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.
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