Friday, December 26

Blessed

We have been so blessed this year! Patrick's new job is working out very well. He is so much happier than he used to be. He doesn't carry the weight of the world with him anymore. It's such a nice change.

Christmas this year, financially, has also been a blessing. We were able to pay all our bills and buy all our Christmas gifts without going over budget. Almost every item we bought was on sale, even the planned purchases! It was perfect. God has been very good to us. He is a good God.

And then there's the reason for the season. I have really been preaching this year about keeping Jesus the center of Christmas. It's not about gifts to each other, but about a deity in heaven choosing to come to earth as a child and ultimately dying on a cross. And He did all that for us! I am indeed loved!

Wednesday, December 17

The first snow...

We had our first snow for our area. The kids have been out of school for three days now!! If you live up north it probably seems a little weird to close down just for a little bit of snow, but that how it works in the south. I have always imagined that we just don't get enough bad weather to justify having the equipment to clear the roads. I don't really know though, it's just what I have conjured up to justify their actions. :)

In the midst of all this I didn't realize we were getting so close to Christmas vacation. My kids get out Friday. Our Christmas activities will begin on Sunday and before you know it we'll be headed to Branson, MO for our own vacation. We enjoy spending time in Branson, we haven't been there in three years so we're all looking forward to it.

Merry Christmas to each of you!

Saturday, November 29

Junk

In preparation for decorating for Christmas we needed to get some junk out of the way. So yesterday was spent reorganizing and getting rid of junk.

I have discovered that I have become way to forgiving when it comes to stuff in my house. I pretty well let the entire family do what they want with whatever they want. They never put their junk in their rooms. I decided this past week, that I have had enough. I personally declared war. Of course this means everyone thinks I'm being a hag, which is ultimately my fault, but they're just going to have to get over it. :-) Their stuff is going to their room.

I'm sooooooo tired of my house being junked up. Of course, we can make the same application for our spiritual lives. When we finally get sick of our lives being junked up, we declare war and do some serious cleaning out. Maybe you need to declare war with me!!

Friday, November 28

Decorations Everywhere!!!


Yeah!!! I'm so excited!!! We get to decorate for Christmas. It's soooo much fun. Today we'll be dragging out all the Christmas decorations and putting them in place. I've been working on the church decor since Monday and we're almost finished there. Pastor John always has to put up with my brilliant ideas. I come up with something and he gets to figure out how to make it happen. Poor Pastor John.....


So on with the show....lucky for Pastor John he's off today, too bad for husband cause that means he gets to figure out how to make all my bright ideas look great. It's sooooo much fun decorating for Christmas......

Thursday, November 27

It's Thanksgiving!!

You know what that means? It means Christmas is just around the corner!!! Yea!!!! I'm so excited.

Now, far be it for me to downsize the Thanksgiving Holiday. And it's not that I'm not thankful. I am. I have lots and lots to be thankful for. It's just that Christmas thrills me. Like way down deep inside. I love the Christmas spirit.

Christmas is the one season of the year that is focused on Jesus. I know, there are many out there who would argue that "they're trying to take Christ out of Christmas". But whatever with their negative outlook. So what if "they" are? Whoever "they" is!!

"They" cannot take away the Christmas spirit. You know, that feeling you get when you watch a family who is down and out get blessed. That feeling when you walk in a room decked out with Christmas decorations. That feeling when the family sits down to read the Christmas story. And what about the feeling when you think about Santa and what he represents? (no, we don't believe Santa is real, but in my opinion Santa is a real part of Christmas!!) And of course there's the feelings that come with having the family home, together in one place. There are so many things to be thankful for during the Christmas season.

So, for me, Christ will never be taken out of Christmas. He is Christmas. Without Jesus, it's just another day, just another gift.

What's one of your favorite "feelings" at Christmas?



Here's another one of mine. I love to spend Christmas at the lake. I always hope to be snowed in the day after we arrive and then let it be melted off by the time we leave!! :-) All the Christmas lights sparkling off the water. The snow glistening. Fireplace glowing. Ahhhhh...what a lovely time of year....

Friday, November 21

Too much fun...

What an incredibly exciting day. I just don't know how much more exciting it could get. I just found out that we have three choices to provide heat to our house this year.


Repairs to our more than 20 year old unit--$1200


Brand new unit--$4750



Space heaters--$400


Needless to say, my husband is totally stressed out about this whole situation. But hey it could be worse. We could not have options at all. We could be going without heat all together right?

So what would you do?

Thursday, November 20

Amazing

Some time ago, I suggested a blog to my readers, In The Throne Room. Today I just wanted to say how this woman, Gigi, amazes me. She has such a sweet spirit, it just emanates from her blog. I don't know how she accomplishes this, but she does!

She recently lost her husband to cancer (just over a week ago). And although she is not saying much in her blogs, that same sweet spirit is still there. My spouse is still living, so I have no idea what she must be experiencing, but I can try to imagine the heartache she must feel. And yet even in the midst of what I assume must be very painful she continues to exude peace.

Of course I know she finds her peace by looking to God and believing his word. I also know not everyone in this world does that. I was looking at some of the atheist blogs yesterday and happen to read about someone dying and the post/comments were so bitter and bland. Even though an atheist wouldn't even consider looking to what they call our imaginary friend. I am so thankful I choose to believe in the One True God. There is nothing in all the world that could convince me He doesn't exist and He doesn't love me. I believe my friend Gigi, even in her time of sorrow, would say the same thing.

Have a great day!

Gigi--we are praying for you!!

Tuesday, November 18


For those you who don't know, my husband and I are Sr. Pastors, and this past Sunday was Pastor Appreciation. Now, I know, you're saying November?? Huh? Pastor Appreciation is in October!! But that's okay. We were actually the ones to postpone it. Events that were out of the control of anyone but God didn't make Pastor Appreciation very appropriate during the month of October for us at Gateway Church!! So, we postponed it until this past Sunday. :-)

It was really nice, several people gave us cards expressing their appreciation as well as gift cards for us to go on a date (which is ALWAYS a great deal!). They also spent time during the Sunday morning service taking turns passing the microphone and those who wanted to, could tell us why they appreciate us. As our associate said, it doesn't take much to make me boo-hoo, but Pastor Pat crying, that a whole different deal. He said their goal was to make him cry as well (hehe), and cry he did. It's very moving and humbling to listen to person after person talk about how God has used us to affect lives in a positive way.

Thank you to each one who expressed their appreciation in any way big or small.
We love you.

It didn't work out so well!!

My son's team ended up losing their final game. So they are officially runner-up in our conference. But it's all good. My son just enjoys playing. He did jamb his thumb and he's been fussing about it, but I'm not too worried. Basketball is around the corner and I have no doubt that a little thumb injury won't be remembered too much longer!!

Saturday, November 15

My oldest son...

My son's football team has progressed to their final game for the season. They even call it the Superbowl! I think the name is ridiculous, but hey, whatever, it's nothing to get worked up over.

Logan does a great job in his position. He's a real asset to the team. I very proud of him for working hard and giving it his best effort. Here in our town they start playing football in the 2nd grade. Patrick and I feel that is entirely too young to start playing football, so we didn't allow him to begin playing until he was in the 5th grade. Considering this is only his 2nd year to play he's really doing a great job.


Good luck to the team and I'll let you know how it goes!

Friday, November 14

Finally...

We are finally getting my house painted. It's been in the middle of the project for a over a year now. (What can I say?) :)

We are to the point of painting the trim, which of course is the time consuming part, but if the weather will hold out for us we'll get the job done next week.

Thanks to all who have had a part in this project, even though it's taken forever to get it done, we appreciate your help now and all the way back to when we first started. Your sacrifice of time and effort hasn't gone unnoticed!

Wednesday, November 12

I am.......SUPER MOM! ! ! !

Yes, that's right. Just look to me, I can do it all. And above all else I have perfect children. If only you could all be like me....




...POP! BOOM! BANG!...




That was Utopia exploding. :-o If only I could be Super Mom.

Today I struggled with doing the right thing. I believe in setting boundaries for my kids and so all my children have boundaries. Today I wanted to bend the boundaries to protect my poor precious perfect child who was obviously being singled out. Oops...slipping again! :-) So yes, I wanted to bend the rules, help my kid out. You know, step in and do what my child couldn't do. It was all I could do, to not step in and "help out". All it would have taken was a little encouragement from the wrong voice.

But thankfully, I had good counsel, and opted to keep my mouth shut and just get through it. My child will get to learn a valuable lesson on "Life's not Fair 101" and I get to learn that teaching my child "I will fix it for him/her" isn't really helping them at all. It hurts them in the long run. In the long run, when my child can think through their problems themselves and be proactive I will be busting buttons because of how proud I am of my "independent, selfless, and mature" children.

Monday, November 10

The new job

It's been three months now since Patrick started his new job. He has traveled more the last three months than he's traveled probably in the last year maybe year and a half!! That has been hard on me. I have never liked it when he travels, but I have learned to accept it. And yet, it still gets under my skin when he has to be gone so much!!
But on to other things. Patrick is very happy and that makes me happy. :-) Seating Concepts is very good to Patrick, and for that I am quite pleased. In December I get to go to Chicago with Patrick for three days. He will work in the office, I will chill at the hotel!! The office Christmas party is scheduled during Patrick's time there, so I am looking forward to that. I will get to meet the other wives and build some relationships there. It should be fun.

Of course, I always love Christmas. Emotionally, it's such a warm and cozy time, and I love that. There's nothing like Christmas time!!

Wednesday, November 5

Pics

I finally posted the pics on my daughters broken nose go here to see them!!

I hate politics...

have I said that before? I think I have!

Just in case any of you out there forgot this about me, I thought I'd remind you!!

:-)

Monday, November 3

Here we are at a turning point for our nation. The results of tomorrows election will tell all. I have a peace about my future no matter which man is elected. Although I have a firm opinion about which one I believe should be elected, I know that regardless of the outcome the One True God is in control.

There is a peace in knowing the One True God personally, that those who do not know Him can never find that peace. I invite you today to get know Him. Let Him inside your innermost being. You may surprised at the outcome!


(If you don't know Jesus Christ personally just pray and believe the following prayer!)


Jesus, I know that everyone has sinned, and I am a part of that. Please forgive me of my sins. I believe you died on the cross for me. I accept your gift of salvation. Be the Lord of my life beginning right now. Amen.


Now tell someone (you can even send me an email :->) and begin enjoying a life that has a peace that goes beyond our human understanding!

Monday, October 27

Its been a rough weekend

Our Music Pastor's mother was killed in a car accident Friday afternoon. His daughter Kelly and her friend were in the car as well. The friend is okay other than a small abrasion and terribly sore. Kelly was released from the hospital Sunday. She has a concussion. This is the second one in less than six months for her. She is very, very sore. Moving even a little is quite a job for her.

From what the family is being told by those who witnessed the accident, we are blessed to even have Kelly with us. The family has seen the car and took pictures and it's really messed up. Kelly's quite a determined young lady, she pushes herself to do more and more each day. I'm sure her recovery will go quickly. She's already off her pain pills except at night time and the night time dose is by mom's choice not hers!! :-) She's a remarkable young lady, God is definitely watching over her.

My heart goes out to our Music Pastor, he lost his father to a farming accident (I believe) about 17-18 years ago, and now his mother to an accident as well. I have not lost either parent and I have no idea how it must feel to lose even one parent, much less both. I cannot imagine what he must be going through. Pray for him if you happen to think of this situation, I have no doubt your prayers would be appreciated.

The funeral will be this Thursday at 10:00 and then the burial will be in his home town a few hours away at 3:00. Thursday will be a long and emotional day for the family. Please keep all of them in your prayers.

Thursday, October 9

My poor daughter

We went to regionals and she got nailed in the face with a softball. Sadly, by our catcher, who is a senior, is really good, and has a really strong arm. She felt terrible, poor girl. Yes, it's broken, but thankfully it's still straight!! Everything that could have went wrong, DIDN'T!! We are very blessed. So just swelling and bruising and pain. It definitely could have been worse.

It's been right at 7 days now, today the bruising is visibly starting to leave. She's backing off on the Tylenol dosage. I'll have to give her 2 thumbs up. She was a real trooper through the whole thing!

As soon as I figure out how to get the pictures off my precious little iPhone and onto my computer I have them posted for you!! :-/


I finally figured out how to download pics to my computer. Then it took me forever to remember to post them!!






The first one is at the emergency room after the game. The second one is the day after. The third one is several days later with the bruising at its worst point!

Saturday, September 27

What's happening? Does anyone know?

I have just been slammed over the past few weeks. Of course if you keep up with me you know I'd much rather be busy than sitting around with nothing to do. So although it's been crazy, it is my preferred lifestyle. :)

For those of you wondering what happening with me and new found life with politics, as you may know, the petition to request a grand jury got thrown out because we didn't have enough signatures. (big oops on our attorney's part) And although the "other side" reportedly had a victory celebration because they had "won", "winning" apparently was not enough. During this last week there was an investigation by the DA's office. To my knowledge six of the petition carriers were accused of misdeeds and turned in to the DA's office. I was included in the six. It's my understanding we were being accused of either forging signatures or allowing people to forge signatures. Of course the accusations are completely and totally without standing, but the accusations do reinforce the opinion that people wouldn't sign the petition because they were afraid there would be a retaliation. It's a little hard to believe his statement in the newspapers that he "holds no malice" toward any of us. Sure looks like malice to me, but hey, that's just my opinion!!

So, for now, I continue to support our school and other school board members by doing whatever I can to help out. Of course, I understand our school and administration are not perfect, but please point me to someone in this world who is. None of us are perfect, we all make mistakes. Too bad we all can't just admit our faults and be honest with ourselves and others....

Thursday, September 18

iPhone


I got an iPhone yesterday. It's so cool. I love it. I've been looking around and shopping for a smartphone and I finally decided on the iPhone. It does so many really cool things, I am thrilled to have it. I was kidding with my staff about when it came in I would be a walking office. And yep! it's true. I am a walking office. Isn't that cool!!!


Okay, so maybe I'm a little overboard about my new toy..I mean tool...but it is really exciting!!

Tuesday, September 16

School of Ministry

We had our first inquiry yesterday about the school of ministry. I was so excited when I hung up the phone!! (Yes...I know...it's the little things in life) :-) We also went to a minister's meeting last night and found out there are lots of people out there who are talking about enrolling with us.

I, of course, wanted this school of ministry to be "successful", but having the reality of people actually calling and talking about their plans to enroll is unbelievable! It just seems too good to be true!!

It's funny how sometimes when you're doing exactly what God wants you to do, everything seems so simple!!!

Tuesday, September 9

My daughter...

...this isn't actually a picture of her, but we have pics that look identical to this one. I almost didn't post it as it doesn't really carry very good memories. It was a very difficult time in our life having to face the choices we had to face.

For those of you who know us personally, some of this will be a bit redundant, but for those you who don't know, let me share just a little with you.



We have four children, our second child was born with heart disease. She had open heart surgery at 9 days old to correct Transposition of the Great Vessels. Basically that means they cut off the artery and vein going to heart, criss-crossed them and sewed them back on. She has done very well since then. Basically leading a normal life.



At age 11 (literally on her 11th b-day!) she had to have a pacemaker put in. This came about over a two week period. We were in complete shock since she has had little to no issues since her surgery as a baby. But over the past four years we have adjusted to the pacemaker and for the most part she still has very little issues.

Until today....

Her heart apparently skipped a few beats and then her pacer kicked in to correct the issue and she must have "felt" it all happen. She called me from school to let me know what was going on, I called her pacemaker clinic. We did a download from her pacemaker for the clinic to look at, and ultimately ended up at the ER!

Of course, it's kind of like taking your car to the mechanic, it never messes up once you've arrived at the shop. Well, she had 3 more episodes after talking to me on the phone the first time, and once we got to the hospital, nothing. So we stayed for a few hours while they ran blood test and took x-rays, and then sent us home because they couldn't find anything.



I'm thankful there was nothing to find. Quite frankly it could have been really bad. We are so very blessed that our daughter is in good health. God's hand of protection has been on her the past 15 years, and I have no doubt he will continue to cover her. I am so thankful to be a part of his kingdom.





Thank you God for the blessing of a child!

Sunday, September 7

Good choices or God choices


We have been working really hard at getting out of debt. Although we still have a ways to go. I am thrilled to report we have eliminated one of our monthly bills. We took our 2007 refund and paid it off. I was so excited about the whole thing, I didn't even wait for Patrick to get home from Hawaii. I just called the creditor and took care of it.

Now we are focused on our vehicles. We have about 18 months left on both of them. My goal is to have one of them paid off in 12 months, and the other in 16 months. That means Jan of 2010 I should be reporting to you that we have both cars paid for. I think that's very doable!!

In all of this babbling please don't forget who makes this possible. Everything we have belongs to God. He allows us to keep 90% of what we earn and use it in whatever way we choose. God is blessing our choices and we are focused on continuing to make "God" choices!!

Have a great week....

Tuesday, September 2

Hawaii





My husband returned from Hawaii Sunday. He's really tired. The jet lag was pretty hard on him. He was actually on the island of Hawaii, the pics are a few shots of the sights he saw while driving. He was amazed at the diversity of the landscaping, these are all from the same island!

Thursday, August 28

Check this out...

I came across this blog and wanted to share it with all my readers. Don't know much about Gigi, but I'm very impressed with her sight. Click here to check it out! I think you'll like it too...

btw...be sure to have your sound on. She has an excellent music selection playing while you read...very refreshing....I'm actually listening to it while typing this post!

Wednesday, August 27

Oklahoma Teen Challenge


Today I visited the new women's center in Tulsa. It was formally a locally run women's facility, but not associated with Teen Challenge. The transition just happened so everyone is still trying to get their feet underneath them, but as it stands right now, things are looking really good.

The facility itself is an older building, but meets the needs of the center very well. The new director, Karen Coon, runs a tight ship and is doing an excellent job of getting all the details in order. Karen is a friend of mine, and I'm happy to have her friendship. This facility is a long awaited dream for her and I share in her excitement to see it's fulfillment!

May the favor of the Lord rest on you Karen. :-)


Tuesday, August 26




Here's an update on the XA house. The rock is finished, stairs are built and painting has begun. And no, Pastor John and I didn't do all the work, there was help from the area AG churches. Each doing what they can. It's going to look great when we're finished.

Monday, August 25

My husbands new job

It has been two full weeks since we arrived home from Chicago. Patrick is doing great and is very happy. We are working in the same office space, that is also going well. The only obstacle we are having to overcome is phone calls. My husband has been blessed with a booming voice and it's a little difficult to have a conversation or make a phone call at the same time he's talking on the phone!!

But, with that said, things are going really well. I am happy to see my husband happy. He enjoys getting up and going to work again. I am blessed to have such an excellent man by my side!

Saturday, August 23

Rain, Rain, please don't Go Away!!

I am so happy it's raining!! We were supposed to do a community outreach today. But quite frankly, I'm tired. I just really wanted the day off. I was prepared to get up and go do what we had committed to do, but when I heard the thunder and the rain, deep down inside I was thrilled. Instead of getting up I stayed in bed for an extra hour and half. I was soooooo happy!!

I'm not worried about our outreach, the work will still be there after the rain passes. So today's schedule will go like this, I slept in, we're going to play Settlers of Catan with the girls, and later I think I'll start reading a book I've had for several weeks and haven't even cracked open. It's going to be a great day off!!

Friday, August 22

Update on NEO XA





Pastor John is working away cutting rebar to anchor the landscaping timbers. You can't see it very well, but the red patio pavers spell out XA (which means Chi Alpha). As you can see the porch is completely gone now and new lighter color rock is the new rock we needed to add. After we get the "XA" leveled and perfected, we'll add a thin layer of the new rock over the remaining area and get it all looking the same. A different group of workers is coming in on Saturday and they are going to build the stairs, put the replacement siding up, and start scraping to prepare for the paint. I can't wait to post the final pics. It's going to look AWESOME!!

Thursday, August 21

Gateway School of Ministry

My husband and I have long desired to help out people who have been called into the ministry after starting a career and family. The reason we are so passionate about this is because that's exactly what happened to us! God did not call us into the ministry until we were 30 years old and had three children. Receiving our credentials has been a lot of hard work and a lot of discipline.

Recently, one of our Assemblies of God programs has made some changes and because of those changes we are going to be able to offer the credentialing process in a format that will be so much easier than what we did. I am so excited about it, I couldn't even sleep!! I woke up at 5:00 this morning thinking about all the things I needed to get done in relationship to this new avenue!!

Today I will start calling the churches to let them know about our program. I can't hardly wait!!!!


Saturday, August 16

The Giant Has Been Slayed

(funeral music begin here)

The tragic death of a foe many of you are too well acquainted with died today. It was a slow death. Painfully endured by digging 24" footer holes, moving landscaping rocks, and removing damaged siding. Mr. Fear, also known as the Intimidator, had resided with so many people it is impossible to list his former residences.

The tabloids are still saying "He Lives", but I know that's not true. I saw him die myself. There is no return. Mr. Fear will not be coming back to life.

(funeral music ends) (casket closes)
(Funeral Director ends service)

Friday, August 15

Facing My Giant

Ever since I found out I needed a blood transfusion I have been struggling with physical labor. Before I knew I was low on blood I thought I was just lazy and lacked motivation. I now realize there was much more to it. Therefore, it has brought me to a point of psychological conflict. I used to just keep pushing and do whatever needed to be done. Now I hold back and doubt whether I can do the job.

So an area ministry, NEO XA, needed some work done on a home they use for their meetings and outreach. I volunteered myself and our Associate Pastor to tear off the front porch. (He always appreciates me planning his schedule for him!) But my purpose was this. I knew I couldn't do the work myself, but I was bound and determined to be a part of the work and get past this stupid mind hurdle that keeps telling me I don't have the strength to work. That's hogwash! As I stated in my earlier blog, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. So yesterday I helped Pastor John with tearing off a porch and putting in new support beams. I helped dig a hole, carried lumber, and did a few odds and ends. I didn't work very long, but I did work. And I was help to Pastor John, not a hindrance.


Saturday, I will face my giant again. My plan is to kill the stupid thing and put it to rest!

Monday, August 11

I did it!

Yesterday I preached a narrative sermon. I was so proud of myself!

Considering it was the first one I did, I thought I did well, but I know I have tons of room for improvement. So guess what my next sermon type will be????? You guessed it. Narrative. You're so good!! I am happy with my progress. I did an actual exegesis. That really impressed myself too!! (I know, it doesn't take much :))

I know this is a bunch of preacher mumbo jumbo. But I'm really excited about my accomplishment. It was something new and I conquered it. I have a small margin to boast about!!
I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME!

Friday, August 8

Injured Reserve List

Don't ask me how, but I hurt my foot!! I was doing so good too. Not only did this wreck my plans for exercising today, but it stopped our plans for going to down town Chicago. We may try to go this evening. It depends on when Patrick gets off work today. I'm not terribly disappointed though. It's not like this will be the last time we ever come to Chicago. There will be plenty of opportunities to see the sites in the years to come!

Thursday, August 7

Thursday

So far, so good. Today I got up and exercised with Patrick. He fussed at me because I kept talking to him!! He asked me if I always talk when I exercise, I told him yes, if there's someone to talk to!! (Duh, I am female!)

On a different note, Patrick got some of his new toys yesterday. I know they are commonly referred to as tools, but I am certain they are toys! Not only did his new company get him a laptop and a phone, but they got all the cool accessories to go with them. Patrick is really excited, and I am happy for him. Things are going very well. I hope this honeymoon period last for a long time!!

Wednesday, August 6

Day two in Joliet

I have finished this mornings walking. Now I'm off to get ready for the big meeting. Today the children and I get to see Patrick's new office and plant. We are all a little nervous. Of course I want my children to show these people what truly wonderful children we have, I'm sure they'll do fine!

Last night we went to an Italian restaurant named Baci's (bawch-eez). they served us the best Chicago pizza I remember having. It was excellent food and tons of it. Thankfully we have refrigerators in the room keeping the pizza cold until supper tonight!!

That's it for today....check in tomorrow!

Tuesday, August 5

Exercise

I decided to hold myself accountable to the world this week while on vacation!! I commit to exercising on my regular schedule. That means tues - fri walking for 30 mins. Weights are a little harder because the machines are different, but walking on the treadmill isn't a problem. There are 2 treadmills plus a bike and elliptical trainer.

So, I've already finished today's. I'll let you know from day to day if I accomplish my goal!

Monday, August 4

The First Day

Patrick's first day at his new job was today. He was ready to get there is about all I can say! After 7 1/2 hours of driving and then staying the night and driving 2 1/2 more, he was more than prepared to go to work!!

The children and I on the other hand were more than ready to start our vacation! The accommodations are wonderful (big huge thanks to Patrick's new company). They let us check in really early, therefore the children have already been swimming and are now vegging in front of the TV. They plan to go swimming again later, which is fine with me.

It is cooler up this way, but it's still hot. At least the air conditioners can actually keep up and for that I'm thankful!

Not sure how much I'll be blogging this week, but no need to worry about me, I'll just be relaxing by the pool!!

Friday, August 1

Question


So if the bible tells you not to go to bed angry and you're totally ticked off, does that mean you just don't sleep for the night????


Thursday, July 31

Go! Go! Go!

Wow, was I busy today! I had a nice little schedule planned out. Study during the morning hours, then break for lunch with a friend, then off to take care of politic stuff in the afternoon, home by 5:00.

Yea well, that didn't quite work out.... Instead I didn't get to do any studying, I did politics from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. I drove 45 miles to get my van dropped off for some maintenance work, then 65 miles to go do politics, then back 65 miles to get my van, and then the return trip of 45 miles back home. Meanwhile, I cancelled lunch with my friend and ended up skipping lunch all together because I was busy with the politics stuff. Whew!




Next week we will go with Patrick to his new job's office. Even though Patrick will be working, I am looking forward to some time off with no e-mail, no computers, no drama, no time restraints. Just reading a book by the pool after a lovely stroll on the treadmill! (Thank goodness it's cooler up north than it is down here. I'll be thinking of you while I'm relaxing in 85 degree weather. Hope you enjoy your 98 degree weather here at home!!)

Tuesday, July 29

Bad News


It was all over the papers today. The election board went through the signatures and counted 59 signatures as not registered. Then later that afternoon came back and said they had cross referenced some of them and that 5 more were counted as registered. That means we are still 12 short of the needed 500. So off to work we go trying to figure out what we can do.

Meanwhile today is an election day which means the election board is busy with that. So it will be Thursday before we can do anything with it. So for now we wait....



Have I mentioned to you before how much I HATE waiting???????

Monday, July 28

My husbands new job

I'm really excited for my husband. After 20 years with one job he is moving on to a bigger (and hopefully better) company. It is in the same industry and he will continue doing sales. Actually he will only be doing sales, which will be a big change for him. It is a welcome change, but change none the less.

We will leave next week to visit his new work place as a family. The children and I will get to see the plant and meet his co-workers. The bad news for Patrick is he will get to work the rest of the week, while the children and I will be vacationing!!

I am looking forward to the time off and I am looking forward to new beginnings. I'm sure I will be sharing more as time goes on.

Sunday, July 27

Transparency

Today was a difficult day for my husband and I. We recently had Martha Tennison and her husband, Don at our church. During one of our many conversations, Martha and Don corrected Patrick and I for withholding personal information from the congregation. So today, we walked in obedience to our elders and talked with the congregation.

The two areas that we don't discuss openly is team ministry, and salary. Withholding the salary part, well, that's easy, because we're certainly not in this for the money, so its easy to not talk about the money. The team ministry part? Well, it just never occurred to us that we needed to address it. We have always operated as a team and its normal for us. Martha asked if we had ever addressed it from behind the pulpit, we told her no, and she told us we needed to. Patrick was actually the one who did the majority of the talking, I can't really tell you what he said, because I was so uncomfortable with what we were talking about. My insecurities were determined to push their way through, but I kept fighting and pushed them back to the pit where they came from!
The salary part, well that's a whole different story. Over the last year and half we have chosen not to take over $14,000 of salary due to us simply because it's not in the best interest of the finances of the church. Over the past eight years we have used our salary money to re-invest in the church buying equipment, decorations, or any other needed item for ministry. We also personally paid for retreats and gifts for leadership in the church. None of this was done to promote ourselves, it was just what we chose to do. Martha and Don helped us realize that the enemy of our souls is using our silence against us.

So, this morning we exposed ourselves and we stand on the scripture John 8:32 (KJV), "You will know the truth and the truth will make you free." We believe that exposing the choices we have made concerning our salary will bring closure to the enemy's attempts to destroy us and the church.

Saturday, July 26

I'm a Superstar!!

I know, it's hard to believe, but little ol' me has turned into a super star!!!

Okay, so I'm just kidding.....yesterday was another lesson in politics. I had a television interview with a local station in regards to the petition for a grand jury. I was somewhat nervous, but not too bad. The reporter said I did well, and asked me if I wanted her job! No doubt she was trying to feed my ego, but none the less!
The one thing I flipped about was my jewelry. (I know, of all the things to be worried about!) I chose an all black outfit, but the jewelry I wear with that outfit is a little gaudy. It's not tacky, just big. I have very little jewelry that's not big simply because I like big jewelry. So I took along some silver, but then that would make my jewelry bling, bling and I wasn't sure if that was a good choice either. I just couldn't decide. I know, I know, I know, I sound like a girl. Well, I am, can't help it!

So back to the interview, it was actually very easy to answer the questions, since I'm passionate about the cause. It was a great opportunity to communicate my opinions about the whole issue. The interview aired last night at the 6:00 and 10:00 editions of the news. I've heard they will send you a copy of it, so I'm hoping I can request it since I didn't get to see it.