Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 16:32 (King James Version)
32He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Scripture of the Day

John 14:6 (King James Version)
6Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Scripture of the Day

Isaiah 45:5-6 (King James Version)
5I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me:
6That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the LORD, and there is none else.

Scripture of the Day

Malachi 3:10 (King James Version)
10Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 118:4-6 (King James Version)
4Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
5I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place.
6The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?

Scripture of the Day

1 Corinthians 12:7-27
7But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
8For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
10To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
11But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
12For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
13For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
14For the body is not one member, but many.
15If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
16And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
17If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
18But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
19And if they were all one member, where were the body?
20But now are they many members, yet but one body.
21And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
22Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
24For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked.
25That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
26And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
27Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

Scripture of the Day

Luke 2 (King James Version)
1And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
2(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
20And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
21And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Scripture of the Day

Luke 1 (King James Version)
Luke 1:5-80
5THERE was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.
6And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
7And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.
8And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course,
9According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.
10And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.
11And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
12And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
13But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
14And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.
15For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.
16And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.
17And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
18And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.
19And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.
20And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.
21And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple.
22And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.
23And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house.
24And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying,
25Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.
26And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,
27To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
28And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.
29And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.
30And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
31And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
32He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
33And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
34Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
35And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
36And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.
37For with God nothing shall be impossible.
38And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.
39And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;
40And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.
41And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:
42And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
43And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
44For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.
45And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.
46And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,
47And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
48For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
49For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name.
50And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.
51He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.
53He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.
54He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;
55As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.
56And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.
57Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.
58And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.
59And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.
60And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.
61And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name.
62And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.
63And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.
64And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.
65And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.
66And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.
67And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying,
68Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,
69And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;
70As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:
71That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;
72To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;
73The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,
74That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,
75In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.
76And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;
77To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,
78Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,
79To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
80And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.

Scripture of the Day

John 8:36 (King James Version)
36If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

Scripture of the Day

This is Kersten's favorite verse to quote, especially when one of the big kids has been naughty, so this post is for her! Love you princess!

John 8:32 (King James Version)
32And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Scripture of the Day

Joshua 22:5 (King James Version)
5But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.

Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 16:32 (King James Version)
32He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 16:25 (King James Version)
25There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 21:3 (King James Version)
3To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

Airline Horror Story 12/10/08

The Day………

........started out early, I hadn’t slept the best because I didn’t take a sleeping pill the night before, so I was up early. My dad leaves for work around 5:30 in the morning, and I heard him puttering around in the kitchen, and never really fell back asleep. I got up officially just before 7 and joined my mom for breakfast. After she left for work, I finished packing my bags, I got dressed and ready to go. I cleaned out my purse even.

I left the house around 9, I was driving to my Uncle Clark & Aunt Judy’s house so I could park my car there for the week and they chauffeured me to the airport. Got there around 1 and my flight was scheduled to leave at 3:05.

Well, the earlier flight for that day was still there when I got to the gate, as were two flights to Cleveland. All were having issues with weather, but in other locations and thus the planes weren’t coming to Indianapolis on time. I should have taken that as a sign I guess, but I was pretty confident that with two hours to kill, my plan would be ok. Plus, the counter people assured me, it would be on time.

Little did I know……….

I boarded my plan approximately 30 minutes late due to the three other above mentioned flights using our gate and coming in/out first. Figured 30 minutes was no big deal, right?

We take off and are in the air on our way to Houston, which is my scheduled layover before coming to Sacramento. Just before our arrival in Houston, the captain comes on the overhead speaker system and announces due to weather in Houston, they are placing planes in a holding pattern until it clears a little. Holding pattern means you make big circles in the sky……..along with a bunch of other airplanes. At one point, I counted seven of us circling, and that was just what I could see from my window, I am sure there were more.

So we circle, for about twenty minutes. The captain again comes on the overhead speaker system and announces that he is trying to contact flight control, we need to land now or we have to divert to go get more fuel. Groan!

So we began flying south and eventually landed at Ellington AFB. Now being that this isn’t a normal commercial airport, what do you suppose the fuel charge was there? DORKS! Don’t you think you could plan for this sort of thing?

Thirty minutes later, we are back in the air towards Houston and this time, they promptly allow us to land. Now originally, I had a little less than two hours layover time, by the time we taxied into our gate, I was down to 28 minutes and I had gate checked a bag, so I had to wait for it before I could be off. Mine was fifth off the car, thankfully, so I walked as fast as I could up the ramp and asked the agent what gate my next flight was at. “E23” he says. I was like, okay. Until I went to the main walkway of the airport, which had no walking escalators by the way, and realized I was at B66 and E23 was a long way off! Now I broke my toe two weeks ago and for the most part, it doesn’t bother me except when you try to run. When you run, you use your toes. That wasn’t working so well, so I was doing a half walk, half (barely) jog to try to get to E23 when I realize the terminals aren’t connected and I need to take a Tram over to the main airport. Sigh! Could this day get worse?

So I got on the tram and it is semi-fast, so I was figuring I’d be okay. We went to C terminal, stopped. We were then on our way again to stop at D & E terminals. Yeah, that wasn’t so bad! Only, it’s the entrance to the airport, so it’s just the beginning of these terminals. “Oh Dear Lord, I need to make my plane!” I say.

So, I begin walking as fast as I can across the airport, headed for terminal E. Finally a walking escalator comes into view. I hop on, twice and end up at E12. I was thinking, “Oh my goodness, I still have a long ways to go!” As I rounded the corner, gate E24 comes into view. “YES!” The gates now go backwards and I am only two away. “Thank you Lord Jesus!”

The gals waiting at the check in kiosk see me coming and smile as I come huffing up to the podium. “Just in time,” they say. I told them, “I came from B terminal and could it have been any farther away?”

So I board the plane, thankfully my seat is the first row after first class, so I didn’t have to wiggle through the whole plane. I sit down next to a couple and they notice my breathing. They greet me and congratulate me for making it. I grab a few things from my bag and get settled in. I offer them a peanut butter kiss, which I promptly learn, does not have the same name in every country. In Australia, they are called cyclops cookies because they look like they have an eye, one eye. Cute huh?

A few minutes later, they close the door to the plane and we back away for the gate. This is the beginning of a five hour wait on the tarmac. You see, it was snowing in Houston. One of few days a year this ever happens. Planes need to be de-iced. It was going to be awhile.

So I am sitting in the row directly behind first class, aisle seat. I am sitting next to a real nice American couple who currently live in Australia. They were very nice. It was a good thing we got along; the next nine hours we spent together were long, but amusing.

So after rolling away from the gate, the captain comes on the overhead and says we are going to just wait a little bit on the tarmac as there is a little backup. Little, yeah right! I swear, they load you up on a plane, trapped like sardines in a tin can, to make you sit on the tarmac. Why of why can we not sit in the airport where we have access to food and bathrooms? Seriously!

So we sit. And we sit some more. And we sit some more. Finally, the captain comes on again and says we are moving to the runway. Hurray! Right? Not so much. He comes on and says that we have to wait to be deiced. I am thinking, okay, this is a good thing, the flakes are huge and building up rapidly, I am sure that affects the way the plane flies. Well, little did I know that Houston barely gets any snow, so they only have once de-icer. ONE! At this point, we didn’t know where we were in the line, just that we were in it and waiting our turn. The flight attendants decide to pass out the headsets at this point and not charge the normal $1 fee. Sweet!

An hour later, the captain comes overhead again and says because of the delay, they are going to let us have beverage service while on the ground. Cool, I was getting thirsty. A few minutes after that, he announces we would do food service too. Okay, I think, it will help pass the time. A few minutes after that, he comes on again and retracts both the food and drink. We think, “Sweet, we are out of here!” Uh, not so much!

So five minutes after that, he comes on yet again and says we are pulling ahead a few hundred yards and then they would begin food and beverage service. Turns out, we are now eighth in line and it is taking twenty minutes per plane to be de-iced. This means we have nearly three hours before it is our turn. Great, just great!

So the meal is a chicken enchilada, only it is not like any enchilada I have ever had. It had rice, chicken, cheese, onions, jalapenos, corn and tomatoes. Weird! I ended up dumping everything out and ate just the tortilla which still had the cheese and rice attached. Not too bad. We also had a lettuce salad and a Twix bite-sized bar for dessert.

So about two and a half hours later, it is our turn. The captain has to turn off the engine and the overhead air so the stuff doesn’t come in the plane. Well, you can still smell it and it smells like burnt antifreeze. Not the best smell in the world.

We finally get to taxi to the runway and take off. We all clap! Yeah, we are in the air. I finally decide to get some rest, it is now 9pm and I have been up since about 5am. I am ready for a nap. I wake up about two and a half hours later. I decide to break out my book and read for awhile. We still had about an hour or so to our destination. The captain comes on the overhead. Are you kidding me? Folks, we have to make a detour to Las Vegas to refuel. After five hours sitting on the tarmac, they apparently thought we still had enough when we left Houston, but nope! Our captain underestimated fuel due to what he said was tough headwinds. Right…………seriously?

So, we have to land in Vegas. I asked our flight attendant if there was any chance that we’d get to go to the casino. Nope, we didn’t even go to a gate. So about forty-five minutes later we are back in the air headed to Sacramento once again.

We land without difficulty and finally, after nine hours of sitting in a sardine can, we deplane. Mark is waiting for me at the bottom of the escalator and I was never so happy to see my brother in my whole life. It was 3am on Thursday, I had been up almost hours. We head toward the baggage carousels and wait for luggage to start appearing.

Luggage comes after about fifteen minutes. I anxiously await my bag. I had barely made the plane in Houston; I was worried my luggage didn’t. Well, I had reason to worry. I watched everyone else’ back go round and round on the carousel. There were no bags left and I and three others were still standing there. Uh oh! We walk over to the check in counter to check with the Continental staff about my bag. All bags are off the plane, no bags in the back. It did not come on an earlier flight, it was likely on the next flight, which wasn’t due until about 5:30am. We opt not to wait at the airport and fill out a claim tag to have my bag delivered to Mark’s apartment once it gets to Sacramento.

We depart the airport and head for Walmart, it is now nearly 4am and I have no clothes. I had to buy pajamas, a pair of underwear and a shirt. I wanted to be safe as I wasn’t sure when my bag would arrive at Mark’s. Well, good thing I played it safe. My bag did not arrive until later in the day and I left Mark’s around 9am as my Grama and I had 10:30am nail appointments. These things are important you know! My bag did arrive, and that was the important thing, Mark brought it to me later.

So, I barely got any sleep, my body clock said “wakey, wakey!” at 7am, which would be 9am Central time, and I had only slept about two hours. I was tired, but couldn’t sleep. Don’t you just hate that?

Well, that is essentially the 24 hour horror story. I left out the details about keeping in touch with my family, but I was texting and making several phone calls along the way. Good thing nights and weekends are free! HA!

Thanks for reading! Feel free to post your airline horror stories!

California extended

So Tuesday was the day I was packing, doing laundry, getting everything together to go back to the Midwest when my Grama had an idea. She kept wishing I could stay longer and I told her, well, technically, I could stay until Saturday.
She said immediately, "Let's do it."
So off to the computer I went to change my flights and it is a done deal.
I am staying until Saturday, I have to be back in Minnesota for Jessica's graduation party, and I also have an appointment with my doctor on Monday.
So a few more days of California, though its been more like home.
The weather is like Minnesota in December, which is typically occurring in February around here. So I haven't been without the cold and snow, just not AS cold as Rochester, which I am grateful for!
See everyone on Saturday or Sunday!

Scripture of the Day

Luke 6:30 (King James Version)
30Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.

Happy Birthday Too..............

My stepbrother Teddy!

He is the big 32 today, making him seven months older than me dude!
It tottaly catches up on you fast!!

Hope you enjoy your day!

Scripture of the Day

John 1:12-13 (King James Version)
12But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
13Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Prayer Needed ~ Grama Whittle

I got a text from my friend Jessica a couple days ago about her Grama Whittle.
She was taken to the hospital via ambulance with a kidney stone the size of a golf ball.
They did a bunch of tests to check things out as she is close to 80 before doing the surgery and found blood clots in her lungs.
Not sure how they will proceed at the moment, but please keep her in prayer.

This is the same Whittle family that lost Grampa about a year ago, so they are somewhat reliving those days and its a tough time for the family.
Please keep them in your prayers as well.

Thanks for your faithfulness

Prayer Needed ~ knee surgery

My friend Tamie's dad had surgery on his knee yesterday, replacement. Below is an update from her. Please continue to pray for the healing and rehab process.

Hey everybody the surgery went great! He had a spinal so he remembers hearing the hammer on his knee and that is about it. Oh, he remembers the cute nurse he got to hug when they did the spinal too! LOL! They already started him on a machine that moves his knee slowly. This morning he will be up with therapy actually walking on it with a walker. His feeling is back in his toes which is unfortunate for the nurses on his floor. He has very sensitive feet so we all knew when they were playing with his feet last night that he couldn't feel it yet from the spinal, otherwise somebody would've gotten a kick in the face! LOL! We are past the surgery, but now the therapy fun starts and more pain. They are concerned at this point with swelling, infection and blood clots. So, continued prayer would be wonderful as we are not out of the woods, but at least the surgery part is over. Thanks for the prayers!
Tamie

Scripture of the Day

I felt like today, the entire chapter of Romans 12 really hit home and wanted to share with the rest of you.

Romans 12:1-18 (King James Version)
1I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
2And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
3For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
4For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
5So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
6Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
7Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
8Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
9Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
10Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; 11Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
12Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
13Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
14Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
15Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
16Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
17Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
18If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

Happy Birthday to..........

My nephew Alex. He is eight years old today!

Can't believe how fast the time flies! Hope you enjoy your day. Love you!

Scripture of the Day

1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (King James Version)
27But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
28And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
29That no flesh should glory in his presence.

Scripture of the Day

Jeremiah 29:11 (King James Version)
11For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Finally!

Well, after a VERY long day, I finally made it to Sacramento at 3AM!

You read that right, 3AM.

I was supposed to get in at 8:30PM.

Kind of a big time difference.

Needless to say, there is a big story, but I don't have time to get into that at the moment. I'll try to get online from my Grama's later, after I get some sleep.

Happy Birthday to..........

Elmo! Er, I mean, Brian Johnson! He is my sister-in-law Brenda's dad, my Dad's best friend, and family for years before my brother married his sister. I can't remember a time we didn't know the Johnsons! Hope you enjoy your day! And it's okay that you like Elmo at your age!

Happy Birthday to..........

My niece Maya! She is five today! Wow that went fast! Have a great birthday sweetie, hope to see you at Christmas!

Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 8:13 (King James Version)
13The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

Scripture of the Day

Romans 5:19 (King James Version)
19For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

Trip to California

Well, my Grama Connie heard I had time off of work and offered to buy me a ticket to California.
Who am I to say no??

I only got to see my California family three days this year, so an extra six days with them will be much appreciated.

I leave Wednesday the 10th and return Wednesday the 17th.

Wish me safe travels.

Scripture of the Day

Isaiah 26:8-9 (King James Version)
8Yea, in the way of thy judgments, O LORD, have we waited for thee; the desire of our soul is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee.
9With my soul have I desired thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek thee early: for when thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness.

Not Me Monday!

Well, this isn't a regular post as I don't have a decent computer to type on, let alone pull all my pictures and graphics together on, but I thought I'd give you at least one "Not Me" for the week.

I did not stay in my pajamas all day today doing only the dishes and one load of laundry and nothing else.
Nope, not me!

Head on over to MckMama's blog to follow other "Not Me" posts and get your kicks for the week. I'll try to have a regular post next week!

Update on Sara 12/8/08

Well, to make a long story short, Sara is back in the hospital.

Last Tuesday, she went to the ER after work, her second day back, with that same pain in the groin she had that started this whole mess in the first place.
They of course admitted her, back to her favorite ICU of course. Her nurses were happy, but sad to see her.
They did a biopsy of her right leg where the graft is and results aren't back yet. Some drug they gave her gave her her biggest allergic reaction yet, and she had welts, not just hives, break out all over.
She is doing better now, however, as before, she is still a mystery to them
Tomorrow they are doing a bronchoscopy, not sure what they hope to determine from that.

Please just be in prayer for her once again.
I'll try to keep you posted on her progress.

Scripture of the Day

Ephesians 5:1-2 (King James Version)
1Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
2And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 10:14 (King James Version)
14Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.

Scripture of the Day

Mark 12:30 (King James Version)
30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

Happy Birthday to..........

My sister Brenda, she loves the camera! Hope you enjoy your day!

Scripture of the Day

Luke 12:8 (King James Version)
8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:

Scripture of the Day

John 14:6 (King James Version)
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 4:19 (King James Version)
19The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.

Not Me Monday! 12/1/08

I did not stub my toe on Monday, only to come to realize I broke my toe when the pain exceeded my tolerance level. I did not go to the doctor for an x-ray knowing they couldn't do anything just to get the protective sexy shoe.

I did not proceed to go shopping at four different stores the same day. I also did not ride the little scooter in Walmart while shopping. Nope, I definitely walked!

I did not joyfully grin on the inside when my doctor suggested I take a five week medical leave from work. I didn't. I argued, I swear I did.

I then did not panic at all the things I have to do in order to take a five week medical leave from work.

I also did not panic when I realized that during my five week medical leave, I will miss CHRISTmas with some friends and family. I did not think about shopping very quickly!

Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 13:11 (King James Version)
11Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.

Happy Birthday to..........

Grampa Wood, aka Grumpy!Hope you enjoye your day!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 91:1-2 (King James Version)
1He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

Happy Birthday to..........

My brother Al! This picture is of him playing with his son and the new dump truck Austin got for his birthday. He is a good dad! Hope you enjoy your day!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 107:1 (King James Version)
1O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

Update on Sara ~ 11/28/08

Well, Sara is doing awesome!
She has been out of the hospital for three weeks now. This past Saturday, she went to her own home having spent a little more than two weeks at her parent's home.
She is up walking like a pro and looking real good.
She returns to work on Monday, December 1st.

Thanks again for all your prayers for Sara and her family during her ordeal. Continued healing for the leg would be something you could continue to pray for.

Happy Birthday to..........

Happy Anniversary to.................

Grama & Grampa Wood! They celebrate sixteen years today! Congratulations and hope for many more!

Scripture of the Day

Romans 5:1-2 (King James Version)
1Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
2By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Favorite Foto Friday ~ 11/28/08

This week, I am going to post pictures of the many animals (or as Kersten would say, aminals) in my life. None of these are owned by me, they belong to family or friends. They can all be cute and cuddly one minute, and rascals the next. Enjoy!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 100 (King James Version)
1Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

Happy Thanksgiving!

So I posted the normal picture on the food blog, here is the fun one!

Happy Turkey Day!!

Traveling

So, I will be traveling to Sterling this weekend and then on to my Mom's. I'll be there for most of December. I was granted five weeks medical leave from work to regroup as things have been a little out of control.
So I probably won't be blogging as much in December, though I do have the daily scripture posts ready to go and will get online from time to time.
Pray for me to have safe travels and good regroup time.
Thanks!

Prayer Needed ~ Jen

My blog friend Jen is pregnant with her fourth child. There are some complicating factors this time around and it is possible she may not carry this child to term.

She is on bedrest right now, and could be for the remainder of the pregnancy, which is still quite a long time.

Please keep Jen in your prayers. Pray that baby will hang in there. Pray that she won't go crazy on bedrest. Pray that her other three children will be able to deal with Mommy being on bedrest. Pray that they can line up some helpers for the kids.

Thanks once again for your faithfulness

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 119:11 (King James Version)
11Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

Soles4Souls

Well, I read over on Angie's blog that she is helping out a special project and I decided, this was something I could do too.

And to that end, I wanted you to know about it because really, $5 for two pairs of shoes is ridiculously cheap. And you can help kids who have no shoes at all. The goal is 50,000 pairs of shoes in 50 days.

Please consider donating to the Soles4Souls campaign this holiday season, donate yourself, donate in someone's honor, whatever, it is a worthy cause, just do it.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving week!

Scripture of the Day

Hebrews 11:6 (King James Version)
6But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 103:1 (King James Version)
1Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name

Not Me Monday! 11/24/08

It is time for my second installment of "Not Me" Monday. I enjoyed the first one and linking to MckMama's blog, she had almost 300 people signed up as doing this. I think it caught on!

So to start off this week...........

I did not go to the store to buy a turkey for Thanksgiving based on the super awesome price of $0.68 a pound only to discover upon checkout that I had not read the fine print and you had to buy $50 of groceries first. This was my last stop of the day, I had already bought my groceries elsewhere. RAR! I had to pay $0.88 a pound instead.

I did not watch Anne of Green Gables for the 100th time and cry when Matthew died.

I did not go through all the things I have collected this year for CHRISTmas gifts and start wrapping those I had completed. **Please note, I am a last minute kind of girl on the wrapping thing usually and I am never this prepared with having gifts so early either.

I did not ask my neighbor if I could put a bag of garbage in his can this week because I forgot to pay my garbage bill.

I did not groan when I found out for the fourth time in as many years, my desk is once again moving down the hall. (I guess its a good way to clean out the clutter, right?)

I did not do a "happy dance" at my desk on Monday because my PTO accrual is finally getting a bump after ten years. The equivelent of an extra week over a year is now added to my balance.

I did not laugh when the ten-year-old brought up a topic that a ten-year-old should not know about and then continue to explain that the topic was not appropriate for her age while trying to not laugh. Mommy and Mamie were so NOT prepared for that comment and Mommy couldn't even get a word out!

I did not do a half "happy dance" while sitting in my car driving to the store because Kristin called to tell me that after ten very long years, we have finally been granted parking on campus at work!!

I did not do a "happy dance" when the price of gas came down to $1.69 for the first time in four years! This is something I was sure I'd never see again. Hoping to see the continuance of the prices lowering, and staying this way.

I did not laugh when the 19-month old walked into the living room carrying two drawers from his Sissy's makeup table and literally chuck them at his ten-year-old sister. I didn't! And neither did Mom or Dad.

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 62:7 (King James Version)
7In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.

Contest

MckMama is having a contest and to enter, you have to have a blog and make an entry that links to her blog.
Well, I have done that many a time, so why not today, right?

Please check out MckMama's blog sometime, they are living with a miracle, baby Stellan, and enjoying life to its fullest.

Have a good weekend!

Scripture of the Day

John 17:17 (King James Version)
17Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

Scripture of the Day

2 Corinthians 5:17 (King James Version)
17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Scripture of the Day

Matthew 22:37 (King James Version)
37Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

Gianna Jessen ~ Abortion Survivor

You really need to see these videos!

Part 1

Part 2

She is an amazing testimony of life.

Scripture of the Day

Isaiah 41:10 (King James Version)
10Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Prayer Needed ~ Fleming Family

My blog friend Adrienne and her husband Jim and son Owen need your prayers.

They are in the process of adopting a baby girl and all things indicated they would be bringing her home today and so far, the mother has not signed papers and has actually taken her home with her at this time.

Adrienne is heartbroken and devastated. While they do not know if this will be permanent or not, the limbo is tough and all the dreams are being crushed.

Please pray that the birth mother will make the right decision about this child. This baby is loved by two mommies and one way or the other, one will be missing a chunk of her heart.

Thanks for your faithfulness

Tag! You're It!

I was tagged by my friend Elisabeth. She is a friend from White Bear.

Here's how it works.
1) Link to the person who tagged you.
2) Post the rules on your blog (copy and paste 1-6).
3) Write 6 random things about yourself (see below).
4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them.
5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

So six random things............
1) I have worked at Mayo Clinic for ten years now.
2) I have seven siblings, well, if you count my sisters-in-law, that makes for eleven.
~Mark & Ashly
~Ted & Sharon
~Mario
~Don & Kris
~Al & Brenda
~Marissa
~Elijah
3) I blog daily now, it is amazing the things you can find to write about!
4) My favorite candy is the bananas from Runts. You can buy just bananas at specialty stores and MMMMMM, yummy!
5) I have owned three brand new cars in my time on earth thus far.
6) I would love to travel the world, especially where my roots are over in Europe.

So now I am tagging the following:
Wendi
Doni
Heather
Cayman's Mommy
Jessica
Rachel

Scripture of the Day

Isaiah 12:1-2 (King James Version)
1And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.
2Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

Olive Garden ~ Pittman Style

So this weekend at the Peaslee's, I decided since we love Olive Garden so much, we'd do our own soup, salad and breadsticks night.
I started researching the web for recipes a couple of weeks ago after a girl at work brought in a version of Zuppa Toscana that was awesome. She gave me that recipe, and then I went searching for a Pasta Fajoli recipe, and the salad dressing recipe.
The recipes were close to the Olive Garden version, and we had a plethora of food to go around since I made two kinds of soup, so we actually had it for dinner Saturday night and again for lunch on Sunday.
I meant to bring home a bowl of soup for my lunch today, but I forgot it, so I imagine Fred will take it or Laurie will eat it.
It was so yummy, we all enjoyed our "Olive Garden" feast, for a much more affordable price!
I keep forgetting to take pictures when I make these things, so maybe I'll remember the next time.

Ten Years!

Holy Cow!

Ten Years!

Ten years at one job!

I cannot believe I have been here for ten years already. Time kinda flies right by.

I remember when I first started that I wasn't sure I'd even stick it out for one year. I didn't know a soul when I moved to Rochester, but that sure has changed!

So, Congrats to me, for ten years of dedication, of blood, sweat and tears.

National Adoption Month

Did you know November is National Adoption Month?

I didn't. But I do now!

This year they are promoting teen adoption. And while I feel that is a worthy endeavor, I also feel it is not for everyone, and thus, the reason I would like a child under two.

Please consider adoption this month. If you don't feel like your family is complete or if you are having trouble starting or adding to your family, this is such a wonderful gift, for both you and the child.

Not Me Monday!

I did not make my doctor order me another CT scan for my left lower quadrant pain which turned out to be completely normal. I did not ask him to order me a kidney ultrasound, but he did order it, and it too was completely normal. I am normal, can you believe that? I am still flabbergasted at what could be causing my pain. Scar tissue is about the only thing I can figure is left as a problem. GI doctor is testing a theory of my colon spasming by treating with a medication for now, I'll let you know how it goes.

I did not make the kids do a scavenger hunt for our Harvest Party. I then also did not scold Joey for being a butthead about not properly participating. I didn't. Teenagers I tell ya!

I did not forget to mail a card to my brother for his 15th birthday. I didn't. I love you buddy!

I did not go to the doctor for my sprained hand just so I could get the splint as part of the cost of the visit. I didn't.

I did not raid my niece's Halloween candy for my sweet tooth craving this weekend. I didn't.

I did not fill up the gas tank on my Honda and do a "happy dance" right there when it came to only $25.

Nope, not me!

Scripture of the Day

Proverbs 15:33 (King James Version)
33The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

Prayer Requests for 11/16/08

I thought I'd do a catch-all post to consolidate all the current requests I have out there to make it easier for you to be praying.

Sara ~ Out of the hospital, at her parents house continuing to heal.

my brother Mario ~ he is going through a divorce. There is a child involved. Things are a little rough for him right now.

my brother Mark ~ Still without a job, actively looking, but trying to seek God's will in what he should do. Also, an unspoken.

my brother's friend and his wife ~ still dealing with infidelity issues and possibility of divorce. A child involved, plus one on the way.

me ~ continued good health, stress management, time management, the adoption process and an unspoken.

an unspoken request from a family friend

baby Emmalina ~ got transferred from Mayo to Mankato, almost ready to go home, about another week or so they hope.

My mom ~ hoping to get the pregnancy center idea off the ground. Pray for confirmation and support.

Michelle ~ still in the hospital on bedrest, but remaining stable. Doctors say baby is viable at this point, of course, I say he was viable quite awhile ago as I have seen many micro-preemie miracles. Pray that Baby Robbins stays put for as long as possible to have as few issues as possible once on the outside. And pray for Rob, running ragged trying to be with Michelle and take care of their daughter and working.

Grama Connie ~ still fighting the brain tumor and the effects of radiation. Last MRI didn't show anything different. Holding stable on treatment for now. Pray that the next MRI will show improvement.

Wendi, Joia, Melannie and Sooki ~ Pregnant friends and family. Pray that things continue to go well for them and they have safe deliveries.

Adrienne & Jim ~ Meeting their daughter today. Pray that the adoption process is quick and smooth.

Updated Baby Boom

**originally posted 10/8/08, updated to reflect those that have been born and some new additions, I tinted the new updates pink. *******************************************************
Well, it seems like a bunch of people I know are having babies this year. Is there something in the water? Not sure that theory would work since most of these people live nowhere near the others. That being said, I cannot believe I know this many kids born this year.

January thru June:
Gwyneth, born 1/8/08, parents are Nate & Tricia
Tori, born 2/5/08, parents are Jim & Doni, siblings are Tanner and Ty
Ella & Beck, born 2/20/08, parents are Debbie & Brandon, siblings are Hannah and Ben
Cayman, born 3/8/08, parents are Mike & Kristen
Abigail, born 4/3/08, parents are Sonia & Jong, siblings are Isaac and Angel Rachel(Isaac's twin) Ethan, born 4/11/08, parents are Eric & Priscilla
Isaac, born 5/7/08, parents are John & Wendi
Olivia, born ______, parents are Paul & Heather, siblings are April, Amanda, Daniel, Michael and Emma

July thru September:
Carson - born 7/4/08, parents are Jen & Bob, sibling is Dylan
Jameson - born 7/13/08, parents are Todd & Melisa, siblings are Nicholas and Zachary Emmalina - born 7/22/08, parents are Sandy & Larry
Jolie - born 9/8/08, parents are Kim & Josh, siblings are Cody and Zoe
Brooke - born 9/23/08, parents are Kathy & Scott, siblings are Hannah and Brandon
Siri - born 9/26/08, parents are Kevin & Lindsey, sibling is Kaia
Max - born 9/26/08, parents are Jen & Tony, siblings are *Angels Emily, Alexander and Christopher*(triplets)

October:
Helen - born 10/1/08, parents are Jess & Kevin
Jasmin - born 10/7/08, parents are Russ & Kelly
Colette (aka Coco) - born 10/13/08, parents are Jen & Chuck, siblings are Samantha and Ben

Still to come anytime now:
Baby Girl Fleming, parents are Adrienne & Jim, sibling is Owen
Baby Christensen, parents are John & Sooki, siblings are Wyatt and Marshall

Coming this winter: (these are people I work with)
Baby Girl Meier, parents are Daniela & (don't know her husband's name), siblings are Nathaniel and Sebastian
Baby Oglesbee, parents are Devin & (don't know his wife's name)
Baby Quade, parents are Marie & (don't know husband's name)

Coming in 2009:
Baby Wyatt, parents are Melannie & Angus
Baby Elijah, parents are John & Wendi, sibling is Isaac
Baby Dooley, parents are Philip & Joia, sibling is Keenan
Baby GIRL Norlien, parents are Josh & Angela, siblings are Shelby, Julia and Mylee
Baby GIRL Scrabeck, parents are Dave & Alissa
Baby Charles, parents are Tre and Jenny, siblings are *Angel Catie* and Izzy
Baby BOY Robbins, parents are Rob & Michelle, siblings are *Angel Hannah* and Brenna


Unfortunately, most of these babies live far, far away and I don't get to see them, so hopefully someone nearby will have a baby for me to spoil soon!!

Scripture of the Day

Romans 5:15 (King James Version)
15But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.

National Adoption Day

Today is National Adoption Day.

Being that I am in the process of adopting, I flet it was worth noting.

I have many friends that have adopted as well. What a gift!

Scripture of the Day

Matthew 7:7-8 (King James Version)
7Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
8For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Emma's Benefit and Celebration is TODAY!!

If you are going to be in the St. Peter area of Minnesota today, please stop in at Emma's benefit! It is a good cause, celebrating the life of a miracle!

If you cannot make the benefit, please consider going online to make a donation. Have a good weekend everyone!

To be healthy or not?

My friend Rachel sent me an article about MSG and aspartame the other day. And while I know they are not healthy, it is really hard to find foods that do not contain these and other harmful products in them to eat.

There is no way I can possibly afford to be as healthy as I want, but I am trying, with baby steps, to be more healthy.

Please be vigilant in looking at product labels and consider the things you are putting in your body. The only person that can protect you is you. The government is certainly not looking out for our best interest.

Happy Birthday to..........

Laurie!!!

This picture is of her with her son Jess, aka, my nephew Jess, the naughty boy! Hope you enjoy your day!!

Scripture of the Day

Romans 15:7 (King James Version)
7Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.

Scripture of the Day

Philippians 4:13 (King James Version)
13I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

For Those Wondering........

If the election turned out according to God's will? Well, noone really has that answer, but senior pastor Dutch Sheets from Freedom Church in Colorado Springs typed up a response that I think will resonate with many.

You can click HERE to read it.

As a people, we need to respect President-elect Obama, but we certainly don't have to agree with the things he does.

Please be in prayer during this time of transition. Pray that he'll pick people for his Cabinet that are worthy and will make good decisions. Pray that he'll make good decisions. And most of all, pray for our country to turn their hearts toward God.

Restaurant Update

So a few months ago I blogged about the lack of new restaurants coming to Rochester.
Well, not that I probably had anything to do with it, but, two new ones are in the works!
Two of the restaurants I was hoping would consider Rochester even!

What are they you ask?

Texas Roadhouse
&
CiCi's Pizza

YEAH! Really looking forward to the new editions. Keep them coming!

Scripture of the Day

Acts 17:27 (King James Version)
27That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:

Prayer Needed ~ My Mom

Hi everyone~
My Mom asked me to post a request on here about her. She is currently looking for a new job now that she has her Master's degree, and so far, the search has not been fruitful.
She was praying the other day about a job she had applied for over by Mt. Carmel, which if she had gotten, they would have moved there, and she felt God saying she was needed to be a light in Princeton.
So, she is pretty sure that job is a bust.

She has been having a burden lately to open up a Pregnancy Center. The kind to counsel women with options for their unintended pregnancies. About twenty years ago, she volunteered at a place like this in Eau Claire. I remember being there with her some of the time and I loved the idea of helping these women make better choices than abortion.
So, in order for this to be the right decision, several things will need to happen. She wants confirmation in a Biblical form or prophesy. She feels the Lord giving her names of people who could help support or volunteer or get this started and if it is meant to be, the Lord will either minister directly to these people and they will come to her or, she'll get confirmation from someone else about the situation.
Also, the building she is considering has been empty the entire time they have lived in Princeton. As a non-profit, she is hoping that the owners of the building would consider little or no rent in order to support this ministry. And it would need renovations, so funds for that would be necessary, my Dad and other church members could assist with the labor.
And funding. She does not want to be government sponsored in any way so as to retain the right to bring God into the picture when talking with these women. She wants this ministry to be completely Christian in origin with noone being able to tell her what she can and cannot say. Please pray that local churches and ministries would step up in support of this.
And volunteers. We need more women to make this possible! More women with a heart to counsel and help the potential clients coming through the door.
And donations. We need some medical equipment to help take care of the women coming through the door. We would be providing pregnancy tests and hopefully confirmation ultrasound. Medical equipment and supplies are not cheap, so pray the Lord would make a way. We would also loan out baby furniture, so things like cribs, high chairs, strollers, rockers, etc, would all be necessary to be able to loan to these mothers.

I know this is alot of information, but I believe if we are specific with our prayers, God will provide the specifics. If this is meant to be, all these things will fall into place.

This sort of ties into me as well, as I have had a similar burden since watching my Mom volunteer all those years ago. I wasn't old enough then, but I am now and would love to be part of this ministry. If it is God's will, I believe he can make a way for me to be there to help my Mom and provide for both of us financially.

Thanks for your faithfulness.

Today's Forecast

My friend Kristin and I always laugh when this is the forecast. Today, when I walked out the door, I was greeted by it. So I logged onto the website that predicts this sort of thing, and sure enough, it was forecasted! We love ice pellets!

Tuesday Funnies ~ Ageless Wit & Observations

If you don't read the newspaper you are uninformed, if you do read the newspaper you are misinformed.

-- Mark Twain
Suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of Congress....But then I repeat myself.
--Mark Twain
I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle.
--Winston Churchill
A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul.
--George Bernard Shaw
A liberal is someone who feels a great debt to his fellow man, which debt he proposes to pay off with your money.

--G Gordon Liddy
Democracy must be something more than two wolves and a sheep voting on what to have for dinner.
--James Bovard, Civil Libertarian (1994)
Foreign aid might be defined as a transfer of money from poor people in rich countries to rich people in poor countries.
--Douglas Casey, Classmate of Bill Clinton at Georgetown University
Giving money and power to government is like giving whiskey and car keys to teenage boys.
--P.J. O'Rourke, Civil Libertarian
Government is the great fiction, through which everybody endeavors to live at the expense of everybody else.
--Frederic Bastiat, French Economist (1801-1850)
Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.

--Ronald Reagan (1986)
I don't make jokes. I just watch the government and report the facts.

--Will Rogers
If you think health care is expensive now, wait until you see what it costs when it's free!

--P.J. O'Rourke
In general, the art of government consists of taking as much money as possible from one party of the citizens to give to the other.

--Voltaire (1764)
Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you!

--Pericles (430 B.C.)
No man's life, liberty, or property is safe while the legislature is in session.

--Mark Twain (1866)
Talk is cheap...except when Congress does it.

--Unknown
The government is like a baby's alimentary canal, with a happy appetite at one end and no responsibility at the other.

--Ronald Reagan
The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of the blessings. The inherent blessing of socialism is the equal sharing of misery.
--Winston Churchill
The only difference between a tax man and a taxidermist is that the taxidermist leaves the skin. --Mark Twain
The ultimate result of shielding men from the effects of folly is to fill the world with fools.

--Herbert Spencer, English Philosopher (1820-1903)
There is no distinctly Native American criminal class...save Congress.

--Mark Twain
What this country needs are more unemployed politicians.

--Edward Langley, Artist (1928 - 1995)

A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.

--Thomas Jefferson

Scripture of the Day

Ephesians 2:10 (King James Version)
10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Veteran's Day

Today is a day of remembering.

Remembering those who have fought for our country's freedom and died.

Remembering those who fought and came home scarred and broken.

Remembering those still fighting for our country's freedom today.

Today is Veteran's Day. I am willing to bet you know at least one person in the military, past or present. Make sure you tell them you appreciate all they do. Make sure you hug them. Make sure you honor them.

Happy Veteran's Day to my stepbrother Donald, member of the Air Force.

This post dedicated to my Uncle Mitch, who survived the Marines shortly after Vietnam, but could not overcome cancer. And to my great Uncle Greg, who died while in service in Vietnam.

Gas is under $2!

Can you believe it!?

Haven't seen prices like this for years!

Keep coming down big oil!!

Top Ten Personal Lists

A blog buddy posted a similar post and encouraged us to follow suit, so I did.
Enjoy!!
************************************

What I'm not crazy about
1. Crowds (especially during the holidays).
2. Not living close to family.
3. Being single.
4. Not being a mommy.
5. Mail (bill) piles.
6. Unfinished projects (which I have so many of).
7. Nasty freezing cold Minnesota winters.
8. Nuts in baked goods.
9. A wrinkle in my sock.
10. Out of state drivers (drive in Rochester sometime, it’s crazy).


Modern Conveniences I wouldn't want to live without
1. Laptop.
2. Indoor Plumbing and toilet paper.
3. Digital camera.
4. Cell Phone.
5. Disposable Diapers.
6. Washer & Dryer.
7. Airplanes.
8. Furnace (heat and AC).
9. My Car.
10. Email/Internet.


Things to see & do before I die
1. Cruise to Alaska.
2. Cruise the Mediterranean.
3. Cruise the Caribbean.
4. Visit Australia/New Zealand.
5. Tour Europe.
6. Tour Hawaii.
7. Visit my blog buddies.
8. Adopt a Guatemalan baby.
9. Tour the Eastern coast of the US.
10. Tour the Amazon


Things I would totally SPLURGE on if funds were unlimited
1. Build my dream house.
2. Brand new furniture from Ashley.
3. Regular spa treatments (to include massage and mani/pedicures).
4. Personal trainer/chef.
5. Travel the world.
6. Clothes.
7. My Lexus GS400.
8. Adoption.
9. Visiting all the amusement parks in the country to ride every roller coaster out there.
10. A Maid.


The BEST feelings
1. Strong connection to God.
2. Being with family.
3. A totally clean and organized house (I know, I know, like it will happen!).
4. Mostly good health.
5. Hearing the nieces and nephews laugh.
6. Christmas time (not the commercialism aspect).
7. Snuggling a newly born baby.
8. Getting good news.
9. The rush of riding a roller coaster.
10. Completing something.


I tag anyone that reads this and wants to create their top 10 list. If you do post your top ten I would love it if you left me a comment telling me so I can come check out your Personal Top Tens.

Not Me Monday!

So, MckMama has been posting "Not Me Monday" posts for quite some time and I laugh hysterically every week about her blogs. She has several hundred people following her blog and they too have joined in on the fun of posting "Not Me Monday" posts and link back to her blog. So much to read, so little time.

Well, I have decided to hop on this bandwagon and start posting "Not Me Monday" posts as well. I can't promise to do it every week. Like my "Tuesday Funnies" and "Favorite Foto Fridays", I just don't always have enough blog material. I'll do my best to keep you entertained as much as I can.

I'll be starting next week, but here is a taste.

I did not wake up on Friday, walk into the kitchen and do a "happy dance" because it was snowing. I did not enjoy seeing the first real snow blanket my yard, my car, my house. I did not think it was beautiful. I didn't. (cause them my thoughts went to, oh crap, going to have to start shoveling again!)

Enjoy!

Something for Fall

A blog I check daily had an interesting definition for the word "FALL". I thought I'd share it with you.

Enjoy!

FALL stands for:

Fellowship with Christ with a strong devotional life.
Abide in Christ by obeying His word.
Lean on Christ to find His power and strength.
Live for Christ!

By Julia Bettencourt

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 73:26 (King James Version)
26My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

Scripture of the Day

Zephaniah 3:17 (King James Version)
17The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

Happy Birthday to..........

Grampa Gardner! Hope you enjoy your birthday!

Love you!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 139:23-24 (King James Version)
23Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
24And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Answers to the Puzzle

THIS IS A MOST REMARKABLE PUZZLE. IT WAS FOUND BY A GENTLEMAN IN AN AIRPLANE SEAT POCKET, ON A FLIGHT FROM LOS ANGELES TO HONOLULU KEEPING HIM OCCUPIED FOR HOURS. HE ENJOYED IT SO MUCH, HE PASSED IT ON TO SOME FRIENDS. ONE FRIEND FROM ILLINOIS WORKED ON THIS WHILE FISHING FROM HIS JOHN BOAT. ANOTHER FRIEND STUDIED IT WHILE PLAYING HIS BANJO. ELAINE TAYLOR, A COLUMNIST FRIEND, WAS SO INTRIGUED BY IT SHE MENTIONED IT IN HER WEEKLY NEWSPAPER COLUMN. ANOTHER FRIEND JUDGES THE JOB OF SOLVING THIS PUZZLED SO INVOLVING, SHE BREWS A CUP OF TEA TO HELP HER NERVEES. THERE WILL BE SOME NAMES THAT ARE REALLY EASY TO SPOT, THAT’S A FACT. SOME PEOPLE, HOWEVER, WILL SOON FIND THEMSELVES IN A JAM, ESPECIALLY SINCE THE BOOK NAMES ARE NOT NECESSARILY CAPITALIZED. TRUTHFULLY,
FROM ANSWERS WE GET, WE ARE FORCED TO ADMIT IT USUALLY TAKES A MINISTER OR SCHOLAR TO SEE SOME OF THEM AT THE WORST. RESEARCH HAS SHOWN THAT SOMETHING IN OUR GENES IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DIFFICULTY WE HAVE IN SEEING THE BOOKS IN THIS PARAGRAPH. DURING A RECENT FUND RAISING EVENT, WHICH FEATURED THIS PUZZLE, THE ALPHA DELTA PHI LEMONADE BOOTH SET A NEW SALES RECORD. THE LOCAL PAPER, THE CHRONICLE, SURVEYED OVER 200 PATRONS WHO REPORTED THAT THIS PUZZLE WAS ONE OF THE MOST DIFFICULT THEY HAD EVER SEEN. AS DANIEL HUMANA HUMBLY PUTS IT "THE BOOKS ARE ALL RIGHT HERE IN PLAIN VIEW HIDDEN FROM SIGHT." THOSE ABLE TO FIND ALL OF THEM WILL HEAR GREAT LAMENTATIONS FROM THOSE WHO HAVE TO BE SHOWN. ONE REVELATION THAT MAY HELP IS THAT BOOKS LIKE TIMOTHY AND SAMUEL MAY OCCUR WITHOUT THEIR NUMBERS. ALSO, KEEP IN MIND, THAT PUNCTUATION AND SPACES IN THE MIDDLE ARE NORMAL. A CHIPPER ATTITUDE WILL HELP YOU COMPETE REALLY WELL AGAINST THOSE WHO CLAIM TO KNOW THE ANSWERS. REMEMBER, THERE IS NO NEED FOR A MAD EXODUS, THERE REALLY ARE 30 BOOKS OF THE BIBLE LURKING SOMEWHERE IN THIS PARAGRAPH WAITING TO BE FOUND.
GOD BLESS.

Focus On The Family

Focus on the Family did a two day series response to the outcome of the election and I just thought they had a really good message.

If you get a moment, please go to their site, www.focusonthefamily.org and click on Listen to Broadcast. Look for the title "Election 2008 Response". There are two parts, be sure to listen to both.

Have a good weekend.

Scripture of the Day

Matthew 5:14-16 (King James Version)
14Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Happy Birthday to..........

my super cute nephew Austin!

He is one year old today!

Can't believe how fast it went, I am sure his momma is thinking the same thing!

Happy Birthday buddy!!

Love, Auntie Mamie!

Icarumba!

I cannot believe that Christmas is "here" already. I saw my local Walmart setting up weeks ago. It is completely crazy!

Laurie and I were in Walmart in Winona on Saturday, you know, one day after Halloween. They were playing Christmas carols already.

Seriously!

Nothing Christmas is allowed until Thanksgiving in my book! Wish the retailers saw that way. I think they are starting earlier and earlier due to the bad economy.

What is your opinion?

Update on Stellan ~ 11/05/08

I can't remember if I ever posted about baby Stellan or not.

Stellan is a miracle. He proved it by being born last week.............................healthy as a horse.

The doctors are in shock to say the least!

This miracle baby was supposed to have several medical conditions that should have killed him in the womb. If he did make it to birth, he wouldn't live long.

Stellan is perfect. Perfectly healthy. Perfectly beautiful. Perfectly part of God's plan!

Thank you Lord for your healing powers!

Scripture of the Day

Ephesians 1:9-10 (King James Version)
9Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
10That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:

Out of the mouths of babes.........

Now, you have to know that for the most part, political talk of any kind, does not happen around the children. They might hear or see a commercial, but we try to not discuss it in the house as Mommy, Daddy and Mamie all have differing opinions.

My three-year-old niece Kersten found a flyer in her house(don't know how it got there let alone stayed there) with Barack Obama's picture and she knew who it was and she was saying his name. Mommy looked over and saw she had the flyer so Mommy began to explain to her that this was a big day in our history because it is the first time that an African American had been voted President. Her response was priceless she asked "Where do we go with Barack Obama mommy? Where do we go?"

I told her that was a good question and we would have to wait and see.

Update on Emmalina 11/05/08

Emmalina transferred to Mankato on Monday.

Yeah Emma!!!

She is almost ready to go home, this is the last step. She is now 15 minutes from Mommy and Daddy instead of two to three hours!

So proud of big girl Emma for reaching this milestone.

Please keep her family in your prayers as they transition towards having Emma at home.

And don't forget, Emma's benefit is November 15th!!

Scripture of the Day

Psalm 119:33-40 (King James Version)
33Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end.
34Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.
35Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.
36Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.
37Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.
38Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear.
39Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments are good.
40Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness.

Happy Birthday to..........

Grama Wood! Hope you enjoy your day!

Daily Posting ~ Scripture of the Day

So I decided that I liked having a scripture a day on my blog. With the "If My People" posts, there was at least one verse a day, sometimes several. I enjoyed it, so I decided to make it a regular feature. Stay tuned!

Pain Rehab Center Aftercare

So I spent all day yesterday in PRC Aftercare. They have all day sessions twice a month(soon to be three times a month in 2009!) for those who went to the three week therapy program. In essence, it is supposed to keep you motivated to keep up with the tenets of the program and the group aspect certainly gives you a boost.
To again be around people who understand is like being in a family setting. I had two women from my group in session with me yesterday, the rest were strangers. It didn't feel that way after the first half hour. It was very uplifting to attend and I wish I could afford to go more often. Trying to get Mayo to waive the 16 hour prerequisite to roll into disability for each session since I went 16 days this summer and its a continuation of care. Pray that I can succeed. Going to fight this battle as long as it takes!

Update on Sara ~ 11/4/08

Sara is going home on Wednesday!

Yeah!!!!!

Susan and I dropped in to visit her last night after dinner and she is doing so good. She is off anything IV now and they just wanted one more day of little to no weightbearing on the leg.

I still didn't get to see what it looks like. I stopped by earlier during my lunch and just missed it. Sarah has pictures, so I guess I'll have to see those some day. I am still a little fascinated in a morbid way about what it looks like under all that bandaging, but in a weak stomach sort of way, not so sure I can handle it.

Anyway...........HUGE praises to the Lord for carrying her through this journey. Wednesday is six weeks since she was admitted, so a milestone anniversary in addition to her going home.

She'll be at her mom and dad's for awhile before going home on her own and returning to work.

Thank you all for your faithfulness!!

Birthday Dinner with Susan

So Sunday was Susan's birthday, but yesterday(Monday) is when we got to celebrate.
I took her out to dinner, to the place of her choice. She chose TGI Fridays.
I hadn't been there in quite some time and neither had she. My favorite part of their menu is when they do the three items for $10 or $12 specials, but they didn't have that this time around.

So I was torn.

I can't eat normal portions of food due to my surgery, so what do I get?
I really wanted the mozzarella sticks(more like bars).
I really wanted a salad.
I really wanted a steak.
I really wanted cheddar garlic mashed potatoes.

What to do?

Well, money is tight these days, so obviously, I didn't order everything. No way could I eat it all, probably not even for two meals.

I got the mozzarella and the salad with a side of garlic breadsticks. Brought the extra breadsticks home to munch on later.

What did Susan get? Boring ole turkey burger.
Seriously! On her birthday dinner, she ate healthy! Crazy girl.

Oh well, your choice, your birthday. Hope you enjoyed your dinner!

November 4th, Day 40 ~ Election Day

Romans 13:1, 7 (King James Version)
1Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
7Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

Lord~
We live in a nation that is free to elect those chosen for public office. We confess that the servants who are chosen are there with Your approval. Let us faithfully support those elected to office, giving honor to their position. Let us help them fulfill the obligation and responsibility for our nation. With prayer and understanding, let us unite ourselves to the one purpose of living a life in which "In God We Trust."

Taken from If My People, by Thomas Nelson Publishing.