Game on . . .

Yes that is right this my friends is Super Bowl weekend. I have been watching a little Create TV on my local digital PBS station, yes I heart PBS (most of the time. . . another story for another day, anyway . . .) and since we have gotten our digital box thingy it is even better. Now we have three, count 'em 3, PBS stations. I know . . . craziness. (umm and yes since we have a digital box thingy it means we have rabbit ears and no cable . . . we do not pay for tv . . . again another story for another day . . . anyway . . . =)

Oh yeah, and on 21-3 today is all about tailgaiting fingerfood Super Bowl style!! YAY!!! And so far it's been all yummy wings and the like. . . hope it stays that way . . . anyway . . .

Is it just me or is this post already strange? anyway . . . =)

Well I will tell you straight up -- and I'm talking straight on up . . . GO CARDINALS!!!!! I rooted for St. Louis when Kurt Warner was there (and yes I am a MO girl . . . anyway . . . ) But I just love the way he loves Jesus!!! I saw him on Wheel-of-Fortune (I heart WOF . . . anyway . . ) He made such an impression on me. He loved on Jesus right there in front of Pat and Vanna and the whole world. I heart that so!!!!! He is a difference maker in this world we live in and to be in the business he's in and to keep his integrity and his family (he and his wife have 7 children) in tact is quite an accomplishment. More so than even winning the Super Bowl, but I so hope they win!!!!!

So game on people!! Go ahead root for this real life, Jesus loving, Christ centered man and the team he plays for in the NFL, the Arizona Cardinals, but we know the real team he's on, and guess what WE WIN IN THE END!!!! HALLELUJAH!!!!! OUR TEAM WINS!!!!! JESUS WINS!!!!! Remember when your on that difficult road in that hard circumstance that if you are a child of the King, in the end our team wins!!!!!

I love you all so -- have a Blessed weekend,

Falling Up!!

Right now I am doing BMoore's study on David "A Heart Like His". And this week has been one that has really gotten the thoughts provoked.

In chapter 27 in I Samuel David ends up living in the enemy camp; the camp of the Philistines and actually becoming friends with King Achish. WHAT?!!

Let me just summarize this chapter for you. David goes to live in the Philistines camp because he thought that he would eventually be destroyed by the hand of Saul. That Saul had been pursuing him relentlessly and being a real nuisance. David had the chance twice to kill him, but would not, because he would not raise his had against God's anointed. Well now he finds himself running yet again and where does he run to? The enemy camp. And finds refuge. . . interesting.

It is also notable that David didn't go alone, no he took 600 men with him and their families. That's a lot of people.

While David is here he goes on raids and the Word tells us that he didn't leave a man or woman a live . . . What in the world?!!

At the end of chapter 27 King Achish tells himself that David is so stinky to his own people (my paraphrase) that he would be his servant forever. What?!!

How in the world did David find himself in this position? Wasn't he a man after God's own heart? He was indeed, and yet he found himself willingly, took himself, to the enemy camp. Wow!! God has really been talking to me from this passage this week.

How many times have I ended up in the enemy camp hanging out? Still a Christian, still in Christ, but yet cavorting in the enemy camp. What in the wide world is that?

How did David get to that place? His circumstances brought him to a place of decision. I believe David was tired of constantly being on the run from Saul, so he went to the one place he knew he would be safe from him. The Philistine camp. No way Saul was going in there after him.

Have you ever been that kind of tired? The world has worn you down and worn you out, and you just want a little peace, even if it's only for a season. So you go into the camp of the enemy, no one pursuing you, because your sitting in their camp. At least for the moment things seem calm. But child, it will not last. If you are coverting with the enemy, life is about to get very hard for you. Run child, out of that camp and back into the loving arms of Jesus!!

David had a choice. We have a choice. When our circumstances get rough we must decide what we will do. And that is when it becomes so important to have an intimate relationship with Jesus; have God's Word hidden in your heart. Fall down with your face to the ground so He can lift you up and help you find your way, so you do not find yourself in the enemy camp hanging out. It is a terrible place to find yourself.

We have had some very hard moments the last year or so. My fifth knee surgery was Feb of 2008 and that surgery set us on the road to Mayo and surgery number six, although we had no idea at the time. We could not have known the difficult times that lay ahead, but God knew and He was preparing us. He used those moments to teach and prepare us.

I am so thankful that He will never leave me or forsake me. He loves with an everlasting love. That is huge to me in this season and will continue to be huge to me. I do not want to ever spend anymore time in enemy camp. I want to live out loud for my Jesus!!!!!

I hope you all have a Blessed Friday. Continue to keep holding up the Stamps, Harper is so beautiful and doing so well. And remember all of the thousands of people without power right now as we speak and remember our nation in prayer.

Love and Blessings,

Oh the Fun . . .

So what in the world do you do with a sixteen year old when you are snowsleeticed in with?

Well let's see you watch Chronicles of Narnia - both movies (over two days). You play Yahtzee and watch him do the Yahtzee dance EVERY time he gets a Yahtzee; it's annoying =) jking -- You make the MOST fab brownies in the world and then wait to see if you have another snow day tomorrow. And then the fun starts all over again.

I love being snowed in with the boy!!! We've had a blast!!

Now if I could just get snowed in with hubs -- but alas, he worked again today and got stuck twice. Bummer. But got out both times.

He told me at lunch today that the secretary was having a snowball fight with some of the employees on the way in and after she got in they cleared off the parking lot and then she realized she didn't have her keys. They are in a HUGE snow mound on the parking lot somewhere. Bummer. She still hadn't gotten them out last I heard. Boo.

Hope you all have had a good day. I'm praying for ya'll who do not have power. We have not lost power this time.

Have a Blessed evening,

Brrrr . . . Ice and Sleet and Snow, Oh My!!!

Yep the weather is yucky here today. It has been mostly sleeting today, but we have a covering of ice underneath the sleet and they said this morning we could get an inch or two of snow on top of all this, this afternoon. But in NW AR it is much worse, there are now widespread power outages. My heart and prayers are with you. In January 2007, we had a huge ice storm here and was without power for five days. It is not fun, but I learned a lot through that. Like hang tough and stay in there. And kerosene is really hard to come by in such an emergency. And be prepared, you never know what will happen, keep your lamps trimmed (ya know what I mean?) Yes lots of lessons learned through that ice storm. We have more candles and a generator . . PTL.

I don't mind weather like this so much as long as my family is home and the power stays on and the cocoa is hot and the movie is good. WOW that was a lot of conditions huh? How many conditions do we put on our walk with the Lord? I'll follow Him as long as He takes care of this need, or answers that prayer, or doesn't take me down that road . . . just saying.

But today my dear husband did get out and went to work, so instead of worrying, I'm praying God will keep His circle of protection about my husband. I'll be so glad when he is back home and in my arms this evening.

So this is a pic of our backyard bird feeder . . yep the one I got from Georgia for Christmas. I LOVE it and so do the birds. I had a red bird enjoying the festive food, but he flew away (to warmer weather hopefully) as soon as I opened the back door to take a pic . . . brrrr it's cold out there!! anyway . . .


And this is the barrel on our back porch, you can see the ice better if you click on it and enlarge that baby. And we still have it coming down!!!



So that is our day today. Dak is home from school and Dick is at work providing for our family. I love this man so much I cannot even tell you!!!!!

Yesterday, my knee went kablooey!!!!! First day on the stationery recumbent of any real significance (and when I say significance I mean like a minute or two), and the old girl apparently just couldn't handle it yet. It felt okay right after I got off, but about an hour or two later it seized up. Not good. So I called hubs to find out what he suggested and he said he was on his way. And when he said on his way, he headed out the door. He called me about 20 mins later and he was out of town and about 15 mins from our home. I love this man!!!!!

Well he got home and started heating the tendons on the side and back of my knee and icing the knee itself, because it is HUGE!!!!! But it is all good!!!!! I'm not upset about it at all. I trust that God is doing a work in this knee and that He most importantly is doing a work in us. He is teaching us so much right now. He loves. He loves HUGE!!!!! So if you are struggling today with whatever it is, Trust Him!!! He created you and He loves you HUGE!!!!!

Please continue to pray for baby Harper, Kelly and Scott, the other baby's in the NICU and for each other. Pray for the thousands in NW AR that are without power.

Love to you,

MMMM . . . . Toes!!!

Do you ever wonder about the randomness of my titles sometimes? Yeah well, wonder no more.

This cuteness came to Grandpa, Grandma's and Uncle Dak's this weekend, him and his toes. He has found them ya know. And there is nothing better.

If there is one thing he loves it is being in just a diaper. But if there is anything he loves more, it would be his toes.

Yes I turned around to see this . . .



Busted!!!!! =)

Yeah for toes Grandma!!!!! (Oh to be that flexible, anyway . . .)






I tell ya he just brings a smile to our face and warmth in our hearts. We have so much fun with him.

On some other notes . . .

We are expecting an ice storm here starting this afternoon. So if I don't blog for a few days, that is probably why. We had a devastating ice storm in January 2007. We lost power for five days. It was not good, but God was!!!!! I learned so much through that experience. So this may be another opportunity for growth. Or maybe our power will stay on and we'll just be inside taking it easy.

Yes this is Monday and yes I should be posting a book review, but I did not get a book completed this past week. Bad me. I feel badly because this is my New Year's resolution and I want to stay with it, so I am continuing on this week. So hopefully next week I will have a MM-R post.

Please continue to pray for baby Harper, Kelly and Scott and the other teeny tiny's in the NICU!!! It has been absolutely faith-building to see God work in this situation!!!

Have a fun Monday and stay warm,

Hey Dak what's that in your teeth?

Umm, well yes that would be my NEW DRIVERS LICENSE!!!!!






What?-- when did this happen??!!!!! When did you grow up on me?!! And why on earth didn't you warn me of such nonsense =) ??!!!!!

He is so cute I can't hardly stand it!!!!! Umm yes this is his mother and yes it could be said that I'm bias, but I don't buy it. I mean seriously have you ever seen the likes? Cuteness with a license and a girlfriend -- oh man am I in trouble =)

Congratulations son!!!!! You are the best kid a mom could ever hope for. I love every second we spend together.

Last night I went in and asked Dak if he was done on the computer and if I could shut it off. He said, "I don't care, I'm pre-occupied." He was sitting on his bed looking up verses in his concordance in the back of his Bible on calling. How much do you love a teenager who is sitting on his bed studying the Word. I wanted to tackle him with hugs and kisses, but of course, that would have disturbed him, so I refrained and just watched from afar and listened as he came in toting his Bible and reading the verses he'd found and what they meant to him. He says he's going to do a lesson with them in CYC -- be still this mama's heart!!!!!

Well, I'm off to get the insurance squared away, so we have coverage on said 16 year old with a NEW LISCENSE!!!!!

Have a Blessed and fun day,

The Decision of Discipline . . .

Oops I said it -- the dreaded D word . . . Discipline. There are different types of discipline ya know. There is the art of discipline (my personal fav), the act of discipline (the difficult one sometimes) and then there's the plain old fashion kind of discipline, like when it comes to your kids (the one I'm probably the worst at -- I generally run and hide afterwards and feel awful and cry and run my mascara, its a mess, but more on that cheery note in a minute =)

So let's start with the art of discipline. This is what I mean by it being an art. When I participate in a Bible Study and I break the Word of God open with a friend . . . to me it is like art. To watch the scenes come alive from the written Word. It truly is an amazing thing!!! I look so forward to studying God's Word and sharing with someone and hearing their understanding of the same Scripture. GREAT!! But you have to practice discipline to take the time each day to participate in a daily study of the Word.

The act of discipline, are things like making sure our house is clean and the laundry done, beds made, floors swept. . . ya know, daily stuff that doesn't fall into the category of fun, but must be done. And that takes discipline in action!!

Now on to discipline just plain and simple, straight-up discipline of the children variety, and hence the main reason for this particular post. I considered posting about this when it happened, but didn't. But this is something I feel like God is prompting me to post, and maybe it's just because I will want to look back at it and remember it, but whatever the reason, I always want to be obedient, even in the seemingly, small things.

So Sunday evening, I had to have a discipline session with Dak. Now I talk a lot about him and show pics and brag, and love on him here on this blog, but the one thing I don't do is talk about our conflicts, because frankly there just aren't that many. Yes we have the no you cannot go there talks, or the you will not be able to wear that whatever, but for the most part, he respects our rules and trusts our judgment. He is just a really good kid.

But having said all of that, he certainly is not perfect and sometimes he has his moments, and one such moment came on Sunday evening. He asked me Sunday afternoon if he could cook chicken wings that we had in the freezer. I told him he could, but that he HAD to clean the kitchen when he was done, because it was clean and I wanted it returned the way he found it. No problem was the answer I got and he set about the cooking of chicken wings, which is a HUGE process. So I jumped in and helped him with the breading etc. (big job by yourself) and we talked and laughed and had our usual fun while cooking. So the wings didn't get quite done deep frying, so we baked them to finish them off. YUMMEE!!! (I'm assuming -- I don't partake in CW's -- anyway . . . )

Well (I'm sure ya'll can see where this is going) the kitchen did not get cleaned. So I told him, about 7:00 pm to get in there and clean it up, well he was on facebook with four people, so I told him to finish it up and get to the kitchen. Well about 30 minutes later, he still had not come into clean the kitchen, so I cleaned it up. (OK I know what your thinking, but I had had enough and wanted the kitchen cleaned before bed and it was starting to get late and decided that discipline was going to have to be in order). So after a while, he comes sauntering in and I told him he just needed to sit. So he knew at that point he was in BIG trouble.

I told him he would not have to clean the kitchen because it was done. He was shocked. I told him that I had something else in mind. He was to get his Bible and do some research and he was to write me a paper on obeying his parents. What God says about it and why it is so important. I told him I wanted it by Monday evening, and if he didn't get it done then he would be grounded (which means no date this weekend -- what?!!) I told him it was not alright that he did not obey.

So he went to his room and got his Bible and wrote his paper. Now I know that some of you maybe reading this thinking I'm crazy. But I'm telling you this is something that works for this family. There have been other offences that have required a paper to be written. Like the time he told a lie. We had him do a paper on The Truth. Oh yes there have been other times. And each time it ends with a very good conversation and good comes out of it and this time was no different.

This led to us having a good and honest conversation about obedience and why God requires it from us and why He requires it of children to their parents. And then that led to other things and it ended with a hug and an "I love you mom, sorry I didn't obey you". I love this child so much. I am not so much about doing things the way they've always been done, but doing things to help him learn. I could have just grounded him, but that would have just made him mad and me exhausted by the end of the week, and there would not have been the good discussion and the understanding. I believe in getting creative even in discipline, especially if it teaches young one a lesson.

Have a blessed evening,

Learning to Lean . . .

There are many things that God is laying on my heart to write about today. But one of the biggest things He's impressing on my heart today is the sense that He is teaching me to lean right into Him. Not to hesitate. He is there and He is ready. If I have a need, or I feel down, or I'm feeling vunerable, I don't have to wait on Him to get ready to receive me, He is always ready. I love that. I can just lean right on in and He receives me there. And hugs me right into Himself. It is a gentile and tender embrace and a loving response to my pain. He is my all in all!!!

Last week when I headed to PT, I felt God tell me to leave my Ipod here at home, but instead I went ahead and took it thinking that it would be okay anyway (why in the world do I do things like this). So I got in the car and plugged it in and started listening to it and I wasn't a mile down the road when I just felt so convicted and so impressed in my Spirit to turn it off, that I did. And as soon as I did God started speaking to me about the memory verses that He'd laid on my heart to start memorizing for this session via The LPM blog.

As He had impressed these verses on my heart, I thought that I hoped I could get them all memorized in two weeks and then when I went to The LPM blog and BMoore wrote on there not to memorize to many verses at once that the goal was 24 in the year, I cut my verses down to the two that I felt most sure about memorizing.

Well in my card file that I keep for MV I had written it both ways. First Romans 12:9-13 and then Romans 12:10-11. So as I was driving down the road I started memorizing vs 10-11 and by the time I got to the end of that road had it memorized (approx 8-10 miles). Then by the time I got to PT I had the entire 5 verses memorized. And I have been quoting them daily and praying them over baby Harper, Kelly and Scott, and have just been thanking God that He hid them in my heart for such a time as this.

Angie over at Bring the Rain, put out a request for all to pray Colossians 1:15-16 over baby Harper. So I have been praying those Scriptures along with others. Well I have felt compelled to start memorizing these two verses as well. I know that it is not Feb 1 and time to start my new MV, but I just feel like it is so imporant to have these verses hid in my heart for this time as well. So I will be writing them in my verse pack and memorizing them starting today. Would you like to join me?

Hiding God's Word in your heart is so very important. It helps you to lean in when things feel so out of control. You can think on the Word and instantly God draws you a little closer. And as I am going about my day I pray for baby Harper and Kelly and Scott many times and I just feel God drawing me to commit these verses to memory so I can pray them at anytime of the day, even when my Bible is not right there. So join me if you'd like on memorizing these verses to pray throughtout the day for sweet Harper Brown and her mommy and daddy.

I have so many things to blog about, but as I'm writing they just pale in comparison to the need that is in front of us, not only in Harper's situation but also in the other little one's in the NICU and the historic day this is for our country. There will be many changes coming up both good and certainly there will be some bad, but we must remember that God is in control of it all. This is a pivotal time for Christians to step up by going down on our faces before our Lord on the behalf of others and our country and the world that He created for us to we live in.

Romans 12:9-13 "Love must be sincere; hate what is evil, cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality."

Colossians 1:15-16 "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and for Him."

Blessings to you,

Updates and No MM-R --What?!!

So first of all let me please explain why there is no MM-R (Monday Morning Review). It is not because I didn't read a book this week because I did, and it isn't because I didn't do a report in Word to copy here, because I did. No it is because my computer went KAPLOOY!!! Don't ya just hate it when that happens, anyway . . . But of course hubs to the rescue. He is going to a computer fix-it place this afternoon after work to see if they can give us some guidance on just what to do to retrieve our data, pics (oh my stars I have HUNDREDS of GREAT pics on that laptop) and files even if it can't be fixed, but I'm sure hoping we can do a re-boot and whatever else and fix it. But we'll see. If not, that's okay. So if I can get it retrieved I will post it, but if not I will re-write and post it soon. The book I read this past week was "No Wonder They Call Him the Savior" by Max Lucado. This week I am reading "Twelve Extraordinary Women" by John McArthur.

So now on to some updates. First of all, I thought I'd just share with you what happened with my left leg yesterday. I sat down. Yes you read that right. No dancing, no flying through the air, no acrobats, no running, just sitting. I sat down and a shooting pain went through the ligament on the outside of my knee. Not good. So I am now keeping a wrap on it and being very careful with it. It popped again this morning, so we will see what happens with it. Hopefully it will settle down and start acting right . . . hmpfff.

No onto some more updateable news. A week or so ago I told ya'll about my cousin and her family that flew to China to pick up their 13 year old son MingZhi or Nick, which will be his American name. Well they have him and are now waiting to finish paperwork on Tuesday or Wednesday and then start their long journey home to Louisville on Thursday. Please remember them in your prayers. Not all has been smooth sailing and my dear cousin needs our prayers. But all seems to be well now, but there are still some hurdles to jump, so if you'd remember them, I'd be so grateful.

Now onto some pics from China!! YIPPEE!!!

Left to Right: Kaelyn, Devin, Cliff, Nick (MingZhi), and sweet Heather -- We love this family so!!!!!

This is Devin and Kae doing some sight seeing in Beijing. So cute!!!

And this is Devin and Nick arm in arm . . . how sweet is this, and so very encouraging to see. It would be tough being 13 and going to a new country with people you don't really know. So nice that him and Devin are so close in age (Devin is 12).

Please keep remembering Baby Harper, Kelly and Scott in your prayers. I'm believing God for a miracle for this baby and family.

Love you all!! Blessings to you,

So Taken by the Love of God!!!

I am sure that all who read this blog have heard of the situation with Kelly, Scott and Baby Harper. If you don't know, please go here to catch up. I was reading Jacquie's blog and she alerted me to Angie's blog and the plea that she sends out for us to pray Colossians 1:15-16 for baby Harper. Please join us as we pray for this baby whether it is this verse or another, because there are truly so many verses in the Word of God that we could pray over this situation. Just please pray. "The prayers of a righteous man are powerful and effective." (James 5:16b NIV)

I am so taken by the love of God. He is just washing over me with His love. I had something unfortunate happen this afternoon with my other knee and instead of getting upset or down I just give Him praise. He is in control and He is so teaching me that, and I am thankful!!! I don't know where this puts my recovery, but I am taking it a step at a time literally. So if it slows me down, it's okay, God is in control. I trust Him and love Him.

I heard from my cousin Heather this morning, and again I was so taken back by the love of God as I listened to the harrowing experiences they have been through on this journey to pick up their son. God is so good. They have him and will be finishing up paperwork on Tuesday and then will be headed home on Thursday and I can't wait for them to be back in the states. I nearly cried when I heard her voice, I love her so.

I have really been wanting to post the pictures that she has sent, but I didn't know if it was okay until today. So hopefully I will get pics up of their family complete with Nick, their new son from China posted tomorrow. He is just beautiful!! This is a beautiful family, both inside and out!!!

So as you lay your head on your pillow this eveing, pray for Harper and Praise Jesus for the work He is doing. BECAUSE HE IS DOING A WORK!!!!! He loves you dear one. Whatever the hurdle is you are facing, look up. He sees you and He loves you.

Love and Blessings,

Joyful in Hope, Patient in Affliction, Faithful in Prayer

As we fall before the Lord on behalf of little Harper, Kelly and Scott Stamps and family the Lord has laid my current memory verses on my heart. There is a reason I have been able to memorize them so quickly. He woke me up in the night with these verses spilling forth from my heart.

Romans 12: 9-13 "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil, cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality."

Father,
You are God alone and You know what is happening right now with this dear family. I pray Father that you will heal baby Harper. I know that You are sovereign O Lord and that You know all. I trust You Father. I believe for this child and family. I pray that you will open her little lungs, and they will start properly functioning. Be with every Doctor and nurse that has anything to do with Harper's care. Guide every step, be in every move they make. You are God alone!! Be with Kelly and strengthen her body and give her peace. Be with Scott and hold his hand Lord. Touch this entire extended family with Your grace to help them in their time of need Lord. Encamp Your angels around them and keep Your circle of protection above them Father. You are God Alone!!! I love you so much Father and praise Your Name. To Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly more that all we can ask or imagine ~~ You Alone get the glory for all!!!!!!! Amen

Pray for Kelly!!

UPDATE SATURDAY MORNING: I just read they have flown baby Harper to OK to the children's hospital. She has pneumonia and will need to be on a heart/lung bypass machine.

The faith that this family has is absolutely incredible and inspiring.

On the side of my blog is a button you can add to yours. Please add it and let's all PRAY WITHOUT CEASING for this family.

Love you all,
Dawn

UPDATE: Baby Harper is in critical condition. They are flying her to children's hospital in AR. Please pray for her and Scott and Kelly.

Kelly has had her baby ~~ but there have been complications I just read on her blog.

Please lift her and Harper up to the Father.

Get on up to 90 with your bad self =)

WOOHOO ~~~ Break out the party hats and balloons and put on the disco (not really, was never a fan, anyway . . . ) We are having a "she finally hit 90" party. Now yes granted I was suppose to be at 90 like six weeks ago and boy what a party that would've been, but that didn't happen and sometimes in life "that" just doesn't happen the way we want it to, so we deal with "this". Do ya dig me?!!

So why in the world has it taken me so long to get to the lovely 90 degrees and why is it such a big deal to me? A little perspective please.

• Okay so let me explain the first part of this question just like Amber taught me, because believe me I asked her the same thing. Apparently this type of surgery is actually harder to get range of motion back than a total knee. WHAT?!! Yep, she said I'm actually doing really good for this type of a surgery. YAY!!
• So onto the second part of this little equation, why it means so much to me. Well 90 is an indicator of how far we've come. When I started in PT two weeks past surgery, I was at 30 degrees. Seriously. And seriously bummed. God has done such a work in my heart over these last 60 degrees. I can't wait to see what He does with the other 40 (130 being the ultimate goal for this baby).

So on this auspicious occasion I thought I'd illustrate with a few pictures. Now if you are weak in the knees (hahahaha I crack me up) you may want to skip this next part, but if you are game I have a few pics (the first one being the worst to view). So if you dare . . . please proceed . . .

This is my knee 11 days outside of surgery. The DD initials are from my doctor and the grid, ummmm yeah don't know, but I'm assuming it aided in something-er-nuther. Anyway . . .

I know pretty gross, and man that is one long incision. Yes 35 staples in all. Those were fun coming out letmetellya!!

Now onto today. . .
Isn't she just lovely?!!

Oh and this one I just wanted to show off my kickin' boots hubs bought me last year, and the STUPENDOUS socks that come up to my knees and aide in boot wearing, while also keeping my leg warm ~~ leg warmers with feet =) Love them.




Okay and here it is again, a little different angle.
It's looking pretty good. The swelling is starting to go down more and more with these supplements and the OA diet. Which I am sticking to!! And I'd like to give a shout out to Jacquie, who was so encouraging in her comments when she found out I was trying these things, thanks Jacquie, I've thought of it often!! YAY!!! It isn't even that hard, so far. I'm actually enjoying trying different combinations of things. YUMMEE!!!!!




So how does one celebrate such an occasion? With a SHOUT OF PRAISE!!!!! I would love for ya'll to comment a shout-out to our AWESOME GOD!!!!! Tell me something the Lord has done for you that you want to thank Him for. He inhabits the praises of His people ya know!! So let's hear it for our Jesus!!!!!

Father,

The journey we have been on together is one that I will always be thankful for, and can't wait to see what You do with all that You've been teaching me. Use me Father for Your glory ~~ may I never forget the night in the hospital when it was just You, me, Dick praying in the hotel, and the pain. May I always remember how you sustained me and kept me. I will always sing Your praises here until I come to be with You in heaven, and then I'll be singing Your praises around Your throne casting myself at your feet. I love you Lord, I love You!!!! Amen

Making it Stick!!

I am so glad that BMoore and the gals and guy =) at LPM are doing the 2009 Scripture Memorization Team. If you haven't jumped on board you should prayerfully consider it. What a GREAT way to hide God's word in your heart.

So my verse last time was James 5:16 "Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." (NIV) That was written from memory ~~ so cool.

So the next two weeks my memory verse will be: Romans 12:11-12 "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." (NIV)

So why these verses? Well, I LOVE the practicality in God's Word. And for a while now He has been talking to me about prayer, hence the James 5:16 verse. These verses in Romans gives a great guideline to us in Scripture on staying close to the Lord. Be zealous, keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord, be excited about it. Have joy in hope, be patient when your afflicted and my personal fav, have faithfulness in prayer. You will not always get your answer the first time you prayer. Sometimes you have to pray and keep praying for the same situation. Does it mean God is not listening? Not at all!!!!! Child God sees and knows, and hears you. He loves you. There is a persistence that needs to be present in prayer.

I'm so thankful for these verses. This is where the rubber meets the road, if you will, in your walk with the Lord. Some prayers I pray for Dak come right off of these verses. I pray that God would keep his (Dak's) spiritual fervor serving the Lord. I've prayed this for a long time for Dak. It is so important that our kids are excited about the Lord but also consistent in following Him.

So if you haven't joined us and would like to, oh please do, we'd LOVE to have you. Just go here to get started.


I have PT today
(side note: wind chill currently -11 ~~ WHAT?? and the HIGH today is suppose to be +16 or something ridiculous like that ~~ no I shouldn't complain, Stephanie's HIGH in MN yesterday was -6 ~~ WHAT?? ~~ silly weather)
and hopefully have gained some degrees ~~ that was in my prayer time this morning. Just a couple of degrees be great. It seems like the swelling is down this morning ~~ GREAT news huh? Hopefully it will stay that way ~~ silly knee =)

Well, I love you all so much. Thanks for stopping by my corner of blog world. You are all so uplifting to me. I love your comments, and if you don't comment (you know who you are G =) you should, you really should =)

Have a Blessed day,

What does the Nightshade Family do for fun?

Well they don't show up on my plate anymore ~~ what's a girl to do?

Well as my personality would have it, when I am given a new challenge I face it head on. I do not like to be blindsided, so I generally take the bull by the horns. And of course, this time is no different, except that I am taking it a little slower with a lot more thought, since this looks like the way of it for a while.

Part of the OA diet I eluded to yesterday includes not eating from the nightshade family. So I knew a little about this family but not much. Where do they vaction? Do they enjoy Arby's? You know the normal stuff, anyway . . .

Given the fact they call themselves nightshade would give some indication that possibly it had something to do with darker colored veggies ~~ correct. (yep bright lightbulb right here)

Nightshades include:

• eggplant (which I don't really eat anyway accept for my Aunt Katheryn's Eggplant Parmesan ~~ GET-OUT-OF-TOWN GOOD ~~ no more of that, oh boo, its' really okay I have only eaten it once like years ago, so it's not like I'm cutting our a frequent flier or anything, anyway . . . ),
• tomatoes (WHAT????!!!!!???? No salsa or tomato sauce or tomato on my soy burger are you crazy? ~~ For my baby sis this would so not be a problem, but for me ~~ oh boo, anyway . . . )
• potatoes (now its just getting crazy ~~ no potatoes? No veggie spud from McAlister's? !! Oh double boo )
• peppers (not green, not red, not yellow, not hot, not mild NO PEPPERS ~~ enough said)

Those are the main ones. But then there were a few other things to add to this list that I can't have:

• Anything with white flour in it (that's okay I don't need it anyway right? ~~ wait a minute lots of things have white flour in them like my beloved pretzels ~~ oh triple boo!!!)
• No sugar ~~ (ahem, hello do they know who they are talking to? I enjoy my Splenda and my brown sugar and my organic cane sugar ~~ that's okay, I'm dealing right now, dealing ~~ bummer)
• Very little dairy (now your just showing off OA diet people =)

Seriously I'm just playing around, although all of these items are things I must eliminate or cut back on. I really don't mind it. I'm so ready for the swelling to be down and me and this knee to start kicking some serious OA tush!! You know what I mean? Kicking it serious girl style!!!

Thank you so much for your kind comments and e-mails and most of all for your prayers. God is faithful and He hears our heart's cries. He knows us and loves us ~~ HE IS SO GOOD!!!!!

You will notice a few changes on the sidebar to include a prayer button for KayLeigh. Yes that is a wedding band on her tiny arm. Please pray for this sweet little one and her family when she crosses your mind. I so know they would appreciate it. Or better yet go visit their site (just click on the pic and it will send you right on over there) and meet this sweet little one and get a button of your own to post on your blog and thus spreading the word that this little one needs some serious prayer. If this was my little one, I'd so want EVERYONE praying!!

You'll also notice I've added Twitter updates. Now I am a fairly new twitter so I'm still kind of working it out, but just today figured out how to get the updates on my blog. Look at my tech-savvy self go ~~ now that's funny!!! =)

Love to you,

Understanding the Knee-d . . .

Well I wanted to wait to do an update on the knee when I reached 90 degrees, but that has not happened yet. So thought I'd go ahead and update and then tell you the next step. Because definitely joining together in prayer will help.

Today was PT and I am still at 85 degrees. I was so hoping to be at 90 or even more today, but it seems things are not moving along quite like we'd hoped. I am having swelling in the knee joint itself and a new pain in the joint; bummer. But I am working through it and continuing PT at home and the PT gym as much as I can and am scheduled. The problem is the swelling may be starting to limit the flexion at this point. So we need to do some different things to help this baby along.

Amber, my PTist, said that we may need to call in a something-er-other swelling specialist. They have those? Apparently they do and she may be calling one to come see me if we can't get this swelling under control; bummer. When they come in they have all these fancy compression wraps and the like they can wrap me up in or custom make for me. Won't my knee think it's really special if it gets all tricked out? anyway . . .

To be honest, I'd just as soon get this swelling under control in less painful, more constructive ways. So after PT today I went to my fav health food store on the planet ~~ yes say it with me, MAMA JEAN'S. Hubby had said yesterday that I needed to call and talk to them about this, so I did and made arrangements to go into today after PT. The lady in there was SO helpful. They have a whole section on joint health alone, who knew?

Well apparently with knees like mine, with OA (osteo-arthritis), six knee surgeries and lots of pain, you have to take a little more drastic measures to get back on the road to recovery.

So she pointed me in the right direction towards an all-natural anti-inflammatory that I can take (I have lots of allergies to stuff) and then she showed me some rubs that might help and then she talked to me for a little bit about my diet. For people with OA there are special dietary guidelines that help a lot in the treatment of this. Like no sugar, no white flours and stay away from the nightshade family (potatoes, tomatoes, peppers etc.) ~~ she also gave me some great tips on what to eat, not just what not to eat. It was great.

So I'm going to be starting this special diet to see if we can get this swelling under control in my joint and maybe slow this OA puppy down. Goodness knows I don't need it spreading any more than it already has.

I feel so much better understanding how OA actually works against the body's natural defenses. She said that the swelling that is occurring is actually like puss in the body; yuck. The way the body reacts to puss is the same way it reacts to the swelling in the joint. Crazy huh? And having OA makes this a chronic problem. So it is very important to get and keep swelling out of the body. Yes, MaMa Jean worker was very helpful and knowledgeable.

So with my new found knowledge and peace from my Jesus we are moving forward. Yesterday was a hard day for me. My flesh really wanted me to have a pity party, but I'm not having it, OH NO I'M NOT!!!!! I am so thankful that God's mercies are new every morning and that His faithfulness is GREAT!!!!! This has been a much better day!!!

Thank you all for praying and for asking so often how I'm doing. I so didn't want this knee to take over the blog, because you know it would if I'd given it half the chance =)

Have a Blessed evening,

Oh the Happenings Around Here ~~ Dak Style ~~

So one of these days, when I'm tagged with one of those fun tags like tell me quirky things about yourself, I'll explain in more detail about my titles and comments etc., but for now just suffice it to say that I enjoy explainations!! anyway . . .

Oh do we have some big goings on around the Winslow House-hold. And what makes this even sweeter is that I have permission to tell. Oh I love it when that happens, because it is no fun on my conscience when I tell without permission . . . Shamey. But today is not that day, nope I have permission. Okay moving on . . . (do you ever wish I'd just get to the point?) anyway. . .

Before CHRISTmas Dak went to the movies with a "friend" to see Twilight. Well this friend just happened to be a girl, but he insisted they just went as "friends". Okay enough said, taking off the drill-sargent mom hat and putting on the sensible mom hat and moving on. So about two weeks after that, she the "friend", invited him to a CHRISTmas lunch and he went; as "friends". Well they didn't talk over break, so I thought maybe I'd over thought it and they were really friends so I didn't give it a lot more thought and went on with my busy hectic schedule of sitting in the recliner with ice on my knee and sipping peppermint tea ~~ I heart the holidays ~~ anyway. . .

The last day of break, late in the day like really evening, he came into the office where I was hanging out with ya'll and had this BIG smile on his face and announced he had his first official date. ~~ What? When did this happen? (Because I so didn't have to ask with whom ~~ I am so keen like that ~~) anyway . . . He said that he asked her on facebook and she said yes.

So where does one 16 year old boy without a liscense and no job take a girl on a date?
Here.

Yep he said that he told her he was poor, but he really wanted to take her out and wanted to know if she'd come over here on Saturday and he'd cook and they'd eat and watch some of the first season of Smallville that he'd gotten over CHRISTmas (thanks Grandma), and guess what? She said yes!! How cool is that?

So he got up on Saturday (early ~~ so cute) and made pizzas for them and for us ~~ thank you son for thinking of our grumbling bellies as well, and set about the task of getting everything ready. It was so sweet. She arrived and they were so cute. She looked darlin' in her pretty white coat with the furry hood and slide on ankle type boots. Adorable.

Well, they spent the day here and then went to the game that night. Our b-ball team played for first in our conference ~~ and won!! Go Blue Jays!!!

So after the game Carly ("the friend") ran Dak home and while they were on their way (like 2 minutes literally) he texted her to see if she'd go out with him (code for will you be my girlfriend for those of us kicking it old school =) We'll of course she was driving and couldn't get to her phone so her sister in the back seat grabbed it ~~ smooth son =) but Dak grabbed it out of her hand and clicked it shut. So when he got out he told her she might want to check her phone when she got home and then call him. So she called him, and he asked her and she said yes!!!!! So they are steady (do they even use that term anymore?).

When did this happen? When did my baby grow up? I am actually really happy for him and for Carly. She is a lovely girl. Now granted she is a senior and Dak is a sophmore, but neither one seem to mind. They just genuinely like each other. It is very sweet.

So this morning, I was sitting in my recliner nursing my ever swollen knee (more about that tomorrow) he came and sat down real close and got under my new fuzzy covers (more about that tomorrow too =) and it felt like he was seven again. We just sat under the covers for about 15 minutes discussing what it might be like at school today because facebook was so crazy last night. It was the sweetest thing, and I felt like, even if only for a moment, I had my little boy sitting on my lap . . . it was GREAT!! Love you son!!!

So big goings on I tell ya, and just a lot of fun to be witness too. I just love teenagers!!!

MM-R on this fine day!!

So this is week two of our journey through the library of books at our house I have yet to read. This is a really fun journey I'm on. And wow I really have a lot of partial and unread books . . . how does that happen? anyway . . .

This past week I read "Jesus on Leadership" by C. Gene Wilkes and here is my take on it:

This book was a challenging read in a week. There is so much information and so thought provoking.

On page 28 of this book I believe the author captures the heart of this book:

“A great leader is great because he lives - without compromise- the call to mission on his life. He is also great because he inspires others to carry out that mission with him. I believe Jesus was (and is) a great servant leader because he served his Father’s mission without compromise and has inspired many people over many centuries to carry it out. I can also say that I believe Jesus was the greatest leader because his mission was for all people for all time. Even great leaders in history only affect their space on the timeline and beyond. Jesus affected all creation for all time. His life, death, and resurrection served the greatest need of people for all time to have a personal relationship with the God who created us. “

This book really made me think about my own brand of leadership, do I lead as a servant like Jesus did? The world’s idea of leadership is much different than Jesus’ idea of leadership. The world’s idea has nothing to do with servanthood and every thing to do with self-driven ideas. It is a me-me-me attitude versus wanting to do the will of God by serving others. Now that is the real way to lead. This book really challenged me.

One of the examples Mr. Wilkes uses to illustrate servant leadership in Jesus’ life was the night of the Passover when Jesus washes the feet of the disciples, including Judas Iscariot. Jesus, knowing all that was about to happen, washed the feet of the one who would betray Him, and He did it in love and servanthood. What a beautiful picture of the true servant leader.

So I would like to leave you with the question that the author poses toward the end of the book:

“What kind of Christians would you produce if the only way they learned how to walk with the Lord was by following you around and mimicking your actions?”

Wow!! What a question!!! I’m telling you this book will really make you think. This is definitely a question I believe every believer should ask themselves.

Have a Beautiful day in the Lord,

The Tickle Spot . . . We found it~~

We have cuteness this weekend, and while I was in the office reading some of ya'll's blogs I heard some very sweet laughter coming from the living room and it was these two. So sit back and enjoy, and please excuse the tv in the background.

Have a Blessed evening,
Dawn

Friday Ramblings and Updates!!

Well, I can finally say it. And I've wanted to say this MORE than I've wanted to say I'm at 90 (which I'm not yet, but close verrrrrrry close!! anyway. . .) I'm back at CYC starting today. For those of you who do not know, CYC stands for Clever Youth for Christ, and it is a teen Bible study that we do in our local high school (where Dak attends). It is student led, but me and my friend Carrie, who teaches there brings it together and does whatever we can to bring the love of Jesus to our students, many of whom are hurting. It was soooooooo great to be back today. I love you CYC!!!!!

Beth Moore is doing a scripture memorization for the year, two verses a month. I first read about it on MiMi's blog, I checked it out at the LPM blog and decided to jump on that band wagon, because what is one thing that I can do in 2009 to get to know my God more? Know His Word!! So today I jumped over and saw that BMoore has a mini-tutorial about scripture memorization, and it is REALLY good. If you haven't seen it yet jump on over there from here. And check it out, and if you haven't committed to it yet, can I just encourage you to start memorizing scripture this year, it is never to late to hide God's Word in your heart.

Now just a couple of updates. I told you last week about my friend Cassie who is battling cancer, well she is in a real struggle. Please pray for her. From what I understand it has spread. She is fighting hard, please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. They are having a benefit for her on February 7th, please be in prayer for that is well. I'm excited to see what God will do!!!

My cousin and her husband and kids (Heather, Cliff, Devin and Kae) left for China yesterday to adopt their 13 year old son (MingZhi). Please pray for God's favor as they are over there and that He would just cover their every move this His love and faithfulness. H,C, D and K are just some of the best people I know. I love them so much. I will keep you update on their progress as well.

Just one more thing on the knee front: my knee is swelling on the bottom part, which is new. My PTist said yesterday that it is because I am on it too much. It is so hard when you are feeling better to not do stuff, ya know what I mean? So apparently my Target trip was too much, (among other things ~~ oh boo). So I have a new sock thing I have to wear and need to stay off of it more to keep the swelling down. She said it is swelling in the joint. Okay now that can't be good on a new finagled joint now can it? I need to be a better patient huh?

Okay so I said this was ramblings and updates, so one more rambling (since I'm done with the updates for now =) Dak is ordering his class ring today. Do ya'll remember your class ring? Do you still have it? We have ours somewhere, but I can't seem to find them. Hmmmmmmm I need to get on that. I am so excited for Dak. He chose a really pretty, handsome ring, but not typical. I love that about my son; he is not of the typical variety. He is a stand out ~~ OH YES HE IS!!!!!

Have a Blessed and fun Friday,

Waiting . . .

I was over at my good friend Rebecca Jo's yesterday (okay in the blog world, but you know, anyway . . .) she had a video by John Waller and I couldn't get this dude out of my head. So last night I was surfing on itunes and plugged him in and saw this song at the top. I played it and was just so moved, but wasn't sure why it moved me so much. Nothing jumped right out at me I just knew it did. So of course bought that baby and had listened to it once and still it moved me, but I didn't know the particular reason, other than there was one.

So today I had PT and appointments with mom so on my way to pick her up I put on that song and listened again and again was really moved . . . yeah didn't know why. So then after PT I was listening to it again and it hit me why it moved me so much.

While I'm Waiting

I'm waiting I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

So I bold, bigged-it-out and made it red~~

You see I am waiting on some things from the Lord right now. Yep I've got some things that I know He is calling me to and calling me from and moving me on and holding me back, do you know what I mean? I'm waiting. Well today as I was driving down the road He spoke to my heart and asked me when waiting started meaning stopping? What? You see often as I wait I do nothing. Since when is that the meaning to wait? It doesn't mean to stop, not in God's economy.

Let me try to illustrate. If you are waiting for a car to pass you may not be moving your feet forward, but you can still do things to get ahead, like talk on your phone or jog in place or talk to your friend or talk in general, or pray or listen, you can still accomplish something while you wait. Now that is worth the price of admission don't you think?

So while I'm waiting I will serve ~~ I will worship ~~ I will love ~~ I will pray ~~ I will choose to follow everyday my Jesus while I wait on Him.

___________________________________________________________________


I tried to put the video of this song on here, but youtube was NOT cooperating. It was a video from the movie Fireproof which I have not seen yet (yes I know ~~ shamey on me). So I'm gonna try again but if I don't get it up here and you'd like to see it please go here.

So What Constitutes Back?

Going to Target like a big girl all by myself ~~ YAY ~~ oh yeah and 90 degrees, which I haven't hit yet, and I found out yesterday that "back" will actually be 130 degrees, but a girl has to have goals and my current one in PT is 90 degrees.

I haven't written a lot about my knee lately, so a quick update goes something like this:

I'm at 80 degrees ~~ yes you heard that right!! The girl that started out 8 or so weeks ago at 30 degrees has gained 50 and sits at 80 ~~ WOOHOO!!! I am down to one crutch and working on getting off of that onto a cane and then from there look out. Going solo!! Can't wait!!!

My PT is going well, still a lot of pain, but when I am weak He is strong. So I am feeling rather strong during PT these days. I've rescheduled our Mayo appt. Minnesota in February sounded like being snowed in for days, waiting to happen, so we changed it to March 17th, yep good ole Saint Patty's day. I'll be wearing green in the cold lands . . . anyway . . .

Another random thing that constitutes "back" is me and MaMa Jean. MaMa Jean is the local health food store that I get lost in every time I go. Not because it is so big, but because they have things like local grown honey in a dispenser that is $2.something a pound and local grown micro-greens grown local for $2.98 a package. Can you say veggie sandwich for lunch? I love being able to get out and go do those little things like that that I wouldn't burden others with. Do you get me?

And yes to close I went to Target, walked around (1 crutch but no wheelchair cart thing) YAY and did just find. I'm getting ready for my neighbor to drop by for a chat or I'd take pics of the cool things I got, maybe after while, anyway . . .

Have a Blessed day,

This, That and The Other . . .

So what is the other anyway? Don't we have funny sayings? Anyway . . .

Today is just a little bit of random happenings before I head out the door (more on that in a minute).

First blogger will not center my pics, I do not know what's it's problem is today, but boo!!

Okay, anyway . . . Yesterday Dak was sick and needed to go to the doc, so I made him an appointment and off we went. His ear has been really hurting so you can't mess around with that. Well, he didn't have an ear infection, his ear was impacted because of a sinus infection. So she dug wax stuff out of his ear until it bled =( poor thing. It was gross and really hurt, but he is feeling better. He is on antibiotics for the infection and on the road to recovery ~~ YAY!! And yesterday was his last day of freedom before back to school today ~~ poor guy ~~ but at least he didn't miss school to go to the doc.

We went to Walmart while we was waiting for his medicine and I went to the scrapbook section and found the cutest scrapbook kits for $14.97, all stuff included. GREAT!!! So I got it and brought it home and got started while watching the BCS Tostitos Bowl ~~ Go Texas (another story for another time =) anyway . . .

This is what I found . . .

Cute eh?
And this is what I did with it.
So Sweet!!!!!


Oh yeah and this!!
This is Dak after getting my birdhouse put up on CHRISTmas eve.
And this is me and my baby sis hamming it up later that night.



And then Dak and I opening up our presents on CHRISTmas eve night after my fam left.
So fun!!!


Oh yeah the tree in the above pic didn't come with the album, it is my little add on. This wasn't even a Christmas book per say . . . but it worked beautiful!!!

Okay so about my heading out the door. I have PT today and guess what? I am driving myself!!! Get out!! I know!!!!!! I'm so happy for me to!!!!!!!

We have lots of exciting stuff and some serious stuff going on in our lives right now, but in all things I give God the glory!!! He knows right where I'm at; He sees me and knows me. So if you are in the middle of exciting or serious or somewhere in between give Him all the glory for This, That and the Other!!!

Love you ~~ Have a Blessed day,

Maiden Voyage of the Monday Morning Review ~~ (MM-R)

Well here I go on a new journey for 2009!! If you will recall I made a New Year's Resolution to read a book a week and post the review every Monday on this blog. The reason being I have so many books in my personal library that I have not read all the way through or not at all, and I really feel God speaking to me about stewardship and making the most of what He has provided for us. So instead of buying more books I want to read, I am reading the ones I already have before I venture out to purchase more.

Well this is quite an ambitious goal, 1 book a week, but I'm going to give it the old college try. Right now I seem to have a lot of time on my hands since my knee refuses to cooperate after big days of PT and/or exercise and home. When it swells and is stinky I am sitting. Prior to this resolution I was watching WAY TOO MUCH TV!! Boo Boo ~~ So I have turned that time into reading time and I finished the book to review today on Saturday. A day early !! WOO-HOO!!!

So without further ado . . . I give you MM-R!!!


Review of “here am I, Lord . . . Send somebody else!”
By Jill Briscoe


This is a great book for a new believer to read. It is clear and concise and helps to explain matters of faith.


It is written from Moses’ perspective and the fact that he wanted the Lord to send somebody else to do the job. He felt inadequate and ill-equipped to do such for the Lord. It is interesting because I have often felt this way as well. That what God was asking me to do couldn’t possibly be meant for me, because I just am inadequate. But in all our inadequacies God equips and that is a theme in this book. He equips me/us, so we don’t have to worry as long as we are trusting Him.


What I will attempt to do in these review posts is just to give a very brief overview of the book. And in doing so pick out a sentence or paragraph that I feel best describes the book. Because who better to describe it than the author’s own words.


So for this book, I felt like this section really captures the heart of the read. It is found on page 34 and goes like this:


“A healthy sense of identity comes from belonging to God through Christ and choosing to work for God’s purpose and plan, not yours. If you choose to obey God, you will likely encounter opposition and hardship, and you will certainly have to practice self-denial. It doesn’t mean you will always rise to the occasion either! In fact, Moses’ first grand attempt to make an impact for God led to disaster.”


Another thing I enjoyed about the book is the matter-of-fact tone that she uses throughout just like in the above passage. No sugar coating on this read, nope, right there in your business ~~ I love that!!


It did take me probably about three chapters to really get into the heart of the book (probably why I didn’t read it before ~~ oh me of little patience). But I am so glad for this resolution, because this book is a really good read.


So if you are a new believer or know a new believer, or just want a book to prepare you to talk with someone new to the faith, or not yet a believer, this is a good book to read. But may I suggest, if you are going to give this to a new believer, please read it first yourself. This is something I try to practice in my own life. I don’t like to give books I haven’t read myself to someone in case of things in there that might lead them astray, you know what I mean right?


Okay, so that is all for the first MM-R. I am so excited!! The next book I’m reading is “Jesus on Leadership” by Gene Wilkes. Now let me just say that I really want to do this every Monday which means I’ll need to be reading a book a week until I get all of these books read, but a book a week is quite an undertaking, so we will see how this proceeds, but it will be every Monday or every other, if I’m a slacker. But so far so good =)



PS If you are interested in more details of the book please let me know. One of the things I am doing as I read, is at the end of each chapter I am writing a very short synopsis (one or two sentences) of the chapter. So if this is a book you are interested in, but need a few more details, just contact me and we'll discuss some meat =)

Showing His Faithfulness!!

Don't you love the fact that God is ALWAYS God. No matter what. Even when I'm being this crazy human, He is God. When I'm been crazy and worrying and wondering how things will ever work out, He is God. When I have a bad attitude and am being a little stinker, He is still God.

I witnessed God at work today through my sweet husband. Don't you just love that? When God uses the ones closest to you and your a witness to it all . . . love that.

Today we went to visit my mom. She took a terrible fall this week on New Year's Eve. My baby sis and mom spent NYE in the emergency room. That is a bummer!! They were at the movies when my mom fell hard in the bathroom. She is okay. She hurt her neck again, so given her previous problems there we were most concerned about that, but the MRI came back okay and we are so thankful.

Well today I called and asked if she was up for some company for lunch, so I made my famous chicken strips (yes, btw they are famous ~~ at least around these parts =) and curly fries (mom's fav) and then pumpkin bread for dessert (I'm making myself hungry again). Anyway, we packed that up and off we went to Grandma/mom's house.

We had a lovely lunch and then after lunch my sweet hubs went over to my mom and knelt down in front of her and took her house slipper off and started looking at her ankles and giving her pointers on how best to strengthen them without risking a fall, things she could do sitting down. It was one of the sweetest moments I've witnessed between my mom and husband. I nearly cried!! I told him later it was the sweetest!!!!!

We are very concerned about mom. She has some important doctor appointments on Thursday. We love her so, it is hard to see her in pain and having trouble getting around, but this was such a fun day. It was a memory maker.

Thank you God for your faithfulness. For ALWAYS being God in my life. Thank you for loving us more than we can imagine and for giving of Yourself and bringing us salvation through the precious blood of Christ. You are amazing God, truly amazing. Amen

Hope you all have a lovely evening,

The Music is Back ~~ YAY!!

Good Saturday to all !! Hope you are having a Blessed day.

Yep the music is back. This playlist is different than some of the other ones I've posted in the past, got a little Southern Gospel flava in there. These songs are just great, and the message, Oh my stars ~~ Love it!!!

So enjoy a little music and ice tea or Super Size Sonic diet Cherry Limeade (thanks Mckmama for the strike through head's up =) because it is LIKE 65 DEGREES HERE TODAY IN JANUARY!! GET OUT OF TOWN ~~ I KNOW!!!

And guess what I did today - twice? Went for a walk outside in this nice weather!! Now let me just put your fears to rest before I start getting e-mails about taking it easy (you know I love you and your concern =) but I did have my crutch and yes mom I was wearing a sweatshirt =) !! It was so great!!! I just walked like I knew exactly how to do it like the rest of ya'll. Now granted it still looks a little messed up, but the point is I was out there a walkin' !! I am so doing my thang ya'll!! You would be so proud!!! So right now give yourselves a hug, because you are prayin' this girl right on back to health ~~ HALLELUJAH!!!!!

So I'm doin' some praising today and singing and lovin' on ya'll!!

Have a Blessed day,

Prayers Avail Much!!

James 5:16 The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

Happy New Year ALL!! I hope that you ushered in the New Year with hope and anticipation of the new beginning a new year brings.

I believe in the power of prayer to change things and I believe there is strength in numbers. We (my family and I) have a prayer request on our hearts and so wanted to share a bit of this with you, so you can also be praying for this sweet family.

We met this dear family several years ago when we started going to a little country church. We had moved and it was to far to travel to the church we now attend and really felt God leading us to Ponce. So we started going to church there and met some really amazing people. One of the families we met were Ron and Kathy and their daughter Cassie. Ron is a very gifted musician and Kathy has the sweetest spirit of anyone I'd ever met. Cassie was a teenager at the time and one of the kindest teenagers ever to walk around and be a teen.

A year ago October we received word that Cassie had been having a lot of pain in her hip and a lot of trouble walking for about a year. The doc's couldn't figure out what was wrong, so in Oct '07 they did a MRI at Cassie's insistence, and found a tumor. It was cancer. I believe this is a form of bone cancer, although I'm not 100% on that. She has been valiantly fighting this cancer for over a year now. The doc's in Springfield told her about a month ago there was nothing more they could do here and sent her to MD Andersen in Houston. They have started an aggressive form of chemo that would require her to stay in Houston for about 2 -3 months. Well we received word over the weekend that they were on their way back home. The treatment was not working and MD Andersen told her there was nothing more they could do either. So she will be going through massive amounts of chemo back here in MO from what we understand. This young lady is just 24 years old.

I beseech you brethren, (and ladies) on behalf of this young one to pray. Dick came into the office last night and asked me to come with him. We went into our room and he said we needed to pray for Cassie. He said if this was one of ours we'd want the whole country praying. I thought of you all. Prayer changes things. Please pray for this young one. She is one of the dearest girls I know, and her family is just the hardest working and most God loving people you will meet. They have such a heart for the Lord.

Thank you for lifting this sweet family to the Lord. I will keep you updated on her progress.

Blessings and love to you,