Sometimes when I'm reading a book in the bible I like to put myself there w/ the people. I think it helps me sometimes to understand what's going on. It was no different as I was reading Esther!! I've read the book many times, I'm sure even talked to you about it...many times, but this time it was different. As I'm picturing myself there watching this all unfold, Mordacai finds out Hamans evil plot to have all Jews killed, which he & Esther are one of, he, of course is beside himself, he's torn his clothes, put on sackcloth & ashes, & is now wailing "loudly & bitterly" in the streets. So anyway Esther finds out what's going on, Mordacai says go talk to the King, she says she can't & he says these words: "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this!!" Powerful to me everytime I read it, but this time even more so. I told you about my story w/ Gods silence last week sometime, well when I first started hearing Him clearly it was as I was reading this book during VBS week!!! Now I'm not in a "royal position" but God is asking me to do something..to serve Him. I, of course ignored Him, but as I did He just kept saying, "and who knows that I haven't called YOU for such a time as this!!! Just b/c I was quiet doesn't mean I wasn't working on you. You had to experience what you did so you could be here right now!!" Oh my gosh, excitement is bubbling in me. We had a few more conversations & I did what Esther did, I called my girls!!! She told Mordacai she'd have hers fast w/ her, I asked mine to pray w/ me!! Esther answered the call that was given to her & I will do the same!!! I've talked to Him a couple times about how this would all work out & guess how He answered? Yep, through His word!!! I'm now reading in Romans & it's Pauls writing, but of course, I'm there listening too & he says: Romans 1:5- Through him we received grace... Through Him I have received grace!!! So on my own this will never work out, but through Gods grace & His strength it's going to be just fine!!! So keep listening for Him. If you think it's been quiet to long, maybe you've been in "the rabbit hole" (as one of my girls has said) to long & it's time to come out & hear, listen, & obey. Whatever God has planned for you, in His timing it's going to be good!!!!

My anniversary is tomorrow...28 years!! WOW!! How did that happen? I'm sitting here thinking of these 2 young kids (he was 20 & I was 19..young!!) and we thought we had it all together. We thought we knew everything, knew how it all went & was supposed to be!!! Boy were we wrong. These past 28 years have brought many joys (4 to be exact) some disappointments along the road, & numerous times of me telling Monte that I could no longer be friends with him, I'm pretty sure that happened earlier this week, if I really think about it. But God laid His foundation 28 years ago in this marriage & even though the storms have rocked it & at times put a crack in it, we have held tight to the One who brought us together & to each other. One of the things I've thought about for my kids is that they would know their dad & I loved each other. That the legacy we leave behind would be a legacy of love!! That they would see our faith & know there is no other way. A friend of mine asked me a few years ago, at our 25th I think, "how do you do it?? I've been married 10 & I feel like I'm sinking sometimes." I've felt that way many times, but the only way is through prayer. Lots & lots of it!!" Lol. So this text would just be a huge shout out to God for bringing us together, blessing us enormously, & sustaining us always!!! And thanks Mon for 28 years & here's to 28 more & more & more!!! Phil 1:3&4- I thank my God everytime I remember you. In all my prayers...I always pray w/ joy.

Well this was a bit of a hard morning for me. Lambeau & Ringo are getting "fixed". Which is a good thing, but the process leading up to it was traumatizing for all 3 of us lol. They were very excited to be going for a ride, although, I feel like if Lambeau could talk he would've said, "why are you taking us this early for a ride into town?" So we get to the humane society & they are still relatively excited, other dogs, cats, Ringo is thinking, "WOW!! This is awesome!!" Then they call for Lambeau. Luckily, a friend of Matts was there getting his cat fixed & so he held onto Ringo for me. Now they have this travel cage they want me to put him in. Have you ever tried to squeeze a polar bear into a hamster cage?? No! Well next time I'll call you...no fun--for him or me. I finally get him in & he turns around as the lady is putting a lock on his cage, & puts his paw up to me. Oh the guilt I'm feeling for making him go in there. I tell him I'm sorry & promise him he's going to be fine & I'll see him tomorrow. He gives a little whine & puts his head down. I take Ringo from Chase, Matts friend, & he's still pretty good. A new cat has come into the circle & he's prancing around. He just knows he's going to be able to chase him up the tree in the yard. They call his name. Here we go. She opens the travel cage door & he looks at me like, "yeah it's nice but that cat is waiting on me!" I said, "come on my precious boy-you have to get in there." You all know how I feel about that dog...I'm stupid when it comes to him!!! So he goes in, with quite a bit of coaxing & turns around & just looks at me. He's shocked that I'm doing this to him & he starts, not just whining but crying!!!! Guilt is washing over me & I feel terrible!! I know this is good for them both & it needs to be done, but I feel awful. I whisper to them both that I have prayed for them & they're going to be fine. I know the people waiting are looking at me like I'm nuts. I've declared my love for them both & told them maybe they'll even meet some new friends. The lady standing by her car, waiting her turn is looking at me w/ confusion & shaking her head. I tried to explain that I love them like my kids & if she was around them enough she would see that they even have human tendacys. She obviously didn't believe me & I think she even pulled her phone out to call for some "help" for me!! I left & went to McDs to drown my guilt & sorrow in a large cup of coffee & wait for work to start. So I know your probably thinking, "okay...& the point!" Well sometimes there doesn't seem to be a point & then God gives this verse to me...Isaiah 43:2-"when you pass through the waters I will be w/ you & when you walk through the rivers they will not overflow you...." And yes, Missi, even your dogs!!! "Thank you Father for knowing the things & people I love & always taking care of them!!" He gives me His peace, even when it's my sweet Lambeau & precious Ringo!!! Hope you all have a wonderful Wednesday!!

We were studying about Martha in bible study last nite. You know how Jesus was at her house & she was busy working, trying to make things perfect & get everything done & her sister was sitting, listening to all that He was saying. She was taking it all in. Well Martha was getting upset & she finally said something to Jesus & here's what He said: Luke 10:41&42- "Martha, Martha," The Lord answered, "you are worried & upset about many things, but few things are needed--or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, & it will not be taken away from her." It kinda reminded me of Snoop (my 1st lab) which then reminded me of me, but Snoop, when we 1st brought him home, used to bring me "presents" all the time. Dead deer carcass, other peoples shoe (I say shoe-as in 1 b/c I never got a pair) buckets, blankets & towels. It got to where the neighbors would call & say, "did Snoop happen to take my beach blanket off the line? I can't find it." I'd go on the front porch & find the pile of "gifts" by the door. The vet said he was trying to please me--show that he was glad to be where he was. So I said, "okay Snoop, you don't have to bring all these things to me. You are my favorite dog ever & I am so glad your here!!!" I like to think it was my talk w/him that stopped the gift giving, Monte seems to think he just grew out of it. Either way, he became comfortable w/ his spot in the house & the gifts stopped. So all that to this....I can be like Martha & Snoop. I'm trying to "do" all this stuff for God or "bring" Him all these gifts, "look God!! Look what I have for you? Isn't it nice? Look what I did? Don't you love it?" Yes, of course He does. He wants us to serve Him, but He doesn't want that to be all we do. He wants to spend time w/us!! He wants us "to be still" (remember that verse?) to be like Mary & just take Him in, listen to His teaching, get our fill of Him & not what we do for Him or bring to Him. So think about that this morning...are you more like Martha & so busy working & trying to get it all done, that even though what your doing is for Him, your missing out on Him? Or are you like Mary & sitting w/ Him, taking your time w/ Him, listening to Him!!! Let's do our best to make sure we're being like Mary & taking time to be w/ Jesus & get our true identity in Him & not just in what we do!!! Because losing ourselves in Him & then finding who we are in Him....that is the best way to be always!!!

I've kind of gone back & forth on what to write. I feel like I've had a couple things going on that would, hopefully, give you encouragement. But everytime I go to say something the thing that seems to be the strongest on my mind is Peace!! I went to the movies last night & saw The Shack, wonderful movie!! I read the book years ago & it also was wonderful & so the movie followed course. I cried & cried, just about from the moment it started. I guess because I kinda knew what was coming, but when it was over I just felt peace. I thanked God all the way home, into the night, & this morning for that peace. The verses that kept coming to my mind were John 14:26&27- But the Councellor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things & will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave w/ you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled & do not be afraid. Aren't those such wonderful verses to have in your mind!? We are never ever alone. God has given us the Holy Spirit to remind us of the things He teaches us, of the things He's said. I'm glad He doesn't give like the world gives...superficial & only looking out for it's self. God gives so that we have strength, courage, that we feel His love, & that we have His peace. There are going to be things that come up in our lives that we're not going to understand or that there isn't any good answer for, but we don't have to be stuck in confusion. We don't have to let those things consume us or define us. What we need to do is keep going to God, let Him be what comforts us & consumes us. As we do that He just covers us. His love is mighty & He gives us His peace, & those are the things we need. Those are the things that are going to get us to the place God wants us to be. Not stuck in despair, but going forth w/ encouragement. So if your feeling like a hot mess, remember God has not left you alone. He's given us His Holy Spirit to remind us to not be afraid. I hope that this gives you the peace that it has truly given me & you will go forth today filled w/ the Holy Spirit & ready to do what God has asked!!!

In Sunday school we were talking about how important the bible is. I was supposed to be the teacher but I'm telling you the girls taught me way more than I ever did them!! They're teenagers, 17, juniors in high school. I've had them for many many years in youth group, well 1 of them I'm raising lol. But you know how it is w/ that age. They may know stuff but you wonder how much is head knowledge & how much is heart. So one of the questions is: "what's your favorite bible story & why?" I thought I'm not telling them mine b/c they'll just be like, "oh yeah, mine too." Well 1 of the girls says, "I like the book of Job. My favorite part is in Chp 39 where it talks about all God does for the horse & I know if He does that for the horse He's going to do way more for me!" Oh Wow!!! Okay, I was not expecting that. The other 1 liked the book of Ruth. The way she followed & trusted & waited. She said, "but my favorite verse is Romans 12:12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. I like that. I like to think about that." Wow, wow, wow. That's all my mind kept saying. I honestly thought I was going to be met w/just your typical teen answers or lack there of, but no!! These girls know God. They don't just know "of" Him--they know Him!! With their hearts. They may not always understand, which at 47 do I always understand His answers or His leading? No. But they know His works are good & His plans for them are great. I walked out of Sunday school, reading that chapter in Job & looking at it the way she did. Thinking of the book Ruth again & thanking Him for the example that not only she was but Naomi too. God is so amazing the way He works & the way He teaches. I pray that we can all take time to get away & read His word & apply it to where we are right now in our lives. That's why we have His word...so He can speak to us. Let's take time & really listen & then as we hear...obey!! Psalm 119:9&10- How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.

2Samuel 6:14 & 23- David was dancing before The Lord w/all his might. "I will become even more undignified than this, & I will be humiliated in my own eyes....this is one of my favorite stories. David was excited!! He was bringing up the ark of God & he was rejoicing!! He didn't care who was around or watching he was filled w/ Gods joy & he didn't care who knew or who saw him. Of course when his wife found out she scolded him for how he acted & that's when he said, "I can get EVEN MORE undignified!! What happened there...that was nothing!" He loved The Lord & he was going to celebrate & he did!! Well as I'm waiting for my mom to get out of surgery, there were quite a few different people also waiting. Well this one lady was very animated in a lot of the things she talked about & did. But all the sudden the news came on & she stops what she's doing & is listening intently to the story. Well she got so excited b/c of one of the stories. She was praising God--with hands raised!! She was thanking Him for answering her prayer for this situation. Thanking Him for watching over & taking care of the people involved. She probably told me 4 or 5 times how she was praying for this boy. It was starting to get to the point that others were looking at her--she didn't care. She kept saying, "thank you thank you thank you!!! You are good!! You are so good!!!" As I'm watching & listening to her I thought, "well she's a little over the top." Then, of course, God reminds me of this story. I sat there for a few minutes just thinking about David, thinking about this woman that I will never see again & thinking, "we should all become undignified for God." When our prayers are answered--why not say, "YYEEESSS!!!! Thank You Father!!!" Why not dance before The Lord, uninhibited. Okay maybe we don't do it right there in the hospital waiting room, especially if your a little funny about that kind of thing, but why not, atleast, be thankful right there--where people might see. God is good--so good!! He answers prayers & He takes such good care of us. He is "a good good Father. That's who He is & we are loved by Him--that's who we are!!" Let's celebrate Him! Let's become undignified & tell of His great works & love!! I'm thankful for that woman & her love for the Lord & that she didn't care to share it & let those around her know of Him. I think....I know we'll never ever be sorry we shared that great news!!

I'm sitting here this morning trying to drink my coffee & wake up & there is this fly that will not leave me alone!! Now this isn't any ordinary fly--it's HUGE!! I'd say the size of a baby chick!!! Okay, maybe I'm being a bit dramatic, but it's not like a small fly that bugs you when your trying to have a picnic outside in the summer. At first I thought it was a wasp, but it landed & stared at me & I realized it was just a fly!!! So I'm looking for something to kill it with & I'm thinking, "why did God make him? He's annoying & he's getting on my nerves!!" I was so afraid he was going to land in my coffee and that would have been the worst!! Wasting a perfectly good cup of coffee over this dumb fly!!! So as I'm asking God what the purpose of this fly was, the chorus, "You make everything glorious, You make everything glorious, & I am Yours..." kept playing in my head. And I thought, "really?? It's a fly & it almost got in my coffee!!" So I looked up the verse & here is what it says, Ecc 3:11- "He has made everything beautiful in it's time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end." Wow, okay so maybe it's a little more than this fly bothering me, it's about God reminding me of who He is, all He's done & continues to do, & most importantly how He feels about me!! He loves me, created me to do good works, & I am His!!! My heart has been in a weird place for a little while, nothing concerning just trying to figure things out, & I've cried out & cried out & don't you know God used this annoying fly to remind me of...Him!!!! To quiet my loud thoughts & calm my aching heart. To bring back to me the peace I've been missing, longing for. He's so good the way He takes care of us!! And for some reason I'm now thankful for this fly--again, God changing my thoughts!! So this morning if you've got something annoying bugging you remember this verse, keep it close & maybe look at what's going on & really see all that God is doing around you & most importantly in you!!!!! Oh & the fly--well I'm pretty sure when I picked the swatter up, he went somewhere else!! So no flies were harmed in the writing of this devotion!! Lol

Yesterday a friend of mine said, "I'm going to tell you something b/c I need you to pray." So of course I said yes & I knew that also meant don't ask to many questions b/c they couldn't really say. Which is fine, I just really need their name & I'll pray. They were saying that their friend was going through a hard time & in that time had made some choices that weren't necessarily the best & definitely weren't God lead. So anyway I said yes I would be praying. Well I couldn't get them off my mind. I kept thinking how often I've made almost the same mistake. I've been caught up in peer pressure or my own selfishness & have made not so good decisions. I'm sure we all have been in similar situations. As I was praying I thought, "what would I say to encourage them?" God said, "my grace is enough!" What!? So I went to 2Cor 12:9 & this is what it says, "But he said to me, ' My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'" Yes, we mess up & we (as my good friend says) are knuckleheads at best, but we don't have to stay there. God offers His love, His forgiveness, & His strength. We can know that on our own things are bad & can get worse, but w/ God all things are possible & He will provide exactly what we need. So that's some of what I would say to my friends friend & as I was praying that God would let them know that, I had to just thank Him, b/c I most certainly needed that reminder too. I was thankful to go to His word & at the very end of the chapter, v.10, read these words, "For when I am weak, then I am strong!!" Remember His word always & when mistakes are made don't beat yourself up, go to God, go to His word & let that be what helps & encourages you. His grace is always enough for each of us & He offers it so freely!!!

We were talking in Sunday school about how important it is to look at ourselves the way God looks at us. I never really thought about how important that is. He created us in His image. He loves us, cares about us, & he died for us, then He rose again...for us!! I know it's easy to get caught up w/ how others think or w/ the images we constantly see on tv or magazines, they tell us we aren't good enough. But we've got to remember we have control over it--we can keep things in perspective w/ Gods help. So let's know that God created each of us w/ potential & He will use us if we let Him--if we give our lives to Him. He loves us as we are, not for what we think we should be. So let's go forth w/Gods mindset being what pushes us forth!!! Psalm 139:13&14- For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mothers womb. I praise you because I am fearfully & wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

Trevor, Britney, & Kynlee came over yesterday & of course Monte & I stop what we're doing & we do whatever Kynlee wants to do. She jumped on the trampoline, rode her quad, & played sword fighting w/ all the sticks in the yard. Ringo joined in the sword fight. The one, though, who enjoys the visits the most is Lambeau. He loves when Trev comes over, because, even though he's a dog, he loves Trev!! He usually knows they're coming long before we see him, b/c he hears his jeep. He gets here & he jumps all over him. He comes inside & Lambeau does all he can to sit on his lap. If you've ever seen Lambeau you know he's not a lap dog, he weighs about 120pnds. Trevor talks to him, pets him, brushes him, gives him extra treats & spends as much time w/ him as he can. Lambeau is happy. Or atleast it seems that, for a dog he is. After everybody was gone & the ones that live here were in bed I went to make sure Lambeau was not tangled up & was ready for bed himself, yes I know I'm weird--I treat these dogs like they're humans, anyway, he was on the porch, laying on a blanket. He seemed very content. When I opened the door he raised his head to look at me & I said, "are you happy? You like when your person comes & sees you!" He layed his head back down & I never heard another thing from him. Which is a miracle b/c I promise you--he is nocturnal & barks at every little thing, especially at nite. So anyway I'm thinking about how we should be like Lambeau w/ Trevor. In John 10:27 it says, "My sheep hear my voice, & I know them & they follow me." Jesus calls to us-we hear Him & we should be excited, we should follow Him. He loves us & has good plans for us & that should make us content & satisfied. We chase & run after things that mean nothing, that sometimes are even no good for us. We need to be listening for our Saviors voice & then obeying what He's saying. We need to spend time w/ Him & be content in & w/ that time. Let's try & do that today. Let's start looking forward to time w/ our good shepherd, hearing His voice & getting excited about what He says!! And let that just flow through out the rest of our day. Following after Jesus is way better than anything we could follow after on our own. He'll never lead us astray, never contradict what He says, & His promises are true!! What great hope that should give us today!!

I've been having trouble sleeping lately, well since about November, it stinks!!! Part of the problem is temperature. I go to bed fine, pajamas, blanket, sometimes socks on-depending how cold it is or I am. I wake up....beyond hot!! I'm ripping blankets off, socks off, whatever I can get off. Well then it's hard to get back to sleep for me. So you know how it can be when your tired, it effects everything else in your life. Well it has mine anyway, the only thing I think of is sleep, I might be a little dramatic but you get the idea. I get up in the morning get done what I need too & sleep till I have to get ready for work. I come home from work & think, "maybe I can nap for half an hour." I feel grouchy & hateful. I don't like it, it's not who I want to be. Then I was talking to somebody about it & I know their intentions were good but they said, "oh your just getting started!! This could go on FOR YEARS!!!" WHAAAAT!!!!! I can't do this for years!!! Well this morning when I woke up, for the 2nd time, it was b/c I was freezing!! Are you kidding me!? The 1st time I'm sweating like a politician in church & the next time I couldn't get enough blankets on--frustrating. Well it brought this verse to my mind: Revelation 3:16- So, b/c you are lukewarm--neither hot nor cold--I am about to spit you out of my mouth. I thought, "well, yes Lord, I am either hot or cold--doesn't seem like there's much in between." But that's not what He's talking about--I know that & I'm gonna be honest w/ you all....spiritually---I feel like maybe God would spit me out. I don't want that--I want to be on fire for Him. I want my daily routine to get back to it's normal routine. I don't want to be tired anymore. I know a lot of this will pass. I know that God sees way beyond my upfront self. He knows the desires of my heart & sees what's going on in my mind, He will do in me what needs to be done to give me a revival of the heart & a renewing of the mind. I know His work is being done even as I write this. So I guess I want to encourage each of you, that if you've been feeling "lukewarm" don't give up. Don't just think, "I'm going to be spit out & that's it!" It's not it. Go to God, tell Him what's going on. Let Him do the healing in you, before we all know it, He's going to set a Holy fire in us all that cannot be contained & how wonderfully great that will be, for Him & us!!!

Isaiah 58:9- Then you will call, & The Lord will answer; you will cry for help, & he will say; "Here am I..." I came across this verse last night & I was just so excited. I read it over & over & over again. For me, it's so encouraging--when I call out God says, "I'm right here!" He here's me!! We all want to be heard, we want to know that what we say is important & that somebody is listening. Well God couldn't be any clearer....He says, "Here am I!" I hope this gives you encouragement also. I hope that you'll continue to go to Him & talk to to Him, pray to Him & seek His answers!! He's available, He's listening. His answers are always for our good. There is hope in Him always!!! Don't give up & don't stop calling to Him. That would be my encouragement to us all today. I pray you find your hope in & through His word!!

Isaiah 55:1- Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters....I started thinking about this verse when I woke up & my throat was so dry & all I wanted was water. As soon as the water hit I was like, "aahhh--better!! Much better!" Thats kind of how it is for us when we're not soaking ourselves in God!! When we're ignoring our quiet time w/ Him, it will make us dry & parched. It will make us want something-anything to take that dryness away, to quench us. I love coffee but when I get so thirsty coffee doesn't help, I need just water. That's how we are spiritually, we're dry, so we pour all this stuff in us trying to take it away & nothing is going to work but just getting w/ God & letting Him pour Himself in us--on us. So if spiritual dryness is something your dealing w/ right now, do the only thing that's going to make you thirst no more...go to Him & let Him just pour it out on you like rain!! I promise you will feel so much better, you'll be saying, "aaahh! Much-much better!!"

I am sick...again!!! I hate it. I'm sure you know the feelings, your tired & just don't feel like yourself. My family really doesn't like it when I'm sick, for obvious reasons, but 1 of the main reasons is, I don't feel like joking around. Trying to watch tv & Matt insists on singing the theme song, most of the time I'm singing along w/ him, but my head hurts & I don't want to sing. I don't even remember what Natalie said, but the response I gave her wasn't what she thought & so then I got a, "WOOOW!" Sorry I'm sick. I take a shower, make some tea, grab a blanket & sit on the couch. As I'm sitting there w/ my tea it made me think of my grandma (tichawa-she lived in Chicago)she was a HUUUGE tea drinker. It made me think of both of my grandmas really. When I was in labor w/ Jake & waiting for Monte to pick me up, I was at my Gma McGhie's, she lived in town, well as my contractions are coming & I'm getting anxious she says, "you want me to make you some tea?" So tea has always been kind of comforting & soothing for me. When I was drinking it last night it just brought a little bit of peace to me. Good memories came flooding back & I thought, "thank you Father for putting those 2 ladies in my life," they were different in many ways, but the thing that made them exactly the same was love. They both loved w/ all they had & they had very big hearts!! They were welcoming & hospitable. And I thought, I hope as I start having grand kids that they will think those things of me. That beyond anything they know about me, they will know & remember my love was strong. It's important that we show & share that love with all those around us, even if we're sick & don't necessarily feel like it, our love needs to flow. So let's all do our best to make sure our love faucet is on high--what a difference we might make to just 1 person & that's really all we need to do--is reach just 1 person!! God will always do the rest & more seeds will be planted, & love will be shown. Just let it start w/ you....& maybe some tea ;-)) 1John 3:11...We should love one another. 1John 3:16- This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers & sisters.

Psalm 61:3- For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe....what a great reminder that God is our ultimate safe place. Through any kind of storm He remains steady. No matter what might be going on in our lives, He remains constant. This world changes constantly, & sometimes that's okay, but sometimes it's just not. It's scary, confusing, & can make us tired & weary, but my prayer for each of us is that we would take comfort in our Strong Tower. We would go to God & let Him restore us & remind us of our hope in Him. Hope isn't found here, in this world, but it sure is found in our God!!! So remember this verse as you go through out your day & always take your refuge in Him!!!

"You are loved by God from before time began." I'm not sure where I came across that little quote but I wrote it down in my journal & just came across it again. I thought it was worth sharing, b/c I don't know about you...but I forget that sometimes. My mind goes so fast & of course satan loves to throw up all my mistakes, past & present, & I start to think, "I'm not very lovable or even like able." But my God is so good & so faithful & He certainly doesn't want me to think that way. Yes, He wants me aware of what I'm doing, doesn't want me to sin, but even when I do, He offers His forgiveness & He throws those sins in the sea of forgetfulness. He doesn't bring them back up to me, in fact this is what He says in 2Cor 12:9- He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness," He knows my weak spots & He gives me His strength to get me through!!! I'm thankful for that!!! I'm thankful for Him!! I pray that in your weakness you would know this too & take comfort in His word & in Him. That we would all know that Gods standard & viewpoint about us is the most important viewpoint & standard there is!! So as you go through out your day today remember Gods great truths about you: you are loved--you are forgiven--you are chosen/hand picked by God!! I pray these truths keep your eyes fixed on Him & your head held high!! Matthew 25:34- Then the King will say to those on his right, "Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepare for you since the creation of the world."

I just wanted to give you all some encouragement this morning. Maybe your good right now, which is wonderful, but these are just a couple verses to keep in your head & heart for those moments when things seem out of control. I think we all have those times when we're not sure how things are going to turn out & we get nervous or scared. We've got to remember that even when things seem out of our control, they're never EVER out of Gods control. He tells us exactly what we need to do during those anxious times. What great hope & comfort He gives to us!!! Praying your able to recall His word & do exactly what it says--give it to Him!! Hope your Monday is a good one. 1Peter 5:7- Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Psalm 55:16&22- As for me, I call to God, .& The Lord saves me. Cast your cares on The Lord & he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

One of my favorites books is Esther. I love everything about it, all the people in it, how God (of course) worked everything out. I think my favorite verse from this book is Esther 4:14b- "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this." God called Esther-she answered. She had some help along the way, someone encouraging her, reminding her of the work God was doing through her. It always makes me think, "what has God called me for?" He's called me for a lot of things, I have taught Sunday school & still help when I'm needed, worked w/ youth. He's called me to play in the praise band--love love love!!! But He's also called me to be like Him!! He's called me to show love, even to the unlovable. To be kind, even when there's no kindness in return. To be His light in this dark world, to point people always in the direction of Him. I'm thankful for this calling. I'm thankful that I can look at that verse in Esthet & say, "yes! I have come to this place/position for this such time!" He's called each of us, by name, for His purpose. He will equip us to do the work & we just need to listen to His voice & obey what He's saying. Not always the easiest, but He is w/ us...always...to the very end. So that even through the hard days/times we can still, through His grace, keep going. So let's make sure as we're going through our busy day, that we show Jesus to each person that we come in touch with. When we act or look or speak like Him, it makes an impact or plants a seed in the person we are with & I always think that God is just smiling & thinking, "yep, that's my kid--they look & act just like me!!!" What a wonderful thought as we go through out our day :-)) that we look like our Heavenly Father & that pleases Him!!! Couple verses to help remind you of Gods involvement through out your day... Phil 1:6- ...that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Heb 13:20a & 21- Now may the God of peace...equip you w/ everything good for doing his will, & may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever & ever amen.

Psalm 118:24- This is the day The Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it....just a simple verse w/ a powerful message. God has given us this day, let's honor Him through out it!!! Happy Friday everyone :-))

I was talking w/ a friend last nite. She had some stuff going on in her family & couldn't talk about anything till yesterday. She was asking for prayer. Of course, I will be praying for her family--in agreement w/ her. We started talking about Gods goodness, about how He always takes care of us, & about prayer. As we were talking this verse came to my mind; 1Thess 5:17- pray w/ out ceasing. That's what we need to do..pray always, pray continually, don't stop praying. Well what does that mean? Because we're not just always going to be able to pray & do nothing else. That would be great if that's all we had to do--but that's not reality. So to pray w/ out ceasing means to always be in awareness of God. To have the attitude of God being present w/ us at all times. To know that every situation, He is there & in control!! That to me is so very reassuring & hopeful. We've all got something that weighs on our hearts & minds, we bring it to God & pray & then we stay in the mind-set (praying w/ out ceasing) that Hes got this!! The outcome is going to be for our good & His glory. I love that--I love that, that kind of knowledge is God knowledge--trusting in Him!! So let's make sure we are following Gods word & doing just what it says..."praying continually" I know we'll be so glad we did!!!

1John 4:16- And we know & rely on the love God has for us...A lot of things or even people aren't very reliable. They might not mean to be, but things happen & we end up feeling alone or left out, or even like we don't matter. But this verse takes on a whole new meaning when talking about relying on God. We can absolutely, w/ out a doubt, rely on His love for us!! If He says He's w/ us...He is!! Whatever it might be He says, we can always know that He will do exactly what He says He's going to do!!! So even though people can prove unreliable, God never is!! And it is always possible to know Him in deeper ways than what our human relationships give to us. We learn to rely on His love to stabilize the places we fall short, & we trust in the fact that God is doing new & wonderful things in us always!! Gods love is unfailing despite what we do or don't do--and we can take this verse, keep it close, & know...His love is completely reliable!!!

It's Valentines Day--a day all about love!! Declaring it, sharing it, letting that certain person know that they are on your mind & in your heart. It can be mushy-gushy-& sometimes you may think, "oh geesh...give me a break!!" It's not that I don't like the day, I just think..sometimes...it can be a bit much. I want to know all the time..everyday...that I make Montes heart skip a beat. He's pretty good at letting me know that he likes me, but of course, he's a boy & so sometimes he says something or does something & I'm just like, "Realllly!!??" It passes & things are fine--but there are moments!! But you know w/ God there is never those moments!! His love is everyday--all day!! He tells us over & over how much He loves us. How He longs for us--desires our time. To talk or just to rest & renew ourselves in Him!! He let's us know we are beautiful--wonderfully created!! These are things that He tells us everyday!! He doesn't wait for a certain day, He let's us know always & I know I'm so glad He does!! So I thought Id pass on a few verses that remind us of His love & these are words that we can carry long past Valentines Day, we can take them w/ us always!!! Love you all & pray your day is a good one & always filled w/ love!! Song of Solomon 4:7- You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you. Romans 5:8- But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Eph 2:4&5- But b/c of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive w/Christ... 1John 3:1- How great is the love the Father has lavished on us that we should be called children of God...

Isn't it comforting to know all the different names of God? It so is for me, I know I've told you that before, but I guess I just can't say it enough!!! Just some of them....(I know--AGAIN!? Yes, again) our provider, God is w/ us, The Most High, God who hears, The Lord is my strength, & one of my new favorites--My Helper!!! I've been praying that for a girl I know, that she would know God as her Helper. She would embrace the way He comes along side her & provides fresh insights, encouragement, & a renewed strength. She, like all of us at one time or another, is just going through stuff that doesn't make sense, so it tends to bring out some anger & confusion, & sadness of not understanding the "why's" of it all. I didn't have a whole lot of words to give her, I mean I get it, I understand what she's going through but sometimes there's just not much to say, except, "hang in there, you'll get through this as long as you keep eyes & your heart fixed on the only One who can truly 'Fix' this!!" So my prayer for her has just been that she would know God as her "Helper". She would know He is faithful-reliable, firm, steady, & trustworthy!! That He nourishes us, props us up, & He supports us. I trust that she will, that God will turn this situation around & giver her His peace. She is His daughter, His sweet princess, & He of course takes care of His children--always. So if your having some trouble or someone you know is, remember that God is your Heloer!! Go to Him--seek Him--pray & trust in His sovereignty. He will always take care of us--always!! Psalm 69:16- Take care of me, for your mercy is so plentiful.

Gal 6:2- Carry each other's burden, & in this way you fulfill the law of Christ...this verse is such a great reminder of how we should treat each other. Putting other people before ourselves is important & it doesn't consist of letting people walk over us, or being a doormat. It's just that your mindful of others & their needs. You pray for them or w/ them. You give encouraging words. You help out. You look like Jesus to them. Some people have no idea who He is, how great if we can be that reflection of Him. It's not always easy, believe me I know it's not easy, especially when you work around a bunch of teenagers, but I think this verse says it all--"you will fulfill the law of Christ." So let's make sure we're all doing our part by "carrying" the burdens. I know, atleast our part of the world, will be a much better place!!

Gal 6:9- Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up....this is one of my favorite verses!!! It was the 1st thing on my mind when my alarm went off this morning. The storm had me up most of the night & so when my alarm went off I was ready to give up. But God gave me this verse & I thought, "okay--I'm up & moving..sort of!" But beyond that, this verse reminds us of the hope we have through Jesus--if we keep going, we will reap a harvest!! That's exciting & encouraging & I pray it is for you also. We all have times when we do get tired & we want to quit, I know I have!! But remember this verse...take your time w/ God so He can revive & restore you & don't give up, knowing that if you don't, whatever it is your doing for God & working towards, He will bring it to full circle for your good & His glory!! That end result is always the best we can have!!!

As I write this I want you to know that the outcome of the Super Bowl really means nothing to me. I'm not a fan of either team. I only know the names of some of the Patriot players b/c of the things they've done--good & bad--and, well I don't know any of the Falcons players except I know they call the quarterback Matt Ryan, Mattyice, but I couldn't tell you why, so all that being said I'm just going to give my opinion on this game & take it just as it is--my opinion.....Falcons jump ahead--waaay ahead the score is 28-3, they start to get comfy, they start to think, "we've got this game in the bag!" I'm sure fans, from both sides, thought that too. I know Monte turned it to Americas Funniest Videos b/c he thought the Patriots lost it. Then all of a sudden, here come the Pats....well the rest, if your watching the news, is history. Tom Brady did what he does best--he, along w/ his teammates of course, won the game!! They came from that big of a deficit and won the ultimate football game 34-28. So how does or can this relate to our everyday lives??? I'm sure your wondering lol. Well I'm listening to the news, listening to Monte, & I thought, "the Falcons lost their guard!" And I think sometimes we do that too. We think we're doing great-everything is going just how we want it too & we start to ease up on our armor. We forget to put all the pieces on that protect us & before we know it...we're fumbling around, finding ourselves vulnerable to satans attacks. The good thing for us, that didn't happen for the Falcons, is that God gives us constant reminders to make sure we stay protected, stay victorious through Him, & I want to pass 1 of them on to you!!! Let's make sure as we go through out our day that we do exactly what this verse says--b/c through God & His word...we're guaranteed the Victory!!!!! 1Cor 16:13- Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.

Natalie has had this old table in her room for awhile, she used it for many different reasons, one of them being homework. I don't think it ever was really used for that b/c her homework is usually done in the living room. So she decided she didn't want it or need it in her room anymore. She said, "Mom do you want this table? You could paint it or if not, just get rid of it b/c I don't want it." I glanced at it & thought maybe I could paint it...then thought I didn't really know where I'd put it or what I would do w/ it, so it was on it's way out. So I went to put it outside & when I looked at it I was taken back. She had verses wrote all over it in different places. I said, "oh my gosh Natalie!! That is so awesome--you've got verses everywhere!!!" She said she had wrote them as a reminder or if she just wanted to see something good. We'll let me tell you this little table took on a whole new meaning for me. This was God speaking to my little girl. These were the words of our Creator reminding her of her worth in Him, of His love for her, & of the way in which He desires for her to walk in Him. So I'm sure you can guess, I couldn't get rid of that table!! It's in my room now, it's not serving any purpose right at the moment except to remind me that God has His hand on Natalie. I worry about her in ways that I've never worried about her brothers. I guess that's normal, she's my little girl, my side-kick, there's not to many places that I would go that she wouldn't have been to far behind me. Now she's becoming more independent. She's going to the edge of the nest, looking out & starting to flap those wings. It makes me nervous, it's bitter-sweet, but all in all...it's good! It's what it's supposed to be. I go to that table & I get to see & know that God always has & always will have His hand on & over this girl. That she's gonna soar & fly & her dad & I will be able to watch & see what she's gonna do all because her Heavenly Fathers word is in her heart & mind deeply!!! What a praise!!! So here are a few of the verses she has on there. I pray they bring you encouragement, comfort & strength!!! Ex 18:11- I know that The Lord is greater than all other gods. Matthew 5:37- Let your "yes" be yes, & your "no" be no. James 1:19- Everyone should be quick to listen... Jer 29:11- "for I know the plans I have for you, "declares The Lord, "plans to prosper you & not to harm you, plans to give you hope & a future."

What I'm going to pass on today is in a book I'm reading. I thought it would be a good mid-week, little bit of encouragement. I know I sure needed it. Gray skies, Ringo sprayed by a skunk-had to give him a bath, he hated it!! I told him he's a lab, he supposed to like water, I think my list could go on & on but I'm not going to let it. Anyway, I hope this gives you encouragement just like it did to me!! And if you're a boy reading this--names are same, just in boy form ;-)) Today is a good day to let the names Jesus whispers over you sink in--deeply. Not the names the enemy has called you. Not the names people have called you. Not the names you have called yourself. Jesus is the only one who gets to have the final say on who you are. And He calls you....beautiful daughter--Holy, Forgiven--Precious in His sight--the one He died for--the one He loves--the one He has plans for--the one He treasures!!! Romans 8:38&39- I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from Gods love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today or our worries about tomorrow--not even the powers of hell can separate us from Gods love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below--indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

A football player would never go out on the field & play a game w/ out all his equipment on & securely in place. The same should go for us, we need to have our armor on & in place. Letting each piece protect & do for us what God has intended for it to do. Make sure you put your full armor on before you step outside each day. We are in constant battle, but God equips us w/ all we need for protection & most importantly Victory through & w/ Him. So let's make sure each day we've got our armor on, "& when we've done everything to stand, Stand firm." (Eph 6:13&14) Eph 6:10&11- Finally, be strong in The Lord & in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devils schemes.

I am not a very political person. Monte is, he knows way more about what's going on in the world than I could ever think about knowing. I know what I believe in, I know what the bible says & if I don't I do my best to find out. So I'm not completely clueless, I just don't pay much attention. So this morning as the news was on they were talking about the president, shock right?, one story was about somebody in Fort Wayne who clearly doesn't like the man, & another was about celebrities bashing him at some awards show. I wasn't paying attention at first, Monte was, I heard mumbles & groans & started paying attention. Then I started thinking, okay, there are people who absolutely loathe him, your gonna have that, I'm pretty sure there's not been one yet who people haven't felt that way about, but really the absolute bottom line is, instead of all the nasty remarks, pouting b/c your person didn't win, marching, rioting, just down right hatefulness, pray for him!!!! I know that seems like something you wouldn't want to do, especially if you don't like him, but maybe look at it like this...He may be in charge of the country, but ultimately, God is in charge of ALL!!! And He says in 1Timothy 2:1&2- I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession & thanksgiving be made for all people---for kings & all those in authority, that we may live peaceful & quiet lives in all godliness & holiness. So it's pretty simple, or it seems like it should be--no matter who's at the whitehouse--we've got to pray for them. That's kinda our part. We want peaceful lives filled w/ godliness & holiness, we've got to pray. So lets do our best to do that. Praying Gods wisdom & knowledge on all those making choices & decisions on our behalf. That's how the difference is going to be made, not by being hateful, but by praying!!! Let's start today.

This morning as I was praying, I was praying for a friend who lost a child. Now you know all the hope & anticipation that goes into a new little baby & then when that doesn't happen, it's devastating. It changes everything. You are not the same person that you once were. That can be okay, if your letting God do the healing & take that grief & turn it around & it seems that she is, so that is a praise. Shes also found out she is expecting again, so what great praise is continuously being lifted up for them all. But as I was praying for her & her little family I thought about the verses in Ecclesiastes chapter 3. Verse 1 says "there is a time for everything, & a season for every activity under the heavens." Then the next 7 verses talk about that, the different things there is a "time" for. So when I was praying I knew that verses 4 & 5 were going to be just for her..."a time to weep & a time to laugh, a time to mourn & a time to dance." She has wept & mourned but is now being able to experience the laughter & the dancing!! It really just brought me to tears!!! Then I read a little further & verse 11 says, "He has made everything beautiful in it's time." Grief & sadness are never ever fun to go through, but what great hope God gives to us. He says, "yes, there's gonna be bad stuff, sad stuff, but that is only for a "time"--for a moment. Hold on to me b/c I bring good, I give hope, & I offer My love!!" That is so exciting, so reassuring. I hope you find the same excitement in these words that God gives us & if your "time" right now is a little less than good, remember it's only for a moment--trust in Him, go to Him & let Him continue to do His good work & change that weeping into laughter!!! What a great hope to have--to laugh in & w/ our great Savior!!!

One of my favorite books in the bible is Esther. I love how she just went from just being this ordinary girl, into the queen. I love that her cousin, Mordacai-who raised her b/c she was an orphan, helped to encourage her in her faith & remind her of that faith. It's such an amazing story & I encourage you all to read it. My favorite part is in Esther 4:14, when Mordacai says to her, "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" There was a lot going on at that time & Mordacai had heard of plot to destroy all the Jewish people & he was like, "hey!! What are you gonna do? You need to talk to your husband, the King!!" She was kinda like..."Hhhmm--weeelll I don't know..." And then he said that to her, reminded her that she wasn't queen just by "accident" -- there was a certain reason, a specific purpose & she needed to seek God, reach out to Him & let Him guide her on what needed to be done. So she did, she fasted, prayed & followed exactly what God wanted her to do. I said all that to say this...sometimes I get a little flat, or I feel like what's my purpose?? I told Monte the other day (now just know I was being a tad dramatic) that maybe I'm supposed to go on a mission trip...he's always very calm when I get like this..."where you gonna go Miss?" "Africa!!!!!!" He just shakes his head & says "yes, they need Jesus too...but Africa?" I go pledging my reasoning & he half listens & half reading. So when I told him I was meeting my BF for coffee after work he was all for it. He knows that when wisdom needs to be heard for each of us, we'll listen to each other. So she became my Mordacai..."yes, mission work in Africa is important, but look around you & look who's lives your impacting right here!!! This is your mission right now!! Maybe your supposed to go somewhere, but don't you think right now--right here is where your supposed to be, doing His work--in the mission field of this town!!??!!" Hhhmm--maybe so. So don't ever think that you have to do something big or up front in order to make a difference for God. Let Him use you right where you are. Maybe your supposed to go somewhere but maybe, just maybe, He's called you right here...for such a time as this!!" I hope this gives you encouragement to let God just work in your life & you to just be obedient to His calling for you!!!!

I was getting ready this morning & just had random thoughts running through my head, then all the sudden different things from the past start creeping up--past mistakes, past failures, anything that wasn't necessarily good, it was there. I was thinking, "really!! It's to early for these kind of thoughts!" Then as quickly as they came in, God reminded me of this verse...2Cor 5:17- Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. I was so excited, right there in the shower I said, "AMEN!!! Yes, You are so right Father!!! I'm not defined by the things in the past, I'm continuously refined by your grace & love!" This has made the rest of the morning much better, easier to get going. I'm not weighed down by these discouraging thoughts. Instead I'm lifted up by Gods encouragement!! So if you get to thinking like I did this morning, remember that God takes the old & either helps you forget or turns it into something new & good & glory to Him!! Such great help for me & I pray for you also!!!

I know I've shared this verse w/ you before & even talked about what I'm going too, but I think in light of all the "marches" & protests it might just be a good reminder for us. Jake has always been my crazy dresser. Well he's always just been my crazy kid. If anybody's name was going to be repeated over & over....& over, it was going to be his. I've said many times, "Jake, I shouldn't have to keep saying your name!!!" The sad thing is at 23, I'm still saying that on occasion. Anyway, back to his choices in fashion. When he was about 3 he found great joy in wearing those black rubber boots. He called them "his farm boots." He wore them everywhere, for every season, every situation, didn't matter he put them on everyday. He loved them b/c (his words) "I don't have to wait for someone to help me, he was 3 couldn't tie, I don't have to wear socks, even though he should have, sweaty feet in rubber boots don't make for pleasant odors, and if I get them dirty I can pour water on them & they come clean!!" They were the perfect solution for this happy 3 yr old. Well my mom was taking Trev & Jake shopping & was going to buy them tennis shoes. Trevor picks his out, Power Ranger I'm sure, & Jake picks out--yep--black rubber boots!! My mom did her best to talk him out of them but he was not changing his mind. Trevor even said, in his disgusted voice when Jake was getting on his nerves, "Grandma, that's all he wears & mom let's him!!" Trevor has often questioned my parenting choices w/ his siblings even at the tender age of 5. So they get home, this was before cell phones & she couldn't call to let me know what was up, & my mom is telling me how she tried to talk him out of them but he wasn't having it. I told her I was sorry, I should've warned her about his shoe choice. She said that she did buy him the boots. He was excited!! He knew each morning what he was going to "clothe" himself with, these boots!! It was something each day he would put on. He's had many different choices in clothes that has been against my & Trevs better judgement, but he's put them on each day. What brought all this thinking on of what we clothe ourselves with, was seeing his Tide racing jacket that he bought at the Goodwill store a couple years ago that he has yet to part with...but it reminded me of this verse.. Colossians 3:12- Therefore, as Gods chosen people, holy & dearly loved, clothe yourselves w/ compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness & patience. These are things that we should "put on" each day. No matter what!! Doesn't matter if it's not "in style" or that other people look at us like we're weird, these are the things that God says to make sure we have on. It's not always easy, especially when people are mean & unkind to us, to think we should be kind to them, is almost crazy. But the beginning of this verse speaks volumes..."as Gods chosen people" He's chosen us--& this is how He wants us to dress!! I think it's something we should make sure we put on each day. So just like those favorite black rubber boots of Jakes, let's take The kindness & all the others & make sure we have them on when we walk out our door!!!

Psalm 34:18- The Lord is close to the brokenhearted & saves those who are crushed in spirit....praying this verse would bring hope & comfort to all those who are feeling loss. Loss can look different to each of us depending on the situation. It could be the death of a loved one or friend, or just the ending of a relationship that you had put so much hope into. No matter why your heart is broke or your spirit crushed, God takes care of you. He saves you, restores you, & will give you the strength you never thought you had to get through whatever it may be your going through. So don't be downcast or discouraged, turn to God & let His closeness & His love heal the brokenness & restore your soul!!! Remember "sorrow may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning!" He brings us that promise of hope. So let's let God be what gives us comfort & courage today!!!

Psalm 56:3- When I am afraid, I put my trust in you...What a great verse. It's so powerful w/out a lot of words. I'm sure David wrote it in one of his many running & hiding from King Saul, who was trying to kill him. I don't have anyone trying to kill me, Monte maybe, especially after my dramatic stove/pan incident, but that's a story for another day lol, but there are times I am afraid. I'm afraid for my kids, I just want good things & happiness for them & I forget that sometimes they've got to walk through the fire so that God can purify them & do & work in them-His mighty plan, (not mine!!) turning them into the diamonds He wants them to be. I'm afraid, sometimes, for my sister, she lives so far away & I feel anxious for her. I'm afraid, at times, for our country, I wish that we could live in unity, that the shootings & the hate would go away & we would show kindness to each other, even/especially when it's not deserved. I guess I could probably go on & on w/ my fears, but I'm not going to. We all have fears, we get scared, nervous, or anxious, but what we need to do is exactly what this verse says, put our trust in God. There's no promise that we'll never be scared but there certainly is answer to the fear--God!!! So if your fears start to creep up & you find yourself worrying & fretting, go to God! Read His word, especially the book of Psalms, pray-tell Him all about those fears--& then just rest in God & let Him turn those fears around, equipping you w/ exactly what you need so you can continue on. Giving you His strength & courage to get through that time of fear. He takes care of us always & loves us endlessly. I pray that gives you the promise of hope through the times of being afraid!!

Watching the Greenbay Packers w/ Trevor is not fun. He's very emotional, that's his team. He loves everything about them. So when he was home he had to go to his grandparents house to watch the game. He would yell at the tv, throw things, jump up on the couch, it was to much. So let's talk about the Packers-Cowboys game last night. There was yelling at the tv, turning the channel b/c, "I can't take this, this is ridiculous," deciding that, "the Packers are really Americas team b/c they are owned by the people." Now you might be thinking, "oh Trevor came over to watch the game." No, that would be his dad!!! Right away I knew where Trevor got it, it was very obvious. Now I could care less about football. I don't know much about it, in all honesty I don't really have a favorite team. I could care less!! But last night I found myself so worried about this game. I'm not even kidding, before I knew it I was praying for these Packers players. I didn't even realize I was doing it. Until the Cowboys intercepted the ball & Monte was not very happy & I found myself feeling anxious, my heart was racing, my stomach was in knots, & I realized, "I've been praying for these people!?" I don't know them, I'm never going to know them, & does God really care about the outcome of this game? I mean I know He loves the players & all those involved, but does it really matter if the kicker has enough strength to make this 51 yard field goal? I don't know!! But I was praying for him!! Then I was thinking prayer is important no matter what we're praying about, it's communication w/ God! Important!! I remember one time somebody said to me, that "God goes through our prayers like mail & throws the junk out." I don't believe that, I believe if it's important to us--it's important to God. Working w/ kids I have prayed for animals, deer hunting season, school work, spending time w/ friends, families, everything. There were times when I thought, "hhmm--well okay!" But it's important & it's important for kids, all of us, to know that God loves for us to pray to Him. It's like if you have kids, you want them to talk to you, about whatever is on their minds. So no matter what it is, no matter how trivial it might seem, if you want to talk to God about it--do it!!!Go to Him & let Him know (even though He does!) what's on your mind. I know you'll be do glad you did. Even after I thought, "why am I praying for this game?" I thought, "oh well, it's time well spent & words well said!" Here's a verse or 2 to just remind you to always pray, about everything!! 1Thess 5:16-18- Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is Gods will for you in Christ Jesus.

It's Friday!!! Yay!!! That always brings a smile to most faces. We're glad for the break of the weekend. Ready to be able to sleep in or get some things done that we haven't during the week (laundry!!!) or just do nothing. But this Friday is Friday the 13th!!! Ooohhhh I remember watching those movies through out high school at our sleep overs. Had to have atleast 1 scary movie & it seemed it was Jason & his many freaky adventures w/ high school kids at some abandon lake resort. Well this Friday we're supposed to have ice come in!!! That is scary enough w/ out watching Jason in his hockey mask!!! So what I wanted to give you all today is just a verse or 2 that is encouraging. That brings us hope. That reminds us that God is w/ us always & that he takes care & protects His children. So even though it's Friday the 13th & we have this impending curse of ice lol, take Gods word & hold it close & know that He protects, provides, encourages, & loves us always!!! Isaiah 43:2&3- When you pass through the waters, I will be w/ you; & when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;... Isaiah 61:10- I delight greatly in The Lord; my soul rejoices in my God.

I know I've talked before about how I love to read about the different names of God & what they mean & how they apply to us today just like they did back in bible times. Well the One that sticks out to me today is Jehovah Ezrah--My Helper. Isn't it so encouraging to know that God comes right along side us, He encourages us, He provides us w/ strength, & insight. He equips us for all that He has planned for us to do!!! He is faithful to us--reliable, firm, steady & trustworthy. He nourishes us, props us up & always gives us His support!!! This kind of knowledge reminds me to be so thankful even in the times I'm feeling alone. He reminds me I'm/we are not alone. It's encouraging & even beneficial to know these things, to know Gods word & take it w/ us wherever we go. So remember these things as you go through out your day today, your Jehovah Ezrah--Your Helper is w/ you always!! Matthew 28:20- I am w/ you always, to the end of the age.

Today I'm going to get just a little mushy....it's Natalie's 17th birthday!!! Every time I say that I find it so hard to believe. How did she get to be 17!!?? She should still be playing w/ barbies, not looking at prom dresses. She should still have a bed time of 8:30, not working till 9 & then starting her homework after that. I know that time has away of moving on & college visits are in our near future, & really I'm excited for her. I know that she is seeking His will in the decisions that she's making. I know that she is constantly becoming a godly young woman after Gods own heart & how exciting that is to see. So even though my momma heart would love to turn the clock back for just a little bit, I'm thankful for this time to watch her grow in grace & love & see all the great things God has for her. She makes my heart smile always!! And even more than that--I'm sure God is smiling too!!! Happy Birthday sweet girl!!! Jeremiah 29:11- "For I know the plans I have for you," declares The Lord, "plans to prosper you & not to harm you, plans to give you hope & a future."

I wasn't going to send anything out today...mostly b/c I'm struggling w/ God wanting to show forgiveness or compassion to me. Have you ever felt like you've just stepped in a big ol' pile of YUCK & how could or why would God want to be near you?? I'm kinda there...my actions & my thoughts are not where they need to be--not where they've ever been. So anyway I thought, "I'm just gonna lay low. I'm going to pray & read my bible & just let God do what I know He will!!" He doesn't want me like this, I fully know that!! I was writing in my journal & here is what was on the top of the 2 pages I was writing on... "God knows your value; He sees your potential. You may not understand everything you are going through right now. But hold your head up high, knowing that God is in control & He has a great plan & purpose for your life." Galatians 1:15 (NCV)- God has special plans for me & set me apart for his work...He called me through his grace. After reading that I thought, "okay--I've stumbled, fell, & crawled, but Gods not done w/ me!!! He's not turning away. His mercy is endless & His grace is enough!!" So it's a new day of a new week & I'm ready to go wherever He leads!! Hope you all have a great Monday!!!

My mom had a heavy day yesterday so I'm going to start this week out w/ something light that hopefully puts a smile on her face & yours too.....I read on fb (where everything is true right??) that if you wake up w/ a song on your mind that it's an angel that has sung to you while you're sleeping. Well most of the time I wake up w/ a cheer!! Yes, a cheer. Would you like an example....V I C T O R Y--thats our Wildcat battle cry---or how bout....Hip Hop FC rocks let me see that left drop...BOOM shake it out...you get the idea. So I decided that it must be that an angel or angels are cheering me on...right?! How else could that be explained. They see my struggles & my battles so why wouldn't they want to cheer me on. How great is it to think about this "great cloud of witnesses" cheering me on--cheering us on!! It makes me excited. None of us are ever alone, God loves us & takes care of us, even in our deepest of slumbers. So I hope this encourages you all as you start your week out. To know & have the assurance of Gods great love for you!! I'll leave you w/ a verse or 2 of course & a cheer to "cheer" you on!!! Hebrews 12:1&2- Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders & the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run w/ perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer & perfecter of faith. "Our team is whaaat? RED HOT Our team is what?? RED HOT Our team is R E D oh baby W/ a little bit of H O T RED HOT--Red Hot Red Hot Red Hot!!!!