couple of young men who have surrendered to preach in the youth group, and Bro. Mike is having them take turns with him teaching the lessons. Oliver is 17, medium height, gentle and fun, with short jet-black hair and dark eyes that burn with the passion in his heart whenever he is teaching or preaching. Justice is 21, not real tall, and kind of stocky, mature and responsible, a born leader, with unruly chocolate curls, sky-blue eyes, and a wonderful, boyish sense of humor.
So this past Wed. was Oliver's turn, and he taught on True Discipleship: Getting Alone With God. It was so good! He used Matthew 6:6, and 1 Kings (I don't remember the exact reference. I'll go look it up later and fill it in) as his scriptures. He talked about how so many times we run and rush and run and rush, and pack way too much into our schedules, and then we don't take the time to just stop, be still, and listen to the Lord speak to us. Cause He's not going to try to yell over all the hubub in our lives. When He speaks, He speaks in a still, small voice. It's our responsibility to make sure we take that time that we need, and that He tells us to, to just "recharge our batteries", so to speak. It was so thought-provoking, and just really good and "deep". You'd just need to have been there.
There are a couple of young men who have surrendered to preach in the youth group, and Bro. Mike is having them take turns with him teaching the lessons. Oliver is 17, medium height, gentle and fun, with short jet-black hair and dark eyes that burn with the passion in his heart whenever he is teaching or preaching. Justice is 21, not real tall, and kind of stocky, mature and responsible, a born leader, with unruly chocolate curls, sky-blue eyes, and a wonderful, boyish sense of humor.
So this past Wed. was Oliver's turn, and he taught on True Discipleship: Getting Alone With God. It was so good! He used Matthew 6:6, and 1 Kings (I don't remember the exact reference. I'll go look it up later and fill it in) as his scriptures. He talked about how so many times we run and rush and run and rush, and pack way too much into our schedules, and then we don't take the time to just stop, be still, and listen to the Lord speak to us. Cause He's not going to try to yell over all the hubub in our lives. When He speaks, He speaks in a still, small voice. It's our responsibility to make sure we take that time that we need, and that He tells us to, to just "recharge our batteries", so to speak. It was so thought-provoking, and just really good and "deep". You'd just need to have been there.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Pickin' Pecans
Well, it's been a few days since I posted last. Y'all will need to forgive me if that happens sometimes...I've got alot going on with school, and if I get free time on the computer, I've got to make it. (Tip: Don't go to college unless you've got to! Example: if your parents want you to, then you must honor them, especially if you are still living under their roof, you are still under their authority, otherwise, don't do it! just a piece of friendly advice... :) )
Today though, I did get to ride my bicycle up to my grandparent's house and pick up pecans under the trees in their yard. That was very enjoyable since I've not gotten to get out in this lovely weather much! And I can just taste the pecan pies! My mom's sister (well, one of my mom's sisters ;) ) makes the best pecan pie you ever ate! Pecans are so much fun to have on hand too, when you just want a nice wholesome snack to munch during a family visit!
We figured out last year that in some cases, like if there are really alot on the ground and we're trying to grab them up in a hurry ( ;) ), it's alot easier to just gather them in our skirts than to try to crawl around, pick up nuts, and drag around a bucket all at the same time!
It's better to just hold your skirt with one hand, and pick with the other! (Just another free tip by the way, you haven't got to pay for that one either ;) !)
Well, I hate to run, but that's really all I have time for - I've got to get ready for church. I did want to at least "touch base", as my mom likes to say :), though.
Take care!
Today though, I did get to ride my bicycle up to my grandparent's house and pick up pecans under the trees in their yard. That was very enjoyable since I've not gotten to get out in this lovely weather much! And I can just taste the pecan pies! My mom's sister (well, one of my mom's sisters ;) ) makes the best pecan pie you ever ate! Pecans are so much fun to have on hand too, when you just want a nice wholesome snack to munch during a family visit!
We figured out last year that in some cases, like if there are really alot on the ground and we're trying to grab them up in a hurry ( ;) ), it's alot easier to just gather them in our skirts than to try to crawl around, pick up nuts, and drag around a bucket all at the same time!
It's better to just hold your skirt with one hand, and pick with the other! (Just another free tip by the way, you haven't got to pay for that one either ;) !)
Well, I hate to run, but that's really all I have time for - I've got to get ready for church. I did want to at least "touch base", as my mom likes to say :), though.
Take care!
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Sunday Morning!
Good morning everyone! Oh my, such a beautiful, glorious Sunday morning-with just a little bit of a 'nip' in the air! Oh how I love the autumn time!
I'd like to start out the morning and this post with one of my favorite Scripture passages: Rom. 8:24-28 -
"For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?
But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but tht Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose."
I think that is one of the most encouraging and beautiful passages in the Bible, and I just wanted to share it with you this morning!
And now, I discovered that I have been tagged by my friend Hannah! (visit her fun and encouraging blog, Stepping Heavenward) So I will now take a little time and fill it out!
1. Do you like to write?
I like to write stories, letters, on my blog, and several other ways!
2. Favorite books?
All the books in the Bible, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Scottish Chiefs, Little Men, lots more - I love, love, love to read! (any good suggestions?)
3. Do you compose music/write songs?
A little, I love good music, and have composed and written a little bit, nothing has ever been put on paper though.
4. Do you like poetry?
Certain kinds. Some poetry can be silly or depressing. I love Rudyard Kipling's poem, "If", to his son. Good, thought-provoking stuff like that is what I enjoy.
5. Love someone so much who made you cry?
Oh yes!
6. Broken a bone?
Nope, thank the Lord, well, I may have broken my toe once when I jumped into a pool with it being too shallow (it sure felt broken!), but I don't think that really counts.
7.Been in a police car?
Nope!
8.Been on a boat?
Yes, a couple of times. Once when I was real little, my family went out on a lake, and once a few years ago, we went fishing in a friend's boat, then I've been out lots of times on the ponds around where we live.
9.Fallen asleep in school?
Yes...
10. Did you sing today?
Oh yes! This morning as I put away dishes, I was singing a song that's going to be in our Chrismas choir special at church.
11.KFC, Popeyes, or Church's?
I've had Kentucky Fried Chicken a couple of times...We don't really 'eat out'
12.Chick-fil-a or What-a-burger?
Never been to What-a-burger, I support Chick-fil-A because it was started by a saved man, and he refuse to stay open on Sunday, even though the businesses around him said it would hurt them (but it didn't, so he won!), but as I said, we don't really do resturant food much...
13.Starbucks of McCafe?
NO! Coffee? Yuk! And it's bad for you!
14.What's your favorite time of year?
FALL!! Yay! (Love the Fall - ;D )
15.Do you ever talk to yourself?
Oh yes!! I am always talking to myself (usually the stories I like to write in my head), or out loud to no one in particular, or praying softly out loud as I go about my day.
16.Do you have a favorite treat you like to buy on occasion?
Um, not really...We like to make stuff though!
17. Do you believe the Bible is the literal Word of God and is infallible?
ABSOLUTELY
18. What's your favorite sport?
I've never really been a sports person - though I have begun to enjoy football (ever seen Facing the Giants? :D)
19. What color is your ipod?
Uh...Don't have one!
20. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
SCOTLAND!
21.If you could go to any fictional place, where would you go?
Wow... Hmm, how soon have you got to have the answer...?
22.Do you love to write or do you just like writing? Or do you write at all?
Yes, but not really for school, 'cause then there is a deadline, and I do better if I'm able to just let it flow when it comes.
23.What do you want to be when you’re a grown up?
A missionary.
24.Favorite animal?
Horses! But I like lots of other animals too. I really like dragonflies...!
25. Favorite song?
Oh wow! That's hard! I just recently heard a song for the first time when our quartet sang it at church -"Prayer is just as big as God is, prayer is just as strong as God is strong, prayer can reach as far as God can reach-don't ever give up, just pray!"
That's the chorus, and I really loved that song! A couple of my favorite hymns are "Sitting at the Feet of Jesus", "Be Thou My Vision", "I Must Tell Jesus", and "Have Faith in God". I have lots of songs I love!
26.Do you like school?
I love to learn, but I'd rather learn by doing - I really hate textbook work. Like if I'm studying History, say, I'd love to visit Gettysburg, or if it's Science, I'd rather go to a lake or creek, and collect samples. That sort of thing
27.Are you a people person?
Yes, oh yes, I love people!
28. Do you like to talk?
Depends who I'm talking to, how well and long I have known them, and how much we have in common.
29.Favorite food?
Good old down-home Southern cooking!
30.Hobbies?
Oh wow! Lots of hobbies! See my profile under interests for a scratch on the surface :)
31.Favorite author?
My God my Father who wrote the most wonderful book of all, George MacDonald, ... (see my list of favorite books)
32. Favorite weapon?
The Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, a Scottish broadsword, Historic American muskets and rifles.
33.Is this a fun tag or are you getting bored?
It's pretty fun actually.
34.Do you like Hannah Montana and all those girly people and movies like Highschool Musical?
Yuk! Never seen them, don't want to, don't care. Just pray for them.
35.What are you scared of?
Satan, failure, letting my Lord and/or my friends down.
36. Favorite flower?
Oh I just love them all! I love plants and the outdoors!
37.What is the expression on your face?
Thoughtful as I'm typing, I smiled when I read the question!
38. Color of your eyes?
The color of the sky as a thunderstorm is coming on, with the top half of my left eye sort of a caramel color. I love my eyes!
BTW, that's another hobby of mine - studying people's eyes. They say that a person's eyes are the windows into their soul, and many times, I have thought it's true.
Well, I must go for now, anyone who wants to do this tag can.
Time for breakfast and then to Sunday School! Catch y'all later! Take care!
I'd like to start out the morning and this post with one of my favorite Scripture passages: Rom. 8:24-28 -
"For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?
But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but tht Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose."
I think that is one of the most encouraging and beautiful passages in the Bible, and I just wanted to share it with you this morning!
And now, I discovered that I have been tagged by my friend Hannah! (visit her fun and encouraging blog, Stepping Heavenward) So I will now take a little time and fill it out!
1. Do you like to write?
I like to write stories, letters, on my blog, and several other ways!
2. Favorite books?
All the books in the Bible, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Scottish Chiefs, Little Men, lots more - I love, love, love to read! (any good suggestions?)
3. Do you compose music/write songs?
A little, I love good music, and have composed and written a little bit, nothing has ever been put on paper though.
4. Do you like poetry?
Certain kinds. Some poetry can be silly or depressing. I love Rudyard Kipling's poem, "If", to his son. Good, thought-provoking stuff like that is what I enjoy.
5. Love someone so much who made you cry?
Oh yes!
6. Broken a bone?
Nope, thank the Lord, well, I may have broken my toe once when I jumped into a pool with it being too shallow (it sure felt broken!), but I don't think that really counts.
7.Been in a police car?
Nope!
8.Been on a boat?
Yes, a couple of times. Once when I was real little, my family went out on a lake, and once a few years ago, we went fishing in a friend's boat, then I've been out lots of times on the ponds around where we live.
9.Fallen asleep in school?
Yes...
10. Did you sing today?
Oh yes! This morning as I put away dishes, I was singing a song that's going to be in our Chrismas choir special at church.
11.KFC, Popeyes, or Church's?
I've had Kentucky Fried Chicken a couple of times...We don't really 'eat out'
12.Chick-fil-a or What-a-burger?
Never been to What-a-burger, I support Chick-fil-A because it was started by a saved man, and he refuse to stay open on Sunday, even though the businesses around him said it would hurt them (but it didn't, so he won!), but as I said, we don't really do resturant food much...
13.Starbucks of McCafe?
NO! Coffee? Yuk! And it's bad for you!
14.What's your favorite time of year?
FALL!! Yay! (Love the Fall - ;D )
15.Do you ever talk to yourself?
Oh yes!! I am always talking to myself (usually the stories I like to write in my head), or out loud to no one in particular, or praying softly out loud as I go about my day.
16.Do you have a favorite treat you like to buy on occasion?
Um, not really...We like to make stuff though!
17. Do you believe the Bible is the literal Word of God and is infallible?
ABSOLUTELY
18. What's your favorite sport?
I've never really been a sports person - though I have begun to enjoy football (ever seen Facing the Giants? :D)
19. What color is your ipod?
Uh...Don't have one!
20. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
SCOTLAND!
21.If you could go to any fictional place, where would you go?
Wow... Hmm, how soon have you got to have the answer...?
22.Do you love to write or do you just like writing? Or do you write at all?
Yes, but not really for school, 'cause then there is a deadline, and I do better if I'm able to just let it flow when it comes.
23.What do you want to be when you’re a grown up?
A missionary.
24.Favorite animal?
Horses! But I like lots of other animals too. I really like dragonflies...!
25. Favorite song?
Oh wow! That's hard! I just recently heard a song for the first time when our quartet sang it at church -"Prayer is just as big as God is, prayer is just as strong as God is strong, prayer can reach as far as God can reach-don't ever give up, just pray!"
That's the chorus, and I really loved that song! A couple of my favorite hymns are "Sitting at the Feet of Jesus", "Be Thou My Vision", "I Must Tell Jesus", and "Have Faith in God". I have lots of songs I love!
26.Do you like school?
I love to learn, but I'd rather learn by doing - I really hate textbook work. Like if I'm studying History, say, I'd love to visit Gettysburg, or if it's Science, I'd rather go to a lake or creek, and collect samples. That sort of thing
27.Are you a people person?
Yes, oh yes, I love people!
28. Do you like to talk?
Depends who I'm talking to, how well and long I have known them, and how much we have in common.
29.Favorite food?
Good old down-home Southern cooking!
30.Hobbies?
Oh wow! Lots of hobbies! See my profile under interests for a scratch on the surface :)
31.Favorite author?
My God my Father who wrote the most wonderful book of all, George MacDonald, ... (see my list of favorite books)
32. Favorite weapon?
The Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, a Scottish broadsword, Historic American muskets and rifles.
33.Is this a fun tag or are you getting bored?
It's pretty fun actually.
34.Do you like Hannah Montana and all those girly people and movies like Highschool Musical?
Yuk! Never seen them, don't want to, don't care. Just pray for them.
35.What are you scared of?
Satan, failure, letting my Lord and/or my friends down.
36. Favorite flower?
Oh I just love them all! I love plants and the outdoors!
37.What is the expression on your face?
Thoughtful as I'm typing, I smiled when I read the question!
38. Color of your eyes?
The color of the sky as a thunderstorm is coming on, with the top half of my left eye sort of a caramel color. I love my eyes!
BTW, that's another hobby of mine - studying people's eyes. They say that a person's eyes are the windows into their soul, and many times, I have thought it's true.
Well, I must go for now, anyone who wants to do this tag can.
Time for breakfast and then to Sunday School! Catch y'all later! Take care!
Friday, November 6, 2009
Last Saturday's Sing
Ok, I'm finally getting to tell about last Saturday. Those of you who know much about me, know I love good, old-fashioned, Southern Gospel quartet music! Well, Sat. we had a quartet come to our church and sing - on Halloween no less! I thought that was pretty smart of the people who planned it! - encourage people to go to church and hear God's truths proclaimed in song, instead of participating (even innocently) in a satanic-like holiday. But anyway, a local quartet (of which three of our men are members) 'opened up' for them. Bro. Dennis sings tenor, Bro. Blake (who is 6'7" tall, and nicknamed "Tiny" :D ) plays the drums (but he's good - not like the kind of music you're probably thinking of that involves drums), and Bro. Jack sings bass. And if you think Bro. Dennis is a blast, whoowee boys and girls! you get Bro. Dennis and Bro. Jack together ... hold onto your socks, 'cause you're in for some side-splitting hillarity!
If you're one of those people (like me) who likes to visualize characters or people your reading about, picture 'Mr. Clean', except with blond eyebrows and goatee, a kinder smile, and no gold earring, and you'd pretty much have Bro. Jack. He and Bro. Dennis are about the same height, roughly 5'9', and are pretty close to the same age (early-mid thirties), and they both are wonderful singers.
The group had been practicing for weeks, getting ready to do this, but when we heard Bro. Dennis was sick, we didn't know if they'd get to sing or not. We should have known he would not have let his end down! And sure enough, he was there and sang his heart out. I was just sure he was going to collapse any minute. He did great though - Dad and Mom said they couldn't tell any difference at all! Trissy and I could tell, 'cause we are around him more, I guess. They sang beautifully, and my grandmother (Mom's parents came with us) said she liked them better than the other group, who has had more experience!
The whole evening was so enjoyable! That's been a week ago tonight, and I was sure I'd get it told about before now (I've left out so much I had wanted to record) - but I stay so busy with college (I really don't like school :{ ) I don't get much of a chance to get on the computer "just for fun".
Well, tomorrow is Sunday, so I'm really looking forward to a day of rest ;) !
Take care! Until next time...
SOLI DEO GLORIA!
If you're one of those people (like me) who likes to visualize characters or people your reading about, picture 'Mr. Clean', except with blond eyebrows and goatee, a kinder smile, and no gold earring, and you'd pretty much have Bro. Jack. He and Bro. Dennis are about the same height, roughly 5'9', and are pretty close to the same age (early-mid thirties), and they both are wonderful singers.
The group had been practicing for weeks, getting ready to do this, but when we heard Bro. Dennis was sick, we didn't know if they'd get to sing or not. We should have known he would not have let his end down! And sure enough, he was there and sang his heart out. I was just sure he was going to collapse any minute. He did great though - Dad and Mom said they couldn't tell any difference at all! Trissy and I could tell, 'cause we are around him more, I guess. They sang beautifully, and my grandmother (Mom's parents came with us) said she liked them better than the other group, who has had more experience!
The whole evening was so enjoyable! That's been a week ago tonight, and I was sure I'd get it told about before now (I've left out so much I had wanted to record) - but I stay so busy with college (I really don't like school :{ ) I don't get much of a chance to get on the computer "just for fun".
Well, tomorrow is Sunday, so I'm really looking forward to a day of rest ;) !
Take care! Until next time...
SOLI DEO GLORIA!
Feminine Farmgirl: Of Right and Wrong
This post is just to provide a link to a very good post I read on another young lady's blog. Please take the time to read it, and leave Jenna a comment letting her know what you think. I thought it was excellent. Link: Feminine Farmgirl: Of Right and Wrong
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Ho Hum... But oh well!
Well, my sister Trissy is sick, so she couldn't go to church and I told Dad and Mom I'd stay with her and they could go together. Their class lets out earlier than the young people's class, so it just made sense for them to go, and us to stay, that way no one would be waiting on anyone. But I got some of the 'news' from them :) . Bro. Dennis was there and evidently back to his normal self. Dad is not one to talk alot, but when I asked him if there was anything interesting he wanted to tell that happened in the men's class, he said, "It just does me good to see all those boys there. ... it comforts me to know the world is a better place because of people like that.", and I believe I quote. It did my heart good to hear him say that! He's not one to express his deeper feelings just because they are there! He only tells them if he's asked or if it's something he feels compeled to voice because of some relevant issue. And he had never really told his over-all feeling about what he thinks about this church. But that let me know, even if he's not as 'verbose' in his praise, he still loves it. *BTW, when he says "boys", he means any man younger than him or near his age :).*
Oh man, sorry, I've got to go for now. Seems I am always getting interrupted before I get a topic or thought finished. But anyway, Lord willing I can post some more later, maybe tommorrow.
Oh man, sorry, I've got to go for now. Seems I am always getting interrupted before I get a topic or thought finished. But anyway, Lord willing I can post some more later, maybe tommorrow.
Bro. Dennis, Mrs. Carrie, and "Swu"
I'm so glad it's Wednesday!! We'll get to go to church tonight! Ok, that probably sounds put-on and gushy, but I assure you it's not. I love to be at Victory Rd.! Often I wish I could just go and sit in the auditorium, just to be there. The atmosphere of sincerity, love, and worship seems to linger in the air even when there is nobody there. Anyway, maybe tonight I can find out if Bro. Dennis is well yet.
Bro. Dennis is Bro. Earl's oldest son. He's 34 and teaches the college Sunday School class, is the associate pastor, he's in charge of music, and a hundred other things, it seems. He is amazing - he's like an encyclopedia when it comes to the Bible, music, and (I have a feeling) alot of other things as well. He works as a counselor at a drug and alchohol rehab, and the stress he's under from being in such a spiritually 'dirty' environment is unbelievable. But he doesn't talk about it much, and you would never guess it, if you hadn't heard and didn't know. He is probably the biggest tease I've ever met in my life! He loves to pick on people, but he's the kind of person who's just such an honor to even know, that you find yourself wanting him to pick on you, 'cause you know that if he teases you, that means he likes you! It's so funny to see him and his wife, Mrs. Carrie, together though! She is real calm and sophisticated and stately (but not at all stuck-up or anything! She's wonderful, you've just got to get to know how to 'read' her) and he is so boisterous and hillareous, and always joking or teasing. I guess opposites really do attract, as they say. Their story is really neat too. They are 5 years apart, but he's liked her ever since she was 15, so he just waited for her, and when she was old enough, they got married! I love them both so much. One sad thing though, is that they don't have any children. They've been married about 7 years, I think, and they lost one baby, but they both love kids, and my sister and I (and some others) have been praying for the Lord to give them children. If you want to help us, that would be wonderful! Whenever you think about it. We also set aside a time to pray at 8:30, A.M. and P.M., specifically for this. I have this feeling that He will, but He's just wanting to teach me patience. It's something I want so much for them, and I think He just wants to see if I am willing to just trust Him and wait on His timing.
That's kindof swerving off the original subject, but now you know two more of the special characters in this story. :)
Anyway, in class last Wednesday (the young people meet together on Wednesday nights for their own class) we heard that both of them had the Swine Flu, but Mrs. Carrie didn't have it as bad evidently, cause she was at church Saturday (I'll explain that in another post) and acted like she was fine. Sunday, though, Bro. Dennis wasn't at church cause he was still so bad sick, and his mother Mrs. Shannen (who works at the clinic) had gotten it from him, so she wasn't able to be there either! So maybe tonight we can find out how they are. That makes 6 people at church who have had Swine Flu, or "Swu" as Tanner (the younger brother of one of the young men in our Sun. School class) likes to call it ;) Hope nobody else gets it!
Bro. Dennis is Bro. Earl's oldest son. He's 34 and teaches the college Sunday School class, is the associate pastor, he's in charge of music, and a hundred other things, it seems. He is amazing - he's like an encyclopedia when it comes to the Bible, music, and (I have a feeling) alot of other things as well. He works as a counselor at a drug and alchohol rehab, and the stress he's under from being in such a spiritually 'dirty' environment is unbelievable. But he doesn't talk about it much, and you would never guess it, if you hadn't heard and didn't know. He is probably the biggest tease I've ever met in my life! He loves to pick on people, but he's the kind of person who's just such an honor to even know, that you find yourself wanting him to pick on you, 'cause you know that if he teases you, that means he likes you! It's so funny to see him and his wife, Mrs. Carrie, together though! She is real calm and sophisticated and stately (but not at all stuck-up or anything! She's wonderful, you've just got to get to know how to 'read' her) and he is so boisterous and hillareous, and always joking or teasing. I guess opposites really do attract, as they say. Their story is really neat too. They are 5 years apart, but he's liked her ever since she was 15, so he just waited for her, and when she was old enough, they got married! I love them both so much. One sad thing though, is that they don't have any children. They've been married about 7 years, I think, and they lost one baby, but they both love kids, and my sister and I (and some others) have been praying for the Lord to give them children. If you want to help us, that would be wonderful! Whenever you think about it. We also set aside a time to pray at 8:30, A.M. and P.M., specifically for this. I have this feeling that He will, but He's just wanting to teach me patience. It's something I want so much for them, and I think He just wants to see if I am willing to just trust Him and wait on His timing.
That's kindof swerving off the original subject, but now you know two more of the special characters in this story. :)
Anyway, in class last Wednesday (the young people meet together on Wednesday nights for their own class) we heard that both of them had the Swine Flu, but Mrs. Carrie didn't have it as bad evidently, cause she was at church Saturday (I'll explain that in another post) and acted like she was fine. Sunday, though, Bro. Dennis wasn't at church cause he was still so bad sick, and his mother Mrs. Shannen (who works at the clinic) had gotten it from him, so she wasn't able to be there either! So maybe tonight we can find out how they are. That makes 6 people at church who have had Swine Flu, or "Swu" as Tanner (the younger brother of one of the young men in our Sun. School class) likes to call it ;) Hope nobody else gets it!
VRCA, finishing a thought
Ok sorry, I kind of got interrupted there. Anyway, Bro. Earl is so neat. He's 56, and has got two kids, (one of which is the Sunday School teacher for our college class - but more on him later) so he's really good as a pastor - he's like this father figure with alot of experience. But he's got this great sense of humor, and loves to tease. He's great! I love it when I run into him at the school, cause he always has something funny and encouraging to say. And he's got these bright blue eyes that snap and sparkle at you from behind his glasses when he's discussing some deep theological idea - which he's found out my sister, Trissy, and I love to do. So, needless to say, he enjoys talking with us cause we love talking about the Bible!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Working at Victory Road Christian Academy
Our church also has a Christian school in town, and I work with another girl in 'after-care' - where the kids can stay after school until their parents or someone can come and pick them up, if the parents can't be there to get them right when school lets out. It's a good job, really. I'm so grateful to have a job, and especially in that type of Christian environment! It is hard though sometimes, 'cause many of the kids were not raised like I have been, and there are a couple who are just blatantly disobedient and disrespectful. Their parents are divorced, and they don't get consistent, loving care and discipline at 'home' (if you could call it that), so I can hardly blame them. It's just hard to know how to deal with it in an appropriate way when they are rude to me. Well, well, enough of the melancholy! Bro. Earl - our pastor - is also the principle, so sometimes I see him when I'm there, and he is so fun that it always perks me up!
How Do I Start?
I'm at a lost as to how to start! I'll just start right in on the actual journalling, and describe the individual people as I go, I guess, though I'd really like to start out giving a detailed description of the appearance and personality of each person to begin with! One of my hobbies is writing fiction (just for my own enjoyment, not to publish or anything-at least not yet) and I guess that's where the urge to begin at the beginning and solidify each character as I go along comes from. But you've already missed the beginning of the story! And I can't go back and tell all that has happened from then 'til now, especially in order - my memory is just not that good! :)
Monday, November 2, 2009
The People Make The Place
You've just got to understand that it's the people who give the church it's spirit - after all, the people are the church! I guess that's what drew me right off - the spirit. The people wanted to be there; they wanted to worship God and learn about Him! It was a growing, breathing, alive place! A place where God was honored, and things were happening. Victory Rd. wasn't one of those 'dead' churches - it was alive and growing! I loved it there - still do! :)
A Little History...
Hello there! Can't believe I've only posted once! I was so anxious to get this started! I've been pretty busy with college, and just haven't gotten a chance.
Wow! It's kind of hard to just jump in... you'd need to know my life's history for the past 10 months or so to understand all I'm saying and feeling. Guess I'll just start and try to explain, as best I can, those 10 months - in a nutshell.
In September, I believe, of last year (2008) the pastor of the church my family were members of felt (for various reasons that I won't go into detail on just now) that the Lord was telling him it was time to move on, so he resigned as pastor. It was really hard... especially since his wife is my mom's cousin (making their kids mine and my sister's cousins) and we were/are really close to them. I don't have any brothers, but I've always wanted them, and Ben (the oldest of the two boys, and the third child, but almost ten years younger than me) and I have always been close, best friends really, and I always called him my "adopted little brother" :) . We'd all gotten used to seeing each other and fellowshipping three times a week! Before we joined there, it seemed like we all never got to see each other enough. And Cousin Jonathan was such a dedicated, hard-working, deep-stuff preacher, it seemed that each service, I always came away with something 'deep' and new to ponder and think about. Anyway, long story short, it was really hard when things as we knew them were no longer that way. Cousin Jonathan and them went to a church near where they live, and eventually joined there, after visiting for quite a while, and feeling like that was where the Lord would have them settle. But us? Well, all I can say is that there followed for my family about five painful months of visiting church after church, or sometimes having 'church' alone in our house because it was just so emotionally, physically, and/or spiritually exhausting to keep 'being burnt' at every place we'd visit. 'Burnt' in the sense that each place we'd go, there was something that wasn't quite right about it, and we just couldn't all feel the Lord leading us to "that one either."
Finally in February, one Saturday afternoon at lunch, I think it was, we were considering (again) where we would go to church the next morning. Then Dad mentioned a church in town (we live about 7 miles out in the country) and asked if we'd all feel like trying there. It was right under our nose! I still don't know why we hadn't thought to visit there long before then. But when Dad mentioned it, the rest of us were just about ready to try any suggestion, once anyway. So that's what we did. That first Sunday we just went to morning service, just to see. Looking back, it makes me laugh to think of my first impressions! I had been disappointed soooo many times, that at this point, I was just about automatically finding things to pick on - not intentionally, just, well, I was afraid to hope. On our way back to the house after the morning church service, we all agreed that it was worth going again, "just to see". So next Sunday found us there again. And the next. Then we started going for evening service and Sunday school as well. By the second Sunday though, I knew Victory Road Baptist Church was my home.
Wow! It's kind of hard to just jump in... you'd need to know my life's history for the past 10 months or so to understand all I'm saying and feeling. Guess I'll just start and try to explain, as best I can, those 10 months - in a nutshell.
In September, I believe, of last year (2008) the pastor of the church my family were members of felt (for various reasons that I won't go into detail on just now) that the Lord was telling him it was time to move on, so he resigned as pastor. It was really hard... especially since his wife is my mom's cousin (making their kids mine and my sister's cousins) and we were/are really close to them. I don't have any brothers, but I've always wanted them, and Ben (the oldest of the two boys, and the third child, but almost ten years younger than me) and I have always been close, best friends really, and I always called him my "adopted little brother" :) . We'd all gotten used to seeing each other and fellowshipping three times a week! Before we joined there, it seemed like we all never got to see each other enough. And Cousin Jonathan was such a dedicated, hard-working, deep-stuff preacher, it seemed that each service, I always came away with something 'deep' and new to ponder and think about. Anyway, long story short, it was really hard when things as we knew them were no longer that way. Cousin Jonathan and them went to a church near where they live, and eventually joined there, after visiting for quite a while, and feeling like that was where the Lord would have them settle. But us? Well, all I can say is that there followed for my family about five painful months of visiting church after church, or sometimes having 'church' alone in our house because it was just so emotionally, physically, and/or spiritually exhausting to keep 'being burnt' at every place we'd visit. 'Burnt' in the sense that each place we'd go, there was something that wasn't quite right about it, and we just couldn't all feel the Lord leading us to "that one either."
Finally in February, one Saturday afternoon at lunch, I think it was, we were considering (again) where we would go to church the next morning. Then Dad mentioned a church in town (we live about 7 miles out in the country) and asked if we'd all feel like trying there. It was right under our nose! I still don't know why we hadn't thought to visit there long before then. But when Dad mentioned it, the rest of us were just about ready to try any suggestion, once anyway. So that's what we did. That first Sunday we just went to morning service, just to see. Looking back, it makes me laugh to think of my first impressions! I had been disappointed soooo many times, that at this point, I was just about automatically finding things to pick on - not intentionally, just, well, I was afraid to hope. On our way back to the house after the morning church service, we all agreed that it was worth going again, "just to see". So next Sunday found us there again. And the next. Then we started going for evening service and Sunday school as well. By the second Sunday though, I knew Victory Road Baptist Church was my home.
Monday, October 26, 2009
(The Middle of) the Beginning
Hi, Kyrie here, and no, I'm not Catholic. A life, as anything, is simply made up of patterns of light and dark. It's in the darkness that we tend to see the need for the Mercy of the Lord, hence the title of this blog - and my name.
I am starting this blog because within the last ten months or so, the Lord has seemed to work in my life in a stronger and more pronounced way than He ever has before. I am so full of amazement at the things He has been doing (and how I suspect He will keep surprising me), that I felt I had to have an outlet for those feelings, or bust! This is my outlet. I pray it will be a blessing to all who read. It is just the beginning
I am starting this blog because within the last ten months or so, the Lord has seemed to work in my life in a stronger and more pronounced way than He ever has before. I am so full of amazement at the things He has been doing (and how I suspect He will keep surprising me), that I felt I had to have an outlet for those feelings, or bust! This is my outlet. I pray it will be a blessing to all who read. It is just the beginning
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