To Do List

     The video above is from Toby Keith called 'My List', if you get this blog by email and don't see the video.. let me know and go to the link http://youtu.be/GTLF76zLxYA .
     Work, errands, chores... they're all on our 'to do lists' in our daily lives. This song reminds us to take time, yes make time, for the really important things in life. Family time, relaxation time, friend time, prayer time and just quiet time. Its one thing to provide for your family but don't make them pay for it. Whoever is in your life needs to know that your time is not too much to ask of you and is available.
     Start living, should be the next thing on your list. It's time. Go make a memory.

Distracted

     We all get distracted, from what we are supposed to be doing, at times. We lose our focus. Just this week, a dump truck driver got distracted by a spider and forgot to lower the hoist in back. He crashed into a skybridge. I can't say a word on that. I got distracted by some guys while cruising in Levy once. They were saying something as I was looking back, then 'WHAM', I hit the car in front of me. In hindsight, I think they were saying 'watch out'..lol.
     I am more focused on driving now that I can't. My dr's office has a form with the question 'do you fall asleep as a passenger in a car?' NEVER..lol. I'm glad its my right arm thats weakest because I often hit the driver with my left arm when they're distracted or I think they are..lol.
     Stay focused out there but let God be your primary focus in everything.

Change

      I do not like change. Well, at least if its not my idea or expected. I do like to redecorate my room with the seasons. Other than that, I like things to stay the same.
     My first semester in college at UCA, I lived in the dorm. My assigned roomate and I had little to nothing in common but I tried to make the best of it. Her middle name must have been 'change.' I went home one weekend to come back to find the whole room rearranged, including my stuff. I didn't object because it was okay with me, except it was a little hard relocating my stuff. Well, it soon became NOT okay when every time I went away for the weekend this happened. I never knew a tiny room could have so many different arrangements. The final straw came when my bed was by the door, the two tall closets between us and her bed by the window. NO WAY. The room was put back to its almost original state and remained so.
     Its okay to try to be flexib;e with one another, but don't let yourself be bullied or taken advantage of. Speak up for yourself.

Girlfriend

I was making photo cds for my mom yesterday to take to California today. I came across one of my favorite pictures of Girlfriend. This is how I like to remember her.

10 Favorites

Okay, the following are 10 of my favorite things, in no particular order, to help you know me better. I hope you'll comment with your 10 so I can know you better too. Email me, if you cant comment on here.

1. Guacamole...........I think this is my favorite food. Santo Coyote makes the best and I can share or eat the whole bowl, made tableside, myself.

2. TiVo.......I think this is the greatest invention since the microwave. Watching tv without commercials and at your convenience, its wonderful.

3. My Pets.......Animals have always been a part of my life and I cant imagine a life without them. Each are special to me in their own way. I know God provided each of them, just when I needed them.

4. Canton, TX..........I love to go here. Its flea market heaven. The weekend before the first Monday of each month, the whole town turns into a shoppers paradise.

5. My Parents...... They've been there thru thick and thin for me. I've been to more places and done more than most people because of them. I love you.

6. Clothes..... Yes, I'm a clothes-horse. I love getting new clothes. I rarely outgrow my clothes so I give them away, usually to Haiti, to make room for new stuff.

7. Eating out....... I love to go out with friends to our favorite restaurants. Even if I can't eat, due to coughing, I love the conversation and fellowship.

8. Dulcimer lessons.......Phillip took a chance on me and I am so thankful. It not only challenges me but it is fun. Our conversations are an encouragement too.

9. Memory of Maui...... This was one of the best weeks in my life. My parents went to Hawaii when I was in 10th grade but I declined to go. I wanted to go somewhere like that if I ever fell in love. Fast forward to 1994, my parents sent Marc and I to Maui for my college graduation present. Snorkeling, parasailing, submarine, a drive around the island, the beach day, and more.

10. Friends..... Where would I be without them? You know who you are and you're priceless.

Teaching

     Awhile back we went out to dinner at The Villa in Little Rock. Its one of my favorite italian restaurants. Not only is the food great but its quiet and you never hafta wait. Well the tables aren't too far apart so the next table is within hearing range, at least for my good ears, without conscious eavesdropping. So that night, the table next to us was a grandmother and her about 7yr old grandson. I don't know why a 7yr old needs a cellphone for but whatever. The little boy played games on the phone the whole time they were there. Yes, she threatened to take it away but no follow thru. His ENTIRE meal got cold and ended up in a to-go box. As they left, she said 'you want to go get a scoop of ice cream?' He said, 'yes, but I want two scoops'.
     Are you as baffled as I was? WHAT are you teaching this kid?  DISRESPECT--she was just a meal ticket and not important to talk to, NO MANNERS--adults with cellphones at the table is bad enough, NO CONSEQUENCES--empty threats do more harm than good, and GREEDINESS--more, more, more, no, no, no.
     Kids learn in every setting of every day. Be careful what you're teaching them.

The Bus

     I thought I'd go down the memory lane of jr. high since school is starting for alot of kids on Monday. Riding the bus is a big part of a kid's day. For the most part, I only had to ride it home. Thankfully, my mom usually dropped me off in the mornings. [Once in her yellow robe, aghh, lets just say I had her drop me off in a location with no one around quickly, lol] I had a great bus driver, Mr.Dare. He lives down the street from me and that helped out when I got on the wrong bus one time. They give you your bus number and then when you go out to get on, there's ten buses with different numbers out there. Mine was what? The bus was not easy for me to get on or off of. Thats how I learned time management early on. I would figure out when I could do homework during the next day so I wouldnt have to carry alot home on the bus. This is not a fool proof system, lol. I had a friend, Lily, who would carry my books onto the bus for me so I could get on easier. Getting off the bus is no picnic either, I bit the dust on more than one occasion. The older boy who lived down the street helped gather up my stuff for me. My ego was left there on the side of the road, lol. My dog, Bosco, was always there waiting for me as I crossed the street and that made everything good again.
     So to all the kids riding the bus Monday, good luck.

He is watching you

Words

Ephesians 4;29   Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

     Often we don't realize what an impact our words can make on someone else, either to build them up or break them down. 'Think before you speak' can't be learned enough. We all slip up and need forgiveness but we must try to watch what we say. An encouraging word can be the highlight of someone's day. Everyone is going through something, big or small, and can use a compliment or just a word of acknowledgement. Words can also be destructive. I've seen the hurt and low self-esteem it creates in a friend of mine. Its just wrong.
     Let your speech be like a good song on the radio that makes you and others feel good, otherwise just shut it off.

Perserverance pays off

     I don't remember the exact date but it was about this time in August of 1994, 17yrs ago wow, that I graduated from Northern Illinois University. [Finishing college is a story of perserverance in itself but thats not my focus today] I was now ready to find a job and start my career. I sent out numerous resumes and went on both do-able and far fetched interviews. I went to one interview, where when I got there the building wasn't accessible. The interview was held in my van. Another interview was for a quality control tech in a chicken factory at 30degrees. I interviewed twice with St. Johns hospital to work in the tuberculosis lab. My job search also included attending a daily job training center to help me find a job. My search lasted two years, a long two years.
     Finally one day I got a call from a pickle company saying I'd been hired. To make a long story short, I couldnt do that job [climb into a vat] but thru them found out the temporary agency I signed up with wasnt sending out my resumes. I immediately went over there to 'chew some hide'. They knew they were caught discriminating and told me about a job they just got in that day at a lab. I got this job and it was the best job suited for me. I worked there 5yrs and loved it.
     So this shows God's timing is perfect and what He has in store for us is worth waiting for. We must be diligent in pursuing our goals, rarely does a goal get achieved from the couch. Follow thru even though it looks pointless, the experience may teach you something. Finally, just keep after it, perserverance pays off. 

piggy cupcakes

Arent they cute?  Strawberry cupcakes, strawberry frosting, almond ears, m&m eyes, half a marshmallow snout w/2 m&ms.
These are for my doctor's office today b/c they are so good to me. I think this is why I hafta go in every 2 months, lol, no I wish it was.

Prayer

Psalm 54:2, "Hear my prayer, O God; Give ear to the words of my mouth.

Do you believe in the power of prayer? I most certainly do. I know prayers on my behalf have been answered countless times. Prayers must be according to His will, not just our own, to be answered.
Last year I went into the hospital on a Monday and my doctor told me on Friday that he was going on a mission trip to Ecuador the next day. I rallied my prayer partners to pray that if it wasn't God's will for him to go, that he wouldn't because I needed him. Well, there was an uprising at the Ecuadorian airport that night and the mission trip was accomplished at a later date. I told my doctor that my worldwide prayer circle kept him here. God works in mysterious ways.

Romans 8:28

8 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who^[a] have been called according to his purpose. 

Cooking

I am no great cook by any stretch of the imagination. I don't particularly enjoy it and eating out is the preferred option. They say 'don't trust a skinny cook' so that's my excuse to stay out of the kitchen, lol. No, seriously, my chicken casserole is pretty good. I'll give the recipe at the bottom of this post. The best compliment Ive ever got on my cooking was from my friend's son, Charlie, on a chili pie I made for him. I know its just fritos, Hormel chili, and cheese but he said 'you're the best cook ever.'  I know its not true but it still puts a smile on my face to remember him saying it.  So remember to compliment the cook in your life.  'You're a great cook, mom'

Chicken Casserole
heat oven to 350
use 9x12 pan
cover pan with boneless chicken tenderloins
add 2 cans of condensed soup.......celery and mushroom, my preference but whatever you like
1 can of rotel
stir it all up in the pan
add cheese all over it
cover with stove top stuffing
put 1 stick of butter in lil pats all over
cook about 45min to an hour

Adaptable

     Do you consider yourself adaptable? Do you find a way to make things work or do you give up? I've had to adapt throughout my life, not being able to do things like I once could. We must try our best but we must also not be too proud to ask for and receive help from others.
     The best example of adaptability from my life is when I was learning to drive. My mom took me out to Camp Robinson to practice. I drove for a while with no problems. Then I went into an empty parking lot to practice parking. Ok, so park in that space..no, thats not a good one. Ok, so how about that one...no, its no good either. I was trying to stay calm yet freaking out inside. I couldn't put on the brake. Ok, just pick any spot. Too many circles around the lot makes one suspicious. My time was up, I had to confess 'I can't hit the brake.'  WHAT? She hit the brake and we went home. My dad figured out that the gas pedal was lower than the brake. So you had to lift your leg and slide it over to apply the brakes. What would you do, not drive or adapt? We adapted by raising the gas pedal to be even with the brake. I didn't get to drive alone for awhile until we were sure I was safe. Its funny in hindsight, lol.
     As we get older, we will all face things that are more difficult to do. If you don't believe me, ask anyone with arthritis. Learn to adapt, don't give in to the circumstance.

drive by alan jackson

Driving

I have been driving something I think since the age of 2.  Beginning with a tricycle, Big Wheels, bicycle, go-cart, three wheeler, riding mower, car, and scooter. Driving has been a big part of my life. Dirt donuts were my claim to fame on the go-cart. We lived across from a playground that had a low spot that collected dirt. You go around the playground about 3 times picking up speed then slam the brakes in the dirt, spinning the go-cart in a whirlwind of dust. oh what fun. Now to the three wheeler that can enable you to fly, ha. Seriously, Burns Park used to have sand dunes to ride on and you can catch air if you go fast enough. We have a picture of me in the air on the three wheeler. I also did my share of mowing on our 2.5 acres and at my grandparents place in the country, not so bad minus the ticks and rocks, lol. Finally, a car at last. Cruising Levy was the thing to do back in high school. Yes, driving a mile in a circular path for hours..ha. I drove most of the time and I may be partly to blame for McCain Blvd being a 30mph no tolerance zone now. Speed limit to me means speed minimum...doing 35 in a 45 zone is just not right. Over the years, my guardian angels have been fast on their feet and thankfully protected my speedy self.

Due to my progressive weakness, I gave up driving on my own in 2003. Driving is a major sign of independence and freedom but you can't be selfish. You must know your limits and consider that others lives are at stake. This will be a reality someday for most of us. Don't make a hard choice more difficult by being selfish, the consequences could be deadly.
Hoping to be a speed angel in heaven one day..............angie

My church- FBF

2 Thessalonians 1:3-5

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

 ³ We ought always ^(A)to give thanks to God for you, ^(B)brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the ^(C)love of each one of you toward one another grows ever greater; ⁴ therefore, we ourselves ^(D)speak proudly of you among ^(E)the churches of God for your ^[a]perseverance and faith ^(F)in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure. ⁵ This is a ^(G)plain indication of God’s righteous judgment so that you will be ^(H)considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering.


I am so thankful and blessed to be a part of my church, Faith Bible Fellowship. I've never belonged to a more giving, loving and faith-filled church. It is a small church but they give their time and money to others so unselfishly. Members take time to visit the sick or provide a meal to someone in need. The love of God is demonstrated in so many ways but one seen so often is how the kids take care of their peers and the younger ones. No one is left out to feel alone. My faith has increased due to the fellowship of the brethren, the truth of the Word and the examples that the leadership provides in their daily lives.
I encourage you to find a church home. Support, guidance, prayer, love, accountability, the Word, and a place to worship can all be found in the right church home.  

Hair

How important is your hair to you? Can you imagine yourself without it? I am quite vain in this department. I've always had thick hair and never imagined a day without it. Well no one ever told me that getting sick can result in hair loss. Your body stops doing unnecessary things, like growing hair, to concentrate on keeping you alive. So after my sickness, my hair fell out from Jan thru March. April 7th, I remember distinctly, is the day it quit coming out. woohoo. It was a humbling experience. I think of all the cancer patients who lose it all. We must remember God looks at our hearts, not our appearance so we too must make that our focus. I watched a show on kids with progeria, a disease that makes a 6yr old body like that of a 60yr old. These kids want but are never able to have hair. Its one of their biggest desires but they dont focus on that. They live their short lives to the fullest and give 110 percent in all they do. They inspire me with their gusto.
   May we all focus on our hearts rather than appearance and give a 110 percent in all we do.

Strength

Strength is not always revealed in a dramatic display; at times, it’s demonstrated in determined endurance. When trials hit us, we often find we are not as strong as we thought. If we are physically injured, we want a quick fix so it'll be over soon. It takes patience, determination, and strength from the Lord to get through any trial. We are helpless on our own. I probably talk too much about my hospital stay last year but I have never felt so weak and helpless. God was my sustainer. He answered numerous prayers on my behalf and I am grateful. Its been 10 months now and He continues to teach me dependence on Him.  'Jesus is a rock in a weary land, a shelter in the time of storm'

Exodus 15:2

New International Version (NIV)

 ² “The LORD is my strength and my defense^[a];
   he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
   my father’s God, and I will exalt him.

August prayer requests from FBF Missionaries

Below is a compilation of prayer requests from FBF missionaries for the month of August.

Lesley Wolfe--NTM school in Missouri
My Indian friend, Nutan - her salvation
My preparations for teaching – classes get underway August 18^th

A little background (fyi!) where Nutan is concerned.  We met in January and have become friends.  Just two days ago we really began talking about God.  We read thru Genesis 1 --- she had lots of good questions and listened attentively when I answered them.  Anyway, I went over today and got her all registered to go through the Good Seed’s DVD Bible 101 course.  I believe she will go through it……how much she’ll grasp????  But I have another Indian friend here who is a mature believer, and I’m hoping that Cynthia will continue to befriend Nutan and pick up where we’ve just begun!!  I am sooooooooooooo thankful for what God has done thus far, yet sad to leave this sweet friend and not be the one studying with her!!!  But drawing and convicting and saving --- it’s 100% God’s work, and He is faithful, and I will entrust Nutan into His very capable care and guidance.

 Ted and Priscilla Clark--Morelia, Mexico

          Caleb as he prepares to leave home to study in Washington state.  He will be driving across the country (from Texas).  Michael will accompany him to help with the driving and spend a month with Grandparents before returning to Mexico.  Please pray for their safety on this long trip. Please continue to pray that the Lord would direct him very precisely, concerning the ministry focus and future God would have for his life.

Pray for the Lord’s powerful hand of protection on us and all those involved in the church and the business, as well as so many others serving the Lord throughout Mexico.

. 

Bill and Treva Turpin--Bethany camp in Iowa

 1. Needed funds to start building a new dining hall

 2. New Christians - adults and their families to grow in Christ- the Wilson's,  the Kitelinger's,  the Peck's  all saved in the last 2 years or less

Thank you so much for your partnership with us in prayer, and giving

 

Phil and Julia Zimmerman--tennessee

Our son Jacob is in need of the Lord's intervention. Please pray for him. Philip and I need the Lord's wisdom and guidance as well. Thank you for your prayers

 

Bobby and Namatha Avilez--HOH Orphanage in Thailand 

1.       Pray for our kids health! It’s been lice, mumps, pink eye and now back to lice!

2.       Pray for our new staff- Senay! He joined us a couple weeks ago and is doing a fantastic job. Pray that he will stay for the long haul and that His Christian witness would be “catching.”

Martin and Hansy Tuohy

1. We need wisdom to discern God's direction for our ministry. Do we join a new church plant effort in Denmark or pursue a church plant in Mexico that has lost their church planter, who was taken home to be with the Lord in April?

2. Discipline in regards to home schooling Victoria, still not sure about Isabel.

Monica and Quico Sernatinger--mexico

Please, thank the bretheren with you all for the very, incredibly kind love offering you sent us! Your kindness is evident to all men. The Lord is near.

Could you please pray for our trip to Chicago for the wedding of Paul Sernatinger, Jamie's nephew who's getting married on August 27. There are many details to be taken care of, i.e. accomodations, transportation, etc. May Quico and I be light to the family and that the doors continue to be open for the gospel in the hearts of Jamie's relatives: Jessica, Jean, Eric and Aunt Janet and Marie Pierre.

Could you also pray for the wedding of Moises and Esperanza, on August 13. It is the first wedding that we as a church will have in Puruandiro. We desire that it would be a great testimony for the many unbelievers that will attend.