Have I told you all lately that you are the reason I keep a blog? YOU! Think about it: if you didn't stop by and read, then what would be the point of hammering away on this keyboard? If you didn't drop by, even occasionally, then what reason would I have to spill my guts online? If you didn't want to know about my family, then what good would uploading photos do? If you didn't comment, then where would I get my smiles from? Okay, I do smile a lot already, but a good many of those smiles come from you.
To say thank you to you faithful readers, yes, all four of you, I am doing something special. I am hosting a give-away! Yes! My first one, EVER! (I'm a little nervous.) The New Year is upon us! I know you all are eagerly pulling out your journals or notebooks to jot down your New Year's Resolutions - I've got mine already written. I just love the feeling of a fresh, new year. I love getting brand new, crisp calendars and writing down the events for the New Year. I love making goals and starting over. One goal gets re-set every year: "read good books." I love to read! It can be fiction, non-fiction, and even juvenile reading - as long as it's good literature, then I'll read it.
I love to read, and I know many of you love to read also. I am giving away a book or books, up to $25 (not including shipping) from Christian Book Distributors. All you do to enter, is comment on this post telling me what your favorite book is. That's it! The winner gets to begin 2009 with a new book - on me!
The contest ends 10:00 CST, January 1, 2009. The drawing takes place on Friday, January 2, 2009 (my 11th anniversary) and will be announced that day. The winner will be asked to email me with the URL of the book(s) from CBD, and their mailing address.
My favorite book (outside of the Bible, of course) would be Anne of Green Gables. And Tuck Everlasting. Oh, and I like the Love Comes Softly series of books. And Laura Ingalls Wilder's books, too. Did I say liked reading biographies? No? Well, I just love a good biography.
But hey, that's enough from me!
What about you?
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
Real Life with Lucy...I Mean Valerie!
It began one very hectic Friday evening. Our friends, Jeremy and Amanda Tyler, missionaries to Brazil, were coming to visit us for a few days. I was about to begin preparing supper, a Mexican Lasagna, when I decided to do a quick clean up first. I started picking up things and putting them away, ordering (sweetly of course) that my children do the same. I found several ornaments that had been knocked off of our tree and began putting them back on. That's when I noticed that the cardinal ornament that my Aunt Kathleen gave me had gotten a broken tail. "Super glue!" I thought at once. My Hubby got it for me. Being a "Mrs. Fix It", I quickly spread some on and began holding the tail in place.
Well, you guessed it. I found that I had not only glued the tail on, but also my thumb!
If you are an I Love Lucy fan, then you will recall the episode where Lucy accidentally glues a beard to her face...I sorta felt like that. I am glad, however, that I glued the bird to my thumb and not my face! That would have been worse!
We quickly began trying to remove the poor bird from my really poor thumb. We tried dabbing nail polish remover on the area. Nothing. Terry even tried to use his pocket knife to separate my skin from that bird - but the ringing in his ears from my shrill sceams put a stop to that!
Finally, after a quick web search, we discovered that I would have to soak my thumb in nail polish remover to get the cardinal off of my hand.
Hey, I love cardinals, but not enough to be glued to one.
I hope you get as many laughs from this as we have!
Yep, Valerie glued a cardinal to her thumb. I can now testify personally that super glue lives up to it's name. I could endorse them! ;)
The soaking begins.
And yes, dear friends, we're still soaking!
Finally, after about 20 minutes of soaking and pulling, the cardinal is removed from my poor, sweet, innocent thumb- who was only trying to repair the beautiful ornament! You can't trust wild animals, though. I learned that the hard way! They don't understand when we're trying to help them.
Well, you guessed it. I found that I had not only glued the tail on, but also my thumb!
If you are an I Love Lucy fan, then you will recall the episode where Lucy accidentally glues a beard to her face...I sorta felt like that. I am glad, however, that I glued the bird to my thumb and not my face! That would have been worse!
We quickly began trying to remove the poor bird from my really poor thumb. We tried dabbing nail polish remover on the area. Nothing. Terry even tried to use his pocket knife to separate my skin from that bird - but the ringing in his ears from my shrill sceams put a stop to that!
Finally, after a quick web search, we discovered that I would have to soak my thumb in nail polish remover to get the cardinal off of my hand.
Hey, I love cardinals, but not enough to be glued to one.
I hope you get as many laughs from this as we have!
Yep, Valerie glued a cardinal to her thumb. I can now testify personally that super glue lives up to it's name. I could endorse them! ;)
The soaking begins.And yes, dear friends, we're still soaking!
Finally, after about 20 minutes of soaking and pulling, the cardinal is removed from my poor, sweet, innocent thumb- who was only trying to repair the beautiful ornament! You can't trust wild animals, though. I learned that the hard way! They don't understand when we're trying to help them.HURRAY!! Laci's happy for me, too.
There was minimal damage done to my thumb. The bird, however, had some paint removed due to his nail polish bath. I went against my usual OCD tendencies and just took red sharpie, colored him in and hung him back on the tree. I think I heard him breath a sigh of relief. Or was that Terry?
I was so busy getting the cardinal off of my thumb that I didn't get to prepare the Mexican Lasagna. Thankfully, we have several good restaurants in Hope. We took the Tyler's out to eat, and I made the lasagna the next night for them.
And, lest you think these "Lucy" moments are rare for me, I'll just share this. When I got ready to make the Lasagna, I realized I'd forgotten the diced tomatoes!
Ah well. Such is my life.
Simple Woman's Daybook #3
FOR TODAY...December 29, 2008
Outside my window...beautiful sunshine; frosty grass, trees and roofs.
I am thinking...about the wonderful services we had at church yesterday, especially our evening service with surprise speaker, Dr. Don Green. What an honor to visit with him and his wife. He's been pastoring Parker Memorial Baptist Church for 54 years!
I am thankful for...the ways the Lord provides and meets needs before I even see that I have that need. It reminds me of Isaiah 65:24 And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.
From the learning rooms...more silence! I have completed the grading that remained last Monday so our break is in full swing.
From the kitchen...empty cupboards. I must buy groceries today.
I am wearing...my pj's - it is so very cold!
I am creating...my New Year's resolution list! I love doing that every year, and I love checking off things from the previous year's list.
I am going...to make out our menu for the week, make a grocery list and buy groceries today.
I am reading...my Bible
I am hoping...that we have a good crowd for our Victory Service this coming Wednesday and that everyone enjoys playing the game Apples to Apples after the service! :)
I am hearing...my own typing.
Around the house...excitement about another week off of school!
One of my favorite things...Folger's French Vanilla Cappuccino mix with a dollop of marshmallow creme on top! Mm..Mm..good!:)
A few plans for the rest of the week: Getting things in place for school next week, shopping, planning the details for our New Year's Eve Victory Service at church, wrting thank you notes, buying something for my husband for our 11th wedding anniversary this Friday.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...
One reason I homeschool:
I get to enjoy every single silly moment!
Special thanks to the hostess of The Simple Woman's Daybook.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
My Love Story ~ Part Sixteen
I know you are all rejoicing that the final chapter of my love story is about to commence. I suppose it’s time to give it a title, now that I’m finished with it! I’ll have to think about that one.
I have not spent a lot of time editing these installments. Thank you for enduring my split infinitives, run on sentences and paragraphs that lack unity. You may not have realized just how bad my writing is, or you may have just been too kind to correct me. Either way, I appreciate your reading. For previous installments, please click here.
Thank you, again, for your time and comments. They are not taken lightly.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The morning of September 11, 1997, was no different from any other autumn morning in Arkansas. The air was crisp. The leaves were just beginning their metamorphosis from green and lush to gold, red and yellow. I left for work at my usual time, 7:45 AM. I drove down Janet Street, then onto Cody Street, and then to Military Road where I merged onto I-30. I would exit and drive into my parking space at the Baptist church next door to Landers. We were in the midst of a re-model at Landers, so all of the parking spaces were taken by new and used…er, I mean, previously owned vehicles or construction. During my drive, I enjoyed my Cathedrals tape and sang along. I remembered how in the previous months, I had driven this same path and sung along with those same tapes, but I did it to console myself. I was sad about having to end things with Mike, and I was frightened about what my future held.
Today, however, everything looked bright. I sang for joy! I enjoyed my job at Landers. We had recently sold our Oldsmobile line and purchased the Pontiac line. John Landers, my beloved boss and friend, had retired on April 15 of that year. I remember crying as I hugged him goodbye that day. My desk was positioned outside of his office, almost facing his door. I used to look in and see him busy at his desk, making notes, or phone calls. He would often glance up and make a joke or two throughout the day. When he would go get a cup of coffee, he would tease me about drinking cocoa. He was 64 years old, yet he treated me, a mere 19 year old, as though I were mature! Those of you who know me know that "mature" was not a good description of me then! Still, John overlooked my immaturity and managed to make me feel important. But, he did that for all of us ladies. I will never forget the day he met my older brother, Kevin. He shook his hand and told Kevin that I was the most consistently upbeat person he’d ever employed. I was so thrilled! It made my year to hear my boss, the owner of a huge auto company, compliment me to my older brother! I don’t know if Kevin thought much of the remark, but I did. I guess that’s pretty obvious since I still remember it some eleven years later. Now, his office was bleak. The furniture was there, but the knick-knacks that made it John’s were gone. The darkened office was a constant reminder that in fact, John was gone.
I admired and missed John greatly, but at least I still had George! George Newcomb was our General Manager. He was the guy who had the final say on what someone’s trade-in was worth. Another of his jobs was to sell the aforementioned trade-ins to wholesalers. He was in his mid-40s. He loved to rodeo and duck hunt. He, too, was very considerate of me and all the office ladies. Looking back, I think that my youth evoked a sort of "protection response" from everyone.
I often felt underestimated because I only answered a phone, all day, every day. The switchboard was more complex now that we had gone from 12 salesmen to 22. I also answered all parts and service calls which brought the grand total of calls to around 800 calls a day. But I longed to do more with computers, to use my brain more, but alas, I was good talker! George wanted me up front to greet customers and deal with irate ones on the phone (oh thanks!). The Lord knew where I would be best suited, so I stayed up front, doing the menial jobs.
I did the menial jobs until today, however. This day, Thursday, September 11, would be the most exciting day of my life! I got to my desk, as usual, and got started on the day. It was a regular day – parts calls, sales calls, service calls, paging, paging, and more paging. Watching lights on the switchboard to see if they were picked up, trying to beat the “ring backs” (when a call was on hold too long it would ring back to me, and that usually meant an unhappy person on the other end!). I had to apologize for keeping people on hold too long, and listen to them gripe about the hold message. They often tried to tell me what the matter was, hoping that I, a lowly receptionist, could solve the problem. I had to make excuses for lazy salesmen or for a very overworked parts and service department. I had to learn to be calm when others were angry and to be cheerful to someone who had just cussed me out, since his salesman was on another line. I had a good relationship with the salesmen and our parts and service people. I didn’t mind “going to bat” for them. I really liked the service folks. They did the dirty work – literally – and I tried to help them all I could. I suppose that’s why George thought of me when the job for Customer Relations Manager came open.
He called me into his office at the end of the day.
“Valerie, we have a new position opening up soon.” He said. “We need a customer relations manager. You would have to work with the all the unhappy people that come through our service department. Your job would be to work with them and the service department to get them happy, and to keep their business. You would get a raise, your own office and a demo vehicle.”
I was in shock. I was nineteen years old. This had been my first real job. I had worked for three months at Taco Bell when I was sixteen, but did that count? I had never been to even a community college and here I was being offered a job in management? I couldn’t believe it. My mind immediately raced back to my first days on the job. I remembered Proverbs 22: 29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. I had claimed that verse when I started working at Landers. My mother had claimed Proverbs 16:7 when she faced opposition after becoming an elementary principal. I thought I should have a verse in Proverbs to claim, too. The Lord had truly blessed my work at Landers, and I give Him all the praise. My mother taught me, by her example, that we can trust God’s word. It may not happen exactly the way we plan or on our time table, but God will keep His word!
I came back to the present. George was looking at me from across his desk. I didn’t know what to say. Part of me wanted to stand up, shake his hand, and say “I accept!” But, the other part of me said to wait. I waited.
“George, I really appreciate your considering me. In fact, I can’t believe you are considering me. Are you sure you know what you’re doing?” I asked laughing. He laughed and said that he did.
“Um, well, can I think about it?” I asked meekly, hoping he wouldn’t be offended.
“Sure! Let me know as soon as you can.” He said.
That evening, I arrived home at 5:30, my usual time. My Dad was home, but Mom wasn’t.
“DAD!! DAD!! GUESS WHAT??” I exclaimed as I burst through the kitchen door.
“What?” He asked.
“You’re never going to believe it!” I said, trying to catch my breath. “I got a promotion!! I was offered a job as customer relations manager!! I get a DEMO!! Can you believe it? I asked George if he knew what he was doing, and he said he did!” I continued my excited chatter for a while longer. Dad listened intently, soaking up each word. I could see he was happy for me.
“Valerie, I’m so proud of you.” He said after my motor mouth ran down. “You’ve worked really hard and I’m happy for you.” Those were the sweetest words I’d ever heard. To make my “partner” proud of me, like I was of him, what more could a girl want?
“Thank you, Dad. I don’t know if I’m going to take it. I wanted to see what you and Mom thought first. I told George I’d let him know soon.”
As soon as I arrived at church that night for my college class, I raced over to tell Terry the good news. He smiled and seemed okay about it, but he certainly wasn’t as thrilled as I was.
After class was over, he asked his Mom to go with us to get some ice cream at TCBY. We got our ice cream and sat down at one of the tables that were outside. We chatted for a while, and then I looked down to see Terry on one knee.
“Valerie,” he said. (Oh my! Was this what I thought it was?) “I talked with your Dad today, and said I had his permission to do this. I love you and only you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” He said looking up at me with that intensity of his. “Will you marry me?” He reached up to take my hand and place a ring on my finger.
I could only gaze at the ring on my finger! I couldn’t believe this was happening! His mother had tears in her eyes as she finally said, smiling, “Is that a yes?”
“OH! Yes! It’s a yes!” I was glowing!
We went to my house to tell my parents the good news and show them the ring. It wasn’t a huge diamond, but it was mine. Terry had sold one of his guns to get the money to buy it for me. You see, it wasn’t purchased on credit or from the excess of a large bank account, but with love and sacrifice. A four caret diamond wouldn't be nearly as beautiful in my opinion.
We set the date for our wedding for four months later - January 2, 1998.
Oh, and the job? I didn’t take it. I stayed on as receptionist for a little over a year after that. What can I say? I was born to talk!
Through all of these events, and so many more since then, there has been one common thread. That thread is Jesus. He has led me, each and every step. I have begged for His leading. I have had to work, at times, to see His light when the path would grow dark, but I didn’t have to look for long! His light was there, bright and constant. The God that led Joseph and Moses and Joshua and Rahab and Esther and Ruth and Mary and Samuel and David…is the God that has led me.
I’m sure there are some folks, possibly even some Christians who think that God doesn’t do for people today what He did for those Old and New Testament Christians. True, His methods might be slightly different, but His work is still the same. Go ahead, read His word, talk to Him, trust Him. Yes, it requires faith and some sacrifice. But it will never be more than you can handle. Just take that first step of faith. You will never be sorry.
The End
The Beginning
I have not spent a lot of time editing these installments. Thank you for enduring my split infinitives, run on sentences and paragraphs that lack unity. You may not have realized just how bad my writing is, or you may have just been too kind to correct me. Either way, I appreciate your reading. For previous installments, please click here.
Thank you, again, for your time and comments. They are not taken lightly.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The morning of September 11, 1997, was no different from any other autumn morning in Arkansas. The air was crisp. The leaves were just beginning their metamorphosis from green and lush to gold, red and yellow. I left for work at my usual time, 7:45 AM. I drove down Janet Street, then onto Cody Street, and then to Military Road where I merged onto I-30. I would exit and drive into my parking space at the Baptist church next door to Landers. We were in the midst of a re-model at Landers, so all of the parking spaces were taken by new and used…er, I mean, previously owned vehicles or construction. During my drive, I enjoyed my Cathedrals tape and sang along. I remembered how in the previous months, I had driven this same path and sung along with those same tapes, but I did it to console myself. I was sad about having to end things with Mike, and I was frightened about what my future held.
Today, however, everything looked bright. I sang for joy! I enjoyed my job at Landers. We had recently sold our Oldsmobile line and purchased the Pontiac line. John Landers, my beloved boss and friend, had retired on April 15 of that year. I remember crying as I hugged him goodbye that day. My desk was positioned outside of his office, almost facing his door. I used to look in and see him busy at his desk, making notes, or phone calls. He would often glance up and make a joke or two throughout the day. When he would go get a cup of coffee, he would tease me about drinking cocoa. He was 64 years old, yet he treated me, a mere 19 year old, as though I were mature! Those of you who know me know that "mature" was not a good description of me then! Still, John overlooked my immaturity and managed to make me feel important. But, he did that for all of us ladies. I will never forget the day he met my older brother, Kevin. He shook his hand and told Kevin that I was the most consistently upbeat person he’d ever employed. I was so thrilled! It made my year to hear my boss, the owner of a huge auto company, compliment me to my older brother! I don’t know if Kevin thought much of the remark, but I did. I guess that’s pretty obvious since I still remember it some eleven years later. Now, his office was bleak. The furniture was there, but the knick-knacks that made it John’s were gone. The darkened office was a constant reminder that in fact, John was gone.
I admired and missed John greatly, but at least I still had George! George Newcomb was our General Manager. He was the guy who had the final say on what someone’s trade-in was worth. Another of his jobs was to sell the aforementioned trade-ins to wholesalers. He was in his mid-40s. He loved to rodeo and duck hunt. He, too, was very considerate of me and all the office ladies. Looking back, I think that my youth evoked a sort of "protection response" from everyone.
I often felt underestimated because I only answered a phone, all day, every day. The switchboard was more complex now that we had gone from 12 salesmen to 22. I also answered all parts and service calls which brought the grand total of calls to around 800 calls a day. But I longed to do more with computers, to use my brain more, but alas, I was good talker! George wanted me up front to greet customers and deal with irate ones on the phone (oh thanks!). The Lord knew where I would be best suited, so I stayed up front, doing the menial jobs.
I did the menial jobs until today, however. This day, Thursday, September 11, would be the most exciting day of my life! I got to my desk, as usual, and got started on the day. It was a regular day – parts calls, sales calls, service calls, paging, paging, and more paging. Watching lights on the switchboard to see if they were picked up, trying to beat the “ring backs” (when a call was on hold too long it would ring back to me, and that usually meant an unhappy person on the other end!). I had to apologize for keeping people on hold too long, and listen to them gripe about the hold message. They often tried to tell me what the matter was, hoping that I, a lowly receptionist, could solve the problem. I had to make excuses for lazy salesmen or for a very overworked parts and service department. I had to learn to be calm when others were angry and to be cheerful to someone who had just cussed me out, since his salesman was on another line. I had a good relationship with the salesmen and our parts and service people. I didn’t mind “going to bat” for them. I really liked the service folks. They did the dirty work – literally – and I tried to help them all I could. I suppose that’s why George thought of me when the job for Customer Relations Manager came open.
He called me into his office at the end of the day.
“Valerie, we have a new position opening up soon.” He said. “We need a customer relations manager. You would have to work with the all the unhappy people that come through our service department. Your job would be to work with them and the service department to get them happy, and to keep their business. You would get a raise, your own office and a demo vehicle.”
I was in shock. I was nineteen years old. This had been my first real job. I had worked for three months at Taco Bell when I was sixteen, but did that count? I had never been to even a community college and here I was being offered a job in management? I couldn’t believe it. My mind immediately raced back to my first days on the job. I remembered Proverbs 22: 29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. I had claimed that verse when I started working at Landers. My mother had claimed Proverbs 16:7 when she faced opposition after becoming an elementary principal. I thought I should have a verse in Proverbs to claim, too. The Lord had truly blessed my work at Landers, and I give Him all the praise. My mother taught me, by her example, that we can trust God’s word. It may not happen exactly the way we plan or on our time table, but God will keep His word!
I came back to the present. George was looking at me from across his desk. I didn’t know what to say. Part of me wanted to stand up, shake his hand, and say “I accept!” But, the other part of me said to wait. I waited.
“George, I really appreciate your considering me. In fact, I can’t believe you are considering me. Are you sure you know what you’re doing?” I asked laughing. He laughed and said that he did.
“Um, well, can I think about it?” I asked meekly, hoping he wouldn’t be offended.
“Sure! Let me know as soon as you can.” He said.
That evening, I arrived home at 5:30, my usual time. My Dad was home, but Mom wasn’t.
“DAD!! DAD!! GUESS WHAT??” I exclaimed as I burst through the kitchen door.
“What?” He asked.
“You’re never going to believe it!” I said, trying to catch my breath. “I got a promotion!! I was offered a job as customer relations manager!! I get a DEMO!! Can you believe it? I asked George if he knew what he was doing, and he said he did!” I continued my excited chatter for a while longer. Dad listened intently, soaking up each word. I could see he was happy for me.
“Valerie, I’m so proud of you.” He said after my motor mouth ran down. “You’ve worked really hard and I’m happy for you.” Those were the sweetest words I’d ever heard. To make my “partner” proud of me, like I was of him, what more could a girl want?
“Thank you, Dad. I don’t know if I’m going to take it. I wanted to see what you and Mom thought first. I told George I’d let him know soon.”
As soon as I arrived at church that night for my college class, I raced over to tell Terry the good news. He smiled and seemed okay about it, but he certainly wasn’t as thrilled as I was.
After class was over, he asked his Mom to go with us to get some ice cream at TCBY. We got our ice cream and sat down at one of the tables that were outside. We chatted for a while, and then I looked down to see Terry on one knee.
“Valerie,” he said. (Oh my! Was this what I thought it was?) “I talked with your Dad today, and said I had his permission to do this. I love you and only you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” He said looking up at me with that intensity of his. “Will you marry me?” He reached up to take my hand and place a ring on my finger.
I could only gaze at the ring on my finger! I couldn’t believe this was happening! His mother had tears in her eyes as she finally said, smiling, “Is that a yes?”
“OH! Yes! It’s a yes!” I was glowing!
We went to my house to tell my parents the good news and show them the ring. It wasn’t a huge diamond, but it was mine. Terry had sold one of his guns to get the money to buy it for me. You see, it wasn’t purchased on credit or from the excess of a large bank account, but with love and sacrifice. A four caret diamond wouldn't be nearly as beautiful in my opinion.
We set the date for our wedding for four months later - January 2, 1998.
Oh, and the job? I didn’t take it. I stayed on as receptionist for a little over a year after that. What can I say? I was born to talk!
Through all of these events, and so many more since then, there has been one common thread. That thread is Jesus. He has led me, each and every step. I have begged for His leading. I have had to work, at times, to see His light when the path would grow dark, but I didn’t have to look for long! His light was there, bright and constant. The God that led Joseph and Moses and Joshua and Rahab and Esther and Ruth and Mary and Samuel and David…is the God that has led me.
I’m sure there are some folks, possibly even some Christians who think that God doesn’t do for people today what He did for those Old and New Testament Christians. True, His methods might be slightly different, but His work is still the same. Go ahead, read His word, talk to Him, trust Him. Yes, it requires faith and some sacrifice. But it will never be more than you can handle. Just take that first step of faith. You will never be sorry.
The Beginning
Friday, December 26, 2008
My Love Story ~ Part Fifteen
Well, dear, faithful readers, the end is in sight! Tomorrow I will be posting the conclusion of my love story. (Conclusion isn't the right word. I'm adding new chapters to it daily, but you would get very tired of reading that!) If you have no idea what I'm talking about, then please click here. Oh, and one more thing.
Thank you for your time in reading. It means so much.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Terry and I had now started dating, officially. I no longer tried to be just friends. I was no longer placing an invisible barrier around my heart. I had given it to him, at least in part, and I was now vulnerable. To break up now would be very difficult. It would be an “emotional divorce”, just like my break up with Mike had been. It was all or nothing for me, now. I was proud for everyone to know that we were a couple. Everyone seemed happy for us. A few folks had their doubts about Terry. Would he remain faithful to the Lord? Was he sincere, or just using me? They’re doubts were understandable. After all, it was now June. That meant that only six months earlier Terry had stood before our church to apologize for living a life that was not Christ like. He had been known to date girls and then dump them as a teenager. I knew this because I had known him as a teen. Well, I knew more of his reputation than I knew of him. But, wasn’t it the same thing? Was I so naïve to believe that in such a short time he had developed new habits and knew ideas? I knew it was a risk, but loving anyone is a risk. A man that has never even dated a girl before has the potential to do wrong to her. A man is, after all, still just flesh and bone. I suppose that life is mostly a series of calculated risks. With the Lord leading us, however, the percentages for success go way up! I had my parents' and my pastor's blessing on our relationship. But what was even better, was that I had found peace from the Lord myself, on my own. I had read my Bible and prayed and I found peace.
I cannot fully describe to you how I felt about Terry. It was so much more than just good chemistry. It was more than that “mushy” feeling you get in your stomach when a handsome guy comes along. It was a feeling of peace and security that I had never felt with anyone outside of my own family before. Perhaps some of this was due in part to the fact that I had done a lot of soul searching and decision making in the seven months after I ended things with Mike. I had decided that I would be single, if that was what God wanted for me. I suppose I hadn’t surrendered myself to that possibility until then. I had always had the very immature assumption that a Christian lady could not be happy unless she married. My eyes had been opened to the reality of what a poor relationship would be like by my experience with Mike. I realized that a life as a single lady would be far better than life in a bad marriage. As the days and weeks and months came between me and that final moment with Mike, the more relieved I felt. I found myself feeling like someone who swerved at the last minute to avoid a head-on collision. There I sat, parked in the median of my life, shaking and breathless. I was in total shock and amazement. Since that moment, I had day dreamed about what my life with Mike would have looked like – I shudder to even think of it now. I would describe for you what type of person Mike has since become, but there is no good in that. Let’s just say that my very best Friend came through for me, as always. I am even more thankful today than I ever was then. I wasn’t going to “settle” again. Terry was so very different than any guy I had known. He was so confident in his choices. He had walked on the wild side and had suffered for it. He had a family that was firmly grounded in the Bible, whereas Mike did not. Terry also had some great men of God who had been praying for him during those turbulent teen years - Dr. Ken Graham (my pastor) and Bro. Tim Green, to name two. He’d also had to work and pray very hard to even get my attention. In my heart, I thought that counted for something.
Terry, once again, was leaving flowers and notes on my car. He called me often, too. The notes and calls were not as frequent. That was good for both of us. We both needed some breathing room. Terry had stayed in our college dorm during the entire month of June. Many folks, including his parents, were expecting him to go home, to Indiana, where his Dad was pastoring.
“So, you’re not going home for the summer?” I asked him one balmy June night.
“Nope, I’m stayin’ here.” He replied.
“Why? Aren’t you sick of living in that terrible dorm? It doesn’t even have a window! And you’ve had to do so much work on it! Didn’t you install your own lavatory?”
“Yeah, but it’s not so bad, especially now that everyone else has gone home for the summer. I don’t care what it’s like. I’m staying here for you. I decided a long time ago that I wasn’t leaving without you.” He said.
At that moment, my heart lept inside of me and I turned to mush. But I didn't dare let him see that!
“You sure are determined, aren’t you?” I said with a laugh, trying to hide the fact that my knees were about to buckle. He looked at me so intently. It felt as though he could read my mind. I seemed to always be blushing when he was around. He still enjoyed getting my back up, by saying something that he knew would light a fire in me, but it was okay. I realized now that it was all in good fun. I had also decided that if I couldn’t laugh at myself, then who could I laugh at?
“Well, I am honored that you would stay here, in Arkansas, just for me, but I’m leaving in a few months for college.” The words hung in the air. Suddenly, our time together seemed shrouded in sadness. The thought of being away from him – even though we’d only even been friends for six months – seemed 100 times worse than the thought of being away from Mike had been. How would I manage? I wondered if he would find someone else, or if I would. I was actually more afraid of the latter. Since meeting Terry, I felt pretty. I was more sure of myself. I no longer felt the need to apologize for breathing. I had gained a confidence that I had longed for my entire teenage life. I'm not sure if it was my relationship with Terry that changed me, or having to trust God through heartbreak that made the difference. Perhaps it was both.
After a long silence, Terry smiled. He gave me a wink and said, “Well, I’m praying about that.”
“Really?” I said with a smile “Well then I guess I don’t need to worry.” We both laughed and once again forgot the inevitable separation that loomed ahead.
Terry and I dated every week that summer, sometimes more than once a week, but always chaperoned. We discussed life, ministry, family and the future. He continued writing me, calling me and giving me small tokens of his ever growing admiration.
I decided it was now time to return his affection. I had planned to tell him that I loved him sometime when he would least expect it. I didn’t want him to think it was a response to his love for me, but a decision that I had made on my own. On July 31, as we sat across from each other at our local church hang out – Taco Bell- I looked at him and said “Terry,” He looked into my eyes. That always gave me pause. Maybe he will just be able to read my mind? I thought.
“Terry,” I began again, “I love you.”
He smiled, letting the words sink in.
“Wow. I wasn’t expecting that! You do? Really?” He asked me, beaming.
“Yes, really. I wanted to pick the right time to tell you.”
“Valerie, you've made me so happy. I love you, too.”
Soon, August was upon us. Four short weeks before the new school year began there in Arkansas and in Indiana, where I would be going. If I didn’t want to leave before I met Terry, I sure didn’t want to leave now that I'd decided to love him! If I did leave, I wanted to leave as Mrs. Terry Basham, II and be going with Terry Basham, II! But, I had given Dad my word. My Grandfather had taught me that a lady is only as good as her word. I would go.
I had my application and references for college ready. I had gotten my physical. I had done everything but pack and pay! Things were moving toward moving day. Then, all at once, everything changed. Due to a chain of events that I will not go into, my Dad came to me one afternoon in early August and told me that I was not going to that particular college. This college where my brother and sister attended is still loved by my family. My Dad just felt that the Lord did not want me to go there. God’s plan is very specific for each one of us. Through the authority of my parents, I found that God did not want me to attend this school. I was so happy! I had told my Dad that unless he told me not to go to college, I would be going. Once again, I have only appreciated this decision more and more as the days have passed. I have taken the path that the Lord wanted me to take. I once heard my Pastor tell us that David prayed for a “plain path” from the Lord (Psalm 27:11). He didn’t ask for an easy path or a fun path, but a plain or clear path. I, too, have prayed that prayer many times since hearing that sermon. God has truly answered my prayer. He has always made clear the path I should take.
I could hardly contain my joy! I wasn’t in the habit of calling boys, even one whom I was dating, so I didn’t call Terry to tell him. The next day was Sunday. I would tell him before I left on the bus route.
As soon as I saw him, I ran over, my face beaming with joy. I couldn’t smile big enough!
“Terry, guess what!” I said. It looked as though it was still early for him. I don’t think he’d had his coffee yet.
“What?” He asked.
“I’m not going to college!” I exclaimed. “My Dad told me yesterday that I’m not going!” I told him the story.
“Can you believe it?”
“No, I can’t.” He said. “I feel like my heart is going to explode!” Now we were both beaming! I was so happy to be staying near him, though I didn’t tell him. I still tried to keep some mystique in the relationship.
I had no idea how quickly things would be changing for me. Would I be ready?
Well…ready or not, here they came.
To be continued tomorrow…
Please tune in for the final installment!
Thank you for your time in reading. It means so much.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Terry and I had now started dating, officially. I no longer tried to be just friends. I was no longer placing an invisible barrier around my heart. I had given it to him, at least in part, and I was now vulnerable. To break up now would be very difficult. It would be an “emotional divorce”, just like my break up with Mike had been. It was all or nothing for me, now. I was proud for everyone to know that we were a couple. Everyone seemed happy for us. A few folks had their doubts about Terry. Would he remain faithful to the Lord? Was he sincere, or just using me? They’re doubts were understandable. After all, it was now June. That meant that only six months earlier Terry had stood before our church to apologize for living a life that was not Christ like. He had been known to date girls and then dump them as a teenager. I knew this because I had known him as a teen. Well, I knew more of his reputation than I knew of him. But, wasn’t it the same thing? Was I so naïve to believe that in such a short time he had developed new habits and knew ideas? I knew it was a risk, but loving anyone is a risk. A man that has never even dated a girl before has the potential to do wrong to her. A man is, after all, still just flesh and bone. I suppose that life is mostly a series of calculated risks. With the Lord leading us, however, the percentages for success go way up! I had my parents' and my pastor's blessing on our relationship. But what was even better, was that I had found peace from the Lord myself, on my own. I had read my Bible and prayed and I found peace.
I cannot fully describe to you how I felt about Terry. It was so much more than just good chemistry. It was more than that “mushy” feeling you get in your stomach when a handsome guy comes along. It was a feeling of peace and security that I had never felt with anyone outside of my own family before. Perhaps some of this was due in part to the fact that I had done a lot of soul searching and decision making in the seven months after I ended things with Mike. I had decided that I would be single, if that was what God wanted for me. I suppose I hadn’t surrendered myself to that possibility until then. I had always had the very immature assumption that a Christian lady could not be happy unless she married. My eyes had been opened to the reality of what a poor relationship would be like by my experience with Mike. I realized that a life as a single lady would be far better than life in a bad marriage. As the days and weeks and months came between me and that final moment with Mike, the more relieved I felt. I found myself feeling like someone who swerved at the last minute to avoid a head-on collision. There I sat, parked in the median of my life, shaking and breathless. I was in total shock and amazement. Since that moment, I had day dreamed about what my life with Mike would have looked like – I shudder to even think of it now. I would describe for you what type of person Mike has since become, but there is no good in that. Let’s just say that my very best Friend came through for me, as always. I am even more thankful today than I ever was then. I wasn’t going to “settle” again. Terry was so very different than any guy I had known. He was so confident in his choices. He had walked on the wild side and had suffered for it. He had a family that was firmly grounded in the Bible, whereas Mike did not. Terry also had some great men of God who had been praying for him during those turbulent teen years - Dr. Ken Graham (my pastor) and Bro. Tim Green, to name two. He’d also had to work and pray very hard to even get my attention. In my heart, I thought that counted for something.
Terry, once again, was leaving flowers and notes on my car. He called me often, too. The notes and calls were not as frequent. That was good for both of us. We both needed some breathing room. Terry had stayed in our college dorm during the entire month of June. Many folks, including his parents, were expecting him to go home, to Indiana, where his Dad was pastoring.
“So, you’re not going home for the summer?” I asked him one balmy June night.
“Nope, I’m stayin’ here.” He replied.
“Why? Aren’t you sick of living in that terrible dorm? It doesn’t even have a window! And you’ve had to do so much work on it! Didn’t you install your own lavatory?”
“Yeah, but it’s not so bad, especially now that everyone else has gone home for the summer. I don’t care what it’s like. I’m staying here for you. I decided a long time ago that I wasn’t leaving without you.” He said.
At that moment, my heart lept inside of me and I turned to mush. But I didn't dare let him see that!
“You sure are determined, aren’t you?” I said with a laugh, trying to hide the fact that my knees were about to buckle. He looked at me so intently. It felt as though he could read my mind. I seemed to always be blushing when he was around. He still enjoyed getting my back up, by saying something that he knew would light a fire in me, but it was okay. I realized now that it was all in good fun. I had also decided that if I couldn’t laugh at myself, then who could I laugh at?
“Well, I am honored that you would stay here, in Arkansas, just for me, but I’m leaving in a few months for college.” The words hung in the air. Suddenly, our time together seemed shrouded in sadness. The thought of being away from him – even though we’d only even been friends for six months – seemed 100 times worse than the thought of being away from Mike had been. How would I manage? I wondered if he would find someone else, or if I would. I was actually more afraid of the latter. Since meeting Terry, I felt pretty. I was more sure of myself. I no longer felt the need to apologize for breathing. I had gained a confidence that I had longed for my entire teenage life. I'm not sure if it was my relationship with Terry that changed me, or having to trust God through heartbreak that made the difference. Perhaps it was both.
After a long silence, Terry smiled. He gave me a wink and said, “Well, I’m praying about that.”
“Really?” I said with a smile “Well then I guess I don’t need to worry.” We both laughed and once again forgot the inevitable separation that loomed ahead.
Terry and I dated every week that summer, sometimes more than once a week, but always chaperoned. We discussed life, ministry, family and the future. He continued writing me, calling me and giving me small tokens of his ever growing admiration.
I decided it was now time to return his affection. I had planned to tell him that I loved him sometime when he would least expect it. I didn’t want him to think it was a response to his love for me, but a decision that I had made on my own. On July 31, as we sat across from each other at our local church hang out – Taco Bell- I looked at him and said “Terry,” He looked into my eyes. That always gave me pause. Maybe he will just be able to read my mind? I thought.
“Terry,” I began again, “I love you.”
He smiled, letting the words sink in.
“Wow. I wasn’t expecting that! You do? Really?” He asked me, beaming.
“Yes, really. I wanted to pick the right time to tell you.”
“Valerie, you've made me so happy. I love you, too.”
Soon, August was upon us. Four short weeks before the new school year began there in Arkansas and in Indiana, where I would be going. If I didn’t want to leave before I met Terry, I sure didn’t want to leave now that I'd decided to love him! If I did leave, I wanted to leave as Mrs. Terry Basham, II and be going with Terry Basham, II! But, I had given Dad my word. My Grandfather had taught me that a lady is only as good as her word. I would go.
I had my application and references for college ready. I had gotten my physical. I had done everything but pack and pay! Things were moving toward moving day. Then, all at once, everything changed. Due to a chain of events that I will not go into, my Dad came to me one afternoon in early August and told me that I was not going to that particular college. This college where my brother and sister attended is still loved by my family. My Dad just felt that the Lord did not want me to go there. God’s plan is very specific for each one of us. Through the authority of my parents, I found that God did not want me to attend this school. I was so happy! I had told my Dad that unless he told me not to go to college, I would be going. Once again, I have only appreciated this decision more and more as the days have passed. I have taken the path that the Lord wanted me to take. I once heard my Pastor tell us that David prayed for a “plain path” from the Lord (Psalm 27:11). He didn’t ask for an easy path or a fun path, but a plain or clear path. I, too, have prayed that prayer many times since hearing that sermon. God has truly answered my prayer. He has always made clear the path I should take.
I could hardly contain my joy! I wasn’t in the habit of calling boys, even one whom I was dating, so I didn’t call Terry to tell him. The next day was Sunday. I would tell him before I left on the bus route.
As soon as I saw him, I ran over, my face beaming with joy. I couldn’t smile big enough!
“Terry, guess what!” I said. It looked as though it was still early for him. I don’t think he’d had his coffee yet.
“What?” He asked.
“I’m not going to college!” I exclaimed. “My Dad told me yesterday that I’m not going!” I told him the story.
“Can you believe it?”
“No, I can’t.” He said. “I feel like my heart is going to explode!” Now we were both beaming! I was so happy to be staying near him, though I didn’t tell him. I still tried to keep some mystique in the relationship.
I had no idea how quickly things would be changing for me. Would I be ready?
Well…ready or not, here they came.
To be continued tomorrow…
Please tune in for the final installment!
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
You've Got Mail!
Greetings on this beautiful Christmas Eve day! We have some very mild weather here today. The temperature is around 65 degrees and the sun is shining brightly.
Because I was swamped this past month, I failed to get my Christmas cards mailed out. I decided to send you a digital Christmas card this year! I realized that 95% of my friends and family have high speed or dial up Internet access, so why not make use of it.
Please click on the image to enlarge.
We will be spending the Christmas holiday at home tomorrow. No guests, no traveling, just us.
Because it will be kinda lonely for me this year, I would deeply appreciate your saying hello in the comments or in my chat box. It would be a special blessing to hear from you during this very special holiday. It would be comforting to know that I'm not just talking to myself. :)
Thank you so much!
Because I was swamped this past month, I failed to get my Christmas cards mailed out. I decided to send you a digital Christmas card this year! I realized that 95% of my friends and family have high speed or dial up Internet access, so why not make use of it.
Please click on the image to enlarge.
We will be spending the Christmas holiday at home tomorrow. No guests, no traveling, just us.
Because it will be kinda lonely for me this year, I would deeply appreciate your saying hello in the comments or in my chat box. It would be a special blessing to hear from you during this very special holiday. It would be comforting to know that I'm not just talking to myself. :)
Thank you so much!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Simple Pleasures: The Christmas Edition
I apologize for waiting until the eleventh hour, or actually the 23rd hour, to post today. I promised you four faithful readers that I would post today, and I MUST keep my word. I have been busy Christmas shopping all day, and believe me, it has absolutely finished me. What little energy and strength I have left, I am expending upon this little blog 'o mine.
I wanted to share this post sooner, but well, you know why I haven't.
My family and I have very few Christmas traditions. A few of our traditions include, but are not limited to: eating turkey and the trimmings for Christmas dinner, watching as many classic Christmas shows on TV or DVD that we can, and making my favorite Christmas "Poke" cake. I wanted to share with you this simple pleasure. You all know my culinary abilities are lacking, to say the least, but even I can make this cake!
First, whip up a white cake mix, any brand will do. I personally endorse Duncan Hines. Not that Duncan Hines pays me or anything, I simply endorse them out of the goodness of my heart.
Pour the batter into two 8 or 9 inch round cake pans and bake according to the package directions. (I just love package directions. That means that there is a package, which means that I don't have to do very much.)
Let the cakes cool for 15 minutes, then remove them from the pan. Then put them back again. Hey! That sounds like a nursery rhyme! Remove 'em and put 'em back again! Uh-hem. Sorry. Anyway, after you place them back into their cozy little pans, let them cool completely.
Now here comes the fun part! Take a fork and poke the cakes all over while it's in the pan. Go ahead and go crazy, it's okay!
See? Doesn't this look like fun? Next, boil some water. Yes, Virginia, I can boil water, despite those vicious rumors you've heard. In fact, I can do gourmet boiled water! Betcha hadn't heard that, huh?
Pour in a packet of red Jell-O. And stir, like so, for two minutes.
Because I'm a little OCD, I set the timer on my microwave for TWO MINUTES. Got that? TWO.
Oh my! Only 12 seconds to go!
After the TWO MINUTES have expired, you can then pour your red JELL-O onto your cake. Make sure you pour it right over all those little holes you've made!
Pour in all the JELL-O. Your cake should look like this. Actually, yours will probably look better.
Next, mix up some green JELL-O the same way you did the red. See the steam coming off of this one? Steam is an indication of good boiled water. But it takes an expert, so be careful. OH! Be sure you set the timer! It would be terrible to only stir this mixture for 1 minute and 47 seconds!!
What?
You're not worried about timing it?
oh.
Well, hey! Whether you time yourself or not, be sure the JELL-O is dissolved in the boiling water that you whipped up like a pro. Then, pour the green JELL-O over the top of the other cake.
After your JELL-O is neatly and sweetly poured over your two cakes, pop them into the fridge for three hours.
After the cakes have relaxed for about three hours, remove them from their polar spa and smother them with Cool-Whip. It's good for their pores. I wished I had used more for this cake, but hindsight is 20/20. Learn from my mistakes, PLEASE!
TADA! It's done!
When your all done slathering on the Cool Whip, go ahead and cut a sliver, or twelve. You won't be sorry! Oh, and for you real chefs out there, you could decorate this with little red and green gumdrops made in the shapes of holly leaves and berries. You could also write "Happy Birthday, Jesus!" on the top with butter cream or store bought frosting. The possibilities are endless!
My daughter and I were able to begin a new tradition this year. We got to go out with one of the ladies in our church to deliver goody baskets to some shut-ins and widows. It was a joy to visit these dear folks in our church and show some kindness. I was honored to get to take my nine year old Lauren with me.
My husband snapped this photo of us before we left. I'm sorry I didn't get one of the goody baskets that our church ladies made! They were so cute!
I love serving the Lord! I love serving Him more, however, with my wonderful family! I love making Christ-centered memories with my kids, all year long.
I wish you a Merry Christmas this week, and happy memories that will last a lifetime!
Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Simple Woman's Daybook #2
FOR TODAY ... December 22, 2008
Outside my window...the sun is shining brightly, highlighting the frost that covers everything. We had a very cold night last night, about 20 degrees! I am hoping that we will get enough freezes this winter to eliminate some mosquito larvae!
I am thinking...about how I love getting mail, comments, and email!!
I am thankful for...a husband who loves me enough to take care of me when I'm sick, to help me when I'm overwhelmed, to lead me when I'm stubborn and to forgive me when I come to my senses. ♥
From the learning rooms...the delightful sound of silence! We begin our two week Christmas break today, though I still have some grading to do.
From the kitchen...biscuits, blueberry muffins, and oatmeal crispies later! :)
I am wearing...a khaki skirt, a gray snowman sweatshirt and loafers.
I am creating...a clean house today! I finished up the homemade Christmas ornaments and gave them away at church last night. I think everyone liked them, but I didn't think about making something for those who do not have a Christmas tree! I'll have to do better next year.
I am going...to be celebrating the birth of our Lord this week!
I am reading...Mountain Born by Elizabeth Yates and Revelation from my King James Bible.
I am hoping...to purchase very soon the something that I've been saving up for! :)
I am hearing...the sound of "I Love Lucy" from the TV, the dishwasher running, and my central heat blowing. (Thank you, Lord, for heat today!!)
Around the house...clutter from the projects we've been working on.
One of my favorite things...Mary Engelbreit's artwork, especially her calendars!
A few plans for the rest of the week: Visiting some shut-ins tonight with Christmas baskets, Christmas shopping/wrapping tomorrow; Wednesday will be baking day for Christmas. I'm looking forward to celebrating Christ's birth on Thursday! I'm so thankful that He was born to die for my sins.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...
My most precious treasures: Leslie, Mitchell, Lauren, Laci and last, but definitely not least...a husband who is a wonderful Daddy! ♥
I wish you all a wonderful week as you prepare your hearts to celebrate Christ's birth!
Special thanks to the hostess of the Simple Woman's Daybook
Saturday, December 20, 2008
I Used a Lifeline
This past week was rather busy. We were privileged to have our friends, Jeremy and Amanda Tyler, missionaries to Brazil, with us last Sunday. I was not so privileged, however, to have a cold while they were here. I was doped up on medication during their visit. I also had one of the most embarrassing "Lucy" moments ever this past week, which I will be sharing with you sometime in the distant future. Okay, I hope it won't be too distant! ;) I've also been making Christmas gifts for some people this week.
And did I mention homeschooling??? I didn't think so.
I've been homeschooling this week, also. This is the week before Christmas. I have only bought gifts for one person so far! Can you believe that? Don't panic, it will be okay......I hope.
I decided that I needed to use a lifeline.
You know, the lifelines from that game show, "Who Wants to be a Millionaire"? Yeah, that show.
It was just me and Regis:
"Okay, Valerie, here's your next question, for $50,000. Are you ready?"
"Ready, Reege. Shoot."
"You have Christmas shopping to do, gifts to make, laundry, four children to feed and clean up after, a husband, laundry, ironing, a home to manage, laundry, birthday cards to mail, laundry, and homeschooling to do.
How will you make it work?"
a. Curl up in the fetal position and stare into space
b. Scream
c. Beg your husband to save you from yourself
d. Do not sleep the entire week before Christmas
(That weird wavy noise is in the background. The audience is silent, waiting...waiting...)
"Reege...(big sigh) I don't know. I need to use a lifeline."
That's what I've done. I've used a lifeline.
We began school a week earlier than the public schools in our area. We did this because we would be taking a week off in October for our Fall Revival meeting. We also managed to work ahead in Lauren's Arithmetic, because the first ten lessons were review. Some of that review was unnecessary for her, so we skipped it. This put us one whole week ahead in Arithmetic.
This, my dear blogging friend, has been my lifeline. We did absolutely no Arithmetic for fourth grade this week. None. Nada. Zilch. Zero. I think you get the idea.
Let me tell you, it's been a load lifted.
I am not very good at Arithmetic. Not at all. I passed it, but only because I worked and scraped for every good grade. I perspired. It was serious work. And now, I get to work all over again and re-learn it all with my children. Really, it's been good for me, in a character building sort of way.
I'm so thankful that I used a lifeline so that I could survive this very hectic week before Christmas.
I was planning to blog a lot the week of Christmas, but I don't know if I will get to now. On Monday I will be cleaning and buying groceries. OnTuesday we have a wonderful, sacrificial lamb, I mean teenage girl, coming to babysit so we can finally buy Christmas gifts. On Wednesday we will be baking and wrapping gifts. Thursday is Christmas, and Friday I will be in bed all day. So, it's just going to be a hectic week. Okay, I won't be in bed all day Friday, but I will want to be, I'm sure.
I will do my best to have another chapter/post/installment of my love story up next week, for the three of you who enjoy reading it. Consider it my Christmas gift to you.
What?
That's not what you wanted?
Ah-oh.
And did I mention homeschooling??? I didn't think so.
I've been homeschooling this week, also. This is the week before Christmas. I have only bought gifts for one person so far! Can you believe that? Don't panic, it will be okay......I hope.
I decided that I needed to use a lifeline.
You know, the lifelines from that game show, "Who Wants to be a Millionaire"? Yeah, that show.
It was just me and Regis:
"Okay, Valerie, here's your next question, for $50,000. Are you ready?"
"Ready, Reege. Shoot."
"You have Christmas shopping to do, gifts to make, laundry, four children to feed and clean up after, a husband, laundry, ironing, a home to manage, laundry, birthday cards to mail, laundry, and homeschooling to do.
How will you make it work?"
a. Curl up in the fetal position and stare into space
b. Scream
c. Beg your husband to save you from yourself
d. Do not sleep the entire week before Christmas
(That weird wavy noise is in the background. The audience is silent, waiting...waiting...)
"Reege...(big sigh) I don't know. I need to use a lifeline."
That's what I've done. I've used a lifeline.
We began school a week earlier than the public schools in our area. We did this because we would be taking a week off in October for our Fall Revival meeting. We also managed to work ahead in Lauren's Arithmetic, because the first ten lessons were review. Some of that review was unnecessary for her, so we skipped it. This put us one whole week ahead in Arithmetic.
This, my dear blogging friend, has been my lifeline. We did absolutely no Arithmetic for fourth grade this week. None. Nada. Zilch. Zero. I think you get the idea.
Let me tell you, it's been a load lifted.
I am not very good at Arithmetic. Not at all. I passed it, but only because I worked and scraped for every good grade. I perspired. It was serious work. And now, I get to work all over again and re-learn it all with my children. Really, it's been good for me, in a character building sort of way.
I'm so thankful that I used a lifeline so that I could survive this very hectic week before Christmas.
I was planning to blog a lot the week of Christmas, but I don't know if I will get to now. On Monday I will be cleaning and buying groceries. OnTuesday we have a wonderful, sacrificial lamb, I mean teenage girl, coming to babysit so we can finally buy Christmas gifts. On Wednesday we will be baking and wrapping gifts. Thursday is Christmas, and Friday I will be in bed all day. So, it's just going to be a hectic week. Okay, I won't be in bed all day Friday, but I will want to be, I'm sure.
I will do my best to have another chapter/post/installment of my love story up next week, for the three of you who enjoy reading it. Consider it my Christmas gift to you.
What?
That's not what you wanted?
Ah-oh.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
They're Watching Me
He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Micah 6:8
I have often heard of the Pastor’s life as being compared to living in a goldfish bowl. The fish swims around, trying to do normal “fish” things, but always under someone’s watchful eye. Even if no one is watching the fish, the potential for someone to look in at any moment is constant. So it is for a Pastor’s family. There may not be people watching all the time, but the potential is always there!
Of course, a fish is not a human. It does not have emotions like a human. It can’t feel or care that others stand and gaze at him. He cannot do “wrong” in a fish bowl! He is immune to criticism, and praise. As I sit here in our parsonage, which sits less than 500 feet from our church, I am painfully aware that they, my fellow church members, are watching me. They are watching my children. They see us at home or at play or at work. I often worry that someone might drop by and see me without makeup, or that they might see my house a mess. I worry that I've offended someone, somehow, somewhere. I worry that I’m really not cut out for this after all. I think “Lord, couldn’t you have asked my husband to be an electrician or a banker?” I worry, and then I worry more!
Just about then, however, the Lord reminds me that worry, after all, is a sin. I ask for forgiveness and try to do better, but I usually end up right back where I started. People aren’t after me. They are all really nice. Why then, do I worry?
I worry because I’m out of focus. I’m looking all around me at the people and the world, instead of looking up to Him through His precious Word and prayer. I worry when I’m not busy thinking and doing for others, for when I'm busy I cannot sit and think about myself. I worry when my priorities are out of order. For what does God require of me? Well, today’s verse sums it up:
1. Do justly, or be honest and true.
2. Love mercy, or simply be merciful to others. I must give my church family (and my own family) the benefit of a doubt.
3. Walk humbly with thy God. I must spend time with the Lord each and every day. I must keep my priorites in proper order. I must remember who I am, and how unworthy I am to be married to a Pastor – God’s highest calling for a man.
If I do these things, my worry usually fades and my priorities come clearly into focus.
Oh, and sometimes a church member has needed to drop by when, for some reason, I do not have my makeup on! I just smile warmly and help them.
And after they leave, I pray that they don’t have nightmares.
Dear Lord, I really do want to keep a clean house and yard. I want to look nice each day, and have children that honor You. I want to be good testimony. I fail so often. Please reveal to me the changes I must make, and give me the help I need to implement them. Help me to do my best, and keep my eyes on You.
Micah 6:8
I have often heard of the Pastor’s life as being compared to living in a goldfish bowl. The fish swims around, trying to do normal “fish” things, but always under someone’s watchful eye. Even if no one is watching the fish, the potential for someone to look in at any moment is constant. So it is for a Pastor’s family. There may not be people watching all the time, but the potential is always there!
Of course, a fish is not a human. It does not have emotions like a human. It can’t feel or care that others stand and gaze at him. He cannot do “wrong” in a fish bowl! He is immune to criticism, and praise. As I sit here in our parsonage, which sits less than 500 feet from our church, I am painfully aware that they, my fellow church members, are watching me. They are watching my children. They see us at home or at play or at work. I often worry that someone might drop by and see me without makeup, or that they might see my house a mess. I worry that I've offended someone, somehow, somewhere. I worry that I’m really not cut out for this after all. I think “Lord, couldn’t you have asked my husband to be an electrician or a banker?” I worry, and then I worry more!
Just about then, however, the Lord reminds me that worry, after all, is a sin. I ask for forgiveness and try to do better, but I usually end up right back where I started. People aren’t after me. They are all really nice. Why then, do I worry?
I worry because I’m out of focus. I’m looking all around me at the people and the world, instead of looking up to Him through His precious Word and prayer. I worry when I’m not busy thinking and doing for others, for when I'm busy I cannot sit and think about myself. I worry when my priorities are out of order. For what does God require of me? Well, today’s verse sums it up:
1. Do justly, or be honest and true.
2. Love mercy, or simply be merciful to others. I must give my church family (and my own family) the benefit of a doubt.
3. Walk humbly with thy God. I must spend time with the Lord each and every day. I must keep my priorites in proper order. I must remember who I am, and how unworthy I am to be married to a Pastor – God’s highest calling for a man.
If I do these things, my worry usually fades and my priorities come clearly into focus.
Oh, and sometimes a church member has needed to drop by when, for some reason, I do not have my makeup on! I just smile warmly and help them.
And after they leave, I pray that they don’t have nightmares.
Dear Lord, I really do want to keep a clean house and yard. I want to look nice each day, and have children that honor You. I want to be good testimony. I fail so often. Please reveal to me the changes I must make, and give me the help I need to implement them. Help me to do my best, and keep my eyes on You.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Sword Sunday
One of the highlights of December was the privilege of meeting Dr. Shelton Smith. My husband is always looking for ideas and advice from those who have been down the "ministry road" farther than he, and Dr. Shelton Smith certainly has some experience! He is the current editor of the Sword of the Lord newspaper and an evangelist. Before taking the position as editor, he pastored in Maryland for 34 years! His church ran around 200 when he first got there, and the Lord allowed it to grow to over 1,500!
To be totally honest, (and you all know that "real" is my middle name) I was very apprehensive about meeting him. He preaches to large crowds often. Our church is not at all large. He is well known; we are most certainly not. He is popular; popular is a word that I would never use to describe my family. I expected Dr. Smith to be way above me in attitude and action, and I felt he had every right to be so. After all, I am only a "somebody" to the Lord, and that is fine with me! I was pleasantly surprised to find that he is absolutely not pious, pompous, or arrogant. He is kind, sincere, understanding and very humble.
My husband introduced me to him first thing Sunday morning. I managed a very weak, "Hello, I'm Valerie." I had had nightmares of introducing myself to him as the "Wastor's Pife", so I just left that part entirely. He smiled, shook my hand and said "I'm so pleased to meet you."
What?? Did he say he was pleased to meet me?? Yes! He did! I probably let out an audible sigh of relief! He was nice! Whew!
Terry had visited with Dr. Smith quite a bit on Saturday. He gave Terry some very practical advice on scheduling and other things. He encouraged Terry in the ideas that he already had. Terry had said that Dr. Smith was a very "regular kind of guy", but I was still intimidated.
Unfortunately, we had a rather low attendance that day. I was disappointed because anytime we have a guest speaker, I want them to meet our wonderful people. I also want the people to hear their messages or testimonies. Of course, I am equally disappointed when they aren't there on a regular Sunday, too! I can honestly say that I love our church people! Seeing them is the highlight of my week. They are why we relocated our family and they are, in essence, the reason we are in Hope, Arkansas. We are here to serve them. I was moved by Dr. Smith's testimony of how the Lord placed him as the editor of the Sword of the Lord. His Sunday school lesson and evening sermon were an encouragement to my heart. I wish everyone could have gotten that encouragement!
By meeting and visiting with Dr. Smith, my husband learned many good things that will enable him to be a better pastor to our people. I am thankful for the opportunity to meet a great man, like Dr. Smith. He isn't great because he is the editor of the Sword of the Lord, he is great because he has been faithful many years. My home pastor, Dr. Ken Graham, defined greatness as faithfulness. I agree with that definition.
After our evening service, I had the opportunity to thank him for coming. He was very gracious. He encouraged me to attend one of the Ladies' Jubilees. I hope I will be able to do just that in the near future.
Here are a few photos of the day:
Dr. Smith with one of our men, Mr. Eugene Bobo
Dr. Smith visits with Bro. Eugene.
Terry and Dr. Shelton Smith
Some of our family with Dr. Smith. If only I could get Lauren to smile! :)
I am thankful for the opportunity to serve the Lord in full time ministry. In hard times and happy times; in thick and in thin, I would rather be in God's service than in any other occupation in the world.
Jeremiah 5:5 I will get me unto the great men, and will speak unto them; for they have known the way of the LORD, and the judgment of their God:...
Monday, December 15, 2008
Coming Soon: A Real Live Post about Something
I'm so sorry for not posting anything in well over a week. My life has been crazy lately. I have had so much going on. We've had guests (which is great), Christmas decorating (also great), a two year old with yet another ear infection (not great), stressful moments(also not great), a Mom with a cold that will not leave (me) (do I even need to say this one isn't great? I didn't think so.), and homeschooling (this one is neutral).
We've had lots of happy moments sprinkled throughout all of the "busyness", and I have been taking photos and making notes. I hope to be able to share these moments with you soon. Thank you, dear people, for taking time out of your busy life to peek in on me and my little life. You are what makes this site worth keeping. ♥
See you soon, I promise.
Really.
I heard that! ;)
Really, I'm serious! I will post soon.
We've had lots of happy moments sprinkled throughout all of the "busyness", and I have been taking photos and making notes. I hope to be able to share these moments with you soon. Thank you, dear people, for taking time out of your busy life to peek in on me and my little life. You are what makes this site worth keeping. ♥
See you soon, I promise.
Really.
I heard that! ;)
Really, I'm serious! I will post soon.
Friday, December 5, 2008
December 5, 1993
I'll remember this date forever. I remember I was fifteen. I remember that I had planned a wonderful Christmas party for myself and my friends on this particular date in history. We were going to play "Taboo" and "Pictionary". I was going to make a Christmas Poke Cake for the occasion. Which, by the way, happens to be my favorite Christmas dessert! It's a two layer, white cake. After you bake it, you poke both layers all over with a fork. Then, you prepare Jell-O water and pour it over the cake. You do one layer with green Jell-O and one layer with red. Next it goes into the fridge. The Jell-O hardens, and you can then frost it with Cool Whip. It is dee-lish! I'm sure I had other items on the menu, but I cannot recall them exactly. I know that I had invited my friends, who are still my friends to this day. Bethany, Audri, Audrey (yes we had two!), Becky, Karen, and Dixie...yes. Dixie.
It is with Dixie that my story begins.
I had spent the Friday evening of December 4, 1993, with Dixie. We have known each other since I was about four and she, five. We both attended Hot Springs Baptist Temple in Hot Springs, Arkansas. (Now known as Heritage Baptist Church in Hot Springs.) My family moved to the nearby town of Benton and we lost track of each other. When I was eleven, her family began attending my home church in Benton. Our hearts were knit! However, when I was twelve, Dixie's Dad surrendered to work in evangelism. He assisted Dr. Jack Parchman in his tent meetings. That meant they would travel most of the year! I had already said goodbye to my sister when she left for college, and now, my best friend would be moving away, too! It was a dark day in my life. But the Lord used it for good. It was through Dixie that I met my husband, so I am thankful for the pain of separation. Romans 8:28 is true for even the smallest events in our lives.
Dixie was usually home for the winter. Her family lived in their camper trailer all year long to keep expenses down. They would hook up their camper to our church and attend our school. I've always loved the winter, and I think I finally see why! It meant that Dixie would be home! Dixie invited me to spend the night at her house and help me get ready for the party the next day. Because her camper wasn't large enough for one more, we "camped out" in our church nursery.
I remember we stayed up very late that night...till about midnight! We then made pallets on the floor of the church nursery. We noticed a strange smell, but it was nothing I'd ever smelled before.
"I know what natural gas smells like." I assured her. "And that isn't it, so we don't need to worry."
My family had always warned me about the dangers of natural gas. "If you smell gas, leave the house immediately. Go across the street to the Corbin's or the Logan's house and call for help. Do not turn on lights. Do not make a phone call from home. Only one tiny spark could blow the whole house up." This very thing had happened to lady and her three daughters in our town. They had all perished because the lady had turned on the light to investigate the gas leak.
No one had ever told me about carbon monoxide.
We snuggled up in our sleeping bags and went to sleep.
We slept for eight good hours.
At around eight o'clock the next morning, something awoke me with a start. I felt horrible. My head ached and I was extremely dizzy.
"Dixie. I don't feel so good. I think it's the heat." I mumbled. I got no response.
I got up, and tried to turn the heat down, thinking that I had gotten too hot.
"Dixie. Are you awake?" I asked her again. She finally moaned and stirred a little.
"I'm sick, Dixie. I think I'm gonna havta cancel my party!" I wailed.
"I feel sick, too." Dixie said. She was now propped up on one arm. "VALERIE!" She said suddenly. "It's that gas! We feel funny from whatever that gas smell was!"
"I better call my parents and go home." I said trying to head for our church office.
I got to the office, but could not remember my phone number! I sat by the phone just staring at the numbers. We were so hot. Finally, I gave up trying to think of my number and I lay down on the cool tile floor in our church lobby. Somehow, Dixie made it out to the camper. She was pale and became sick to her stomach. I felt like I was on a carousel that would never stop!
Dixie's Mom came over and helped me out to their camper. She couldn't reach my parents. I then remembered something about their saying they would be Christmas shopping in Little Rock for the morning and would see me around noon. This was the day before cell phones.
Dixie's Mom didn't know what to do. She took us to see Mrs. Parchman, who was a Registered Nurse. (Interesting fact: Mrs. Parchman helped deliver Chelsea Clinton.) I remember that we stumbled up to her front door. Mrs. Parchman, opened the door, took one look at us and said to Mrs. Ault, Dixie's Mom, "Get them to the hospital now."
Mrs. Ault took us to the Children's Hospital in Little Rock. They rushed us past an overflowing waiting room. They finally got a hold of my family to get permission to treat me. I remember the nurse had to put Mom on a speaker phone to have witnesses that Mom said they could treat me. I remember hearing the nurse say, "Okay, Mrs. Courtney, I need to ask you that one more time over the speaker phone. Do we have permission to treat your daughter....(the rest was garbled in woozy brain). Mom calmly replied. "Yes." I wanted to say, "Mom, I'm right here! Can you come up here NOW?" But, I didn't. I didn't need to. My Mom and Dad were soon by my side. What a comfort a loving Mom and Dad are!
They led us back to have blood drawn. A poor intern nurse tried seven times, unsuccessfully, to draw blood on my right arm. Another nurse finally came in and did it after only two times in my left. To this day I won't let them draw blood on my right arm! I bore bruises from that first nurse's attempts for a week.
Dixie and I stayed together through it all. We found out that it was, in fact, Carbon Monoxide poisoning. The exhaust from the heat in the nursery was not properly ventilated. Instead of escaping out doors, it came right in to our room. We were very thankful that it had happened to us, instead of a tiny infant or child! The carbon monoxide molecule replaces the oxygen molecule in your blood. This fools your body into thinking you are getting the oxygen you need, when you in fact, you are not. It is like suffocating the painless way. I had 15% of my blood replaced with the carbon monoxide. Dixie had 19%! That explained why I awoke first and easier than she. Of course, technically, neither of us should have woken on this side of Heaven. Once 25% of your blood is contaminated with carbon monoxide, you must be placed in an iron lung. Thank the Lord, neither of us were that bad. The doctors put us on oxygen, and there we remained for the entire day, into the evening. Once our blood oxygen levels were normal, they dismissed us, informing us of just how lucky we were.
But I know differently. I know it was not luck. I know exactly why I awoke that morning of December 5, 1993. I believe that it was because my guardian angel was there, shaking me until I did awake. Dixie has always been my best friend on earth. It was my very best friend, however, who took care of us both that night.
I praise the Lord for His watch-care over me. I praise the Lord for his protection on December 5, 1993.
It is with Dixie that my story begins.
I had spent the Friday evening of December 4, 1993, with Dixie. We have known each other since I was about four and she, five. We both attended Hot Springs Baptist Temple in Hot Springs, Arkansas. (Now known as Heritage Baptist Church in Hot Springs.) My family moved to the nearby town of Benton and we lost track of each other. When I was eleven, her family began attending my home church in Benton. Our hearts were knit! However, when I was twelve, Dixie's Dad surrendered to work in evangelism. He assisted Dr. Jack Parchman in his tent meetings. That meant they would travel most of the year! I had already said goodbye to my sister when she left for college, and now, my best friend would be moving away, too! It was a dark day in my life. But the Lord used it for good. It was through Dixie that I met my husband, so I am thankful for the pain of separation. Romans 8:28 is true for even the smallest events in our lives.
Dixie was usually home for the winter. Her family lived in their camper trailer all year long to keep expenses down. They would hook up their camper to our church and attend our school. I've always loved the winter, and I think I finally see why! It meant that Dixie would be home! Dixie invited me to spend the night at her house and help me get ready for the party the next day. Because her camper wasn't large enough for one more, we "camped out" in our church nursery.
I remember we stayed up very late that night...till about midnight! We then made pallets on the floor of the church nursery. We noticed a strange smell, but it was nothing I'd ever smelled before.
"I know what natural gas smells like." I assured her. "And that isn't it, so we don't need to worry."
My family had always warned me about the dangers of natural gas. "If you smell gas, leave the house immediately. Go across the street to the Corbin's or the Logan's house and call for help. Do not turn on lights. Do not make a phone call from home. Only one tiny spark could blow the whole house up." This very thing had happened to lady and her three daughters in our town. They had all perished because the lady had turned on the light to investigate the gas leak.
No one had ever told me about carbon monoxide.
We snuggled up in our sleeping bags and went to sleep.
We slept for eight good hours.
At around eight o'clock the next morning, something awoke me with a start. I felt horrible. My head ached and I was extremely dizzy.
"Dixie. I don't feel so good. I think it's the heat." I mumbled. I got no response.
I got up, and tried to turn the heat down, thinking that I had gotten too hot.
"Dixie. Are you awake?" I asked her again. She finally moaned and stirred a little.
"I'm sick, Dixie. I think I'm gonna havta cancel my party!" I wailed.
"I feel sick, too." Dixie said. She was now propped up on one arm. "VALERIE!" She said suddenly. "It's that gas! We feel funny from whatever that gas smell was!"
"I better call my parents and go home." I said trying to head for our church office.
I got to the office, but could not remember my phone number! I sat by the phone just staring at the numbers. We were so hot. Finally, I gave up trying to think of my number and I lay down on the cool tile floor in our church lobby. Somehow, Dixie made it out to the camper. She was pale and became sick to her stomach. I felt like I was on a carousel that would never stop!
Dixie's Mom came over and helped me out to their camper. She couldn't reach my parents. I then remembered something about their saying they would be Christmas shopping in Little Rock for the morning and would see me around noon. This was the day before cell phones.
Dixie's Mom didn't know what to do. She took us to see Mrs. Parchman, who was a Registered Nurse. (Interesting fact: Mrs. Parchman helped deliver Chelsea Clinton.) I remember that we stumbled up to her front door. Mrs. Parchman, opened the door, took one look at us and said to Mrs. Ault, Dixie's Mom, "Get them to the hospital now."
Mrs. Ault took us to the Children's Hospital in Little Rock. They rushed us past an overflowing waiting room. They finally got a hold of my family to get permission to treat me. I remember the nurse had to put Mom on a speaker phone to have witnesses that Mom said they could treat me. I remember hearing the nurse say, "Okay, Mrs. Courtney, I need to ask you that one more time over the speaker phone. Do we have permission to treat your daughter....(the rest was garbled in woozy brain). Mom calmly replied. "Yes." I wanted to say, "Mom, I'm right here! Can you come up here NOW?" But, I didn't. I didn't need to. My Mom and Dad were soon by my side. What a comfort a loving Mom and Dad are!
They led us back to have blood drawn. A poor intern nurse tried seven times, unsuccessfully, to draw blood on my right arm. Another nurse finally came in and did it after only two times in my left. To this day I won't let them draw blood on my right arm! I bore bruises from that first nurse's attempts for a week.
Dixie and I stayed together through it all. We found out that it was, in fact, Carbon Monoxide poisoning. The exhaust from the heat in the nursery was not properly ventilated. Instead of escaping out doors, it came right in to our room. We were very thankful that it had happened to us, instead of a tiny infant or child! The carbon monoxide molecule replaces the oxygen molecule in your blood. This fools your body into thinking you are getting the oxygen you need, when you in fact, you are not. It is like suffocating the painless way. I had 15% of my blood replaced with the carbon monoxide. Dixie had 19%! That explained why I awoke first and easier than she. Of course, technically, neither of us should have woken on this side of Heaven. Once 25% of your blood is contaminated with carbon monoxide, you must be placed in an iron lung. Thank the Lord, neither of us were that bad. The doctors put us on oxygen, and there we remained for the entire day, into the evening. Once our blood oxygen levels were normal, they dismissed us, informing us of just how lucky we were.
But I know differently. I know it was not luck. I know exactly why I awoke that morning of December 5, 1993. I believe that it was because my guardian angel was there, shaking me until I did awake. Dixie has always been my best friend on earth. It was my very best friend, however, who took care of us both that night.
I praise the Lord for His watch-care over me. I praise the Lord for his protection on December 5, 1993.
Psalm 91:11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Vacation Journal ~ Part Five ~ Church, North Carolina Style
Well, here it is, December already, and I hadn't even finished chronicling my summer vacation!! Mercy! I suppose I got a little carried away with my love story and other exciting happenings. Life gets pretty crowded when you're busy with things like roasting marshmallows, watching Doris Day movies and helping my cappuccino and marshmallow creme to reconcile. You know, matters of international importance. I believe all is quiet on the morning beverage front, for now anyway, so I can get back to telling you about my wonderful vacation!!!
On July 29, 2008, we spent the day together as a family. It was the fourth anniversary of my Dad's home going. If possible, I try to be with family on this day. Not so we can all sit around and grieve and mourn, but so we can be busy enjoying each other's presence. I try to be with others so that I will NOT grieve or mourn. I tend to be sad when I am alone. When other's are with me, I find myself getting wrapped up in talking, helping, listening, and even laughing. It worked! It did not even occur to me that it was the anniversary until late in the day. I do miss my Dad, but I try not to grieve anymore. After all, he has never been better. Tears of sadness do still sweep over me, but not like they used to. Time may not heal, but it surely does help!
Here are some photos of that day:
Laci is stylin' in her Mr. Potato Head glasses! I believe it's the newest trend!
For some reason, whenever Laci hears "Cheese" this is what she does. I see so much of her Dad in her! (wink wink)
Laci and her sweet cousin, Andrew.
All of my kids are just like their Dad! I can't get over it, they are just carbon copies! Here's Lauren with her injured cousin, Stephen.
My three nephews! Andrew, Stephen and David Allen.
David Allen was called away for emergency surgery, or something like that, so Laci stepped in to take his place.
On July 30, 2008, we were privileged to attend the Wednesday night service at my sister's church, Gospel Light Baptist Church in Walkertown, North Carolina. We happened to be there during the National Sword of the Lord Conference! It was amazing. We heard Bro. Bobby Roberson, my sister's pastor, preach, followed by Dr. Clarence Sexton, pastor of Temple Baptist Church in Powell, Tennessee. My husband attended the morning and some afternoon sessions of the conference. I only attended the regular service times. I know, how terrible! But, you see, I had not been to North Carolina in about ten years. I had to squeeze in all the fellowship that I could! ;)
I had tears in my eyes listening to this godly man say how he felt inadequate. I believe that's why Gospel Light Baptist Church is the great church that it is. It is a great church because Bro. Bobby let's God run things. He gives God all the glory for the great things that are done at his church. Yes, Bro. Bobby is a faithful man, but God does all the rest. If you are ever near Walkertown, North Carolina, do stop in and visit this wonderful church. You will not be sorry. My husband has invited Bro. Bobby to come preach at our church and do you know what? He said yes!! He actually agreed to come here to the tiny town of Hope, Arkansas, and preach for a very unknown preacher, in a not-so-large church. He talked to my husband himself!! What an honor! After visiting this church for the first time in many, many years, I can see anew why my sister loves this place so much! There are so many good people, under such a good pastor, serving our Heavenly Father, in that place. Who could ask for more?
What a great photo of the banner!! Yes, it is! You can get great photos of the ceiling when you are on the very tip-top row of the balcony!! :)
Here are some of the kids right before church started.
Here's a photo of the amazing choir! I could only dream of being in a choir that size! I love the "new look" they have given their auditorium. Yes, I know it was several years ago, but like I said, I hadn't been there in a looooong time!
Here is Bro. Bobby preaching! Do you see the couple in the choir loft? Anyone can go sit in the choir loft during the preaching. I would love to do that, but no one wanted to join me. I hated to be all by myself in the choir loft. Wouldn't it be cool to look out at an auditorium this size that was full of people? I think so! ;) We could smile and wave and look for folks sleeping! Let me know if you want to try it. ;)
Here is Dr. Clarence Sexton preaching. I guess the couple left. :(
See you soon!
On July 29, 2008, we spent the day together as a family. It was the fourth anniversary of my Dad's home going. If possible, I try to be with family on this day. Not so we can all sit around and grieve and mourn, but so we can be busy enjoying each other's presence. I try to be with others so that I will NOT grieve or mourn. I tend to be sad when I am alone. When other's are with me, I find myself getting wrapped up in talking, helping, listening, and even laughing. It worked! It did not even occur to me that it was the anniversary until late in the day. I do miss my Dad, but I try not to grieve anymore. After all, he has never been better. Tears of sadness do still sweep over me, but not like they used to. Time may not heal, but it surely does help!
Here are some photos of that day:
Laci is stylin' in her Mr. Potato Head glasses! I believe it's the newest trend!
For some reason, whenever Laci hears "Cheese" this is what she does. I see so much of her Dad in her! (wink wink)
Laci and her sweet cousin, Andrew.
All of my kids are just like their Dad! I can't get over it, they are just carbon copies! Here's Lauren with her injured cousin, Stephen.
My three nephews! Andrew, Stephen and David Allen.
David Allen was called away for emergency surgery, or something like that, so Laci stepped in to take his place.On July 30, 2008, we were privileged to attend the Wednesday night service at my sister's church, Gospel Light Baptist Church in Walkertown, North Carolina. We happened to be there during the National Sword of the Lord Conference! It was amazing. We heard Bro. Bobby Roberson, my sister's pastor, preach, followed by Dr. Clarence Sexton, pastor of Temple Baptist Church in Powell, Tennessee. My husband attended the morning and some afternoon sessions of the conference. I only attended the regular service times. I know, how terrible! But, you see, I had not been to North Carolina in about ten years. I had to squeeze in all the fellowship that I could! ;)
We heard "Bro. Bobby" (as they all call him) preach on the previous Sunday. I must tell you that this man is the most humble man I have ever heard. His church runs about 2,800 - 3,000 and yet he does not get up and boast about the the attendance. I am sure he has some faults, for we all do, but many of us have one glaring fault.: we are not able to admit that we do have faults. Bro. Bobby knows he isn't perfect, as the following story will demonstrate. Forgive me for paraphrasing!
"Many years ago when we first started our Christian school, we began hiring teachers. They had Master's degrees and Doctorates, and PhDs. They spoke good grammar. I became intimidated. I'm just an old country boy. I don't know good grammar. I went to the Lord and said 'Lord. I believe I've done all I can to build this church. I don't fit here anymore. I'll just be happy to go up on some mountain somewhere and preach in a small church.' It was just then that the Lord got a hold of me and said 'WHO did you say was building this church? It isn't you! I'M building this church.' I said, 'Lord, you're right. I'm sorry. I'll just stay right here if that's where you want me."
I had tears in my eyes listening to this godly man say how he felt inadequate. I believe that's why Gospel Light Baptist Church is the great church that it is. It is a great church because Bro. Bobby let's God run things. He gives God all the glory for the great things that are done at his church. Yes, Bro. Bobby is a faithful man, but God does all the rest. If you are ever near Walkertown, North Carolina, do stop in and visit this wonderful church. You will not be sorry. My husband has invited Bro. Bobby to come preach at our church and do you know what? He said yes!! He actually agreed to come here to the tiny town of Hope, Arkansas, and preach for a very unknown preacher, in a not-so-large church. He talked to my husband himself!! What an honor! After visiting this church for the first time in many, many years, I can see anew why my sister loves this place so much! There are so many good people, under such a good pastor, serving our Heavenly Father, in that place. Who could ask for more?
After Bro. Bobby preached, Dr. Clarence Sexton came and preached. It was a very good message; very convicting! He preached about how we have lost an entire generation of children in our churches. It was a wake up call for sure. After the service, we were able to go to the gym to see the various booths that were set up with items for sale. We were able to meet Dr. Sexton, and he signed a book that he was giving away. He made a point to speak to Lauren and sign her book. He talked to my nephew, David Allen, for a moment. David Allen now wants to attend Crown College! He was very kind to me and Terry. It was such a blessing to meet him.
Here are some photos of the evening:
What a great photo of the banner!! Yes, it is! You can get great photos of the ceiling when you are on the very tip-top row of the balcony!! :)Here are some of the kids right before church started.Here's a photo of the amazing choir! I could only dream of being in a choir that size! I love the "new look" they have given their auditorium. Yes, I know it was several years ago, but like I said, I hadn't been there in a looooong time!Here is Bro. Bobby preaching! Do you see the couple in the choir loft? Anyone can go sit in the choir loft during the preaching. I would love to do that, but no one wanted to join me. I hated to be all by myself in the choir loft. Wouldn't it be cool to look out at an auditorium this size that was full of people? I think so! ;) We could smile and wave and look for folks sleeping! Let me know if you want to try it. ;)Here is Dr. Clarence Sexton preaching. I guess the couple left. :(
We had a wonderful time attending the services. My husband learned a lot from the morning sessions. In fact, Dr. Shelton Smith will be with us this coming Sunday. Terry would like to talk to him and get ideas, or counsel. Dr. Smith pastored for many years, and has been down the road farther than either of us have been. A leader should always be learning. I'm thankful that my husband doesn't believe that he has the corner on the "ideas" market. I'm thankful for the teachable spirit that he has, and I long to be the same way.
See you soon!
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