Live, Love, Laugh, Hope

Brandon Update, Dating Back to 2007

2012-01-30T00:35:00.000-08:00

If you have followed my blog since practically the beginning, you know in May 2007, and for many months afterwards, I wrote about a young man named Brandon. Brandon was in our youth group when he was in 5th/6th grade. Brandon went off and joined the military right out of high school, and in May of 2007, he lost both of his legs due to a roadside bomb in Iraq. The story is on my blog, if you go back that far. Many people would have given up, but not Brandon. Brandon fought, and fought hard. He overcame his disability, and is now part of the X Games as a mono skier. He is also married, and has a little girl. He is an American hero.

ESPN did this video on him for the X Games this year, so I thought I would post it.

Do You See Him?

2012-01-22T18:23:00.000-08:00

God gives us moments to enjoy.

He gives us moments where He reveals bits of Himself to us.

Do you stop long enough in the busyness of life to see what He shows you?

Do you walk away long enough from our over-connected world to shut out the noise, and hear Him, see Him?

He shows up everywhere, with special gifts just for us.

Do you see Him?

At Your Name

2012-01-15T15:07:00.001-08:00

New Venture

2012-01-11T19:01:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the extended absence! I started taking online classes, and have had little time for anything but watching videos, writing essays, participating in discussion questions, and taking tests. It's been a challenge, since I have not done college classes in over twenty years! I am making it, so far at least!! My biggest challenge has been the online venue, and not letting others comments to my essay answers get to me too much. We are required to write three essays a week, and other classmates are required to comment on our answers to the posted question. I find it very interesting that some people, who don't know me at all, jump right in and become an expert and authority in my life, and others in the class. I don't mind some helping points, some ideas, some constructive criticism, but I do mind when people take liberty to lay out everything they do not like about my answer, or my personality. We were asked in the beginning to be kind and respectful of each other. For the most part, the class is, but there's always that 10% who take charge of everyone else, I guess. I guess it's just increasing my understanding of different people and how not to respond to their off the cuff remarks.

Other than those few people, I am enjoying the class, and challenging my mind to learn at this level again, although it has been a very tired mind the past two weeks! I am working on life coaching with some counseling classes. It takes a lot of years and a lot of state laws to follow to be a counselor, but not nearly as long to be a life coach, and a lot more flexibility. I want to continue to work with teens and young adults, as I have for years as a volunteer. Whether I will be paid or not, I do not know. I just know that God put this out there and clearly made step by step happen, so He has a plan. I just don't know what it is yet. I am just trusting Him, and doing the work.

I will try to post at least once a week, so keep checking back.

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T10:04:00.000-08:00

A new year...a time for new hopes, new dreams, and new memories. A time to choose to live each day with purpose. Don't waste the precious gift of each day!

Blessings and joy to you in 2012!!

Stop and Think

2011-12-29T11:55:00.000-08:00

This is a great way to spend 15 minutes, listening to Francis Chan! It's much better if you put it on full screen, instead of just watching the little video.

Stop & Think from Stop & Think on Vimeo.

When Love was born - sung by Mark Schultz

2011-12-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T13:13:00.000-08:00

Take time out of the busyness the next couple days to set your heart on Jesus, worship Him, thank God for His gift to you. Merry Christmas!

He Came to Get Messy

2011-12-22T10:22:00.000-08:00

Need some focus for your heart this Christmas? Watch this video.

Do you ever feel that God is nowhere near and can’t understand your pain? Over 2000 years ago, Jesus, God’s Son, came into the world, not as royalty but as a baby born in a stable full of muck and animals. In this video Tommy reminds us with powerful imagery of the sacrifice that Jesus made by humbling himself to become one of us. It was a dirty job and he didn’t have to do it…but the world is changed because he did.

The Heart of Christmas

2011-12-20T11:01:00.000-08:00

The world's in a hurry this December
City streets and shopping malls
I wish we could slow down and remember
The meaning of it all
Wherever you are, no matter how far
Come back to the heart, the heart of Christmas
Live while you can, cherish the moment
The ones that you love, make sure they know it
Don't miss it, the heart of Christmas

How Many Kings?

2011-12-19T10:52:00.000-08:00

This is my focus for the week.

Manito Park Lights

2011-12-16T00:32:00.000-08:00

If you live in the Spokane area, and you enjoy Christmas lights, I recommend a trip to Manito Park this weekend. My husband and I took in the lights at the conservatory, and it was so beautiful! Of course, I love visiting here year round, so this was an extra treat! The conservatory is staying open later this week, through the 18th, until around 7 pm, I believe. Beginning the 19th, they go back to regular hours, closing at 3:30. So, if you want to enjoy the lights once darkness falls upon the plants, plan a trip this weekend!

A Drive Down Memory Lane

2011-12-09T17:44:00.000-08:00

I literally took a drive down memory lane this week. My husband and I were up at Western Pleasures Guest Ranch, where I enjoyed a wonderful sleigh ride, and getting to see old friends. On our way home, my husband took a drive through the Selle area. As I drove by homes, I would tell my husband who lives, or used to live in those places, when I was a kid. I had memories of 4-H meetings, and family friends. I remembered where some close friends lived where we would go sledding, snowmobiling, and cross country skiing in the winter, long before some of the houses that are now there appeared. We had a great time being kids. I had tears roll down my cheek as we drove by my adopted grandparents home. They have both been gone for several years now, but the memories flashed through my mind, much like a powerpoint presentation of my childhood and early adulthood.

I told my husband I miss the comfort that was along that road, the people I knew as I grew up. I know that times have changed now, and that many of the people I once knew who filled the homes along that road are no longer on this earth. Others have moved on, as I have, to a different area. Some of the homes are still filled with the same wonderful people. Although I didn't grow up directly in the Selle Valley, it was like home with all the great people I knew in that area.

It seems our world has changed, and not for the better in that area. There are very few areas where we can drive down a long stretch of road, and know anyone, and if we do know of someone who lives in a home, we probably don't really know them too well. Our world has become too reliant on social media and texting, and we have forgotten how to really connect and communicate, to build a community where people know each other and feel safe, where we know each others needs, and help one another out when needed, and where memories of childhood are abundant and our hearts are filled to the brim with love.

I challenge you, as I do myself, to work on building a community like that where you live. Make checking on actual people, face to face, more important than checking your facebook. Help the kids in your home, or in your neighborhood, have a lifetime of wonderful memories when they think back to their childhood. Make a connection, make a difference, reach out to one another.

I am thankful for the drive down memory lane yesterday. I hold dear and cherish the memories that flooded my mind. I am thankful for those who invested in my life outside of my home, whether it was a friend's parents, my adopted grandparents, a teacher, or a 4-H or youth leader. Each left heart prints on my life, each made a difference.

God, Be My Guide

2011-12-06T00:17:00.000-08:00

Yes, Lord! Thank You!

Mr. Mall Clause Could Learn a Lesson From an 8 Year Old

2011-12-03T12:37:00.000-08:00

The other day, I was with my mom and nieces at one of the malls in our area. The girls wanted to see Santa, so we waited in line to see him. I started to wonder about this Santa long before we got in to see him, because he makes the kids stand in front of him and tell them what they would like for Christmas, instead of sitting next to him in his giant chair, or sitting on his knee. Well, I guess he lets those paying to get their picture taken with him sit on his knee, but they are the only ones. I will say, he looked authentic, with real whiskers, and hair, and he is an older man, much as you would suspect Santa would really look like. However, he doesn't have the heart of what I suspect Santa would have.

One of my nieces wrote her letter to Santa at the beginning of the week. I read it. I shed a couple tears. She doesn't really ask for anything. She is 8, not a very typical thing for a little girl. But, my little niece has a big heart and is a very caring.

She had two things on her list. If she read my blog, I would be in trouble, because I am not supposed to tell anyone what she asked for, but I am going to do it. She asked that the homeless kitty that wandered to their home a week or so ago can stay, and she asked for snow for Christmas. She told me the kitty needs a place to live, and a family, so she just wants it to be able to stay at their home and they can take care of it. I met it, and although I am not much of a cat lover, this kitty does not know that. It snuggled against my legs, becoming my new best friend while I was out in their driveway. It refused to give up on becoming my friend, and I gave in and petted it and loved on it. In return I received loving purrs and soft meows. I am sure the kitty has a new home at my sister's house.

The second thing she asked for.....snow. She asked for snow because everyone loves snow at Christmas. While it's a big thing to produce, it's a pretty humble request from a little one, in my opinion. This is what she asked Mr. Mall Santa for, to which he didnt' have much of a response at first. He stood there, dumb struck. I just kept smiling as I watched him stumble over his words, and frankly, make a jerk of himself, at least to the adults watching. He asks her what do you really want, to which she continues to reply 'snow.' He then says, in a rude voice 'Well, why don't you just ask for world peace!!!???' My wide-eyed niece stood staring at him, not realizing he was being a sarcastic, rude man. He had the nerve to say it to her again. By this time, my mom and I were starting to tense up and at least I was thinking of telling Mr. Mall Clause a thing or two about talking to little kids. He continued to make a few dumb comments, continuing to ask her what toy she wanted or what game, to which she shook her head and said she only wanted snow. I was worried that my little tenderhearted niece was going to pick up Santa's bad attitude and get teary-eyed because he was being an insensitive person to a pretty sensitive little girl. She finished up by telling Mr. Mall Clause that she wanted to knit a scarf for Mrs. Clause because she thinks it would be nice to give her a present, since Santa is always giving presents to others. He said in a fairly gruff, you are wasting my time kid voice, 'Oh, well, you have a nice Christmas now,' as he pretty much pushed her along. I would expect the real Santa would say to her how it was nice that she was thinking of Mrs. Clause, and that Mrs. C would love a handmade scarf, and that she was a thoughtful little girl. I would also expect that he would think that she didn't have a long list of give me's would be something that was nice as well. Yes, she's my niece, but I would feel this way about any kid/Mall Clause situation. I watched him with a couple other kids, and he is far from a person who should be representing Santa. One kid was scared to death of him, and he kept trying to shove a color book in his face, the gift he was giving to kids, instead of just talking to the little guy, getting down on his level, and trying to calm him down, not make him more upset as he kept saying 'here take this book.'

I am proud of both my nieces. Neither one is centered on the give me's of Christmas. My other niece just asked Santa for a dark blue dress. Pretty simple list for a little girl who just turned 7. They aren't asking for the latest and greatest toys, Ipads, phones, computers. They have simple lists, lists we all should have. Their focus isn't on the materialism of Christmas that the world tries to push on all of us. They are focused on the little things, the simple things. They are making a lot of gifts to give to all their loved ones, and that is what they are really excited about. They are also excited about Jesus, the real reason for Christmas. They are learning how to do sign language to Jesus Loves Me for their Christmas play at church. They are so excited to share that song. In all that matters, what Mr. Mall Clause thinks doesn't matter one bit. What matters is having a giving heart, a heart focused on others not self or materialism. I hope I can remember to be childlike throughout this season, to keep things simple, to appreciate the little things, to look at things with wonder, and to take time to remember that Jesus Loves Me.

30 days of Thanks

2011-11-28T23:04:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for the opportunity to continue an education. I applied and have been excepted to take classes, and will start at the University on January 2nd. To say I am a bit nervous is an understatement. I haven't been in college over 20 years. I wonder if my brain will be able to keep up! I pray it can. My classes are online, and through live interactive classes, and I will be pursuing a degree in counseling, with some life coaching, with a focus on helping troubled teens. This has been my heart desire since high school. When I went off to college, the first time, my plans were to get a degree as a psychologist, with a focus on teens. My advisor at college, however, thought otherwise, and would not let me pursue my dream because of excellent grades in another subject, which I did not want to pursue. Needless to say, I did not finish at that college, for one, because I did not receive any support in what I really wanted to do in my life.

Although I did not have the degree, I have worked with teens for over 20 years and it has been a blessing, a learning experience, and has brought a lot of challenges as well as joy along the way. I know it will all help me with life experience as I pursue these courses and I look forward to learning, challenging myself, and finally getting a degree.

30 days of Thanks

2011-11-26T23:15:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for God's fingerprint, available everywhere I look. I am especially blessed because I live in a beautiful area filled with the artist's touch at every glance. I am surrounded by mountains and trees, many lakes, and quite a bit of wildlife. God is an amazing creator and artist, look around and enjoy His masterpiece!

30 days of Thanks

2011-11-24T07:57:00.000-08:00

30 days of Thanks

2011-11-23T19:48:00.000-08:00

Today, and every day, I am thankful for unending love, amazing grace!

30 days of Thanks

2011-11-22T10:31:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for my camera. My camera is my therapist. When I need to get away, refresh, think things through, I grab my camera and go for a drive, and snap away at whatever beauty God puts in front of me. There is beauty almost everywhere, if we choose to see it, and I try to do that with or without my camera. I often see some small details, that may be overlooked, because I am a photographer. My camera and I have spent many wonderful hours together, capturing the beauty God has laid before all of us. Photography is my way to unwind when life gets a little too wound up! I can easily get lost in a sunset, drift off at a lake, and get mesmerized in the details I see in a flower, a raindrop, or flake of snow.

Photography is definitely one of my strong passions, and although I have great room for improvement, I see the improvement I make every year as I look over old photos. I love just playing around with settings, not knowing what will show up on the captured image. I tried to take time to be specific about the settings, but it became too much to think about, and took the time of unwinding away, so most of the time, I just shoot, mess with a few settings, and see what I get. I like it that way.

I also enjoy sharing my camera with others to help them enjoy and learn the love of photography. My young nieces are in that group, and I love to look at what their young eyes see.

I have enjoyed taking photos since I was nine years old. I remember my first camera well..it was a little black Kodak camera. It had a 'case' that flipped over the top, and that 'case' hinged to the side of the camera when you were taking the picture. I remember the day I went to the Image Maker in Sandpoint and got my first real camera. I think I was 20 years old. It was a Canon EOS, and it was capable of having different lenses! I was so excited. I couldn't afford any other lenses at the time, but eventually I added a zoom lens to my collection. I remember almost six years ago when my hubby suggested I get a digital camera. I didn't know why I needed a new camera because my 15 year old Canon was working fine! I mean, why do I want to switch to a digital camera? I was sure they didn't take as good of pictures as my film camera. Well, he bought me a digital Canon anyway, and for awhile, I carried both cameras with me, usually using my film camera. However, once I started using the digital, I saw a great improvement in the quality of the pictures I was developing, and I didn't have to buy film! Now, I must say, my first camera has joined the collection of old cameras I have. I still cherish it, as we had many wonderful times together!

"Photographers view the world through a lens of gratitude."

30 days of Thanks, Day 18

2011-11-20T23:46:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for books. I love books, the real thing. I have an electronic library device, but nothing can or ever will replace a real book to me. I have enough books to start my own library, and when someone may suggest that once you read a book, you've read it, get rid of it, I shudder. Ok, there may be a rare occasion when I think it is alright to get rid of a book....but it's usually when I didn't enjoy the book at all.

Another reason to get rid of one of my treasured books would be when my dad decides to borrow one, and likes it so much that he ends up keeping it. See, my dad and I share a common love of books, and we share a love of writing notes, underlining, and highlighting things that really speak to us in those books. I often have others ask me if I have such and such a book, which I often do, but my books are written in from beginning to end, along with stars, highlights, and underlining. I tend to make my books personal, so does my dad.

Recently, I bought John Eldredge's new book BEAUTIFUL OUTLAW. I received that book a day before my parents came to visit. I hadn't even had a chance to look at the book, when dad sat down and started to read it. We all know that if we give dad a book at Christmas, the odds are, we won't hear from him for the rest of the day. Well, same thing happened with my new book as he settled into a big, overstuffed chair and dove into the new book. I told dad to go ahead and take it home, as I didn't have time to read in the next week anyway. He talked to me the next day and said he was having a difficult time not writing in and underlining my book. I told him to go ahead, I would get myself another book. Dad gave the talk in his church today out of that book, and did an amazing job by the way. He joked that he knows how to get new books, to pick up mine, take it home, and then I have to get myself another one. I must say, he has ended up with a few of my books by this process of his, but that's ok because I am sure I have a few of his, as well.

Books are a treasure to me, have been for as long as I can remember. You can escape to different worlds, like in a Narnia book. You can learn new things, and glean from others knowledge. My favorite book is the book that instructs me through all the things I face in life. It is full of lessons, but more importantly, it is an amazing love letter written to me, and you, to anyone who picks it up. The Bible. It is filled with almost everything you want to read about. If you don't believe me, pick it up and read it....mystery, action, war, deception, history, kings and queens, and the new testament, well, it's a love story. A love story where you are the center of the story because Jesus came down to earth to die on a cross to save you, to save me, if we accept what He has done for us, if we allow Him to be in charge of our lives, if we love Him back.

I am thankful for the ability to read. I am thankful for books. I am forever grateful for God's word, and His precious gift that was given for me.

30 days of Thanks, Day 17

2011-11-19T23:26:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for memories. I am thankful for memories made with those still in my life, memories we make and continue to make. I am thankful for memories of loved ones who are no longer on this earth, as well.

Memories can never leave our hearts. Memories are precious gifts that we can hold onto and treasure for the rest of our lives. God gives us precious moments, fun times, good talks, words of wisdom, and time with others as a gift. Keep that gift open, and remember with fondness and love those memories, with both those who are still in our lives, and those who are not. For those still in our lives, continue to make wonderful memories. For those who have gone on, don't close the gift of memories, but open it up and remember. Most important, live each moment of life completely and enjoy time with those special to you. Celebrate life! Build a treasure chest of memories for all in your life, so when you are gone, they can look back at the wonderful gift you left behind.

Life brings simple pleasures to us every day. It is up to us to make them wonderful memories.

Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.

Creating memories is a priceless gift. Memories will last a lifetime; things only a short-period of time.

Memories are the most beautiful pictures our minds can paint, and nothing can ever erase them.

30 days of Thanks, Day 16

2011-11-17T19:23:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for a home to live in. I know many are losing their homes during these difficult times, and I am grateful and humbled to have a home, a shelter to share with my hubby.

"Having someplace to go is home. Having someone to love is family. Having both is a blessing."

30 days of Thanks, Day 15

2011-11-16T13:23:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for the gift of hearing. Some of the examples of what I love to hear are laughter, music, birds, waterfalls, slamming waves at the ocean, I love you's, the voices of my friends and family, a crackling fire, whistling, and words that teach. There are so many wonderful sounds in our world. I could go on and on. It can be easy to take advantage of our gifts, like the gift of hearing, so take some time and be grateful for what we do have in our lives. We are surrounded by gifts, we just have to notice them, and be thankful.

30 Days of Thanks, Day 14

2011-11-15T08:31:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for all the lives that have touched mine through years of youth ministry. Each one left a heartprint on my life and am thankful for the blessings of being involved in so many lives.

Most of the 'kids' are now adults, many with families of their own. I love to see how so many have turned out to be wonderful, giving, loving people, people who follow God. I am also thankful that through facebook, I can still have contact with many of them, so the blessings continue to touch my life.

30 Days of Thanks, Day 13

2011-11-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for laughter. It always feels good to laugh, and a really good laugh can do wonders to lift moods, lighten heavy burdens, and put things back in perspective. I shared some wonderful giggles with my nieces yesterday. I love sharing laughter with them. What is in our hearts spills out on to our lips. I want mine to be joy, despite circumstances in life. Laughter is a good way to outwardly express that joy. Join me today, and make your heart smile. Find something to laugh about, something that brings you joy, and thoroughly enjoy it.

30 Days of Thanks, Day 12

2011-11-12T08:17:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for the first snow. I can't believe I am saying that, but it's so beautiful. I was dreading the first snow, but when I woke up this morning and saw it, the little kid in me came out and I was excited.

30 Days of Thanks, Day 11, Thank You Veterans

2011-11-11T08:50:00.000-08:00

Today I am extremely thankful and for all our veterans, those who have served and those who are currently serving our country! We honor you, and your families, for the sacrifices you have given for our freedom. Thank you seems so insignificant for all you have given for my freedoms, but it is with deepest gratitude we say thanks. God bless each of you!

30 Days of Thanks, Day 10

2011-11-10T20:49:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for God's word. It is a guide book for my life. It helps to teach me and show me the best way to live, and how to follow Jesus in my life. It's not a list of what not to do as some think, but it is a fantastic guide on how to really live and live life to the fullest. I am thankful that I have the freedom and opportunity to read the Bible, and to learn from it. I am thankful for the wonderful freedom I have found in Christ.

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Hebrews 4:12

30 Days of Thanks, Day 9

2011-11-09T21:36:00.000-08:00

Tonight I am thankful for the large full moon that rose up over the mountains, against a beautiful slate blue sky. It was stunning as it rose in the Eastern sky. I wish I had a photo to share, but I did not have my camera, but it is burned in my memory. Did you take some time to look at the sky tonight? If not, take some time to go out and look up in the next couple of nights and enjoy the amazing tent of heavenly beauty from our Creator.

30 Days of Thanks, Day 8

2011-11-08T09:23:00.001-08:00

Today I am thankful for the right, freedom, responsibility, and privilege to vote. Although I may not always like the candidates, it is still my right to get out and vote. We are fortunate to have that right, and so many do not take that right seriously, either by not voting at all, or by treating voting as a joke. Please take time to exercise your rights and vote today!

30 Days of Thanks, Day 7

2011-11-07T08:22:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for my youngest niece. Today is her birthday, she turns 7. She can always bring a smile to my face and make me laugh. I am so blessed to have her in my life, and be close enough to share the big moments of life with her.

Happy birthday! We love you!

30 Days of Thanks, Day 6

2011-11-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for knowledge, the ability to continually learn, to grow, and to improve my mind and thoughts. I was recently challenged by a lady in her 80's to keep my mind sharp, to read, to continue to learn because when I am her age, I will appreciate that I kept my mind active. She told me she continues to learn at her age, just a little slower than she used to, but she never wants to lose the ability to learn something new each day, and she challenges herself to do so. She said so many people shut their minds off when they get older, and that's such a shame because God has given us the gift of wisdom. We should keep learning, and teaching, our whole life. She talked to me about how so many think once you hit a certain age, you don't have to learn or participate in life anymore, but she said that was not her, that she was doing what God put her here to do, to learn, to pass the wisdom of her years along, and to not quit living life to the fullest because of her age.

What wonderful words of wisdom for each of us to live by. I appreciate that she shared her heart, and her wisdom, with me. It has definitely challenged and inspired me.

30 Days of Thanks, day 5

2011-11-05T09:30:00.002-07:00

If you aren't an animal lover, you probably will think that what I am thankful for today is a bit strange, but if you are an animal lover, you will understand. Today I am thankful for my dog. She is my constant companion, by my side like a shadow. My cousin stayed with us one night when her mom was down here in the hospital. She calls my dog a therapy dog because she knew my cousin was sad, and having a tough time, and she sat by her and cuddled next to her the entire night. If you have read this blog for any amount of time, you know my dog provides entertainment as well...she pulls up and eats entire rows of carrots in the garden, leaving the greens laying in an orderly row; she gets stuck in garden fences trying to keep her out of the carrots; she pushed a chair across the kitchen floor to get to the counter top where there were fresh baked cookies; and on and on. I am thankful for a dog who is so full of life and love. God brings us blessings in many forms, look around you today and see how He has blessed you.

30 Days of Thanks, Day 4

2011-11-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

Today, as it's cold and raining outside, I am particularly thankful for my home, for the roof and walls, and heat. I am thankful for the protection it provides from the elements, and that it is a place to rest, connect, and rejuvenate.

30 Days of Thanks, Day 3

2011-11-03T09:23:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for my family. We are far from perfect, but we share a lot of love, tears, hope, laughter, and precious moments together, building memories that we will treasure in our hearts for a lifetime.

30 Days of Thanks, Day 2

2011-11-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for my husband. We met at college 25 years ago, and he has been my closest friend ever since. Among the many things I thank God for in my husband, I am thankful for how hard he works to support us, for his faith in God, for loving me at all times, even when I am not the most lovable, for standing beside me and holding my hand as we journey through life together. I could go on and on about why I am thankful for my husband. God has richly blessed me with a loving, caring, hard working man who shares in my laughter, my sorrows, my joys, and listens to my fears and helps to reassure me that things will be ok. I look forward to the rest of our journey together, walking hand in hand, relying on God every step of the way.

30 Days of Thanks

2011-11-01T16:32:00.000-07:00

Today I am going to begin 30 days of thanks. I ask that you join me. I am going to blog, and keep a gratitude journal. We so often get focused on life's problems, or what we don't have, that we forget to take time to recognize what we do have. Our lives our filled with blessings, even if you are going through tough times. Look around, there has to be something to be thankful for in your life.

Today, I am thankful for many things, but I am going to start with sunshine on the first day of November, and trees that dance in beautiful colors as they say goodbye to Fall and usher in Winter.

How about you? What are you thankful for today?

Be a Person of Influence

2011-10-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

“You don't have to be a "person of influence" to be influential. In fact, the most influential people in my life are probably not even aware of the things they've taught me.” ~Scott Adams

Be authentic. Be available. Be kind and caring. Listen to others, really listen and hear their heart. Truly show others you care and that you value them. It doesn't take a lot to make a difference in someone's life. People long to have others care about them, especially in our fast-paced world, of non-facetime, but too much facebook time. Spend some time, in person, with those you care about, and see the difference it not only makes in their life, but also in yours.

Take Some Time.....

2011-10-16T23:32:00.000-07:00

I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. ~Maya Angelou

How about you? When you think back to the people you remember the most, hold close to your heart, why is it they have that place? Is it because they made you feel special, loved, important, worthwhile, treasured, because they took time out of their lives for you? Of course, the opposite can be true as well, and we can hold onto memories where people made us feel the opposite, but put those out of your mind, take steps to move those out of your heart. We have all been hurt by someone, had wrong done to us, but we have also hurt others, and wronged people in our lives. Today, take time to focus on those who made you feel loved, treasured, important, worthwhile. Think of that person who took time for you when it felt like no one else would, or the person who helped you out when you needed it, the person who was there for you in a difficult life circumstance, and give thanks for those people. I would even go so far as to say write them a note and thank them for taking time for you. I don't think we say thanks enough, and just as we all like to hear it when we do something for someone, others like to hear it as well. What a gift it would be to say thanks to that person who took time time make you feel like you mattered. Don't wait...do it today!

Take time today to make someone else feel that they are precious, worthwhile, loved, as well. You don't have to spend your entire day, just a little time with someone can make a difference. Make someone's day by making them feel important. You never know what type of impact you will make on that person, or what type of circumstance you will change in their life, but take the TIME to do something for someone else. It is never a waste of time when we get face to face with someone, listen to them, and truly care.

Sunset

2011-10-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I were headed home from a nice afternoon together, when this beautiful sunset lit up the sky. I love the gifts that God gives us everyday!

What If.....

2011-10-03T17:56:00.000-07:00

What if...what if you woke up today with only the things you thanked God for yesterday? What would you have in your life? Anything? Would you have your life? Family? Job? Friends? Freedom? Beauty in creation? What would you have? Look around you right now. Have you been thankful for any of what is around you? Have you voiced that thanks to the One who gave it to you?

Take some time today to say thanks, to think about what you do have, not what you don't have. Be grateful.

How good it is to give thanks to you, O Lord, to sing in your honor, O Most High God, to proclaim your constant love every morning and your faithfulness every night. Your mighty deeds, O Lord, make me glad; because of what you have done, I sing for joy. Psalm 92: 1-2, 4

Don't Just Know, Get Informed

2011-10-01T23:09:00.000-07:00

October is breast cancer awareness month. If you have followed my blog, you know I have an aunt, and three cousins who have survived breast cancer. I have also lost those I love to the disease.

I do self screening, get checked by my doctor, and I get mammograms on a yearly basis. I have a friend who says I shouldn't get mammograms because they are dangerous. While I know they put out radiation, I also know that my cell phone and computer do the same. I am also aware that early detection of cancer is extremely important, and with a family history of breast cancer, I will get my mammograms every year.

Don't just say you support breast cancer awareness month, put on a cute little pink ribbon, and do nothing about it for yourself, or those you love. Be aware, be informed, and take charge of your health, or the health of those you love.

Life Is A Book

2011-09-27T23:56:00.000-07:00

Life is like a book that you write a little bit of each day. Either written in wisdom, or scribbled in folly, it's still being written.

What type of book are you writing for your life? Every day our life is a story, a legacy, that we leave behind. Are you writing a story that will be remembered and cherished, or one that will be quickly forgotten? What type of book is your life...adventure, love story, or something so dull that no one notices? Life is so precious, cherish each moment, and write a story of your life that others want to join in, one that makes a difference to the world, to the world you impact.

Don't waste your life...live it! Live each moment, and cherish those in your life.

Unfailing Love

2011-09-25T21:59:00.001-07:00

Garden Harvest

2011-09-19T23:54:00.000-07:00

Today I am going to post the same pictures I did over on my photo site. I have been absent from my photo site for a few days. Life has been busy, and I haven't even had time to get out and take pictures! When that happens, LIFE IS TOO BUSY!

Today, I took time to go out and pick a wonderful harvest in my garden...five varieties of peppers, a zucchini, a spaghetti squash, a handful of green beans, two handfuls of amazingly sweet strawberries, five varieties of tomatoes, and a cucumber. I can't wait to dig in tomorrow night as we enjoy some of these delicious veggies for dinner! Thank you, Lord, for providing!

Celiac Awareness Day

2011-09-13T11:27:00.000-07:00

Today is celiac awareness day. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease, a condition that damages the lining of the small intestine and prevents it from absorbing parts of food that are important for staying healthy. The damage is due to a reaction to eating gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, rye, and possibly oats. I live with celiac disease. I was never 'officially' diagnosed because by the time they did a biopsy of my intestine, I had been gluten free for a year. Plus, tests for celiac have proven to not be terribly reliable.

I was very sick for a long time, and each doctor I saw told me that it was either in my head, I was just lazy that's why I gained weight, or there was something wrong but they didn't know what. I was sent through years of blood tests, and many imaging tests all coming back fine. One doctor told me he was almost absolutely positive I had colon cancer, even though all he did was listen to a few of my symptoms. I was 32 at the time, and was terrified for over a week. A little over five years ago, a friend referred me to a naturalpath in Coeur d'Alene. I was so ill by the time I saw her, I think I would have done almost anything to feel better. Fortunately, she was the best thing to happen to my health. She actually sat and talked, listened, and asked questions for over an hour. She wrote many notes as we talked, and at the end of our hour, she told me she thought I had a wheat intolerance, possibly celiac disease. I had never heard of celiac at that point, so she explained it to me, gave me some literature to read when I got home. She advised I pull wheat out of my diet for a couple weeks and see how I felt. I am one who does a lot of research on subjects, so when I got home, I immediately went to the internet and started reading on celiac. As I read, tears flowed down my face, because it certainly sounded like what I was dealing with for so many years. I pulled wheat out for the first two weeks, lost ten pounds in that time. I slowly started to feel a little better, lost more weight, and avoided all gluten products. I also became very educated in hidden gluten, and the names manufacturers use that means wheat. It was a long learning process. Today, I have lived completely gluten free for five years. I know when some gets slipped to me because my body aches, my tummy hurts, and I feel like I have the flu, when I don't. I still have a lot of health issues, probably because I lived with this disease for so long. I can look back in childhood and remember times when I wouldn't feel good, and now know it was celiac disease. Although I live with residual affects of eating wrong for so long, I am better than I was, and I am thankful for that.

Each day is a journey, and I don't live as a person with celiac, but as a person who is striving for better health. I read a lot, I research a lot, and I make wise choices of what I put in my mouth. I have learned to not be afraid to ask questions of what is in food when eating out at someone's home or at a restaurant, since food makes me sick. Occasionally, I still get slipped some gluten, and I pay for it for the next week, but overall, speaking up helps others to know what I can and cannot have. I also stopped being embarrassed to bring my own food along, if need be, when out with others. It's my health, therefore, I need to protect it. I also eat organic as much as possible because I have learned that chemicals, pesticides, genetically modified foods are not only harmful to eat, but also just make me sick when I eat them.

If you have questions about celiac, please feel free to contact me. I am including some links below with both information on celiac disease, and good products. Believe me, I have tried many of the gluten free products, and some are terrible, but others are very, very good.

Celiac Disease Info on celiac disease

Celiac.com Info on celiac

Simply Sugar and Gluten Free Great recipes, articles, blog

Gluten Free Mama Products, recipes...her pancake mix is delicious!

Namaste Products, info, fairly allergen free

The Cravings Place Products, recipes, allergen free

Glutenfreeda Products, info, recipes

Living Without Recipes, info for food allergies/gluten free

Gluten Freely Recipes, products, articles

Glutino Products, info, recipes

There are many more sites, and products. One of my favorites for breakfast is Food for Life's english muffins with seeds. There are a lot of products out there now, like I said, some good, some not, but there are options. I like to choose options that are more whole food, less ingredients. The main thing, is be informed as to what you put in your body, whether you have celiac or not. What we put in our mouths either nourishes us, or harms us. Be informed, and eat well.

10 Years Ago..........

2011-09-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

Be Still

2011-09-04T23:15:00.000-07:00

‎"Make time for the quiet moments, as God whispers, and the world is loud."

Be quiet and know that I am God. I will be honored among the nations. I will be honored in the earth.

Psalm 46:10

New Life Version (NLV)

Starry Night

2011-08-26T00:03:00.000-07:00

Life has been a little overwhelming lately. My hubby was on the east coast last week for work, and when he did try to come home, his flights were very delayed due to weather. He got home sixteen hours past when he was supposed to be home. I am very thankful he made it home, and that he arrived before the earthquake, and now the hurricane hit the east coast.

When he is away, my world spins extra fast. It goes fast enough on any regular day, so going on high speed spin cycle while he is away, makes me dizzy which is why I must fall down in bed at the end of those days and collapse. Not only is there all the things to do around our home, yard, garden, dog walking, errands, appointments, and on and on with our life, but his mom has been having to go to a lot of doctor appointments, which I am her main chauffeur and note taker to what the doctor says. I have great respect for full time caregivers. I do it on a part time basis, even when hubby is home, and it is a lot of work. My mom-in-law has MS, and has had for a number of years. Lately though, the disease seems to be getting a bit more aggressive in some areas, which requires a few more doctor visits and tests, and some extra care. I am thankful I am here to help her a couple days a week.

There have been a few other things in life that just have seemed to add to life on a crazy spin cycle lately, things that are tough just mentally to deal with, which I believe can be more exhausting than physical exhaustion. There have been moments when I forget to hand it over to God and try to take things into my own hands, or worry about what's going to happen. God's been trying to remind me that He has it all in control, I just need to give it to Him......and NOT take it back.

Tonight as I went outside with my dog, I looked up at the sky. The stars were amazing! There are millions of them, and they are so beautiful. I stood in awe for a few minutes, thanking God for always being there, and for showing me His handiwork. I thanked Him for not giving up on me when I try to control my life, instead of letting Him do that for me. I thanked Him that He is bigger than the earthly problems and that no matter what, He is in control.

This song popped in my head as I stood in the darkness, staring up at the night sky. Enjoy.

Wheat Field Sunset

2011-08-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

A couple nights ago, I loaded up my dog and my camera and set out in search of a sunset. I ended up at a wheat field, where I sat for a good half an hour. Except for a rare car driving by, it was quiet, really quiet. I haven't had that type of quiet for awhile and it was nice to just sit in the silence and watch God's creation.

Waiting Here For You

2011-08-14T06:58:00.000-07:00

Powerful song for a beautiful Sunday!

Verses

2011-08-12T08:37:00.001-07:00

Posting a few verses that have helped me out over the past week...

"Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." -Philippians 4:6

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me." -John 14:1.

For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18

"I cried out to the Lord, and he answered me from his holy mountain." -Psalm 3:4

"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing" Zeph 3:17

The Lord is my rock, my protection, my Savior. My God is my rock. I can run to him for safety. Ps 18:2a

Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers. Philippians 4:6

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1

Cherish Those in Your Life

2011-08-08T23:17:00.000-07:00

One year ago today, my mom and I arrived in Iowa to visit family. I hadn't been back to see family in twenty years. We had great visits, although our time together was short. We had a family gathering one afternoon with many of my mom's aunts, uncles, cousins, and their kids. As I looked around the room, I thought of all who were not there, who had passed away, including my Gram. I cherished the memory of every face as I took in each one, young or old, and wondered how long it would be before I would see them again. Since I didn't know when I would be back to Iowa, I also wondered how many I would not see again, at least on this side of life.

In the past year, three of those precious faces are no longer on this earth. Two uncles, and one aunt have passed away, two of them just in the past three days. They are all from my Gram's side of the family, one sister, one brother, and one brother in law. The past three days contain a lot of grief for my family to process. All of them lived wonderful lives, filled with loving family members, but they will be missed. My prayers and thoughts are with my family in Iowa and Minnesota as they process the sadness, and celebrate the lives of two wonderful people this week.

Life is precious and short. Even if we live to be old, life is short. Don't let a day go by without loving on your family, those who are important to you. Speak words of love to them, as well. Live each day without regrets, with nothing good left unsaid as far as love and appreciation to your family and close friends. Don't hold grudges or keep records of wrong that have been done to you, but be kind and loving, offering forgiveness when needed, as well as saying you are sorry when needed. Live each day intentionally. Live each day as if it's your last and leave a loving, wonderful legacy. Each day we are given is a gift, so live your life on purpose, don't waste your life or your time.

If you spend more time on facebook, texting, on other social media, or watching television, than you do with people, you aren't living a legacy that others will remember. Times that matter are times when we actually are with people, face to face, or actually speaking to them over the phone, not texting or messaging. I text, facebook, and message, but nothing compares to face to face, or voice to voice interaction with others. It seems actual, real life conversation is becoming a lost art in our society. Invest your time in people and with God. Live your life to make a difference. Cherish those that have been placed in your life and don't take one moment of life for granted. The book of James says life is like a mist, a vapor. I don't know if you have watched how long mists and vapors last, but it's not long, so don't waste what you are given. Be a gift to those around you, and cherish your times together. Intentionally make memories with your loved ones, laugh with one another, talk, play games, go outside and enjoy creation. You won't regret a life lived to make a difference, a life lived intentionally, a life lived on purpose, as you love those around you!

Double Dose

2011-08-05T16:20:00.000-07:00

Come over to Capturing LIfe Through My Lens and take a peek at my double dose of fawns I saw yesterday. They are just adorable! I was so thankful for the wonderful treat God provided for me to see, on a day when I really needed it.

New Photo Venture

2011-08-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking of ways to challenge my photography a bit. I take a lot of pictures, which anyone who knows me can tell you! I love photography, it's my stress reliever. I have been thinking about doing something different, something intentional. I decided to start another blog site and do a picture a day for a year. I would love for you to join me in the journey and see what type of fun pictures we can capture, and what type of special memories we can create. I think it will be fun to look back over a year of pictures. If you can only do a picture a week, that's great, too, but at least you are creating some type of photo memory, or photo journal.

If you would like to join me, join at any time! Please send me a link to your blog, so we can create a network of photo blogs, and see what our photo journals show us throughout the year.

I am going to post one theme a week, if you want to participate in that theme. I will also post other meaningful things that help me to remember that week.

My photo site is... Capturing Life Through My Lens Please visit, and if inclined, please make your own blog site, and join me. I think it will be fun, challenging, and will help me to work on my photo skills as I stretch to capture something different than my normal pictures.

Everything Good

2011-07-29T08:40:00.001-07:00

A Day Out Fishing

2011-07-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I were out fishing recently, when we suddenly had a visitor come tromping down through the yards, into the lake. We were joined by Bullwinkle. He stayed around for about an hour, feasting on lily pads and other plants out in the channel. My fishing abruptly stopped, and my picture taking and admiration of Bullwinkle filled the hour. I love living in the Northwest and getting surprises like this when we are out and about.

Attitude

2011-07-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

I thought this quote on attitude was a great way to start off the week.....

The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill. It will make or break a company, a church, a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past - we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude - I am convinced that life is ten percent what happens to me and ninety percent how I react to it. And so it is with you - we are in charge of our attitudes.

Charles (Chuck) Swindoll

Do You Have a Checklist?

2011-07-21T23:47:00.000-07:00

As a follower of Christ, I have often been told, since I was young, to put God as the number one priority in my life. At times I have, at times I have not. There were times when I was so busy trying to make sure God was my number one priority, that He wasn't because I was too centered on my God checklist...prayer, bible study, personal time in God's word, ministry, serving, devotions, you get the idea. All those are great in themselves, but not when the focus is on the task more than it is on God. Other times, my priorities shifted and God was put behind my marriage, my family, friendships, my job, ministry, health issues, worry, circumstances. It was at those times I would panic because I hadn't been spending my 1/2 hour in prayer in the mornings, or my allotted time in the Bible, or I missed two days in a row of not writing in my journal. All these of course, are MY ideas, not God's. I would think I had to get God back as my number one priority, or I was in big trouble. It was something I felt like I failed at all the time because I felt I never DID enough.

I have learned that the 'making God the number one priority by going through my checklist' is not what God wants. God wants all of me. He wants me to be with Him, not focused on a checklist. A true relationship with my Creator, my Savior, has brought me to understand that concept, and now, God is at the core of who I am, the center of my life. I breathe prayers to Him all day long, as I go about my day. I reflect on His word throughout the day, not only by reading, but by remembering, by having His word hidden in my heart so that it is always there. My life is now God centered, not checklist centered. It is so much easier to love God that way, and it takes so much self-inflicted performance anxiety away and lets me just be. Just as I want to spend time with my husband to enrich and grow our relationship, I do the same with my Savior. Because of grace and mercy offered to me, to all of us, through Christ, I don't have to keep my checklist anymore. I just have to be with God, in everything.

If God is woven into every aspect of my life, then He is in everything I do, everything I am, my relationships, my marriage, my family, friendships, careers, and things I am involved in. Living like this means God is a part of my decisions, He is always apart of everything I do. Do I always get things right, or always remember to invite Him to join me? Far from it, but it's ok because just like my relationship with my husband, I can mess up and he forgives me, or we laugh about it, and we move on. God is the same way. I know He has to laugh at some of the decisions I make, and when I really mess up, He is there to help me back up, dust me off, and offer me grace to begin again.

The core of my life is Christ. I try my best to put Him in the center of all I do, of all I am. I spend time in His word and in prayer because I want to not because I have to. It's when I try to do things on my own and take Christ out of the center of my life that things spin out of control. When He is in the center, I can be assured He is there, offering calm in the stormy times of life, giving me His strength to make it through.

I posted this song before, but it's going through my head as I am writing about putting God in the center of my life, making Him my everything. There are a lot of great truths in this song, so take time to just close your eyes and listen with your heart.

One Thing Remains

2011-07-17T14:26:00.000-07:00

We Are Sorry, This Blog Has Been Interrupted By Summer

2011-07-13T10:02:00.000-07:00

Since Summer FINALLY arrived here in the Northwest, I haven't been on the computer much. I have been outside, enjoying the sunshine, my garden, flowers, and family.

First 3D movie for all of us! Cars 2

The Way

2011-07-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

Jeremy Camp - The Way
From the album We Cry Out
All creation cries out with longing
With groans only You could comprehend
And with wisdom, You always answer
And give the words of life
So unfailing

And Your glory shines all around us
Your faithfulness shown for all to see
When we think of all of Your wonders
The beauty of Your plan that's been revealed
We walk in Your light
When we walk in it

(Chorus)
Shine, bright
Let Your glory fill this land
Lift high,
The King of Kings and great I AM
Jesus, You are the way

We can see the works of Your loving hands
With the hope and peace not made by man
When You poured out Your grace and Your mercy
And You held out Your arms
So we can see
And bled for all mankind
Set the captives free

Chorus

Jesus You are the way

Chorus

Jesus You are the way

Happy 4th

2011-07-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

As we celebrate our country's birthday and freedom today, remember to be thankful for your freedoms, and to take a stand for them. Our freedom's have come at a great cost to many. Stand strong and proud as an American, not only today, but everyday.

Thank you to all who have fought, and continue to fight, to keep our country free.

Lessons Learned While Stopping for a Sunset

2011-06-30T00:26:00.000-07:00

Tonight on my way home from browsing in a bookstore, the sun was starting to set over the Rathdrum prairie. I pulled off the road to watch the beautiful display of God's handiwork, and of course, to snap a few pictures. I have always loved sunsets. They always give me a deep sense that no matter what, God is in control, and He will take care of me. I needed the peace of that sunset tonight. I will admit, I was hit pretty hard a week ago by some very malicious lies and it knocked me down hard. The person who told these outright lies is someone I have known for numerous years, and the lies that she told, were a blatant attack on my character, my family, and my beliefs. The things said by her were very hurtful, but the most hurtful of the long list of lies she told, was the way she attacked me in my faith. I have felt for over a decade that when we are together there is a spiritual war going on. There are many details, but those aren't the point. The point I am making is that after reading what she said about me, the way she attacked me and my family and my faith, I was hurt, very down, and took a lot of her words and let satan use them to make me believe they were true. It's funny how insecurities can suddenly raise their ugly, unwanted little heads and not want to leave. My husband, a friend of mine, and deep down inside of me kept saying the lies weren't true, that I was a child of God, deeply loved, and that I was worthy, but my heart kept arguing with those points. I spent a few days really down. I was intentionally trying reading scriptures, listening to the sermon from Sunday which even applied to the situation (go figure!), and trying to get out of the hold of mean-spirited, negative, rude, hurtful comments that kept playing over and over in my head, continually. Coincidently, I started to receive email devotions on negative self talk, and how we take to heart what others say about us when we know it's not true, because God loves us, has a plan for our lives, and made us His masterpiece. I read the first three, but they didn't sink in. It was not a fun few days.

Tonight, however, as I was sitting looking at the sunset, I was also thinking of my Gram. I don't know why but on the way home, I was really missing her and wishing I could just pick up my phone and call her, but she's been living with Jesus for six years now, so I can't. As I was sitting on the side of the road, the song Fight Like a Girl by Bomshel came on my CD player, a song written in honor of my friend, Jenny, and her battle with cancer. If you don't know the song, I will post it below. I have listened to the CD's in my car numerous times, and have never heard that song come up. It's on a mix I made up to listen to for when my husband and I were taking dance lessons. I have no idea why this song was on there, because it's mainly Michael Buble music. Anyway, I shed a few tears as I thought of Jenny and how much I miss her, too. I was watching a beautiful sunset on the side of the road, snapping pics, and thinking of two beautiful women who touched my life. I hit replay, and I hit it again, and again. The words started to sink in. I felt like the little girl on the playground getting pushed around and made fun of by the bullies by the afore mentioned person. This is far from the first incident with her, believe me, just the most vicious one that I have had the 'privilege' to be a part of. I know from others she condemns me all the time, but I have not heard in person the extreme attacks, just get constant jabs and put downs, but not to the extent of what I experienced last week. Instead of like the little girl in the song, I ran to my husband and asked why she hated me. I asked God the same question. My husband is a mutual party in this. He told me not to let her bring me down, because I had worth, and she couldn't take it from me. My friend told me over and over in an email the same thing. But until tonight, I really didn't let God infiltrate deep into my heart, and make that a truth. Through this song about standing up and being strong, and not letting someone take the light out of your eyes, I finally let it go. I sat on the side of the road, with a beautiful sunset as a promise to me that it's ok, she doesn't need to control who I REALLY am. I know who I am, I am not the person she described and attacked. I listened to that last verse in the song that talks about my friend, Jenny....this is just another test that God gave me, and I know how to handle this..I'll hold my head high, never let this define me, or take the light from my eyes. I am working on standing back up and being strong, strong in the Lord, and not giving up, but knowing that through the love of Christ I can overcome this battle, and fight like a girl, just like Jenny did with her illness, just like my Gram did with all she faced in her life.

Along with the sunset tonight, God lovingly brought to mind two women who faced a lot of trials in their lives, yet kept going, looking to God through it all. It's amazing how God can work, if we take the time to slow down, even stop, and hear His message to us. I am glad I stopped tonight to enjoy the sunset. I am thankful for a song that reminded me of who I am, and that because of Christ, I can keep standing strong, and fight against the lies that satan tries to put in my head and heart, even when it's through someone who is supposed to stand with you, not against you. I am thankful for God bringing to mind Jenny and Gram, and how the more I listened to the song, over and over, the more I realized I needed to get the light back in my eyes and overcome the darkness that had crept in. I needed to start fighting like a girl, a girl who is secure in her relationship with a loving Heavenly Father, and I need to remember that, no matter what. So, as I finish typing this, I have a weight lifted off my shoulders. The words still sting, but I know that none of them are true. I have known that the whole time, but I haven't been able to shut off the continuous playback in my head, but I have tonight. I know who I am, and I am grateful that God reminded me tonight how much I am loved.

You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10

Sunday Song of Worship

2011-06-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Spiritual Legacy

2011-06-23T23:39:00.000-07:00

Building a Spiritual Legacy

Posted on June 23, 2011 by Chip Ingram

If you knew with absolute certainty that you’d die exactly one year from now, who are the top five people that you’d want to invest your time in? Do you know what you would want to pass on to them after you’re gone?

Every day, without knowing it, we are passing on who we are, what we possess and what we learn. But are we really passing down the stuff that matters?

All of us desire to leave an inheritance of significant value to those around us, but we don’t always know what that includes or how to do it. We plan for how to pass down our wealth, but when it comes down to the intangibles – the kind of stuff money can’t buy – we don’t seem too concerned. We might tell ourselves, it’s OK, and we’ll figure it out later. But the truth is, the average person will fail to pass on what matters the most to the people they care about the most.

Who comes to your mind when you think about those you would want to pass down a lasting inheritance – is it your family, your friends? Maybe it’s your spiritual children, the people you disciple in your small group, or the people at your workplace or school. It might be different for us all, but one thing is certain: God has uploaded the truth of his spirit into each one of his children. Therefore, it’s our responsibility to “download” – or transfer — to others the truth and the values that God has given us. This is our spiritual legacy.

The apostle Paul compares the Christian life to running a race. In 1 Cor. 9 he says, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” Each Christian is called to win the prize. The prize does not represent salvation, which is a free gift; the prize is an earned reward.

Paul sees this race as a relay in which each participant passes along the baton to the next runner. In a relay race, if the baton is dropped, the team is disqualified. As Christians, our goal of running the “faith race,” is not only to finish well — which means to life a live that glorifies and pleases God – but to also run the race with purpose. Why else would you run a race if you weren’t in it to win?

By running to win the prize we must pass on the truth and life of Christ that was deposited in us and give it to the “next runner.”

Building a spiritual legacy requires us to live out our faith with transparency and pass down the character traits that God is refining in us. What might this look like for you? When you are willing to share how you respond to hardship, approach your work, manage money and make decisions, you bring tremendous, life-changing potential to those around you. Even when your life seems like a train wreck, God can and will use your experiences to help others grow when you trust Him with every area of you life, depend on His Word and live in community with other believers.

This week’s upcoming series, “Download: Passing on What Matters Most” explores how to leave a legacy that stands the test of time. As we learn ways to practically live out our faith in five key areas of life, the secret to passing on God’s truth to others will be revealed. My prayer is that God will use this series to renew your desire to run the race well and use what He’s given you to change the lives of future generations. Visit this blog here.

Not Alone

2011-06-22T22:57:00.000-07:00

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 31: 6, 8

Happy Day

2011-06-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

A good man is one who is loved

for the warmth and caring in his heart.

A wise man is one who teaches

by the fine example of his life.

A strong man is one who has worked hard

and has always done his best for his family.

A successful man is one who has earned the respect

and admiration of others.

Dad, the above poem describes you, and the life you live. Thank you for being a loving, living example to me as I was growing up, as well as in my adult years. I love you! Happy Father's Day!

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I would also like to wish a happy 24th anniversary to my husband. I am not sure where the time has gone, but I am glad I have shared the moments with you! I look forward to the journey that lies ahead of us. I love you, babe.

“A successful married life requires falling in love many times, but always with the same person.”

An anniversary is a time to celebrate the joys of today, the memories of yesterday, and the hopes of tomorrow.

Hoping For Sunshine

2011-06-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

For those of you who live in the Pacific NorthWET, the above picture is the sun. I know it's been a long time since we have actually seen it and felt it's warmth, but I hear it does still exist. Hopefully, the weather forecast is correct and we will see some by the beginning of the week. My husband is on vacation next week, and many of our plans are going off the supposed nice forecast for next week. We have not made alternative plans, just praying for God to bless us with some nice weather. After spending several days trying to find good deals on a place to stay, which is nearly impossible, and trying to find somewhere that isn't flooded or still buried in snow, we decided to do a staycation and find things in our area to do. We have day trips planned, a day in the boat on a small lake since the large lakes are dealing with so much flooding, and a few other fun things which I cannot reveal because one day is an anniversary surprise for my husband.

So, here's holding on to hope with the rest of the region that Tom Sherry is correct, and we will have a week of sun and warmer temps. We definitely could all use some sun to warm us up, and dry up the flooding.

Defending MY Marriage

2011-06-15T00:18:00.000-07:00

My husband has returned home after being away for sixteen days. To say I missed him is an understatement. I felt like a child waiting for Christmas morning the night before he came home. I could not sleep because I was filled with anxious anticipation for his arrival. When I got up in the morning, I spent more time in front of the mirror getting ready than I have in a long time. I arrived at the airport, pretty much giddy that I would be reunited with my man. I waited, and waited some more because his plane was a few minutes late. Finally, my phone buzzes with a text, 'we just landed, see you in a few minutes....' I waited and watched and finally caught a glimpse of my hubby. Within a second, he found me as well, and our eyes locked and smiles crossed both of our faces. Now, his smile looked much brighter than mine because while he was back working disaster relief, he got quite a tan, while I was stuck here where it keeps raining.

I can function without my husband. I got things done, dug up and planted the garden, kept the things in check, helped his mom several times, paid the bills, kept things around our home running, and kept myself very busy. However, I don't like to do all that without my husband, to do life without my husband. On Sunday, we will celebrate our 24th wedding anniversary. This is the longest we have been apart in those 24 years. Neither of us liked it, but the reality is, he could be called away again within a couple weeks. We pray he isn't. If he is, I will do the same as I did before, and keep things in check, keep myself busy and life will keep going, it just feels strange to do life without my husband. When we got married, we became one.

Genesis 2:24 says:

This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.

Ecclesiastes says:

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

A cord of three strands in our home is my husband, myself, and Jesus Christ.

I have had a 'friend?' tell me I was weak because I was sad when my husband went away for over two weeks and that evidently I relied on him way too much and that maybe I would figure out who I was once he was away for this time. This 'friend' has known me for about three years. This person does not know me at a deep level, and has met my husband a handful of times, but this person definitely does not know my husband, at all. This person is not a fan of marriage and thinks that people who get married lose themselves, and has told those preparing for marriage to not get married because you lose who you are and you grow apart because you change, and marriage is so much work, it's not worth it. I will agree that marriage is a lot of work. So is any relationship that has any depth to it at all. Yes, I have changed a lot in 24 years of marriage, so has my husband, and I am very happy about that because I would hate for either of us to be stuck at the place we were when we got married, the place we were was 10 years ago, or the place we were 5 years ago. Life is about change, growth. Fortunately, my husband and I have grown through changes together, which doesn't mean we are clones of one another but that we love each other, accept each other, support each other, cherish each other, and have Christ at the center of our lives. We are mature enough to understand that it's healthy to change, especially when we mature as both individuals, and a couple, and we mature in our walk with Christ. Sometimes the changes have been painful, like when my father in law passed away, we moved from our home of 17 years, my husband lost his job, I lost my job, and we have both faced some health challenges throughout our married life. We have had times of growth and change that have been good and filled with joy as well. They may not have seemed like it when going through it, but we can see where we have come from and how we have changed and matured, for the better.

This 'friend' asked me in a very snide way if my husband was home, and when I replied yes, this 'friend' was very rude and snide when saying that's good, and oh, gee you survived! Well, I never doubted I would survive, because first, I trust God. Second, I am not a weak person. I grew up in North Idaho, with parents who didn't pamper us, but made us work. I raised farm animals, worked with my parents in their custodial/landscape business, and kept up with the boys in my neighborhood. My sister and I weren't raised to be pampered, prissy girls. I can take care of myself.

I wasn't missing my husband because I need someone to take care of me. I missed my husband because I made vows to him 24 years ago that meant something to me when I said them. Those words we said to one another as we exchanged rings were not just words, but the way we try to live our married life. Yes, we fail. We are humans. Yes, there have even been moments we haven't liked each other a whole lot, but we always, always have loved each other. My husband and I actually are opposites in many ways, but I like to think of it as we compliment each other because where I am weak, he's strong, and where he may have a weaker area, I am strong. Funny how God works those things out, don't you think? I missed my husband because when we exchanged those vows, we became one. When you are one as a couple should be, and half of you is missing, you are not complete. You don't stop being who you are, but you are missing a vital part, your spouse, hopefully your close friend.

I guess that three weeks of snide comments from this 'friend' has rubbed me very much the wrong way because I feel my marriage is being attacked, my relationship is being attacked, and how God brought, and has kept, our relationship together is being attacked. I love my husband and I am proud of that. I easily choose my husband, my friend over this so called 'friend.' I am blessed by God to have a man who loves me and works hard to support us. I am blessed to have found someone who hasn't given up during the tough stuff, and knows that great relationships only grow when we work at it. I am thankful that I have a marriage that has endured, and I am proud of our marriage, our commitment to one another and to God.

A good marriage is not a coincidence or about being lucky; it’s about learning the skills & principles that make it work.

Build a strong, protective wall around your marriage and nurture your spouse with commitment, understanding & devotion.

God Must Be Trying to Tell Me Something

2011-06-10T12:20:00.000-07:00

This came across on my facebook today. I think I might need this right now!

"Be still and know that I am God. " Psalm 46:10

How still have you been lately?? Are you allowing God to be God in your life or are you trying to control it? Here's a challenge...Let God work in your life and the lives of others. Try being still. Honor Him, His power, and His majesty! ~Melissa Taylor