My Little Corner of God's Great World!

WOW - Submission is better than Permission

2011-01-13T21:40:00.000-08:00

Just an apology to start for such a lapse in posts. Things have been very exciting & busy. The Lord is definitely doing a work. Always thought the saying, "Its easier to ask for forgiveness than permission" was cute. Well, the Lord convicted me of it & its not easier nor is it His way. His way is submission. If we are following the Lord, seeking His direction & willingly submitting to Him asking for someone else to forgive us will not be an issue & if it is, it won't be difficult because you will feel so convicted until you did that relief/peace will fill you. We have experienced some amazing thing so far this year & we're not 15 days into the new year. THIS EXCITES ME! I am ready for what the Lord has for us! Have to say that as He is speaking & doing new things that I have been a little scared - ONLY because its so new & different. I have actually been praying that the Lord will help me stay out of the way of what He's doing. Whatever that may be. These changes also let me know that the scripture verse I chose was perfect for me. God has met me more than halfway and freed me from my anxious fears! Not ready to reveal any of the details of the things going on yet. Waiting on his timing to share and it may have to be a series of posts. Praying for God's favour & blessings in your lives & that you can hear the still, small whispers of the Lord because He is always speaking! Have a GREAT Friday everyone! Love y'all!

Wednesdays & Church - I Love 'em!

2011-01-05T20:11:00.000-08:00

Can I just say that I love Wednesday night services! It is good to be able to fellowship, praise, worship, pray & learn with fellow believers. Sometimes it just feels good to be with like minded believers. We are going thru a learning, stretching, growing phase & personally - I LOVE IT! We are on a 21 day journey & it is amazing how the Lord has spoken to me about me, my husband & my family. There are exciting things in store for us in 2011 - God is doing a new thing - a GREAT & WONDERFUL thing. He is going to receive more glory, praise & honor! We started this journey on 1/3/11 (even though he has been preparing us for months). In just 2 days He has done a work. I am not surprised but then again I am. The abundance of what He is doing will lead to more rewards than I ever thought possible. He will do exceedingly, abundantly above all we could ask or think! THANK YOU LORD for your faithfulness, grace, mercy, love & patience with us. I'm excited about how you will use us for your kingdom. Allow us to continue to listen to your direction, follow obediently & quickly. Help us to continue willingly on the potters wheel as you mold & make us into your servants. Great day, great night, visions galore. Excuse me while I put these new ones on paper. Love y'all

School is Back in Session

2011-01-04T20:38:00.000-08:00

Today marks the beginning of school back in session. I am not one of those parents that enjoys this day. As a matter of fact, I seriously DISLIKE it. Sure my (precious - cough, cough) son Douglas can be quite a handful at times but I would rather have him home spending time with me! Sure he needs to learn & all that - blah, blah, blah..... I just truly enjoy him. He likes to make me laugh & sometimes doesn't have to try very hard for that to happen. I miss the days when his sister, Kirsten was here with us. And to go back even farther his big brother, Joseph. And he does too! But we are all going in different directions, spreading our wings & trying to fly, so things must go on. It was quite an eventful start to our day. We were right on schedule (which chould have been a clue of pending problems). Of course Douglas had to make me laugh this morning. Unfortunately he was not trying. He was eating breakfast before we had to leave. I was starting laundry, already had the truck warming up, packed with my supplies for work, my purse, daytimer & his backpack. Then all of the sudden I hear, MMMOOOMMMMMMAAA! I knew things had taken a bad turn. I ran into the kitchen to find that Douglas' cereal bowl for some strange reason had decided that Doug's lap would be a better place than the table to reside! Needless to say, I was trying not to laugh but not successful at it! Still, chuckling now when I think of it again. To Douglas' defense, his arm is in a cast. Well, this little incident changed us being right on schedule. Douglas was tardy. But the alternative was for him to wear milk saturated blue jeans. NOT GOING TO HAPPEN! Douglas had a good day in spite of how it started. Thank you Lord.
We are back on track with school. The reading was done, learned our spelling words, science key terms homework done, tests marked on calendar & all before 7:00pm - THIS IS A RECORD! Only because of no math, english, social studies or vocabulary homework! Thank you to those teachers for cutting a Momma some slack tonight. Not looking forward to report cards coming home this week. Douglas is a very good student with a little push (shove) from me to study. Usually it doesn't take long once he trys but sometimes getting to that place is a difficult road to travel. He's a boy. He doesn't want to study. Its not in their nature. He wants to be playing outside, inside or upside down! And to be honest, I wouldn't have it any other way. Sometimes they just need to be children. Not children being forced to act like & make adult decisions! OK, I will step down off my soapbox - SORRY - its a pet peeve.
As today draws to end & the house is quiet, I am thankful that today is over & tomorrow will bring new & exciting things for us. For one, tomorrow is Wednesday & church. I enjoy being with fellow believers. The Lord has been working in our family, speaking to us individually but also together (with the same message). Anticipation & Excitement are overflowing but with a calm, peaceful reassurance that I'm not sure that I have felt before. Its really cool. My scripture verse of Psalms 34:4 is really helping. Thank you Lord for the works you are doing! Well friends, my bed, pillow & blanker are calling & I'm ready to answer. Sweet, Restful Dreams! Love y'all - Good Night

Hello 2011

2011-01-03T08:44:00.000-08:00

Well friends, I'M BACK! Yes, after over a years absence on this blog - I'm back! Sometimes the Lord takes you away from things for a time of reflection. OR Life happens & you get sidetracked from the things that you love. I love writing. I enjoy putting my thoughts on paper, so to speak. I am much better at that than trying to have a conversation. Usually because when writing you can go back over & edit or rearrange things - not so much in conversations. Many of us would stay out of trouble if we could edit or rearrange the conversations we have. Just an observation from my own experiences.
I am extremely excited about what 2011 holds for my family. We have been praying & seeking the Lord for the past two months regarding changes that we feel need to be made. Things for 2011 look very positive & with the Lord's guidance, changes will take place that will benefit our family. I am in the process of writing down these changes, my personal ones, along with the family ones. Its amazing to look back over the ones from previous years & see how far we've come or how short we fell. This year to try to avoid the shortcomings, we have prayed about these changes & are believing that the Lord has led us to the goals that we have. Going to start a 21 day period of prayer over these specific changes & see where the Lord leads. It may be to keep them, change them or start over completely! Either way, we want the Lord to be in it - whatever it is or turns out to be.
The year 2010 was very full of stuff. Stuff is the only word that will begin to cover it all. It had highs & lows, as all years do. It seemed to have much more stress & difficulties. I'm not sure if that is due to the way our world is, our mindset or being tired. I say tired because some of the things we dealt with (or are still dealing with) relate back to unresolved issues regarding previous errors in judgement. I'm sure none of you have had any of those! LOL The Lord has definitely strengthened our love for one another & Him during these times. But in saying that I feel that we have fallen short in sharing how faithful the Lord has been to us. He has provided words of knowledge, answered prayers, healings, blessings & favor. So this year we have resolved to share more of what the Lord is doing in our lives. Not because it is about us - but about HIS FAITHFUL POWER & LOVE & so that He can recieve all honor & glory!
Today starts the beginning of a wonderful NEW journey with the Lord for our family. There is so much anticipation as we walk down a new road of faith/glory with the Lord. He will take us (as His word says) from glory to glory. I will try to be more diligent in keeping everyone updated on how this journey unfolds. So sit back & enjoy our ride together because the Lord has great things in store for us. As His will unfolds in our lives, we pray that it will be a blessing for you. Love y'all!

Psalm 34:4 - I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. (NIV)
Psalm 34:4 - God met me more than halfway, He freed me from my anxious fears. (MSG)

Don't go to the ballpark!!!!

2009-05-19T06:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posts! Things have been hectic in our world, i.e.-graduation, senior things, softball, baseball, school, work & etc. But on to this post.

DON'T GO TO THE BALLPARK!!!!!!!! If you don't want to see smoking at a public park, don't go! If you don't want to hear foul language, don't go! If you don't want to see your family, friends, fellow christians sacrifice their witness, DON'T GO!!!!!! I love baseball & several other sports but I continue to be amazed every year when I go to sporting events! It appears to me that once people get there or maybe even on the way to the event --- their brains fall out of their heads!!! Sporting events bring out the worst in people!?!?!?!? WHY???? Maybe I'm to logical but I don't understand it. People want to hurt other people that normally they get along with or are at least cordial to. Sporting events cause someone you think is normal to act like a TOTAL MORON or WORSE!!!!! And people instigate problems, i.e. making smart comments (I guess to make them look cute) NEWSFLASH: It just makes you look like a bigger IDIOT!!!!! They scream at umpires, referees, other coaches, even parents screaming at other parents! Does this not sound pathetic???? IT'S JUST A BALLGAME!!!!!!
Here's how I look at it: The umpires, referees are human & they will make bad calls! (Hopefully if they are prejudice against one team or the other, the person in charge of the park/event will do their job & fix it------I am aware that this is not usually the case!) If they don't you have to move on!!!!! Winning at all costs is UNACCEPTABLE! It needs to be a fair win or its not really a win!! (Think about it for a moment!) Coaches want their team to shine not only for the players but for themselves too! (OUCH!!!-a little selfish-yes but they have put their time & effort into it, so some of that is acceptable!) Its just that it becomes an obession! I understand men/boys are competitive but when did being competitive mean being stupid?????? The thing that most people need to realize is when you act like your world (marriage, spouse, children, health, home, job, cars or etc.) hinges on the outcome of a ballgame you have lost ALL PERSPECTIVE!!!!!!!!!! If your marriage were falling apart, if you, your spouse, your children, your parents or another loved one were dying......would that INSIGNIFICANT sporting event even matter.....would you even give it a second thought! OR Would you be so thankful, grateful, and appreciative of every moment that is left??????

For Heaven's Sake: SEE THE BIGGER PICTURE!!!! IT'S JUST A GAME!!! By the way, isn't it supposed to be fun. According to Webster's the definition of game is amusement, play. Well, the players are playing & the rest of you are REALLY AMUSING!

Does sportsmanship not play a role in organized sports any more??? Let me refresh everyone's memory on the definition of sportsmanship. Sportsmanship: fair play, respect for opponents, & gracious behavior in winning or losing. Maybe that definition needs to be posted on a sign at all parks or stadiums? The sad part it would probably be ignored just like the existing signs.

Your on display every day. Your testimony is out there whether you realize it or not. What is it saying about you??????? HMMMM!

OK I will step down from my soapbox now. I do hope this was eye opening for some of you or at least makes you stop & think about the people around you - especially at sporting events! I would ask that you pray for them & for yourself that these events don't cause you or anyone else to sacrifice their witness. We are called to be different. A light to a dark & dying world. Just something to think about! Love y'all!

How Is Your Tuesday?

2009-03-31T06:03:00.000-07:00

Today is Tuesday & I'm trying to catch up on everything that has fallen by the wayside due to other more important things (i.e. time w/HD, sick children, plant sale, work, meals, medicines & etc.)! Laundry is a never ending battle!!! I know that y'all can relate!! I vow (with HD's help) to be victorious over it every day! FYI - I hate stinky dirty clothes! Dirty dishes need to go in the dishwasher! Floors need to be vaccumed &/or mopped. Furniture needs to be dusted & polished. But guess what? Most of those things won't get done today!! Not a good thing or bad thing-just reality! Gary is working 12-14 hours a day all this week (INVENTORY)! I will be working, ball games & practice (maybe-weather permitting), groceries, meals (two down & one to go), beds to make, 5 dogs to handle, & follow-up on several misc items! The GREAT thing about today even though I won't get everything done today that needs to be done---------HD LOVES ME!!! He sees my efforts, knows my heart & I spent time with him this morning. He gave me peace to start my day!!! He doesn't want me to stress or have anxiety over all the things that need to be accomplished today! Enjoy the day, EVEN THE RAIN or STORMS! The storms today are similar to the ones we face in life. You can sit back & watch. You can allow HD to give you strength by walking through them. OR You can be anxious & stress yourself & everyone around you out over them? Enjoy today --- ALL of it! Let me know how Tuesday turns out for you! Love to y'all! Joannie

Explanation of Absence

2009-03-18T22:45:00.000-07:00

Hey Friends!
Its been a Roller Coaster at our house recently. This information is explained in detail on my other blog: joannie-wordstoponder.blogspot.com Catch up on the Spates family & our recent struggles. The good news is that HD has not given up on us & we are having our faith stretched as we grow & experience new things to share with others later on. Be back regularly soon--maybe after Spring Break! Enjoy this awesome weather & play outdoors, plant things & soak up some rays for us!!! Love to y'all! Joannie

A Day of Catching Up!

2009-03-07T07:36:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Friends!
It has been a very busy week for our family. I want to apologize for not giving an update on how everything went at the VA with my Dad Tuesday. He saw the specialist who still can't give a definite diagnosis either but he feels that the current treatment plan may be working. (I don't understand how that works ...but...) He wants to see my Dad back in a month to see if things are still the same. The bright spot was they are going to slowly take him off some of the meds(which he is taking 5 different ones at 2 hour intervals). This has made it hard for my Momma to get any complete rest!!! I do want to THANK each of you for your prayers & please continue to remember them!!!
We had two softball games this week for Kirsten & a team meeting for Douglas' team. He starts baseball practice next week. There was church Wednesday night. Thursday was spent at Montevallo with Kirsten for a day of ART! She got to go to two free art workshops (they let me tag along too)! It was a very fun Mother/Daughter day. We don't get many of those anymore & I enjoyed laughing & talking with her. When your children are teenagers, sometimes it seems that you are fussing with them more than talking. I know that its just the age & their fight for independence! But let me just say that it was nice to have a day that I could spend with my daughter & not that independent fighter that I usually deal with! She is awesome in so many ways & yes I'm proud of her as I am ALL my children. They each have different strengths & abilities & its been a real blessing to be their Momma!!!! We also got to see Montevallo where Kirsten will be going to school in the fall. I really liked it. We even met some of the Art teachers & they were extremely nice too. After our Montevallo visit, we went to see Joseph & Emily. Joseph was off from the police department & was working for his landscaping business. Emily only worked a half day due to having to travel out of town on Friday. It was great to get to see them & all the things that they've done to the new house! It was beautiful!!!! We then went for a great lunch at O'Charley's (I miss not having them on 280)! It would have been perfect if Gary & Douglas could have been there too -- but there was school & work!

I was reading a verse this morning that touched me but only after I read it in the Message bible.
The NIV Psalms 34:7 The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
The MSG Psalms 34:7 God's angel sets up a circle of protection around us while we pray.
I'm praying that your weekend is enjoyable even if its busy, that you get to spend quality time with your loved ones, & that through your prayers HD's protection is around you & your family.

Remember to top off your weekend with a trip to your church for Sunday services! See you there!
Love to y'all!
Joannie

Request

2009-03-03T05:48:00.000-08:00

Good Morning!
I have a request this morning of my fellow bloggers. Please pray for my Daddy, my Momma & myself today. My Daddy has to go back to the VA hospital today. This will be our 5th trip in 3 weeks. They are having a hard time diagnosing & treating him. He has a deep infection in his eye that he's seeing another specialist about today. He has the early stages of dementia also besides just being old, set in his ways & most days just stubborn. Don't get me wrong---I LOVE MY DADDY! The problem is the man he is now is not my Daddy. Its been extremely hard on my Momma. They have been married going on 61 years!! She definitely loves him!!! He has numerous other health issues going on other than the ones I listed. Please pray that today I can REALLY have my Heavenly Daddy's love shining through in all I say or do. I run out of patience very quickly with my Dad. I hurt for my Momma & all she goes through with him. The days when I have to take them to Drs appointments are hard for me & sometimes it seems almost impossible keep a positive attitude. Ask HD to help me focus on the fact that I still have them in my life!!!! I'm praying that HD blesses each of you today with just what you need to be a light to others! Thanks for the prayers!! Love to y'all!

Monday - Cold yet Warm

2009-03-02T07:07:00.000-08:00

Good Morning my fellow bloggers. Its a beautiful day outside --- cold, windy, but with the sun shining anyway. It reminds me of how its supposed to be. We can be in the midst of a storm/problem/etc (the cold & wind) but our Heavenly Daddy (HD) is there to make everything better (the sunshine). He gives us everything we need if will just listen to him & enjoy the love notes that he sends us. Yesterday was beautiful with the postcard/Christmas card scenes with snow. It was a wonderful way to get our attention to stop & look at the beauty he created for us to enjoy! As we go back to our normal routine today, don't forget to look around and enjoy the love notes that HD is sending to us. BTW maybe you could even send up a Thank you prayer! Have a Blessed day & enjoy ALL of it!
Love to y'all! Joannie

Standing Firm in the Midst of your Storms

2009-02-26T13:37:00.000-08:00

Earlier today I spoke with a good friend that I don't get to talk with very often. She is going through some things that are very difficult. God gave me a word to share with her & for some reason I feel that maybe some of you could use it also. If it doesn't apply to your life just tuck it away for future use.

Most of you know the NIV of this verse & if you read it in the MSG it gives you a better understanding.
Ephesians 6:11-13 So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life or death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet.

Sometimes its hard to stand firm against the devil. Its also hard to continue to listen to our Heavenly Daddy's voice during those times. Its like trying to listen to the whisper of Heavenly Daddy (HD) when everyone & everything around you is screaming. These things you may know with your head but you also have to know them with your heart or vice versa. This is not always easy to do. I went through a problem several months back that really left me with hard feelings toward people that were supposed to be brothers & sisters in Christ. I couldn't believe that these people would not have considered how this would not only affect me but my children (Momma claws coming out)! I knew that I had to forgive them but how? God showed me several things through this problem. There are times when all of us are human & we act like it! When we have our stupid moments(and we all do), HD forgives us. Do we want him to hesitate when we need his forgiveness. We can't let those stupid moments steal our joy! Our faith & hope is in HD & not people, so.....don't be surprised if people disappoint us. This is where we have to walk out our faith! Keep our eyes on HD & he will see us through whatever the situation. OK this does not mean that it will be easy by any means or that it will happen overnight but if we keep the faith & keep walking the walk, we will be past the finish line and into a new race before we know it. The main thing that helped me was prayer. Asking God to help me to earnestly forgive & take away any hard feelings for everyone involved.

The great news is HD answers prayer!!! It wasn't overnight by any means but it did happen. I'm very thankful because I really love these people more now because of what we've been through!! I hope that this helped some of you. Have an Awesome Evening! AND A Blessed Friday! Love to y'all! Joannie

Trying to get back on track

2009-02-24T05:58:00.000-08:00

Hey Friends! I'm praying this morning that each of you has a blessed Tuesday! Thank you for the prayers concerning the marriage retreat from all I've heard it was great! I am trying to get everything back on track from last week. The weekend (fri.) started off with yuck & continued throughout. This week started off with a bang by taking my parents back to the VA hospital Those days are exhausting, mentally, emotionally, & physically! So I'm saying today is the official beginning to my week. We did have an AWESOME service Sunday!! It is so great to be part of a church where the Spirit of God takes over & the congregation & pastor allows him to move!!!! If you've never been a part of that WOW your missing out!!! Today I'm interceding on your behalf. I don't know the things/problems/situations in your life that your facing but I'm bringing you before the Lord today. Lord, bless each of my friends today. Give them strength for the tasks at hand, wisdom & discernment for the difficult things they are facing, peace to endure & know that whether they feel it or not that you are working in every thing on their behalf. Give them joy in the little things. Let them see the love notes that your sending them. Let people see your love shining through them in everything that they say & do!! Bless my friends Lord & whatever may be going on in their life, use it to draw them closer to you. Thank you for my friends & what they mean to me & others. Thank you for answering this prayer. Let everything we do today be for your glory, honor & praise! In Jesus name, Amen.

Now we are on track for today! Love & Blessings to y'all! Joannie

Trying Day

2009-02-20T20:44:00.000-08:00

Today should have been a good day it is Friday! It didn't start out very good & felt that it spiraled downward! I woke up early with some stomach thing. YUCK! I got Kirsten & Douglas off to school & then had to lay back down. I slept for a long time. (Also meant I didn't work today-not good if your self-employed!) I got up had my devotion time & was hoping to salvage some of the day but.....it was just not to be! I tried to get a few things done. But that was short lived. Douglas came home on the bus(Kirsten was at ball practice) & he did some things that needed an attitude adjustment! Yea ---- I love being the bad guy----NOT! This took time away from trying to finish dinner. Its also Douglas' weekend at his Dad's! Tear, Sniff, Tear! Kirsten can't go because of a JROTC drill meet. Dinner was late, Kirsten came home tired & irritable (that's always fun), phones ringing, dogs barking, etc. Calgon---take me away!-----------that didn't work! The best part of this day other than the devotion time----right now. The house is quiet, I signed on blogger & got inspiration from a fellow blogger who had a GREAT day & wrote about prayers being answered in her life!!!! It made me stop & thank God for all the stuff that I had to deal with today! You ask why? Because if I didn't have difficult days like today, I would not truly appreciate the Great days when I have them! I am extremely blessed in so many different ways & I don't want to EVER take any of them for granted! So.....My trying day is ending & tomorrow will be better. FYI Prayer Request: Several couples from our church are on a weekend marriage retreat. (Gary had to work so we couldn't go) I would ask each of you to join me & pray for them. Pray that their relationship with the Lord & their spouse would be refreshed, renewed & that their love for each would grow stronger! Thanks! Have a BLESSED weekend & don't forget to spend time with your heavenly Father everyday not just Sunday! Love to y'all! Joannie

New Changes, Staying In Touch!

2009-02-17T22:58:00.000-08:00

During my absence from blogging A LOT of things happened! There have been to many to explain in one post but maybe I will share them as we go along. My wonderful husband & I have gone through things recently that have caused us to sit down & reprioritize our lives. We are both committed to God first, family second & then various other things fall in order (ours differ after these). We have prayed about our church involvements & committments. We both feel that we have heard from God as to how we are to proceed. WE LOVE OUR CHURCH & our family there!!! With that being said, God has shown us that sometimes we become so absorbed in doing "good" things/being busy for the Lord that we loose focus of our true priorities! I love being with people & enjoy all the church activities. I hate to admit it, but to be truly honest with y'all, it has caused me to not always have the quiet time with God that I need! My recent quiet time(time out)has allowed God to really minister to me & speak about his plan for me. The devil sure has tried to attack that plan by using people & situations to try to make me want to completely leave church. God has revealed to me that I can have my quiet time with him, bible study, take care of my family & even encourage my friends!!! Its amazing how God works everything out for his glory and honor! I know I shouldn't be surprised but sometimes I am! Here's the vision God has given me. A lot of you want to be involved in bible studies or life groups but can't for all sorts of reasons. These could be work/jobs, family/spouse, & time constraints just to name a few. He's given me the answer: blogger! I know that just brought about more questions for some of you but listen to the plan. I'm going to do a bible study online using blogger!!! Its my journey to a deeper relationship with Jesus that I want to share with each of you. As I share verses & questions & answers that are being revealed to me, I want to hear from all of you as you read & hopefully receive insight or just have words/scriptures to ponder. You don't have to buy any books just use your bible, you get online & read according to your own schedule. Its an answer to prayers that I've been praying for a long time about my calling & purpose. I hope that each of you will want to be a part of it but listen its not mandatory. Don't feel obligated to put something else on your "To Do" list. You can visit & comment as God leads you. I'm just being a facilitator for you to study your bible & hopefully it will be so easy for you that it becomes a habit quickly!! It also gives me the opportunity to keep in touch with friends without infringing on their work time, home time or me time. Your suggestions & comments are always welcome. Have A Blessed Wednesday & remember to talk to God today(thats what prayer is...a converstation)!
The new page is titled joannie-wordstoponder.blogspot.com!!

New Blog Coming

2009-02-17T05:53:00.000-08:00

Its almost finalized & ready!

The big reveal is only days away!

It will involve a new blog that hopefully will attract a lot of you to stop by on occasion & add insight/inspiration/wisdom or whatever it may speaking to you!!!! The countdown is on. Stay tuned for the new blogger address & details of how it will work. Enjoy this AWESOME day that God has provided for you! Look around & count your blessings. It should not be hard, let me give you an example. If you have a job and work with difficult people, at least you have a job-----thousands don't! You have your health (even if you are among those of us with sinus issues)! You have a warm home & food to eat, some people are homeless & or don't have food to eat! You obviously have access to a computer if your reading this, some people can't afford a computer! You live in country that allows you to openly worship your Savior! That alone should be enough!! Just take a moment, look around & count all your blessings. After doing this, THANK GOD FOR EACH & EVERY ONE OF THEM!!! FYI: Also pray that you never take any of them for granted, that's when you risk loosing them! Have a GREAT day enjoying all the blessings around you!! Love y'all!

Update & Prayer Request

2009-02-11T16:32:00.000-08:00

Hey Friends! I'm praying that God is richly blessing each of y'all! I wanted to give an update on the new direction of my page. Things are moving right along but with any new endeavor (especially ones geared toward Jesus), Satan wants to step in & destroy it. He is using my parents to attack me.

To explain that statement, they are 82(Dad) & 75(Mom). My Dad's health has been spiraling downhill for a LONG time. My Mom has had various health issues also. Her biggest problem right now though is my Dad. I can not begin to explain this. It has various terms/diagnosis but to sum it up.....he's mean to my Mom & anybody that gets in the way of him being mean to her. My Momma is an AWESOME woman & still loves & tries to care for this mean grizzly bear(her recent nickname for him) even after 60 years of marriage!!!!! I spent 12 hours with them yesterday at the VA hospital. Yes I was exhausted & still feeling the effects of that day. My request is for my Momma that God will continue to grant her the patience & peace to deal with him, wisdom for the doctors to be able to diagnose & treat him, for me & my siblings(there are 5 of us) to be supportive of both of them(we are finding it hard to love my Dad)! Thanks!

But back to the big reveal, it is coming soon just had some minor setbacks. According to my heavenly sources, its going to be something that will be a blessing & I'm really excited about all of it! Got to run now its almost time for church & I don't want to miss it!
Love to y'all!!!!!

You've been forewarned!

2009-02-04T21:51:00.000-08:00

To all my fellow bloggers.........I'M BACK!!! OK, now you've been forewarned! The time away has been extremely difficult with conflicts, tests & trials that I couldn't begin to explain. But ANYTHING meant for evil God can use it for his glory & honor!!! (BTW if any of these things/emotions are going on in your life: difficult/annoying/aggravating/infuriating/perplexing/
discouraging/sadness/unrest/stress or etc. -------- do yourself a favor & ask God (thru prayers)to help you handle it so he will receive glory & honor!!! God has opened up things over the last few weeks thats unbelieveable. He's ALWAYS working whether we see or feel it! The interesting part of that is he is doing more than we can even imagine when we don't see or feel him! Its like he wants to surprise us with how AWESOME he really is!! I have two new things going on with my blog for the future but I'm not quite ready to share it with you! I have to work on the big reveal so........let the anticipation build & the drum roll continue until........ Keep watching/reading its coming soon! Love to y'all!!!!

Tag----I'm It!

2009-01-11T19:12:00.000-08:00

OK, Amy tagged me. Even though I am going through a quiet time, I was intrigued about which photo would pop up. When I went to look at it, I couldn't resist posting. These are two of my five dogs---Sheena (white) & Cheyenne (brown) when they were puppies. They are sisters and were totally irresistable. We (Kirsten, Douglas & I) were just going to look at them because I love German Shepherds & always wanted one. But we already had 3 dogs (Stormie-mutt, Looka-Rodesian Ridgeback & Sable-Chocolate Lab)! The problem was I love dogs & shouldn't have even gone to look. As soon as I saw Sheena I picked her up & I was done! Kirsten was already holding Cheyenne & she was hooked too. We tried to get Douglas to pick but he couldn't choose. He wanted both of them. Luckily, I married to a wonderful husband who loves me on my good & bad days-------even if I don't always talk over some of the decisions I make!!!!! Now we have 5 dogs instead of 3. The great thing about our pups is that we ALL (Gary included) love them. All 5 of them love Gary move than the rest of us. Probably because he likes to wrestle with them & as you can see they are to big for Kirsten, Douglas or me to wrestle with! The pictures shows how big they are now but they still act like puppies. OK I've been tagged, so now its time for me to tag some people:

I Tag: Kirsten of Kash '09

Shelley of The Davis Family

Suzi of Its Just A Thought

Codie of Colorfully black and white

Tag! Y'all are it! Remember 4th file & 4th photo in that file. Start blogging! Love to ALL! Joannie

P.S. Keep praying, I'll be back soon --- just being still, quiet & listening! J

Its Quiet Time

2008-12-29T22:30:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! I apologize for not posting lately. Sometimes God allows things to go on in our lives that cause us to stop, listen & then just be quiet for a while. I'm going through one of those times. I usually have an opinion or something positive to say........but not lately. There have been a lot of tests during this holiday season & I feel that they are far from over. I have learned this holiday that perception is really amazing. God definitely made us ALL different!!!!!!!!!! (lol...maybe!) Things & people are not always what they seem to be! I would like to ask everyone to pray for me. I'm struggling with some things & people. Also, please pray for clarity for areas that have become clouded! I'll be back soon when God gives me the right words to say! Words that will not cloud your thinking but maybe clarify it! Until then..........Love & Blessings!

Ornaments Galore!

2008-12-18T20:27:00.000-08:00

If you read the previous post, you know that its been an ornament day. Tonight was not any different. I went to the 3rd annnual ornament swap party with ladies from the church. IT WAS SO MUCH FUN! We had wonderful food, a hilarious edition of "Don't forget the lyrics" (we all forget with the exception of Amy M) & the ornament steal, oh sorry swap! These ladies are all comedians in their own unique way & it was fun watching them perform tonight. God has blessed me with a GREAT church & beautiful & awesome women who are very enjoyable to be around. I know that some of you will understand, I've been in churches that some of the ladies were barely tolerable & you couldn't wait to get away from them. These ladies are truly UNBELIEVEABLE! I feel so priviledged to have them in my life. If you missed the ornament swap, you missed out on a fabulous night of fun! Kudos to the women of VRC --- as my grandmother used to say: y'all are more fun than a barrel of monkeys! Have an AWESOME Friday & I pray that you'll be in church somewhere Sunday! Love Y'all!!!!

Christmas Ornaments & Parties

2008-12-18T13:55:00.000-08:00

Today was a very busy day. Got up early, got ready, got Kirsten & Douglas up & out the door for school. Went to work, earned a little money. Christmas party day at VES for Douglas. We made tinsel ornaments by putting silver and/or gold in glass ornaments. It looks great on the tree with the lights reflecting off of it. We also painted ornaments by putting different colors of acrylic paint in glass ornaments & tilting the ball around so the paint will cover the inside of it. These really are fun & the kids can be very creative! We also made two reindeer (thumbprint) Christmas cards, one for Ms. Benton & one for them to carry home to send to someone special! Now that Douglas' party is over, I'm preparing for Sue's ornament swap party tonight! It is always fun! I enjoyed picking out which ornament(s) I wanted to bring! Kirsten & I will get to spend some fun time together like I had with Douglas earlier today! I just love Christmas & Parties & Ornaments. Its been a busy day but very fun & its not over yet! YEA!! I hope to see all of you at the party tonight! I have to run now, I still haven't pulled out any of my purple Christmas stuff & I'm inspired now after making ornaments! Love to y'all!

Children touch our hearts in unbelieveable ways

2008-12-13T08:17:00.000-08:00

My children (like all children) can drive me to the moon & back! BUT......they always touch my heart in believeable ways!!! They never cease to amaze me. One minute I think aliens have invaded their bodies & then the next minute they melt my heart. Due to visitation with his Dad, we (Douglas, Kirsten, Gary & I) celebrated Douglas' birthday (21st) early. Douglas is a comedian usually! He was once again quite funny! Kirsten (if you know her) is very impatient (I don't know where she gets it--haha)! She kept pushing Doug to finish eating dinner so he could open presents. Douglas seized the opportunity to be in control of his sissy! It was quite funny! He was also so sweet about his gifts. I love to see my children when they are happy & appreciative! It touches my heart. Like most children, they sometimes don't realize how blessed they are. They have things that they go through because of their parents being divorced! I pray that they stay focused on Jesus & walk with him!!!!!!!! We had a great time but I'm exhausted from the cleaning, cooking & then cleaning again. I hope each of you has a fun weekend. Remember to go to church Sunday it will make your day & week better! Spending time with Jesus always makes things better! Love y'all!

Busy Week No time to be sick!

2008-12-08T16:13:00.000-08:00

Its the holiday season & that makes for very busy weeks with work, holiday shopping, holiday parties, church & school functions & in our family a birthday (Doug's on the 21st) right before Christmas. With all that going on......there is no time to be sick but unfortunately those things happen sometimes. I went to the doctor today (didn't need to miss working) & it seems that I have to be on medicine & go back in 10 days. There's just one BIG problem: I am EXTREMELY sensitive to medicine & allergic to most pain medicines. Due to my health problems, my doctor prescribed a strong pain medicine. Just Great! How can I take this medicine & stay awake. So if you don't see me for a few days-----I may be in a coma! hahaha! The good news: God is in control & he will help me through this just like he sees me through everything else! I would ask that you keep me & the fam in your prayers. This is a busy time of year for all of us & I'm praying that you & your family are blessed with gifts of peace, love & joy! Have a GREAT week! I have to go now the meds are kicking in! Love Ya'll!!!

Braggin' Rights Return!!!

2008-11-29T21:55:00.000-08:00

I know that I'm not alone in celebrating the Alabama win over Auburn tonight! Not only a win but a shutout! Braggin' Rights have returned to the die hard 'Bama fans who have endured the last few years of losses! It feels good!!!!! The only problem I have are the sports analysts! They all want to discredit Alabama's record of 12 & 0 by saying that Florida will be the favorite in next Saturday's SEC Championship game. If I remember correctly these same analysts didn't even have Alabama ranked at the beginning of the season & we're #1 right now! It reminds me of a friend's favorite saying: Some people just love to hear the sound of their own voice when really they have no idea what their talking about!!!!!!! (Those people aren't just limited to sport analysts but thats a post for a different day!) I do feel for the Auburn fans, mainly because for the last few years I've experienced what they are dealing with! They will get VERY tired of the comments & jokes & very tired of saying "there's always next year"! Until next year, I'm going to enjoy this while it lasts! Its SWEET! I do still love all my family (Emily) & friends that are Auburn fans! But for tonight its RRROOOLLLLLL TIDE ROLL! love ya'll

THE GAME of the year!

2008-11-29T11:53:00.001-08:00

Today is the day that Alabama or Auburn football fans wait for all year! Football season begins with a lot of anticipation & talk! As the season progresses the anticipation mounts & for some the talk dies down. Bragging rights for one year are on the line! This day is one that over the years has been full of surprises! Sometimes it causes a fan to change sides-----that's just wrong! Win, loose or draw ---- I'm an ALABAMA fan! I have always looked forward to this day since I could say ROLL TIDE! This day divides marriages, families, churches & communities! I enjoy today because I love football but also the food of the day. I love to cook on football Saturdays anything from roast or chili to fudge, cookies or cakes. As kickoff time draws nearer, I pray that no one is injured on either team!!!!!! Also, it your year 'Bama ------- ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!!! love ya'll

One of my faves!

2008-11-26T18:19:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is THANKSGIVING! YEA! Its one of my favorite holidays! I am so thankful for so many things that there isn't enough space to list all of them. These are just a few, my Savior, my children, my husband, my family, my church, my family's health, my home, my friends, my job & the newest blessing our family has received: a new home for Joseph & Emily. They closed on a new house in Calera & will be moving tomorrow! I'm so happy for them! They were living in an apartment that was becoming extremely unsafe! Now they have a beautiful new home! It really overwhelms me how God has blessed my life------even when I wasn't living for him! I really appreciate my parents & how they raised me! I pray that my children will one day appreciate how I tried to raise them. Somedays it seems like they can't stand to be around me, but those are the days when they are being disrespectful or upset that they can't do what they want but what I or Gary say! Its ok their just children but wanting to be adults! I pray that each & everyone on you has a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING & that you realize & thank God for ALL of you blessings!
Love Ya'll!

The Gift of Laughter!

2008-11-22T21:14:00.000-08:00

A merry heart doeth good! Thank you , Lord for giving us laughter! Today & tonight have seemed like a roller coaster ride! Today was difficult for several reasons. Today was my Mom's birthday & my Mom & Dad's 60th wedding anniversary. YES 60 years!!! I had so many things to handle today that I could not go & see them! My Mom also broke her wrist almost two weeks ago & has not been able to take care of my Dad who is legally blind & almost completely deaf! I wanted to do something special for them but they are difficult to buy or do anything for! After talking with several family members, I decided to fix Thanksgiving dinner for them & take it to them Sunday along with a meat tray & fruit & cheese tray. This way my Mom won't try to cook or do something she really shouldn't!!!!! Then my daughter had a Christmas craft thing at school-almost all day! Then it was time to go buy all the food & try to prepare it for tomorrow. Before I got all of it completed, it was time to go to the Comedy Dinner Theater at church. Gary & I both were in skits! To be honest I was not looking forward to it like I had been all week. Truthfully, I didn't even want to go! THANKFULLY, I went anyway! God gave us the wonderful gift of laughter to make our lives better! I enjoyed the dinner---it was awesome! But the Martins deserve a standing ovation for their work in putting together the skits with various church members (some are quite talented)! I laughed so hard that my head & sides hurt! I needed that break!! Although it was short lived because I have been unable to get my ex-husband to return my phone calls (home & cell) or messages so that I could talk to Douglas! I try to always call & tell them good night, miss them & love them. To me, its like tucking them in before they go to sleep! I'm praying & trusting God to take care of Douglas & that I can talk to him in the morning! Like I said a roller coaster day but sprinkled with a little laughter to help me get through it! Thank you Lord for all the gifts/blessings that you give us----even the ones we fail to see as such! If your day has been like a roller coaster-----think of the corniest joke you know & laugh---a deep belly laugh or just giggle----either way, your bound to feel better!!! Have a GREAT Sunday!!!! Love Ya'll!

Missing that boy!

2008-11-22T07:14:00.000-08:00

Well, Douglas got home---YEA!!!!!! He was tired but excited about everything they got to do. I just wish he got to stay here & didn't have to go to his Dad's house! I didn't really get to enjoy having him home before he had to leave! Oh, it gets better! His Dad was supposed to pick him up at 6:00. I had somewhere I was supposed to be right after that. He got here at almost 7:00! Maybe next time he does that we will be gone! According to the lawyer, if he's not there on time, I don't have to let him go. The problem with that is his Dad would take his anger at me for doing that out on Douglas (past experience has proved that)! Its OK by the end of the day, God will have helped me with this anger & frustration & I can let it go!!!!! I just have to get in the word today & focus on my Lord & Savior!!! He ALWAYS pulls me through!!!! Sometimes it just takes longer than other times! I'm glad that Gary & I are going to the Comedy Dinner Theatre at church tonight------I really could use a good laugh!! I'll let you know how it goes! Love Ya'll

The Big Day is Almost Here!!!!!

2008-11-20T20:53:00.000-08:00

The big day is coming! I'm sure most of you think I'm talking about Thanksgiving or the Iron Bowl! Yes I'm very thankful & ROLL TIDE......BUT....that's not the day I'm looking forward to!! Tomorrow is Friday & my little boy Douglas is coming home! He has been gone to Bear Creek on a school trip since Wednesday & I HAVE MISSED HIM! He is like my other children who can drive me down the street around the corner & to the moon & back!!!! But I've missed him! He is nine, ten next month (Christmas baby-21st)! He is definitely growing up but still has his moments of being my cuddle bug! I've missed my cuddle time! We may only get five minutes a night & sometimes not at all but his laughter & smile have been missed! I don't get cuddle time with my other children anymore---I'm lucky if I get weekly phone calls from some of them. Its OK, don't worry, I understand that they have their lives to live! Its just that they are loved & missed too! Tomorrow will be Happy & Sad! Happy that Douglas is home but Sad because he will have to go to his Dad's house at 6:00. At least I will get a big hug & get to hear all about the cave, snake show & all that stuff! If you haven't guessed by now I love being a Mom! I'm also very thankful that God has blessed me with my children & the newest member of our family---my daughter-in-law--Emily! So tomorrow when your children are driving you down the street, around the corner, & etc..............remember to stop give them a hug, tell them how much you love them & be thankful! Have a GREAT Friday & remember to count all the things you have & not the things you don't have!!! Love Ya'll!

P.S. If you need another reason to be thankful, email me at jspates2005@charter.net & I'll send you the seven wonders of the world........its not what you might think!!!!

Just some Why's! with a little humor!

2008-11-13T19:41:00.000-08:00

Why do some of the sweetest/kindest women I know have jerks for husbands? Why do people want to look like others (i.e. celebrities)?? Why do people want to use foul language to talk........Do they think they sound intelligent or cool?? Why are some people so intelligent that they don't have common sense?? Why do people get angry when they have to wait in line at stores.......should everyone else step aside because they are royalty(haven't seen Jesus waiting in line in any stores I've been in)?? Why do people today want something for nothing?? Why do people not have intergrity anymore?? Why do some people think their children are perfect (Jesus is in heaven!)?? Why do telemarketers call & then mispronounce your name?? Why do children's sports coaches take the game so serious (as if they are playing!)?? Why are girls in school so catty?? Why do most men never ask for directions & then complain when their lost?? Why do cell phones try to spell what you want to text before you type it(can they read minds by the feel of your fingers)?? Why do children want to stay up late when they have to get up early....and then go to sleep early when they can sleep late?? Why do people watch scary movies & yell at the TV for the actress/actor to not do that you'll get hurt?? Why do people watch soap operas (& then tell the TV he/she is cheating on you)?? Why do people who are being interviewed/questioned say uh, ya know & etc?? Why do commentators or sports analyst feel that they have all the answers.....but they usually have never held public office or played AND coached a team?? Why do people say suck it up.......do they want you to choke on it?? Why do we do the crazy things we do??...............in the words of my brother......People are stupid & you can't fix stupid! LOL! Its not a serious blog---it was written to make you laugh. We all have our moments & if you haven't had any yet, wait until you get a little older. They come more frequently then (the voice of experience? yes)! If your not laughing, oh well, I tried. If you have a why, let me know, maybe I'll do another one! Love Ya'll!

What's your sacrifice??????

2008-11-11T07:53:00.001-08:00

Today is a day to honor all the veterans that have served or are serving, as Christians I pray that we do not forget one very important veteran and the sacrifice he made! Jesus Christ paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom! I am very military motivated, I have a son (Joseph) who served in the Marines, father (Donald) who served in the National Guard, 3 nephews who are serving (Eric-Marines, Rob-Marines, Justin-Army), with a lot of friends serving also! I am more than aware of the sacrifices that they have made & their families! I TRULY appreciate the freedoms that we have in America. I understand the sacrifices involved!!!! As much as I understand it, I don't! I can't imagine how God was able to sacrifice his son for us. I remember 9/11 & I remember all the comments that were made by ungrateful people! That didn't understand that because of our military they have the right to speak out & voice their opinions! I wonder if thats how God feels when we are ungrateful & don't accept the freedom we've been offered or don't follow Jesus & his will for our lives? Sometimes God expects us to make a few sacrifices in our lives.......do we?........and do we do it as a priviledge & with a grateful heart? I must confess.....no! I don't like making sacrifices & I pray that God with help me in this area of my Christian walk! Today as we remember all of the people (even the ones we've never met) that have made sacrifices for our peace, security & happiness...............remember the one that gave his life for our FREEDOM! Say a prayer today for all the veterans, their families & thank God for his sacrifice for us! Love Ya'll

Do you have good memories?

2008-11-07T06:31:00.000-08:00

This time of year is just so much fun to me! It reminds me of good memories that go back (way back haha) to when I was growing up. The leaves we would rake FOREVER! then destroy the piles by playing in them. The beautiful display of colors of all the trees on the Mountain! The fall festivals at school & church. The family gatherings with all that FOOD! Spending time with all the aunts, uncles, cousins you only got to see a couple of times a year. We would laugh, play football, watch football, eat, laugh, play football, watch football & then eat again!! (ALWAYS been a big football fan!) I miss those gatherings! What I miss most is that a lot of those relatives are in heaven! I wish my children had the opportunity to know them! I miss my grandmother-Nanny (my Mom's Mom) most of all! We ALWAYS had the best time at her family gatherings! She made the best sweet tea-Better than Milos!!! Those are special times but I wonder.....will my children look back one day & have fond memories of family times/gatherings/holidays!?!? I guess I'm inspired today to make this Thanksgiving season memorable for my family! I'm looking for suggestions of holiday traditions that you would share with me! We have some for Christmas but I feel that we need some for Thanksgiving! As our family grows, I want our family celebrations to be lasting memories with traditions that are carried on by my children! Any comments or suggestions are welcome! Enjoy your day-TGIF! Love Ya'll

I'm Smiling & Laughing......Are you?

2008-11-05T19:47:00.000-08:00

Well you should be laughing! Being the DEDICATED (win or loose) Alabama fan, I'm enjoying all the cute Auburn jokes that are floating around, even passed a few on from my email. But that's not the only reason I'm laughing!?!? I'm laughing because it feels good! Usually when people laugh they also smile----really big smiles! FYI-I love people (even though we're a strange lot) & I'm a people watcher. Because of that, I've watched people----A LOT! When people are talking their expressions vary from frowns, sad faces, tears, confusion, frustration, anger etc but my favorite is a smile or laughter. When you look at someone in Wal-Mart, church, grocery store or bookstores (my hangouts haha) & they smile you smile back or vice versa. My observations are: when almost everyone I've watched starts to smile their whole face lights up especially their eyes. When they laugh you can almost see some of the stress their carrying melt away. Upon discovering this revelation: I've decided that I'm going to try to laugh & smile more & more everyday. And yes I will be telling every corny joke I hear---hey if it makes you laugh, why not! Ok this is not me lying to myself or ya'll that everything is perfect & I can laugh & smile because I'm clueless about things going on around me!!! There is enough depressing things going on everywhere! But what if........each one of us tried to make one person smile & one person laugh each day????!!!! Most people are so busy/stressed or even overwhelmed that they need a bright spot in their day! This sort of goes along with random acts of kindness. Wouldn't you feel better if you made someone's day a little better. There was a movie some years back called Pay It Forward, I cried at the end but the concept was if something good happens to you make something good happen for someone else (pay it forward). Isn't that a form of sharing God's love with others?? Just some more thoughts to ponder.......as your smiling or laughing. Love Ya'll!:>

P.S. Check out these verses while you ponder this: Proverbs 15:13, 17:22, Psalms 126:2

God's Will.......Will Be Done

2008-11-05T06:16:00.000-08:00

Its OFFICIAL........the presidential election is over! Whether your candidate won or not----it doesn't matter. Its time to unite as a nation/Agree to disagree/Move on! I read on another blog last night that our hope should not be in a man even if he is the president----our hope is in a Savior who died on the cross for our sins! AMEN sister! This is the day the Lord has made & I WILL rejoice & be glad in it! My God is STILL on the throne, in control & His will will be done. If you are having questions about what his will is?????? READ THE BOOK! (Bible) I love the t-shirt that reads "Don't make me come down there!" ---GOD Maybe some of us need him to???? In trying to discipline/teach values/morals/principles, I use this questions with Douglas & Kirsten sometimes........If Jesus were standing here would he be happy with how your acting? Well, my friends, if Jesus were in the room with you right now----Would he be pleased with your actions??? Just something to ponder today as you hopefully plan to make your way to church tonight. My prayers are for you to be blessed today!!! Love ya'll!

P.S. When Americans were upset after 9/11, the local church couldn't hold all the people coming in the doors. If your that upset about this nation & the possible direction we're headed........Why not talk to God about it???? Just another something to ponder!

Its Thanksgiving Season

2008-11-04T09:38:00.000-08:00

We all have different seasons that we love. These can be the actual seasons or times of the year when special things happen like football (#1 - ALABAMA-yipee!), or Spring (cleaning, flowers, Easter) or my favorite Fall. The trees are full of beautiful colors, football, sweaters/turtlenecks, the smells of apples, pumpkins, clove, & cinnamon, deep fried turkey, sweet potato casseroles, pecan pies(hungry now?) & THANKSGIVING!!! I love holidays-no matter if its just Friendship Day(yes, I consider that a Holiday!). Thanksgiving to me is one of the least stressful of the holidays. There are no requirements but a grateful heart & we should ALL have countless blessings to be appreciative of!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love cooking at Thanksgiving. I love trying to get in touch with all the family & friends that I can reach & try to catch up on how their lives are going! Sometimes we get so busy that we don't stay in touch like we really want to. I have always used Thanksgiving to try to reconnect with everyone! There are always wonderful family & church gatherings/celebrations with more food than you can eat in a week. The reason I feel that Thanksgiving is the best holiday is because I have so much to be thankful for. God has blessed me beyond belief!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It started before I was born. He chose wonderful parents for me, great brothers & sisters that even though they picked on me (the baby of the family) NO BODY else could. I always felt very protected---not only by my parents but by my siblings also. That feeling has carried over into my adult life. They are always there for support sometimes I have wished that they could or would do more but I've not walked in their shoes so...... God blessed me with 3 awesome children. He lead me through difficult times but only so his plan & purpose could be fulfilled! God put awesome Christians in my path when I wasn't walking with him to show me the way back home. He brought into mine & my children's lives a Christian man who would show us unbelieveable, overwhelming love!!!!!!! That man (Gary) came with a wonderful church & family! These are only a FEW of the things that I have to be thankful for. I would have to give my life story to explain why I am appreciative of all the things in my life right now!! But back to the Thanksgiving holiday, this season makes me specifically, everyday thank God in detail for ALL the blessings, trials, tests, races, etc. The reason that I thank God is because they have made me more thankful & have strengthened, stretched & sustained me in a world that most days feels that its gone mad! So............this holiday be aware of ALL the things you have to be thankful for. Whether your particular candidate wins or looses, God is STILL on the throne, in control & His will......Will be done! If your reading this, I pray that God blesses you/yours this holiday & throughout the rest of this year & into the next!
Love Ya'll

Kinks, Conflicts ==== Faith Tests

2008-10-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

If your like me, I try to start my day with the attitude: This is the day that the Lord has made, I WILL rejoice & be glad in it. This rule applies even if its hectic/busy/stressful or whatever! Today is also Wednesday, which means church & getting to hear a fresh word from God. The problem is today I'm struggling with this attitude. I'm facing legal issues related to my children that I thought the attorney I contacted had already addressed.......I thought! (Some days it doesn't pay to think!haha) They have not been, the deadline is tomorrow & I am now at the last hour trying to find an attorney to handle them. Please pray that God will enable me to get things handled before the deadline! I know that even in the midst of our problems, He is STILL on the throne & in control of everything!! I just need a few prayers to go along with all of ours that deadlines will be met! I'm a lion when it comes to my children & I want the best for them but in that I also want it to be in God's will!!! If your a momma, you can truly understand this feeling!!! Enjoy your evening!

God brings us together

2008-10-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

I should not be amazed at God but sometimes I am! I was born & raised in the South, where most of us are related to one another ----either by marriage, church or being neighbors----Its just a Southern thang! We consider most everyone family! Yesterday I learned that the WONDERFUL teacher my son has in school is someone that is from the same area I am. Granted neither of us live there now but our families still do. And our families have known one another for years! We have been brought together in God's AWESOME plan. All of us in the world can find some type of common bond with others--especially if we look for it. She is just another blessing that has been brought into my life & I'm so thankful!!!! If your reading this thank a teacher. I had GREAT teachers in school & my children have been blessed to have some AWESOME ones too. Also, be thankful for the people God brings into your life-------even if some of them turn out to be difficult to deal with!! Maybe they are in your life right now to see the love of Jesus?!?!?!?!?!? Try to be that shining light to a dark & dying world as we're commanded & maybe they won't be difficult forever?!?!?!?!?!? Enjoy your day & Thank a teacher for their service just like we plan to thank our military in the next few weeks!!! HIP HIP HOORAY for TEACHERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My Favorite Day of the Week

2008-10-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

Sundays are such SPECIAL days. I am very family oriented. On Sundays, I get to spend the day with my Awesome church family and related family. Our church has an amazing staff of ministers who always bring a word straight from God. (Somedays I wonder if they read our mail or have spy devices in our home-haha) The truth is.....the words they bring make you search your heart. It can be painful at times but its always for our benefit!!!! After morning services, we enjoy a wonderful meal with my relatives. The only problem with the day is my relatives don't enjoy the church services with us. Its an issue that we pray about a lot! You can be a Christian & not go to church but my question is why not?????? Yes the church is full of us humans (who aren't perfect!) who will say & do stupid things usually before we think it through. & sometimes even if we have thought it through. But the good news is God forgave us of our sins & we are obligated to forgive others just as God forgave us. ANYWAY.......if your reading this pray for me & my family that everyday will become like Sundays where we are growing closer & closer to God & hearing all the messages he's sending us ----- especially the hugs that he sends us in the little things that we don't always realize, such as rainbows, sunrises, sunsets, butterflys, birds singing, playful puppies, children laughing, smiles, kisses, & the list of hugs goes on & on. Also pray for our church because God really has an awesome plan for taking back our community & using our church to start that process. We as members have to be willing to allow God to change us & use us for his purpose!!! Have A GREAT Monday & take your Sunday with you all week!!!!!

Alabama Football

2008-10-25T18:52:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like ALABAMA football! It starts with tradition. There is a tradition of great players & coaches. Players that have gone on to play professional and then even coach teams. Tradition also means winning. One reason that there have been so many different coaches since the Bear! If you can't win games--you are replaced. If your not a football fan, consider following AL football--you can really get wrapped up. Being born & raised in the south---I understand it...grew up watching games that Bear Bryant coached. ALWAYS been an AL fan-win or lose-championship or not----prefer the championsip days though! I love football--the Friday night school games are good but Saturdays in the fall are the BEST! My husband is a big football fan also, we enjoy watching the games. I enjoy seeing him watch the games. His work schedule prevents him from being able to see all the games. When he does get to watch---its fun! Lots of good food, family & football-that makes for a great Saturday! Enjoy your Saturdays more than you can imagine----watch & become an ALABAMA football fan! ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!!!

pups!

2008-10-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

puppy girls.

cheyenne&sheena.

2008-10-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

sable girl

Blessings, tests, struggles or what?

2008-10-24T19:46:00.000-07:00

Somedays are good - some are ok. I'm so richly blessed with my family, church and friends. My biggest problem is sometimes I struggle with the "why" of different things that happen. They don't appear to be blessings, not even tests or struggles.....so what are these things. To explain, my younger children endure things that infuriate me. Why would you tell a child that they will never be successful because of where they live. Why would you let a child go w/o 3 meals a day, watch PG13/R movies & stay up late at night 1 or 2am. I know that God is on the throne & he's in control but my momma instincts kick in & I want to protect my children. I've had to learn with my older sons (Joseph & Justin) that sometimes they have to go through things to bring them to where God wants them. I can understand that they are adults. But with Kirsten & Douglas.....they are still minors & I'm supposed to protect them. God entrusted them into my care for a short time & I want to make sure that they have been taught/equipped with what they need to be servants for Christ. If you read this, please remember my children in your prayers....also pray that God will continue to give Gary & I the strength & discernment of how to handle these situations. Thanks!

2008-10-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

Today is a great day...It's the day the Lord has made. So what if it's raining or windy! You can accomplish many things today. Today has unlimited potential----use it to your advantage. Enjoy the moments of today for they will never come again. You can choose to see the good in today or the bad. You can be productive no matter where you are. Our purpose is to show God's love & I'm sure there are people around you that need to see it & receive it. Share the love today! You will feel better for it & probably so will the person you share it with. We serve an AWESOME God that people need to know. He's there for us in the good & bad times, closer than a brother/sister/mom/dad. He loves us even when we are unloveable. You can't get better than that!! ENJOY today.........whatever the day holds for you!