My Favorite Holiday

Why is Thanksgiving my favorite?????

The greatest joy and happiness I hold dearest is to be thankful.

Being grateful.

I cannot even begin to say the countless many many birthday parties, shower events, wedding receptions, etc. I've been to where the receiving of gifts has been given and the recepient never even bothered to say "Thank You." I know the world is full of "Takers" but come on.....a simple "thank you" would have been so great to hear.

Are we supposed to acknowledge to the person who sent a thank you....thanks for the thank you note???? Hmmmmmmmmmm Anybody have an answer????? Yesterday I took a thank-you note in person to my friend who did my facial for my big day Sunday. (She even came over to the church and "dolled me up" and then attended the Ceremony.) And she said "Carol this is so sweet of you to bring me a thank you note the day after." It couldn't be quick enough for me. My hairdresser even came real early to the church to give me a gift of fixing my hair so pretty!!! Wow! I am so grateful. Yes, I will even be sending out Thank You's to my family who gave so much of their time ...... the list goes on and on.

It shouldn't stress ANYONE out to take a minute out of their day and say "Thank You." Okay I'm getting rouled up, but pla----eeeeeze.....either take a small gift as a token of appreciation even for Thanksgiving dinner you receive from your family or whomever and please remember to say Thank You. I wish I could begin a Global Campaign to remind everyone to be thankful!!!!

Our kids and grandkids always thank me and it gives me great joy because they are so grateful. I'm so glad I have a family that cares. My heart is blessed. These are truly my caring thoughts........Philippians 4:6 "Be careful for nothing, but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known." Happiest of Thanksgiving everyone!!!!

Majestic!!!!

It's very hard to describe something that's particularly beautiful or majestic in whatever way that's fresh and original.

Breathtaking from start to finish - this gorgeous and proportionally large levels of awesomeness from start to finish.

How do you describe something beyond description?

I'm speechless!

The church had an overflowing crowd (we had to put in extra chairs in the lobby!!)

The ceremony was far beyond my comprehension. Remembering, my husband and the Pastor officiating were the master minds of this glorious event and it was definitely unknown to me what would take place. All I knew was to let the family know the colors I selected, reception decor (& of course, I personally delivered in person the invitations or mailed and called every person (that's a brag on God...He gave me JUST enough time) and be the lovely honoree (bride!!!).
Thank you each and every one for attending, participating, and being there for us. We are blessed beyond more than we could ask or think. Majestic!!!

.....the love of family and friends for our Ruby 40th!! Thank you for sharing what's closes to our heart, our home....dreams fulfilled, joys multiplied and a love that's grown deeper and sweeter with time.

......a God, who touches the world with beauty, touches hearts with love......and the love of one anoher..........Romans 13:8

It's Here!!!!!

40 years ago I married the love of my life.
What a celebration we will have today!
Love is in the air!!!
Love, love, love, love.....
Appreciation, appreciation, appreciation to all participants!!!!
See ya soon!

Countdown

27 hours............to our big fantastic day!



yea!!!!! I know we will see you there, and I do know this is going to be a GREAT day! 40 years ago just seems just like yesterday!!! Enjoy your day today and whatever makes you happy. I know I am!!!!!!

Be blessed!

Countdown

Almost here.......
24....23.....22....21....20.....19.....18....17....16.....15....14....13....12....11....10....9....8....9....8....7....6....5....4....3....2....1....

Compatibility in Marriage

As I wondered about and all over with such an exciting attitude toward our 40th Wedding Anniversary Sunday, and everyone gasping saying "40 years!..our's didn't even last 40 days!!!!" My excitement draws a crowd; guess my voice goes up a notch when I really get excited! (I'd rather be excited, than drainy, draggy any day!!!) So, I have been thinking about the old fashioned marriage term, compatibility.

What does that mean to me? I'm on a soapbox because I believe compatibility in marriage works! Here it is in a nutshell:

My Husband and I: Endure long and are patient (him being more patient and me enduring) .....one or the other has these marvelous character qualities.

Not envious and never boil over with jealousy for each other. (In other words, I don't have a chain around his ankle and he is not envious when I am honored for things.

We are not boastful or vainglorious, and we do not display ourselves haughtily; not conceited, arrogant and inflated with pride. Gratitude and appreciation will extend well beyond 40 years, believe you me!!!!! That is a must!!!!

Rude and unmannerly......after all these years, we still say please and thank you!!!

Suffered wrong?? - GET OVER IT....BE FAIR.....plain and simple. (It's not fair for one person to really be doing his/her part and the other one going off in outer orbit messing things up!!!! I'm a proverbial optimist and actually he is too....that is definitely compatibility!

Ouch....here's a SUPER PHENOMENAL ONE: Right and truth must prevail. When I was a kid there was one thing I got a "whippin'" for.....if I told a lie...I'm so truthful now.....honestly it angers me when I know someone is not telling the truth to me! Hello!! Trust is vital! We do not rejoice at injustice. This pushes mine and his button! Oh boy!

Bearing up under anything and everything that comes. I have a few shock absorber shoes and callused knees in prayer for this one. We are ever ready to believe the best of each other. Our hopes are fadeless under all circumstances.

Our love never fails -

..... it never fades out or become obsolete or comes to an end; we speak truly, deal truthfully, and live truly. We are enfolded in love and have grown up in every way and in all things, delighting in one another, forgiving, and esteeming each other.

Our marriage grows stronger each day. My desire is to honor and praise my husband; I confess that I am a submitted wife, simply because I want to be and I recognize and thank God for my husband who is head over me, and I take on the challenge in Proverbs 31:10-31; I am as this woman is - a loving, successful, submitted wife and I can guarantee you, he is committed as equally.

We discussed a portion of our goals for the next 40 years..... "Have fun" our kids always say (I think I take life far too serious) and "tell my hubby at least a hundred times how much I love him"; and his goal (are you ready?????) "Can't wait to see me with beautiful silver hair" .....I do tease him that he "just married me for my beautiful red hair!!!" Oh, his other goal - this is a good one - "give me the 14 hugs a day which I need to survive!!!!" There's a lot more, but I have to go pick up the flowers this morning for this extraordinary event!!!

Hey Wives.....Don't Get Pushy!!!

This is more of an admonishment, instead of a "caring thought." I want to advise all we women (or is the appropriate word "ladies?" And I hate being called a "Gal" well, we need to check our "Push" buttons today .... reminders are always good to know, especially if you see, know, and will admit you are "pushing" to get your way and when you realize it....don't do it....caution....

Check yourself out...not a good thing to do (be "pushy," that is)....realize the decisions your husband (or significant other) has to make in the kazillion things he has to do....so back off....make his favorite spaghetti dish (that's what I'm doing tonight) with warm garlic bread and am throwing in a nice tossed salad which he dearly loves also.

Make his day....go ahead and make it.......I dare you!!!! Get your mind off of being pushy!!! Come on....admit it....we all do it, but it needs to stop!
Sending hugs, 'cause I know you can do it!!!!!
Carol

Carol's Caring Admonishments!

Be a part of the answer instead of the problem!

Look for positive ways to help others.

Help a person who might be going through some struggles.

KFC has an all day special: Chicken Fried Steak, with white or dark gravy; mashed potatoes/gravy and choice of side dish for $1.99.
Go buy 2 persons' lunch!!!! ..or maybe 4!!! (or for supper).

Send an e-mail to thank someone who has been a special blessing!

Pray for God to really bless someone! (My list is a mile long!)

Go for a long walk with your dog!!!!

Spread a little love and joy around!!!!!!

Instead of thinking of what you don't have, think of being grateful (as my Mom used to say) for a roof over your head!!!!

Rejoice over someone's else's victories!!!!!

Love your enemies......and forgive them......oh, that's a great one!!!!

I think I'll close by saying the best one yet: SMILE - a smile costs nothing, but its value is priceless. It enriches the one who gives it, yet it is so powerful! It happens in a flash, but the memory of it lasts! If you meet an acquaintance or a friend who fails to flash a smile, give one of yours. No one needs a smile so much as the person who has none to give!

Kids Teach Parents In Later Years

Wow! I could blog on this all day! Several ocasions I have been privileged to speak at Women's Retreats, Pastor Wife's Functions, etc. of course. I love to give illustrations of lessons learned in my own life. I can only say with so much gratitude I cannot thank God enough for what I've learned from our kids (total grown ups and sooooo intelligent in whatever they say).....would it be proper to say, they teach me what is going on, taking place, in this particular TIME in events, the world, in other words....they are cool!!!! And me, not wanting to be behind times, I listen intently! I love and am so challenged by their words of wisdom! Believe you me, from where I sit, I see parents still wanting to control their kids' lives even at ages past 20!!! To that, I would say get with the program parents.....given them respect, listen to them for a change; they have splendid ideas, gifted encouragement, and highly successful human relation experiences!!!!

I know I will be challenged on this because most parents think God created them to always tell their kids what to do forever.....WRONG parents.....we are to enjoy, have fun with, listen to their thoughts and ideas, and all-inclusive be happy for how much intelligence they have to offer. I want to know our kids' opinions and what they are thinking. If they don't want to give it, that's entirely up to them, but I believe strong, loyal, great families come forth when their opinion is chipped in. I do admonish all kids to have utmost respect for the parents; but I favor loyalty and trust and thank God for their love and "teachings" to me! Life is too short to harbor grudges, unforgiveness, and all the negativity. Stay positive!!! I trust my kids explicity; they will not do me wrong!!! One last thought: I cannot even thank God enough for what our Kids (all included) have done for us through the years in their adult lives.....we are blessed beyond belief! Thanks from the bottom of my heart kids!!!

Countdown

6 more days
144 hours
8,640 seconds
EQUALS
480 Months of being married
14,400 Days of being married
40 Years !!!!!
The BIG day is approaching!!!!
I can hardly wait!!!
I call him my incredible man and he calls me his incredible woman!

I'm Up Early Getting Caught Up On A Book I'm Reading....

Because I cannot wait until Nov. 18th, our awesome day....... I have been spending some time reading Oswald Chambers book "My Utmost For His Highest." Read with me.....

The Undetected Sacredness of CircumstancesWe know that all things work together for good to those who love God . . . —Romans 8:28

The circumstances of a saint’s life are ordained of God. In the life of a saint there is no such thing as chance. God by His providence brings you into circumstances that you can’t understand at all, but the Spirit of God understands. God brings you to places, among people, and into certain conditions to accomplish a definite purpose through the intercession of the Spirit in you. Never put yourself in front of your circumstances and say, "I’m going to be my own providence here; I will watch this closely, or protect myself from that." All your circumstances are in the hand of God, and therefore you don’t ever have to think they are unnatural or unique. Your part in intercessory prayer is not to agonize over how to intercede, but to use the everyday circumstances and people God puts around you by His providence to bring them before His throne, and to allow the Spirit in you the opportunity to intercede for them. In this way God is going to touch the whole world with His saints.

Am I making the Holy Spirit’s work difficult by being vague and unsure, or by trying to do His work for Him? I must do the human side of intercession— utilizing the circumstances in which I find myself and the people who surround me. I must keep my conscious life as a sacred place for the Holy Spirit. Then as I lift different ones to God through prayer, the Holy Spirit intercedes for them.

Your intercessions can never be mine, and my intercessions can never be yours, ". . . but the Spirit Himself makes intercession" in each of our lives ( Romans 8:26 ). And without that intercession, the lives of others would be left in poverty and in ruin.

I would love to see you in Church today.....10:00 a.m. where you will be blessed as you see God's word taught and "the Spirit Himself making intercession." I love reading that in Oswald's book......I believe it. I soak it up and I pray you will too!

Is God There When You Need Him?

Always, always, always!
When you want Him!
When you need Him!
Eternally and forever!

Recently I met with a lady who almost argued with me that God is not there .....much to my amazement; after listening to what she had to say and resisting any slams against God, I pointed out several (& I mean several) Bible verses that show God's almighty, all powerful, ever present being there ALL the time! God doesn't fail us. We mess up by not fully relying on Him to have every single need. I shared with her the time God was what I called EXACTLY there when I needed Him at a time when a emergency medical problem happened with me; the first thing I knew when I awakened, I was in the ER and my husband and kids were looking at a monitor checking my vital signs, and encouraging me to hang on. You bet God was there!

He will always be there for us. Call upon Him for every tiny detail and my favorite life's verse I claim is Jeremiah 33:3 "Call unto me (God) and I will show thee great and mighty things which thou knowest not."

Thank God for life! He is the beginning and the end. ......the same yesterday, today, and forever. He will never leave you or forsake you. That's a promise!

Study On Allergies

I was doing a research on food allergies. I cannot even tolerate milk products. I even put non-dairy cream in my coffee. When I slip up and only eat gravy and biscuits which have milk products, I might as well discipline myself not to slip up, but to pass this particular food up! But, oh, it looks so good and tastes so wonderful. My question is why do we do that to ourselves? I know what it will do to me and I go ahead and eat it. Ugh!!!!!

Another allergy....wool.....I break out in sores if I wear anything resembling wool or fuzzy clothing around my legs!!! The other day I cleaned out my closet and took all wool clothing to Goodwill.

This research has been interesting regarding allergies. If anyone is interested, I can share my results; of course not on blog, but if you don't have time to research yourself, I can give you my findings.

Today is a good day to have wisdom. We'll always find it in the Bible. Do you need encouragement? It, too, lieson the sacred pages of Scripture. Do you need strength? Just reading God's Word infuses you with strength - His strength- for today and hope....His hope for tomorrow. Have a happy Friday! May your dreams,
wishes, and prayers come true!

Do I care?

Will I go out and care early in the morning and help someone? Fully relying on the verse in Psalm 86:17 "You, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me" tells me I absolutely will.

One of my favorite songs goes like this: Take the name of Jesus with you, Child of sorrow and of woe; It will joy and comfort give you; Take it, then, where'er you go. Not really wanting to toot my horn, but the joy and comfort given to me far more supercedes giving up a little of my morning to help a hurting one.

Thus, a belated blog today.

Yes, indeed I care.

Blessings today to you and your's.
Carol

Amazing Statistics!

I love to research. I found that Americans spend six billion dollars a year on gear for their babies. Of the four million babies born here each year, a million of them will be registered at Babies R Us. I'm wondering if they end up selling the baby items on e-bay....how much? I've been in Babies R Us many times and their items look great for the money. It's so much easier when I get invited to a baby shower and they are registered there b/c they can get what they want. FYI: You can also go to Toys R Us to get a gift certificate for Babies R Us.

On another note....I'll be spending approx.8 hours still researching and mailing. + looking for wedding pics............looking forward to a fun day. My husband is brilliant at power point! I hope your day is filled with many blessings and fun things. I recently purchased a "Little Rascals" Video to watch to have some laughter...definitely worth a chuckle.........can't hardly wait to show our grandkids what I watched on TV when I was a kid.....oh boy...and in black and white at that!!!!.........and those are my caring thoughts. Sending hugs, Carol

November - My Favorite Month - Thankful Thoughts I Truly Love

Thank you, God, for this good life and forgive us if we do not love it enough.

Cute Kids

We have the cutest kids in our Nursery at Church. One little girl is seven months old and her Mom dresses her so cute with one of those precious head bands that match. She doesn't pull at the head band and keeps it on the entire time. She loves sitting up. Saturday I had the great time of spending time with her and loved to watch what she does. She's so petite, but she is really set on just sitting. Her Mom said she is going through separation anxiety, but after seeing me on Saturday and then on Sunday.....the trust she had for me was to come to me, willingly, from her Mom and she even reached out for me. Her Mom wanted her to go to the Nursery, so I took her after the song service and she went right in and felt right at home. Her Mom was so happy because she knew she would get lots of caring from our Nursery Worker.

Sometimes we take for granted, all those things that seem so small, like one of God's great treasures.....a small handprint on the wall.

I can say one thing. The kids sure enjoyed all the candy corn given to them that was leftover from Halloween that someone gave us.

This week is starting out so grand! After I saw with the new time change that it is light outside at 7 a.m. now.....I'm a morning person and can really dig this!! I hope your Monday is fantastic!

Sunday Nap.....the Time Change Today

Okay, I have to chime in about the Time Change. A Sunday nap will be of utmost importance in the Donnelson home today. I don't know about y'all, but I do not always wake up refreshed from naps! More often than not, I need to have another quiet time to shake me out of the grumpies!

What extra hour of sleep? Not hardly; I hear my body saying....oh just another time to let me have another hour to be up earlier.....ugh-a!!!! I can dig it!!!

What about you? Did you really get an extra hour of sleep???? To play video games????? To watch movies????? To read????? To walk the dogs????? To journal??? To study???? What do your wee morning hours consist of????

I have been told ladies don't comment on my blog, because they forget their password and would like me to forward them to them via e-mail. When someone that is brilliant on this monster thing called "computer" and you know how to do it, please let me know....I have no earthly idea how to do all the fancy things like "Feed" "RSS" even do pics......I'm a computer geek wannabe; but I'm learning. When our Son put in my blog for me in March of this year...I knew zero; there's a lot I know, but it's just not quite enough. I'm not putting myself down; I'm just facing the fact that I need to learn more; but then again as much as I love blogging, it has given me a interaction with other bloggers and being a people person that I am; it is of utmost concern that in the world of bloggers; reading their's is so rewarding for me!

Today I'm looking forward to W.O.W. Women of Worth Class @ 9 where ladies truly rock! The subject is "Do you really believe the Put-downs?" - a very relevant subject. Character Assissins....see you there! 'N-joy the time change and your Sunday nap also.

How's Your Spaghetti Level?

It seems that everywhere we turn, we hear talk about how healthy spaghetti sauce is to your brain! Physicians are calling it "brain food," thus adding a lot of serotonin to the brain. So, last night on our date night, we went to an Italian Restaurant. We ran into some friends we hadn't seen for at least seven years. They were on their date night also and have been married 55 years!!!! Can you imagine? Our's is coming up on 40. They were saying after being married that long you tend to sit in the corner of a Restaurant and just look at each other......you don't say a word! Just enjoying each other's company....how cool is that???? Mostly, on our date night, I listen to my husband's heart; he shares with me what is going on in his life, stressful issues, etc. I am truly tuned in to listening....he doesn't want any advice, just sharing......I love it because I know all of his time is spent helping families facilitate the process of reaching an agreement on acceptable behavior during family times together. I believe in just about any family, people can get so entangled in disputes and hurt emotions that they need help from a Pastor to restore peace. And I know, without a doubt, we both are burdened and care; that is our passion.

The spaghetti level comes in and to be honest I cannot remember at what year in our marriage, he shared with me that spaghetti is his first choice for food. At this point I'm not sure whether it's because it tastes so delicious or the serotonin level is low. So, since that time when he suggests going to an Italian restaurant; he'll say "I'm pretty sure my spaghetti level is low, let's go." Last night I tried ravioli...........hmmmmmmm I'll have to think on that one.....toss up....I think spaghetti is my choice from now on!

REMEMBER: to set your clocks back 1 hour tonight!!!!!! See ya in Church!

Carrying Each Other's Burdens

Charles Dickens once said: "No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of it to anyone else." One of my other favorite quotes is by Milo Gates:
"The finest test of character is seen
in the amount and the power of gratitude
we have."

And then the question boils down to "What can I do to help this situation be better?"

Always looking to carry each other burdens........ One more thing: I love to read inspirational quotes from ANYONE, and then find a Bible verse that goes along with the quotes:
Galatians 6:2 "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

Are You A Supportive Person? ....random thoughts

Can you not be supportive because you have not forgiven someone for wrongs you think they have done to you? I read over the Bible on what it means to forgive; forget; go on with life....it will seep over into your "supportive" life as a friend, family or others. Support means even if you are "ticked" off at them, you still believe in them, in other words, they don't go down the scale; you still are there for them and will be there for them, through thick or thin!


Whatever it is, no matter how large or small a thing, if you commit to forgive and still support them (including emotional support); it frees us up in serving others, God will use you to build a lasting influence. That's what Christianity is all about. You only hurt yourself when you build walls.......that's another subject.....but I've seen it happen time and time again. So the person had a not so good day......it always gets better.......give it time.....but I believe we all need a dose of good ole' loyal support and I'll give it!!!! Will you?

Happy Halloween/Happy Birthday!!!!

Happy Halloween/Happy Birthday Son. I hope our Son has a phenomenal birthday. I know he's sure brought a tremendous lot of joy in my life.

This blog will be brief. I've been asked to go help a Mom sew her kids' Halloween Costume(s); apparently they are wearing them to school. Wearing them to school should be fun.

All You Need Is Love..........

In my teen years, the song by the Beatles was extremely popular "All you need is love.....love is all you need...." And I can still hear the repeated phrase at the end....love is all you need....love is all you need; they always ended their songs with fading out the real meaning of the song. Maybe they thought in the 60's we just didn't get it....we got it!!!!!

One Author of a book I read on "Love" (Frank Clark) said "A baby is born with a need to be loved and never outgrows it." True, true, true. When love weakens, I remind myself (& so does my husband)...hey we are forgetting to say I love you at the close of our phone conversations. It's never to late to begin saying it! I truly have so much love to give and when I feel like life has a tendency to go sour (like lemons) I pull the reins back and say I need to give out more love.

Believe you me, I've seen so many women go bitter for no unknown reason at all...mostly just because they don't get their way....when if they would just check their "love tank" and see how empty it is; they would begin filling it back up and could graciously sing the awesome song "All you need is love....." and begin to have a joy beyond comprehension. Can you say it?.........I LOVE YOU! How abut the Julie Andrew's Song, "Love makes the world go 'round....." Of course, I deeply love my husband, our kids (of course, all inclusive, daughter-in-law, grandkids; brother and sisters and families..........the list can go on and on.) Christ loved us enough to die on a rugged cross............now that's love!

I've almost memorized I Corinthians. 13 - THE LOVE CHAPTER in THE BIBLE...........MY daily prayer is "God please let me love more...." Today is a great day to spread a little love around and share the joy that you have found......I always start out by saying, i just love the way you are so kind.......or......i love the way you express your thoughts.....or........i love the way you're wearing your hair ........something to spread a little love around. This should be a super Tuesday ...I think I'll begin by making a "Carol's Creative Card" for my hubby, my true love!!!

Fall Time Change

I'll have to quit thinking about it. I've read so many articles in the newspaper about the fall time change. Getting an extra hour of sleep.....now come on....how many people are really going to do that? Having an EXTRA hour in the day will make everyone want to be happy!!! We all do so much for others, we don't think about the EXTRA HOUR of sleep.

But, reminder: at 2 a.m. on Sunday is the time change.....NOVEMBER 4th.

I think the computers and clocks on cells that change have already changed because it usually falls on the last Sunday of October. So don't freak out if you think your time is off. It is! This blog will say 6:19 a.m. on the computer as I am typing it; it's really 7:15 a.m. and it will show that time on the blog. Time is of essence in so many of our lives, of course, but remember to have a happy Monday................sending love and prayers, Carol

Where Is God When You Need Him?

He is there.
Always
Just call upon Him.
Ephesians 3:14-19 is what I read when I ask the question "Where is God when you need Him?"
I promise.........Bears repeating.....He is there.

People Who Purposely Inflict Pain......

........they're not happy.
........are very miserable.
........are untruthful.

Wasting time and energy on revenge is unnecessary.

They are more miserable than they try to make you.

Just keep on being the fun loving, kind, joyful, giving person that you are.

Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending!

Super Friends

We had some super friends call and wanted to stop by and give our church some office supplies (i.e., 1,000 legal envelopes, file folders, name tags, & paper). Wow! How cool is that!!! We were just talking about the fact that we needed to get some envelopes because we were out.

They were telling us they recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary! She is getting ready to retire and he was teasing saying he is a "couch potato." Anyway, it was nice to drop what we were doing and visit with them. It was hard to believe they stayed about an hour, but we all talked about how time flies so quickly these days! They are "cat lovers" and we are "dog lovers" so you can imagine how much fun we had since all our kids are grown adults, but wish our animals would behave accordingly!

Definitely super friends and we wish for them many many more happy years as she was 15 years of age (mind you) when they got married!!! Happy Friday eveyone and God bless your entire day!!!!! :)

Q&A

......or better yet known as "Stump the Pastor".......even though we give honor to the Lord for serving a nice meal to all present, yet, still, there remains anyone who has a question that my husband has not been able to answer. Hark! A couple that have been faithful each week have commented that this week (Sunday after this a.m. Service; 10/28) have a question that they believe will stump him!

It's all in fun, of course, but I've seen some pretty interesting questions and he calmly answers them. As you can see, I love to BRAG on my husband and his quick thinking ability to answer the questions. What a tremendous ability!

One more comment............Sunday's menu is "homemade" tacos, quacamole, and spanish rice! How about some home-grown jalepinos? Yum, yum! We hope we see you there!!

Some Sort of Role Model or Wisdom

For a while, my husband and I were home to watch the "Seinfeld" series at 6:30 p.m. And it seems the major discussion now on "Home" television is the real Jerry Seinfeld's wife has discovered how to keep the right vitamins in the foods for kids to eat....disguising it so the kids will eat sweet potatoes, cauliflower and the many veggies that make for great health. I've seen her on television demonstrating her new recipes to help kids eat healthy foods.

On the other hand, Jerry made a comment "A two-year old is a kind of like having a blender, but you don't have a top for it." From my point of view, it's nice to have a family (in our era it was "Ozzie & Harriet") that has great goals to at least seem normal for a "role model" ..... something to think about.

My prayer and goal is to look carefully to how I walk! I live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as unwise and witless, but as a wise sensible, intelligent person; making the very most of my time - buying up every opportunity to prize Wisdom and when to use it HIGHLY! (II Cor. 5:17)

Attitude of Gratitude Day!

I am very grateful. Today I am grateful for people who take the time out to say "Thank You." I call it an attitude of gratitude. I went over to the church and there was a really cool envelope sticking out of the mailbox with an adorable ribbon tied to it. So, I opened it and it was a beautiful thank you note to "me for being so kind" to a lady I had been communicating with.

All the time I had been thinking how KIND she is and here she sent me the "kind note about me."

It'll make your day! Especially when it comes seemingly out of nowhere. Go ahead make someone's day..........send a warm and fuzzy thank you to someone that means a lot to you....via cell, 'puter, transporting the note to their mailbox, text message, work phone; awe come on; it's heart touching and warming!

Living Today On Yesterday's Blessings

Not only was the church service superb, as well as W.O.W., & 2nd & 10, but KFC had a super special on fried chicken so we invited my husband's Assistant over and her family to eat, complete the administrative work, and watch the ballgame! Just before they were leaving a devout friend of the family came over with a guy who comes to our church and we even had enough chicken to go around the second round! What a blessing with all the activity.

Thank you all for the many prayers for my husband as he has been recovering from a pulled muscle in his back. He says he does not have the spasms anymore and feels so much better!

According to the Barna Group, the average Pastor lasts only five years at a church and churchgoers expect their Pastor to juggle an average of 16 major tasks. Pastors are among the nation's most overworked and underappreciated group of professionals. I would like to personally thank each and everyone for the appreciation they have shown both of us during "OCTOBER PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH."

Yesterday went by so quickly, so we think we'll just live today on yesterday's blessings (which are many) and will be enough to go around the second time! Oh, and may you be blessed a in a marvelous way TODAY ALSO!

Where Do You Put Your Trust?

Interesting question........How about this question: Can you be trusted???

Self???

Wife/Husband???

God???

Kids???

Medicines???

Significant Other???

Friends???

Banks???

Magazines???

Liquor???

Church???

See ya at 9 a.m.- TODAY -W.O.W. Women of Worth and find out the REAL ANSWER.

Defining Woman

It takes valuable time to answer the question "How would you define a woman?" In the environment where I grew up it was understood that the woman would stay in her place at home and in the church. Then when I went to Bible College, the question remained "Was this place God's place for her?" Who decided that she was too emotional to make decisions, and that her ideas and opinions were invalid?

God declares that we are capable, intelligent, and virtuous --- more precious than jewels, and our value is far above rubies or pearls. (Proverbs 31:10). God honored, defended, and valued women. He delivered those in bondage to sin, forgave them and restored them to wholeness!

After many years of fighting to breaking out the mold designed for me by others, I came to know the God who created me. There seemed to be no escape from my prisons of guilt, shame, fear and intimidation. Instead God provided a way of escape and that was to FULLY RELY ON HIM. He would supply my needs and wants! Through prayer I could express the emotions and I could depend on Him second by second!!!! Come on, women, we're so awesome, as He uplifts us to be secure, trustworthy, and cool!

My TODAY is a result of choices I made yesterday. I chose to serve a living God who cares about me, my needs, my wants and my empowerment to make wise decisions. As I assume responsibility for my decisions, I will reap the rewards for trusting Him.

I find that some women are angry with God for His failure to intervene in situations that they actualized by THEIR unwise choices. It is time, I believe for each individual woman to arise, determine her worth, and set positive standards and let God guide, according to His will and purpose.

If you don't fully understand all of this.......set your alarm clock early, and attend W.O.W. Women of Worth (spelled MOM upside down) at 9 a.m. tomorrow in Fellowship Hall. Refreshments will be served. We've had a steady attendance and women are commenting how much it has helped their life to find ANSWERS! Tomorrow's subject is "Authentic Women"............come on out....you'll be glad you did! I promise!

I Cratered....Random Thoughts/Candy Corn

For my husband's b-day (in September), I wrapped his present with corn candy (Brach's)........the best in the whole world! It was a small bag (9 oz.). It was been unopened because he said if it opens, he'll end up eating the whole pkg. in one setting!

Rest of story.......last night for supper I fixed his favorite meal; tender steak, baked potato and steamed cauliflower. That being a lot of carbs, I decided since we didn't have any cookies or sweets.......I would open the candy corn.....so I cratered. As I was quietly opening it, he appeared! He was so surprised because normally I NEVER WANT SWEETS....you can scrape me off the ceiling, especially since I have enough energy for today, tomorrow, and the next day!

That candy corn was so sweet, I don't think either one of us will want ANY candy for the duration!!!! It's going to be very tempting since I OPENED IT....Betcha can't just eat one....I ate four and he ate four, believe it or not. He put the leftovers back in the bag!

It added some humor, we stayed awake discussing why do we always want candy corn at Halloween?? Or, is it just in the fall???? Here's a thought....eating candy corn that late at night is not worth the consequences.... sleep deprivation.......oh well, it won't be the first time I've lost sleep, but rest assured, I will make it up!!! A good thought: Rest assured I will remain sweet and sensitive, eating just one candy corn was like a spoonful of honey; actually the main ingredient is pure honey....it says so on the package! ahhhhh - sweetness....have an awesome and sweeter than ever Friday! I know I will!!!!..........(Be SWEET, that is!)

Seasonal Change

As we watch the leaves change colors this Fall, I hope it reminds all to enjoy the Seasonal Change. It reminds me to trust our unchanging God! Yesterday I did a study on Psalm 37:1-7

Fret not thyself because of evildoers.

They shall soon be cut down like the grass.

Trust in the LORD, and do good.

Delight thyself also in the LORD.

Commit thy way until the LORD.

Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him.

Just what I need! How about you? What are you studying?

One Of My Favorite Verses

"Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering." Hebrews 10:23
This verse calls us to an UNWAVERING commitment to our faith. I need to be reminded of this from time to time. Because..........when we have a goal to bring others to church, we must not give up..........no matter what we face, our God is faithful!

Faithful Creator.....He designed us and knows our every need.

Faithful Savior........He provides us with skills, knowledge and resources to thrive in our surroundings.

Faithful Provider........He desires us to come to Him in prayer that He might meet our needs.

The theme song that our WELCOME MAN gives at church is "Passing the faith along to my brother.....passing the faith along..........Helping to build the faith of another......passing the faith along." If you ever hear that song, you will not forget it. As the teenager I was talking to yesterday said, "God rocks!"

I'll just say, "His faithfulness rocks!"

Remember This.............

"Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect. It means you've decided to see beyond the imperfections."
Anonymous

I hope this touched you!

Please know you are thought, cared, and prayed for, THIS DAY! Watch out for gloom and doomers who will try to steale your joy.........Surround yourself with positive people.........those who are brave enough to tell you to kick the negative thoughts far away.

Annual Appreciation Sunday - WOW!

Okay, I can't help but blog about yesterday's event - Pastor & Wife Appreciation Day actually all over the U.S. I can dig it!!!! Beautiful flowers, lots and lots of gratefulness and appreciation for what we do. My husband doesn't like a lot of hip-hip-hooray because he feels like his job is a higher calling than to brag about his accomplishments and especially since his confidante and prayer warrior in the Ministry, Jerry, has gone home to be with the Lord. Jerry always gave a huge appreciation for knowing my husband and my Father-in-Law, who, of course, led Jerry to Christ. Me....I guess I have a lot of recognition motivation in me (comes from having been a sales consultant for a cosmetic company) and competing to win awards. Also, comes from being the middle child in a pretty big family!

I wanted my husband to be the recipient of the beautiful flowers yesterday because he was having back issues (somehow he has pulled a muscle and it's very uncomfortable), but we both enjoyed the appreciation day! One lady served us lunch; that was really cool!

So, my caring thoughts today are on others who care enough to step out and give their appreciation, loyalty, and gratitude. It'll sure make our week! Thanks everyone for being so caring. What a tremendous Service!

This week is beginning great! I hope you get a lot of appreciation for how great you are and your week will be tremendously blessed. :)

#1 Priority Take Care Of Yourself

Pace yourself: What does that mean? Look at the goals you have and if you see that it is going to put you in "Grouch-ville" take some time out and read a book, or a hot bath, or just sit and stare at the wall, but prepare yourself for fast pace!

My taking time out for self is going to bed earlier the night before and getting an extra hour of zzzzzzzzz's in so I can be mentally, spiritually, physically, and emotionally prepared the next day for whatever befalls me. Just getting that extra time to curl up with a very very special nighttime prayer to God and ask Him to make me an instrument of His will, to get a great night's sleep, and be prepared for the day for ALL the things I have to do. Everyone knows I'm a high spirited person anyway, but when I take care of myself by seeking God to help me, then I dump it on Him and He takes care of me. As they used to say in Oklahoma, "taking care of it with one stone aiming at two objects."

How many of you really take time out for yourself? A MUST......A HAVE TO.......A VITAL!!!!! (& believe you me it is not being "Self Righteous!")

Gotta get ready for Church. We have Q&A today and we have a new family that is coming. We are having hotdogs Virginia style...oh yummy!.......can't wait. See you there..........10 a.m. Let's pack out the Worship Center for God!!!!

It's Back!!!!

Yes, I had computer withdrawals while mine was in getting fixed.

Yes, I shared with my husband his computer. He didn't mind at all. It was odd thinking of what to write on blog with all my pics he has of me in his office.

Yes, I moved my desk area several times to get re-situated.

Yes, I am extremely thankful to have MY OWN 'puter. Everything is cool now!

God is sooooo good. See ya in Church tomorrow. 10 a.m.

Celebrating No Dog Bark Week!

Hasn't this been amazing week? Every single day was filled with enjoyment! Maybe I could declare this "National Dog Week!" I had to take Pixie in for grooming this week and they put the cutest Halloween ribbons on that cutie pie's ears; she didn't like it, so she kept swishing her head back and forth to get them off. I'm going back today (I was in a huge hurry yesterday) to really thank the Groomer for the extra care they gave her. Then we saw two very well behaved dogs at a home last night; then we have rejoiced over the greatest fact that this has been a NO DOGS BARKING IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD Week! I'm wondering - can't these people hear their poor dogs outside barking at their own house???? The minute our dogs bark outside, we go out immediately and quiet them down. My husband says that Pixie barks at a leaf that moves. A-ha...then Chloe, our dog for thirteen years (or has it been fourteen?); if she barks we know it's for a reason. The dogs that have been barking in the neighborhood have a shrill bark with a rhythm to it...extremely annoying!

So, congratulations neighbors for giving your Dog very special attention and it's been a quiet, peaceful celebration! Have a super happy Friday! Yea....it is Friday in all it's glory!!!! Spread some love around to your Dog (s); I know i am!

Pest Control

I'm not sure whether this throat drainage I have awakened to is from the Pest Control Spraying for any and all bugs outside, inside, upside, two days ago, but it's annoying! Weather change??? Cleaning chemicals????

All I can say is hopefully it won't last that long, but I look forward to not seeing any "pests" and I do mean any! As a child I was raised in the country and all we saw was "lightening bugs" and they were lots of fun, catching them, waiting 'til dark and see them light up! But, these creatures now do not go away until a Pest Control Company is called to do a treatment!

Today looks like a great day to chew on a few cough drops, watch a funny movie, and do some prayer journaling! I do think we are headed for some cooler weather, so green tea sounds soothing also!

Give More Compliments & Then Some!

I just cannot compliment my beloved husband enough! I'm blessed to think of his many talents, skills, and "there isn't a thing he can't put together." Recently he finished a master-piece model ship; even made the case, and has presented to our Son. It's awesome! I tease him saying "I've been widowed to a ship" but you know what? I wouldn't trade the tremendous fun, enjoyment, and brilliancy he possessed to get it finished. It took a total of nine years he said! When you've been married as long as we have, and work together as a team at church, you tend to need some .....

space,

private time, (Time-Out)

get-away from each other (breathing space),

individualized hobby, or accomplishments alone.

and I say this with love, honor, and respect!

I list could go on and on.

But, the one thing we need to do more of ......ladies........is be ever so grateful for our husband working so hard, providing, and giving us just ANYTHING we want! Sometimes he works (appointments at the church) upwards of 10 p.m. and I tell him how grateful I am for ALL his accomplishments. He can come home, relax, turn on his favorite TV show, and unwind. I compliment him for that. What husband wants to hear "do this, why don't you come home earlier?"......, guilt, guilt, guilt. I'm pretty sure husbands don't like the push, push, push, because they don't do it to us. I truly have learned the art (this is a brag on God truly helping me!!!) of when my husband walks in the door; not bombard him with this, that, and the other. And as Niki says 'JUST DO IT' ....give more compliments, and then some!

Forgiveness Means The Slate Is Wiped Clean

Why is it there is such a difficult decision to forgive?

After hurt, we will never feel ready to forgive someone. I find my answer in Matthew 18 regarding forgiveness and the example of Jesus.

The more quickly we begin the process as He mentioned, we do not allow pain to dominate our being.

It's up to us to take the first step. The journey ends when "Yes" is given. I believe the slate is wiped clean; history; no more; gone.

Forgiveness is not a feeling; it's a fact that WE MUST FORGIVE AND FORGET! I am not a grudge carrier. I've seen some people that will not let the past be forgotten. I'm a "Visionary Person" - I visually see in my mind a clean slate (God also saying to forgive 70 X 70, why bring it up?)

I hope you have many many victories in forgiving others. I think about how gracious others have been to me regarding bloops, blunders, and mess-ups; therefore, I forgive quickly and lovingly.

Starting all over is the greatest joy one can experience!!! Begin that journey. Today is a great day to simply forgive.

86% Believe In God

Do you believe in God?

NBC this morning had a poll on this question. They had the highest number of responses that they have ever had for one of their polls, and the percentage was the same as this:

86% to keep the words, In God We Trust and God in the Pledge of Allegiance
14% against.

That is a pretty 'commanding' public response.

It is said that 86% of Americans believe in God. Therefore, I have a very hard time understanding why there is such a mess about having "In God We Trust" on our money and having "One Nation Under God" in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Why is the world catering to this 14%?

I totally believe in God and am eternally grateful for His provision and do put my trust in Him fully!

"Refrigerator Rights Family"

Yep, that's the title of my W.O.W. study today! Being 94% self reliant. What's the other 6%?

I spent some time yesterday with a lady who wants to give her input on going through divorce. She has some heart wrenching words as to what her part was.....whoa!!!!!

Do you have a barefoot buddy?

Because you're seen so many phoney Christians, do you doubt Christianity is real?

Short blog because W.O.W. Bible verses are where the caring answers are!

9 a.m. :) Refreshments will be served.

Outlook On Life

Comments re: Church & Life

SUPER!!!

MARVELOUS!!

AMAZINGLY INCREDIBLE!!!

I SIMPLY LOVE, AM MADLY IN A GREAT FEELING OF WHAT I CALL "HAPPYVILLE" ON LIFE!!!

LC ROCKS!!!!!

There's a guy who comes to our church every Sunday (never misses) and the first thing he says when he enters and is greeted with a Bulletin, "I just love coming here and it feels so good to know I will be blessed by both of you." I will honestly say, his outlook on life on Sunday is there's no ifs, ands, and doubt about it, this is where he brings his family to worship every week!

Does Church make your outlook on life better? Worse? Of course I would love to know. Especially since this is my biggest OUTREACH day!!!

After taking the entire week and not going to the Church building, but doing a whole bunch of home makeovers, I cannot wait to go to the church today, and he is right, when you first walk in, there's a feeling of "belongingness" "safeness" "Hope" "I love it!" "Security" "Family Feeling" .... and the list goes on and on.

PEOPLE make the church; it's not about the beautiness of the building, although that helps, but the warmth felt by this Pastor and Wife and others. What I like most, is no one tries to pry in your life or run your life. You can just be YOU, arrive at 10 a.m., worship, leave, and know you've been given a NEW OUTLOOK ON LIFE, possibly something we never thought was in the Bible, go to your own home and enjoy Sunday to the fullest. My husband's messages are relevant (& actually he's a humorous speaker). Personally I love being challenged by his Series of messages. Right now the subject is the dreaded "S" word by so many women -"Submission." Come on out, help us fill the Worship Center to the max!!!! See you there!!! In the meantime, enjoy your Saturday! :)

LF - Likability Factor Randomness

Lately I've heard statements "I could give a rip whether anyone likes me or not." or "I know I'm not liked, who cares." or heres a good one "Who cares whether I'm liked or not?? Grrrr grrr") Where do you think you rate on the LF?

In looking back over my life, I can honestly say I have lived the best of both worlds; People Pleaser; Non-People Pleaser. After a very thorough study of the greatest book I'll ever want in my life, the Bible, I became a God pleaser. Do I mess up? Most assuredly, but the fact is basing answers and debates, the Bible is THE MOST ACCURATE and I feel rates pretty far up the scale with a LF!

Most women think the Bible is boring. I'd like to know which part they are reading? No....definitely not boring! Very relevant to what is happening in our lives TODAY!

I teach a W.O.W. Class every other week at our Church. The class has grown significantly. (I would say from 1 to over 10 would definitely classify super growth!) That's my vision, passion, to look out at the women in the class and learn how lives can be for the better; not push, push, push their husbands, but challenges in their own life to be real, be trusted, have the LF factor!!!!

This Sunday is going to be about Connection, Plugging In, Getting Beyond Walls Women Put Up........see you all there..........9 a.m.

Refreshments will be served and plenty of flavors of orange juice for sure!!!! I'm always a "Wannabe Likable" ---------------are you?
Awe common' I know you are!

Tonight is FNDN.........whoopee!!!!!!!!!!!

New Blog Look

My husband is teaching me Power Point! Now that I've ventured out to places known on the computer, I decided to go into Template and change the look of my blog. I don't have a problem with change, however, some people do. The only way it can be changed is two choices; the other look or this one. I kinda like this one. I'm sure I'll be changing it back, but for now it's been fun to be creative. It looks sort of Halloweenish! Ta-dah!!!!

My caring thoughts today; don't let the sun go down on your wrath. (Ephesians 4:26) That's a biblical quote that has been long overlooked these days. Yesterday I was talking to a lady who has carried a grudge against her mother-in-law for 22 years and she is "not going to apologize." My heart aches for her because after wrath (anger) comes bitterness, and once in that locked attitude, sends what I call ugly behavior! And people that have bitterness, it shows, believe you me! It will affect her health. It's sad and tragic, when all she has to do is say "I was wrong, I am sorry for hurting you like I did." Apologizing is not a sign of a wimp or weakness. It makes for what I call "clean living." Give me some of that. We all are better off not letting the sun go down on our wrath. She is the one that looses out by not having peace, love and contentment toward probably everyone.

Let me know either by e-mail or blog whether you like the new look and thanks for listening in.

Green Thumb

I've been told by our beloved daughter that I have a green thumb! If it's possible to inherit something from daughter to Mom, then I got it from her. But for my birthday she got me the most gorgeous gardenia "tree" plant. What's really weird is that according to Martha Stewart's office, where she sent it from.....gardenias are supposed to bloom in Spring.....hello - there are six absolutely gorgeous gardenia flowers that burst out just in one day! It's like she just bundled up a whole new present and sent me a flower bouquet!!!! The smell of the gardenias is heavenly!

Back to the green thumb. Repotting plants is not my forte. But I can see I am going to have to make myself repot.....ugh.....some plants I have definitely need repotting. I'll have to do it. She says when a plant gets pot bound, it will whither away and soon be gone. I sure don't want that to happen. Well, it's off to the shed for bigger clay pots (I hope I have some) and doing the dreaded task. They are beautiful plants (6 to be exact) and make rooms so lovely. It's kind of like watching our grandkids grow...you see them one day and the next week, they look at least a foot taller. Growth is healthy and I do enjoy healthy plants.....I really do! Guess I also will accept the fact that I HAVE A GREEN THUMB! Thanks dear daughter for always encouraging me to repot, pamper, and love those plants! I have to tell about the time she planted fabulous morning glories (purple) in our yard and after four years of those magnificent plants and other periannuals in our yard, they grow every year so very lovely and definitely enjoyable.

That reminds me. We're getting ready to give the front yard a "makeover." Might as well, sit back, relax and enjoy the ride......have a super Wednesday! and remember to thank God for all His provisions as well as lovely, lovely flowers, plants, buses, greenery, trees and awesome landscaping yards, indoor plants, and for sure a green thumb!!! :-)

Study On Wisdom

As I've often heard kids say "That's cool!" I found a quote by an Anonymous person that says "Wisdom is knowing when to speak your mind and when to mind your speech." I've had so many (women, men, teens) comment regarding my blogs and saying due to their busy schedules do not have time to comment. That's okay - to me that's the wisdom of pacing oneself as they go about a busy week! No problem with me. I'm glad to put out "caring thoughts" and "minding my speech."

Ecclesiastes 7:4 says "Wisdom is good with an inheritance and by it there is profit to them that see it"...seek wisdom....."a wise woman buildeth her household instead of tearing it down." It's a great study and all I can think of to say is "Ain't God good?" He surely purely is!!!!

Hugs,
Carol

God Sees The Heart.....random thoughts.......

As long as we have a clear conscience, the thoughts or words from others can neither add to nor subtract from true worth. We are what we are and God sees us as we truly are.

My value from God does not depend upon the judgments of people. He looks upon the heart and sees my intentions and sincere efforts. Too often we're judged by a person's own likes and dislikes or by their own vanity and fixed ideas.

It is impossible to satisfy everyone. I labor hard to improve the lives of women (because they seek my help), but cannot prevent the harsh criticisms and judgments of some. My life is based on what God sees from the heart my intentions. He sees also the desire, while people see only the action.

I know I sound philosophical today, but I totally rely on God and see Him directing, supporting, and permitting whatever occurs, be it good or not so pleasant things. My highest wisdom lies in embracing a God that is all-wise and knows what is best for me. True, He expects me to do my best to correct the wrongs which happen to me; but when I cannot correct them, that is when I am to embrace his wisdom by following His divine greatness and knowing He is there to bring victory.

The Compliments Are Great!

Sure, I'll take any and all compliments! I'm not a "Go to your head" and "Super Haughty" person. In biblical terms that phrase means "You think you're higher than God!" Oh no, that's not me! But, I'm sure having great thoughts this morning over all the compliments I've received just to name a few for this week: (i.e., cards, music, choice of restaurants, peace, quiet and contentment(s), super great meals, cheerfulness, appreciation, awesome listener, fun wife, amazingly incredible MoM, Earth Angel Grandma, tremendous birthday planner, taking time to care, great friend...)

I'm accepting the compliments with all praise and glorifying to the Lord for molding me and making me a caring person who wants the very very best for others. My prayer is that He will keep me strong and uplifted that I may #1) help others; and #2 give words of encouragement for others.

See ya in Church 10-11 a.m. Give a genuine compliment today and make someone's day!!!! Start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude! :)

This Will Blow Your Mind!

And things like this happen to us all the time. . .

For those of you who are always asking me to "blog our date night"....here goes:

My husband was stationed in Japan, consequently he enjoys japanese cuisine at special times! For his BIG day (which is today, but celebrating yesterday also)..I took him to Jinbeh last night and reserved the HIBACHI GRILL. Around the grill is seating for 8 people. At first it felt like Q&A when we sit around the table at church, but as the Chef came and cooked our meal in front of all of us, and we were waiting - the Grandma of the other family (of course, 6 entire family) was trying to awaken her 9/29 grandson who is 6 now so that he could enjoy his birthday! This will blow your mind - his name was James also. After everyone discovered it was the 2 birthdays and desert came, of course everyone sang. No one would ever believe I was not the one that spoke up and as our kids always say "Mom.....I don't believe you didn't plan the birthday song!" It is the truth!!! Actually I really had fun after that because on the complete other side of the table there were kids and a Grandma! (Oh, the Grandpa was there also). The food was scrumptuous and they want you as a couple to share...where my husband had filet mignon, I had chicken and it was a blast watching the chef do his tricks. James, the in kindergarten, and half asleep, really awakened when the fire blazed, and James, the ?? shall I say, College graduate, was awakened by all the love and excitement for enjoying his awesome birthday event.....it reminded us of how well behaved our grandkids are when dining out.

The experience was great. Actually I was amazed at the price ($27 for two)...a complete 3 course meal, including a delicious soup, salad, green tea, appetizer, and choice of awesome dishes, plus we chose sherbert ice-cream.......all included. The salad was romaine lettuce and the beautiful part was the chef did such a phenomenal job grilling each family's meal.....I pride myself being organized, but I believe he has me beat!!!!


Bottom Line: Great place to go with family and friends.....looking for romance on hubby's special day......quiet serene dining room with lovely soft music in one of the other rooms would work. No complaints on this end...the service was incredible and the main thing is we loved every single second of it and went for a romantic walk on the canal!!!! Happy birthday to a cool, super great hero, "my" James! (The other couple kept saying "our" James) :) ...he's up now and this is HIS DAY!!!!

Carol's Creative Cards 2007

Good great morning!

I'm up super early to be creative.....what am I creating?

Hubby's birthday card (maybe 2...lovey one and fun one)
Thank you card (s) (5)
Congrat baby birth card (1)
Encouragement card (3)
Get Well card (s) (I think 4)

That pretty much covers a multitude of creativity, fun, and just the special, special wording that will be from my heart. In between I may mosey to Starbuck's to get some "creative spunk" on my favorite latte!!!!!

I'm claiming II Cor. 3:18 knowing that the "Spirit of the Lord" works within me and I pray these cards will reflect His glory!

Middle of the Week Super Blessing!

For a birthday present, my hubby was given two tickets to a fabulous concert with none other than Steven Curtis Chapman. (Also Sanctus Real & Bethany Dillon were there.) What was phenomenal is that his 16 year old son plays the drums and his 17 year old son plays every guitar imaginable! Amazingly incredible! Wow! Tremendous! Steven's latest songs, which he writes, are coming out in 2/08 and they are about "Living in the Moment" ...awe, ooooh, fabulous - there is not enough space or time to describe the 3/hr. concert! I'd be posting all day! Grateful to go.....you bet! One of my husband's other gifts was a total subscription to Onstar. So on Sattelite radio in the car on the way to the Concert, we listned to the latest in any and all Southern GOSPEL music (plus I like surfing the Channels)!!! God has blessed us in more than we could ever ask or deserve and gratitude for the phenomenal gifts is the main subject at our home!! It just can't get any better!!!!

I truly hope and pray your week has been a Super Blessing like our's! Being his "lovely wife", as he calls me, I reap full benefits also! How cool is that???

Surround Yourself With Loving, Caring People

Why surround yourself with loving, caring people?
they will hold you up
lift you up instead of tear you down
they don't take up your time griping
they are glad you are doing what YOU WANT TO DO THAT MAKES YOU HAPPY
bring joy vs. critize or are extremely pushy
don't mind if you cry
or, are happy
but most of all,
people who care
and love you unconditionally
aren't jealous of you
are very grateuful for you
and always watch out for your best interest
but don't suffocate you with just wanting you all to themselves
communicate with someone who really cares

That is my passion for my family, friends, neighbors, confidantes, and I hope today all your struggles will disappear this day and that you WILL surround yourself with loving, caring people.

Be blessed this day!

This Is Why I Care........I Love Living In God's Garden

I want to share this story that a PW (Pastor's Wife) friend of mine shared with me. I hope it touches your heart like it did mine.

Blue Roses

Why do I always have to be the one that starts to do
laundry and there's no detergent? I guess it was time
for me to do my "Dollar Store" run, which included
light bulbs, paper towels, trash bags and Clorox. So
off I go.

I scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies,
and headed for the checkout counter only to be blocked
in the narrow aisle by a young man that appeared to be
about sixteen-years-old. I wasn't in a hurry, so I
patiently waited for the boy to realize that I was
there. This was when he waved his hands excitedly in
the air and declared in a loud voice, "Mommy, I'm over
here."

It was obvious now that he was mentally challenged,
and also startled as he turned and saw me standing so
close to him, waiting to squeeze by. His eyes widened
and surprise exploded on his face as I said, "Hey
Buddy, what's your name?"

"My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my mother," he
responded proudly. "Wow," I said, "that's a cool name;
I wish my name was Denny, but my name is Hal."

"Hal like Halloween?" he asked.

"Yes," I answered. "How old are you, Denny?"

"How old am I now, Mommy?" he asked his mother as she
slowly came over from the next aisle.

"You're fifteen-years-old Denny; now be good boy and
let the man pass by."

I acknowledged her and continued to talk to Denny for
several more minutes about summer, bicycles and
school. I watched his brown eyes dance with excitement
because he was the center of someone's attention. He
then abruptly turned and headed toward the toy
section.

Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked
me for taking the time to talk with her son. She told
me that most people wouldn't even look at him, much
less talk to him. I told her that it was my pleasure,
and then I said something I have no idea where it came
from, other than by the prompting of the Holy Spirit. I
told her that there are plenty of red, yellow and pink
roses in God's garden, however, "Blue Roses" are very
rare and should be appreciated for their beauty and
distinctiveness. You see, Denny is a "Blue Rose" and
if someone doesn't stop and smell that rose with their
heart and touch that rose with their kindness, then
they've missed a blessing from God.

She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her
eye she asked, "Who are you?" Without thinking I said,
"Oh, I'm probably just a daffodil or maybe even a
dandelion," but I sure love living in God's garden."

Yesterday's Blessings & A Beautiful Fall Day!

Today I'm drawing off of yesterday's blessings! The W.O.W. class was amazingly incredible! I cannot thank each and every one for coming out so early and the sacrifice you make! Fabulous Class!!! Thanks! We are definitely women of worth!

The Morning Worship was extraordinary! The new upbeat music was received real well and everyone that left made comments that they thoroughly enjoyed church!

Today seems like a day to take it easy and not dwell on anything that will cause worry, disappointment, or the whys????? Focus on what we have in common, not our differences. And, concentrate on the things which make for harmony and on the growth of one another's character. Yesterday was the first day of Fall...I'm for sure going outside to enjoy some of the leaves falling and the wisp of wind blowing them further away.

Hope Your Service Goes Well....

Those were the very encouraging words our Son left with us last night....and as we left, we both talked about how glad we are that we raised a Son who is so thoughtful, respectful, and caring toward our life's calling. What a great night's sleep after hearing that admonishment.

Yes, today is the day that we are going to "change" the order of our service, implementing many ways to get plugged into a church that has a tremendous amount of caring; a church that wants our light to shine throughout this city and surrounding towns! Where there is no pressure put on anyone to join....just attend....hear very relevant and a motivating challenge to begin Monday with an entirely different perspective and attitude on life. This is the challenge that is given to each of us in today's culture. I'm going to let my light shine in all the excitement God has given me to teach a dynamic W.O.W. (Women of Worth) class today.....I know there are many many people (family, friends, Pastors & their wife & missionaries) all over the world praying for us as we give forth the passion of applying the Holy Word...the Bible! Oh Yes, our music is the very latest in praise and worship and will bless your soul! I promise you an hour of power you won't want to miss!

See ya at 9 for W.O.W. and 10 for a Super Worship Center Service!

Just Accept Him

Sometime during a marriage, a wife will begin a small makeover project - her husband. She has the best intention in the world. A little tweak here and little fine-tuning there would make him even better than he already is. The cost is high, though. You'll end up with a husband who resists your every suggestion and who doesn't want to talk!

Unless your husband asks, and he probably won't, don't get involved with makeovers. Let him know you think he's wonderful just the way he is! I see more women being so critical, correcting, condemning or chiding. This can be so tempting because there's a store of knowledge (and opinions) so deep within us ladies. HOLD THOSE THOUGHTS! Just accept him - after all he accepts us. I thought it was so "cute" last night when I stayed inside looking and aweing over all the SALES at Cracker Barrell Store; so my husband decided to go out and sit in those rocking chairs they have on the front. (Too bad they are so expensive). Anyway, I ended up buying nothing - maybe God planned it that way. They had so many sales, I couldn't decide!!! (a-ha----yea God!)

Appreciate your husband's strengths. Send him a card....accept him for ALL the things he does for you, whether small or large. He doesn't need a makeover. If he did, he'd send for tickets to Oprah! (chuckle, chuckle). Enjoy a gorgeous Saturday. Just a quick reminder (W.O.W. Women of Worth is tomorrow - you awesome Ladies....9 a.m. - see you there!) (Refreshments served).

FDN is finally here!!!!!

This has been such an odds n' week for me. The things I had on my calendar that would happen, did not happen, and the things that happened involved a lot of opposites and many, many requests on our 24/hr. prayer line at church. Thus the Posting Title today, FDN is finally here!

Since a) I cherish mornings & b) I love breakfast served to me

We are going to Cracker Barrell for their absolutely scrumptuous breakfast! The Servers we've always gotten are phenomenal. They usually take care of weary travelers, scenic drivers, and senior citizen types very well!!! (They must truly miss their Grandparents.) :-) Of course mosying around in the gift shop for chickens on sale makes for a great topping! They must train each and every staff person to be exceptionally "nice" because it's always a great feeling when we leave to have such great conversation re: CS-customer service!

It's not fair to the new readers of my blog - so I'll say what FDN stands for: FRIDAY NIGHT DATE NIGHT. Yea!!!

See ya in Church in 48 hours! Have yourself a super FDN!! I know I will!

Beautiful Fall Never Changing Colors

Isn't it funny that when we were young, we couldn't wait to grow up, and when we are old, we reminisce on earlier years? Yet, whatever stage of life we find ourselves in at the moment, I know that God wants us to enjoy and embrace each "Season" as it comes our way. Fall....beautiful....leaves falling..so many different colors.

I'm sure there will be a lot of change as we go into the busy Holiday Season. The good news during the emotional transitions and changes? God gives us what we need for each Season of our lives. For our husband, kids and grandkids He will provide instruction, friendships and a myriad of other transitions. For me, He will provide new opportunities for service and growth! And to all of us, He gives Himself.....our ONE Constant in a changing world. I have been quoting Hebrews 13:8 at least fifty times this week: "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever!"

As we all watch the leaves change colors this Fall, may it remind all of us to enjoy a new Season of life and to trust our unchanging God! I'm going to take a dose of Psalm 37:1-7 for this!! CCT: Carol's Caring Thoughts: vs. 5: "Commit thy way unto the Lord."

3rd Wednesday

This will be short, sweet and to the point. :)
Tonight is 3rd Wednesday (the only Wednesday night Service we have) at Church:
7-8p.m. "Communication in Marriage" (& if you are Single..."Communication in General") is the subject since my husband is continuing with "THE MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT SERIES." (Communion will be served at the end of the Service). We both have been up very early to go to the Church and pray for a good turnout. We covet your prayers as well.

Being Thankful And Kind

I truly believe being thankful is a super huge contributor to happiness. The act of doing something nice for a stranger or friend (& even a family member) will make for super feelings about oneself. Every day I jot down three things I am thankful for. As blogged once about "Yellow Sticky Notes" and journaling my prayers, I also have napkins, torn paper or anything I find to write on to write the three things. It helps me remember the sun is always shining and to count my blessings!

Lately I've realized that it is a necessary essential awesome task to count our blessings instead of drudges! And what's beautiful is that when we begin counting, the list becomes more than three! I don't mind sharing three of my things I am grateful for that I wrote down today: 1) Thanking God for His faithfulness to me day by day and for helping all of us to become all that He desires us to be! God's tremendous grace (just when I need it); ....and boy do I need it! 2) So Thankful that I place my family, my spouse, children, grandchildren, families that live away into His care, knowing that He is able to keep that which I command to Him this day! 3) For women who call for help in overcoming emotional pitfalls. Give me words of wisdom, words of grace, that I might encourage them and build them up, dear Lord.

I know I elaborated on my Thankfulness list. There is nothing like being Thankful and Kind....As I write I am already surrendering my willful lack of ever being unkind and unthankful and focusing on how can I make a difference in showing how much God's grace and mercy causes me to care and get rid of any "walls" or "rude thoughts" that cloud my desire to enjoy counting my blessings! (& please do not purposely ruin someone's day....practice being kind.) I want to Reach Out to comfort and turn pain into joy........that is truly being KIND! I'm claiming Matt. 11:28..."Come unto me...our kind gracious Lord says...."

Piddling?

That's an Oklahoma term my Mamma used when I didn't mind (Now the word is disobeyed)! She would say "Are you piddling Carol Ann?" And, of course, the answer was always the truth, "Yep!" And, of course, when telling the truth, no "whippin'" but a strong command to get done what she told me to do in the first place!

I'm piddling because last night I fell asleep in the Emmy Awards and as usual when I get the full potential of my sleep I need, I'm up and at 'em! Some piddling I have done is moving the telephone? Why? Because I don't like cords bulging out and with the laptop, a lighted chicken, lamp cord, telephone cords; piddling remedied that problem - now I only have one cord....neat, clean looking, perfecto!!!!!

Another piddling is since it's fall, it's time to put out the fall chickens and rearrange the summer chickens. Our own secret "piddle" that gets our mind off the many, many things we really need to get done and are on our TO BE DONE list, but procastranate to the max at doing them. And I can grant you, my husband will get up and his famous words are "Oh, I like the way you changed that...that looks great!!!!" A place for everything and everything in it's place! Yep, that's my motto!!!! I may decide to change it tomorrow, but for the time being, it looks neat and our home is ready for the next Season (actually, the next time I decide to piddle.) :) What's even better about this picture is my husband will see immediately where the phone is moved! I think he has radar vision!!!! (In his sleep!!!) A-ha!!! Have a super exciting Monday! Above all else, have fun!

Beginning Each Day With A Heart Full of Thanks!

I come before our precious Lord rejoicing, for this is the day which He has made and I will be very thankful! I think of so many who cannot wake up and say that. Perhaps depression, or a down gloomy feeling, or even a home where there is hurt, or a wounded spirit. I'm up early thinking about how do I begin each day? The fact that our kids are grown and away; how are they? what are they doing? are they healthy? our grandkids....mostly what are they thinking? they have such a great way of expressing their day's events! The love flows out over the phone from all (or at least I can definitely feel it) when I talk to ANY of them.

As regarding today's events....oh yes, they will be eventful, and servitude. We're beginning a new "Opening Worship" and I'm excited as the words of wisdom, words of grace, that we might encourage each person present. We're still in our "F-ully R-ely O-n G-od" (Frog Month) so I cannot wait to see exactly HOW we have all done it?????? His power will give us victory and to Him be the glory throughout all generations, forever and ever!

So, how do I begin each Day? I've pondered that question so deeply. I begin with a marvelous heart of gratitude and appreciation for LIFE; a husband who is living, breathing, healthy, continuing to expound the Word, and give of himself with his many talents; thanking God for giving birth to two amazingly incredible, caring kids! As I look around the house with memories of them......I can only write...Great is the peace and undisturbed composure of my children, because you, God, wcontend with that which contends with my chidren, and You give them safety and ease them. My children honor, esteem, and value as precious their parents; for this is the first commandment with the promise that all may be well with my children and that they may live long. It is my sincere prayer that they will be increased in wisdom and in favor as I know they have many dreams to fulfill and goals to accomplish. .......truly a Mamma's (& Mom's) heart.

Keep a prayer of thanks today and see what happens.

I especially thank You Lord for the co-laborers with whom I will be interacting today. Give me words of wisdom, words of grace, that I might encouragement them and build them up. I continue to thank You for the many blessings that You have poured upon us all. See ya in Church! Where life will be celebrated - believe you me! (P.S. Blog is posting super early...the clock on the wall says 6:51 a.m.) :)

Does Prayer Work?

Most definitely prayer works! Just close your eyes and open your heart and feel your worries and cares depart. As you feel God holds you secure in HIS love, give Him endless problems that cannot be solved; then He will "take over" and finish the rest. We have to GIVE IT TO HIM. I know when I'm tired, discouraged and blue, the door that is always OPEN is what I call "The House of Prayer." I find God always waiting to meet ME there. We opened our church specifically for 9/11 day for people to come in and pray. It was great to see people coming by JUST TO PRAY for the safety of America.

Prayer .... oh yes....any time, any where!! No farther away than the quiet spot - to kneel and pray is always my posture; I know God is there and I place myself in His loving care. He hears every single prayer and answers each one. It might be "wait" or "why not now?" but it is His will that we call upon Him for the smallest and the largest request. The burdens that seemed too heavy to bear are lifted away. Ending the prayer with praise and Gratitude for a God who loves us unconditionally, and is healing whatever ache and pain we go through....to put it simple: My prayers say "Hey God....and Yea God!!!" Prayers avail much. I John 5:14,14 - "And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He heareth us; and if we know that He hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions (prayer) that we desired of Him."

Pray for our Q&A at church tomorrow.....after the a.m. Service. See ya there!

Music & Today's (Maybe) Activities

.....Random Friday thoughts........ music....this would take up kazillion megabytes to write about.....Yesterday I went to the church and listened to a Michael W. Smith & Rebeckah S. praise CDs! If that doesn't move your enthusiasm and soul, nothing will! I found myself really enjoying every single word and the tremendous feeling of knowing we serve a great God who is always there to take care of every single difficulty, adversity, struggle, happenstance, or whatever comes our way.....this music lifted my spirits higher and higher toward God. Then I tried to practice some of the songs on the keyboard.....that was "trying" but with some practice I should be able to play one of the songs. For this I covet your prayers......music, music, music...the answer I definitely believe. My soul has been blessed!

Someone this week asked me "Carol why don't you tell your day's activities on Blog?" Actually I do not know exactly what the day may hold; I have a friend who says "Monday...I..... Tuesday......I Wednesday.....I Hey I'm not like that...I live an exciting life, plotting along with the love of the Lord and hopefully help someone who's life is a train wreck so to speak. If not by the grace of God, there go I.....so says the Bible......if I can help, great (Plan A)....if I cannot, I will go with Plan B. I know today a MUST is to get busy and make our daughter-in-law's b-day card which I've been putting off because she is the EXPERT card maker (more like brilliant) so I'll take some time today to make a card that she will enjoy......after that..........yep you guessed it....Friday night date night....

Back to music.........Always remember to get music in your soul...so phenomenal! :)

Purpose

Knowing purpose gives our life meaning, simplicity, focus and motivation. It provides a lot of happiness and joy! Yesterday I had the privilege of showing a lady God's purpose and how well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life, fear of death, fear of judgment is one not yet fully formed in love. God clears the record with His love and forgiveness. (Psalm 32:1) He says He has good plans for us, not plans to hurt us. It always to give us hope and a good future. (Jeremiah 29:11). I always rely on the Bible for purpose, hopes, desires, goals, thoughts, so that my vision is not blurred but definitely keeping me focused. I feel like I can open it to ANY verse and find purpose.

FROG Wednesday

I hope your Wednesday is joyous, full of fun, and that you'll have a FROG Day! I'm blogging "short" today as mine has already been filled with fun. ....Since it's a bit nippy outside, I decided to have an early morning bubble bath; I dare you to try it, you'll love it! The warm bath energized me. (Stepping out of the tub, though, reminded me that our always knowing God, who is always ever present is the TRUE essence of energy!) Have a joyous FROG (F-ully R-ely O-n G-od)Wednesday! Job 1:21

9/9/07 & 9/11/01

After having an active Sunday (9th) at church, I was all relaxed getting myself almost ready for a great night's sleep and my husband had answered the phone and brought the phone were I was and said "Someone really cool wants to speak to you." Then comes this awesome, sweet, precious, cool voice that said "Happy Grandparents Day Grandma." Naturally it was our adorable Granddaughter! And I said "How thoughtful for you to remember--thank you!" And we chatted for a few minutes and she definitely had her mind focused on really wishing me to have a wonderful Grandparents Day. (Actually I didn't hear very much mention of it on the media so I thanked her wholeheartedly for remembering!) Then she put our Grandson on the phone. Now,you can't beat that with a stick! He sounded so grown up and interested in what I had been doing!! Their "cool" parents have taught them fabulous phone manners - oh, I hugged them right over that phone for the joy they bought into my life - and yes, I did sleep very well! My husband and I are definitely blessed to have the BEST grandkids in the world! Did you hear from your's? I hope so.

Now on the 9/11/01 what was I doing? I was teaching a Ladies Bible Study at a Well-Known Christian Bookstore. They had invited me to hold a 6-week class. Of course, we all stopped, stunned, and glued ourselves in front of the televisions they had in the store. Devistated isn't the word for it....Pure sickening....Today I will still be in prayer for the families and all involved.

God bless and protect us all!

Liquid Sunshine

It's been pouring down rain here for the last hour and a half. I call it "Liquid Sunshine." We have two dogs. One is mortified of thunder, the other mortified of rain. I've been up super early giving them some special stroking and hugs to help them settle down. A-ha - such peace when the thunder and rain stops to begin a day filled with tons of stuff to get caught up on (i.e. thank you & encouraging cards, VFU (Visitor Follow Up from Church yesterday), lots of personal stuff (post office, errands, etc.)

The W.O.W. Women of Worth Class was PHENOMENAL yesterday...every lady got a chance to share the beautiful part of being a female. A great crowd and every lady said they cannot wait until our next meeting (every other week); what a lovely way to start the week with such great memories! One of the highest of human duties is the duty of encouragement......It is easy to pour cold water on enthusiasm; it is easy to discourage others. The world is full of discouragers. We have a Christian duty to encourage one another. Many a time a word of praise or thanks or appreciation or cheer has kept a woman (& man) on his/her feet. Ps. 139:13-14 and Romans 12 passages on "Holy Living" was our study. All eyes were filled with tears when some ladies gave recent accounts of victorious overcomings and the need to change "old" habits. We had so much refreshments and a super time of what I call "safe place to land" and the outpouring of love that every lady gave to me as they prayed for me in gratitude for the class will not be forgotten for a long time. Next meeting, September 23, 9 a.m. Fellowship Hall...my calendar is definitely marked to be there and I hope your's is also. ENJOY YOUR WEEK and liquid sunshine (beautiful rain) as you begin this day!

Unforgiveness

Many people ruin their health and their lives by taking the poison of bitterness and unforgiveness (topped with resentment). Matt. 18:23-35 tells us that if we do not forive people, we get turned over to the torturers. It's torture to have hateful thoughts toward another person rolling around inside one's head.

My question is who are you helping most when you forgive the person who hurt you? Actually, you're helping yourself more than the other person. I always looked at forgiving people who hurt me as being really hard. I thought it seemed so unfair for them to receive forgiveness when I had gotten hurt. But I'm also helping the other person by releasing them so God can do what only He can do. If I'm in the way - trying to get revenge or take care of the situation myself instead of trusting and obeying God - He has no obligation to deal with that person. However, God will deal with those who hurt us if we'll put them in His hands through forgiveness.

The Word tells us to pray for your enemies and those who abuse and misuse you. Pray for their happiness and welfare (Luke 6:27,28) As we pray, God can give them revelation that will bring them out of deception. They may not even be aware they hurt you, or maybe they're aware but are so self-centered that they don't care. Either way, they need revelation. ...and after forgiveness, BLESS them (Rom. 12:14) means to speak well of......................depend on God to help...the benefits for forgiving far outweigh because when satan gets a foothold, next he'll get a stronghold. Be quick to forgive.

I believe there's a need to forgive a situtation or an object - the post office, bank, a certain company that may have cheated you, a car that always gives you trouble, etc. Get rid of all poison that comes from bitterness, resentment and unforgiveness. Proverbs 4:23 - "Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance...for out of it flow the springs of life. " Forgive God if you are angry with Him, because life didn't turn out the way you thought it should. God is always just.

I'm determining to forgive and I covet your prayers in this area. My husband is beginning a great chapter in I Peter today and yesterday I was out finding prospects who were unchurched to come and worship and be a part of the new series. (Of course, I wanted them to know about W.O.W. (Women of Worth) which begins at 9 a.m. today............Hey Ladies.....see you there!!!! Can't wait!!! ...I'm taking some good ole' banana bread made by yours truly...

The B-i-b-l-e

Remember when you were a kid singing "The B-i-b-l-e....yes that's the book for me?" And sang it with all the joy mustered up inside which was "loud joy?" I proclaim it's still the BOOK for me....yesterday I mosied by Barnes & Noble and glanced over the zillion of books. That seems to be the "in" thing these day...author a book. Recently I read a comment on a blog that said basically don't even think about authoring a book if you're not writing on something that catches the eye, heart, and brain!!! I'm not really a controversial person and what I mean by that is starting a ruckus over something that my Mamma used to say constantly ....doesn't amount to heal of beans!!!

Our Son got me a Bible(exactly what I've ever wanted) almost nineteen years ago; I still carry it, read it daily, and wouldn't get rid of it for the world! I can remember one year a College student needed to borrow my Bible and she never returned it! I hope she is still reading it and it is her #1 book. I am at this time "authoring a book" but I can guarantee anyone who will look up anything they want to know, it's in the Bible! And I say that with no apology, with all the gusto in my being, and unequivably the TRUTH!

Hiya Ladies............it's almost 24 hours exact to our W.O.W. (Women of Worth) class in the Fellowship Hall at 9 a.m. This one is a barn stormer....you will not want to miss it, I promise! We have a tremendous group coming and the 45-minutes passes by quickly, so see grab your coffee or tea and as we use to call it Oklahoma, COME ON OUT!!!!

Fridge Magnets

What's on your Fridge with magnets holding them up?

On mine....#1 and most important...artwork by grandkids (I should say masterpieces)
pics of immediate family...a pic of our 4 taken just before first born left to go to College. There's a really cool pic of my husband and our daughter! Of course pics of grandkids at Chuck E.'s place....."Honey-Do List" (almost empty :) ....Emergency Telephone Numbers.....At least 22 chicken magnets..my favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 33:3, "I love my Grandma/or I love my Grandpa" frames with the newborn pic of each Grandchild. I Cor. 13--the LOVE chapter written out; more pictures of our kids (current ones) a Magnetic board with prayer requests and my goal to bring 9 to church; A neat sign that says "A Teacher affects eternity; she can never know where her influence stops." Of course there are great tips re: healthy things to eat for your eyes, heart, and other vital organs. Believe it or not, it all looks very neat and homey and reminders that in this home is a lot of love, missing the ones who are not here (of course they are now adults and have a home of their own) and a hearty welcome to enjoy your visit!!!

And those are my caring thoughts...........have a happy Friday!

Thursday already???....some musings.....

My own Blog won't let me COMMENT...hello!! Here's the comment, Connie to your's.
Wow Connie, Thanks for your valuable comment. I remember it like it was yesterday. You have always been a blessing and a great prayer "buddy." You've sown many a great seeds!!! Blessings to you THIS DAY!

I'll find out from Google why???

Is it Thursday already???? What a fast week!

Someone said "Idleness is the devil's workshop." There's never a dull moment in my life. My husband and I usually eat the evening meal about 5-ish p.m. At 3-ish I decided I wanted some wonton soup. I figured well, the drive-through Associate will know I ordered wonton soup. I sat down to eat it in a cozy corner, took the lid off and guess what? It was a cup full of nothing but gravy. Oh, well, the craving I had for wontons went to someone else. But I did find out if you don't like making gravy, go to a restaurant (even KFC) and they'll GIVE you a cup of gravy of your choice. It's a dollar if they don't give it. Mine was a dollar. One of my great cooking points (from my husband) is "making gravy better than his Mom's." So I won't be ordering gravy from a drive-though restaurant. In fact, just the mere mention of gravy, my husband requested mashed potatoes and my gravy with the baked chicken that was cooking. Did I use the drive-through gravy??? Heavens no. Did I take it back and get wonton soup??? No, I just forgot the negative experience and went on enjoying a lovely dinner with my husband's ravin about my gravy. But, we did have a chuckle at the reason why she gave me gravy???? Speaker, bad day, who knows????? I just know that will not be the place I frequent for wonton soup. What about you? What "crazy" thing have you had happen lately?

Enjoy your Thursday....Friday's almost here! And then Sunday is closer!!!

....Blessings Came Calling On My Phone & Knocking On My Door

Monday there was a call left on our answering machine at home from one of the fun-loving ladies at our Church who wanted to have a "Carol Day." If she were to explain where she got that...I would have to give myself a pat on the back. Come on...it's not being arrogant to BRAG on oneself!!! Several years ago my husband and I helped out a Pastor and his wife in a small church and I met her there. She reminded me I had her special day and she wanted to return the favor. She asked me where would I love to go for lunch and have a "Carol Day?" Los Lupes restaurant, of course! We really had a great time! Memories....she is a very busy lady with a son whose a High School Senior + all the other kazillion things like working out, remodeling her home, has a heart for genuinely caring for others on her job and a phenomenal gift of mercy! I kept wanting to make the lunch about HER for all the things she does and she kept wanting to make the lunch about me. My spirits were really uplifted and the topper was she brought by a birthday gift last night (called first, of course, and since we were out with appointments) she left it on the porch. It was a singing birthday card that lasts until my next year birthday!!!

The song says "Everyone who knows you thinks you're really great, and yet you just get better every year - this is your day ...... This is your year!" "Happy b-day - Carol Day" I don't know where she found it, but with the card and the Starbuck's gift card inside I'm good to go for sure until next year!!!! Isn't it nice to know there are others who care so much to follow through with blessings upon blessings and F-ully R-ely O-n G-od to give them the time to others????? (That's our FROG theme at Church). She did all of this even in the busy-ness of life! Wow!

By the way, try a sophapilla with margerine and honey on it....yummy I begin this day feeling very grateful for this surprising event!!! When I returned home my husband surprised me with a beautiful bouquet of purple daisies. I hope your surprises and blessings are many today. Blessings surely came calling on my phone and knocking on my door!

Fall

Why do I always think summer is over the day after Labor Day? I guess because it feels like, especially since it rained yesterday and seemed a bit "coolish" to me. Spring is my favorite time of the year, but Fall is exciting because of the bands at Football games and all the fans yelling to beat the band. No pun intended!

I'm sending a global message to all to enjoy what FALL has to offer; a great season to enjoy Plays, Football Games, Concerts, and last but not least, (and most important) Church. My husband is teaching a series on I Peter which really has the important of everyday living/submission to authority; respect for Business Owners, respect for leaders, etc. Next week is submissiveness at home. Here's my invitation for you to attend at 10-11 a.m. where there is no pressure; just teaching from the Bible. Have a great Tuesday and I hope your Labor Day was extra special!

It's Official!!

To those of you that know me, and think I never take time to "relax" you're going to love this announcement - I'm officially taking the day off! We've been invited to the Lake and I've been asked to take my "always requested" potato salad! So, I slept in today (that's another surprise to everyone!) and have the potatos and eggs boiling and I'm going to just sit on the "dock" and stare at the beautiful lake. That is so relaxing for me. I'll be praying that your day will have all the the very things you want to do and hopefully the day will be long and relaxing for you. Anyhoo-maybe a "catch-up" day! Happy Labor Day!

Hope

I hope everyone we've invited to enjoy our "1st Annual Labor Day Blast" will come. Just our way of sharing lunch (cook-out) with others who labor so hard and a way of enjoying fellowship, friendship, and fun! I'm running a tad bit late but hope your Labor Day will be awesome!

Enjoy Life

Today is a beautiful day to enjoy life. Get the things done you've always put off...like give the dog a bath....September 1st and on to look forward to...can't wait to make a card for our son and daughter in law's Anniversary....my daughter-in-law's birthday and hubby's birthday are both in September....(can't wait to make a card for her since she is a genuis at card making)...and then the leaves falling as fall begins...fall is my very favorite time of the year! What's your favorite time of the year? Remember tomorrow 10 a.m. (See Friday's blog)..And most of all, enjoy everything you do today, tomorrow and Monday to have a great Labor Day Weekend! I know I am!! :=)