tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60569822012-02-16T18:51:12.793-05:00JournalMy online journal that will reflect my thoughts and creativity.Dnoreply@blogger.comBlogger3171100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-85887635249241110672008-09-23T12:59:00.002-04:002008-09-23T13:07:55.421-04:00Well, it has certainly been a while since I've written here. I have honestly become so 'preoccupied' with FACEBOOK that I have allowed that to become my journal....not that I write much there! At any rate, alot of things have pretty much been the same over the last few weeks. I suppose that the big event that I have going on right now is waiting to hear from Dillards. I was called last week toDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-23542955492669796372008-08-01T17:11:00.002-04:002008-08-01T17:14:04.825-04:00MATTHEW 16-18Jesus uses unlikely means to provideHard times are inevitable but we shouldn't make it worseDon't treat 'child-like belivers' (new Christians) arrogantly.If a fellow believer hurts - go and tell him. If he listens then I have a friend. If he doesn't listen, take one or two more as a witness - then if he won't listen start over.If we have been forgiven, we should show mercy and Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-10358079905429933212008-08-01T17:08:00.002-04:002008-08-01T17:11:33.783-04:00MATTHEW 13-15Like Peter, if we keep our eyes on Jesus we can do the impossibleDo I make a big who saying theright things - but the heart isn't in it?Do I act like I am worshipping but don't mean it?Do I just use God as a cover for teaching what suits my fancy?Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-19624248563012672372008-08-01T17:04:00.002-04:002008-08-01T17:08:47.824-04:00MATTHEW 10-12Great irony - Proclaiming so much love - Experiencing so much hateDon't be bluffed into silence by threats from bullies. There's nothing they can do to my soul - my core beingSave my fear for God who holds my entire life - body and soul in HIS handsAm I tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Go to Jesus - Get away with Him. He will show how to take a real rest. Walk with Him Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-62505105922604797332008-08-01T17:02:00.002-04:002008-08-01T17:04:30.957-04:00MATTHEW 7-9The way to life - to God is vigourous and requires total attentionWho needs a doctor? The healthy or the sick? I'm after mercy not religion I should be about inviting outsiders not to codle insiders Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-73475089163409515812008-08-01T16:56:00.002-04:002008-08-01T17:02:54.034-04:00From the challenge to read 3 chapters nightly:Matthew 1-3Following instruction led them to where they would find JesusFollowing instruction led to safety and protectionMatthew 4-6Jesus faced temptation and commanded the tempter to leaveListening to Jesus produces real resultsWe're blessed at the end of our ropeWith less of me there is more of GodI am blessed when I am content with who I am am - Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-87387021859984893692008-07-28T15:02:00.002-04:002008-07-28T15:08:10.173-04:00I listenedI respondedI waitFollowing Jesus will lead me to find JesusFollowing instructions will lead to safety and protectionListening to Jesus produces real resultsI am blessed at the end of my rope with less of me and more of GodGive my entire attention to what God is doing NOW. Don't get worked up about tomorrowGod will help me deal with that when the time comes.Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-64795397142298731402008-07-27T22:05:00.002-04:002008-07-27T22:11:16.172-04:00How do I answer the voice I hear. I have heard over and over, today especially, about FORGIVENESS. The words have come from two different pastors and directly addressing 'forgiveness' . Each in their own way implied that 'God may be telling you the name of someone that you need to forgive'....But each time as the name came to me, I tried to justify why I deserved to "NOT" forgive. I am Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-8192606322353365842008-07-23T08:20:00.003-04:002008-07-23T08:24:39.883-04:00It's Wednesday and Tom is recouperating from having had surgery on a hernia on Monday. He is in pretty intense pain right now. This is his first experience with surgery of any kind, anthesia etc. So the entire event has been interesting. The surgery was scheduled in July because we don't have Adult Choir rehearsals during the month so he doesn't have to feel pressure to be at church. The Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-26797451299126806472008-07-18T10:06:00.002-04:002008-07-18T10:18:37.450-04:00Its Friday, again...the end of another week. Mid July! Where has the year gone?? Just a few things that have happened this week.Monday has come and gone and my memory has fadedTuesday and Thursday were Therapy days and my PT thinks I am doing greatTom also had an appt with a surgeon about removal of an umbilical hernia. That will take place on Monday AM.Wednesday was church and there was an Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-20701557071689762782008-07-12T08:46:00.000-04:002008-07-12T08:53:07.830-04:00it has been an interesting 24 hrs. we left hartwell on fri. morn and drove to Gville to get Laura loaded up out of her apt. I pretty much was the door and dog keeper! She hired a couple of Mexican guys to help wit the big stuff and we got it all done by abt 2PM. we dropped the rodeo and trailor off at her dads then headed to Zaxbys for lunch. after lunch we had an amazing tour of the new Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-46051192203393214752008-07-07T09:31:00.000-04:002008-07-07T09:41:53.107-04:00This was a good weekend. We celebrated the 4th just hanging out during the day. Then that night we went to a BIG party at a friend from church. There were probably 700 people around the lake and by the time fireworks began another Hundred or more boats. Yes- BOATS in the cove watching. It was amazing!Now I am at the coffee shop and will begin to read but needed to do this first. As I write I Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-91708803944131340982008-07-03T12:24:00.005-04:002008-07-03T12:43:18.770-04:00 O God help us as we feel called to defend our place of service.How long will we feel a war is at hand?Keep us reminded that our conflicts are not of flesh and blood, but a spiritual conflict.Keep us focused on what we were called to do- the service, duty and responsibility.Remind us that when we enlisted we just wanted to serve. We didn't necessarily want a desk job nor did we want to be Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-47108983803370847172008-07-02T09:29:00.000-04:002008-07-02T09:30:26.392-04:00Do as God commands.Do exactly what God says.This was the word of the Lord to Moses. He followed and God led him exactly where he needed to go. Do I require a ring of fire at night to follow God or cam I just trust Him because I believe who he is in my life?Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-11082232696399508912008-06-30T09:48:00.002-04:002008-06-30T09:52:08.759-04:00This past week was one of the most stressful weeks we have encountered....but without question one of the most fulfilling! Summer Music Camp was absolutely amazing. Christy Dodd was fantastic in handling the children, keeping them under control and just the overall EVERYTHING. Last nights program came off without a hitch!! The drama kids did their parts tremendously the singers could have ALLDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-71333275296650841132008-06-23T21:31:00.002-04:002008-06-23T21:35:21.573-04:00Summer Music Camp was amazing today!! I have never worked with music and/or drama where drama kids had lines completely memorized when they walked in the door!! They were incredible. Their director is sooooooooooo good and she knows how to handle the kids. They had four songs learned today - NO MUSIC and choreography as well. They ALL were fantastic. I have really been sweating this week - Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-28144216510818564912008-06-22T22:32:00.001-04:002008-06-22T22:32:53.612-04:00Finally, once again, I am writing on here. I have had a BUSY last few weeks. I had Ridgecrest Music Week, then had Vacation Bible School. Last week was a week off, but I spent that week trying to clear my mind from VBS music to prepare for Summer Music Camp Music. I think it has finally worked....Instead of waking up in the night to "A-awiki, B-awiki" I am hearing a"Joseph" which is GREAT. I am Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-71744362780526749572008-06-14T07:42:00.001-04:002008-06-14T07:42:46.183-04:00The children came, it was worth the while To see a face with a precious smile We got up early, it was not our style But did I say it was all worthwhile We did our best to pass the test But now we're ready for a little rest We'll put the bad in a circular file But did I say it was all worthwhile The time next year will be here soon Oh yes my favorite month is June Gods word was taught Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-85254755695438214812008-06-08T22:09:00.002-04:002008-06-08T22:12:30.998-04:00Tonite was amazing at NewSpring. They began a new series along with about 1400 other churches. www.oneprayer.com Perry was apparently the first to begin the series. It was great and I was Sooo challenged to write. Sooooooooooo dear blogger friends - keep your eyes open for some words of God through my pen.. YEAH GOD!Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-37462205132667043532008-06-05T18:20:00.000-04:002008-06-05T18:30:42.967-04:00A new songAn old songAcousticElectronicScreensBooksEyes closedHands raisedHands together in applauseHands together in prayerSome contemporarySome traditionalAll are acts of worshipExpressions of faithForm or fashion is not the pointSimply to offer, give conveybefore a Holy God.Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-30885496535378773552008-06-03T20:07:00.000-04:002008-06-03T20:22:18.033-04:00As I sit here at Ridgecrest listening to music I am amazed at the words of this man singing. He said never have I gone before God saying I am dry or numb that He hasn't sent the rain...So as he sings for the Holy rain to fall I pray thay you would replenish my dried up pen and that thunder and lightening would storm over me. Let me feel the inspiration to return to a place of worship with you Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-89110040456550419052008-05-26T13:49:00.000-04:002008-05-26T13:56:57.254-04:00Sometimes I try to do what's rightyet still I seem to lose the fight.You call me out for another chance now let me learn to sing and dance.To be near you I know is bestto see you more and see me less.you honored David as a sonkeep me close as an annointed one.Now I want to love and praiseall throughout my remaining days.Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-31795403184953506212008-05-25T23:48:00.000-04:002008-05-25T23:52:54.726-04:00WOW - can you tell I was doing that last entry from my cell phone??? Looks like I either couldn't find the keys or it was 'drunk text'! - Lets go for the 'cant find the keys' option! :-)Today was a good day at First baptist - then to NewSpring tonite.. The guy speaking at NewSpring was YOUNG - but did a good job about what happens when you get caught with "butt crack" :-) - Basically - obey whatDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-81471939862234962112008-05-24T10:43:00.000-04:002008-05-24T10:54:27.271-04:00I am hoping that this works. I wrote yesterday only to discoer it didn't work. This has been a good week - several therapy sessions which have been painful! I also went with Tom on Thurs to a S C Singing Churchmen Concert. It was a tribute to Jim Gill who had directe for 30 Yrs. Last nite we went to a friends house for dinner. They are both pharmacists and have a beautiful hm. There were 2 Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-68823179232186284572008-05-19T09:10:00.000-04:002008-05-19T10:00:44.392-04:00based on Psalm 129- Who is THEY? THEY are attacking me, Oppressing mel but they have not and will not gain victory over me! 0thers have used me as the source if their talk and criticism - but they have let Gods righteousness be seen. I have been freed.Let the ones who speak against me feel shame and not try to be fake to me.Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-70199562691123702592008-05-18T17:29:00.000-04:002008-05-18T17:35:05.695-04:00what's the difference between blogging and twittering? I catch myself just piddling on my blog so that I can say I am writing something.Dnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-16059588109934305212008-05-14T09:35:00.000-04:002008-05-14T09:42:46.142-04:00Father God I lift up a prayer to you in the name of Jesus for Chase. You know his need for a better job and I pray that his interview is positive and that if it is in your will that you would open the door for him to get the job.Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-11254885784727662762008-05-13T22:41:00.002-04:002008-05-13T22:46:50.900-04:00Everyone has probably already seen this - but I watched it just now for the first time - It is Louie Giglio's "laminen"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e4zgJXPpI4This was pretty amazing. Maybe next time I won't be so far behind.Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-24726294957103536632008-05-13T10:17:00.000-04:002008-05-13T10:33:39.187-04:00I am testing this blog out from my daily hang out. I come to a coffee shop and read, have my quiet time and enjoy my coffee too. I am doing this on my cell phne too.Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-13662315056370968602008-05-10T14:26:00.002-04:002008-05-10T14:28:44.754-04:00Wow- I just came in from the party at the Lake shelter for our friends graduation. Little did I know that the people who own the house also had 2 houseboats there - They also have their 'regular' house they live in that has a pool house as well as a lake house. Whew - These people are quietly well to do!! The party was great - lots of fun, food and fellowship.Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-81644941209500907132008-05-10T09:56:00.002-04:002008-05-10T10:00:14.338-04:00Friday was a nice day - Relaxing at the Coffee Shop always starts my day off good. Tom is also off on Fridays, so we enjoy the morning there together. Our usual to go to the grocery held to be the same old same old - probably boring to anyone else. The highlight was the amazing Pizza that Tom fixed. We usually have it on Saturday nites, but tonite we are going to Anderson to meet up with our Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-50028191122130385812008-05-08T22:49:00.002-04:002008-05-08T22:57:08.777-04:00Today was an adventurous day~Maybe I should back up to yesterday and my trip to the Ortho Dr. THANKFULLY, he told me I could take off my immobilizer that I have had to wear for over 8 weeks. The only problem is that I still have virtually NO range of motion in my left carm. The Dr. told me that I would probably never be able to raise my arm to a full extension but if I could ultimately arrive Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-15459419183984978362008-05-06T22:02:00.002-04:002008-05-06T22:04:51.325-04:00I just realized that last posting had skipped something - it should have said to put the shoes on before running over others. Then I had said that Marty had told me to be careful before being to transparent but that it was good venting - maybe the post makes some sense.Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-62682057053425002682008-05-06T21:54:00.002-04:002008-05-06T22:01:26.522-04:00Today was a day that I didn't really understand...Sometimes I think people should put others shoes on their own feet bed venting, but it still takes alot for me to do. Basically I will say that something happened that was not meant to become an issue, but became an issue. I think that what I did was taken the wrong way and now I just have to trust that God will work it out. We led a music Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-49496455535332165442008-05-05T08:53:00.001-04:002008-05-05T23:05:41.484-04:00I can't believe that after TWO Years, I have finally returned to this blog site. My writer friend, Marty Gordon found me on Facebook and it was meant to be. I have participated in many of Marty's classes in the past and he has always amazed me at his journaling and blogging. I told him that he needed to motivate me to write, and he has done so.There has been so much that has happened over the Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1138584838853033462006-01-29T20:27:00.000-05:002006-01-29T20:33:58.863-05:00Today is an exciting day in our life. Our church where we've been serving 'gratis' has voted today to begin to compensate our work. We are so thankful and blessed. This decision for them to do this answers our prayer for 'clarity', because now we can turndown the other 'part-time' churches that have been contacting us. We still have some full-time churches that are considering us and we pray Dnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1136771136899552362006-01-08T20:25:00.000-05:002006-01-08T20:45:36.963-05:00As usual, I've been out of the writing loop. But I feel like I need to write and tell a little about whats going on in our lives. Tom and I enjoyed a great Christmas Season. We were blessed to get to go on a Cruise just before Christmas for our 25th wedding anniversary God is good--He has managed to keep us together for a LONG TIME and we have gone through so much, but love each other more than Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1133138222101725692005-11-27T19:19:00.000-05:002005-11-27T21:31:53.986-05:00I haven't blogged in a while--but in light of the Worship experience I had this morning...I have to write about it. I have been in many baptismal services in the past, but today was the most amazing I've ever had. Today was a sermon in the series of "WORSHIP WORDS"--today was Hallelujah! and that is exactly what the congregation did today when Raymond was presented for Baptism. Raymond was a new Dnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1131930650968493372005-11-13T20:00:00.000-05:002005-11-13T20:10:54.026-05:00I'm ashamed to even get on here to write. But after finally finding my blog site and realizing how long its been since I've written, I felt I owed it to myself. In the course of the MONTH that has passed I have been with my daughter to get her wedding dress, had my 46th birthday, gone a mini cruise to the Carribean and continued to pray and seek God for a church for Tom. Today was a difficult dayDnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1128913152808585002005-10-09T22:38:00.000-04:002005-10-09T22:59:12.823-04:00I am sooooooooooo thankful for my daughter...and her gift with animals. Friday nite was a terrible night yet one to remember. We were sitting in our bedroom with the dogs at the foot of the bed. Suddenly my husband got up and went to the dog saying frantically "Something's wrong with the dog!" I looked up and saw the dog shaking violently and convulsing! He was foaming at the mouth and had Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1128729916964773152005-10-07T19:56:00.001-04:002005-10-07T20:05:16.966-04:00Well, its time to play CATCH UP and tell about what is going on now in my life. Ministry wise, we are STILL in the same place we've been...but God is good and he CONTINUES to assure us that we are following him just as he plans. We are loving being involved in the church where we are now. Jim Tippins is such an amazingly creative minister. Last Sunday he spoke about THE VINEYARD...and we had Dnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1128729916048239732005-10-07T19:56:00.000-04:002005-10-07T20:05:16.056-04:00Well, its time to play CATCH UP and tell about what is going on now in my life. Ministry wise, we are STILL in the same place we've been...but God is good and he CONTINUES to assure us that we are following him just as he plans. We are loving being involved in the church where we are now. Jim Tippins is such an amazingly creative minister. Last Sunday he spoke about THE VINEYARD...and we had Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1127443917969367702005-09-22T22:47:00.000-04:002005-09-22T22:51:57.973-04:00Sadly to say, it looks as though anoher major storm is about to hit--RITA. This time, it effects my family who live in TEXAS. We are praying intently for them as well as the many who may be dumped on again after Katrina. My heart aches for the many people who have lost family members. I pray that each of them will be reunited and find each other. My mind is distracted as I begin to think of Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1127181612197251742005-09-19T21:52:00.000-04:002005-09-19T22:00:12.203-04:00Well, My daughter set her wedding date this weekend. I am very happy for them. I believe in my heart that God put them together! I must admit that I am a little discouraged after talking to my dad. I had hoped he would be excited but on the contrary he was quite skeptical implying that it was a mistake. He had alot of synical things to say, which did nothing but aggrevate me and make me Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1126752705591279192005-09-14T22:49:00.000-04:002005-09-14T22:51:45.600-04:00I was made aware of this tonite a church. WOW...what a profound Lament!! This was written by a professor from the school Tom received her undergraduate degree.Clyde Fant, Stetson UniversityLAMENTATIONSHow like a widow sits the city once so beautiful!She weeps bitterly in the night, with tears on her cheeks,Because there is none to comfort her.She stretched forth her hands, but none came to her;Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1126568109274242762005-09-12T19:27:00.000-04:002005-09-12T19:35:09.280-04:00Well, I think that August was just written off the calendar! I can't believe that an entire month has come and gone and no blog from me! In reality, I've had and am still having some computer issues that I suppose serves as a good excuse for my negligence. Perhaps the total truth is that absolutely nothing is much different than the last writing. I have done the exact same thing at work, Tom Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1122866286959298532005-07-31T23:10:00.000-04:002005-07-31T23:20:08.780-04:00I was extremely excited to hear from my son and to see this he sent me. I have no choice but to share it here. I suppose every parent should boast on their kids now and then. http://www.perrynoble.com/ I hope that if you read this that you will read it and share our joy in what God has produced in our son regardless of the things he may have seen in his parents. It proves to me that God Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1121630126790396742005-07-17T15:31:00.000-04:002005-07-17T15:55:26.796-04:00I have decided that I need to write again after much time and spaced have passed. I can honestly say that there has really not been anything major that has happened even since the last time that I wrote here. I wish that there were more to write about...especially that there were news about a church or some type of job information--but no, it is the same as it has been. About the biggest thingDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1119821279649368612005-06-26T17:11:00.000-04:002005-06-26T17:27:59.656-04:00ALIVE and WELLAfter reading over Matt Tullos' blog, I decided to plagerize and tell anyone who may have interest, that I am not dead or missing either. I have been busier (and Lazier) than I should use for an excuse. Since my last writing I have had a full plate. Some of what I have experienced was a taste of French environment. I flew from Greenville to Ft. Lauderdale and boarded a plane Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1117419374968741102005-05-29T22:08:00.000-04:002005-05-29T22:16:14.973-04:00Today's sermon was on David and Goliath and how we should not let obstacles stand in our way. It was very encouraging for our small church. The guest pastor was trying to encourage us to not lose sight of what God has in store for this church, even in the middle of our pastor's sabbatical. After church we went to our daughter, Rachel's apartment. This was our first time to see it since she Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1116803628799379622005-05-22T18:53:00.000-04:002005-05-22T19:13:48.806-04:00Shout for Joy to the Lord all the earth The words are yours I will listen, I will shout The words are yours with JOY I will shout The words are yours not just in my house, or my church, or my neighborhood, but in ALL THE EARTH. The words are yours. Worship the Lord with gladness. The words are yours I will worship, not just come to say I've come or to make an appearance, but I will come to Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1116798295940313982005-05-22T16:58:00.000-04:002005-05-22T17:52:35.716-04:00Today's sermon was really exciting. It was based on Jesus' First Miracle at the Wedding in Canaan. It was interesting to hear the perspective of how Mary must've felt. She possibly was the hostess to this exciting event and felt completely responsible for seeing that all the refreshments were maintained. Imagine her surprise when she realized that the wine had run out! She felt obligated to go toDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1116795494053559342005-05-22T16:50:00.000-04:002005-05-22T16:58:14.056-04:00Today was an exciting day as we were officially announced as Music Leaders at Summit Heights Baptist Church. This is such an awesome place to be even though it is extremely smaller than we ever envisioned. I believe, however, in my heart that God is going to use us there. Even though there is no compensation monetarily, we believe that God has put us there for a purpose. We have received Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1116200651149681412005-05-15T19:39:00.000-04:002005-05-15T19:44:11.163-04:00Here are the lyrics for the song I spoke of earlier...THIS MUST BE A PLACEby Steve AmersonWords and Music by Steve Amerson & Gary Schmidt© 1998 Steve Amerson Music (UMI) & Cenlergy Music(UMI)Souls on the street Addicted to sin Selling themselves to survive Not understanding the hope they could find In a place where God’s love is alive They doubt that they could meet The standards necessary And Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1116199549004856392005-05-15T18:56:00.000-04:002005-05-15T19:25:49.010-04:00Last nite we had a wonderful evening with some of our dear friends from Mauldin. They fixed a FABULOUS LOW CARB ka-bobs for us and I did a low carb Key Lime Pie--Today was back to Summit Heights Baptist Church where we have been waiting for God to show us how he wants to use us. Jim, the Pastor is going on a 12 week Sabbatical and asked if we would be open to helping the church in some way Dnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1115933282052722302005-05-12T16:27:00.000-04:002005-05-12T17:28:02.223-04:00So much has happened over the course of weeks since I have written. I have moved out two children into their own aparments --YEAH RAH for the empty nest..I have also graduated both of those kids and thankfully so! The speaker at our sons graduation was so challenging. Larry Thrailkill. He is a lawyer from Brentwood Tennessee and an active member of Brentwood Baptist Church. Here are the 7 Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1114483038349064292005-04-25T22:29:00.000-04:002005-04-25T22:37:18.350-04:00We had a great weekend this past week at the SC Baptist Creative Ministries Conference. What a joy it was to see people who are so gifted in their areas of minstry. People like Greg Cagle, Jeremy Lucas, Charles and Rebecca Reese, Dr. John Welton, Tyra Lockey....so many that were such a blessing. I will have to admit that I am not a big advocate of clowns and sometimes puppets, but I try to be Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1114043372595313272005-04-20T20:23:00.000-04:002005-04-20T20:29:32.596-04:00I am very thankful and grateful that Tom made it back home safe and sound. It was wonderful to see him again. I actually had to wait 2 days after he arrived home to see him because I was out of town with my dad having surgery. My dad did great by the way, but I was glad to get home to Tom without question. We're still maintaining our course on our journey. Tom met with a committee from the Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1113235154022723122005-04-11T11:58:00.000-04:002005-04-11T11:59:14.023-04:00Dear Friends and Family--Just a quick note to tell you that Tom called me latelast nite..about 8:30ish their time. THey were aboutto board a plan to Calcutta. He says overall the tripis going well, However they are experiencing someterrible battles with the food. Apparantly the twothat had been named in a previous note who weredealing with digestive problems were only thebeginning. Tom said Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1113235041557535802005-04-09T11:57:00.000-04:002005-04-11T11:57:21.560-04:00Hey Friends and Family--I'm attaching a letter fromthe Director of Tom's group. Thought you would findit of interest..++++++++++++++++Hey guys:I appolgize for not giving any updates on our trip.Our schedule has been so tight and the Internet Cafedoesn't open until 11:00 am our time. We have beengetting back to our rooms as early as 10:30-11:00 pmand one night 2:00 am.Things have gone well. The Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1113234953794417612005-04-08T11:55:00.000-04:002005-04-11T11:55:53.796-04:00Hi Friends and Family:I talked for about 8 minutes with Tom this morning.That was the first time I'd talked to him sinceTuesday nite. He said they have been pretty wellsleep deprived and that has been the most difficult.He says the temperatures are incredibly HOT and thatthe food has not been too bad...although it too hasbeen rather HOT. Where would he be without TUMS!They've only found one Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1112831015988515772005-04-06T19:39:00.000-04:002005-04-06T19:43:35.990-04:00Tom is in India now with the Singing Churchmen and I must admit that I am beginning to get a little saddened and missing him. There is only so much that you can do when you are completely home alone. I have no one here no except the dogs and cat. The empty nest is difficult when the rooster isn't even at home. I am praying for the guys that God will bless them in an extrordinary way. I am Dnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1112461667683119532005-04-02T11:45:00.000-05:002005-04-02T12:09:20.470-05:00I suppose that my slackness in blogging is coming back to haunt me as I opened my mailbox at home to find a LIFEWAY package. In the package were the preview books of LET'S WORSHIP which contained TWO of my writings. AMAZING to me for sure. I expect that if I anticipate to receive any future copies with my name in headlines that I should become more committed to my blogging. Let me write a little Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1109252706281747222005-02-24T08:34:00.000-05:002005-02-24T08:45:06.286-05:00Lord, Send us a Sign! If ever we needed a sign, yesterday was the day. Tom was interviewed by U-Haul for a General Manager's position. This would have been a JOB, and that's about all that could be said for it, beyond extreme stress and personality adjustment. There was a part of us that felt like we wanted to just take it and say "YES, he finally has a real job!". Then there was the other Dnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1108686515950070772005-02-17T19:16:00.000-05:002005-02-17T19:29:16.896-05:00I can't believe how inconsistent I have becoming in maintaining this blog! I am ashamed at the way I've allowed this to happen. No matter what, there have been so many times that I've thought "I need to write about this", but it has just remained a blog in my head to try to recall. I will try to remind myself of some events that may be worthy of trying to recount.I think the most recent event andDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1107486348939024782005-02-03T21:42:00.000-05:002005-02-03T22:05:48.940-05:00I'm laying here in my bed now nearly asleep, but I would be remise if I didn't stop breifly before approaching dreamland to share this blog. Last nite was an incredible evening as we went HOME to First Baptist Mauldin. We walked in the doors and it was as though the dove of peace landed on our shoulders. We walked into the fellowship hall to eat and could barely get in the door before people Dnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1107270161650853682005-02-01T09:13:00.000-05:002005-02-01T10:02:41.650-05:00Based on the previous blog, you could try to make assumptions as to how our day may have begun today. However, just as God knows who we are and what we need, He chose once again to reveal Himself to us. I read my 'online' devotion this morning and was so blessed as I read about Balaam and the donkey. God used a DONKEY, of all things to show Baalam that he was going in the wrong direction. ButDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1107223549640917592005-01-31T20:46:00.000-05:002005-01-31T21:05:49.640-05:00Sadly to say, its been a week since my last blog. Amidst a brief episode of snow on the weekend, we had a relaxing weekend. Church was cancelled because of the weather, but even in the weather we can see that God has a plan for everything. Had it not been that we touched base with the pianist yesterday, we'd have probably never known that church was cancelled. At any rate, today, Tom left Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1106691133406400182005-01-25T17:03:00.000-05:002005-01-31T20:46:36.746-05:00I am so confused right now...We've been so excited about things at this church, and now all of a sudden, Tom feels like there are power plays happening. The pastor AND the associate came in at different times yesterday and made mention of how 'disjointed' they thought the service had been. Of course, Tom took it all very personal and is feeling that he personally is being attacked! It makes no Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1106533052851923382005-01-23T21:04:00.000-05:002005-01-23T21:22:53.726-05:00Fancy words and accolades. These are the words I'm hearing now about the loss of a legend...Johnny Carson. What I wonder is that if there had been TV back in Jesus' day. Who would they interview? Would they have reports from his close friends and family. Perhaps Mary, Martha and Lazarus would speak about the perfection of Jesus' timing. I'm sure that there was an InnKeeper who would boast in theDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1106283713583284352005-01-20T23:40:00.000-05:002005-01-21T00:01:53.583-05:00Dinner with Friends!
Tonite was so special! We had the opportunity to have dinner with our dear friends from our former church. These were our friends and accountability partners from FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY. What a joy to share stories of how we were seeing God at work at both of our lives. The downside to the situation is that it is their daughter who is in jail for attempted murder Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1105927029390196472005-01-16T20:50:00.000-05:002005-01-16T20:57:09.390-05:00Today has turned into a wonderful day...one that we have prayed about for a long time. We truthfully didn't see how God could take us to a Part-time church, but we have determined in our hearts that this IS where we are to be. As of right now, it is still considered Interim I think, but it will eventually be offered as a PERMANANT position. Even though it is part-time, we are trusting God to Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1105666031991411132005-01-13T20:05:00.000-05:002005-01-13T20:28:49.326-05:00TRUST
To Place my Confidence
I place my confidence in the Lord with all my heart
I do not depend on what I understand
In everything I do I want to acknowledge Jesus for who He is
My result will be that He will direct my steps wherever I should go.
Those who know your name will place their confidence In You.
Jehovah Jireh
Confidence that you will provide
El Shaddai
Confidence that you are Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1105587748517960612005-01-12T22:39:00.000-05:002005-01-12T22:47:39.566-05:00The Laws Of The Lighthouse
by Max Lucado
The greatest day of lists is still New Year's Day.
And the number on list is the list I call the Laws
of the Lighthouse.
The Laws of the Lighthouse contain more than good
ideas, personal preferences, and honest opinions.
They are God-given, time-tested truths that define
the way you should navigate your life. Observe them and
enjoy secure passage. Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1105294423140828672005-01-09T13:05:00.000-05:002005-01-09T13:13:43.140-05:00Today was our first day at the new church. It was amazing to just get there in such a SHORT time! Interestingly enough, it was about half the distance we've been used to driving...also, we only had one service, so we were able to sleep in and leave MUCH later. The Bibe Study class I went in was led by the Pastor's wife. She is a WONDERFUL teacher! And just as God would have it, the Bible Dnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1105065273359777092005-01-06T21:27:00.000-05:002005-01-06T21:34:33.360-05:00Last nite was a really different experience. We went to a new church that has called Tom as Interim. We have been SOooo spoiled at the previous church. I can't begin to tell you how much we miss them. The church last nite was nice and friendly, but So so different. They are a much smaller church and the musical quality is certainly lacking. God has defintely placed us in a unique siuation Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1104891627864878752005-01-04T21:13:00.000-05:002005-01-04T21:20:27.863-05:00So far from perfection
So far from holiness
I need your perfectness
I need your holiness
In times when I am weak
Remind me you're my strength
In times when I am down and out
Remind me you're the one who cares
No one else may understand
and no one else may lend their hand
but you my God are all I need
You alone on whom I feed
Be my shepherd
Be my guide
Be my helper
Be my all
The only one on whom IDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1104803426797283772005-01-03T20:40:00.000-05:002005-01-03T20:50:26.796-05:00It's been a while since I last blogged. I hope that all my blogger supporters had a Beautiful Christmas and an exciting New Year. We were out of pocket on vacation to TX. My brother was gracious enough to send us money to cover our gas expense so that we could make the trip. We had a fabulous trip made up of visits with my mom as well as my brother and his family. We had several Mall trips, Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1103628640162843252004-12-21T06:12:00.000-05:002004-12-21T09:42:48.043-05:00CROCK POT LESSONS
"Something's still cooking." "God still has something in the oven". "A church is being prepared SOMEWHERE." Why is it that God always has to use things that are so tempting to me...like food? I suppose that He wants to use the things in my life to which I can relate! I need to remind myself that I am like a frozen piece of meat, wondering how it could ever be of use to anyone. Dnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1103597779560121042004-12-20T21:31:00.000-05:002004-12-20T21:56:19.560-05:00I read tonite from HUGS for Friends:
Crisis breeds camaraderie.
It turns total strangers into cherished confidants.
We're relieved to discover someone whose experience bears
a striking resemblance to our own.
It gladdens us to know we're not alone!
This is Soooo very true. I believe that God allows things to occur in our life so that when all is said and down, we will be able to be a Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1103510201338694982004-12-19T21:24:00.000-05:002004-12-19T21:36:41.336-05:00As I've said so much before
You alone knows what's in store
I try to think how it will be
To look for you, your hand to see
I know that all I have is yours
That you will open all the doors
Give me strength to trust your grace
To know your heart and seek your face
You will meet our needs each day
When we seek to see Your way.
Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1103509431475581452004-12-19T21:16:00.000-05:002004-12-19T21:23:51.476-05:00Today was a beautiful day! I must admit I felt like I needed roller skates for all that I was involved in this morning. We started out playing handbells, joined the choir for the procession, went to the orchestra to play flute, sang with the choir and returned to handbells (did I indicate that we played from the BALCONY!!!) At any rate, it was alot of running around! We went out after church Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1103412140556033722004-12-18T18:16:00.000-05:002004-12-18T18:22:20.556-05:00Has it been a week since I blogged :-(?? I hate that! I so often feel like Paul in that the things a I want to do I don't do and the things I don't want to do, I DO!
I will say that I was EXTREMELY grateful, thankful and appreciative for TWO contracts that I recceived today. I know that I have said it before, but it completely amazes me that anyone finds my writings of any interest. But I am Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1102798573443240632004-12-11T15:45:00.000-05:002004-12-11T19:56:01.463-05:00Its Saturday and has been a nice day. Ive been keeping Madison, Chase's sister. She is 2 and reminds me so much of the days when I used to keep Catherine. I think its times like this when I am reminded of some of the joys of motherhood that I had to miss because of work obligations. Then I got a 'second wind' of that when I kept Catherine. That experience with her convinced me that 2 children Dnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1102389337056107552004-12-06T22:09:00.000-05:002004-12-06T22:15:37.056-05:00Well, I'm back here, I just couldn't quite get the hang of the Squarespace Blog area. Perhaps if I had more time to really look it over I would feel differently...And who knows, perhaps I will continue to investigate it or something else, but for now, at least I am blogging!
I am watching Josh Groban perform right now...He is such an amazing guy. What a beautiful voice. Another artist that I Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1102204745516051182004-12-04T18:57:00.000-05:002004-12-04T18:59:05.516-05:00http://dianebarden.squarespace.com/
Check this out and see if you get it!
Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1101863435345277932004-11-30T19:54:00.000-05:002004-11-30T20:14:27.120-05:00I've set the TV remote on mute
But the sounds are still here
I need to release myself to quiet,
Silence, meditation
Don't let my ears be on mute
But let me hear you loudly
Clearly, distinctly
Let the channels of my life be completely tuned in to You
Fuzz, distortions and squiggly lines will be eliminated by Your fine tuning
I will trust you to be my Chartered Communicator and the
Timeless Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1101779328060922092004-11-29T20:43:00.000-05:002004-11-29T20:48:48.060-05:00I'm so ready for christmas vacation--and yet I realize that I have so much to do before that happens...There are Christmas parties, Musicals, church events, our reception...and on and on...I received a picture today from my brother and family and I really do miss them. Perhaps God is preparing us to go there...Shoot, at this point, I just wish I knew he was preparing us FOR SOMEWHERE. I know IDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1101564100185330152004-11-27T08:50:00.000-05:002004-11-27T09:08:08.186-05:00Once again, as it seems to happen so often (and more frequently here lately)...I have been in a BLOG FUNK....I suppose that as made so obvious by other readers, that my friend Matt Tullos has once again inspired. He has recently changed blog addresses and I suppose theres something to be said for a new look, a new freshness of something as simple as a blog site. In fear of being labled a copy catDnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1100569852587508332004-11-15T20:43:00.000-05:002004-11-15T20:54:13.340-05:00Today was an exciting day as far as potential church prospects. I decided to call the church that had attempted to call yesterday. I asked if they had a Minister of Music and upon finding out they didn't, I asked about emailing a resume. Not long after I'd sent it, the pastor called and had a few questions, but seemed very anxious to talk to Tom when he returns on Wednesday. I called Tom and of Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1100485283919496592004-11-14T21:15:00.000-05:002004-11-14T21:21:23.920-05:00Today we didn't go to our church because they were voting on the prospect Music guy. We ended up going to Jared's church and it was really good. The pastor spoke on how it is so much more easy to Praise God in the Good times rather than the bad - DUH! We sang just before the message "BLESSED BE THE NAME" - where it says "You give and take away, My heart will choose to say, Lord Blessed be yourDnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1100044572599187852004-11-09T18:44:00.000-05:002004-11-09T19:43:56.266-05:00Although I can not see you
I know you are here
Although I can not hear you
I know you are near
Although I can not feel you
I sense your peace
Although I can not Understand
I know I can trust you
I see you in your word through friends of the past
David
Issaih
Peter
Paul
I feel you in prayer through friends of the present
Susan
Matt
Jim
Betty
Lynne
Randy
I know that you are giving peace
I know Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1099864854017998052004-11-07T16:47:00.000-05:002004-11-07T17:00:54.016-05:00Today was a pretty tough day at church! This was the day that the announcement was made about the prospective Minister of Music and his visit to the church this week. We are still so amazed at what could possibly be the aspect that they are looking towards in this choice. Is he younger? Older? Does he have hair? Is he more talented musically? We just don't know!! All we know is that for Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1099625467386937472004-11-04T22:22:00.000-05:002004-11-04T22:31:07.386-05:00I have had so many letters of encouragment over the last few days. So many people realize that our days at FBC are numbered. We love those people, our family and yet, once again we have to leave and venture out and continue our journey. I am continueously praying that God will answer our prayer to find a place to serve before long.
I received a great letter today from my brother and sister -Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1099543191673688972004-11-03T23:38:00.000-05:002004-11-04T22:21:42.043-05:00A Dream...
Have I already said that I feel like I'm in a dream??? I just read our church bulletin announcing the man to come....it still seems kinda like I'm dreaming all of this...Hmmm when will this make any sense??
Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1099540632921151032004-11-03T22:48:00.000-05:002004-11-03T22:57:12.920-05:00Tonite was the BIG ANNOUNCEMENT nite!! The choir was informed tonite that next week, they will have a new person here to work with them who will also be there the following Sunday in view of a call. My hope is that someone will feel for us, for our feelings and what we will do next. My hope is that someone will determine to pray for us and commit to hold us up for God to give us the place he Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1099336264878737712004-11-01T13:50:00.000-05:002004-11-01T20:22:11.973-05:00I have really become slack over the last few days. Initially, I was just tired, lazy and all those other excuses, and days went by. I will say this, that God (as if we didn't know this) is always so good about giving us some encouragement prior to our need of it. We may THINK we know why we are hearing some special word or something, but not until later do we often realize all the 'why's'. I can Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1099010005876719432004-10-28T20:28:00.000-04:002004-10-28T20:33:25.876-04:00It's been a busy week trying to play catch up after being gone all week. So far, I've not been too overwhelmed. Tomorrow is going to be an exciting day!! I am going to Charlotte to attend the Women of Faith conference with my best friend from high school. I am glad that we're going! I've not seen her in probably 3 or 4 years...but like with many best friends, you pick up as if no days have Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1098838149501641992004-10-26T20:34:00.000-04:002004-10-26T20:49:09.500-04:00Well, I am home!! After a long, busy, fun and somewhat relaxing week, I am home! We had an incredible time as we began our adventure in New York City! What an amazing town! We were so shocked that all the horrible things and preconcieved ideas that we'd always heard about New Yorkers was thrown out the window! We really were shocked that people were nice and friendly and often so much more Dnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6056982.post-1097806215292964972004-10-14T22:02:00.001-04:002004-10-15T06:11:20.203-04:00Tonite is the NIGHT BEFORE my big trip with my Aunt Lolo!! She is taking me with her on a cruise to Canada and New England. I will go to work for just a couple hours tomorrow and then head to the airport en route to Ft. Lauderdale. I will stay with Lois over nite and we'll head for NY. I am excited about going to NY. I've never been before and I think it will be a fabulous trip. We will leave NY Dnoreply@blogger.com0