Stacey's World

2009-10-29T23:40:00.002-04:00

Hello Alex, Savanna, Katie, Hailey stick to cp please.

2009-10-16T20:44:00.002-04:00

Ok, so my little girl and I went to the grocery store to get stuff for some lasagna. Was watching a mobster movie the night before and of course the infamous scene in a restaurant where they are sitting around eating pasta; made me hungry.

So the lady there was cooking up some samples, smelled good, my daughter and I went over to get a taste. It was so yummy, needless to say, I did not get stuff for lasagna.

Something this good is too good to keep to myself, so I am going to share this recipe with you.

Rosemary-Maple Pork Tenderloin

1 med. shallot
1 lb. pork tenderloin
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 tbsp canola oil
1/2 cp Marsala wine
8 oz. pre-sliced baby portabella mushrooms
2 cps beef stock
1/2 cp maple syrup
3 sprigs fresh rosemary

Remove ends and peel shallot; chop finely. Preheat large saute pan on medium-high heat 2-3 minutes. Season pork with salt and pepper (I used Everglades seasoning). Place oil in pan; swirl to coat. Add pork, cook 4-5 minutes, browning both sides. Remove pork from pan; cover to keep warm.

Remove pan from heat and add Marsala. Stir in mushrooms and shallots; cook 2-3 minutes, stirring often, or until wine has completely evaporated.

Stir in beef stock, syrup, and whole rosemary sprigs. Return pork to pan; cover and cook 10-12 minutes, or until pork reaches 155 degrees. Remove pork from pan, let stand 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Continue to cook sauce 4-5 minutes or until thickened. Slice pork into 1 inch thick slices; top with mushroom sauce.

I served this with baby potatoes. Green beans make an excellent side.

Ok, so that was my Julia Childs moment, haha. This is such an easy dinner and very pleasing to the eye, I think it would make a wonderful meal for two; if you know what I mean.

2009-10-11T20:12:00.002-04:00

Neurosis is always a substitute for legitimate suffering,
- Carl Jung

2009-10-11T09:39:00.003-04:00

I just took a Biblical profile test to see who I am the most like in the Bible. I found it to be very interesting and pretty accurate. Gonna post my results, for those of you who know me well will agree this is pretty accurate.

My Biblical Personality Style:

Inspirational & Intuitive: As an "I" style, your personality is similar to Biblical heroes like the Apostle Peter, Barnabas, Abigail and Miriam. All of these people had charisma; and with their ability to encourage and inspire others, they were popular people to be around. Peter was the natural spokesperson for the twelve apostles, Abigail went and spoke to David on behalf of her foolish husband Nabal and inspired David to take the high road in a bad situation.

Personal growth areas for the high "I" style include gaining a sense of balance in all they do since they tend to always see the positive side of things and sometimes underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead. Peter, who proclaimed he would never deny Christ, had no idea of the events that would cause him to lose his confidence, deny knowing Christ, and then feel rejected. Yet Peter regained his passion and purpose and fifty days later stood in front of thousands and boldly told of all the things that had happened. Peter quickly was regarded as one of the early church leaders, and was a great evangelist and gospel writer.

Your Personality Style Preview:
Relationships play a key role in Stacey's life, she tends to be a very trusting individual, she enjoys making new friends and developing new relationships. She often finds herself involved in many things at once and loves social functions. Stacey enjoys encouraging those around her. People see her as a person who frequently inspires others.

Neat and orderly, others usually see Stacey as practical. She needs adequate information to make decisions, and she will consider the pros and cons. She may be sensitive to criticism, and will tend to internalize her emotions. Stacey likes to clarify expectations before undertaking new projects, and she will follow a logical process to gain successful results.

Stacey prefers to work through problems by analyzing things that worked in the past. She is willing to follow another person's lead if they display adequate ability and if Stacey has confidence in their ability. She is someone who is able to lead, if necessary; but usually prefers to wait and see if another person volunteers first.

Stacey takes a flexible approach in her dealings with others and she is willing to pursue different avenues to maintain good relationships. While she is patient and will not usually rush, Stacey is not afraid to actively seek new solutions if previous methods do not fit the current situation.

If you are interested in knowing your style, you can go to www.BiblicalProfile.com
You answer some questions and they give you an analysis. You can use this for matches in relationships, work, etc...

I remember once, a long time ago, at work they had us all take a test to see what our personalities were and what field of work we should be in. I don't know, maybe they were trying to tell us something, haha. My results came back that I should be an actress or in sales. Guess what field I was in, no I was not in acting, it was sales, although there is a very close link between the two.

Sales seemed to be the only thing I was good at (at the time), I was the queen of Rolaids if you know what I am saying. I remember once thinking I wanted a "normal" job like everyone else. So, a dentist friend of mine gave me a job. He was gonna train me and help me to become a dental hygienist. Err, wrong move. Fist of all, I get grossed out really easy, I faint at the sight of blood. But I thought it would be a respectable job and I was tired of stress. My career in the dental field lasted almost 3 months. I couldn't take it anymore. It was quite the learning experience though. I went back to sales. It was what I was good at and I could still eat after work. I suspect the patients at the dental office were glad to see me go. Kinda hard to assist the dentist and hold the suction without sucking your cheeks up when you don't look directly into the mouth because you have to focus on your breathing so you don't pass out.

Guitar Hero, NYC and the Smashing Pumpkins

2009-10-07T15:17:00.004-04:00

Ok, so I have almost mastered the easy level of guitar hero. Not! haha OMG, that game is addictive. Getting my groove on, haha. My favorite song on the game is by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. At the beginning of the song it gives you a tidbit about the band playing the song. What I learned about the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, is that they are from Brooklyn (I am a NYC girl myself,upper west side)and they got their name from a common saying from New Yorkers... yeah yeah yeah... hahaha, I can so relate, I've said it a million times myself... yeah, yeah, yeah, get to the point already!

Anyhoot, I am off from school for a week. The week is almost over. It is really nice to take a breather from studying. I can not wait until this is over. Although, I will admit, I do enjoy learning new things.

So this week while I am off I thought I would pick up the ol' manuscript and do some more tweaking.

Oooh... I hear Smashing Pumpkins calling me (daughters got guitar hero going). Whatever happened to that band anyway? They were a 3 hit wonder and disappeared.

2009-09-29T23:28:00.003-04:00

It is so late, well, almost, and I am really needing to go to bed, but since I was already on the net with my homework... thought I'd touch base.

The girls and I started volunteering at the soup kitchen, one of many in Ft Lauderdale. Probably sounds ridiculous to say I enjoyed it, but I did. Savanna did too. Alex was not feeling well, but I made her come any way...just incase she was faking it, haha. I remember when I was young trying to get out of school and faking I was sick unitl miraculously when it was too late to go to school, I was healed. A miracle I tell ya!

The soup kitchen is a very good ministry. Sad and amazing how many homeless and needy people there are. Sad.

I think it is important to volunteer, especially with my children. It is an eye opener, helps to teach compassion and gives appreciation for the blessings that we do have, even when they go unnoticed because we get so tied up with what we "want".

When I talked to the girls about volunteering, I reminded them of what Jesus said, when He was hungry, naked, sick and in prison, we took care of Him, and that is what we are doing when we help others. We are the hands of God.

I personally feel like I have been on a neverending rollercoaster of emotions and frustrations. I am reminded when I feel my best, is when I am helping others. Now that is a sense of purpose and we all have a purpose. What's yours?

My 9 Old Daughters Phiolsophy on Why Girls Are Better Than Boys

2009-09-18T00:08:00.003-04:00

"Because girls can do it in high heels and dresses"

2009-09-17T23:31:00.004-04:00

A friend of mine shared this story with me, I thought it worth repeating, so here is my attempt of repeating this without messing it up.

A guy was walking down a street and fell into a huge hole. In the darkness of the hole he barely had room to stand and could feel the sides of the hole around him. It was a very deep hole, about 30 feet. Up above he could see light and people walking over the hole.

He yelled for help until finally a minister happened by. "Is someone down there?" yelled the minister.

"Yes," the man yelled, "I have fallen down this hole and I need help."

"Well," replied the minister, "I will go pray for help for you."

Then the minister left. The man waited and waited, but the minister never came back. So the man began to yell for help again.

Finally another man stopped. "Is someone down there?"

"Yes! I have fallen into this hole and I need help."

"I'll go get a ladder."

Once again the man waited and waited, but the man never came back with the ladder.He began to lose hope. The minister said he would pray about it, but no help came. The guy went to get a ladder, but he never came back either.

"Help! Help!"

Another man heard him yell. "Is someone down there?"

"Yes! I have fallen into this hole and I can not get out, I need help!"

"I'll help you" the man yelled back and then jumped into the hole with him.

"Why did you jump into the hole with me? You were suppose to go get help, now we are both stuck." The man was dumbfounded.

"I am going to help you," the man answered, "I, too, have fallen into this hole before. Follow me, I know the way out."

Now I can really go on a preach here, but I won't. I am sure you can all see the message behind this story. We have all fallen into holes sometime in our lives. Some of us more than once.

So, why is it that when some of us get out of a hole, we are too afraid or reluctant to help someone else out? We have all been there and if we were fortunate enough to find our way out, then lend a hand and be a guide to someone else and help them out.

If you are still in that hole, keep yelling for help, don't give up, because someone will hear your call and they will be willing to get a little dirty to help you climb out of that hole.

Ok, that was my deep moment of the day. Be encouraged and keep on keeping on.

2009-09-16T16:49:00.003-04:00

Ok, so I got my new glasses today. I am learning how to hold my head so that I can read or look up without distortion or dizziness. So... if you see me walking with my nose in the air or staring at my feet, I am just trying to adjust my eyes so I can see. Bi-focals... they are not just for old people!

My friend got a ticket from one of those cameras. She did not come to a complete stop apparently. Now how can ya go to court and argue that one? That is kinda like cheating isn't it? I guess the playing field has been leveled between the big breasted woman and the rest of us... no offense meant, but I think we all know what I mean. I say this in good humor. See previous post for my disclosure on my warped sense of humor.

2009-09-14T10:04:00.002-04:00

My sister text and said Lilly was missing me and the girls. So... did she just now realize we are gone? haha. Brandy, hold her up to the screen and show her her picture with the girls. We miss you guys too!

About Steve

2009-09-13T20:42:00.002-04:00

If you want a really good laugh, go see About Steve with Sandra Bullock. I mean Sandra Bullock is in the movie, not go see it with her... unless you know her, then ok, go see it with her. The movie was hysterical. It is about girl who is set up on a blind date with this guy, Steve, the date only lasted about 7 minutes, but the rest of the movie she is convinced they are meant to be. Of course, I have been known to have a warped sense of humor, but I am sure you will laugh.

Her character was written a bit exaggerated, but anyone who has been single and feelin' somewhat desperate, will see the humor in this.

Have you ever wanted something so badly and for so long that when you are finally within reach, you screw it up, because you grasp and cling to it like it is going to disappear at any moment? No? Ok, maybe it is just me...

2009-09-13T20:38:00.001-04:00

Steve & Darty, ok Steve, the dog is a chick magnet, work it! Ok, maybe not with the angry looking lady in the background...

2009-09-13T20:23:00.005-04:00

Frank and Linda are always a laugh...

Threw the kiss in when TJ's girlfriend was ready to take the pic...

Dawna (AKA Thelma), Stephanie, Me (AKA Louise)

2009-09-12T00:27:00.002-04:00

Tonight I introduce my girls to The Fly. Not the original with Vincent Price, the one with Jeff Goldblum. I love watching those sci-fi movies. My girls think they are corny, and they are, but very entertaining.

So I talked to my friend James tonight on the phone. He is so funny. He called a week ago and left a message that he would be waiting by the phone for me to call him back, so a few days later I finally call him back. Got his answering machine, I said, "uh, James, you are suppose to be by the phone." So, tonight he calls me back and says he was waiting for a week by the phone, and just when he had to step out for supplies, I called him back. He is so funny. I enjoy talking with him, he is a great encouragement for me in my studies. Tonight our discussion was on the death penalty and preemptory challenges. Very stimulating.

Speaking of which, take a look at my post below for the meeting coming up for Amnesty International.

So, I learned how to post pictures, oooh technology. I think tomorrow, which is today, I am gonna post some pictures from my trip up north.

Ok, the movie starts in 14 minutes, gotta run... "help me, help me..." (in a small fly voice)

2009-09-11T22:31:00.001-04:00

Ok Trey, as per your request... the camera adds a few pounds and years remember.

2009-09-11T11:43:00.002-04:00

Free Panel Discussion About the Death Penalty

Does it violate human rights? Is it cost-effective? A necessary method of social control?

Learn more! Share your thoughts! Ask questions! Get involved!

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

6:00-8:00 p.m

Barry University—Andreas Hall 111

Free food and beverages (while supplies last)

Sponsored By: Amnesty International-Broward and Miami

How Did That Happen?

2009-09-10T09:20:00.004-04:00

Ok, so the girls and I finally get to the eye doctor. The doctor (who by the way looks like my sons aga, haha) exams our eyes and then has me watch a video about what happens to the eyes after 40. Whoa! How did that happen? Funny, I don't feel my age.

Apparently, like everything else on a woman's body, your eyesight goes down hill after 40 too.

I always thought bi-focals were for the elderly. Guess what I am going to be wearing...

Anyway, after picking out my frames, and I got some really cool ones too, I decide I need a new hairstyle to go with the new eyes. My usual girl was off and I was desperate so I tried a new guy. Now ladies, we all can relate to the fear of going to a new person to cut your hair. But my glasses will not be in for a week, so if he messes up, it can grow out some before I am able to see it.

I sit down, he throws the cape over me, and I say, "Go short! Think Annie Lennox and go for it." And he did! I watched him cut away so fast, without any hesitance and I knew I was gonna like it. I love it! That guy is a keeper.

Sometimes it is fun to just go out and do something different, something fresh. Day in and day out of the same ol' stuff can get very boring. Sometimes you just gotta do it!

2009-09-07T10:37:00.003-04:00

Labor Day Monday. Now this is one of those days where I really miss my friends and family. Up north this would be the last holiday that I could look forward to planning a day for a picnic with friends. The last day of (real) summer hoorah.

Remember the picnics of our youth with our many cousins? Food and games and alot of laughing. Chicken fights in the water and card games at the picnic table. Good times.

Speaking of card games, I did have a blast playing cards during my visit back home. Uncle Picky and I are were partners. hahahaha He is hilarious. My mother and Shirley were partners and I think there were times they wanted to slap us. I think we may have won one game, but we will deny that in public and say we won them all. There are no sore losers when you do not admit to losing.

My mom is coming down for Thanksgiving and I am so looking forward to it. I am hoping Royce (Uncle Picky, a nickname earned) and Shirley come too, a rematch around my kitchen table would be so nice.

The sun is out this morning, so I think we should throw our suits on and hit the pool. A sunny morning does not mean there will be no rain in the afternoon.

Can"t believe we have been down here in Southern Florida for a year already. I have been fortunate enough to have to experience any hurricanes (yet). Let me tell ya, some of these thunderstorms scare the crap outa me. The lightening is so fierce and the thunder shakes the house. I am not looking forward to a hurricane, which I am sure if I stay here for any length of time I will get to experience. If you are a betting person, go ahead and put your money on me hiding in a closet and crying and possibly with wet pants. Yep, I am a chicken. I suppose for my girls I will be brave, but you can bet inside I will be shaking.

On that note, gonna get some sun before the clouds roll in. Have a great Labor Day!

2009-09-05T22:47:00.002-04:00

I turned 42 today. Wow! Seems like yesterday I was singing to Donny and Marie with my cousin and skating in her basement to Aretha Franklin. Wow, where does the time go? haha Now I am watching my kids do the goofy things I used to do when I was their age. Yep, Mom, I had kids just like me.

Of course my birthday was not complete until I had my chocolate cake with peanut butter icing, and the girls did an excellent job. Yum!

I wanted to go to some art galleries today, but the girls are sick, so we stayed in. Hopefully they will feel better tomorrow. It was kinda cloudy today, so it was not a bad thing to stay in. Finished up on school work, had shrimp for dinner, and now we are watching some movies. It is a girls night. The girls and I love girls night. It is a chance to cuddle up, have some pop corn and watch movies, preferably comedies. Can you guess who the first one asleep is?

2009-09-03T21:21:00.001-04:00

"Keep on succeeding, for only successful people can help others."
-Dr. Robert Schuller

2009-09-03T21:08:00.002-04:00

I am back home, in Florida. It was nice to see family and friends. It is also nice to be home.

This was the girls first plane trip. Alex was a pro! She sat on the window seat and just looked out the window the whole time, she was completely fascinated and brave. Savanna did well too, I do believe squeezing the circulation from my hand was a part of her flying experience. She was so funny. I thought she was going to hyperventilate during take off,haha. But she was a very good travel partner.

Got some business in while I visited. It went well and I am excited. I can not wait to watch the success of the team.

It is quite rainy today. We were going to go to the beach, but used this rainy day as an opportunity to unwind and catch up with school work. Was able to go out and send Sara a care package today. I am so proud of my starving college student.

Ok, now I am going to go back to not watching Young Frankenstein with Gene Wilder and get some homework finished. Yea, right!

2009-08-26T09:00:00.002-04:00

I am back up north for a visit. Been here for about 2 weeks, kinda feels like 2 months, haha. I am enjoying catching up with friends, but really look forward to getting back to the palm trees.

Dawna girl, felt like old times sitting in your house and sipping wine and talking and laughing. You have no idea how much I miss those visits. You are still a hoot! And if I can get my nine year old to show me how to do it, I am gonna post those pictures, haha. However...my silence can be bought.

My dear friend shared a quote with me, she said "go to where you are celebrated and not just tolerated". Kathy, I truly feel celebrated at your home. The fact that Larry did not go away on vacation when I came into town speaks volumes, haha. And for someone who does not like to cook, that dinner was the bomb! Yummy!!!

The girls are enjoying their visits with their friends. Savanna is going to go into Katie withdrawl when we leave. Thank God for unlimited long distance. You know how when you have a friend, and you just have this connection with each other, and you know you will probably be friends for the rest of your lives? Well, I believe Savanna and Katie are just such friends. A year apart has not weakened their friendship. They talk everyday. They laugh together and get into their spats, but always make up and move on.

You can learn alot listening to two little girls talking on the phone. They encourage each other and applaud each other. Even when they have their differences they remain committed to their friendship.

Alright, back to the books...

2009-07-19T16:25:00.004-04:00

I am reading a book by Joe Vitale, The Seven Lost Secrets of Success. He is writing about the million dollar ideas of Bruce Barton, and the book is loaded with some thought provoking quotes. I will share a couple with you...

"In each generation are a few men who catch a vision so big and steadfast that in the pursuit of it they lose all thought of their own interest or advantages."
Bruce Barton, 1918

"In the long run no individual prospers beyond the measure of his faith."
Bruce Barton, 1921

"In evry human being, whether emperor or cowboy, prince or pauper, philosopher or slave, there is a mysterious something which he neither understands nor controls. It may lie dormant for so long as to be almost forgotten; it may be so repressed that the man supposes it dead. But one night he is alone in the desert under the starry sky; one day he stands with bowed head and damp eyes beside an open grave; or there comes an hour when he clings with desperate instinct to the wet rail of a storm tossed boat, and suddenly out of the forgotten depths of his being this mysterious something leaps forth. It over-reaches habit; it pushes aside reason, and with a voice that will not be denied it cries out its questionings and its prayer."
Bruce Barton, 1927
What Can A Man Believe?

"Many of us are afraid this expenditure of compassion will drain away our energy, deplete us for our own tasks. But the dynamics of compassion defy the ordinary laws of energy. We discover that, like Antaeus in the ancient myth, our strength is doubled by compassionate contact with the blessed earth of humanity...

"Compassion belongs to the other great band of noble virtues- tolerance, sympathy, understanding - all marching under the banner of love."
Bruce Barton, 1942

You have just got to read the book for yourself, but I tell ya, it is filled with some diamonds.

Weight Loss Plan for People With Lactose Intolerence

2009-06-04T00:00:00.002-04:00

Eat all the ice cream you want! Top off all meals with a large glass of milk. Stay tuned for my rancid meat diet plan.

(This statement not approved by the FDA or any medical doctors or anyone else with common sense, follow this diet at your own discretion)

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-25T00:16:00.003-04:00

It is getting really late, but since I was on the ol' pc I thought I'd jot a line or two.

This is Memorial Day weekend. Missing my friends and the picnics! I think last year we were at Wes and Christine's house. Oh well, new beginnings can lead to great things.

The girls and I went to see Night at the Museum today. I actually wanted to go to a festival, but it was rainy, so we went shopping and to the movies. We had fun.

Our new friends came over yestarday. It was a nice visit. I really like them. They are a lovely family. Lisa is very hospitable (and funny) and their girls are such a joy. Savanna is thrilled how God answered her prayers for some friends.

Yestarday the girls and I were talking about Gods faithfulness and goodness. You know sometimes we just get so focused on our immediate problems we forget Who is really in control. We kinda act ungrateful, ya know. Like we are entitled to good things. So anyhoot, I was just so encouraged when Savanna shared with Alex and I how she had prayed for a friend and God brought two. And she was especially pleased that they are NORMAL! haha

Time to go. Have a great Memorial Day everyone.

American Idol

2009-05-20T22:30:00.002-04:00

Well, Kris won! It was a tough one. Both he and Adam were good. I bet we hear alot from both of them in the future. It was a good show tonight. Especially the part of in your face bikini girl. haha
24 is over for the season, American Idol is finished for the season, what are we to do now? Sigh!

Season Finale of 24

2009-05-19T14:06:00.002-04:00

Last night was the season finale of 24. Sigh! I do not watch much t.v., but I do look forward to Monday nights with Jack. I think the writing this season was pretty good and consistant. I do not think that lady should be president though, she has been weak. I wish they had written her as a stronger character. I was glad to see her daughter get caught and I was relieved that the president did the right thing in the end. Hopefully next season they will build her up more.

So, Jack is dying. Considering the trouble he has been in off screen, I wonder if Keifer is coming back. They can't kill him off, Jack makes 24. Come on Sutherland, get your act together will ya!

Well, at least they explained why Tony is such a traitor. But he still does not get sympathy from this viewer. Jerk!

Well, on that note, my break is over, back to the real world.

TTFN

BBQ, Will Smith & Why do dogs drink from the toilet?

2009-05-16T21:14:00.005-04:00

Had a great Saturday. Met a new friend recently, we went to their house for a bbq. Met some more new people. And guess what! They are normal people. Had a blast. They have little girls Savannas age.

Last Monday the girls and I took a little field trip to Cape Canaveral to watch the shuttle launch. It was exciting. What was amazing is, you saw the shuttle before you heard it, and then the sound came in waves. It was a little cloudy, so we could not watch it go all the way, but we saw it.

Drove nearly 3 hours to get there. Made it in time though. On the way home we drove through 3 thunderstorms. The kind that rains so big. There was alot of lightening, and anyone who knows me, knows I am afraid of lightening.

Oh yea, I saw unusual road kill that you do not see up north, a pelican and an alligator. Weird!

So there I am driving, gripping the wheel until my knuckles turned white out of fear of the lightening and I can't see. But we made it home in one piece.

Funny thing about south Florida, it rains in one place, but not another. And then when the rain stops the sun shines and you can't even tell it rained. I do love this weather.

Has anyone seen Seven Pounds with Will Smith? I saw it last night. What did you think? Of course Will Smith was in it, so you know it's gonna be good. I liked it. Cried at the end though.

Also recently saw Doubt with Meryl Streep. The cast was superb. The actors carried the movie with their acting. Good story line, but I personally thought the writing was weak.

Time to go fill the dogs water bowl before she empties the toilet. YUCK!

Happy Mothers Day

2009-05-10T01:02:00.003-04:00

Happy Mothers Day!

I am looking forward to a nice, quiet and peaceful mothers day. Savanna set her alarm clock so she can wake up before me, so I am anticipating breakfast in bed. She has been shut up in her room this evening, drawing pictures and making me a card. Of course I am not suppose to know this. She delights in making me gifts.

Alex is taking piano lessons now. She really has good rhythm. She is finding stuff that she is good at and enjoying it. This will be an excellent boost for her.

I do enjoy being a mom. I love my kids. Oh sure there are times I need some alone time. What mother doesn't? But I am truly blessed.

I found a writers group in Ft Lauderdale. They meet on Tuesdays. I am really hoping to go this Tuesday. I picked my book back up, editing it again. Who knows, I could be a published author one day.

Ok, no witty end for this post. Good night or good morning, however you wanna look at it. It is late.

Two Thumbs Up for Wolverine

2009-05-06T22:02:00.002-04:00

Saw X Men, Wolverine tonight. It was good. I think it is my favorite one. Ok, best line in the movie..."Colonel, this is quickly becoming a disaster."

2009-05-06T14:12:00.000-04:00

Forest got it wrong, but he gets a star for trying

2009-05-06T09:44:00.003-04:00

Ok, so Forest Gump said "life is like a box of chocolates"? I think life is like a cookie jar. A mixed cookie jar at that! Ok, so you are staring at the cookie jar, you got your cup of joe in one hand and at the very bottom of the cookie jar is that one cookie that you absolutely have to have at that moment to dip in your coffee. Sure the other cookies are good, but that that one at the very bottom would be perfect!

Or how about a cereal box? Remember when you were a kid and cereal came with prizes? Who could wait 'till you ate enough ceral to get to the bottom of that box and claim the prize of a cheap toy? Confess, when your mom wasn't looking you know you dug your grubby fingers into the box and got that toy. Funny, after the prize, the cereal was not as tasty anymore. Unless of course it was Boo Berry.

I am doing some studying now. No, I am writing this, but I am suppose to be studying now. Got some deadlines quickly approaching. Clock is ticking! So Bubba Gump, here is where I am.... do I do this or do I do that? Do I major in this or do I major in that? Both are appealing, but which will get me to where I want to be - faster?

Geezopetes! I wanna dump this cookie jar out and just get to that cookie already!

Forest Gump, life is not like a box of chocolates, chocolates are laid out side by side, you can see what ya get. I don't care what yo mama say's... life is a big box of sweet cereal and the only way to get to that prize is eat it!

That's my thought anyway. Back to the books...

How to Know Someone

2009-05-03T12:40:00.002-04:00

"You never really know a person until you have stared at them for eight hours through a pair of high powered binoculars." Sponge Bob

2009-04-19T17:24:00.001-04:00

2009-04-19T17:12:00.001-04:00

Proof We Should Not Judge A Book By It's Cover. OMG!

2009-04-15T15:16:00.002-04:00

I gotta tell you, I cried when I watched Susan Boyle sing. I just wanted to leap for her! She is so humble and I can't help but to think that God Himself stood right beside her on that stage and smiled over her while everyone who laughed at her was silenced. She quickly won the audience over with favor, now that is the glory to God.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnmbJzH93NU

Good Friday

2009-04-10T22:13:00.002-04:00

Today is Good Friday.

Pausing to reflect on why this day is Good. This is the day of reflection on what God did for us through His Son Jesus. Think about it, God came in the flesh, loved on us while we spit in His face, forgave us even as we were nailing his hands to the cross.

Think about. He created us because He loves us and wanted to have fellowship with us and His very creation doubted His existence, did not trust Him, so far removed from Him we did not even recognize Him. Yet, He still sacrificed Himself for us. Why?

When we think about His death, it is hard to comprehend the sacrifice that He made for us. I think it is because we can not comprehend Him; not really.

His death on the cross, as horrible as it was, the real celebration is in His Resurrection.

Think about it. He dies, went to Hell snatched the keys that Satan held in His hand, the key to control us, He snatched 'em right out of His hands! Death has been defeated and it is because of His death and His Resurrection that those of us who are in Him will never taste the sting of death. Sure we might die, in the flesh, but He said that when we die, when we are absent in the body we are present with Him. The moment we close our eyes here, we open our eyes in His presence and we will see the face of the One who truly loves us.

Guys, it is hard sometimes to live for Christ here in this world. I don't know about you, but I am constantly being bombarded with temptations, and feelings of anger and I often have to fight to not give up hope. Does this mean He loves me less? No! You see, this is why He had to come in the flesh of man and die for our sins, because if He had not, then there would be no hope for any of us to make it.

Try as we may, we can never be good enough to make it on our own. On the flip side, with His forgiveness, it does not matter what our past is, because when we go to Him for forgiveness, He forgives. He does not forgive like we do, He does not bring it back up when He gets mad. No! He forgives to never remember again. It is as though we have never sinned.

Now that is the death and the Resurrection. That is the hope that we have.

Have a great weekend. Take some time and reflect on what this weekend really means.

I love you guys!

Packing it up

2008-08-10T11:11:00.002-04:00

Feeling a little blue today. I am excited about the new venture I am taking, but I am really starting to feel sad about leaving my friends. Last couple days have been rough. Having a hard time concentrating. Dawna and Steve, you have been lifesavers for my sanity.

Lecrae- Take Me As I Am

2008-08-05T14:54:00.000-04:00

LeCrae- Praying For You

2008-08-04T14:38:00.000-04:00

SOLD!

2008-08-03T17:57:00.003-04:00

great news, we have a buyer for the house. Florida, here I come. Closing will be at the end of the month, however they want to close sooner. It is happening so fast. Funny, I thought this day would never get here.

I am getting ready to fly down and get an apartment ready. I am so excited.
Amidst the excitement, I am also feeling a little sorrow. I have some good friends here I will be saying good bye to. Well, not goodbye forever, but you know what I mean. I was very touched, two of my bar guest cried yesterday when I told them I was leaving. I hope I meet good people like I have met here. My life is about to change drastically. It is going to be an adventure. I am feeling up to the challenge.

Took the girls to get haircuts today. Savanna's hair is so long and curly, she will not let me brush it. When I brush her hair it sounds like I am abusing her. So needless to say, her hair was quite a mess. She had dreads. It took 3 women to brush her hair. She looks so cute now. Alex got her hair styled. She is really growing up, it is hard to believe how fast.

So after I bring the girls home from their haircuts, they had friends coming over, I went out for some all important, can't live without, toilet paper. My short trip became a couple hours. Sears had a sale going on and I got this cute outfit. I had so much fun trying clothes on, without kids whining. I am quite proud of myself, in addition the sale, I also asked for more off the price because it was missing a button. Really, I would have bought it anyway, but hey, I got to save some extra money. I am really trying to be responsible with my money. Or should I say "more responsible".

I am off this evening. We are cooking out on the grill. Then when it gets dark, we are having drive in movie nite. remember the drive in theatres when you were young? Well, we take a t.v. and some snacks and watch a movie outside. I know, it sounds weird, but the kids love it, and it is fun. Making memories.

That is it for now. by the way, I am looking for boxes...

Go Obama!

2008-07-30T10:47:00.001-04:00

Just a bit...

2008-07-18T13:15:00.003-04:00

Ok, so the couple from out of town are coming to see the house again. They will be here Sunday afternoon. I really should clean up, but I think I will wait until tomorrow to do that, so I won't have to do it twice. I have a good feeling about these people. Could they be the ones?

As excited as I am to be moving soon, I know I am going to miss my friends. I am blessed with some good friends here. On the bright side, hey, you guys have a place to go for vacation now. hahaha

Tim got my bike out and cleaned it up for me. I have not rode it in a long time. Savanna and I went for a bike ride yesterday. It was fun. And yes, it is true, you do not forget how to ride a bike.

No deep thoughts today. You can quote me on that. Trace, sorry I didn't answer the phone, I live in a house full of girls and to get a chance to use the phone is almost impossible. Send a homing pigeon next time. haha

Obama on Iraq Policy, July 15, 2008

2008-07-16T11:52:00.002-04:00

The East From The West

2008-07-14T11:48:00.001-04:00

I don't know about you, but I like to be reminded just how great and merciful God is and how much greater His mercy is than my sins.

Who Am I

2008-07-13T12:04:00.003-04:00

Hi Guys,
This video is self explanatory. My cousin sent this to me. It is black lights and gloves. This is an encouraging video, about truth. Enjoy.

The Full Monte

2008-07-12T12:58:00.003-04:00

Ok, just a quick note before I run out to get Alex her stuff for church camp.

Tim and I watched a hilarious movie last night. The Full Monte. It was hilarious! I have seen it before as I was channel surfing and never watched it, because honestly, I thought it would be a stupid movie, but I laughed so hard.

So, if you are in the need of a good laugh, or a way to earn some extra income, haha, watch The Full Monte.

No Title 4 This 1

2008-07-10T23:07:00.003-04:00

Ok, so I am sitting here watching Dante's Peak, with Charles Bronson and Linda Hamilton. I chuckle to myself, because I remember when I first saw this I thought it was a good movie. I guess it still is, in a cheesy kinda way. hahaha Oh no! Wait! Charles left his transmitter in the truck, now they are in an old mine, which conveniently is the little boys "fort". How are people going to find them without that transmitter? Oh, the suspense. I can't take it. Hurry Charles, get the transmitter, while Linda gets some rope to tie up Ruffy the dog and then they will get some water and clean their cuts. Oooops, rock slide, will they make it? I will stop here, because I do not want to ruin the movie for you.

I was given a gift of a poem today. A guest from work wrote it for me. It has been a long time since I had a poem just for me. It was very nice.

The weather here today was absolutely beautiful. I was off from work, so I took Savanna and her friend swimming. Alex went to her friends house. A kid swap kind of thing. Anyhoot, it was so relaxing to sit in the sun and read. DW, I am past the halfway mark in the book.

I am currently reading The Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini. It is very well written. It was also made into a movie if you want to cheat, but books are so much better. the main characters are two young boys, and the father and their life in Afghanistan before the war. It is well written, with detail and passion, I give it a two thumbs up and recommend it for a good summer read.

No buyers for the house yet. Another couple is coming tomorrow to see the house. Will someone please make an offer? Anyone?

For The Humble & Repressed

2008-07-06T14:40:00.001-04:00

Fireworks

2008-07-05T14:20:00.002-04:00

We had a fantastic time yestarday in Pittsburg. First, we went to the zoo, and that is always such an educational experience. The last time we were there the kids got to see how baby elephants are made, this time we got to witness an otter swim right past the window, displaying his manhood for everyone to see. That is all I got to say about that. Yikes!

There were alot of people at the zoo. The weather was actually quite nice. Only an occassional drizzle, not hot.

Then we went to the three rivers to a festival. There was a boat race, concerts, food and lots of people. The fireworks were spectacular! It was a laser show and firworks and the army band played. It was the best I have ever seen. They set them off from a boat in the river.

As I watched the fireworks, I wondered how many people actually know what the celebration was for. I mean, it is not about picnics and fireworks, but our freedom, the birth of our nation. Makes me happy to be an American.

Well, I do have to go to work today and Tim grilled some lunch so I can eat with the family before I go in. So the dinner bell is ringing, must go now.

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-04T08:24:00.002-04:00

Happy Independence Day. Hope you have some fun festivities today. Looks like rain here, but that is not going to stop us, no way.

As you are having your picnics, or whatever you have planned, or not, take a moment today and think about the freedom that we have here in the USA and be thankful. Even more importantly, meditate on the freedom that we have in Christ, because who He set free is free indeed.

Just Me

2008-07-01T11:37:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it is almost the 4th of July! Can you? Where does the time go? Is summer really here?

Hope everyone has some fun plans to celebrate the 4th. We are going to take the girls to the zoo and then find somewhere to watch fireworks. I can't wait. I love trips to the zoo. I remember one time taking the kids to the zoo and they got to witness how baby elephants are made. Let me tell ya, it was an educational trip. Yikes!

Speaking of the 4th, the celebration of our Independence, I have a question for you, are you registered to vote and do you vote? I am amazed how many people are not registered and do not vote. There are people dying for the freedom to vote. There were people who died for our freedom to vote.

The argument seems to be, what can one vote do? Does it really matter? Well heck yea it matters! One vote? Multiply that by a few million and it adds up. Does your vote count? Does it matter? Duh! We are not voting for a dictatorship you know, it does not stop after you pull the lever at the polls, we still have a responsibility to hold our elected officials accountable.

Obamas campaign is kicking off a registration drive on July 4th. So, if you are not registered, get registered and then see to it that your friends are registered. It does matter.

Ok, I am finished my tangent.

Looks like rain today. I am taking girls out for lunch today before I get ready for work.

House is still on market, but I really believe we will have an offer soon. Melissa Watson of Long and Foster is fantastic!

Lizs' Miracle Baby

2008-06-25T23:18:00.002-04:00

Hello My Faithful Readers (all one of you, hahaha)

I just finished watching a very good movie. The Kite Runner. O'mygosh, it was such a good movie. Mostly in sub titles, so literacy is needed to fully enjoy the movie. Two thumbs up, you gotta get out and rent it. I bought the book for Tim and he finished reading it, so I am reading it now, he went out and rented the movie so "I didn't have to read the book". Isn't he the funny one! I am going to read the book anyway, even though I know the ending.

I have a story I want to share with you. A praise report. I am going to paste the story below. Liz is my neighbor two doors down and loves God. This story is an amazing miracle.

Oh yea, before I forget, I know times are rough and it costs a kidney to fill the gas tank up, but I want to remind you, when you go out to eat, don't forget to tip your server, just in case that server might be me. hahaha

Love you!

And now....
My due date was 6-20. Last Monday around 7 or so I started getting contractions that were slightly regular any where from 3-15 minutes apart. I really was in no hurry to go to the hospital—plus, I had no sitter for Gabriella and Charlie, so I just kept doing my thing. I was doing laundry, dishes, and business related stuff. My husband’s cousin got the kids around 12am. I still had lots of work to do. I kept working until about 3am.

I had been hit with a cold earlier that day and really just wanted to got to sleep but figured—well I’ll go to the hospital and see if I can convince Dr. Wolford to break my water, I’ll have the baby then I can go to sleep—no big deal.

Right before 3am I started feeling kinda weak, tired and really shaky and anxious. I did not know why—I wasn’t nervous about having another baby---so what was wrong? Then I threw up a few times and tried to eat thinking maybe my blood sugar was low; I couldn’t even eat my favorite cereal.

Alan said, maybe you should go to sleep for awhile and we will go in the morning. I wanted to do some more work for the business since I knew I’d be gone for 2 days in the hospital.

I decided to just go. We got to the hospital at 3:20am. I went to labor and delivery and casually said, “I’m pretty sure I am in labor.”

The nurses hooked me up to the monitors and started freaking out because the baby’s heart rate was so low. Dr. Wolford happened to be there at the hospital—AT 3AM!!!! He was in my room within 3 minutes! He had me moving in many different positions to get the baby’s heart rate up- NOTHING WOULD WORK. I said to one of the nurses, “are you sure that’s not MY heart rate?”- NO; it was my baby’s.

Dr. Wolford said-“We’ve got to get this baby out, NOW” Now if any of you local people know Dr. Wolford- you know he is always very relaxed and soft spoken with a semi-hidden great sense of humor. Well, he was freaking out—in a professional manner though. He said, “Get the crew called in and the OR room ready STAT.”

He told me that I would be in a lot more pain than a normal c-section patient because they didn’t even have time to anesthetize me, they were just going to put my under general anesthesia. I realized this was serious. Right then, I was already on my knees—I started to pray. My husband saw what I was doing and grabbed my hand to join me. I was crying and he had tears in his eyes-not knowing what to think or do.

They rushed me down the hall- Alan had to stay behind; they didn’t have time to get him sterile. He luckily was able to watch though through a little window from far away.

Before Dr. Wolford came in he told Alan that he did not expect for little Alaina to be in good condition.

Alaina Elizabeth Blank was born at 3:47am. Her apgars were 7 & 8 and she cried right away. The ph level in her umbilical cord very pretty acidic from lack of oxygen.

The Problem was discovered; I was bleeding TO DEATH! PLACENTA ABRUPTIO; The placenta had ripped away from my uterus and Alaina wasn’t getting enough oxygen to keep her alive! Dr. Wolford told Alan right afterwards that IF WE HAD GOTTEN TO THE HOSPITAL 15 MINUTES LATER OUR BABY WOULD HAVE BEEN DEAD AND I WOULD’VE BEEN CLOSE TO DEATH AS WELL! I WOULD’VE BEEN DEAD FOR SURE IF I HAD GONE BACK TO SLEEP LIKE MY BODY WA TELLING ME TO. I WOULD’VE NEVER WOKEN UP! In fact, I was already in maternal shock from blood loss- that is why I threw up and felt all shaky and nervous.

Now in 80% of Placental Abruptions come with bleeding and 80% come with severe ripping pain. I HAD NOTHING! NO SPOTTING, NO PAIN OTHER THAN SEVERAL CONTRACTIONS. I had asked Dr. Wolford if he’d induce me Monday morning but he said we’d talk about it at my next visit. I was kinda looking forward to jokingly saying, “well, Dr. Wolford, I asked you to induce me on Monday morn, if you would’ve agreed I wouldn’t have gotten you out of bed in the middle of the night. J” I also told him that I may see him over the weekend because I would be doing all kinds of things that I wasn’t supposed to be doing in hopes that I would go into labor, well, I actually had did nothing to stress myself out over the weekend, I just chilled.

Dr. Wolford visited me 2 times each day I was in the hospital and during most visits just kept saying, “15 minutes later”, “you didn’t have much time kiddo”, “15-20 minutes later and I would’ve had to give your husband a disastrous talk that I really would’ve hated to have”, and just how amazing he thought this “luck” was. On Friday before I left the hospital, I asked him; “Dr. Wolford, do you believe in miracles?” It caught him off guard. He said, “Well, uh, I think that nature has a way of doing things and that good things happen to good people.” I told him, there are too many “coincidences” here, this is a God thing!---nothing short of a miracle from Him. I really didn’t have any sense of urgency to come in; I just did because I wanted to get the baby out and then go to sleep.

Now, CAN ANYONE TELL ME THAT ALL THESE THINGS ARE JUST ONE BIG SET OF COINCIDENCES????

- WENT TO THE HOSPITAL AT 3AM EVEN THOUGH I REALLY DIDN’T THINK I NEED TO AND REALLY JUST WANTED TO SLEEP

- DR. WOLFORD WAS THERE AT HE HOSPITAL AT 3AM

- 15-20 MINUTES LATER AND MY PRECIOUS BABY WOULD’VE BEEN BORN DEAD! (WHAT IS 15 MINUTES??- ANOTHER LOAD OF LAUNDRY, A FEW MORE DISHES? THE END OF A TV SHOW? A QUICK BATH? REALLY; IT TAKES 15 MINUTES TO GET TO THE HOSPITAL- 15 MINUTES IS NOTHING!!)

- 80% of Placental Abruptions come with bleeding – I HAD NONE!

- 80% come with severe ripping pain- I HAD NONE!

- I WAS IN MATERNAL SHOCK FROM BLOOD LOSS (BUT DIDN’T KNOW IT) AND LETHARGIC BUT STILL JUST WENT IN BECAUSE…

- I HAD NO REASON TO THINK I NEEDED TO OR REALLY SHOULD GO TO THE HOSPITAL….

- OUT OF MY BELLY CAME A BEAUTIFUL LITTLE GIRL WHO CRIED RIGHT AWAY WITH GOOD APGARS THAT DR. WOLFORD AND HER PEDIATRICIAN DR. NUBER ARE AMAZED WITH! SHE IS ABSOLUTELY PERFECTLY HEALTHY!! I COULDN’T ASK FOR A BETTER BABY!!- (SHE EVEN SLEEPS WONDERFULLY!!!)

- MY BEST FRIEND JESSICA HAD A DREAM THE WEEK BEFORE (SHE DIDN’T TELL ME THIS BEFORE ALAINA WAS BORN)—SHE HAD A DREAM THAT I HAD GIVEN BIRTH TO A STILL BORN DAUGHTER

- MY DAUGHTER MCKAYLA WAS FREAKING OUT ON MONDAY NIGHT CRYING AND TELLING MY MOTHER, “MY MOMMY IS GOING TO DIE AND THE BABY TOO!!” IT TOOK HOURS TO CALM HER DOWN. I WAS RECEIVING PRAYER SPECIFICALLY AGAINST THE FEAR OF A STILL BORN BABY AND PERSONAL HEALTH PROBLEMS.

- THE WEEK BEFORE I HAD A DREAM THAT I GAVE BIRTH TO A DEAD DAUGHTER. THIS WAS A VERY DETAILED DREAM. I REFUSED TO LEAVE HER AT THE HOSPITAL, I BROUGHT HER HOME AND LAYED ON HER NURSERY ROOM FLOOR WITH HER- I SAID, SHE IS COMING HOME.

I ALSO DREAMT IN THE SAME NIGHT THAT I HAD DIED AND SAW MY OTHER CHILDREN GROWING UP WITHOUT ME—WISHING I WAS STILL THERE AND THAT I HAD AT LEAST WRITTEN TO THEM ALL TO TELL THEM HOW MUCH I LOVED THEM AND HOW SPECIAL THEY ALL ARE TO ME AND MY DREAMS FOR THEM. WISHING I COULD HOLD THEM AND TELL THEM I LOVED THEM AGAIN.----------I REBUKED THESE EVIL DREAMS AND VISIONS AND PRAYED AGAINST THEM KNWOING THEY WERE NOT FROM GOD BUT FROM SATAN. I REBUKED THEM AND ASKED FOR PROTECTION.

- NOW I UNFORTUNATLY HAVE HAD DREAMS & VISIONS IN THE PAST OF BAD THINGS HAPPENING AND THEN THEY HAVE HAPPENED, SOMETIMES EXACTLY HOW I HAD SEEN. I ALSO HAVE HAD PANIC ATTACKS WHEN I “KNEW” SOMETHING WAS WRONG AND THERE ENDED UP BEING SOMETHING TERRIBLE THAT HAPPENED. BUT---THERE WAS NO REASON IN THE WORLD WHY I SHOULD’VE BEEN WORRYING ABOUT STILLBIRTH OR MYSELF DYING—I HAVE ALWAYS HAD NORMAL HEALTHY PREGANCIES, YES I WAS MISERABLE BEING PREGNANT WITH HER, BUT MY PREGNANCY WAS NORMAL AND HEALTHY.

ARE THESE JUST A COINCIDENCE? YEAH RIGHT! NOT IN A MILLION YEARS! GOD HAS THE WHOLE WORLD IN HIS HANDS. HE PUT IT IN MY MIND TO GO TO THE HOPSITAL WHEN I DIDN’T THINK I NEEDED TO, WHEN I REALLY JUST WANTED TO SLEEP—AND JUST AT THE RIGHT TIME---REMEMBER ; I HAD A 15 MINUTE WINDOW BETWEEN THE LIFE AND THE DEATH OF MY BABY GIRL. AND A NOT MUCH WIDER WINDOW FOR MY OWN LIFE…AND I NEVER THOUGHT ANYTHING WAS WRONG!!!

HOW LONG DOES IT TYPICALLY TAKE TO GET A DOCTOR TO YOUR BEDSIDE? 3 MINUTES? OR 3 HOURS?????—HE WAS THERE WITHIN 3 MINUTES AT MY BEDSIDE!!

THE TRUTH OF THE MATTER IS; THIS WAS NOTHING LESS THAN A MIRACLE FROM GOD! THERE IS NO JUSTIFYING IT ANY OTHER WAY!

SATAN HAD A PLAN TO DESTROY MY ENITRE FAMILY! THAT IS WHAT HE DOES BEST! HE TRIES TO DESTROY PEOPLE AND PLANS, HOPES AND DESIRES, AND IS PRETTY GOOD AT IT! WELL, I REBUKED HIS PLAN IN THE NAME OF JESUS- WHO OVERCAME THE GRAVE AND GOD WOULD NOT ALLOW SATAN’S PLAN TO PREVAIL! SIMILAR TO THE STORY OF JOB, BUT GOD WOULD NOT ALLOW ME TO BE HARMED NOR MY BABY AND FAMILY!! PRAISE THE LORD GOD!

I WILL TESTIFY TO THIS MIRACLE AND PREACH TO THE POWER OF THE LORD OF US ALL UNTIL THE DAY I DO DIE OR TAKEN TO HEAVEN WITH JESUS!!

THANK YOU JESUS, NOW THIS IS MERCY AND GRACE!!!!...AND ONCE AGAIN, UNDESERVED MERCY AND GRACE! HALLELUIYAH!

NEVER TAKE LIFE FOR GRANTED, TELL YOUR FAMILY AND BABIES YOU LOVE THEM AT LEAST ONCE A DAY- TOMORROW IS PROMISED TO NO ONE!!

Curves

2008-06-23T13:24:00.003-04:00

In my quest to get back in shape, I have joined Curves today. I want to lose 40+ pounds by my next birthday. So, 3 days at Curves and 3 working out at home and 1 day off. I am siked! Anyone care to join me?

The weather today looks beautiful. Of course, I have to go to work this afternoon.

Last evening, Tim and I had a spontaneous date. Left girls at my moms and went out for some appetizers. It is good to break away from routine. It helps break monotony and it refreshes you.

Ok, my 10 seconds of alone time is over, gotta go help Savanna get her paint set up.

Hallelujah

2008-06-23T00:01:00.005-04:00

I found this video on youtube, I like U2, and for those of you who also like U2 know that many of their lyrics are biblical and have real spiritual undertones and sometimes just outright. Of course, I know some religious people get offended at some music. Music, like politics, has a knack for offending people. tsk, tsk

Anyhoot, Tim, I thought you would like this one.

Sometimes we get so wrapped up in our view of how things should be, how God should move and how people should express their love for God. Often times, the church forgets that they are only saved because Jesus saved them. There is alot of lip service, but sometimes no action.

Bono references in this song (written by Leonard Cohen) about the broken hallelujah, and to me, that means, a broken hallelujah from someone who is hurting, who desperately cries out to God from his inner part and God hears. The Spirit groans within us, and we do not understand, but He does. And then there is that hallelujah that comes from the unsaved, from His creation, because even though their intellect wants to deny Christ, He has given each of us an inner knowing, a conscience, and we can not deny we were all created.

Listen to this and interpret for yourself. I am curious to hear some feedback.

or for the faint at heart. hahahaha Funny, this one goes with a wedding. Do you recognize it now?

2008-06-22T11:19:00.001-04:00

My 40 Seconds Rant

2008-06-21T12:12:00.003-04:00

Ok, I am still on my bandwagon and I hope to knock some people off their soap box.
Racism is alive and well in America folks. Ignorance is not bliss, it is dangerous. I am sure many of you have received, and maybe participated in forward smear emails on Obama.

Profiling is a dangerous thing. It is false logic. Profiling is what Hitler did. It is like saying...

* all blondes are stupid
* all Christians are fat hypocrites
* all Germans hate Jews
* all Christian Bosnians are Muslim baby killers
* all Americans are fat rich white people
* all blacks are gangbangers

the list goes on and on and on....

If you are on your highhorse of religion, look how God sees things. God judges individually, He would leave 99 to save 1. He does not lump us all together.

Fear and lies are tactics of the enemy.

It is one thing to base your choice upon facts, but it is foolishness and dangerous to base your choice on fear and predjudice. fear and mistrust can only divide. Our Lord did not give us a spirit of fear.

I am saddened and angry when my Christian brothers and sisters join in smear campaigns and help spread lies, knowing or unknowing. There is a great responsibilty that comes with our freedom. Many people died for our freedom. One died for our salvation.

This is not my soapbox to tell you who to vote for, that is a choice for you to decide, I just hope you educate yourself and rise above the hypocracy that is flowing so freely.

Ok, that is my 40 seconds of ranting. I am going to go take my little girl swimming before I go to work.

Hope you still love me.

The Anti- Christ?

2008-06-21T00:52:00.002-04:00

Good gravy! Guys come on, is it really necessary to forward me emails that imply Obama is the anti-christ? For Pete's sake, I do not think most of you even know what you are talking about. At least be informed and then make a decision. I have copied a clip from Obamas website and I am going to paste it here so you can read it. I encourage you to go his web site and see where he stands on issues. Since when does a certain party represent only Gods people? If God wants to use a donkey, He can.

My rebuttal to some (Christian)people is this, I am sure you love the Lord and I know He loves you, but if you want change to happen in our country, might I suggest you get off the pew and make it happen. Forwarding e mails and spewing second and third hand information does no one any good and it certainly is not a good representation of Christ.

Since this information is public information, I am sure I am not infringing on any copywrite laws.

Key values in Barack Obama’s public statements on faith and politics
•
God is constantly present in our lives, and this presence is a source of hope.
“Hope in the face of difficulty, hope in the face of uncertainty, the audacity of hope: In the end, that is God's greatest gift to us, the bedrock of this nation, a belief in things not seen, a belief that there are better days ahead.” – Democratic National Convention Keynote Address.
•
Progressives should boldly approach matters of faith and values.
“[I]f we truly hope to speak to people where they're at - to communicate our hopes and values in a way that's relevant to their own - then as progressives, we cannot abandon the field of religious discourse…Because when we ignore the debate about what it means to be a good Christian or Muslim or Jew; when we discuss religion only in the negative sense of where or how it should not be practiced, rather than in the positive sense of what it tells us about our obligations towards one another…others will fill the vacuum, those with the most insular views of faith, or those who cynically use religion to justify partisan ends.” – Call to Renewal Keynote Address
“Our failure as progressives to tap into the moral underpinnings of the nation is not just rhetorical, though. Our fear of getting “preachy” may also lead us to discount the role that values and culture play in addressing some of our most urgent social problems.” - The Audacity of Hope.
•
As Joshua built on the work of Moses, leaders of today – the ‘Joshua Generation’ – must build of the foundation of previous generations to move our nation forward.
“The final thing that I think the Moses generation teaches us is to remind ourselves that we do what we do because God is with us. You know, when Moses was first called to lead people out of the Promised Land…the Lord said I will be with you. Throw down that rod. Pick it back up. I'll show you what to do. The same thing happened with the Joshua generation.
Joshua said, you know, I'm scared. I'm not sure that I am up to the challenge. The Lord said to him, every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon, I have given you. Be strong and have courage, for I am with you wherever you go. Be strong and have courage. It's a prayer for a journey. A prayer that kept a woman in her seat when the bus driver told her to get up, a prayer that led nine children through the doors of that Little Rock school, a prayer that carried our brothers and sisters over a bridge right here in Selma, Alabama. Be strong and have courage.” -Address to Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church, Selma, Alabama, on the Anniversary of Bloody Sunday.
•
Faith should not be used as a wedge to divide.
“We think of faith as a source of comfort and understanding but find our expressions of faith sowing division; we believe ourselves to be a tolerant people even as racial, religious, and cultural tensions roil the landscape. And instead of resolving these tensions or mediating these conflicts, our politics fans them, exploits them, and drives us further apart.” – The Audacity of Hope.
“Well, I say to them tonight, there's not a liberal America and a conservative America – there's the United States of America. There's not a black America and white America and Latino America and Asian America – there's the United States of America. The pundits like to slice-and-dice our country into Red
Paid for by Obama for America
Paid for by Obama for America
States and Blue States; Red States for Republicans, Blue States for Democrats. But I've got news for them, too. We worship an awesome God in the Blue States, and we don't like federal agents poking around our libraries in the Red States. We coach Little League in the Blue States and have gay friends in the Red States. There are patriots who opposed the war in Iraq and patriots who supported it. We are one people, all of us pledging allegiance to the stars and stripes, all of us defending the United States of America.” – Democratic National Convention Keynote Address.
•
The separation of church and state is critical and has caused our democracy and religious practices to thrive.
“[Conservative leaders] need to understand the critical role that the separation of church and state has played in preserving not only our democracy, but the robustness of our religious practice. Folks tend to forget that during our founding, it wasn't the atheists or the civil libertarians who were the most effective champions of the First Amendment. It was the persecuted minorities, it was Baptists like John Leland…It was the forbearers of the evangelicals who were the most adamant about not mingling government with religion, because they did not want state-sponsored religion hindering their ability to practice their faith…” – Call to Renewal Keynote Address
•
We are a nation of many faiths and of those with no faith at all. The religious practices of all must be respected.
“Given the increasing diversity of America's population, the dangers of sectarianism have never been greater. Whatever we once were, we are no longer just a Christian nation; we are also a Jewish nation, a Muslim nation, a Buddhist nation, a Hindu nation, and a nation of nonbelievers.” - Call to Renewal Keynote Address
•
Faith is a source of action for justice.
“Imagine Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address without reference to "the judgments of the Lord." Or King's I Have a Dream speech without references to "all of God's children." Their summoning of a higher truth helped inspire what had seemed impossible, and move the nation to embrace a common destiny.” – Call to Renewal Keynote Address
“We should never forget that God granted us the power to reason so that we would do His work here on Earth - so that we would use science to cure disease, and heal the sick, and save lives.” – World AIDS Day Speech: Race Against Time
“Pastors, friends of mine like Rick Warren and T.D. Jakes, are wielding their enormous influences to confront AIDS, Third World debt relief, and the genocide in Darfur. Religious thinkers and activists like our good friend Jim Wallis and Tony Campolo are lifting up the Biblical injunction to help the poor as a means of mobilizing Christians against budget cuts to social programs and growing inequality…Across the country, individual churches like my own and your own are sponsoring day care programs, building senior centers, helping ex-offenders reclaim their lives, and rebuilding our gulf coast in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.” – Call to Renewal Keynote Address
•
Government alone cannot solve all of our problems – we have an individual responsibility to be our brother’s keeper and our sister’s keeper.
“And although government will play a crucial role in bringing about the changes we need, more money and programs alone will not get us where we need to go. Each of us, in our own lives, will have to accept responsibility - for instilling an ethic of achievement in our children, for adapting to a more competitive economy, for strengthening our communities, and sharing some measure of sacrifice. So let us begin. Let us begin this hard work together. Let us transform this nation.” - Presidential Announcement Speech

A Can of Worms? Hardly.

2008-06-19T21:15:00.004-04:00

Well, first I will start off on a funny encouraging note, encouraging to me anyway...
So, as you know I have been working hard on losing weight and getting in shape. I am seeing results and feeling great and motivated to do even more.

So anyway, Sara's (guy) friend came to the house today. As they were leaving, Sara says, "Mom, Jessie said you are "hot"" hahaha So I sang to Tim, "Sara's mom's got it going on!" I think her friend wanted to run, perhaps he did not think Sara would blurt it out right in front of him. I think he will be my favorite friend for her. He can visit anytime. hahaha

We are getting ready for our Unite for Change meeting next Saturday. A few Christian friends have asked me why I support him. Some were surprised, after all, he is a democrat, pro choice, gasp! There is another blog that sums up quite well what my answer to the questions of those who want to know why I am supporting Obama, actually two, the first is A Christian Democrat and the next is Obamas website www.Barackobama.com Check those sites out and then if you have any questions or want to know more come to our Unite for Change meeting Sat. June 28th 8 p.m.

Find a Cause & Get Involved

2008-06-17T12:42:00.002-04:00

I signed up as a volunteer for Obamas campaign. I am a registered republican and I am supporting a democrat, now that is a statement. No, I am not supporting a party, I am voting for the man.

I know people who will go and vote all republican because they are republican, or all democrat because they are democrat. That is silly. As a responsible citizen we must be informed where our candidates stand on issues and vote accordingly.

So, I am hosting an event, if you would like an invite, e mail me and I will get one out to you.

Yes, We Can

2008-06-16T12:38:00.002-04:00

Yesssssssss!

2008-06-16T11:43:00.002-04:00

Our fantastic realtor, Melissa Watson of Long and Foster (not a paid advertising, haha)e mailed with some good news. The couple from outa town, that saw the house twice, have requested the disclosures and are coming back Thursday with their parents for a third, and hopefully final, look. Come on baby, make an offer!

Ok, I am not putting all my eggs in one basket, but this looks good. Woohoo!

Did everyone have a good fathers day? We did. We packed a picnic and went to Rocky Gap, the camp side, it is so much nicer, and had a good day in the sun. Took girls for a canoe ride. You know, I think I might add that into my workout, canoe twice a week. It was fun.

I have been practicing my bartending flair at home in the back yard. Wonder what the neighbors think? No broken glass in the yard yet, however, there is alot of grass in the cork. The fact that I am not a coordinated person does make it a little difficult.

Time to go do some turbo. Have a great day!

Vote for Pedro.

TTFN

A Little Flair

2008-06-13T01:02:00.002-04:00

Bryan...practice this, ok! haha You missed when I was spinning a bottle at work and the lid was open and it went full circle. Or should I say "Rich missed it" oops.

Just For You Tracy

2008-06-12T23:34:00.002-04:00

Ok Trace, this one is for you!

Eeeeehhhh, oooohhhhhh, eeeeeehhhhh, emergency one, emergency one....
Errr uhhhh, clean up in aisle 1....
pass me that pencil would ya, uh, and a match...
why do you always get to sleep by the fan!?
I am coming up there and you better be asleep!
We are running away, signed fatty and tapeworm...
How do you like my towel, I mean, uh, my hair, how do you like my hair?
And no, she does not work at McDonalds, she just likes her new green outfit!
Uh oh, here comes Lisa's parents, quick, out the window! Wait, open the window first.
Close your eyes and pretend you are asleep, do not move, he will eventually go away. (One hour later) Close your eyes, don't move, he will eventually go away.
I can't believe we worked all summer for this stupid movie!
And the number one....drum roll please, lights off, the sound of feet running, and suddenly, crash... "who moved the bed?"

Love ya Cuzz!

Breaking a Sweat

2008-06-03T13:05:00.002-04:00

Did you ever have one of those days where you just feel great! Well, this is my day. No, I am not medicated. Could have something to do with working out not once, but twice today to some new music I got. Feels good to break a sweat! I think I am close to the weight that I can start running again.

I work tonight. Last night the bar started out real slow. I mean, real ssssslllllooooowwwwww. But toward the end of the evening it picked up considerably, so I did walk out with some green. It was a good crowd. One of my barguest, also a friend, told me I am not just a bartender, I am an entertainer. I sometimes feel like a circus monkey. haha I don't mind, I love to laugh and meet new people, and really, how many grumpy people do you know after a drink?

I once wanted to be a stand up comic, didn't make the cut. I found the secret. Give them a drink and then tell them a joke. Works like a charm I tell ya.

I am off tomorrow, so I have reservations to go check out another restaurant. They offered me a bartending job, so I thought I should go see what kind of business they have. RT's is plucking my nerves and I feel like I work for the gestapo sometimes.

The house has been showing. A couple professors are coming in this evening from out of town. Maybe I should open some books and spread the Wall Street Journal out on the coffee table. Perhaps they will say, "hmmm, this is the house of smart people, we must buy it!"

It is almost time for work, hope it is busy, or there is one really really generous tipper.

Peace!

Unsealing The Scroll

2008-06-02T09:33:00.006-04:00

I watched while the Lamb ripped off the first of the seven seals. I heard one of the Animals roar, "Come out!" I looked- I saw a white horse. Its rider carried a bow and was given a victory garland. He rode off victorious, conquering right and left.

When the Lamb ripped off the second seal, I heard the second Animal cry, "Come out!" Another horse appeared, this one red. Its rider was off to take peace from the earth, setting people at each others throats, killing one another. He was given a huge sword.

When He ripped off the third seal, I heard the third Animal cry, "Come out!" I looked. A black horse. Its rider carried a set of scales in his hand. I heard a message (it seemed to issue from the four Animals): "A quart of wheat for a day's wages, or three quarts of barley, but all the oil and wine you want."

When He ripped off the fourth seal, I heard the fourth Animal cry, "Come out!" I looked. A colorless horse, sickly pale. Its rider was Death, and Hell was close on its heels. They were given power to destroy a fourth of the earth by war, famine, disease, and wild beast.

When He ripped off the fifth seal, I saw the souls of those killed because they held firm in their witness to the Word of God. They were gathered under the Altar, and cried out in loud prayers, "How long, Strong God, Holy and True? How long before You step in and avenge our murders?" Then each martyr was given a white robe and told to sit back and wait until the full number of martyrs was filled among their servant companions and friends in the faith.

I watched while He ripped off the sixth seal: a bone jarring earth quake, sun turned black as ink, moon all bloody, stars falling out of the sky like figs shaken from a tree in a high wind, sky snapped shut like a book, islands and mountains sliding this way and that. And then pandemonium, everyone and his dog running for cover-kings, princes, generals, rich and strong, along with every commoner, slave or free. They hid in the mountain caves and rocky dens, calling out to mountain and rocks, "Refuge! Hide us from the One Seated on the Throne and the wrath of the Lamb! The great day of their wrath has come- who can stand it?"
Revelation 6 The Message

No, that was not a clip from the newspaper that you just read, it was from the Bible. But, wow, it could have been from the newspaper. Do you see that this is happening now? Let's not forget, this is not our home. We will all live forever, it is only a question of where.

Guys, get serious. Do an inventory, speaking to myself too, hold on, He is coming.

Love you!

Salsa Anyone?

2008-05-31T14:19:00.002-04:00

So I am sitting here watching Sara's DVD, Core Rhythms. I would be up dancing some Salsa, Merengue & Rumba, but I do not have the proper footwear on, I left my stilettos upstairs. Darn it!

The graduation went well last night. Jessica looked beautiful. Since the girls stayed at a friends all night we went out afterwards and had a fun time. Met some new people and laughed alot.

Of course being out late did make it kinda hard to get up early for the house showing. I can't wait to hear from Melissa.

I woke up this morning with a squirrel by my window. There is a tree outside my window that is a home to many birds and squirrels. I enjoy sitting outside and watching animals. It is fun to watch them play and chase each other around. I assume they are playing.

Gotta go, the music is calling me... salsa anyone?

short note...

2008-05-30T16:27:00.002-04:00

Got my car back today, yahoo! Was no small matter, but could have been worse.

My step daughter, Jessica, graduates high school today. Time flies.

Sara finally got a car, just got to get to New York to pick it up.

Short on thoughts and time today. It is beautiful out and I do not want to be in.

Someone is seeing house in the morning, pray for us!

The Saga Continues

2008-05-29T12:13:00.002-04:00

The saga continues with my Kia. Anyone want to buy a car, do not go to Shaffer Ford! The car is in the garage AGAIN! I think Tim and I are going to seek legal action.

Well, I have a new look. Changed my hair from red to dark brown. It looks ok, different, but ok. I am going to go see Jeremy in Hagerstown soon. I want him to color it for me. I changed it to brown to start getting rid of some of the red. It is great being a woman.

One of my bar guest brought me in some peanut butter pies the other evening. It was soooo good. I love peanut butter. Kudos to you Craig! Of course I shared them. Took one to the kitchen and then cut the other one up at the bar for the guest. For a small fee I will give you the recipe. haha

Got a second job offer this week. Kind of hate sitting in limbo with the house on the market, afraid to make commitments because I do not know how much longer I will be here. Our new realtor called and she will be showing the house this Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Please let this be the one! I am looking forward to the sun on my back and the sand between my toes.

Happy Memorial Day

2008-05-26T23:43:00.002-04:00

Did you have a good weekend? I did. We had our picnic yesterday because I had to work today. I will post some pictures tomorrow (perhaps). A couple friends of ours came over and we had so much fun. The weather was beautiful!

This morning we had a baby blue jay in our yard. It had a hard time flying. Tim kept picking it up with a swimming pool net and lifting it up to a tree branch so our dog would not eat it. Poor thing. Do you know what amazed me? The mother bird (I assume) and about 4 other blue jays kept flying around it and calling to it. It was if they were encouraging it. Gods creation is awesome beautiful.

Well, Tim and girls called me at work. The baby bird died. So the girls buried it under our lilac tree with the other pets. It is looking like a little pet cemetery, all these shallow graves and mounds of dirt with flowers. Maybe we should get some headstones?

Work was very slow tonight. Of course, everyone was picnicking. It is raining right now. I had a few bar guest, so I did have company.

We list our house with Long and Foster tomorrow. I think this is it. I so want to be in Florida by the end of July. So Amy, look for me, I am coming!

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-24T13:17:00.003-04:00

Ladies, you have got to get down to Value City for some new cool summer outfits. This morning I made a quick trip downtown to pay a bill, haha, a "quick trip" yelled, "I'll be right back" and then spent a couple hours in Value City trying on outfits. Figured since since I was in the neighborhood, you know... Anyhoot, there are some good sales going on.

So Memorial Day weekend is here. Can you believe it? Time flies, huh. Of course I work, so we are having a little get together tomorrow with a couple friends.

What's new? Hmmm...nothing really. House is still on market. We are listing with Long and Foster Tuesday. A realtor named Melissa Watson will be our agent. She seems to have it going on. I like her marketing style. I believe she may be the one.

I think I am going to try to post some pix this weekend. I wonder if I can super impose my face on the body of a model. Of course that's me! haha

Have a great weekend. Soak in some sun, have some good food and enjoy friends and family.

Hey There

2008-05-22T19:44:00.002-04:00

I am back! Tim took girls to see Narnia and I am home alone. Yep, guess what I am suppose to be doing, you got it, writing. Help! Writers block, yuck.

I had a nice "me" day. I got a pedicure, thanks Mom. It felt soooo good. You know how dogs shake their legs when they are being pet just the right way? Well, I know why they do that, haha. She massaged my feet, I think my eyes were rolling into the back of my head it was so relaxing. I now have shiny red toes, sexy. Then I went and got the eyebrows done. You know what I wonder? Who was the first person to use body wax and what were they thinking? Ouch!

What is up with this wind and chill? Memorial day is right around the corner and I am cold.

Hey Trace, thanks for putting me in your faves.

Ok, enough dancing around, time to get serious. I am off to write the next best seller.

Grumpy Church People

2008-05-19T17:47:00.003-04:00

Ok, so I am suppose to be writing. Dinner is in the oven and I have declared tonight is mine to write. So what am I doing here? Procrastinating.

It is mighty windy out today. Took kids to fly kites, but it was too windy and cold. It is Monday and I am off today because I worked for someone else yesterday. It does feel nice being home in the evenings with the family. Sometimes I feel like I am never home.

Can I share a peeve I have, if ya wanna call it that.Yesterday I worked, it was Sunday and I do not normally work on Sundays, but switched with someone because she really needed the day off.

So I was there at lunch, you know the time on Sundays when church folk come in after church and say "you should have been in church today", duh... if I were there, who would be here? Anyhow, I have two things to say...

First, to the church people, people who carry the label of Christian...when you come into a restaurant, wearing your Sunday best and it is obvious you just came from church and you are gathered around the table blessing the food, please, I repeat, please, do not curse the ones who are serving you with the very mouth you just used to thank God for your food. I am appalled at what I witnessed at work. Do you not know that you are a representation of Christ? If you can not handle that responsibility, change your clothes before you come to dinner and do not pray, because you leave a bad witness.

One such table nearly had a server in tears because the food did not look like the menu picture. Are you aware that servers are paid $3.08 and hour? We live off of your tips, so if you must be cheap and not leave a tip, do not leave a gospel track either. We can not see the joy of the Lord on you when you are fighting with each other, gossiping and being just down right miserable and taking as many people with you as you can.

Second, to the people who do not profess to be Christians, I am sorry. Please do not believe that Christians are suppose to act that way. Know that someone who truly loves Jesus will love you too. Though we all have bad days and being a Christian does not make us immune from bad days, if we are mature, we will not treat others like dung. What you witness when you see this misbehavior, is not the love of Christ, but religion.

Guys, it is time to grow up. Let go of the elementary and get real. If you can't be civil, then stay home.

Ok, that was my rant. Gotta run and check dinner and get serious with writing. Wanna post at least two articles tonight. By the way, anyone have any article ideas?

Stop It!

2008-05-16T13:59:00.002-04:00

Hey Guys,
I found this on another blog. For those of us who dwell on things, here is the answer to all of our problems and phobias. What a hoot that it could all be so simple.
Love you!

Kerri Pomarolli

2008-05-13T11:37:00.005-04:00

O'my gosh,
I remember skating in the basement to Aretha and Tina & Rappers Delight, before Michael looked like Diana. hahaha, remember that Trace? roller boogie, eeeeeeyaaaaah! Oh, and lets not forget the Osmonds, Leif Garret, Shawn Cassidy and Linda Blair. Hello! That was before the big hair. Trips down memory lane.. skididydink.

A Boy, A Dream, God & A Tornado

2008-05-13T09:53:00.002-04:00

I found this story on Breaking Christian News and thought it worth sharing. Isn't that just God to wrap himself around this little boy and he was able to sleep through the storm.

9-year-old Boy has Dream and is Saved in Georgia Tornado
Steve Shultz (May 12, 2008)
All the Lord had to do was give him a dream that gave him a desire to hold on tight to avoid the rain. And, in so doing, he held onto the boards of the house and was saved, without a scratch.

While I was unable to find a link on their website, I listened to this story several times on FOX News and took notes. During the 135 mile per hour tornado that swept through Ellenwood, Georgia, last night, the deadly storm tried to claim the life of 9-year-old Andre Jordan. He was sound asleep as his mother rounded the corner to his room. At that moment, the tornado hit the house, with Andre still fast asleep. (Photo: KWTV/CNN)

The outside walls and exterior to his house suddenly blew off and began to suck sleeping Andre Jordan off his bed and out of the house, to a likely death. Still asleep, Andre was instantly given an dream in which he heard his mother tell him to put something in the "trunk." As he obeyed his mother in the dream, he felt rain on himself, so he decided to hold onto the trunk really hard to protect himself from the rain.

Shortly he was awakened, still holding on to the two-by-four wall studs of his house, thinking it was the trunk that was protecting him from rain. His dream created his rescue procedure!

All the Lord had to do was to give him a dream that gave him a desire to hold on tight to avoid the rain. And, in so doing, he held onto the boards of the house and was saved; without a scratch. Now, secular news outlets are not known for giving the glory to God, but here at Breaking Christian News, we will.

Source: FOX News

Louie Giglio, Laminin, and Gods Love, you gotta see this!

2008-05-12T22:23:00.002-04:00

Happy Day after Mothers Day

2008-05-12T10:50:00.003-04:00

Happy day after Mothers Day! That sounds better than "yuck Monday is here and it is raining to boot".

Reading the headlines in the news is a good way to help keep things in perspective. Cyclones, earthquakes, floodings, war.... makes me think of two things;

1. What do I really have to complain about!?
2. Jesus told us to watch for these signs

Guys, time is coming, hope you are right with God.

So, I have been reading Galatians from The Message. thought I'd share with ya.

It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on.

This isn't the first time I warned you, you know. If you use your freedom this way, you will not inherit God's kingdom.

But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way a fruit appears in an orchard- things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. we find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. 5:19-23

I had to check myself again after reading this. Ask myself where do I fall? I am so thankful for the gift of His Holy Spirit. That is how we know we are not orphans, because He leads us.

Hey, did I tell you we got an offer on our house? Yep, we ended our contract with the realtor, and decided to sell it ourselves. Within 24 hours we got our first offer. All we have to do is send this guy our bank account information and he will wire the money into our account because he want to move in by June. I am impressed. He has not even seen our house and he wants to buy it. And to think, all we have to do is give him our bank information... hahaha

Have a great Monday!

Peace!

Mothers Day

2008-05-11T22:50:00.003-04:00

Thus says the Lord:
Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom
Let not the mighty man glory in his might
Nor let the rich man glory in his riches
But let him who glories glory in this
That he understands and knows Me
That I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness,
judgement, and righteousness in the earth
For in these I delight, says the Lord
Jeremiah 9:23-24

Happy Mothers Day!

I had a nice day today. Spent it at home with my girls. We had planned for a picnic, but it was a rainy day, so we stayed home and had a good dinner. Rice and beans! Yum! And a baked chicken with some veggies of course.

Stepped on the scales this morning, day started out great, lost 6 pounds this week. May they not find a map back home.

Of the gifts and the cards, do you know what I love the most? The hand made cards from my little girls. I treasure them. You know you are loved when you see the hard work that goes into a handmade gift from your child and the joy they have when they present it to you.

Sara got me a new Pink CD. I am going to really miss her when she leaves home. I hope not soon. Our relationship has really changed this past year. Of course I will always be the protective mother, but we are becoming friends and I like that.

We went to an art walk yesterday. I may be biased, but Sara is a far better artist than most of what I saw. I am so proud of her and I hope she never loses her dream.

I have nothing much to ramble about today. It has been a relaxing day to unwind. My day just got better because my son called me. Love you Mo!

Weapon of Warfare

2008-05-10T20:21:00.003-04:00

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 NKJ

I heard the most funniest thing today.Ok, not haha funny, but weird funny. As well meaning as this person was that said this statement, I had to walk away and scratch my head. A group was getting ready to go and street evangelize, for that I am thrilled, that is my heart and it was very nice and encouraging to see a group stepping out and I know God will honor that.

As they gathered, the leader gave them some instructions, go out in two's, how to approach the people, etc... but then he said something that I thought strange, he said not to use any scripture when witnessing to the people. Now I am sure that what he meant to say was, do not come off sounding all religious and scare these people, at least that is what I hope he meant. He told then to pray with these people and invite them to the church service they were having.

Ok, if the intention is to get these lost souls to church, then alright, I guess...

But if it is to save their souls, uh... you can not do that without the word. The word is our sword, it is our weapon. We do not go into the battle without our weapons. We are using he big guns when we use the word, responsibly, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Now, as you can probably tell if you have been following my blog, I am a follower of The Way of the Master. (click on their link to the right of this page) Preach the law first and let it do it's job and then preach grace. How else can a person be truly saved if they do not know what they are being saved from?

Many people think they are good people and will go to heaven based on that and many people think they will go to heaven because they go to church. How can a person know they are a transgressor, a law breaker, a criminal and will stand judgment and face execution unless they know the law and see they have broken it and need a bail bondsman, someone to pay their fine, which the penalty is death, a savior, Jesus Christ?

As my husband and I were discussing this earlier, I was reminded why people do not want to hear or are afraid to preach the law, because it offends people. Tell an adulterer they are going to hell, could make him feel a little uncomfortable, tell a person they are going to hell because they cheated on their taxes, might sound harsh, but what is worse is leading someone in "the prayer" and they have no clue what the cost was for their free ticket to heaven and you have created a false convert who will end up in hell anyway. Now what is worse? Offend someone with the word or help someone go to hell?

Ouch Stacey! That is mean don't you think.

Go the http://www.thewayofthemaster.com/ and listen to their message on Hells Best Kept Secret and The Difference Between a True and False Conversion. It is revolutionary and I promise you will see witnessing a whole new way. Even Jesus said He did not come to bring peace, but a sword.

If you know me, you know I am not a critical person. I do hope you have not misunderstood me. I want to encourage you, do not be afraid or ashamed to use the word. It is ok if someone gets offended, better yet if they get saved, but that is between them and God. What are the chances you will be stoned, hung on a cross upside down, beheaded, boiled alive, fed to lions or imprisoned. (speaking to Americans here). Jesus said the world hated Him and the world will hate you too, so you are in good company.

Now I am not saying to use Gods word as a club and beat them over the head with it. No, rightly divide the word and to do this you must know the word and you must know Him who is the Word.

Now go ye....

Gotta run, an 8 year old is needing attention.

Revival? Continued

2008-05-08T09:38:00.003-04:00

I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen.
2 Timothy 2:10 NLT

So I go to the church last evening and no one was there. I waited and then came home. Turns out they called (the same day) and left a message, but I did not get it in time. Apparently there is a "revival" happening and the church canceled the service so they can go.

At first I was annoyed because I took the nite off work, then I was disappointed, because I believe I had a word for those young people. Ok, am I being unreasonable? I know, get over it, it is not all about Stacey. I hope God showed up at the meeting and people got saved.

I get home and I reminded of an e mail I received, I posted it the other day if you want to read it. I check my e mail and I receive another e mail, you know one of those mass emails, encouraging everyone to get down to the revival, great things are happening, or watch it on their web site. Hmm..

Then I read on another local blog about a revival breaking out in their church.

Now, I do not want to sound critical, but no one mentioned salvation. they were sure to mention healings, slaying in the spirit, drunkenness in the spirit, and there was a lot of focus on the "speaker" but no mention of salvation.

I agree with the post before this one, (scroll down) where is the fear of the Lord? Where is Holy reverence? Where is the transformation and the conformation into the image of Christ?

I bet the guy who wrote that e mail in my last blog was trembling when he wrote it and especially when he hit the send button, because I know I am now. So, I will say no more, I just pray the Lord give you discernment and you do not ignore it.

Beware when someone say "peace, peace" and there is no peace.

To the right of this blog is a link to The Way of the Master, please click on it. There is no salvation without the cross. Drunken giddiness, personal gain and charismatic speakers do not bring salvation from the judgement that is to come, only the cross of Jesus Christ can do that.

His!

Revival

2008-05-04T23:15:00.002-04:00

Hi Guys,
This weekend went by too fast! Went fishing with Tim and girls Saturday, the girls had a blast reeling the fish in. Today, Sunday, went to a co workers babyshower. It was nice. I ate too much yummy stuff, so I will have to double up on the turbo jams!

This weekend I have been preparing for Wednesday. Remember I will be speaking to a group of young adults and youth. I am so excited. I believe the Lord is really giving me a message for them.

I have been hearing God speak to me this past week. Calling me to lay down the burdens that I have picked up. It is kind of like walking on a path and getting so side tracked that you look down at your feet and you find that you have somehow gotten on the wrong path.

I am so humbled by His love and His patience. I want to once again feel that fire of my first love. To feel His closeness so close that if I turn around I will bump into Him. I want to love like He loves and forgive like He forgives. I want to fullfill the calling that He has given me and the purpose He set before me.

As my friends, can you pray for me?

I am adding an e mail that I received from a friend. I know it is kinda long, but I think it is very important. Please read it.

I love you and I am thankful for you!

His!

VISION of TRUE and FALSE REVIVAL> -by Patrick Ersig. Here is the account of a vision from God that I received regarding true and counterfeit revival. This vision occurred on March 4th 2006.

The VISION: Everything was black and I saw one person walking at a semi-brisk pace. Not
fast walking, but a slight cadence above normal pace. Walking with purpose. This person was walking straight and sure - upright and strong - solemn and serious, like a revolutionary - a warrior - a light to darkness.

I then saw a couple more people and then others in the distance and they were bright and shining against the blackness that was all around. They all walked the same way - solemn and serious and the Lord spoke and said, "These are my remnant who are walking in holiness, righteousness, obedience, brokenness and utter submission to MY WILL - watch what I am doing Patrick." Then I saw the individuals begin to unite in small groups of two to three at first and then more came and the groups grew to five and even ten and the light intensified greatly. It was beautiful like a sunset over the mountains or a sunrise on the ocean, a rose in full bloom.

What I saw next made me burst into tears and sobs to the point that I couldn't continue to describe what I was seeing. My wife keep saying "What?!, what is it? What to do you see?!" After a few minutes a was able to control the weeping to explain what I saw happening. As the Lord was drawing together His remnant into these small groups the power God came down - like in the book of Acts - the lame were walking, the blind were seeing, the deaf were hearing, (literally and figuratively) and persecution fuelled the fire! This end time HOLY and RIGHTEOUS remnant of serious and solemn warriors and revolutionaries walked in the deep darkness of America and her backslidden lukewarm churches with apostolic glory and power not seen since the book of Acts - to proclaim the true Gospel of Jesus Christ - repentance and holiness and freedom from sin! The Lord spoke and said, "This is the revival that I am bringing about and it starts with the individuals who have been called out to personal revival and are walking straight and sure - upright and strong - solemn and serious, like revolutionaries, warriors, lights to darkness. My remnant is walking in holiness, righteousness, obedience, brokenness and utter submission to MY WILL and I am drawing them together." Then the vision switched.

Now I saw what looked like a dimly lit movie or a video shot with poor lighting. I saw clips of people dancing and shaking. I saw people falling down, shouting, jumping, and singing. There were huge multitudes rather then the few and many, many were coming in large groups that filled large auditoriums and stadiums instead of small groups of individuals being drawn together. Even some of the lights that were in the first part of the vision were drawn to this part of the vision. I saw dancing and clapping, shaking, shouting, strong and powerful emotionalism and sensationalism. Soulish and fleshy spirits claimed to be the Holy Spirit. Great miracles abounded - signs and wonders. People proclaimed, "This is the revival we have been waiting and praying for!! -This is the revival we have heard prophesied!!! - This is the outpouring of the Holy Spirit - a great move of God!" But the Lord spoke and said, "Patrick this is not from me - this is from Satan - it is a counterfeit!! And many will be fooled and tricked by this clever deception from the enemy!" Then the vision switched again. Now I saw both visions side by side - split screen, so to speak. They both grew in intensity at an equal rate - as the true would grow in power, the false would grow in numbers and as the true would grow in numbers, the false would grow in false signs and wonders. The Lord spoke and said, "This is not a vision of the future, but this has already begun and will grow as the days pass. I am doing this now and the enemy is coming against it at this very moment."

Conclusion: The Lord is bringing about an end times revival of which the like we have never seen and it begins with you. The Lord is calling you to be separate, to holiness and righteousness unto the Lord and to walk in obedience and utter submission to His will. Be free from sin, be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect, be dead to flesh and alive IN Christ. Walk sober and solemn and serious before the Lord with a reverent and holy fear of God. If you are looking and waiting for some big corporate outpouring of emotionalism and signs and wonders you are going to miss the coming revival. The revival starts with you! Seek the Lord and press into Him closer everyday. Allow the Blood and Grace of Jesus to break the bonds of your flesh and produce Holy and Righteous living in your life. Ask the Lord to show you what it is in your life that is keeping you from that which is perfect - no matter how small or how painful; ask the Lord to expose everything that is keeping you from being closer to Him and bring Glory to Him and His kingdom and deeply renounce all that He shows you. Live your life as a living sacrifice - a living drink offering poured out before the Lord for His glory and honor. There are many things that are cultural, societal and religious that keep us separated from God and walking in His Spirit.

Pray for God to bring these things to light and put them to death no matter how hard it may be. If you don't realize that the revival the Lord is doing begins with you individually, then you are going to miss it! The Lord is calling you today, repent for your lukewarmness and your lackadaisical attitude toward sin in your own life and those who are perishing and plunging into hell all around you everyday! The Lord is calling you today to allow the Blood of Jesus and the grace of God to produce holiness and rivers of righteousness in your life that you maybe salt to a decaying world and light to the darkness that prevails. What will you do? The Lord is calling you right now to make up your mind to love Him with all your heart, mind, soul and strength, take up your cross, die to self and follow HIM - forsaking ALL and seeking after Him with all that you are and have. Come out and be separate in holy, righteous obedience unto God! WARNIG - DO NOT be fooled by these sensual, emotional counterfeits that are and will be popping up, that these people and churches call "revival". IT IS A TRICK FROM THE ENEMY! When you hear that "revival" has broken out in the next town or the next state or even in your own city - please remember this warning. There will be much singing and dancing and shouting and many things will sound as though they are true. There will be great surges of emotion that will cause people to fall down and jump and shout, cry and weep but this is not from God. Many will be crying out in joy, "Peace, peace". But God's Servants will have discernment above and beyond any gift, and a willingness to die than lie - despite the increase of signs and wonders from all of the counterfeit moves around them in the 'churches'. If the "revival" you are in is not serious and reverent, holy and righteous, and the Love and reverent fear toward God are not the only things you see, then RUN FOR YOUR LIFE, and warn everyone you know. These spirits are strong and extremely powerful - get out of the building and don't be fooled by the signs and wonders. Please, I am begging you to remember this, for I know that there will be many who are fooled and even (if possible) drawn away from the real to the counterfeit, but I also know that there will be some who read this warning and remember it and are spared.

The true revival army will look like small bands of revolutionaries or Special Forces with an end times mission to complete and Satan's counterfeit will resemble a band of wild Indians or tribal warriors dancing shouting battle cries. The true revival army will attack the enemy at its stronghold, sin - their mission will be the souls of men through the power of the Holy Spirit - they will be concerned with setting people free from the bondage of sin through the message of the cross and will watch strongholds of sin topple. Satan's counterfeit will go after places and methods of sin - they will try to legislate morality and get laws changed, which results in forced morality and no salvations. God's army will seek to save that which is lost in the streets and alleys - Satan's army will try to change the laws to prevent sin but result in the salvation of no one. "Whosoever loves his life shall lose it. Whosoever loses his life for MY sake, shall find it." Satan you are on notice! God is preparing a revival army that is going to> tear down the strongholds of your kingdom and Jesus is preparing a bride for Himself that is spotless and pure! God is calling to make a decision right now - what will you do?!

~READ MORE: This vision along with much information and discussion on the current 'Florida healing revival' can be found on the Forum at the following website- http://www.revivalschool.com ~NOTE: Andrew Strom will be on 'Watchmen Radio' this Sat night (USA time)> discussing this whole movement and related issues - http://www.nextcrusade.com . YES! - You have permission to post these emails

One Day Closer

2008-05-02T14:05:00.002-04:00

Well, we are still here. The house still says "For Sale", and so does many other houses up and down the road. Will someone please buy our house! I will even throw in a dog.

Guess what! I will be speaking to the youth and young adults at The City of Refuge Wednesday. I am really excited. As I have been preparing, of course nothing is coming to mind. I have it inside me, I will just trust God to bring it forth. It is truly a privilege to be able to speak life into the lives of young people and an awesome responsibility to go for God.

What I really want to impart to these young people is that God has a plan and a purpose for them, not just for them alone, but for His glory. These are treacherous times we are living in and the signs are all around us that Jesus will be coming soon. And of course as an evangelist, I want them all saved!

Please be in prayer for me for Wednesday.

Gotta go get ready for work soon. I just wanted to touch base and encourage you to stay strong in the faith and keep looking upwards, because He is coming soon to reclaim His own. We are not forgotten, God knows our name!

Urgent Update

2008-04-27T22:49:00.003-04:00

But do you not know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?
James 2: 20

Guys,
I just got this e mail and for those of you on my e mail list I sent this out to you already.
I urge you to read this and then DO something!

How many times have you watched a movie of genocide of the Jews, or the killings in Rwanda or Sudan, etc. and said "how did that ever happen? Why didn't someone do something?"
This is your chance to do something! To do nothing is to pull the trigger yourself.

Letter from Zimbabwe sent in by John Winter -- 4/25/2008
I reckon that these are the last days of TKM and ZPF. The darkest hour is always before dawn.
We are all terrified at what they are going to destroy next........I mean they are actually ploughing down brick and mortar houses and one white family with twin boys of 10 had no chance of salvaging anything when100 riot police came in with AK47's and bulldozers and demolished their beautiful house - 5 bedrooms and pine ceilings - because it was "too close to the airport", so we are feeling extremely insecure right now.
You know - I am aware that this does not help you sleep at night, but if you do not know - how can you help? Even if you put us in your own mental ring of light and send your guardian angels to be with us - that is a help - but I feel so cut off from you all knowing I cannot tell you what's going on here simply because you will feel uncomfortable. There is no ways we can leave here so that is not an option.
I ask that you all pray for us in the way that you know how, and let me know that you are thinking of us and sending out positive vibes... that's all. You can't just be in denial and pretend/believe it's not going on.
To be frank with you, it's genocide in the making and if you do not believe me, read the Genocide Report by Amnesty International which says we are - IN level 7 - (level 8 is after it's happened and everyone is in denial).
If you don't want me to tell you these things-how bad it is—then it means you have not dealt with your own fear, but it does not help me to think you are turning your back on our situation. We need you, please, to get the news OUT that we are all in a fearfully dangerous situation here. Too many people turn their backs and say - oh well, that's what happens in Africa. This Government has GONE MAD and you need to help us publicize our plight--- or how can we be rescued? It's a reality! The petrol queues are a reality, the pall of smoke all around our city is a reality, the thousands of homeless people sleeping outside in 0 Celsius with no food, water, shelter and bedding are a reality. Today a family approached me, brother of the gardener's wife with two small children. Their home was trashed and they will have to sleep outside. We already support 8 adult people and a child on this property, and electricity is going up next month by 250% as is water.How can I take on another family of 4 -----and yet how can I turn them away to sleep out in the open?
I am not asking you for money or a ticket out of here - I am asking you to FACE the fact that we are in deep and terrible danger and want you please to pass on our news and pictures. So PLEASE don't just press the delete button! Help best in the way that you know how.
Do face the reality of what is going on here and help us SEND OUT THE WORD.. The more people who know about it, the more chance we have of the United Nations coming to our aid. Please don't ignore or deny what's happening. Some would like to be protected from the truth BUT then, if we are eliminated, how would you feel? "If only we knew how bad it really was we could have helped in some way".
[I know we chose to stay here and that some feel we deserve what's coming to us]
For now,--- we ourselves have food, shelter, a little fuel and a bit of money for the next meal - but what is going to happen next? Will they start on our houses? All property is going to belong to the State now. I want to send out my Title Deeds to one of you because if they get a hold of those, I can't fight for my rights.
Censorship!----We no longer have SW radio [which told us everything that was happening] because the Government jammed it out of existence – we don't have any reporters, and no one is allowed to photograph. If we had reporters here, they would have an absolute field day. Even the pro-Government Herald has written that people are shocked, stunned, bewildered and blown mindless by the wanton destruction of many folks homes, which are supposed to be 'illegal' but for which a huge percentage actually do have licenses.
Please! - do have some compassion and HELP by sending out the articles and personal reports so that something can/may be done. "I am one. I cannot do everything, ---but I can do something.. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do. What I can do, I should do. And what I should do, by the grace of God, I will do." -
Edward Everett Hale

Stand Up

2008-04-26T13:40:00.002-04:00

I hope all who read this blog will join in intercession for Zimbabwe. We, with our freedoms, will be held accountable for our stewardship of our freedom. We can not, we must not, stand idle while there is such horrific genocide taking place in any part of the world.

I thank God I was born in the United States. Do you not know that God places you where you are. Nothing is by chance. He has chosen your borders. What are we as a people going to do with this? Do not be sidetracked, be focused. Make a difference.

Here is a news clip, please pass this on.
Peace!

Church in Zimbabwe Calls for International Day of Prayer April 27 Dan Wooding (April 26, 2008)
May a continual, strong stream of prayer and supplication flow up to the Lord on behalf of all the people on this Day of Prayer, exhorting His divine intervention throughout the nation.
(Harare, Zimbabwe)—According to the British website Ekklesia, the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe has asked Christians around the world to focus their prayers this Sunday on the critical situation in the country. (Photo: CNN)
Making the call, Rev. Bob Stumbles, Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of Harare, described Zimbabwe as "a nation in dire distress and teetering on the brink of human disaster."
It needs to be rescued from violence, the concealing and juggling of election results, deceit, oppression and corruption, to bring about righteousness, joy, peace, compassion, honesty, justice, democracy and freedom from fear and want, the chancellor said.
"Let the cry for help touch your heart and mind. Let it move you to do what you can immediately to ensure this Day of Prayer takes place in your country and neighborhood.
"May a continual, strong stream of prayer and supplication flow up to the Lord on behalf of all the people on this Day of Prayer, exhorting His divine intervention throughout the nation."
The Ekklesia story concluded, "The call comes as Christians in the country said they feared genocide, and a call was made for an international arms embargo against the country."
Source: Assist News

Prayer Alert for Zimbabwe

2008-04-21T22:47:00.003-04:00

Prayer Alert! Pleas from Zimbabwe Teresa Neumann (April 21, 2008)
We have to let the world know what is happening...Please stand with us in South Africa in praying for a country crying out for deliverance!

(Harare, Zimbabwe)—In 2007, Communist President Robert Mugabe was given the title "The World's Worst Dictator" by Parade in 2007. After winning a supposedly rigged election, the Christian Science Monitor (CSM) reports that human rights groups say his militias are setting up "torture camps" to beat opposition supporters, and opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai has fled the country in fear for his life. (Photo: AP)The majority of Zimbabweans are Christian.

Addressing the escalating crisis, former United Nations Secretary, General Kofi Annan, has called on African leaders to resolve the Zimbabwe crisis. "On the question of Zimbabwe, there has been substantial international attention," he said. "The question which has been posed is: Where are the Africans? Where are their leaders and the countries in the region, what are they doing? It is a rather dangerous situation. It's a serious crisis with impact beyond Zimbabwe."
Human Rights Watch is quoted as saying pro-government militias—including hundreds of so-called "war veterans"—are arresting and beating anyone suspected of having supported Mugabe's opposition. "It's a time bomb because people are unhappy and they are bottling up their anger," says Eldred Masunungure, a political science lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe.

BCN subscriber Heidi Rootman from South Africa wrote asking for prayer. Said Rootman: "I would like to call on all Christians worldwide for an urgent prayer request regarding our neighboring country Zimbabwe, a country that is crying out for deliverance from the poverty and cruelty that they have suffered under Robert Mugabe's reign. A shipment of weapons including rocket driven grenades, mortars and other heavy ammunition is seeking a harbor after being refused to dock at the South African harbors. These weapons are headed directly for Zimbabwe so that the wave of intimidation and terror can continue for anyone daring to vote for the opposition, as a revote may be on the cards. This man apparently wiped out hundreds of thousands of people, obliterating entire towns and communities at the start of his reign. He has not changed.

Please pray with us the following:

• that God's will and purpose be accomplished in the present situation.

• for confusion in the ranks of the enemy and that his plans for Zimbabwe be thwarted.

• for that what is hidden and been done in darkness be exposed.

• that this ship from China carrying weapons will not be able to dock anywhere and that these weapons will not reach their destination.

• a release in the present situation so that things do not go the Kenya way.
Please stand with us in South Africa in praying for a country crying out for deliverance!

From her home in France, Anne Elmer, author of Transported by the Lion of Judah, shared the prayer requests she has received from friends in Africa. These letters are full of reports of murder, and it is evident that the current crisis in Zimbabwe is of a racial as well as a political nature. Said "Kerry" from Zimbabwe: "There was a carefully orchestrated war vet attack on the few remaining white owned farms in Masvingo. The farms that I know were invaded were the Goddards, Connors, Borland, Richards and Sparrows. The whole Pa Nyanda Lodge was taken over and Graham and Cally were given an hour to leave their house. They did so with a few photos and valuables, but didn't even have time to pack a suitcase...surely, the outside world cannot sit back and allow a repeat of 2002. There is huge military deployment as we speak, and the people are becoming fearful."

"Please pass this email on to as many folks as you would like to," said another. "If you know of anyone in the media, all the better. We have to let the world know what is happening."

Source: Scott Baldauf - Christian Science Monitor

A Most Fantastic Day

2008-04-20T22:48:00.002-04:00

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds, casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ
2 Corinthians 10:4,5

Today is a rainy Sunday. I had the day off from work. I had such a wonderful and peaceful day. Guess what we did today. Our washing machine is on the brink until the repair man cometh, so we went to the laundromat. I have not been to one of those for so long. It was kinda fun. Ok, are you thinking I need to get out more often? haha Tim and I did it together and that was fun.

Then we went out for lunch with the girls and came home and relaxed the rest of the day. Tim made dinner so I get to do the dishes, which are still sitting out there. Maybe the rapture will come and get me out of it. Hmmm...

I have really praying that God move me out of my job. Not cause me to be unemployed, but to open an other door. I really want to focus on my writing. I do miss being home in the evenings with the family. I am thinking about joining an on line writing community, to help with accountability and critique for my writing. I will start posting some of my work and you guys can read it and give me some feedback.

So I noticed gas is $3.49 today. Does anyone else see a problem here? I was going to go outa town today, but perhaps it is more important that we eat, huh? It has got me thinking what can we do to cause change?

The New Yorker has the best cartoons. There is one of an older couple sitting on a couch watching t.v. and the caption says "When we retire, I want to watch travel videos" What happened to the American dream, huh? What a true, but sad commentary. What is wrong with seniors working at the age of 80 still working to buy their meds? I wonder how much more we will take?

Do you think perhaps we have become blind sighted? Working for something that is not eternal and never achieving what we are striving for? Can greed ever be satisfied and will fear never bow? Certainly I am not suggesting we all quit working and be lazy, but guys, let's focus. Are we impacting the world around us? Is our sphere of influence be influenced for Christ or is our love growing cold? Do we have oil in our lamps?

Those of you who know me, know my heart is evangelism. But I will confess to you, working a secular job is hard. It is a battle to not give into the pull of the world. Thank God for His grace and love that does not let me go. We have His Holy Spirit to remind us what our goal is. There is no prosperity gospel or a poverty gospel, but the gospel of Jesus Christ is what leads to an abundant life. So keep your focus. Encourage each other, pray for one another, it does matter!

By the way, pray for us to sell our house sooooon! We want to be in Florida before classes start. Pray not only for us to sell our house, but pray for the next family who will live here and pray for our future neighbors and church family. Remembering God sets His boundaries around us and He decides where we will live.

I love you guys. Keeping the faith!

He is still here!

2008-04-17T09:05:00.004-04:00

For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.
Romans 11:29

Hey guys!It has been awhile since I last posted here. A lot of stuff has been happening here. But thank God the sun is shining today and I am still standing. I have been going through a sifting and I am so thankful for my friends that are standing beside me and encouraging me without judgement and praying me through. I love you!

Well, the house is still on the market. Can not wait until that sign changes from for sale to sold. Next stop is Florida. I am excited and looking forward to the change (and the ocean!) My two youngest do not share my enthusiasm. Savanna is convinced we will all die in a hurricane. She said "Mommy, we can't go there, the good die young." So, I told her to just continue being bad and she will not have to worry about it. haha She says some funny things sometimes.

Yahoo, guess what! I lost two sizes. Still got more to go, but I am getting there. I got the Turbo Jam DVD's. Chalene Johnson is great. Now as you know, I have a little problem with things holding my interest for any length of time ( I am not a good movie date) but these DVD's are fantastic. I am feeling the results. My girls laugh at me when I work out in the mornings. They sit on the couch and my 8 year old plays the role of Simon, haha I told her to go ahead and laugh, but Mama is gonna look good this summer.

God is so faithful. I have really been struggling these past couple months. Have been a dark place. I will confess some of it was because of choices that I have made and there is no need to elaborate. But I just want to give glory to God right now. He has kept His word and He has not forsaken me and He has not left me.

Now I know I am not the only one who has experienced this, but I was so down I thought I would never get up. When my mind battled hell and I fought to just hold on, Jesus did not let go of me. When I cried because I could not pray and just sat with my Bible on my lap and could not read it, Jesus did not let go of me. When I continued to walk in the opposite direction, still He was there. When I heard His voice, I cried because I remembered all the promises and was very afraid I blew it, but He was there.

Do you know where He took me? He took me to David, the man after His own heart.

Have mercy on me, O God
According to Your loving kindness
According to the multitude of Your tender mercies
Blot out my transgressions
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity
And cleanse me from my sin

For I acknowledge my transgressions
And my sin is always before me
Against You, You only, have I sinned
And done this evil in Your sight-
That You may be found just when You speak
And blameless when You judge

Behold, You desire truth in my inward parts
And in the hidden part, You will make me to know wisdom

Hide Your face from my sin
And blot out all my iniquities
Create in me a clean heart, O God
And renew a steadfast spirit within me
Do not cast me away from Your presence
And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation
And uphold me by Your generous Spirit
O Lord, open my lips
And my mouth shall show forth Your praise

Psalm 51: 1-6,9-12,15

Remember, as He has caused me to remember, He is a good father and His gifts are irrevocable and His promises are yes and amen! It is not sacrifice He desires, but a broken and contrite heart.

Humbly His!

Reader Beware

2008-03-09T11:35:00.003-04:00

This only I want to learn from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by hearing of faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh? Have you suffered so many things in vain - if indeed it was in vain?
Galatians 3:2-4

Can we be real here?
I mean..can I be honest and transparent for a moment? Can I ask you a question and are you willing to think about it and give me an honest answer?
Are you weary?

Does it seem like you are walking a treadmill that goes nowhere? Come on, be honest, lay aside everything you think you know and forget the stock answers.
Are you weary?

OK, here is a shocker (or not)- I am weary!
Yep, you heard it first, from the person you thought had it all together.
The Bible says confess your sins so that you may be healed. Being weary is not a sin. What you do when you are weary could lead to sin, if you turn from God and ignore the convictions.

I work a secular job. Most of the people I work with are "good" people and I have really come to care about most of them. As far as I know, I am the only believer- or should I say, practicing believer (if that is a correct term) I am lonely and I am struggling.
(*OK, a note/warning here for the RELIGIOUS people: This blog entry could upset you and tempt you to stone me, so hit the x button now)
Can we just be real! Can we take off those stinking plastic masks and reveal our imperfect selves, our humanity, and be OK with it? Can we just deal with it for Pete's sake. (who is Pete anyway?)

Do you ever feel like you are juggling raw eggs with your Christian walk? Ever get tired of saying "I am fine" when you know you aren't? This is too much pressure and it is pressure that we have put on ourselves because we have allowed ourselves to be indoctrinated with with false gospel. We my have started off right, but somewhere along the way, we took a wrong turn. Paul said it best when he asked,"...who bewitched you...?"

I have deleted most of what I wrote, because I guess I am too afraid of dropping my eggs, though what I really want to do is throw them at the wall. Religion stinks! And I long for my Jesus to once again reach down and pick me up and wipe me off and cradle me in His arms, so close I can hear His heart beat, and remind me once again that He has not forgotten me- again and again and again- because He is faithful, even when I am not.

Spring Fever

2008-03-03T11:51:00.002-05:00

What a fantastic way to wake up in the morning, to the sounds of birds singing. The sun is out and it is just a little chilly, but not too chilly. I have my windows open, a little, to let some fresh air in and so I can hear the birds better. If Tim were home he would most likely be closing the windows behind me.
It looks like it is going to be a beautiful day. Too bad it is Monday and I have to go to work. I hope you are all enjoying your day.
I found this prayer in my book, Prayers That Avail Much by Germaine Copeland and I want to share it with you. I am just feeling really thankful today and I wanna love on God, so I hope you join with me...

Our Father, which art in heaven, hollowed be Thy name.

Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless Yur holy name. I adore You and make known to You my adoration and love this day.

I bless Your name, Elohim, the Creator of heaven and earth, Who is in the beginning. It is You Who made me, and You have crowned me with glory and honor. You are the God of might and strength, hallowed be Thy name!

I bless Your name, El-Shaddai, the God almighty of blessings. You are the Breasty One Who nourishes and supplies. You are all- bountiful and all-sufficient. Hallowed be Thy name!

I bless Your name, Adonai, my Lord and my Master. You are Jehovah- the completely Self-Existing One, always present, revealed in Jesus, Who is the same yestarday, today, and forever. Hallowed be Thy name!

I bless Your name, Jehovah-Jireh, the One who sees my needs and provides for them. Hallowed be Thy name!

I bless Your name, Jehovah-Rapha, my Healer and the One who makes bitter experiences sweet. You sent Your Word and healed me. You forgave all my iniquities and You healed all my diseases. Hallowed be Thy name!

I bless Your name, Jehovah-M'Kaddesh, the Lord my Sanctifier. You have set me apart for Yourself. Hallowed be Thy name!

Jehovah-Shalom, I bless Your name. You are my Peace- the peace that transcends all understanding, which garrisons and mounts guard over my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Hallowed be Thy name!

I bless You, Jehovah-Tsidkenu, my Righteousness. Thank You for becoming sin for me that I might become the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. Hallowed be Thy name!

Jehovah-Rohi, You are my Shepard, and I shall not want for any good or beneficial thing. Hallowed be Thy name!

Hallelujah to Jehovah-Shammah, the One Who will never leave or forsake me. You are always there. I take comfort and am encouraged and confidently and boldly say, the Lord is my Helper; I will not be seized with alarm- I will not fear or dread or be terrified. What can man do to me? Hallowed be Thy name!

I worship and adore You, El-Elyon, the Most high God, Who is the First Cause of everything, the Possessor of heavens and earth. You are the everlasting God, the great God, the living God, the merciful God, the faithful God, the mighty God. You are Truth, Justice, Righteousness and Perfection. You are El-Elyon- the highest Sovereign of the heavens and the earth. Hallowed be Thy name!

Father, You have exalted above all else Yur name and Your Word, and You have magnified Your Word above all Your name! The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, and His name is Jesus! Hallowed be Thy name!
In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Who is God to you today?

The Constant Thread

2008-02-25T14:34:00.003-05:00

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.
Hebrews 13:8

I have a few minutes before I have to get ready for work and thought I might touch base with you. I had three days off in a row, so I feel like I had a mini vacation. Kinda hard to get motivated to go back to work when you just want to stay home with your family.
It is Monday, so back to the grind...
Savanna is working on her spelling, she declares the world is unfair and life is hard because she is going to be 8 years old in 3 days and she should not have to do any homeschool this week. To make matters worse she still has to do her math. On second thought, maybe going to work is not so bad, haha
Hey, if you want to check out a great blog go to http://www.livingwaters.com/ and check out Rays blog. I believe it is called Rays Comfort Food. I had a great time just reading the comments. It really makes you think.
A friend of ours stopped by last evening. We really enjoyed his visit. We got to talking about the things of God, which is always fun. We shared what each of us is struggling with and there was a common theme, funny....we were struggling with the same things. Maybe not the same details, but you know what I mean. It makes me think, we all struggle with stuff, no matter how long we have walked with God.
The great news is, though our circumstances change and the struggles change, God does not. If confusion is starting to set up camp, it is because we have allowed him in by neglecting our time alone with God and in fellowship with other believers. We can be filled with head knowledge and still not really believe.
Working in the secular world, it is hard sometimes. Often I feel like a bullseye for the demons of hell. I thank God that He is faithful. Just a short visit with friends, can strengthen us, when Jesus is the center. We have each other to remind us that we are not alone.
Let's stop being so busy with "life" and get busy with LIFE! I am talking to myself here. It is a lonely road to travel when we cut ourselves off from other believers.
Well, I have had a thousand and one distractions while writing this. I must go check the girls papers and get ready for work.
Hope you are having a great day!

Comfort in Sorrow

2008-02-23T21:35:00.000-05:00

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23

Hello friends. Sad news. The little girl I told you about in my last blog went home to be with Jesus. Her name was Alyvia, she was only 8 years old. Her funeral is tomorrow, so please keep her family in your prayers.
I did not know this little girl or her family personally, yet my heart breaks for her family. I could not sleep last night. I watched my little girl, who is also 8 years old, sleep peacefully between me and her father. I imagined the nightmare Alyvias mother must be going through (I am not overlooking her father, I am writing as a mom) and all I could do was pray for her and cry for her.
Did you ever have one of those days that your kids were just plucking your last nerve and you were counting down the minutes until bedtime? Then when they are finally asleep, they look so peaceful that you just want to wake them up. I want to encourage you right now to stop and look at what the Lord has done for you.
Perhaps you are in a time of trial or going through a great struggle and you are feeling like you are alone. And perhaps one of you have expeienced a loss of a loved one and you are grieving as Alyvias family is grieving.
Maybe you are thinking to yourself that it all sounds good, but you do not have anything to be thankful for. Then this is for you my friend, the Lord, the lifter of your chin, says He has not forgotten you and He has not forsaken you and He will never leave you.
When you feel that you have nothing left to hold onto, hang on to Jesus! He will bring you through. He is the reason of your hope.
Romans 8:18 says, "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
and Romans 8: 24,25 says, "For we are saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perserverance."
I leave you with this parting word, stay in the faith, the faith in Jesus Christ, and may His love that passes all understanding fill your hearts to overflowing and bring comfort to those who are grieving.
Agree with me now, Jesus, You have come to heal the brokenhearted. It is the name of Jesus that You, Father, comfort Alyvias family now, because You have loved them and have given them an everlasting consolation and good hope through grace.
I love you guys!

LAY ASIDE THE REGRETS & FOCUS ON THE BLESSING

2008-02-21T09:56:00.000-05:00

While He was still speaking, someone came from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, "Your daughter is dead. Do not trouble the teacher." But when Jesus heard it, He answered him, saying, "Do not be afraid; only believe, and she will be made well." Now all wept and mourned for her; but He said, "Do not weep; she is not dead, but sleeping." And they ridiculed Him, knowing that she was dead. But He put them all outside, took her by the hand and called, saying, "Little girl, arise." Then her spirit returned and she arose immediately.
Luke 8:49,50,52,53,54,55

Today is my son's 22nd birthday. It is a bitter sweet day for me. He is in NYC and I am here, three states away. Hard to believe my first baby is now a man. The little boy who wanted to grow up and be Micheal Jackson (yikes) or David Copperfield is now about to graduate college.
Those that know me well, know this is a tough day for me. It would be too emotionally exhausting to go into details now.
As I had my morning cup of coffee, I thought of my son and wondered what he was going to do to celebrate his birthday and how long it has been since I was able to celebrate his birthday with him and I almost began to do the mental inventory of the list of "what if's" and "I should have's".
Then a small voice said, "Stop it! Look at what you have today". I have three beautiful daughters, 8, 12 and 18, a very funny step son and beautiful step daughter. I have a home (which is for sale by the way) a hard working husband, wonderful friends and most importantly a relationship with Jesus.
So I think about my "what if's" and "should have's" and I marvel how God turned my twisted past and turned it into this. Though He still has a lot of work to do in me, He was not limited by my mistakes and hurts.
There is an e mail that I received about a little girl and her mother who was in a car accident recently. The mother, though banged up, is doing well, but the little girl is critical, her little body is broken and she is bleeding from every spot that can bleed. As I pray for this little girl and her family, I cry. I can not imagine what this little girls family must be going through right now. It is ok, if you should pause for a moment now and pray for her.
An EMS worker said it was amazing that everyone was in place when this accident happened. I say, God yes, God is amazing. Nothing is a surprise to Him. He knows what is going to happen and He makes a way.
My littlest girl likes to cuddle. She is a Mommy's girl for sure. Every time I leave for work, she stands in our yard and waves to me until I am out of sight. I know I will soon miss these days, because she will grow up. I told her she will always be my little girl, although it might look kinda silly when she is 16 and sitting on my lap.
People are funny. Why do we get so wrapped up in the now and not take time to really notice the beautiful gifts we have? How easy it is to take our focus off God and put it on things that depress or overwhelm us. When we do this, we begin to take for granted the gifts that God has given us, specifically our family and our friends.
Randy Carlson, (from Parent Talk) talks about intentional living. Now that is a revolutionary idea!
So will you purpose with me, to not just float threw life, being tossed to and fro' with every wave this life wants to throw at you and purpose to take the time to love someone, encourage someone, celebrate someone, laugh with someone, cry with someone, help someone, hug someone and keep your focus on the ONE who loves you and wants to love others through you.
I gotta run now, my littlest angel is calling for her mommy.
Love you guys!

Marital Bliss?

2008-02-19T14:36:00.000-05:00

"Haven't you read the scriptures?" Jesus replied. "They recorded that from the beginning 'God made them male and female' and He said 'this explains why a man leaves his mother and father and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. Since they are no longer two but one, let no one seperate them, for God has joined them together."
"Not everyone can accept this statement," Jesus said "only those whom God helps."
Matthew 19:4,5,6,11

Well my laptop is down. My husband was using it whie I was at work (even though he has his own and I asked him to not use mine). Even though it was not his fault, I implied that it was because he should not have been on it. Never mind that it has been giving me troubles, but I over reacted. (by the way, I am accepting donations for a new laptop, haha)
Sharing this with you brings me to my topic that I want to ramble about today, MARRIAGE.
It is not always easy is it? Especially when two imperfect people insist that they are perfect.
There is a young couple I know that are engaged to be married. Aaah, young love....
It has been my observation that they both have different ideas about the wedding day. He wants to do this and she wants to do that. We all have our own dillusions on the perfect wedding, the perfect marriage, the perfect children, the perfect home, the perfect in-laws(or outlaws) and the perfect pets, etc...Our expectations are not always reality, because we seem to forget that we are not perfect.
So I say to the bride to be, "take a good long look and hear my words" then in slow motion, I say "Foooooorrrrreeeeeevvvveeeerrrrr, until death do you part and he might live a long long time, do you love him enough? Can you committ to that? Divorce can never be an option and you will not always "feel" like you love him."
"Geeesh Stacey," she said. "you really bumbed me out."
Bumbing her out was not my intention, but I hope it causes her to think.
Our society is not marriage and family friendly is it? Without Jesus Christ being the center, I do not know how anyone can endure marriage. It certainly is not for the weak.
I did everything backwards. I did not have a relationship with Jesus when I married. How blesed are those who put Christ the center right from the beginning (living a sexual pure life will be a topic discussed later)
I love my husband, it is not always easy, but I thank God for him. One of the things that I have learned, am still learning, is that one person can not complete you. Only Jesus can do that. Knowing this, why do I still get frustrated? Could it be my own imperfections? Ouch!
Marriage should be a celebration because it is Gods gift to us. There is no such thing as "We should not have been together". Maybe you should not have, but you are now,and it has not caught God by surprise, He knew from the beginning.
So if you have doubts in your head and you find yourself looking for a way of escape, REMEMBER this,
divorce is not an option and neither is a dead marriage. So revive what you have and start with yourself.
Get alone with God and let Him do a work in you and He will take care of yur spouse.
Love each other and serve each other as unto God, even if it hurts.
Your reward will come from God. Who knows...maybe you will find you have a gem but did not even notice because you were too caught up in costume jewelry to recognize the real thing.
Love you!

Living For A Perfect God Imperfectly

2008-02-17T14:26:00.000-05:00

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it."
Matthew 13:47

Ok, maybe this is just a woman thing (though I do not think so) but is there anyone else who is tired of being ruled by their emotions. Why do we think everything has to be perfect? Humor me, just nod and smile, do not tell me I am the only one that deals with this issue.
How many times I wanted to do something for God and stopped because I fell into the religious bondage that I had to have everything else in order for God to use me. I was a mess! Just when everything was looking good (to me) I would say, "Ok God, You may use me now, because I can do it now" hahaha Then sure enough something else would know on my door. I would get a bad attitude with my husband, yell at my kids, etc... then right back I would go, putting restrictions on God, forgetting that without Him I can do nothing. I was not living in sin, I just was not perfect. Do you know what that was? That was religion!
I was just talking to my friend Loretta on the phone today. I shared with her how I use to struggle with my job, never thought my pulpit would be at a bar. I wanted to be in full-time ministry, and yet here I was, waitressing and bartending, because we have bills that need to be paid. I thought I missed Gods call on my life, because certainly if I had to go to work, especially this kind of work, I would not have time to be used by Him. I am just so glad His ways are not mine. I am amazed how often He gives me an opportunity to share Him with others. I told my friend I am really struggling with lonliness, I miss the fellowship with my Christian brothers and sisters and how several have made it clear how they felt about my job, as though I have fallen into a backslidden state. I must even confess I was afraid of how others would think about me. Fear of man is a road leading to death for sure!
There is a regular who comes into the restaraunt. I talk with him and his wife often about my faith. Now do not get the impression that I go in and beat people up with my faith, I do not. This gentleman comes from a pentecostal background and has walked away from his faith in God because of hurts by the church. Since he has walked away from God he has done some things that he knows is not pleasing to God. I really believe he wants to come back to God, but is afraid of the mess he thinks he has to clean up first and what will others think of him. I told him that he does not have to be perfect, God loves him and died for him on the cross, because without His death and resurection, there could be no pardon for our sins, our transgressions against His law, and that is the only way to eternal life, through Jesus Christ. Yea sure, there may be some music that he may have to face, but he will not be facing it alone, God promises to be with him. I do hope he remembers that.
Remember, God calls us to be holy, not perfect. We will not be perfected until we are face to face with our Creater. He calls us to be holy and since He says to be holy, then we can be holy, because He would not set us up for failure, we must remind ourselves that we can do all things through Christ Who strengthens us.
Well, it is time to stop rambling. My daughter has a friend on her way over to play, so I must get ready.
I thank God for you and I thank Him that who the Son sets free, is free indeed. Are you free?