Just a few little things...

So, I am cheating and putting this post on all my blogs. So you only need to visit one today if you follow all of mine.
I think this is a fun time of year! I love seeing how everyone else decorates for Christmas, and I love the cold clear air when I go out doors!

It was really a lot of fun seeing my Nebraska Branch Anderson Clansmen last week. The guys got their limit of deer at the ranch Micah works for. The place is really nice, and the guys had a wonderful time hunting. They enjoyed being in the wide open range again. The rolling hills are similar to the ranch I was raised on, but the vegitation is different.
Micah and Nicole have a really nice 4 bedroom home on two levels. The basement has a huge living area, and two of the bedrooms. There are three bathrooms, and a nice open living area. Tons of cupboards and cabinets and closets.

I got a bad spell with my Cellulitis, and so I really did not enjoy the time as much as I could have had that not happened. I got chilled the first afternoon, and it took me two heated blankets to get warmed back up. Then the leg got bad.

Micaiah and Nicolae are so very adorable, and Micah and Nicole are a greats host and hostess so if you go see them you will have a wonderful time! Now Kristi and I will be heading next to see Mark and Jordan and Caedmon! I can hardly wait.

Here is a little information about cellulitis: I got the info from the linked title....
Cellulitis Index



Our Cellulitis Main Article provides a comprehensive look at the who, what, when and how of Cellulitis



Definition of Cellulitis MRSA Slideshow Cellulitis: An acute spreading bacterial infection below the surface of the skin characterized by redness (erythema), warmth, swelling, and pain. Cellulitis can also cause fever, chills, and "swollen glands" (enlarged lymph nodes). Cellulitis is a clinical diagnosis based on the spreading involvement of skin and subcutaneous tissues with erythema, swelling, and local tenderness, accompanied by fever and malaise.

Cellulitis commonly appears in areas where there is a break in the skin from an abrasion, a cut, or a skin ulcer. It can also be due to local trauma, such as an animal bite. Only rarely is cellulitis due to the bacteremic spread of infection -- bacteria arriving from a distant source via the bloodstream.

What does cellulitis look like?



Risk factors for cellulitis include diabetes and impairment of the immune system (from, for example, HIV/AIDS or immunosuppressant drugs). Cellulitis is not contagious because it is an infection of the skin's deeper layers, the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, and the skin's top layer (the epidermis) provides a cover over the infection.

The main bacterium that causes cellulitis is Staph (Staphylococcus aureus) and Strep (Group A Streptococcus) is next most common. Cellulitis can be caused by many other types of bacteria. In children under six, H. flu (Hemophilus influenzae) can cause cellulitis, especially on the face, arms, and upper torso. Cellulitis from a dog or cat bite or scratch may be caused by the Pasturella multocida bacteria. Cellulitis after an injury from a saltwater fish or shellfish can be due to the Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. These same bacteria can also cause cellulitis after a skin injury on the farm, especially while working with pigs or poultry.

Antibiotics such as derivatives of penicillin that are effective against the staph germ are used to treat cellulitis. If other bacteria, as determined by culture tests, turn out to be the cause, or if patients are allergic to penicillin, other appropriate antibiotics are substituted.


Last Editorial Review: 1/25/2008

Common Misspellings: cellutitis, celluitis, cellulitist, cellolitus, cellulitous, celulitis, cellulitus

THE CROSSWALK

I do not know the origin of this cartoon,
but if anyone does let me know so I can give credit
where crediti is due.
Thanks enjoy the lesson today!




























Sometimes we complain about the cross we bear but don't realize it is preparing us for the dip in the road that God can see and we cannot

Whatever your cross,
whatever your pain,
there will always be sunshine, after the rain....
Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall;
But God's always ready, to answer your call....
He knows every heartache, sees every tear,
a word from His lips, can calm every fear...
Your sorrows may linger, throughout the night,
But suddenly vanish, by dawn's early light...
The Savior is waiting, somewhere above,
to give you His grace, and send you His love.
May God fill your day with blessings!!

Remember everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle...)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and Your minds in Christ Jesus.—Philippians 4:6-7

I am praying we all petition God for our President elect, and all those he puts into power. Pray without ceasing and pray for them to all turn their hearts to God the Father through His Son, Jesus Christ.

It is my oldest son's birthday today! Wow I am really getting old!

It snowed as I was falling to sleep last night, but when I woke up there was no snow on the ground.. I just wish I had some snow to show for the aching I am doing... Oh well such is life here in Misssouri! I am so looking forward to getting to see some missing members of my family this weekend! It will be so nice to see them. And it will be nice to see where they are now living, and it looks to be a really nice visit.
I have plenty of food on hand for my house sitters, and they will get to enjoy some peace of country life for a few days. I am not s ure if we are leaving to night or tomorrow morning. But anyway I will be backnext week. I sure wish I had a digi cam to take some pictures... oh well.

Joyful Heart Renewal Ministriesis a website with a lot of interesting reading I have linked the Christmas section for you. Go and enjoy reading the articles there. Have a wonderful Christmas Season!

For two nights in a row , it snowed here on "The Property". But we only have a sprinkling of snow for all the effort. Had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday, and enjoyed having Mark, Jordan and Caedmon here! The food and fellowship were great, and I am blessed beyond measure! My eldest and youngest finished cleaning the kitchen for me on Thursday night while I sat and watched them with my bum leg elevated. What a blessing! Chandra could not come Wednesday to help with pies (our anual tradition) cause she was sick, but Jordan was here to fill in for her, and the pies were truly wonderful. Noah and Isaiah made an apple pie that was wonderful! Jordan did the lion's share of the preparation for this Thanksgiving feast, and it was truly great.

~First Sunday of Advent~






This is the first Sunday of Advent! Light your first candle! Call me for the tune for MY Lord What a Morning I will sing it for you!



Advent Wreath Meditations
~First Sunday of Advent (November 30, 2008)





But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.

Then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

Keep alert, for you do not know when the time will come . . . in the evening, or at midnight, or at dawn. Keep awake. (Mark 13:24-26, 32, 33, 35, 37, NRSV)

Such amazing things happen in the sky to herald the return of the Son of Man:
. . . Jesus, coming in the clouds
. . . the sun grows dark
. . . the moon doesn't shine
. . . and stars fall from the heavens


So different from that first coming more than 2000 years ago:
. . . with angels singing of God's glory and peace on earth
. . . with the single star guiding the way to the manger
. . . with shepherds and wisemen -- rich and poor -- coming to worship.

And so we watch, and wait, and stay alert, waiting again for the coming of Jesus.
And we light a single candle in preparation for that glorious day.

[Light the first candle on the Advent wreath.]

. . . And even if the sun should grow dark
. . . even if the moon refuses to shine
. . . even if the stars should fall from the
sky…


. . . we will have Jesus, the Light of the World, to shine brightly in our hearts, lighting our way.

All: Come, Lord Jesus, come. Amen.

"My Lord, What a Morning," 719, The United Methodist Hymnal


My Lord, what a morning; my Lord, what a morning;
Oh, my Lord, what a morning, when the stars begin to fall.
You'll hear the trumpet sound, to wake the nations underground,
Looking to my God's right hand, when the stars begin to fall.
My Lord, what a morning; my Lord, what a morning;
Oh, my Lord, what a morning, when the stars begin to fall.

(Traditional African-American spiritual)

OR "Shine, Jesus, Shine," stanza 1, 2173, The Faith We Sing

I got this from Planning Helps~Advent Wreath Meditations

Advent History and Tradition
The Beginning of the Christian Year



Prior to the Nativity Celebration of Christmas Day, Advent refers to the holy season of the Christian church which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It begins on the Fourth Sunday before Christmas and ends on the 25th of December. As the commencement of the Christian year, the Advent Season holds a special place in the Christian tradition.

The History of Advent
The word "advent" comes from the Latin term for "coming," and refers to the first and second Comings of Jesus Christ, in the senses of Savior and Judge, respectively. The first authoritative mention of Advent appears in the Synod of Lerida (AD 524), and the season has been recognized since as the beginning of the western ecclesiastical (church) year. The celebration originally began as a period of fasting, similar to Lent. Although the practice of abstention was later relaxed, Advent retains the spirit of atonement and penitence.

Advent Wreaths and Calendars
In western cultures, the four Sundays of Advent are often celebrated with Advent wreaths decorated with four candles. Made from evergreens, the circular wreaths symbolize eternal life and the endless nature of God's love. Three of the candles are purple or blue while the fourth is typically rose-colored or pink.

One candle is lit each Sunday of the season. The rose-colored candle is lit on the third Sunday, which is considered to be a more festive day than the others. On Christmas Day, a fifth candle (known as the "Christ Candle" and often white in color) is lit in the center of the wreath, or may replace it altogether.

Advent calendars are also popular during the season. About 25 small compartments are created, often through the use of multiple sheets of cardboard or through sewn pockets. These are filled with seasonal messages, religious pictures, small chocolates, stories, or toys, depending upon the particular calendar.

Advent Traditions and Customs around the World
There are many ways Advent is celebrated. In English history, poor women would carry "Advent images" -- two dolls dressed as Christ and the Virgin Mary. Upon showing these images to passersby, the women would be gifted with small amounts of money or trinkets. Failing to donate was considered bad luck.

In Normandy, children under 12 were sent through farmers' fields with torches, setting fire to straw to drive off vermin. Italy supported the tradition of bagpipe players entering into Rome during the last days of the season. They played music before shrines of the Blessed Virgin, just as shepherds played pipes at the manger to honor the Messiah's coming.

The Season of Advent remains one of the most important times of the Christian year. It celebrates the blessing of the birth of Christ, and reminds the faithful of his eventual return.

Thanksgiving Proclamation:

Thanksgiving, 1864, was proclaimed by President Abraham Lincoln in these words:

"It has pleased Almighty God to prolong our national life another year...to favor as well our citizens in their homes as our soldiers in their camps, and our sailors on the rivers and seas, with unusual health.
"He has largely augmented our free population by emancipation and by immigration, while He has opened to us new sources of wealth, and has crowned the labor of our working men in every department of industry with abundant rewards.
"Moreover, He has been pleased to animate and inspire our minds and hearts with fortitude, courage and resolution sufficient for the great trial ... into which we have been brought by cause of freedom and humanity ...
"Now, therefore, I .... do hereby appoint and set apart the last Thursday in November next as a day which I desire to be observed by all my fellow-citizens, wherever they may be then, as a day of thanksgiving and praise to Almighty God, the beneficent Creator and Ruler of the universe.
"And I do further recommend to my fellow-citizens aforesaid, that on that occasion they do reverently humble themselves in the dust, and from thence offer up penitent and fervent prayers and supplications to the great Disposer of events for a return of the inestimable blessings of peace, union and harmony throughout the land which it has pleased Him to assign as a dwelling-place for ourselves and for our posterity throughout all generations."

1. Post the rules on your blog.
2. Fill out the questions below
3. Tag 5-7 people at the end of your post.
4. Pass on the tag. Have FUN!!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Choco​late?
Hot Chocolate and Egg Nog

2. Does Santa​ wrap prese​nts
No I do: with lots of tape and glitter glue!!)

3. Color​ed light​s on tree/​house​ or white​?
White lights

4. Do you hang mistl​etoe?
Yes

5. When do you put your decor​ation​s up?
After Thanksgiving

6. What is your favor​ite holid​ay dish​?
Cheddar Beef

7. Favor​ite holid​ay memor​y as a child:
Mom telling me the Salvation story while setting up the nativity scene... I accepted Christ while we were setting it up!!!!

8. When and how did you learn​ the truth​ about​ Santa​?
When I was three, just thought it could not be... MY brother thought a red light in the sky was Rudolf and I thought that was stupid cause it never moved... I always have gone against the flow, What can I say???

9. Do you open a gift on Chris​tmas Eve?
Yes -just one.

10. How do you decor​ate your Chris​tmas Tree?
Now I do a tree in every room. The big tree is in burgundy and gold. The TV room tree will be red and silver or green The computer/office/guest room will have the 12 days of Christmas, and the kitchen will have candy and cupcake ornaments (if I can find them when I unpack stuff from the farm)

11. Snow!​ Love it or Dread​ it?
I love pretty snow and I love 6 foot deep snow like we had in Wyoming I miss that!!!

12. Can you ice skate​?
NO!!!!

13. Do you remem​ber your favor​ite gift?
Too many favorites... I remember some cool stuff like my first grown-up ring when I was 11 it was a pearl with two real diamonds on the side (not chips but real diamonds... That was so cool!

14. What is the most impor​tant thing​ about​ the Holid​ays for you?
Keeping Christ in Christmas, being a family in Christ. Celebrating not just His birth, but His life death and Resurrection as well. I love Christmas carols and all things Christmas when Christ is in it.

15. What is your favor​ite Holid​ay Des​rt?
My Mom's apple pie, (NO BODY ELSE'S)

16. What is your favor​ite holid​ay tradi​tion?
Christmas Eve dinner.

17. What tops your tree?
A little angle that was on the last Christmas card I got from my Gramma

18. Which​ do you prefe​r givin​g or recei​ving?
Giving~Absolutely!

19. What is your favor​ite Chris​tmas Song?
Silver Belles reminds me of when I was a child, shopping with my Couny Fair money for gifts for my family in Cheyenne That was back when we could go alone and not worry.. I would shop at all those nice men's stores downtown, then go to Woolworths and Newberries and Ben Franklins and it was jusat glorious with the snow packed streets and the crisp winter air The streets were decorated with bells and stuff.

20. Candy​ Canes​!​ Yuck or Yum?
They are OK I usually eat one or two....

21. What do you want for Chris​tmas?
Can't think of anything in particular just family around, and well maybe... naw not going to say....

22. Do you atten​d an annua​l Chris​tmas Party​?
No.

23. Do you dress​ up on Chris​tmas or wear PJs?
Dress up.

24. Do you own a Santa​ hat?
No

25. Who do you norma​lly spend​ Chris​tmas with?
Always Hubby, Kristi and Joshua sometimes all the rest of the kids and grandkids...

I'm Tagging:
Mandy
Hope
Chamdra,
Molly,
Nicole,
Jordan,
Kristi,
Ashley

From the OurChruch.com Blog, I got the following article. You can comment here or at the Our Church place if you wish to make a comment.
Do you know the true story of Thanksgiving?
Everyone knows about the Pilgrims and the Indians, right? How the two groups gathered peacefully in Plymouth, Mass., to feast on juicy turkeys and colorful pumpkin pies. The trouble is, almost everything we’ve been taught about the first Thanksgiving is a myth. In fact the holiday has not just one history - not two - but three different histories.

One stems from the “creative musings of a magazine editor in the mid-1800s. A second history is based on a 1921 “shooting party.” A third history is based accounts from the governor’s diary, which was lost for almost 100 years.

Can you separate the Thanksgiving myths from the truth?


History #1: The Tradition

For the most part, the Thanksgiving traditions we celebrate are the ideas of 1850s magazine editor and New England socialite Sarah Josepha Hale. She was the editor of the popular Godey’s Lady’s Book and filled her magazine with recipes and editorials about Thanksgiving. In 1858, Ms. Hale petitioned the president of the United States to declare Thanksgiving a national holiday. Five years later Abraham Lincoln established the national holiday we celebrate in the U.S. today.

Most of our Thanksgiving traditions, in particular the stories about the Pilgrims and Indians and the traditional foods of turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie are derived from Ms. Hale’s writings.

History #2: 1621

Quite a bit of investigation has been done since in an attempt to determine what really happened on the first Thanksgiving. Much of that research has focused on a 1621 event described in a letter by Edward Winslow:

“Our harvest being gotten in, our Governor sent four men on fowling, that so we might after a more special manner rejoice together, after we had gathered the fruit of our labors; they four in one day killed as much fowl as, with a little help beside, served the Company almost a week, at which time, among other Recreations, we exercised our Arms, many of the Indians coming amongst us, and among the rest their greatest King Massasoit, with some 90 men, whom for three days we entertained and feasted and they went out and killed five Deer, which they brought to the Plantation and bestowed on our Governor, and upon the Captain and others.”

Based on that account and other historical records concerning the European settlers, the native Wampanoag people, and the foods and tools available in New England at the time. Historians have determined the 1621 event was far different than the Thanksgiving we celebrate today. In fact, almost none of the traditional Thanksgiving foods were present on that occasion.

Several years ago the Christian Science Monitor published this article distinguishing Thanksgiving traditions from the 1621 event.

History #3: 1623

Just when you might think that would settle things and give us the true history of Thanksgiving, along came the diary of the Governor of the Colony of New Plymouth, William Bradford. Gov. Bradford’s chronicles were lost for nearly 100 years when the British looted the colony.

In his diary, Governor Bradford recounts the proclamation of November 29, 1623, as a Day of Thanksgiving. While there was in fact a big feast in the fall of 1621 it was never referred to as Thanksgiving. The events leading up to this first official Day of Thanksgiving are much different than those leading to the 1921 feast.

“the Pilgrims [had] set up a communist system in which they owned the land in common and would also share the harvests in common. By 1623, it became clear this system was not working out well. The men were not eager to work in the fields, since if they worked hard, they would have to share their produce with everyone else. The colonists faced another year of poor harvests. They held a meeting to decide what to do.”

“The Pilgrims changed their economic system from communism to geoism; the land was still owned in common and could not be sold or inherited, but each family was allotted a portion, and they could keep whatever they grew. The governor ‘assigned to every family a parcel of land, according to the proportion of their number for that end.’”

“Their new geoist economic system was a great success. It looked like they would have an abundant harvest this time. But then, during the summer, the rains stopped, threatening the crops. The Pilgrims held a “Day of Humiliation” and prayer. The rains came and the harvest was saved… Governor Bradford proclaimed November 29, 1623, as a Day of Thanksgiving.”

Read more about the 1623 Day of Thanksgiving.

Myth: The Pilgrims invited the Indians to celebrate the First Thanksgiving.


Fact: According to oral accounts from the Wampanoag people, when the Native people nearby first heard the gunshots of the hunting colonists, they thought that the colonists were preparing for war and that Massasoit needed to be informed. When Massasoit showed up with 90 men and no women or children, it can be assumed that he was being cautious. When he saw there was a party going on, his men then went out and brought back five deer and lots of turkeys.
In addition, both the Wampanoag and the English settlers were long familiar with harvest celebrations. Long before the Europeans set foot on these shores, Native peoples gave thanks every day for all the gifts of life, and held thanksgiving celebrations and giveaways at certain times of the year. The Europeans also had days of thanksgiving, marked by religious services. So the coming together of two peoples to share food and company was not entirely a foreign thing for either. But the visit that by all accounts lasted three days was most likely one of a series of political meetings to discuss and secure a military alliance. Neither side totally trusted the other: The Europeans considered the Wampanoag soulless heathens and instruments of the devil, and the Wampanoag had seen the Europeans steal their seed corn and rob their graves. In any event, neither the Wampanoag nor the Europeans referred to this feast/meeting as “Thanksgiving.”

As Paul Harvey would say, “Now you know… the rest of the story.”

There is a comments blog to this if you want to say anything, Just click on the title at the top of this post. to this

I had a great weekend with Matthew, Noah and Isaiah. We did a lot of school, and then we baked pies and played on the computer, and tried to watch movies. Noah and Isaiah had a great time watching "Hot Lead, Cold Feet" over and over and over.... Matthew hunted a lot. He made us Talapia Fajitas one night. They were great, and he made yummy venison tacos for us another night. The guys ground some of their venison with some beef fat to make the ground venison. It turned out great.
Last night we had our Annual Thanksgiving Dinner. I got sick during the meal with a horrid sinus head ache, and came home as soon as I could. The headache is still with me. I took NyQuil around 2:30 this morning, and that let me sleep, but now my time is all wacko cause it feels to me like it is about 10 in the morning when in actuality it is 4:30 in the afternoon... I was going to go buy all the Thanksgiving food today, but now I might have to wait until tomorrow. I think Joshua is coming out tomorrow to help me re arrange bookshelves and desks and stuff. I hope anyway... The dogs probably wondered why I was so late feeding and watering them today.... Oh well no biggy they were happy to see me when they finally did.

Bitter Winter, Better Thanksgiving,
the story of Miles Standish
by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson


"Pilgrims Landing," Edward Percy Moran (1862-1935), American artist, early 1900s, oil on canvas, 23" x 29"







"Then the sicknes begane to fall sore amongst them, and the weather so bad .... the Gov/r and cheefe of them, seeing so many dye, and fall downe sick dayly, thought it no wisdom to send away the ship...."

Capt. Miles Standish had been much at his wife Rose's bedside. As much time, that is, as he could spare from stalking game, guarding against savages, and felling trees to construct crude homes on shore.

A bitter wind whistled through chinks and cracks in the Mayflower, anchored in Plymouth harbor that winter of 1620-21. Rose's chills would turn to uncontrollable shaking. Then just as suddenly, her body would be ablaze with fever. Herbs from the surgeon's chest did little to relieve her. By spring only five wives remained out of the eighteen who had sailed to Plymouth. Rose was not among them.

Thanksgiving? What was that? The golden dreams of a New World that Miles and Rose had cherished together had evaporated into hollow hopes. And yet that fall Capt. Standish joined other bereaved Pilgrims in the first Thanksgiving celebration.

The real test of thankfulness is whether we can give thanks from the heart for what we do have, despite the wounds and pains of yesterday's struggles. Ours is not some fair-weather faith, but a resilient trust in in the midst of pain. The Pilgrims lived close to the edge of survival. Perhaps that is why they were so thankful.

How about you? Does your material bounty cause you to neglect thanks? When your clan gathers this Thanksgiving will a prayer of thankfulness be forgotten between moist turkey and pumpkin pie? Will your children see you bow your head to give thanks, or merely ask for another helping of dressing and cranberry sauce?

Children will be watching, you know. And their little faith is being formed by what they see. Your family's Thanksgiving celebration will instruct them about thankfulness, for good or ill.

Will they see you too wealthy to be thankful? Too independent to need God any more? Too bitter, perhaps? Or will they watch you truly give thanks for God's blessings on this special day? And maybe as they watch, they'll catch a hint that mom and dad and grandmother, in spite of painful seasons they have faced, have seen these bitter winters bear fruit in better thanksgiving.


More Thanksgiving Stories and Articles

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving season? Read Psalm 103 below, and thank God for all He is doing in your life! Remember it is not always the BIG MIRACULOUS things we need to thank God for. Sometimes we need to just thank Him for fresh water to drink, or a bed to sleep in at night What ever He has given you, remember to Thank Him. Even if the answer to a prayer is not the one you wanted, thank Him for His wisdom in giving you what you need.
In this week before Thanksgiving, let us not forget that Our Heavenly Father has given us the greatest gift of all: salvation though His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. All we need to do is repent of our sins and ask Him to come into our hearts and rule our lives. So simple, yet so few of us have done this simple thing.

Psalm 103
Of David.
1 Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-

3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,

4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,

5 who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

6 The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed.

7 He made known his ways to Moses,
his deeds to the people of Israel:

8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.

9 He will not always accuse,
nor will he harbor his anger forever;

10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.

11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;

12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

13 As a father has compassion on his children,
so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;

14 for he knows how we are formed,
he remembers that we are dust.

15 As for man, his days are like grass,
he flourishes like a flower of the field;

16 the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.

17 But from everlasting to everlasting
the LORD's love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children's children-

18 with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.

19 The LORD has established his throne in heaven,
and his kingdom rules over all.

20 Praise the LORD, you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his bidding,
who obey his word.

21 Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts,
you his servants who do his will.

22 Praise the LORD, all his works
everywhere in his dominion.
Praise the LORD, O my soul.

Pray today asking God to help you to lead another to Christ. We must all share the gift He has given us so freely. Ask His will to be done in your life so you can know His perfect peace, which transends all understanding! Stand firm in your faith today!

Joshua brought his deer down to dress out. He stayed the night. Terry made a fabulous breakfast out of nothing.. I told him I did not have anything to cook for breakfast, but he rustled around and found stuff to make some Daddy Hash, and it was very very good. Now they are out working on the deer. It is a freezing 27 degrees here in Cadet today, and I am feeling it with all that high humidity. I ache, ache, ache! Every joint in my body is feeling this weather. I am sure they are having to break the water in the dog's water tank...
I won't have to worry about any chickens though thanks to the bobcat....

Fall days seem to give me a feeling of restfullness and peace. I love fall! The leaves today are gorgeous here on the property, and we even still have a few rose buds on Micah and Nicole's rose bushes. I want to get a few little things from nature to bring in for Thanksgiving decorations. The berries I wanted to bring in to decorate, were eaten by the birds, so I will have to go back into the "forest" and see if I can find some other beautiful fall things to bring in for for Thanksgiving.

Not the day I planned, but a good day never the less...
Luke arrived with the three kids, and the announcement that he forgot the diaper bag for Addie. Not really a problem, because I had planned to someday get supplied up for Just in case stuff for her anyway, and I had planned to get a fold up play crib for the babies some time this week. So after we watched a bit of TV, and I got myself dressed, we headed for town. I thought I might have a better selection at Walmart in DeSoto, so I then thought, "Hey, maybe Kristi would like to join us for lunch if she does not have a client." So I called her, and at first she said no, then she changed her mind and decided to meet us at IMOs for lunch. I got to Wally World, took the three grandbabies in and shopped for bottles, diapers, formula, and a crib, and also got a few snacks for the kids for after their naps. Then I headed to IMOs for lunch. When we got in, I decided to get the bottle out and fill it with formula, and lo and behold, I had forgotten to get the liners for the bottles! So Kristi ran to the Country Mart and got liners and yet another bottle (I had to buy two in order to get the nipples that Addie prefers) so now I have three bottles on hand. Any hoo, We had a lovely lunch of pizza and salad and chocolate pudding; said good bye to Aunt Kristi, and headed home.
Oh I forgot to mention, the predator ate all three of the last chickens last night, so we are no longer chicken farmers... Anyway when we got home I let the boys play in the back yard for an hour or so, while Addie slept in the suburban and I sat with her and watched the boys. We went in the house when it got windy, but while we were outside, for some reason, GiGi came to Asher's mind, and he insisted I call GiGi so he could ask her why she was at the ranch in Wyoming and could she please come and play cause she could drive her car right down into the back yard just like Lou Lou did.... Maybe he thought it would be cool for her to sit in her car and watch them play, or maybe he thought it would be cool for her to drive her little gold car around in circles in the back yard...like they do with their toy cars... You just never know what goes on in Asher's mind.... Anyway it was a good day all in all.
The End...

A Thought for the Day
This is by a fellow from Joplin Missouri, I get his emails daily.
If you are interested in subscribing to his emails here is his info for you.

Contact Given O. Blakely

HANDFULS OF PURPOSE
Given O. Blakely
Nov 8, 2008

HANDFULS OF PURPOSE

"And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them, that she may glean them, and rebuke her not." KJV (Ruth 2:16)

The account of Ruth is one of the great testimonies to the grace of God. Ruth was a Moabitess, "of the women of Moab." In fact, she is called "Ruth the Moabitess" no less than five times (Ruth 1:22; 2:2,21; 4:5,10). Under Moses, a special curse was placed upon the Moabites, because they did not volunteer to sustain the children of Israel when they came out of Egypt. In fact, through Balak, they hired Balaam to bring a curse upon Israel (Num 22:4-5). For that reason, the Lord said, "An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD; even to their tenth generation shall they not enter into the congregation of the LORD for ever: because they met you not with bread and with water in the way, when ye came forth out of Egypt; and because they hired against thee Balaam the son of Beor of Pethor of Mesopotamia, to curse thee" (Deut 23:3-4). Now, we are confronted with a woman from these cursed people – one who is in Jesus' lineage (Matt 1:5).

Scripture apprises us that during the time of the Judges, a great famine arose in the land. To escape the famine, and find sustenance for his family, a man from Bethlehem, his wife, and two sons, went into Moab to sojourn during the famine: Elimelech, Naomi, Mahlon, and Chilion. While there, Elimelech died, leaving Naomi and her two sons. Her two sons then took wives of the women of Moab, Orpah and Ruth. After ten years, both sons died, leaving Orpah and Ruth widows, as was Naomi. At this time, Naomi heard the famine was over in the homeland, and determined to return to her own land. In the process, Orpah decided to remain in Moab, and Ruth determined to return with Naomi, making her people and her God hers also.

After returning to the land of Canaan, Naomi and Ruth went to their home town, which was Bethlehem. We are told it was "the beginning of barley harvest." Ruth suggested to Naomi that she could go and glean in the fields, following the harvesters and picking up what they left behind. Naomi consented to it. Ruth was providentially directed to the field of a man named Boaz, who was a kinsman to Naomi's deceased husband, Elimilech. Coincidently, Boaz showed up at that time, and inquired about the young lady who was gleaning in the fields. The workers told him it was "the Moabitish damsel that came back with Naomi out of the country of Moab," and that she had asked permission to "gather after the reapers." Boaz consented, and personally told Ruth she was welcome to glean in his fields, and to eat among the reapers at mealtime. He then instructed the reapers to "let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them" (2:1-16).

Other versions read the reapers were to "purposely pull out for her some grain from the bundles and leave it that she may glean." To Ruth, it appeared as though the strands of grain were simply overlooked or ignored by the reapers. The truth, however, was that they had deliberately left the grain for her.

The Scriptures are a lot like that barley field, and holy men of God were moved by the Spirit to leave certain things for us. When you see rich and gladdening truth in the text, it is because the Spirit has instructed it to be left there for you. There are "handfuls" of nourishing truth strewn in your path. They have been put there deliberately, and not by accident or chance. When you come upon a blessing, it is because God has left it there for you! Pick it up! He means for you to have it!

PRAYER POINT: Father, in the name of Jesus, I thank You that when I seek, I will always find – for You have left things behind for such noble souls.

10 Ways to Pray for Barack Obama
by J. Lee Grady who is editor of Charisma.
http://fireinmybones.com/
Whether you are happy about this week’s election results or not, all Christians must unite in prayer for our new president. Please don’t forsake this responsibility.

It’s over. We’ve reached the end of the longest, angriest and most nerve-wracking presidential campaign in American history. Finally the “I approved this message” ads have ceased. The endless robot phone calls have stopped ringing. The debates, and the annoying post-debate comments from “experts,” are history—until the next election cycle.


More than half the nation is celebrating today while others are mourning. We are a divided nation, split into unhappy fragments by abortion, gay marriage, global warming, a failed economy and an unpopular war. Those who voted for Barack Obama have claimed a historic victory; some on McCain’s side are already looking for scapegoats. Politics is politics.

But when I got up this morning, I turned all my attention to the fact that Jesus Christ is still on the throne. His government is what is most important. Regardless of who sits in the Oval Office, the Bible says “the nations are like a drop from a bucket” to God (Is. 40:15, NASB). That includes the United States. We may boast about being “the greatest nation on earth,” but He who sits in heaven has a different perspective. Let’s take a big sigh of relief now and remember that God is sovereign.

"But when I got up this morning, I turned all my attention to the fact that Jesus Christ is still on the throne. His government is what is most important."


I’ll admit this election did not turn out as I had hoped. I supported McCain primarily because I am pro-life and I prefer his small-government mindset. But now that the election is over, I’m not going to harbor bitterness toward Obama supporters or go into attack mode. Obama has been elected president of this country, and that means I have a biblical responsibility to support him in prayer—even if I challenge his policies.

Whether you voted for Obama or not, you need to pray for him. Here are 10 ways I plan to intercede for him regularly:

1. Pray for Obama’s protection.

We already know that some weird, neo-Nazi fanatics in Tennessee plotted to kill Sen. Obama during his campaign. Let’s pray that racist hatred is not allowed to spread. Let’s cancel every assassin’s bullet in the name of Jesus. May civility triumph over bigotry.

2. Cover his wife and daughters in prayer.

It is not easy to live under constant media scrutiny. Pray for Obama’s wife, Michelle, and their two daughters, Malia and Natasha, as they face invasive cameras, nosy reporters, maniacal fans and dangerous enemies. Obama is not only a politician but also a husband and a father.

3. Pray that Obama will govern with God’s wisdom.

God rewarded Solomon because he asked for wisdom instead of wealth, long life or vengeance on his enemies (see 1 Kings 3:11-12). Pray that Obama will order his priorities like that. Despite Solomon’s tragic character flaws, his legacy was wisdom. We can ask God to give our president the same grace.

4. Ask God to keep our president humble.

Many great American leaders became corrupt after they moved to Washington. The fatal attraction of fame, wealth and power proved irresistible. The only thing that will guard a man or woman from this pitfall is humility. May God deliver President Obama from the curse of pride.

5. Pray for wise and righteous advisers to surround him.

Godly leaders cannot do their job alone. Even the best leaders have failed because they trusted the wrong people. Pray that Obama will not select his counselors based on party, race, pedigree or political cronyism but on godly character and proven wisdom. Pray also that he will not allow secret traitors into his inner circle.

6. Ask for the spirit of reconciliation.

Some segments of our deeply divided society want nothing to do with Obama now that he has won the presidency. Even some Christians will be tempted to harbor resentment and nurse political grudges throughout his term in office. Pray that God will grant forgiveness and healing so that leaders on all political levels can have constructive dialogue.

7. Pray that Obama will adopt pro-life convictions.

Many politicians have changed their views on key issues while in office. In the 1800s some leaders who favored slavery later denounced it. In the 1950s some who opposed racial integration later became champions of it. Even though Obama won approval from many voters because he sanctions abortion, God could soften and change his heart.

8. Bind all evil forces assigned to manipulate our president.

The specter of Islamic terrorism looms over the United States, and dark forces are ready to infiltrate. Our only hope lies in prayer to the God who is able to expose and outwit the schemes of the wicked. This is truly a time for spiritual warfare, and intercessors must not come off the wall in this hour! Pray that no foreign government, terrorist organization or demonic principality will use Obama as a tool. We must stand strong against the spirit of antichrist that promotes dictatorship, persecution of Christians and hostility toward Israel.

9. Pray that Obama’s door will remain open to the church.

The loudest voices of secular culture—from Bill Maher in Hollywood to atheists in academia—would be happy if religion were removed from public life. Pray that Obama, who claims to have a personal faith in Jesus Christ, will unapologetically welcome Christian leaders into his company and seek their counsel. And pray that false religious leaders (who claim to know Christ but deny His power) will not have his ear.

10. Pray that our nation will enjoy God’s peace and blessing during the Obama administration.

The apostle Paul instructed early believers to pray for all in authority “so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity” (1 Tim. 2:2, NASB). God’s will is for America to experience peace and prosperity so that we can continue to export the gospel to the nations. This must happen whether a Democrat or a Republican is in the White House. As we cry out for God’s mercy on our wayward nation, pray that He will allow us to be a light to the world as we finance global missions, feed and heal the world’s poor and share Christ’s love at home and abroad.

J. Lee Grady is editor of Charisma.

Day Thirty-Five: October 29, 2008
5 days, 12 hours and 56 minutes left until election day.

For a President Through Whom God Strategically Works to Reveal His will for America


Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; He sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; He knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him.
--Daniel 2:20-22

Awesome God, all things are in Your hands—times and seasons, wisdom and knowledge, things hidden and things revealed—You hold them all! Only You are worthy of the praise of our lips, yet we give our praise so readily to those who do not deserve it. O God, Your will is perfect and supreme over all things.

I ask You to raise up the president of Your choosing this year. Work in special and needful ways to bring about Your purposes for our country, Lord, and work especially through the president to accomplish that will. You have been so faithful and true to us, God. May Your will continue to be revealed to us through those who are elected this year. In Your Holy name, Amen.

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TODAY'S VERSE from HEARTLIGHT
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October 28, 2008


VERSE:
The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the
wicked come to nothing.
-- Proverbs 10:28


THOUGHT:
Good news! When we seek righteousness, justice, holiness, mercy,
and godliness, our future is full of joy. Don't let the darkness
around you steal away the glorious dawn of joy that even now has
begun to appear.

PRAYER:
Father, please forgive me for the times I've grown depressed and
melancholy over the condition of my world and culture. Thank you,
dear Father, for the promise of victory and of glorious blessings
that lie ahead. Please help me keep my eyes on your victory. In
Jesus' name. Amen.

Heartlight

Today's Verse is also available in:
PORTUGUESE -
SPANISH -

The Holiday *I did not have my children celebrate while they were growing up is fast approaching. (*long story; ask me sometime.)

This year, I plan to make chili for our Harvest Fest at our Church, and then head down to Mark and Jordan's to spend the weekend with them, and attend their Harvest Fest. I downloaded my Clip art from http://www.faithclipart.com/ just now and clicked on their Christian Holidays link. Here is what they have to say about Halloween:

Many Christians know All Hallows Eve by the secular name "Halloween," and avoid any celebration or religious observance of the day. The prevailing thought within many churches is that the holiday glorifies evil and is anti-Christian in its ideology. While many of the customs and traditions associated with the celebration find their roots in Medieval superstitions and ancient European rituals, the prevailing theme of the holiday was to give thanks for the harvest and honor family and friends who died in the past year.

The Church recognized this facet of the observance as they expanded their missionaries into Northern Europe and Britain. Seizing an opportunity to advance the cause of Christ, the Church incorporated Christian ideology into the various harvest festivals throughout Europe and changed the day of honoring saints and martyrs to correspond with the celebrations of the autumn months.

Halloween's Ecclesiastical History
Traditionally, All Hallows Eve is a vigil for the observance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day, which fall respectively on the first two days of November. The name itself means "holy evening". The night is marked within the Church with prayers, hymns, fasting, and the reading of various scriptures in preparation for the celebration of the faith of the saints and martyrs the following day.

All Hallows Eve falls on the 31st of October, which also happens to be the day for the Protestant celebration of the Reformation. Pope Gregory IV set the date for All Saints Day in the early ninth century to specifically interact with the Celtic festival Of Samhain. The prevailing belief within the Church Catechism was that "a perennial link of charity exists between the faithful who have already reached their heavenly home, those who are expiating their sins in purgatory and those who are still pilgrims on earth. Between them there is, too, an abundant exchange of all good things," (#1475).

All Hallows Eve and Autumn Celebrations
Despite the Church's success in establishing a Christian foundation for the autumn celebrations, many of the ancient customs and traditions associated with them were still practiced by the population. The carving of gourds and the wearing of costumes and masks to scare away malevolent spirits are typical of the superstitions carried over from these celebrations into the All Hallows Eve observance.

The custom of "trick-or-treating" has its origins in a ritual wherein the elders of a village or town would go from house to house and receive offerings of food and gifts for the souls of dead friends and relatives thought to visit on this night. This practice evolved during the Middle Ages, when beggars would travel from village to village and beg for "soul cakes". Villagers would offer prayers along with the cakes to those who had died in the past year for their transition to heaven.

Many countries around the world have some type of celebration during the Autumn Equinox that gives thanks for the harvest and pays tribute to those who have died. The concept of death among various cultures and societies, many of them Christian, is treated as a natural part of the process of life. Honoring relatives and friends who have "gone home to be with the Lord" is often viewed as a privilege that is pleasing to God. Numerous Christians find comfort in the belief that those who have gone before them are among the "cloud of witnesses" praying and interceding for them. The United States is one of the few nations in which the concept of death is socially uncomfortable and viewed as a taboo subject.

Whatever the prevailing view amongst churches, for many Christians, Catholic and Protestant, All Hallows Eve continues to be observed as a time of faith and hope. Remembering those who lived their Christian faith and served God with all their hearts, even to the point of giving their lives, provides inspiration and perseverance for those who still remain.

Video at the bottom of this page..
I am posting a video clip you should watch and pray about it is disturbing and it is sad.

Triple Portion

May the blessings of each day
Be the blessings you need most
~ A Gaelic blessing

Today was our day with Asher and Levi. I feel so blessed when I get to have grandchildren and a hubby all in the same day, But today we got to share part of the day with Kristi and Joshua and then part of the evening with Luke.
I made a not as good as usual quiche and some waffles (well I made the batter and Terry cooked them on his new Belgian waffle maker) and bacon for brunch. Levi and Asher loved the waffles, but were not about to eat the quiche! And I have been known to make better. Then I made a roast for LUPPER. (Combo lunch supper)I think the Lupper meal made up for the brunch meal. Luke had a bite of the roast when he came to pick up the children, and I got to spend a few minutes with Addie while Luke helped Terry do something outdoors. So all in all, it was a very blessed day at "The Property"!

-- Ecclesiastes 10:18
I get a daily prayer devotional
from http://www.heartlight.org/
I am sharing todays because it spoke to me while I was procrastinating from doing my unpacking.

VERSE:
If a man is lazy, the rafters sag; if his hands are idle, the
house leaks.
-- Ecclesiastes 10:18
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Ecclesiastes+10:18

THOUGHT:
Laziness is not just an attitude, it is a lack of action. It is
a choice to let important matters suffer neglect. While the results
of this choice may not always be evident, over the passage of time,
the basic results of idleness are borne out by the accumulating
signs of decay and destruction.

PRAYER:
Stir in me, dear Heavenly Father, a passion to do what is true
and good and righteous. Convict my heart when I neglect what is
important. Please help me discern the difference between laziness
and a genuine need for rest and to balance my life between my many responsibilities. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

It is hard when you are the parent of grown children. You can't take them in your arms and kiss away their hurts. You want to, but you can't do that. I want to do that today for one of my beloved children. But I can't. I just want this child to know that Dad and I pray for each of our children without ceasing. It is pretty easy for both of us to do a lot of praying because of the circumstances in our lives. We both spend a lot of time alone, so that gives us a great opportunity to bring everything to God. We can do a lot of intercessory praying. So we know that even though this is a rough time for you, dear child of ours, we know God is good and God knows the direction He has in mind for you and as long as you cling to Him, He will take care of you. Wish I could lift you up and kiss this away, but I can't. But God can.

TODAY IS FOR ALL MY CHILDREN

In Praise of a Good Wife
Proverbs 31:10-31
10A truly good wife is the most precious treasure a man can find!

11Her husband depends on her, and she never lets him down.

12She is good to him every day of her life,

13and with her own hands she gladly makes clothes.

14She is like a sailing ship that brings food from across the sea.

15She gets up before daylight to prepare food for her family and for

her servants.

16She knows how to buy land and how to plant a vineyard,

17and she always works hard.

18She knows when to buy or sell, and she stays busy until late at night.

19She spins her own cloth,

20and she helps the poor and the needy.

21Her family has warm clothing, and so she doesn't worry when it snows.

22She does her own sewing, and everything she wears is beautiful.

23Her husband is a well-known and respected leader in the city.

24She makes clothes to sell to the shop owners.

25She is strong and graceful, [b] as well as cheerful about the future.

26Her words are sensible, and her advice is thoughtful.

27She takes good care of her family and is never lazy.

28Her children praise her, and with great pride her husband says,

29"There are many good women, but you are the best!"

30Charm can be deceiving, and beauty fades away, but a woman who honors the LORD

deserves to be praised.

31Show her respect-- praise her in public for what she has done.

This blogging thing is such a blessing to me!
Proverbs 31 DILs....
I just got finished reading the updates on all my family's blog spots, and just feel so blessed. Joshua, Kristi and all the DIL except Molly (hint, hint, hint, Molly) have a blog for me to read. I just feel blessed that they all love the Lord, and are sharing their love for Him and for their families here on line. And the cool thing is I am learning from them. Molly you need to do a blog too! I get to see pictures of my away babies, and also my here ones. They are all such busy families, and I am, like I said before, blessed to get to share in their lives. Keep on blogging!

What a blessing grandchildren are to us old people! Meet mine:

Caedmon Middleton
Caedmon means wise warrior
Middleton means middle town
Iain
Iain means God Is gracious


Noah Matthew
Noah means repose; consolation, rest, movement
Matthew means gift of Yahweh; gift of God
Isaiah Robert
Isaiah means the salvation of Jehovah, the salvation of the Lord
Robert means shining with fame; God's anointing
Abijah Saul
Abijah means the Lord is my father
Saul means asked for, called one, desired one
Nehemiah Walter
Nehemiah means consolation; repentance of the Lord
Walter means Godly Warrior


Asher Kincaid
Asher means who is happy; or walks; or looks; happiness
Kincaid means head of the woods, or this I'll defend
Levi Arron
Levi means adhesion, associated with him
Arron means high mountain: Lofty or inspired
Addie Sue
Addie means ornament, my witness; adorned;
Sue means lily

Isaac Walter
Isaac means laughter
Walter means Godly warrior
Grace Louise
Grace means spiritual blessing
Louise means renowned warrior
Jude Allen
Jude means the praise of the Lord; confession
Allen means handsome


Micaiah Camile
Micaiah means who resembles God
Camile means Altar server, or free-born; noble
Nicolae Judah
Nicolae means victory of the people
Judah means praise

It was such a great day for me until.... Asher broke his clavicle bone. His Daddy did the same back when he was very little. . Poor little guy! He was in such agony when Luke drove off with him in the back seat of their SUV.
Today Luke and John moved the couches out of the trailer. They also loaded the boxes I already have packed, and so I only have about a day left before I hand the keys back to the land lord. What a wonderful day that will be for me! I had John and Molly eat with me. Luke and Mandy were going to, but alas Asher had to go to the emergency room instead. Please pray for a speedy recovery for Asher. Thanks all! Oh and pray for my poor SS class in the morning I don't even have my teachers book, and need to call Kristi to find out what the lesson is even about... Too busy a week here!

I just realized; I AM OLD!
I have gotten several ads for some oh so cool homeschool curicula ideas... I was so tempted to order the science stuff. Then I remembered I am old. I am a retired mom I do not homeschool any more. I just got my email from Timberdoodle, and the stuff looks so fun! I miss buying homeschool materials. Here is the link for the cool science program:
www.HomeschoolScienceAcademy.com
And here is the link to Timberdoodle:
www.timberdoodle.com
Enjoy!
And as for me: Just reminding myself I am so saving money being old and not needing to buy home school stuff!!!!

William is 18 today!
I cooked dinner for him, we had roast beef, Potatoes ala Terry, mushrooms, glazed carrots, greek salad, and topped it off with triple chocolate/orange cake with chocolate/orange btter cream frosting. We are now watching Sister Act 2 and having coffee,

Acts 14:17
God will take care of us!
I am feeling the winds of change. I just got online to cancel my auto pay for my rent here. I was thinking about calling the phone company to set up a time to move my service over to the property, and also getting the electric there into my name and taking it out of my name here. I also need to set up the Dish over there. Terry and I noticed some turning leaves on the way home from church Sunday, and I have pulled my fall decoration boxes out from the rest of my storage piles. The financial crisis is looking bad, but we will just keep on keeping on, and we will go forth.

"Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy."
Acts 14:17
New International Version (NIV)

I guess I am just going to have to keep clinging to my last posting's verse:

"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes
for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches
our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit
intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will."
-- Romans 8:26-27

Seems I do not really know what I need to pray for right now, but I want God's will in my life. So I am clinging to Romans 8:26-27. I am confident God will reveal His will to me soon.
Meanwhile I will share my day with you.
It was a pretty fun day here. Mandy's Frogs, Asher and Levi were with me all day. (they came home with me from Connections last night.) The week before, I had stopped at DQ and got them a Dipped cone. They fell asleep before we got to my turn off, and I had to rescue them from the dripping cones. Well they remembered that we had stopped at DQ, so we of course had to stop again for ice cream. This time I got them Dilly bars, and we once again needed to rescue them from dripping ice cream as Asher fell asleep, and Levi simply got tired of eating his. Today was a really very busy day. We built a house, we did several water color paintings each, and we drew several house plans. We then ate our macaroni and cheese for lunch. Next on the list was our baking for the day. We baked cookies; chocolate chip for Levi, and peanut butter for Asher. We made railroad tracks, and watched FOX NEWS (this is Asher's new favorite thing to watch on TV with me) he sits next to me all snuggled up and watches and asks me who everyone is that is being interviewed.. We watch for about an hour.... Then he falls asleep. After all that work, we have our traditional weekly TEA PARTY. Today we used my Blue Calico dishes. Last week we used the mini set. The week before we used Uncle Joshua's red rose set. After tea party # 1 we went outside and ran races and talked with Pappa on the phone. Then we came back in the house and had tea party #2. Then the kids got hungry and asked for a corn dog. Mommy got to the house about the time the corn dogs were hot, and so they gathered their treasures and left.

"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not
know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes
for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches
our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit
intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will."
-- Romans 8:26-27

Our good news this week is that we traded Joshua's '87 Jeep for a '91 Suburban for me. Joshua has taken over my Alero, and he is very happy with the gas mileage he is getting compared to what he was getting with the Jeep. I am thrilled because I have a nice big auto that I can seriously haul grand babies with, and also it will be able to pull a trailer to haul everything from hay to lumber etc. I am excited about this. And So far I think it is good on gas. I have been praying about getting a good useful truck or Suburban for about 10 years now, and now I am still debt free, and have my Suburban. It is in excellent condition. The upholstery is still shiny! So far all the grand babies are thrilled with it! Luke and Mandy's kids wanted us to give it to their parents so they could ride in it all the time! Micaiah loves it she thinks it is wonderful. She has spent a lot of time in it since we got the privilege of having her from Wednesday morning til Friday night. Good grief I am so going to miss that little girl!

At this point in time, I am not very sure what I am even wanting to do anymore, other than wanting to be in God's will with my life. So I will ask you to pray for God's will in our lives.

Well, I need to rethink my future plans right now.

Micah and Nicole have accepted the job in Nebraska. I do not want to live down here all alone. Taking a turn about. Terry will be working for 6 more years at Yellow in KC. That is a hard fact, cause he cannot take early retirement with their new policies. And he is tired of having a weekend wife, and I am tired of being a weekend wife. So I think we will be getting a home near KC so he can get a day job and come home every night. We at the present plan to keep our acreage here, and work on it whenever we come over her for a weekend. Maybe we'll set up a place to stay when here. Prayers will be appreciated for us as we look for a property near KC. Thanks. We might have found a place I will like. We will see.

Just like with the steps to praying, some people need a guide line for salvation. In actuality, I believe there is really only one step, and that is having Faith in Jesus Christ as God the Son, our redeemer. There are things however we do, once we have that faith, and there are steps to learning about God. All humans are sinners. All the wrong things we do are called sin. The sins in our lives keep us from being close to God. The sins keep us from getting into heaven. Read these verses:

Romans 3:23 (KJV)"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
Romans 6:23 (KJV) "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
God created us for His pleasure, and He loves us so much that He made a way for us to live eternally with Him. He sent His only Son, Jesus to become man and live here on earth with us. While Jesus was here on the earth, He did not sin. He was and is perfect. But even though Jesus never did anything wrong, He died on the cross for our sins. He died for all of us, but He would have died on that cross if you were the only one who needed salvation. He would have died on that cross if I were the only one who needed to be saved. Because of His great love for us, Jesus was punished in our place. Read this verse:
John 3:16(KJV)"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life"
Jesus' death gives us the opportunity to have eternal life with God. Eternal life in heaven is free. No rent or house mortgages, no electric bills, and no entrance fee to get there! There is nothing we can pay or do to get to heaven except to Believe in Jesus who is God the Son, who came to earth for us. We must only accept His gift of salvation. Here are the five parts to accepting this gift.

Here are the "5 Steps to Salvation"

Step 1. Hearing: We must hear and learn about Jesus if we are to become His followers.
Read: Romans 10 : 14 and 17

14 "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?"
17 "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."

Step 2 Beleiving/ Faith: Once we have heard about Jesus we must decide if we beleive in Him or not. If we beleive Jesus is God the Son, that is called faith.

Read Mark 16:16 "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."

Step 3 Repenting: When we repent it means we turn around from a life of sinning and start living a life doing what God wants. We must be truly sorry for our sins and seek God's forgiveness.

Read Acts 2:38"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."

Step 4 Confessing: When we confess our sins to Jesus, it means we tell God that we know we have messed up. We are admitting to God that we are sinners and that we need a Savior. And when Jesus forgives us, we want to confess to others, to tell others, what Jesus has done for us.

Read Romans 10:9-10 "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

Step 5 Being Baptized: Jesus Himself was baptized and commands that we are also to be baptized. When we are baptized we identify with Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection, Jesus forgives our sins, and He gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit and eternal life.

Read Acts 2:38 again, as well as Romans 6:4 and Titus 3:4-5
Acts 2:38"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."

Romans 6:4Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Titus 3:4-5 "But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;"

Once we have accepted God's gift of salvation, we can look forward to life in heaven with Him. Now saved, we want to continue to live a life here on earth that pleases Him . He doesn't expect you to be perfect, but he does expect you to keep on growing in Him!

From Joshua on Prayer:
This one is kind of a prayer I was praying and I was reading something and it lead me to think of this.

I make so many mistakes more than I care to remember,
and even though you know every single one of them
why is it so hard to admit them to you?
One thing I am thankful for is your grace that covered me
from the moment I realized I am nothing without you
and by your grace I am healed
and all the grief of this life can be taken care of.
God help me not to stumble,
make me a lighthouse for the lost ships,
give this mouth the words to speak,
give this heart a will to do
what you would have it do,
give this body the strength
to overcome all obstacles,
give this mind the knowledge
to understand your requests.
Take me, make me all that you need.

This road is so rocky,
the mountains are so high and steep,
this valley is so dark and deep,
this desert is so barren and lonely
and these waters are so wide.

God please give me the strength,
courage, will, and heart
to press on to the ultimate goal.
Be the sole of my shoe on this rocky road,
be the safety rope on this steep mountain,
be the light in the deep dark valley,
be the boat in the waters that are so wide
and be my comfort in this desert so lonely.
Do I ask too much?
Help me to be less of me
and more of you!

Thanks Joshua That is beautiful!

LET'S GO TO PRAYER!
I love talking to God! It is such a wonderful thing to be able to go to Him and just talk about EVERYTHING! I would never have gotten through raising seven beautiful children without constant communication with God. He was so faithful to me as I tried to raise my children, and He was so patient with me. He did a good job with them, in spite of all my mistakes. He does forgive us for our mistakes, and He works all things together for good to those who love and serve Him. My kids are a perfect proof of that. I made mistakes, He worked it together for good! Praise Him! For many there is no difficulty going to our heavenly Father in prayer, but for those of you who struggle with talking to God try these easy steps:
The Acronym for praying is A.C.T.S.
Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication
All verses today: New King James Version (NKJV)Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.

It is easy! Just talk to Him! He is eager to hear from you!
He is so wonderful. Don't be embarrassed to tell Him that He is! Find a Prayer Closet, A place to go and be alone with God. But also talk to Him in the midst of what ever you are doing. Pray without ceasing.

"For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers,"
Romans 1:9
"pray without ceasing," 1 Thessalonians 5:15

"I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience, as my forefathers did, as without ceasing I remember you in my prayers night and day,"
2 Timothy 1:3

1. ADORATION
Read these verses and Adore and Worship Our God

"God reigns over the nations;
God sits on His holy throne." Psalm 47

"For the word of the LORD is right,
And all His work is done in truth." Psalm 33:4

"Great is our Lord, and mighty in power;
His understanding is infinite." Psalm 147:5

2. Confession: Agree with God about your sin:
Psalm 32:5
God already knows about your sin, but He want you to talk to Him about it. He wants to hear from you and to give you peace.

I acknowledged my sin to You,
And my iniquity I have not hidden.
I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,”
And You forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah Psalm 32:5

And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors. Matthew 6:12

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

3. Thanksgiving: Show God your gratitude for His wisdom and your freedom in Him. Thank Him for all your many gifts, your family, friends, and those who are important in your life."

"Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name."
Psalm 100:4

"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—" 1 Timothy 2:1

"Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed." John 8:36

"He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love"
Colossians 1:13

"I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers," Philemon 1:4

"With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD : 'He is good; his love to Israel endures forever.'And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid."
Ezra 3:10-12

4. Supplication/ Requesting: Calling on God for Help

"But You, O LORD, do not be far from Me;O My Strength, hasten to help Me!"
Psalm 22:19

“For the Lord GOD will help Me; Therefore I will not be disgraced; Therefore I have set My face like a flint, And I know that I will not be ashamed."
Isaiah 50:7

"Then she came and worshiped Him, saying, 'Lord, help me!'”Matthew 15:25

"All Your commandments are faithful;They persecute me wrongfully; Help me!"
Psalm 119:86

Just remember, to glorify God learn to live this verse:

"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." Corinthians 10:31

Each New Day is Special

"The unfailing love of the LORD never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself, 'The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!'" Lamentations 3:22-24 (NASB)

Have a blessed time communing with God every day!