Deep in the Heart of Kathryn

And Now For Something Completely Different...

2009-08-17T15:25:00.015-05:00

We had a little fun this weekend.

Friday night Libby came over to visit and make homeade gummi's. Turns out the girl knows how to do corn rows.

I have been letting the boys hair grow for fun over the summer (they will get their school cuts tomorrow)

Michael's is pretty long, so this is what we did.

He started out sitting still and laughing...

They moved over to the couch and got serious...

Michael was really a trooper, it was somewhat painful at times, but we had fun.

He took quite a few breaks.

The end result.

Alex's corn rows...really, would he have set still for anything more? I don't think so.

This is what happens when the corn rows come out...fro.

While Libby was doing that, I was making homeade gummi's. It was REALLY simple and good. It is just like gummi bears without all of the preservatives and color dyes.

The recipe is:

1/4 cup sugar

3 packets unflavored gelatin

1/2 cup juice ( used Juicy Juice 100% juice, berry flavor and mango flavor)

Put in a sauce pan and heat until sugar dissolves

Then pour in molds...I used a baster to drip it into the molds so it was not messy.

Refrigerate about 30 minutes.

The Only Way to Travel

2009-07-29T06:00:00.004-05:00

My older sister lives in Brazil and she comes to visit several times a year. She always flies on an airplane because 1) you can't drive from Brazil and 2) she and her husband are both flight attendants, so they fly a lot.

The boys are used to the airport and being around Aunt Karen, that is the only way to travel.

Well, my younger sister lives in Kentucky and she is here this week packing up the things she is taking from my parents house. We were out there last night loading up her UHaul.

When we were driving away, Michael asked me where Aunt Susan was taking all that stuff. I told her back to her house in Kentucky.

He was quiet for a minute and then said 'how is she going to fit all of that on the plane"?

So precious.

A Cleaning Tip For You

2009-07-24T14:01:00.003-05:00

I wanted to share this with my friends...

Her name is Hazel and she is adorable.

Good help is so hard to find these days.

I know it's hard to clean your computer screen, especially the inside, so here is my little gift to you.

Click the word "here" in the above sentence

Momma

2009-06-30T21:42:00.003-05:00

In quiet moments my mind starts to wander...I want it to, yet I don't.

I think of you.

I think of the good times and the bad times.

So much laughter.

So many tears.

You were always there for me.

I thought you always would be.

I never dreamed you would be gone.

The shock is wearing off and the foreverness is setting in.

This is harder.

Much harder.

I want to pick up the phone and call you.

I want to hear your voice say 'hi sweetie'.

I want to ask the stupid questions that you can only ask your mother and not get laughed at.

I want a hug.

I miss you.

I love you always.

God Works in Mysterious Ways

2009-06-13T22:42:00.004-05:00

Coincidence...I think not.

So on Saturday nights after church a group of us go out to eat.

Tonight we went to Casa Rodriquez in downtown Bryan.

Whenever we go somewhere, Alex ALWAYS has some kind of toy animal with him (unless it is a frog, those are usually real).

Alex loves animals...he says that is what he was created for and that they need him.

Tonight the animal of choice was Rusty the Racoon, a small beanbag racoon.

He was playing with it in the restraunt and then left it there.

None of us were thinking about it as we stood outside for a while talking. Then we were walking to our car in the middle of downtown Bryan and a real live racoon goes running across the street in front of us.

Really, what are the odds.

Of course Alex takes off running after it screaming the whole way "a racoon, did you see that". The racoon sneaks off into the sewer.

Then I asked Alex if he got Rusty and he said no and ran back into the restraunt to get it.

I knew at the time that seeing the racoon prompted me to remember Alex's racoon but when we got home I really started thinking and went in to talk to the boys.

I told them that I didn't think it was a coincidence that we saw that racoon. We started talking about how God put that racoon there at the exact moment we went by so that Alex would not forget Rusty...it gives me goosebumps just typing this.

We had a great discussion about how much the Lord loves us and cares about us...every detail of our lives.

He knows every thought that we have, every thing that we do and every want and desire in our lives.

O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. Psalm 139:1-4

I told them how we need to recognize that it is the Lord doing these things and not just a coincidence that they happen.

It was super sweet and then Alex said next time he wants to take a shark with him.

Watch out residents of Bryan!!!

Alex Stories

2009-05-28T16:51:00.005-05:00

When Alex is in the right mood, his wit is lightning fast and his thought process is amazing...it often floors me the things he comes up with.

Here are a couple of examples...

My sweet Libby came over for dinner the other night and we were eating broccoli. Now Alex only likes the top of the broccoli and Michael only likes the bottom, so it works out nicely.

Alex calls his broccoli trees.

So as he is eating, he tells Libby that they are trees. She remarks that he is only eating the top part leaving the stems bare...he looks at her in an instant and say "it is autumn" .

Really, I would love to be in his head, even for five minutes...I have a feeling I would get quite dizzy though.

We were driving home the other day and Alex says "momma, do you know why I know so much about God", I asked him why. He said "because I go to church and you tell me things and then I was born again and that is why I am still a child".

That's my Alex.

Getting Bigger

2009-05-12T11:52:00.003-05:00

My boys are getting bigger and they are doing big boy things.

These are the days that I am so thankful for the Body and the awesome group of guys that teach and love on my kids.

These are the days I also go inside and not look.

I can't look, my momma instinct screams "do you see that blade"

Yes, that is Alex with a lawnmower...Jeff is a VERY brave guy.

Michael did really good, he got his box down and pushed hard...he is just like me.

Alex, bless his heart, was all over the place. He had a great time and Jeff chased him a lot.

No box for Alex...ever.

They worked hard, they sweated and they had fun.

They are so big.

Michael told me when he was done "whew, that was tiring, now I know how you feel, momma"

That made me smile.

Source of Swine Flu Identified

2009-05-01T09:45:00.003-05:00

Too cute!!

You Can't Take It With You

2009-04-22T21:11:00.006-05:00

We have all heard this old saying 'you can't take it with you', but I wonder if we have really thought about what it means.

This world is temporary, the things of this world are temporary. We spend so much of our time and energy on the temporary...furniture, houses, cars, TV's, toys, etc..., while having these things are not in itself bad, some are necessary, it is the value and the importance that we so often put on them.

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

So often we live like this world is all there is.

We will do so much to satify our earthly desires and pleasures. We very rarely live for what's eternal (or one sea turtle as a precious child once sang it)

The Lord has really been speaking this into me. Our life here is but a mist, we have such a short time to make Him known, so that the world may see our good works and praise our Father in Heaven.

Am I making Him known? Am I living like an alien, a temporary resident or have I set up shop here?

It has been almost a month since I lost my mother. My precious, sweet, wonderful mother. My mother who was always there for me when I needed her...and also there when I thought I didn't need her.

On a side note, never EVER take your mother for granted. She is wise and deserves all honor and respect. Treasure the time you have with her and if she asks you to do something, do it...she will not always be there to do it for. Anyway, that was all free (Butchism).

I am still grieving deeply for her. It is a loss like I have never known before. My mother had a big house with LOTS of stuff in it, land, a car, dogs and numerous other things. In the months prior to her death, I spent a lot of time helping her take care of all of this stuff.

One morning my mother woke up, she went to get out of bed and collapsed having a heart attack. Within minutes she was gone.

All of her stuff is still here.

When I lost my dad a couple of years ago, it did not impact me like this. I spent a lot of time thinking 'I can't believe my dad died and the world just keeps right on moving'. I was grieving and people kept working and playing. That was my focus. At that time I did not have to deal with the business end of a person dying...my mom did that.

My mother kept EVERYTHING. We have literally walked through her house saying 'are you kidding me'. She has closets full of old Barbies and doll clothes. While it has been sentimental going through old pictures and remembering toys we used to play with, really what am I going to do with this? I can't bring the Barbies to my house, well I guess I could...the boys could blow them up.

My sister and I have spent the past month going through all of this stuff, cancelling credit cards, giving away clothes, seperating possessions. And I can't help thinking that one minute my mom is here and all of this is so important to her and the next minute she is gone.

It is overwhelming.

While a part of me wants to hold on to every single thing because I want to hold on to my mom, He is showing me to hold fast to Him and He will take care of me and give me the desires of my heart.

I am His treasure and He delights in me.

I am thankful that He provides for me.

I am thankful that He blesses me beyond what I deserve.

I am thankful that I can not take it with me and that I will spend eternity with Him.

Happy Birthday Michael

2009-03-17T06:00:00.000-06:00

Wow, today my precious boy is ten.

A decade...

Double digits.

I think I am as excited as you are.

As you have been counting the hours to your birthday and feeling like it is taking forever to get here, I have been thinking about how fast it is going.

You are growing up right before my eyes.

I am so proud of you Michael.

I love how you love to learn thing.

I love to see how you love people and thrive on being with them.

I love watching you go into a room and say 'sup people and sit in someones lap.

I love to watch you get excited about things.

You are such a blessing to me.

I love you Michael!!

Happy Birthday.

Right Tune...Wrong Words

2009-03-02T15:20:00.002-06:00

One of my favorite things ever is when kids are either talking or singing and they say the wrong word...but they do not realize it is the wrong word, so they say or sing with all of the confidence in the world.

That happened this morning.

The boys got this fun keyboard with a book attached with different songs with the notes to play on it.

They have had a lot of fun getting faster to where the songs actually sound like the songs should. Michael thinks it is fun to memorize and not have to look at the pages.

One of the songs is "Are you sleeping?".

Michael really likes that one and has been playing it over and over and OVER again...it is a good noise so I don't mind, most of the time!!

So I thought that while he was playing, I would teach him the french words, Frere Jacques, Frere Jacques, Dormez Vous, Dormez Vous.

After a while it kinda gets stuck in your head.

This morning Michael was walking through the kitchen and I almost bust out laughing because my precious baby was singing Frere Jacques, Frere Jacques, Deja Vu, Deja Vu...it was too cute.

Same Kind of Different As Me

2009-02-19T08:47:00.001-06:00

This book brought me to tears.

Tears about the beautiful story of three people and the impact that they had on a city because they allowed God to work in their life. Tears about what it took to get to that point and the journey that they had to take.

Tears about my journey and the areas that I allow God to work in my life and the areas I am still in the process of giving to Him.

We all have a journey.

We all have experiences, good and bad, and we all have people come into our lives, good and bad, and we all have a choice of how we are going to use these experiences and these people.

The choice is basically are we going to listen to God and allow Him to dictate our every move and thought and not be surprised when He does great things or are we going to try and do this life on our own, hoping everything will work out right and being confused and angry when it does not go "our way".

This book is a true story.

A story about Ron Hall, Debbie Hall and Denver Moore. Ron an upper class art dealer who is used to the finer things in life. Debbie, his wife with a passion for the homeless that could not be stopped and Denver a black man raised on cotton fields, poorer than poor and eventually winding up a homeless man and the amazing way that God brings them together.

This is a story about hope.

A story about faith.

And a story about trust.

This is a story about no matter what your circumstances are in life, God has not forgotten about you and that He is always working things together for the good of those who love Him. It may not look like what we think it should, but that is how God gets the glory.

This book, if you allow God to let you, will make you look at people and life differently, because we all are the same kind of different.

I highly recommend that you read this book.

I recommend that you read it before March 5th, because Ron Hall and Denver Moore will be here in town!!

They will be a the Brazos County Expo Complex on March 5th at 6:30 pm. It is an event benefitting Twin City Mission.

I can not wait.

If you are interested, you can call Twin City Mission at 979-822-7511.

Our Little Secret

2009-02-05T22:15:00.003-06:00

Ok, so we are driving home tonight and out of nowhere Alex says "this car sure is smart".

I pause for a minute, wondering where in the world this is gonna go. Then I ask him why he said that.

Alex said that the car knows where we are going before we even get there.

Huh? what are you talking about Alex?

I've been watching he said...see up there...every time before we turn and he points to the dashboard.

Michael and I just looked at each other and grinned...ssshhh...our little secret.

Happy Birthday Alex

2009-01-26T00:00:00.003-06:00

My baby is seven today.

That is too hard to believe.

It seems like just yesterday you were such a sweet baby and now you are my sweet big boy...but you will always be my baby.

I love your energy and your fascination with everything.

I love when you snuggle up on the couch with me under the covers and we tell stories.

I love when you do something and you scream "did you see that momma" and I am standing right there.

You are loud and you are bold and you are absolutely crazy...God has such a plan for you.

I love how much you love Him, your desire to please Him and tell others about Jesus encourages me every day.

I love you sweet boy...

Crock Pot Recipe

2009-01-23T07:36:00.000-06:00

I am all about the crock pot.

I use it about two or three times a week.

So I am always looking for new recipes.

I made this yesterday and it was so good. I don't think it has a name but I am just going to call it pork chops and potatoes...two of my favorite things!!

Here is the recipe:

I peeled and cut up 4 baking potatoes. I start cutting them thin, but then the slices got thicker because I lose interest pretty fast. So it doesn't really matter how you slice them.

Put them in the crock pot with three cans of cream of mushroom soup, a couple of BIG dollips of sour cream and just enough milk to make it creamy.

I seasoned six or seven pork chops with salt, pepper and garlic salt on both sides and then just laid them on top.

I let it cook on low all day and when I got home last night I had this beautiful mixture of cream and potatoes and meat.

I was so excited.

I served it with green beans and I had friends over and they loved it.

I had just enough for me to have it leftover for lunch today.

I can't wait.

This Pretty Much Sums It Up

2009-01-03T10:52:00.002-06:00

Michael and Alex are playing at the kitchen table.

They are playing with cars and making up rules about what they can and can not do.

Actually, Michael is making up the rules and Alex decided to throw some crazy idea in.

Michael said "that is not logically possible".

Alex responded "it is just pretend".

That pretty much sums it up!!

Like Brand New...But It's Not!!

2008-12-30T09:59:00.003-06:00

I just paid off my car.

Can I get a woo hoo!!

What a great feeling to get in my car and know that I own it and I don't have to make a car payment next month.

I got in the car the other day and looked around and thought 'yeah, this car looks five years old and like I just paid it off!'

I have two boys.

Two boys can do a lot of damage to a car in five years.

Boys are nasty, dirty creatures who do gross things in the back of a car.

We have the standard once a week 'remove the toys and trash so you can fit and vacumn so you can survive' cleanings, but this poor car had not been really cleaned since I first got it.

I took it to the best place in the world to clean your car.

It is Pitt Stop Custom Car Wash and Detail on Longmire. I will shamelessly give them a plug, they are that good.

I first took my car there when it was brand new and I was parked at church (which unknowingly to me at the time has a flood zone in the parking lot, it is now marked on the curbs) and it was pouring down rain. When I waded to the car carrying two children (they were that small...sniff, sniff), I opened the door and there was two inches of standing water in my car.

I cried and Pitt Stop fixed it like nothing had happened.

So yesterday I decided to treat myself for paying off the car and have it detailed.

They come and pick it up and then a few hours later bring it back.

I cried again.

Oh my goodness it is like a brand new car.

The place where Alex spilled red juice...gone. All of the scuff marks and dried bubble gum and dried other things we won't mention...gone.

They got all of the things that fall down in between the seats that you can't reach with your hands or a vacumn.

I was so excited I jumped up and down and hugged the man who brought me my car.

When I picked up the boys I had to point out to them how clean the car was...they were pretty much oblivious!!!

We're gonna try and keep it like that.

I give it a week.

But for now it is like brand new...but paid for!!!!

Happy Birthday Momma

2008-12-25T17:24:00.006-06:00

Today is my mothers birthday.

I love my mother so very much.

Growing up we were two peas in a pod.

If I had known two weeks ago the journey I was about to go on, I probably would have said, 'I'd really rather not, someone else do this please.'

My mother is sick.

She has reoccuring breast cancer that has masticized to the bone.

She is going through chemo again and she is trying to fight it.

Two weeks ago she got very sick. She called me that Thursday morning to come get her because she could not get up.

My mother lives in Snook...actually you drive to Snook and then you drive 2o more minutes out into the middle of no where. I always say, when you feel like you have driven forever, then you know you are there.

I got to her house to find that I could not get her across the house, down the steps and across the gravel driveway...I had to call an ambulance.

That was scary, to see someone you love put on an ambulance is very frightening and it was only just the beginning.

My dad died two years ago and both of my sisters live far away and could not get here right away. So I am the only relative here. It is very hard when doctors and nurses start asking you questions and want you to sign things and they are telling you things and you have to make decisions, but you are emotional and you really don't understand.

I felt like Marlin in Finding Nemo when he was listening to the sea turtles give instructions and all he could say was 'it's like they're trying to tell me something, but I don't understand'.

My mother was extremely dehydrated. Her blood pressure and all of her 'numbers' were very low. Her fingertips were blue and cold.

The first few days were touch and go. Her bowel died. Apparently it can die and cause your body to stop functioning. That was very scary, because my dad's did the same thing but never came back. Not only was I going through all of this, but I was reliving my fathers death. It was so hard. I have never had to rely on the Lord so much in my life.

It was a roller coaster ride of one thing after another. They got her rehydrated and then the problems with her bowel. As that started to get better, her lungs filled up with fluid because her heart was only operating at about 20%. The doctors said that she had an 80% chance of having a massive heart attack and not surviving. All of this is hard enough, but my mothers eternity is not secure...that burdened me more than anything.

During all of this, she was still the parent and I was still the child, but it looked different. She was the one asking me for things and I was the one feeding her soup and jello...you are never really prepared for that. Over the past two weeks my mother and I have gotten closer than ever. We have been through things that people shouldn't have to go through. She has had every tube and wire possible attached to her and has not been able to move. I have been the one blessed enough to be there through it all and to serve her and love her. Yes, I am exhausted...physically and emotionally I feel drained.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:29-30

The Lord is good and her heart is healed. It is now performing at 100%. There was no permanent blockage in her bowel to require surgery (which she could not have handled) and she is about to be transfered to do a month of rehab to get her strength back.

Medically this should not be.

Last night I could not sleep...I was so anxious to talk to my mom. I want so badly for her to know the Lord. I have talked to her many times in the past about the Lord but today when I went in to talk to her, I told her that she was a miracle and that the Lord wanted her and I believe that He is saving her for a reason. She listened and she asked questions. I know that God is doing something in her heart besides healing it physically. Please pray with me that she will come to know Jesus as her Savior.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:1-4

I am considering these past two weeks pure joy and I would not give them to anyone else.

Taco Soup

2008-12-01T22:33:00.002-06:00

This is our new favorite meal.

Liz Amy made it for HOPE group one night and I had to have the recipe.

A meal is always a success when both of my children love it and can't eat enough.

The last meal that was this big a hit and still is, is Ashley Garrett's Italian casserole...cream cheese...need I say more.

Alex still asks for Italian casserole for breakfast!!

Anyways, I love that I can put taco soup on in the crockpot first thing in the morning and it is waiting (smelling SO good) when I get home.

Taco Soup

1 lb ground meat (or turkey)
1 medium onion chopped*
1 package Hidden Valley Ranch dry mix
1 package taco seasoning
1 can corn, undrained
1 can ranch style beans
1 can pinto beans, drained
1 can chopped green chiles
2 cans stewed tomatoes

Brown meat and onions. Put everthing into crock pot and cook 8 hours.

Liz serves her with cheese on top of cornbread.

I like mine with cheese and sour cream (if it's not cream cheese, it is sour cream!!) over rice. As I am typing, I am thinking it would be really good with tortilla chips in it...next time.

*I chop lots of onion up at a time...a good cry...and freeze them in a zip lock bag. Then you just grab a couple of handfuls, it saves so much prep time.

So good, I promise.

Alex's New Career

2008-11-24T20:47:00.002-06:00

Alex has a new career choice.

He wants to be a pest control man.

This afternoon the pest control man came for his quarterly visit.

Alex was completely fascinated with him...fortunately the man was very patient.

Alex showed him everywhere outside that he had seen a praying mantis and a Daddy Longlegs.

Once the man told him that he wasn't there to kill bugs, but to protect the house from getting bugs inside, he was Alex's new best friend.

He followed this man around the entire house and the whole yard. Alex picked up his super soaker and "worked" right along side the fellow.

I was in the kitchen and I could hear Alex in the backyard (he has a voice that carries a little bit) talking non stop...he was asking "why" this and "how" that. The man, his name is Steve, answered every one of Alex's question, which made Alex love him even more.

Alex asked Steve if he could stay for dinner, he politely declined.

Alex asked him how old he had to be to be a pest control man. We think about twenty sounds good.

Alex tried to bring his spray gun to dinner and talked the whole time about how he can't wait until he is twenty and he is a pest control man.

It is going to be a long three months for Alex until Steve comes back.

Funnel Cake King

2008-11-18T22:48:00.001-06:00

Wade Amy is the funnel cake king.

We had mucho mexican food at HOPE group last night and for dessert (I know it is not Mexican, but it is dessert that you fry in a pan) we had funnel cake.

I found a recipe and made the batter to take to their house and then Wade took over. I think that cooking with hot oil is kinda like cooking on the grill, men do it well.

He poured the batter through the funnel and flipped those things over like it was nothing, all the while he was telling us how at the carnival they have special sticks they use to flip them.

My job then was to hold the plate and then put powdered sugar all over them...yum!!

They were so good.

Wade said that he used to be a carny.

He said that is how he and Liz met.

I kinda believe him!!

Happy Birthday Lisa

2008-11-18T08:33:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday my sweet friend.

Over the years our friendship has grown and it has changed in many ways. But the one thing always remains is out of the overflow our love for the Lord is our love for one another!!

I thank Him for bringing you into my life.

I thank you for always being there for me. Even when we can't be together in person, I know you are always there in spirit.

I thank you for praying for me and with me.

I thank you for crying with me and laughing with me, sometimes even at the same time.

I thank you for loving me.

I thank you for being my friend.

I love you!!!

Do something sweet and just for your self today.

Overcoming Fear and the Glory of Boys

2008-11-11T09:33:00.006-06:00

Boys are great.

They are born tough and the older they get, the tougher, stinkier and grosser they get.

There are times that this does honestly, as a girl, really gets to me.

There are times however that it is truly a gift from God.

I have a huge fear and not just an "I don't like it" fear, but a paralizing and unhealthy fear.

I know this fear is not from God...

For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. Romans 8:15

My fear is mice.

I can handle bugs and spiders and lizzards and frogs...but something about a mouse that turns me inside out.

Don't laugh at me, we all have fear. It may not be in the rodent or reptile department, but deep down there is something in each one of us that we fear.

But the good news is that God will not leave us that way. He will eventually bring our fears to the surface and force us to deal with them. He may do it gently or in my case, hit me over the head with it.

Moving into this house in a newly developed, wooded area, I knew there were mice. I tried to mask my fear with denial...that I wouldn't get one.

Isn't that so like our human nature, if we don't want to deal with something, we pretend like it isn't happening. That really wears you out...hence being a slave!!!

So everything was going along great until a few days ago. I noticed some "evidence" of a mouse in the garage. My first instinct was to pretend that I didn't see it...yeah it's dirt...it's not real.

After a couple of days I knew that I had to do something. The thought of it getting in the house was overwhelming.

Sunday afternoon the boys and I go to HEB and get some snap traps. We get home...now I have never had to deal with this. I have never even touched a mouse trap...just typing this still makes my stomach turn.

So I am standing there reading the directions trying to figure it out and getting frustrated. Michael takes one look at it and figures it out...I love this child!!

We then line four traps up around the walls of the garage...it was like a military war zone!! I put a fruit loop on each one and we head to church.

When we get home and I tell Michael to open the overhead door...not the inside door in case it runs in the house and jumps on my face...a possibility you know!!!

I asked Michael if there was a mouse. He said no, but the fruit loops were gone. Are you kidding me!!!

Smart mouse.

So then I get a knife and lather them with peanut butter.

The next morning same thing...no mouse...but it dined on peanut butter.

I thought to myself 'I am feeding this mouse, why would it want to leave'. So I put more peanut butter on it and then get two of the mice hotels, where they go in and get trapped.

Last night when we got home and Michael opened the door, I actually saw it run. Now the fact that I saw this and did not wet my pants means that God is working on me.

The past few days of knowing that it was in the garage and still being able to live in my house and being ok was showing me that I do not have to be a slave to fear. I may not like what is going on, it may not be pleasant, but if I deal with it everything will be ok.

This morning when we were leaving the house, Michael opened the door and he and Alex both yelled "mouse".

The snap trap worked.

I gave Michael a dust pan and told him not to touch it...just to scoop it up, throw it in the trash and then run.

He looked at me like I was crazy.

He obeyed. He scooped that thing up like it was nothing, threw it in the trash and then ran around in circles screaming.

I think he was mocking me...I'm not sure.

So slowly but surely He is breaking down this fear. I may not like it, it may not be pleasant, but with His Spirit, I will deal with it.

Are We Listening?

2008-11-04T09:37:00.002-06:00

God speaks to us everyday, all day long.

Are we listening?

In the past week I had two great examples of no and then yes.

Last week I went to HOPE group. I pulled up in front of the house. As I turned my car off, I had the quick thought of "am I parked the right direction"? I let is pass because I wanted to get my kids and my food inside and start HOPE group.

I came out a few hours later and there was a ticket on my windshield...hmmm.

The very next day I went to Wal Mart to pick up a handful of things. I got to the checkout and made my purchase. As I was walking away, I felt "check your receipt", I never check my receipt. But I pulled it out of my bag and there was a purchase for hair bows. I looked in my bag and there are they were.

I have two boys...now I know Alex's hair is getting a little long, but we still don't wear bows!!

So I turned right around and got my money back.

Instantly I knew it was the Lord. I knew He was telling me to stop and check my receipt. Then He showed me that it was Him the day before. Had I stopped and turned around then, I would have saved some money!!

Lesson learned.

We seek God in the big things, but He wants to be involved in every aspect of our lives. He wants us to ask Him about everything we do...should I park here...do I eat this?

He wants to communicate with us all day every day about everything.

We don't have to walk around in the dark hoping we are making the right choices.

How cool is it to listen and then be able to say "thank You Lord" when He stops you from making a mistake...to walk in that constant communion with Him is to live in peace.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Two Of A Kind

2008-10-13T10:47:00.008-05:00

Easton and Alex.

How I love these boys together.

This has not always been the case.

If we rewind three years ago when Alex was three and Easton was two and we began HOPE group together, they were not the bosom buddies they are today.

They fought over toys, got into trouble, including a mural on the wall of markers...praise the Lord for Comet!!

Slowly they have come to love each other.

It has not always been easy, as with any relationship it takes work on both parts and they still have their moments, but it has definately been sweet to watch them grow, both physically and spiritually.

I remember one night at HOPE group Kaylene and I looking at each other when we overheard them sitting across the table talking about what Jesus wants them to do.

It has been a very special part of our week for a long time now coming to HOPE group and Alex immediately running in the door and straight to Easton's room.

I am sad that that era is coming to an end, but I am very excited about being obedient and where He is taking us...remembering how much He has blessed my obedience in coming to your house!!

I am also very excited that we will continue to do church together and that this is the beginning of a new era of Easton and Alex.

Much love to the Carpios!!

Go Tigers

2008-10-03T13:56:00.003-05:00

I know I live in Bryan now, but I still have to be loyal!!

I will always be a Consolidated alumni.

The game of the year.

Tonight, 7:3o at Kyle Field.

A& M Consolidated Tigers vs. Bryan Vikings.

Tickets are $8.00.

Be there!!!

Woo Hoo!!

2008-09-29T12:49:00.003-05:00

I just made my first mortgage payment.

One down...359 more to go.

Pretty exciting.

We have had a great time this past month settling into our home.

God has blessed us greatly.

I have had so many wonderful people come visit and play and guys to do non girly things for me.

The boys enjoyed helping the guys caulk the pipes and garage to keep out any unwanted visitors.

I love living in a brand new subdivision that is wooded...but you have to claim your territory from anything that lived there before you.

We live in town, yet there is such a country feel. We are at the end of a cul de sac that has a farm behind it and we heard the goats the other day.

I tried REALLY hard to put the lawnmower together myself...fortunately Carlos rescued me!!

I do like mowing my yard, that is fun and since I live on a slope, I get a really good workout!

Michael's favorite part of the house is the garage door. For some reason it is really exciting to him to pull up and then down that huge door.

Between that and moving the sprinklers for me, he feels like a really big boy.

He is.

Alex loves to roll around in the yard and find frogs. That child can find a frog in four seconds flat!!

I will be so thankful when I get grass on both sides of me. It is hard to contain them to just my front yard and they think it is great fun to play in the dirt with metal and wood.

That fortunately is just temporary along with the sandbags and port a potties up and down the street.

So here is to many more months of mortgage payments!!

***On a side note...I am looking for a swing set or play thing for the back yard if anyone is selling one.

So Very Proud

2008-09-26T16:52:00.003-05:00

Michael is my social butterfly.

He loves to be in the middle of everthing.

He loves when we have people over and when we visit others.

Michael also loves to make friends and to talk.

I have been having intelligent conversations with the boy since he was born and now the student has surpassed the teacher, grasshopper!!

So this is why this incident makes me so very proud.

I went the other day to his school to have my parent/teacher conference with his teachers.

I sat there and listenend to his teachers tell me about how well he was doing academically and how he participated in class and answered questions.

This was great.

Then one of his teachers told me that when school first started that there is another boy in his class named Michael who is a talker and was talking to my Michael.

She said that all by himself, without being rude, he removed himself from the other boy as to not get in trouble.

This is huge.

My boy loves to talk and to make the concious effort to make a good choice without being told showed so much fruit.

That boy got some huge momma praising. I told him that this was better than any good grade he could make and that Jesus was so proud.

My big boy.

It Makes Sense If You Really Think About It

2008-09-19T08:53:00.003-05:00

I love conversations when kids say something extremely funny but it really does makes sense.

Last night Chelsi Pohlmeier came over for dinner.

Five minutes after dinner Michael said that he was hungry and I jokingly told him to go chew on his cud, which led him to tell me that cows have four stomachs.

This turned into a conversation about the different functions of the body.

Boys always talk about bodily functions.

We were trying to figure out what the gallbladder does and figured that it filters something from the liver.

Then we decided that the appendix is a useless part of the body.

Alex said that the hair was a useless part of the body too.

Smart Chelsi said that hair is dead protein.

Alex looked at her and said 'that's why it lays down'.

Can't argue with that.

When The Wind Blows...What a Child Will Say!

2008-09-15T12:50:00.005-05:00

Like most people on Saturday morning, we were at our house hunkering down. We were stocked up on water and non perishables, I even let my children get hot fudge sundae poptarts...what will they think of next?

I don't know, but my children were happy and bouncing off the walls AND INSIDE...what was I thinking??!!

So we were cuddled up on the couch watching the local news to see what Ike was doing. Since we don't have cable, we were watching channel 3 with rabbit ears...fun!!

We were listening to all of the locals on the phone telling of trees that were uprooted and fences that were down.

I kept hearing a banging on one side of my house. Now since I have new construction on both sides of me, I was a little nervous. I had secured everything on my property, but with jobsites there is always debris.

Alex jumped up and looked out his window. We saw that the gate was open and banging in the wind.

He looked at me with all seriousness (unusual for Alex) and said "mom, the gate is banging on the fence, quick we have to call the TV station and tell them".

I love these children!!!

Glitter

2008-09-09T09:20:00.004-05:00

Yeah for Mary.

She came over last night so that she and Alex could do his "All about me bag".

There was glitter and glue and paint everywhere, they made handprints and dinosaurs and glittery shapes...fortunately they did it on the driveway which made me very happy.

I am so thankful for fun people who like to do these things and play with my kids.

My kids like it too because they are like big kids themselves, but yet they still say "dude, that's not ok and point them to Jesus'.

They like that I feed them!

That, I CAN do!!

Kari, I am going to take you up on your offer soon and so you know my kids think Dakota, Kye and Kru's mom is pretty cool.

Then it rained and washed it all away.

I never really wished for it to rain until I owned my own home. I keep thinking 'if it rains, I won't have to water'.

Fortunately, Michael has become very useful in the fact that I can say 'go move the sprinkler down a couple of feet', and he does.

I even showed him how to crimp the hose when he moves it and now he doesn't come back soaking wet.

You think all kinds of things when you own a home. Like 'if that goes down the drain, I'm in trouble' or 'who am I going to call if Alex flushes something else down the toilet'.

Notice something else, yes getting the train back was not fun!!

So Not My Gift

2008-09-03T13:29:00.005-05:00

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. Romans 12:6-8

The Lord has blessed me with several of these gifts.

The one thing He did not bless me with is creativity. Now don't get me wrong, I can make up a story with the best of them and I love to write and use my imagination.

The one area of creativity that I am not blessed with is art or ANYTHING related to it.

Even scrapbooking makes me cringe. I do very nicely sticking all of my pictures in those cute boxes made specifically for that purpose.

My children did not inherit this gift either.

We are in trouble this year.

Both of my childrens teachers seem to love sending home homework that requires painting and artsy "All About Me" pictures and creating journals.

It is hard to encourage my children to do this when I am standing there thinking 'where in the world do I begin'?

I had to ask Kaylene this morning if she had any of that paint stuff to make handprints because Alex has a big project due next week that is all coloring, painting drawing and decorating!!!

The Lord knew I was going to have to go through this.

He also says that we are one body, many parts...so if this is your gifting and you want to help me, I will receive it joyfully.

Alex + 1st Grade Teacher = Perfect Match

2008-08-29T08:47:00.003-05:00

Alex loves animals.

He loves to play with animals and search for frogs, snakes and lizzards.

Seriously, we can be outside for all of two minutes and he will have found a frog.

He is automatically drawn to any kind of animal.

He is more in tune with animals than he is people.

He will tell you when he grows up that he wants to be an entomologist.

I can see him in a tropical country somewhere far away by himself searching for bugs.

He is constantly pretending to be a different kind of animal. He runs around on all fours and makes, lion or monkey or dog noises.

When I call for Alex, he will say "I am not Alex, I am a dog".

I love his imagination, the ability that he has to make up the most elaborate stories (and remember them) is beyond me.

Literally, it is so far from what I am, but I love it. God made him that way and I pray that Alex will always use that power for good.

So yesterday when I picked him up from school he tells me that he pretends to be a dog with his teacher.

I asked him if he stopped when she asks him to.

He immediately responded "she hasn't asked me to stop".

Perfect match.

Thank you Jesus.

First Day of School!!!

2008-08-25T10:15:00.007-05:00

It's the first day of school.

But not just that, it is the first day at a NEW school.

Yes, since we have moved the boys switched schools.

They have been so good about this, they have not once complained or said they didn't want to go.

One night about a month ago, Michael came and got in my bed in the middle of the night. He said that his legs hurt because he was growing...that's Michael!!

I do not do well in the middle of the night, so I gave him some pain medicine and let him sleep with me. The poor baby tossed and turned all night.

The next day I got some one on one time with him (he CRAVES this) and he told me that the reason he couldn't sleep is because he was afraid of going to a new school. He is in the fourth grade and I was a little concerned about this but it was such a sweet time to share with him all that God was going to do through him and that he is such a precious child, that everyone would love him!!

When we went to meet the teacher last week it turns out that there are SIX new students in his class. Praise Jesus he is not the only new kid!!

Alex has not said much, but I always worry about him because it takes him longer to warm up to people, but this morning when I walked him class, his friend from church... Garrett Garner goes to his school, while they are not in the same class, it is a familiar face!!

I was proud that he wasn't upset when I left him. He liked his teacher and liked his new classroom.

Michael of course walked to class by himself, five steps ahead of me...I did sneak down his hallway and made sure he got there ok...it's the mom in me, shhh...don't tell him!!

I know they are going to have a great day.

I know they are going to make lots of new friends.

I know they are going to be starving when they get home.

I know they are going to be exhausted and in bed by 8:00 pm!!!

Yeah.

Disconnected!!

2008-08-18T16:35:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I have just moved to my new house in a new subdivision...so new that the lines for high speed internet have not gotten there yet...not so high speed, huh?!

Anyway, I could get a dial up, but they want me to get a home phone and pay installation, just to change it in a month or so...that is ok.

So I will not be on the blog so much because I can only check at work...no time!!

When I told Michael that we wouldn't have internet for a while, he looked at me totally shocked and said "what are we gonna do?"

I told him we were gonna live off the land!!

Really it has showed me how much time I spend on it at home and how much time I SAY I don't have for other things...I actually curled up with a book the past two nights at bedtime...nice!!

So queen of comments is on hiatus for a couple of weeks, you may see a few here and there, but not so much!!

TODAY'S THE DAY!!!!

2008-08-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

It's moving day!!!

Today is the day that we load up all my stuff and move it to storage.

NOT!!

T0day is the day that we load up all my stuff and move it to...OUR NEW HOUSE!!

That's right, God made it possible for my house to be ready for me to move straight in.

He just had to get my heart right first.

Once I died to my selfish wants and desires of how I wanted this to work out and surrendered to the fact that God is in control and I am following Him, He gave me my house.

Thank you Body for praying with me and sharing this exciting time with us. What a blessing it is to have so many people come along side me and help me and do all the "non-girl" things like lift heavy boxes and drive trailers.

I can not wait, we start at 6:00 pm tonight and will get it all moved and we will sleep in our new house and wake up in our new house.

The first thing I am unpacking is my coffee pot...it is gonna be a busy weekend!!

Happy Frogs

2008-08-06T06:31:00.003-05:00

Normally when I lay my head down at night, I am in a deep sleep within about fifteen seconds.

One of my favorite things to do is crawl into my comfy bed with my ceiling fan on and go sound asleep.

Last night as I laid down I was very aware that it was noisy.

My children were asleep and the house was dark but right outside my window was the sounds of very happy frogs.

They were singing...they were saying "I don't know what this stuff is falling from the sky, but I love it".

Even though it took me a little while to fall asleep, I thought to myself ' thank you Lord that You take care of all creation.'

I know He delighted in the content sounds of the frogs.

How much more does He delight in us when we are content in the fact that He provides everything we need?

God's Timing

2008-08-03T12:45:00.007-05:00

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.
"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9

I like to be in control.

I like to know what is going to happen and when it is going to happen.

I like to be organized.

I like to be punctual and for everyone else to be on time.

It does not take very much faith to map everything out and know when and how everything will work out.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

It is easy to quote this verse, but think about what it really means to take everything out of your own mind, all that you know and understand and what makes sense to you, and then replace it with how and when the Lord wants things done and how we as selfish, sinful human beings can do this and bring Him glory. And then when we somehow manage to do this, He puts us on the path to greater things.

The Lord is stretching me.

I know that the Lord has called me to Bryan.

I know that the Lord has provided a brand new beautiful house at a phenominal price.

On the other hand...

I know that I have to be out of my current duplex by August 15th.

I know that unless there is divine intervention my house will not be ready by then.

In my flesh, this makes my OCD go cattywhompus.

God is teaching me this is ok.

God is CONTINUING to teach me that He always provides and that He wants to grow me and make me more dependent on Him.

My main issue has been where will I put my stuff. I know that I do not want to rent a storage unit for a week. I know that it is not safe to put my stuff in my new garage.

On Wednesday night a college boy, who had never came before, came to HOPE group and he said "I have an empty garage if you want to use it."

So cool.

Mary, who just moved into the house of a jillion girls, just happens to be watching the boys the week we are homeless, so we get to stay there.

Needless to say that my children are contradicting my prayers of having my house done because they are SO excited about staying in the fun house.

God is in control.

God knows what is best for us and what He wants me to learn through this process.

When I look at all that God is asking me to do...be a part of a CORE group for a new church, minister to women that do not know Him, build a house and move my life to Bryan which requires the boys start a new school and work full time and take care of two children.

It can be overwhelming, but if God calls you to it, he will give you the strength to get through it.

May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Hebews 13:20-21

Whenever I start to think of it and I am not in the Spirit, my heart races and I feel dizzy. But then I remember that when I am weak, He is strong, He gives me the peace that transends all understanding.

It is exciting.

It is scary.

I give Him praise as I walk on the straight path He has put me on.

Did I Really Do That?

2008-07-30T07:01:00.005-05:00

Have you ever done something and then thought, "did that really just happen"?

Last night I stopped by the store and I was in the meat section, I leaned down to pick up some beef and 'whap' I smacked my mouth on the edge of the meat case.

My first thought was "oh that hurt", then I realized, my mouth is bleeding.

I am standing in the middle of the grocery store with a bloody lip.

The only thing close to me was those plastic bags on a roll that you put your produce in.

Yes, I used one.

Michael was very sweet and told me I was brave not to cry...I sure wanted to.

I came home and put ice on it thinking "I guess this really does happen".

Watermelon Football

2008-07-25T23:22:00.002-05:00

This was so much fun.

If you have never played watermelon football, you have to experience it at least once in your life.

Imagine a bunch of people, grown ups and kids alike trying to wade through the water with people pulling on them and get a watermelon across the "field" to score a touchdown.

That is what we did tonight at Thomas pool.

It would start by one person standing in the middle of the pool, each team on their own end and the person in the middle would dunk the watermelon under water and as soon as it came back up, everyone would attack.

Then we would fight and move and drag kick back and forth until one team scored. Then each team would limp or wade back to their side breathing really hard.

It was a work out.

I am sore and I know that I will have bruises tomorrow.

Ana White is viscious, she was pulling hair and kicking. Josh Owen has the scratch marks across his back to prove it. Don't worry, we did not let Kelly play. She has her own little precious "watermelon" to protect.

It was a little scary to see people like Jake White, Josh Owen and Ken Freeman coming at you...those are some big guys, but we girls held our own.

Our own little Sara Eaker was so good she even got traded...I don't think Ryan like that very much, but he and Carlos are pretty tough.

So much laughing, so much fun.

Good times and good friends.

Happy Birthday Jake, Ana and Kaylene!!!

Reality...NOT

2008-07-15T21:27:00.004-05:00

I love this show.

I used to be obsessed with it, but the Lord has delivered me from having to watch it every time it comes on.

I still like to watch it but I am not nearly as concerned about Ross and Rachels relationship as I used to be. I am almost over Monica's neat freakness and throw down competiveness and Phoebe's ability to be fascinated with absolutely nothing.

The Chan Chan Man and Joey go without saying!!

I love how they interact with each other. They fight like cats and dogs one minute and then love each other to death the next. I love how they live in New York, in nice apartments, yet they really didn't work that much. They sit and drink coffee all day...a dream of mine.

It was just plain funny and I think one of the reasons that I like it so much is that none of it could possibly be real.

You know another thing about the show that could not possibly be real.

The duck.

The duck that walked around and quacked, perfectly content in an apartment.

Not!!

We had (notice had) two ducks in our back yard for five days and it was nothing at all like that.

Ducks poop...a lot.

About every ten steps they poop.

Ducks dig with their bills in the grass and they quack and they smell bad.

Yes the first day was great, we came home and filled the baby pool up with water and Alex hugged and kissed the ducks and they swam around...like they might on Friends.

Then I was constantly hosing off the patio and washing feet and the straw that broke the camels back was when I woke up Saturday morning and my first thought was that I had to make sure the ducks had plenty of water, and I did this before my first cup of coffee...wrong!!!

So this afternoon I loaded up the ducks and we took them out to Autumn Lake. It wasn't easy, Alex was sad and they kept following us back to the car, but once they got in the water and with the other ducks they were happy.

So when we get moved out there, will visit the ducks and feed the ducks and then go back to my duck free yard that I am spending lots of money on and sit in my back yard and drink coffee.

Please feel free to come fish on our lake and feed our ducks with us.

Ducks

2008-07-09T14:44:00.002-05:00

One of the most fun things about moving to Autumn Lake is there is an actual lake down the road from us.

The boys can not wait to jump in...

It is a lake with a pier and is stocked with fish...come on out!!

Today my boss said that they were delivering some ducks to live on the lake.

They had done this before with baby ducks...but they were eaten by turtles, racoons or bobcats.

These ducks are bigger.

We are getting two ducks for ourselves tomorrow.

The boys are so excited.

They will get to name them and feed them and play with them (gently!!)

They will live in our backyard until we move and then we may put them on the lake...or keep them.

They will probably follow us home!!

So fun.

Shine Your Light

2008-07-03T13:44:00.002-05:00

At the end of every summer at church our kids put on a program called Kidshine where the kids lead the service.

They get to sing great songs to the Lord and we practice all summer.

The song that we have been practicing the past couple of weeks is Mighty to Save.

Love that song.

Well last night we were driving down the road and the song came on the radio. Alex popped up and said "that is the song from church".

It was so precious to listen to him in the backseat singing at the top of his lungs "shine your light and let the whole world see, we're singing for the glory of the Risen King".

I pray that he always sings to Jesus.

Our New Home

2008-06-19T14:26:00.005-05:00

What an incredible week this has been.

Last Saturday was the first core group meeting for the church starts at our church.

I have strongly felt the Lord calling us to Bryan for quite a while.

I love the ministry that we have started in Bryan with women who need to know the Lord, women who their children are getting poured into weekly, but they are not.

So on Saturday I was all set to go to the Bryan meeting.

Shortly before we split into two seperate groups, Butch made a comment that if you live in College Station and you are going to Bryan then you need to be prepared to tell him why.

That was me.

My stomach started to quiver, was I wrong?

What do I do?

No, I knew I wasn't wrong, stand firm...peace again.

I was prepared, certain Butch would stop me as I went into the room. I would say, I just know that is where I am supposed to be.

That was my argument...God said so.

I have always lived in College Station (since I was young, minus 8 years of my adult life).

College Station is what I know.

It is where I work.

It is where my kids go to school, it is where I do just about everything.

Except ministry.

I know that when we begin the church in Bryan that it is going to be intense ministry that happens a lot.

I know that when you do ministry you need to be part of the community you are working with.

I am so excited.

So Saturday night I felt like the Lord said "why do you have to live in College Station?"

I told Him all of the reasons I listed above.

It was not a good argument for Him.

He reminded me of a new subdivision off Villa Maria by Mary Branch (Autumn Lake).

I happen to work for the company building these homes.

On Monday I started filling out some paper work.

This morning my boss came in and said "so I hear you want to buy a house"...well I'm thinking about it, I said.

I told him what I wanted and he said, "we can work something out".

Did we ever...God blessed my socks off, my boss gave me a deal that I could never get anywhere else.

I signed the contract today.

It is official.

I will be able to move into my new home in August (the one pictured above).

The boys are so excited.

The subdivision has a lake and a park.

Best of all, God has taken me even further out of my comfort zone.

He is showing me that He blesses obedience.

"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' Matthew 25:23

He is showing me that He wants to do even greater things through me.

How can He not get all of the glory in this?

This is not something that I could even begin to accomplish on my own.

Praise Him!!

Frog Heaven

2008-06-14T09:45:00.003-05:00

We have created frog heaven.

We have been spending a lot of time with friends at the park where many frogs live. The boys have been bugging me about bringing frogs home with them.

I have told them no because there was no place to put them.

Not anymore.

Last night they begged to bring two frogs home and they had them in a pepsi cup.

I said ok and that they could live in the back yard...they were so excited.

We got home and I thought they would put them in the yard and that would be the end of it...little did I know, that was just the beginning.

Michael had the smart idea (of course) to put them in the pool that we had done the oobleck in. It was cleaned out and just waiting for frogs!!!

We woke up this morning and the frogs were still there.

I knew that if we left them there with nothing, they would bake in the sun...not what I want to come home to!!!

So me and Michael and Sydni got the idea to put water and dirt and leaves and branches in the pool. The pool was misshapen so it is like hills and valleys with water and dirt in it. We made them shade with the branches.

Alex was still asleep while we were doing all of this.

When he woke up, his first question was "can I give the frogs some water?"

I said to him "come see what we have done"!!

He was so excited.

I told him the only rule was that he could not get over in the pool.

I am sure I am inviting other creatures to come visit, but it is worth it.

So now they can collect crickets and frogs (no snakes!!) and bring them home to frog heaven!!

When Will She Blog Again?

2008-06-12T16:21:00.003-05:00

So much happens in a year.

So many things to share and write.

I was going through my links and it just so happens that today June 12, 2008 is exactly ONE YEAR since our MacKaycee The Cool Girl Drummer has updated her blog.

And what a year she has had.

What happens if you don't blog in a year?

Does your blog die?

Do people take you off their links?

I am leaving her on mine because I have faith that she will blog again.

She will share all that the Lord has done in her life.

So if you see Kaycee BEVERS around...her blog title isn't even correct anymore...she has a whole new ballad...ask her when will she blog!!!

I Love This Bracelet

2008-05-29T13:03:00.003-05:00

Well not this exact one, but one that is very similar.

Something happens to little boys around the age of nine, in public they become very aware that they have a mother and that she is not always "cool"...I think I am always cool, but that is another story.

Anyway, a little over a year ago we had a guest speaker at church who was talking about being a missionary.

He did the children's chat and he was giving out these little bracelets to remind the children that wherever they go, they are missionaries.

I told Michael, who is nine, to get me a bracelet.

He was so precious, he sat through the chat and when they handed out the bracelets, he whispered to him "can I have one for my mom".

Then as they were leaving to go to childrens church, he very slyly handed it to me without a word.

The bracelet was so pretty with very vibrant colors. I wore it every day without taking it off, I wore it until it was so faded you could hardly tell what the colors were.

I did wear it to remember that we are always missionaries. Our life is to always be about Jesus Christ, but I also wore it because no matter how old our children get, they are still our precious babies.

Not too long ago, the bracelet broke. It broke because it was literally worn out.

I was very sad, sadder than I ever imagined I would be.

Then yesterday my precious son was in his room and he came out with a new bracelet he had.

He was excited to give it to me.

I am wearing it very proudly.

Deep Conversations

2008-05-23T22:33:00.003-05:00

The mountains saw you and writhed. Torrents of water swept by; the deep roared and lifted its waves on high. Habakkuk 3:10

I was driving down Hwy 6 tonight and the boys were in the backseat. Out of nowhere Michael says "did you know that there are parts of the ocean that are so deep they are undiscovered?"

This started a conversation about how you can not go to certain deep areas of the ocean because you would implode and it is too deep to even breathe even with all the technology we have.

We were talking about the fact that there was probably ocean life that people don't know anything about because we can't get to it...Michael added that we know more about parts of Mars than we do parts of the ocean...but that is just Michael.

Then we started the same conversation about tops of really high mountains, that you can't climb to because there is no oxygen and you would pass out or die...Alex said he could...but that is just Alex.

Then it led to traveling to certain parts of space that are too far away.

Then we brought it back to God...that is the part I like best.

How big God is that He created the vast oceans and all the life in it and He knows the animals that we don't.

He has been to the top of the mountains that we can't get to and He created all of space.

It was so cool to talk about the fact that we only see a small part of Bryan/College Station, but there is so much more.

Things we can't even imagine...things that scream out "I was created, not poofed into existence".

Michael asked me why did God create these things if we can not see them or get to them.

I love this child.

I got to share with him that we have no idea why God does the things He does, it is not always for us to know...that is faith.

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

But I got to reassure him that it was for a reason, and it is good and we would know some day.

I love these conversations.

I told Michael that when he grew up he could go and explore the world. He told me, and I quote "are you kidding, with all of these oceans and mountains, I would never even make it to Canada."

We'll save that for another conversation.

Right now he knows that God is good, he made the world and everything in it, the winds and the waves obey Him...as he grows he will learn that he can do all things through Christ who gives him strength!!

LORD, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, O LORD. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy. Habakkuk 3:2

I Am Not A Pineapple

2008-05-16T09:18:00.001-05:00

I want a bicycle.

I am going to get a bicycle.

The boys ride all the time.

Michael can do stunts and Alex has just started riding without his training wheels, so every evening they want to ride their bikes.

I started thinking it would be great if I got a bike and we could all go riding together.

I have not ridden a bicycle in probably 25 years. At least not a bike that doesn't move.

I can tear it up on a stationary bike!!!

So just for the fun of it the other day...when no one was watching, I decided to get on Michael's bicycle to see if I could even do it anymore.

His bike is little to me...not scary at all.

I could ride it easy, so therefore I thought I had it made and I couldn't wait to go get a bicycle.

Last night, Nellie's last night in College Station, the Freeman's (who live about three streets down from me) rode their bikes over to my house.

We were sitting around talking and I decided to try to ride Cindy's bike.

It is not so small and when I got on I froze...even with Ken holding on to the bike, I panicked and wouldn't pedal.

So I stopped.

From behind me I heard Cindy saying "pineapple", I had not seen this video so I had no idea what she was talking about, I thought she was calling me a pineapple for some reason.

They started talking about this video and we came inside and watched it...too funny, but in the back of my mind all I could think is 'I am not a pineapple'.

So when it was done, I put my tennis shoes on and I was determined to ride that bike.

I went outside and got on the bike...very slowly I pedaled and I rode. It was awkward and I ran into a bush and made my children get out of the way...for their safety.

But I did it...I am not a pineapple.

I will get a bike and I will ride well!!

Not So Good Clean Fun, Another Use For Wooden Spoons and Sweet College Girls

2008-05-06T13:47:00.011-05:00

Is this not every kids dream? Mom, please put me over in a big pool with goopy mess and let me go to town!!!

These are some more pictures from our oobleck night of fun. Look at these faces, aren't they precious!

That is Easton back there behind Michael's head. He was concentrating very hard on the oobleck.

They used the wooden spoons for stirring, mostly they used their feet and hands, but occasionally they would use the spoon.

I used to not let them play with the wooden spoons because they were for discipline and not fun, but their little hineys have outgrown the spoon...yes, we have moved on to a long paint stirrer.

I wrote on it "Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him." Proverbs 22:15

It definately makes an impression...both on their hineys and their hearts!!! But I still carry a spoon in my purse, for space sake!!!

A good time was had with the oobleck, but more of the good time was because of these girls. I love that these girls not only want to come over and get messy with us, they want to be a part of our lives. They want to play and pray and live and laugh with us.

What a blessing.

I love that it is "normal" to my children to have all of these college kids in and out of our house. I love being part of a body where intergenerational relationships are so important.

I forget that not everyone does that and I get strange responses from my co-workers and family when I talk about my college friends.

I will never forget a couple of years ago I went to Breakaway with my dear sweet Nellie, who is moving to New York soon (sniff), and she introduced me to all of the college students as "her friend Kathryn".

I am so glad that Mary, Nichole and Libby are here this summer for more fun...girls, be thinking of what our next adventure will be!!

**Unforgettable Alex quote...my sweet Libby brought turtle (carmel & chocolate) brownies for dessert the other night and Alex asked "how did they get the turtles in there?"

My Jesus

2008-05-02T06:32:00.001-05:00

Wow.

I don't have any words.

This says it all.

I want to be like my Jesus.

My Little Fisherman

2008-04-28T16:52:00.004-05:00

This boy is a natural.

He loves to fish, he has the patience and the endurance it takes to sit for hours and wait for a fish. He is really good also, so he doesn't usually have to wait that long.

He knows how to be quiet and how to pull on the rod to get the fish.

Last weekend he won the most fish caught, fifteen, at Cub Scout camp.

Look at that face, isn't he just a beautiful boy.

I am so proud of my BIG boy!!

"Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." At once they left their nets and followed him. Matthew 4:19-20

Oh My Alex!!

2008-04-24T10:57:00.008-05:00

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11

Alex learned this the hard way yesterday.

Alex loves animals, bugs and creatures of all types. He is drawn to them...therefore he is not afraid of any of them either. This is the child who will pick up a spider in the kitchen without even thinking about it and take it outside for me. Michael is more like me and allows Alex to do it.

I have to watch him closely with dogs that people walk down our street.

As I posted earlier, Alex is the Ant Whisperer and can play with them and not get bitten...at least if he does he is not affected by them.

This led Alex to believe that he could do the same with bees.

On Tuesday night I had my sweet Mary and Nichole over and Alex was playing outside in the hedge...with bees. Nichole being Nichole thought this was really cool and funny. Mom being mom told Alex several times that if he played with the bees he was going to get stung.

He did not agree with me.

I never actually told him 'do not play with the bees'. He did not disobey me, so therefore I could not punish him.

He made it through Tuesday fine, which therefore led him to believe when we got home on Wednesday he could continue to play with the bees.

Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour 1 Peter 5:8

I was in the kitchen cooking food for HOPE group and I could hear Alex outside excited and talking to the bees...I warned him again...he actually held one in his fingers and he reminded me of Idgie on Fried Green Tomatoes who was a bee charmer.

When it was time to leave I went looking for Alex. He wasn't outside...I went to his room...the door was locked. I told him to open the door, when he did, I said it's time to go.

Alex told me he did not want to go to HOPE group...very strange since he loves playing with Easton and all of his big friends (college people). When I asked him why, he said that he didn't want to tell me.

I looked at him and said "Alex, did you get stung by a bee"? He started to cry and said yes. Praise the Lord he is not allergic and did not swell up...but it sure did hurt.

I didn't have to say anything.

So Alex learned a lesson. He belongs to Jesus and thankfully Jesus disciplines those He loves.

This is what I am praying for Alex so that the next time I warn him, he will remember and be quick to listen and learn.

My son, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge. Proverbs 5:1-2

Soccer Attention Span...Zero

2008-04-22T21:40:00.003-05:00

Alex is playing soccer this semester.

I had been thinking it would be a good idea for Alex to be in an activity since Michael is in Cub Scouts and I was afraid he might be feeling left out, so when Heather told me that Hayden was playing and asked if Alex was, I thought that would work since...

Alex can run very fast.

Alex can kick the ball very hard.

Alex can do both at the same time and hit it in the goal.

When he wants to.

I have come to find out that Alex is not much for organized activities...Alex lives in Alexland, population 1, and is very happy there.

Seriously, Alex has always been able to entertain himself for hours either playing with his animals in his room or finding as many bugs possible outside.

So while all of the other kids are practicing soccer, Alex is being the Ant Whisperer, he really plays in ant piles and they don't bite him.

His poor, patient coach, I guess it is good for Aaron that he didn't get on his team, is constantly calling Alex back over. Alex obeys and then a couple minutes later he is off on his own again.

He does really well in the games because everyone is cheering and he knows he will get snack...until the last ten minutes and then he decides he is done.

We tried it...

It has been fun...

but Michael pretty much summed it up last night at practice, I was sitting in my cool chair in a bag and Michael was sitting in my lap...Alex was doing his thing and Michael looked at me and said in his very serious grown up voice, "I don't think Alex should play soccer anymore."

We'll see what's next.

Funniest Saying Ever

2008-04-10T18:30:00.003-05:00

Alex was sitting in my lap at the table before dinner.

I was playing with his hair and started to notice little bits of dirt in it.

I said "Alex, there is dirt in your hair, were you rolling around on the ground today?"

Alex said, "no, I was throwing dirt and seeds up in the air."

I said, "and it all landed on your head?"

Alex looked at me and said, "mom, flowers will grow"!!!!

Such a funny kid.

People run on a pool of oobleck

2008-04-08T07:16:00.001-05:00

This is what we intended on doing.

This is NOT what happened.

Do you have any idea how many boxes of cornstarch it takes to make oobleck?

We started out with 12 boxes and a plastic kiddie pool. The 12 boxes barely covered the bottom of the pool.

Nichole and Michael went to Krogers covered in the white mess to buy 10 more boxes.

I can not even imagine how many HUNDREDS maybe even THOUSANDS of boxes they used for this video.

Kaylene and Nichole have the pictures, even though we did not fill the pool up to the top and run across it, we had so much fun.

Nichole and Libby were like Lucy and Ethel stomping on the cornstarch and water to mix it together.

It really does work. It is solid and liquid.

The boys had a ball squeezing it through their hands and mixing it.

When sweet little Easton first got there, he looked at me like "you want me to touch that stuff"? He is his fathers son. But it didn't take long for him to join right in.

Alex ate a lot of it.

It makes your hair very shiny and clean.

A good time was had by all!!!

We Are Making Oobleck

2008-04-02T22:04:00.005-06:00

Unlike this book, we are not bored and Oobleck will not fall from the sky and gunk up our city (you should read this book).

I love Dr. Seuss.

But, we are making Oobleck on Friday night.

Most directions for making Oobleck are

1 cup water

1 1/2 cup cornstarch

food coloring

Mix together and have fun.

We, my sweet Nichole and Mary, and I are doing this on a much larger scale.

We are making a pool of oobleck.

What is oobleck you ask?

Oobleck is both a solid and a liquid. It takes the shape of whatever container you put it in (a pool) if you touch it, as long as you are moving, you can hit it or run on it, it is a solid.

If you stop, it turns to liquid.

Ours will be blue like water.

What a perfect illustration of when you are keeping your eyes on the Lord and moving forward you are ok...the minute you stop, you sink.

It will be fun, we will eat hot dogs and get messy.

Come join us.

My Sweet Baby Has Jesus in his Heart

2008-03-24T14:24:00.003-06:00

My sweet baby asked Jesus in his heart a few days ago.

Alex loves Jesus.

When he wants to give Jesus a "high five" when he makes a good choice, he slaps his chest...because that is where Jesus lives.

We have been talking for over a year about what Jesus did and what salvation means.

Alex tells me all about Jesus dying on the cross, but he would usually end the conversation with something about dinosaurs or his Power Ranger House.

I knew that he understood the concept, but probably didn't fully understand the significance of what Jesus really did for him.

It is hard to tell with Alex because he is usually "out there" about most subjects and has an imagination all to himself.

The other night we were talking and he was very serious. He told me that he loves Jesus and that he knows Jesus loves him and died for him.

Then he wanted to pray. He asked Jesus to live in his heart and help him to make good choices and obey because he sins.

It was so sweet.

The angels are rejoicing!!!

Happy Birthday Michael

2008-03-17T11:57:00.004-06:00

Happy Birthday my sweet boy.

Today you are nine years old.

It is still hard to believe, it is going by so fast.

Nine years of conversations, because you were born talking like an adult.

You are my sweet and compassionate child who loves and feels so deeply.

I love you.

I treasure you as a gift from God.

A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. John 16:21

Fizzix + Sprite + Crazy People = Lots of Fun

2008-03-08T13:54:00.003-06:00

We love Fizzix.

Fizzix are like Gogurts (yogurt in a tube) with carbonation.

Up until last night we ate Fizzix like normal people, as a snack on the go.

Last night we had Mary and Nichole over. We ate dinner and dessert and then five minutes later, Michael being Michael said "I'm hungry, can I have a Fizzix".

Mary and Nichole had never heard of them and Nichole wondered what it would be like with soda since it was carbonated.

That is what started the madness.

We put a little Fizzix in our mouths...a little Sprite...shake our heads and watch them fizz.

We (mostly Nichole) wondered if we could make them erupt.

We went outside for this.

I put half a tube of Fizzix in Nicholes mouth...a BIG dose of Sprite and she shaked and then she did erupt...all over me!!!!

We laughed so hard we almost peed our pants...the boys had a blast.

We were on a role, so why not get out the Kool Aid and sniff it to see our colored snot.

Mary was all over this one but she did not have a runny nose...so she sniffed an onion to get the juices flowing, sniffed some Kool Aid and voila purple snot!!!

We were rolling...standing in my kitchen sniffing Kool Aid.

So much fun was had by all...memories were made and bonds were formed.

I mean really, you can't spew on someone and not have a connection.

We will do it again.

Love you girls!!!

Let it Snow!!!!!

2008-03-07T07:23:00.003-06:00

Somebody forgot to tell Mother Nature that we live in Texas.

It is snowing outside!!!!

Big fat snowflakes!!!!

Woo Hoo!!!

****UPDATE*****

It is now two hours later and the snow is gone and the sun is shining, but I will never forget how excited the boys were dancing around in the snow and then Michael in all his seriousness looked at me and said "we can't go to school mom"

So fun.

Charlie bit my finger - again !

2008-02-28T22:00:00.001-06:00

I love this.

The first time I watched it, I thought this is funny, but then the second time I thought how many times do we do this ourselves? We get bit a little bit and then instead of getting away from it, we do it again and then get bit even harder.

We learn several things from this video.

First, if you stick your finger in a baby's mouth, they are going to bite you...hard.

Secondly, they are going to think it is funny and if you stick your finger in their mouth, they will bite you again...they do not know any better.

The "baby" can represent so many things...sin, idols, satan. It is our job to let the Lord show us that we are getting bit and flee.

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. James 4:7-8

When we keep our eyes on the Lord and listen to the Holy Spirit nothing will catch us off guard...because nothing catches Him off guard. We will not get that look on our face like this little boy and have to wonder "what is happening".

We will know and it will be good!!

Bargain Blitz

2008-02-26T16:00:00.003-06:00

I love a sale.

In an effort to find jeans for my boys, I am going to the Brazos Center on Saturday morning.

It is a Bargain Blitz from 8:30 am till 3:00 pm.

They are supposed to have more stuff than just clothes, so you never know what I could come home with.

I am taking my children, so the possibilities are endless...except live animals, I draw the line there.

Sorry Kyle, can't do it.

So here is the info.

http://www.jlbcs.org/Fundraisers/Bargain+Blitz

HELP!!!

2008-02-22T13:06:00.005-06:00

I do not pay full price for clothes.

I refuse to.

Not for my children or myself. It is just crazy to spend that much money on clothes.

I watch and wait for things to go on sale, I thrift shop and people are nice and give me clothes!!

When my children were little, this was not a big deal. Once Upon A Child has a plethera of infant and toddler clothes. You can make a nice wardrobe for only $25.00.

My kids are big.

Like size 7 and 10 big...and growing!!

Nobody has GENTLY used clothes for boys who are size 7 and 10. Mainly because this is a contradiction of terms. There is nothing gentle about two boys who play rough and tough.

They are boys.

One time I caught Michael with a pair of scissors cutting holes in a t-shirt because he wanted to see if it would work.

Boys!!!

I went to the sale at the Brazos Center this morning, in which I was very disappointed. It was much better last year...nothing...Once Upon A Child...nothing...Goodwill...NOTHING!!

Fortunately, my children are boys and they don't care what they wear, but really, when the holes in the knees are big enough for me to put my hand in and tickle a leg there is something wrong!!

Help a sister out...does anyone know of another place?

Cutie Pie Kids

2008-02-16T16:07:00.007-06:00

You gotta love those silly boys at the Waco Zoo!!

As I am trying to teach these boys to love each other and get along, there are moments of fighting and arguing and crying. But it is the moments like these, brother lovin, that show the real fruit!!

Alex always has some kind of costume or being some kind of animal.

Michael is too cool!!!

Alex loves his Nellie...we all do!!!

Why Me Lord?

2008-02-11T21:05:00.000-06:00

Why me Lord?

How many times do we, or rather I, ask that question?

Why do I have to suffer?

Why do I have to get betrayed?

Why do I have to get hurt?

I have been meditating on a verse.

I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, and so, somehow, to attain the resurrection from the dead. Philippians 3:10-11

I have been asking Jesus to make me more Christ-like.

We all want to achieve that, we want when people look at us, to see the image of Jesus.

In my small mind for a very long time, being Christ-like meant to do nothing out of selfish ambition, to love others with a servants heart and be kind.

And don't get me wrong, those are all a picture of Jesus.

Just not the whole picture.

God hit me over the head this morning...that is usually what it takes.

To be Christ-like is all of these things together.

Jesus suffered.

Jesus was betrayed.

Jesus was hurt.

To be Christ-like means I will have to go through these things. It is not easy, but it is NOTHING in comparison to what He did for me and He is SO worthy.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

I consider it pure joy when I face trials because God is growing me and maturing me so that I will not lack anything.

If I am not going to lack anything, that means I have to go through the good...the bad...the easy and the hard!!

That's ok.

That is actually good.

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. Acts 20:24

Jesus and I are in this race for the long haul.

And like most of the time if I run, I may feel sick sometimes in the middle, but there is sweet victory in the end!!

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:2-3

Psalm 119

2008-01-29T21:44:00.000-06:00

I have been reading Psalm 119, yes all of it...and you are right Heather, I didn't die.

I have read it many times before.

I have even done the excercise where you underline laws and precepts and statutes describing God's Word.

David loved God's Word, it was sweeter to him than honey (vs 103) and more valuable than gold, and not just gold, but PURE gold (vs 127).

But this time when I am reading it, I am focusing on the heart.

Think about all the aspects of your heart.

When you are excited...your heart is happy.

When you are scared...your heart races.

When you are sad...your heart hurts.

Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Proverbs 4:23

We know that David was a man after God's own heart.

When he sinned, which he did big time, just like us, he repented (as we should) and ran back to God, because He loved God and hated every wrong path (vs 104 and 128).

I believe this is because of his heart. When you love God and seek Him with all of your heart, you will hate sin.

In verse after verse in this chapter it is about the heart.

Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart. vs 2

I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws. vs 30

I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free. vs 32

I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise. vs 58

My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end. vs 112

I call with all my heart; answer me, O LORD, and I will obey your decrees. vs 145

Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart trembles at your word. vs 161

David doesn't seek God with his mind or his voice or even his eyes. Those can all be deceived. God knows our hearts, we can not hide that from Him.

David was desperate for God with his whole heart. He wasn't concerned about what he looked like on the outside or saying the right thing to impress man.

When he did seek God with his lips, it was only to recount all the laws that come from your (God's) mouth. (vs 13)

He was completely and totally focused on God, His Word and obedience.

"These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men. Isaiah 29:13

That is not what I want. I do not want my walk with the Lord to be out of routine and just simply what I do.

I want every day to be seeking God with all of my heart and chasing after Him with a passion and love that can not be described.

I am praying that God will continue to teach me how to do that.

Happy Birthday Alex

2008-01-26T15:53:00.000-06:00

Today my baby is six.

Thank you Alex for six years of wonderful.

Six years of imagination and laughter.

You keep me on my toes...never a dull moment.

Thank you for being so sweet.

Thank you for being so unpredictable.

Thank you for being so loud.

Thank you for being you.

I love you sweet boy.

Acts 2:42

2008-01-21T22:00:00.000-06:00

They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Acts 2:42-47

I love this passage because it is truly one of my favorite things to do in life.

The fellowship of the believers.

The Church.

Meeting together on a daily basis in one form or another and worshipping, fellowshipping, eating or praying.

I am so loving this sermon series on Ekklessia...the Church.

Of not just "doing church" or "going to church" but being the church.

I can tell you that after Jesus captured my heart, delving my whole heart, mind and soul into my church has drastically changed my life.

God wants all of us...not just part of us.

You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely? James 4:4-5

Envies intensely...the Holy Spirit will fight for us.

I love seeing how God wants it done...it doesn't mean that it is always easy.

That is why there is a fight.

It is not easy dying to oneself and carrying ones own cross (Luke 14:27)

But Jesus says it is necessary...a reasonable act as we learned in Romans 12...I love that.

Jesus also says that we are "one body, many parts" 1 Corinthians 12

We need each other.

I am reading Joshua Harris book Stop Dating the Church...love it.

He talks about the people who believe they can be Christians and never go to church.

I have heard this argument many times. They don't believe you have to fellowship or be connected with other believers.

That is disobedience.

He compares them to "good for nothing" bricks.

I love this...he says what is a brick made for? To help build a house. It is of no use for that brick to tell you that it is just as good a brick while it is kicking about on the ground as it would be in the house. It is a good-for-nothing brick.

So you rolling-stone Christians, I do not believe that you are answering your purpose. You are living contrary to the life which Christ would have you live, and you are much to blame for the injury you do.

I don't ever want to be a good-for-nothing brick.

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. Ephesians 2:19-21

Happy Birthday Sweet Sara

2008-01-20T12:20:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday!!!

How I love this face.

I could listen to you talk all day.

What a blessing it is to call you friend and watch you grow into a beautiful woman of God.

I love you!!!

Happy Birthday Cindy

2008-01-19T18:34:00.000-06:00

This is Cindy saying woo hoo...it's my birthday!!

I know she is also saying, why did she post that picture?...well it is the only one I have on my computer at home.

So there.

Happy Birthday Cindy.

Thank you for your friendship, for your laughter and your quirkiness that makes you Cindy and is the reason we love you.

Thank you for being there for me!!

I love you!!

Holy Huddles

2008-01-13T11:09:00.000-06:00

I am guilty of this.

God is convicting me of this.

How often do we stay in our own little comfortable groups of people that we know and love so well and not pay attention to the rest of the body?

We justify it by saying "I am doing so much, I don't have time".

We "meet" three to five people each week at church, but after saying "hi, my name is Kathryn", what do I truly do with it?

I think that if we do not know people well, we are afraid that it will be awkward.

I had the Birkenfelds over for dinner this week.

I did not know them very well.

It was not awkward, Brock put on costumes and ran around screaming with the boys while Megan and I had sweet conversation.

But I want to go even deeper than this.

It is easy to love the lovable.

But what about the people who are more broken then us? (because we are all broken, even if we don't admit it)

How much time do we spend with people who are desperately trying to figure out what a relationship with Jesus looks like?

How much time do we spend with people who are struggling with their walk with Jesus?

Do we really want to listen when people pour out their guts to us and then be there when they need help putting them back together?

What are we afraid of?

Are we afraid that if we invest in other peoples lives who are struggling, we may have to admit that we struggle too?

I know that I would much rather the world only see my smile and the good things.

I do not particularly care for the world to see my short comings.

It is not pleasant to admit that I struggle with fear and anxiety.

Yes, all those things that Jesus says do not do...I do them.

For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." Romans 8:15

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

I am asking Jesus to give me a heart like that...He is answering me and putting people in my path to do just that.

I am extremely challenged by the current sermon series.

You can listen to it at LHBC.

I am excited to see how our body responds.

To the good stuff and the bad stuff.

And it is not really bad stuff, it is only stuff that we are supposed to be doing and not doing and then feeling conviction about it.

Praise the Holy Spirit for conviction.

Thank You Jesus for moving in our lives when we respond.

Tim Hawkins on Church

2007-12-31T16:26:00.001-06:00

This guy is so funny.

His name is Tim Hawkins, he is a Christian comedian.

I was over at the Freeman's last night and Ken was watching him, so I went to his website at www.timhawkins.net to watch more.

Like I said...too funny!!!

He will be in The Woodlands February 14th at Stonebridge Church...hmmm

What is a Foundry?

2007-12-29T23:14:00.000-06:00

Totally random, I know.

But this was the question we were asking today...what is a foundry?

So I came home and Googled it...don't you love technology...and then further technology, I can answer everyone at once by blogging the answer.

Not yet...

I had the honor to watch Katy Fuller and David McAngus get married today.

Beautiful God-centered wedding.

They got married in Franklin and then the reception was in Calvert...at the Foundry.

So all day we are asking each other "what is a foundry"

We had many answers.

I believed that because it had the word "found" in it, it had something to do with the founding of the town...that was the intelligent answer.

Another answer was restraunt...and then tavern or pub.

We even thought it had something to do with the train, since three went by while we were there and we could watch them out the open back windows...so cool.

We were all wrong.

A foundry...for all those waiting...Michele, Nellie, Tim, Jenn Crouse, Nathaniel and Tara and Ashley Baldrige...my co-thinkers.

A foundry is a factory which produces metal castings from either ferrous or non-ferrous alloys. Metals are turned into parts by melting the metal into a liquid, pouring the metal in a mold, and then removing the mold material or casting. The most common metal alloys produced are aluminum and cast iron. However, other metals, such as steel, magnesium ,copper, tin, and zinc, can be processed.

And to think, those big old fashioned car hoods on the wall didn't give it away!!

Learn something new every day!!

Think Outside the Box

2007-12-22T19:22:00.001-06:00

Let us think outside the box.

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

Let us remember that Christmas is not about shopping or presents.

It is about the birth of Jesus, our Savior, who came to earth, put on skin, lived a sinless life and then died for us.

Thank You Jesus that You are the perfect gift!!

Persistance Pays

2007-12-18T08:39:00.000-06:00

Alex is nothing if not persistant.

Sometimes this does not seem so good...like when he tries to wear you down for something he wants...but today his persistance was very good.

Every morning we travel the same way to school and we come to a stop sign where a little boy about eleven years old is waiting for the bus.

One morning a couple of months ago, Alex being Alex waves at the little boy.

Michael being Michael says "don't wave at him, he is a stranger"

Keep on loving each other as brothers. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:1-2

Alex quickly says "The Bible says that we are supposed to love everyone, right momma"

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35

I said yes, and we had a discusssion on the difference between witnessing and talking to strangers.

When Alex waved at the little boy, he just stared at him.

This has gone on for several months.

Every morning at 7:30 we drive by him and Alex waves frantically at him and the boy would stare at him or look away.

I guess he was either embarrassed or too cool to wave back.

Until today.

We drive by...Alex waves and the boy WAVES BACK!!!

Alex was so excited...he waved at me momma!!!

Alex never gave up. Even when he would get upset or discouraged, the very next morning he would wave again.

We can learn something from that.

How often do we give up on something or someone after just a couple of tries. How often do we say "oh, he'll never wave at me."

How often do we let satan get a foothold and tell us that perseverance is not worth it.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3

I hope that as I am faced with situations and people that I will keep my eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfector of my faith and know that perseverance is worth it.

I hope that I know this race is worth a little heartache and discouragement...I hope that I will see the big picture...

I hope that I will remember that Jesus did not give up...He did not just take a couple of beatings and change His mind or decide that we are not worth it.

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

He persevered all the way to the grave and then rose victoriously.

Thank You Jesus and thank You that once again I learn such a valuable lesson from one of my children.

He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:2-4

Alvin and the Chipmunks Movie

2007-12-12T22:14:00.001-06:00

Just a few more days...I can not wait!!!

We have been walking around singing Boom Chicka Wah Wah for a week now.

I know this will be funny. And even if it is not, I still have Boom Chicka Wah Wah Chicka Wah Wah and to watch Alex do that is priceless!!

Seeing People Through God's Eyes

2007-12-10T14:59:00.001-06:00

I love seeing people through God's eyes.

When you do that, you see past the skin and into the heart.

On Sunday night I was having a conversation with two dear friends Kaylene and Kyle.

It was a conversation about kids of course.

We were talking about Kyle's daughters wearing skirts and being lady like, it then turned into all kids (since Kay and I have boys) disrobing in public...Alex has been known to do that.

Kyle said that if it were hers or Kay's they might not say anything because it might be "the culture" either black or hispanic...if Alex did it, they might.

Later I thought "wow, I don't even think of Kay as hispanic or Kyle as black...they are just people...my friends.

I don't even see it.

How sad that so many people do.

In another conversation with a girl at work, we started talking about inter racial relationships and she felt like each "kind" should stay with their own.

I was floored.

She said it was easier on the kids.

It led to a conversation about how we needed to be the generation to stop that and how God loves us all.

She didn't get it.

I started thinking about Kyle again and that if we didn't have inter racial relationships, we wouldn't have Peyton, Parker and Pearson.

Precious girls.

Then I thought about Parker's hair...I love her hair...I love to play with it when she sits on my lap in Cubbies, usually after she has colored all over herself with markers, in many different colors!!

Then I thought it feels just like Miranda Greene's hair...only Miranda's is blond... not brown.

God really did make us all the same!!!

A Day in Space

2007-12-10T10:52:00.000-06:00

This weekend was an exciting weekend for Michael and Daddy.

They went camping.

Not the kind of camping that I had to do with tents and bugs and poison ivy, but camping at NASA.

The scouts got to go and have an exciting adventure, inside mind you, and learn what it is like to be an astronaut.

He looks pretty good, doesn't he?

Look at that playground, they got to play in these and bungy cord and all kinds of great things.

I want one of these in our house...

Look at the determination on his face...he was serious about the flight simulation.

They got to spend the night and sleep in sleeping bags (or play in sleeping bags)...still inside...

So they had a blast, they got souveneir water rockets and this monkey that makes a horrific noise...thanks dad!!!

Alex was a little sad that he didn't get to go, but has decided that is where he wants to go for his birthday in January!!

But on the homefront Alex had a great time seeing his old buddy Kevin and his bride Lisa who came in for the Christmas play.

It was like old times when he yelled KEVIN and hugged on him and sat in his lap...only he is getting a little heavy for Kevin to carry for any length of time!!!

That seems like a lifetime ago...how young they both were...some things never change!!

Rearranging the Furniture

2007-12-06T08:19:00.000-06:00

I love to rearrange the furniture.

Ever since I was eighteen (almost twenty...ugh...years ago) in my first apartment, I have loved to rearrange furniture. Just about every couple of weeks I would rearrange the living room or a bedroom or something.

I loved sitting in the same chair in the same room but facing a different direction.

It really was a sickness.

I remember a few years ago in our old house, the boys room had a sliding glass door that looked out onto the backyard and all the neighborhood kids played in our yard because we had a swingset. I was moving the furniture around and one of the little boys asked Michael "is your mom moving furniture?" and Michael said "yeah, she does that a lot"

Wow.

I never really thought much about it until yesterday.

When I moved into the house I am in now at the first of the year, I was extremely blessed to be given new living room furniture by Cindy's brother.

It is a gorgeous leather couch and love seat recliners and a stone coffee table.

I couldn't move them if I tried. Literally, if you held a gun to my head and said "move" I would die because it ain't happening.

Same with the bedrooms, there really is no other way to rearrange the furniture.

But really I had not thought about it much until yesterday. Will and I were talking and the subject came up and I said "yeah it kills me, I can't believe I can't move the furniture"

Then the thought came into my head again last night and it was "no, I really am ok" I am at a point in my walk with the Lord that I don't need to move furniture.

God showed me that hole that was there that I thought I could fill by moving things around is gone.

Moving things and rearranging things does not fix them...it is only a bandaid...an escape if you will.

When God brings you to the point that you are addressing issues and allowing Him to work in you and heal you, then you do not need those distractions.

I found that moving things was a way to take my mind off of things in my life that needed to be fixed...not just moved.

This year has been a year of growth and healing.

A time for me to really look inside my self and see things that I didn't like...selfishness...fear...anxiety. It has been a time for God to show me how I handled these things before I knew him and how to handle them now.

I haven't done it all right...it hasn't been easy.

But it is good.

God is faithful and I am thankful.

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24

I Really Do Not Like The Mall

2007-11-29T20:49:00.001-06:00

I do not like the mall.

I do not even like the mall in the middle of summer when there is nobody in town.

December is a nightmare.

I went to the mall tonight.

I did not have my children with me so I thought this would be a breeze.

Wrong.

I really try to be smart. I try to plan ahead and park somewhere easy. This time I chose in front of Chuck E Cheese. Since I did not have my children, I knew I would not have to listen to "please mom, can we go".

The minute I get into the mall I get lost. It happens every time. Even when I think in my head, "turn right here, then left" I always get messed up because it is the opposite coming back out.

So this is stressful enough on a regular day to the mall.

Again it is December.

Not only do I have to try to remember which direction to go, I have to do it with all the people in the middle of the mall in those creations called kiosks, or mini stores.

These people are viscious. I had people who wanted to spray things on me, give me new ring tones and this one young guy with a french accent wanted to straighten my hair...in the mall.

I just PAID to get my hair curly again, I did not want it straightened.

All of this wouldn't have been so bad except for the fact that remember I have no sense of direction in the mall, so I had to wander back and forth several times to find the store I wanted, so I was approached by these people more than once...they didn't care, they jumped out and said "excuse me" every time I walked by.

But God is good and He does work everything together for the good of those who love Him because there is one beautiful place in the mall.

Chick-Fil-A

I went to Chick-Fil-A and I even had a coupon.

I love coupons.

I sat by myself and enjoyed my wonderful chicken and watched all the people go by, then for a moment everything was good again.

When I finished, I had to find my way out of the mall...enough said!!

A Whole New Spin on Oatmeal

2007-11-24T10:45:00.000-06:00

I love oatmeal. I love to eat it plain. I love oatmeal cookies...but this takes the oatmeal cake...

Baked Oatmeal!!!

I got the recipe off of Alanna's blog and tried it for myself.

It is so good that I had to post the recipe...I added chocolate chips to it, just because their chocolate.

You can add whatever you want. I bet peanut butter chips would be good or raisins or dried fruit...I like chocolate!!!

Here is the recipe:

1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs gently whisked
3 cups certified gluten-free oatmeal or flaked quinoa (I just used regular oatmeal)
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup milk

Mix all ingredients and put in a greased baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.

It is so good, your family will love it and it smells so good when it is baking!!!!

Psalm 34

2007-11-17T09:00:00.000-06:00

This is my very favorite Psalm.

It is my favorite because it so accurately describes my relationship with the Lord. It describes how when you seek the Lord He will answer you and deliver you from fear. (vs 4)

Verse 10 says that the lions may grow weak and hungry but those who seek the Lord lacks no good thing. We think of lions as ferocious animals, but we can be even stronger than that when we are seeking the Lord...incredible.

We are His children, when we come to Him and listen to Him, He will teach us. (vs 11)

I love verse 8 to taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. Once you have tasted the Lord you want more, you can't get enough. It is like a baby who tries something sweet to eat and keeps saying "more".

We may have troubles and struggles on this earth, but God is always with us, He is always protecting and guiding us...he protects all our bones, not one of them is broken. (vs 20)

1 I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. 2 My soul will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. 3 Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. 4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. 5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. 6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. 7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. 8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. 9 Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. 10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. 11 Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 12 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, 13 keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. 14 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. 15 The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry;
16 the face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to cut off the memory of them from the earth. 17 The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. 18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. 19 A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; 20 he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. 21 Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. 22 The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him. Psalm 34

Comments

2007-11-06T09:29:00.000-06:00

I love comments.

I love to make comments and I love to receive comments.

Chances are if you have a blog, I have commented on it.

If not, let me know and I will be glad to comment.

Kevin once called me "the best blog commenter ever".

I wear that title proudly...by the way Kevin, I commented on your blog that I went CAMPING OUTSIDE and didn't hear anything from you...are you ok?

The reason that I love comments so much is that it gives us a chance to share our hearts with each other. Even if we don't neccessarily agree or know each other that well...we can share.

We can also change the not knowing each other so well part by commenting.

Example, I have never really had a conversation with Mindi Greene, our newest blogger, but now that she is blogging and we are commenting, I feel like I know her better.

I love that it gives us a chance to say hi, I think your neat... or I miss you and I love you.

"Words of affirmation" is after all my love language...it is Michael's also.

Alex is touch...that is a whole other subject!!!

So many times we read other peoples blogs and like what they say and never comment. I have had people tell me "I read your blog", but I had no idea because you didn't comment!!

I say no more!!

I say if you read someone's blog, let them know. Just a simple "hi, I like your blog" will do.

You never know if that comment might be just what that person needs right at that moment.

Happy commenting!!

Do As I Say, Not As I Do

2007-11-02T07:24:00.001-06:00

We grew up hearing that all the time.

Perhaps nice to some in theory...but impossible in reality.

This impossibility is a good thing...hard but good.

But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete." Luke 6:49

'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men." Matthew 15:8-9

God wants us to be doers of the Word, not just sayers.

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22

I have been meditating on this a lot lately. I know that my children are watching me. They are doing what I say...but they are also doing what I do.

I notice this when I get anxious or fearful, Michael will immediately start asking questions.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

Or if I get upset about something and act out, they will respond to my behavior.

In your anger do not sin "Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:26-27

My children know that we are all sinners in need of a Savior, but as I grow, I want to be modeling that Savior every day.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God Romans 2:23

I am asking God to show me His heart and my heart and where they are lining up and where they are not.

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24

In a Bible study I am doing with my sweet Nellie there was an excerpt from the book It's Always Something written by the late Gilda Radner (and yes I had to explain to Nellie who Gilda Radner was, man I felt old!!!) It read like this:

When I was little, my nurse Dibby's cousin had a dog, just a mutt, and the dog was pregnant. I don't know how long dogs are pregnant, but she was due to have her puppies in about a week. She was out in the yard one day and got in the way of the lawn mower and her two hind legs got cut off. They rushed her to the vet and he said, "I can sew her up, or you can put her to sleep if you want, but the puppies are okay. She'll be able to deliver the puppies."
Dibby's cousin said, "keep her alive."

So the vet sewed up her backside, and over the next week the dog learned to walk by taking two steps in the front and flipping up her backside, and then taking two steps and flipping up her backside again. She gave birth to six little puppies, all in perfect health. She nursed them and then weaned them. And when they learned to walk, they all walked like her.

This sums up so perfectly that our children are watching us and doing as we do.

A lost and dying world should be watching us as Christians and doing what we do.

Are we living a life worth watching?

Flying Purple People Eater

2007-10-28T10:19:00.001-06:00

We have been singing this song a lot in our house.

I hope you enjoy it...now get up and dance!!!

Happy Anniversary To Me!!!

2007-10-19T16:49:00.000-05:00

Who Hoo!!!

Happy Anniversary to me.

I have been blogging for a year.

So much has happened in a year...

Precious friends have graduated and gotten married

Wonderful friendships with my girls have continued to flourish

God brought the boys daddy to College Station and brought him to salvation.

My baby started kindergarten

My bigger baby started third grade

It went by so fast...how does that happen?

So many times I will find myself saying "I will do that tomorrow" or "I will get to it soon" and then before I know it the time has gone.

That is because a lot of time I am trying to do it in my own power.

Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." James 4:14-15

Something I have learned is that there is time enough in each day to do what God wants you to do. I believe that is why He wants our first fruits.

Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. Proverbs 3:9-10

God doesn't just mean your money or food, all of those belong to Him anyway...He wants your time and devotion.

He wants you to put Him first and then everything else will fall into place.

Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. Psalm 145:2-3

I look forward to a year from now, God willing, looking back at all that God has done and the wonderful people He has chosen to put in my life to run this race with.

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. Acts 20:24

I Took A Ride With A Lizard Today

2007-10-16T21:51:00.000-05:00

I left work today and got in my car.

I started driving and I am singing away and I look down and on the hood of my car I see a lizzard, much like the lizzard that is pictured above.

She is staring at me...I felt like a Geico advertisement!

I am freaking out, there is a lizzard on the hood of my car, I am driving 40 mph and it is hanging on for dear life.

Lizzards are super natural creatures, if I was on the hood of a car going 40 mph, I would be in a ditch in no time.

This sucker held on tight, I would swerve a little...go a little faster it didn't budge...when I had to stop, it would get a little closer to my windshield...I did not like that.

I stopped at Wal Mart, certain that if I opened the door it would jump on my face. Fortunately it did not and I moved fast.

I came out of Wal Mart...Lizzy's still there.

I pick up the boys and they get in the car, I start for home and think "I am taking this lizzard home with me, am I crazy?"

We pull into the driveway, I tell the boys to have fun, just don't bring it in the house. They chased Lizzy all over the hood of the car squealing and laughing.

Finally Lizzy retreats to the inside of the hood...I don't blame her, Michael and Alex can be scary.

I wonder where she will be in the morning?

So Very Blessed

2007-10-01T23:02:00.000-05:00

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Romans 10:17

I look at the faces of these two beautiful boys and praise Jesus for how truly blessed we are. This past weekend has been the most heartbreaking, convicting and joyful time of my life.

I am still trying to process everything that I heard and saw as K.P. Yohannan shared his heart for missions. When in fact he was really sharing His heart for missions and the Gospel. You can see the video on Heathers blog...really go watch it.

If you want more, his book Revolution in World Missions is absolutely wonderful.

I wept as I listened to him speak of the millions of people who live in the slums of Bombay and literally eat one cup of rice a day and live and sleep amongst the sewage.

But what got me the most was when K.P. shared about the missionaries who came to live in that village. He told of how they started a church in the middle of the village and how people were getting saved and crammed into a room praising Jesus.

They are praising Jesus for who He is and that they will spend eternity with Him. They were not praising Him for what He would do for them or what they will get out of it.

The Gospel is not about us...it is about Jesus.

They know that their circumstances here on earth will not really change. They will continue to live where they do, eat one cup of rice a day and live in filth. Only now they will do it with Jesus...with joy...with hope.

He tells about these churches who only have two Bibles for hundreds of people. They tear the pages out, copy them and share with each other...I have five Bibles in my house alone.

We live in such abundance...in our homes...our food...our clothes...our attitudes.

These past two days have been such a wonderful time to share with the boys how blessed they are and about the children they saw during childrens chat who have nothing.

It really hit Michael at dinner tonight. He is eight now and eats adult size portions and then five minutes later is hungry.

When he had his food on his plate, I told him what he had there would probably feed one of those children for about a month. I could see the visual that he got from that by the look on his face.

We need to live with that visual in our minds all of the time. We need to live in the reality that millions of people die and go to hell every day because they have never heard of Jesus.

We need to be living desperate lives for Jesus...we need to stop living with the attitude of "they will know who He is by the way we live our lives" because if the Gospel isn't coming out of our mouths every day...they will not know.

But what does it say? "The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,"that is, the word of faith we are proclaiming: That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. Romans 10:8-10

Word Verification

2007-09-09T09:53:00.000-05:00

Am I the only one who has trouble with this?

Almost every time that I make a comment and have to do the word verification I can never get it right on the first time.

I have noticed a pattern.

The first word that they give me is long and cursive and squeezed together really tightly. It is impossible to get right because I don't know if it is p or a q that they want me to type.

Then when I don't get it right, the second word that they give me is four letters in block, bold letters.

They are mocking me.

They are testing my intelligence to see if I can get it right and when I don't they give me simple.

I need simple...I need it right from the start.

It is like life.

I need Someone to tell me this is what you do and how you do it.

Thank You God for your Word.

Thank You that it is simple and bold.

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.

James 1:5-8

I am thankful that when I need wisdom, God does not mock me. He tells me right from the start just to ask and He will give it to me when I ask in faith.

First Day of School

2007-08-27T22:42:00.001-05:00

First Day of School...First Day of School...ahh five more minutes...not you dad (mom)me!!!

Finding Nemo is one of our favorite movies and is quoted quite frequently in our house.

This is what was heard this morning.

It actually started last night at bedtime when I was talking to Michael and he said that he couldn't talk anymore or he would be too excited to sleep. It did take him a few minutes but then they were out.

They woke up on the first call this morning. They ate breakfast and had devotional. They got dressed and were ready to go.

Alex wanted to wear his "kindergarten shirt" which is his school shirt.

They were so cute and excited and Michael was the "big brother" telling Alex all about what they would do and reading the school menu to him.

We left with backpacks in hand and parked at the school.

Michael told me he could find his class himself, which is 3rd grade for "mom please don't walk me to my class and hug me and kiss me and embarrass me in front of my friends".

It hurt, but I respected him. I had hugged and kissed him to pieces at home because I had a feeling that was coming.

Alex on the other hand was very excited to show me to his kindergarten class. With his backpack strapped to his back, he began hiking down the hall with all the confidence in the world.

We walked in the class and he put his stuff away and began to realize that this was real. This was not something that we had just talked about all summer.

Alex really was in kindergarten.

My first reaction was to pick him up and take him home, his first reaction was to be a little scared.

Fortunately we overcame those reactions and he went into class.

I am so thankful that he has a little friend named Haley. Alex and Haley have been together since they were 18 months old. They started out at A Special Place and went all the way through Longmire Learning Center.

I had prayed that God would put at least one person in his class that he knew so that he would not be afraid.

God answered and put Haley in his class.

God always knows what we need.

When I picked them up, a good day was had by all.

They can not wait until tomorrow.

Needless to say they were both tired and had no problem going right to sleep!!!!

A Day at the Zoo

2007-08-26T20:54:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we got to go to the Waco Zoo. We got up at the crack of dawn, packed up the car and were at the zoo by 9:30 am.

We had so much fun.

We got our map and we were ready to explore.

I have never seen two boys so excited.

We saw all the animals. There were catfish that you could feed that were as big as Alex. They had machines that you put a quarter in and get fish food. These fish actually raise their heads up out of the water to get food.

Freaky.

We saw the otters and there was a slide that you go down through the otters. Well the kids do, Will and I wouldn't fit.

I loved the meerkats, they are so precious, I wanted to take one home. Not really, but they were pretty cute.

Michael had been to this zoo before, so he was our tour guide.

When we ate lunch, he said this is the fly exibit.

Alex was most excited about the reptiles. We spent forever with the snakes and lizzards and fish, but that was ok because it was air conditioned.

Alex had never seen the zoo before, so he was defininately exploring. Animals are his thing!!

There was one section with two teepee's. He walked in one and then came out. He walked in the other and when he came out he said "nope, no indians in there".

We saw the monkeys, the lions and the giraffes.

My favorite is the elephants. I love the elephants. They are so massive, yet so docile.

It is so hard to wrap my brain around the zoo. From the smallest of frogs to the giant elephant, God made them all so perfectly and each created with a specific purpose.

I just stand in awe at creation and in even more awe of our Creator.

God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:25

It is good.

And the zoo is good.

I will go back!!!

Change is Good

2007-08-21T09:04:00.000-05:00

Change is good.

My flesh does not like it.

But my Spirit knows that change must take place in order for God to grow me and mold me to be more like Him.

This summer has been a summer of change. A summer of revival and renewal and watching God move in big and mighty ways.

We still serve a miracle working God. Somehow we tend to put Him in a box. We believe the Bible and everything in it. We believe in the miracles that Jesus performed and that He is coming again one day, yet somehow we forget that in the year 2007, He is still ever present and performing life changing miracles.

"I the LORD do not change" Malachi 3:6

I am so thankful that the Lord does not change, but I am also thankful that He does call me to change.

Last night my Whitney came back. She sat on my couch and we laughed and we cried. We shared all of the amazing things God did this summer in both of us.

We shared how God is moving us forward to new places and that we can never be the same. He is stretching us and challenging us. He is asking us to do things that can only be accomplished through Him.

He is calling us to depend completely on Him and to trust Him only.

We know that this fall will look different (other than sitting on my couch on Monday nights discussing our beautiful Bible ladies!!)

God has new things in store for both of us with new ministries and new people.

There is a small part of me that wants to say "wait...stop...don't change", but thankfully our God is so big and so loving that I don't have to listen to that voice. I can listen to the voice that says "go...move...change...I've got your back"

Cute Pictures

2007-08-16T10:05:00.000-05:00

These are just some cute pictures of the boys...got to love those faces!

OH I CAN'T LOOK

IS THE TURTLE GONNA COME OUT?

CAN I KEEP IT PLEASE DADDY...

IT'S A KEEPER!!!

AND FINALLY...

WHO CAUGHT WHO?

Daily Devotionals

2007-08-15T08:50:00.000-05:00

It is so important to spend time each day with your children doing a devotional or Bible study. After reading Heather's blog, I am encouraged to share some of what I do with Michael and Alex.

I have written lots of devotionals using scripture and stories that apply to what is going on in our lives at the time and what God wants us to do.

I have posted some of them on Michael's blog. I have more, but will just do some at a time.

I am also doing the Proverbs and the Millers. It is a great book on applying the Proverbs to our lives.

Treasures in Heaven

2007-08-12T22:17:00.000-05:00

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

As I have said many times before, I learn some of my most valuable life lessons from my children.

One lesson Alex has taught me over and over again is Matthew 6. Not to store up our treasures on earth, but in Heaven.

Growing up we were always taught to take care of our things. To be careful not to break anything and if we did, we got in trouble.

So naturally I carried the same thought process into adulthood. I took very good care of my things and I had them for many years.

I never had a problem with this or thought much about it until I had Alex.

Michael was always a very gentle child and because I took care of my things, he also took care of his. You may think this is a good thing, but there is nothing good about a child being devastated over a broken toy.

Our children do watch us, they see what is important to us and how we react to it. Without even realizing it, I was teaching Michael that toys and knick knacks are important. Ugh!!!

Alex is the exact opposite. There is nothing gentle about him and he could break a toy and not even be phased by it.

He doesn't mean to be, but he is just a bull in a china shop.

When Alex was about two, God spoke to me very clearly. I had this beautiful green ceramic frog that I loved very much and I had had for a long time.

In one second, Alex dropped a sippy cup on it and it broke into pieces.

I was so upset.

I wasn't upset at Alex because I knew it was an accident. I was upset that the frog was broken.

God works everything together for the good of those who love Him and He showed me how much I loved my "treasures" and that they held no eternal value whatsoever.

He showed me the value of the "treasure" holding the sippy cup and his brother standing next to him saying "he did it".

These are treasures with eternal value that God has given me.

These are the children with a childlike faith that we saw present the Gospel tonight. These are the children that I don't ever want to do anything to hinder their relationship with Jesus and putting value in a knick knack will certainly do just that.

So as much as I like my "prettys", most of which are super glued or have parts taped together, I know they are just that...pretty.

They are replaceable or even better yet, I can live without them.

Thank You Lord for these life lessons and for the childlike faith you are growing in me daily!!

"I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:3-4

Blind Faith

2007-07-26T10:49:00.001-05:00

God speaks so mightily to me through my children.

He does it subtly at first so I don't realize it, then He hits me over the head..."Hello Kathryn, this is God and I am speaking to YOU"

This morning was a perfect example.

I had to register the boys for Kids Klub, the after school program, yes BOTH boys because my baby will be in kindergarten.

So I drop Alex off and Michael and I head over to Community Education off George Bush Drive.

Now every month when I pay the bill it is a big deal for Michael because we pull right up in front of the little building on Timber and he jumps out and puts the envelope in the slot. That is what he is used to...this is what he expects.

This morning was different because half of College Station was registering their kids at 7:30 in the morning. We had to park around the corner in front of the Barbara Bush Center.

We get out of the car and Michael is insisting that this is not right...we are not in the right place...I have made some horrible mistake and he doesn't know where he is. I really thought he was going to panic.

I kept telling him it is ok...we just had to park far away...I know where I am...don't worry.

He kept going on...

Finally I had to stop, get down in his face and say "Michael, I am the parent and you are the child. I know where I am going, you just need trust me, follow me and stop arguing".

Wham...2x4 right over the head!!

How many times had God said that to me.

He is the Father and I am the child. He knows where He is taking me, I just need to follow Him and stop arguing.

When we let go of the reigns and TOTALLY trust Him, He will take us exactly where we are supposed to go.

When we argue, He usually gets us to the same spot, only the ride is not nearly as fun!

Praise God for the ride of my life...

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

Brothers

2007-07-11T10:58:00.000-05:00

Two people who have a bond like no one else.

Two people who love each other no matter what.

Two people who will know each other all of their lives.

Two people who can fight like cats and dogs one minute and then laugh deep belly laughs the next.

Two people who love God and make me proud to be their mother every day.

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers
1 John 3:16

Prophesies and Lobsters

2007-07-04T22:41:00.001-05:00

Alex is prophetic.

He has aways been known for saying very off the wall, funny things.

This time it came true.

We were in Super Wal Mart today picking up a few things and one of the boys favorite things is to look at the lobsters.

So while I was shopping, Will and the boys were hanging out with the lobsters.

I finished up and went to meet them.

Will had a very strange look on his face.

He told me that while they were looking at the lobsters, Alex was talking to them and then he looked up at Will and said "I speak lobster".

Now Nemo is one of his favorite movies.

So Will asked him what the lobsters were saying.

Alex pointed to a lobster and said that that one said "I am going to fight".

Not even a minute later Will said that three lobsters started fighting.

He about fell over.

Alex was so proud.

Walk by Faith

2007-06-21T12:30:00.000-05:00

Save...

Protect...

Provide...

Guide...

Keep...

Deliver...

God has done all of these things and more for Will this week.

This has been a week that if Will was not saved would have been hell for him.

The truck Will had been driving had been taken away from him, but God did provide transportation for him from very generous members of our body.

Allen Duty and Aaron Hendrick went out of their way this week to help Will. What an awesome staff we have. I loved when Aaron said to Will "someone gave me a truck, the least I can do is let you borrow it".

I tell you we are living out Acts 4 every day.

At the time the truck was taken from Will charges were not pressed. I truly believe that was an act of God to get Will where he needed to be to hear God and for him to be in church on Sunday to get saved.

Had Will been arrested on Saturday...unsaved...I believe his eyes, ears and mind would have been completely closed to God.

Praise God Will is saved, Will is in God's Word and Will is producing fruit.

Will is a new creation, but he also has consequences to pay for previous sin.

"My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son."Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? Hebrews 12:5-7

When I shared this verse with Will he was very quiet. I think it was the first time he truly realized that he is a child of God and that God is his Daddy.

The consequences that Will has faced this week is that charges were made on the truck. But God has worked supernaturally this week to protect and guide and love on Will.

Will got a call on Tuesday from a detective, whom I will refer to as "angel" because that is what he has been. The detective told Will what was going on and told him exactly what he needed to do.

On Wednesday Will took the truck he was driving back to Aaron. Early that morning Will was reading about Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane and how Jesus prayed to God "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." Matthew 26:39

That is what Will prayed and for God to give him the strength to get through.

He continued to read about the persecution Jesus suffered and the beating and long walk he endured.

When Will returned the truck to Aaron, he offered him a ride, but Will wanted to walk to the City of College Station to turn himself in.

He said he felt God with him the whole time and his steps were actually light.

They did not have his warrant issued yet, so Will waited. I called him late that afternoon to find out what was going on. When I asked Will what he was doing, he simply replied "enjoying the sunshine".

It was getting close to five oclock and Will was not sure what to do. Detective "angel" appears at exactly the right moment to tell Will where to go in the morning and how to get everything done quickly.

When I told my boss what was going on, he GAVE me the money for Will's bond. He had just gotten the EXACT amount of money back as a rebate and he couldn't think of a better way to spend it.

When we went down this morning the bondsman was a MINISTER and every other word out of his mouth was JESUS!!! It was actually a good time.

Praise God everything is taken care of for now. Will can start his new job on Monday and have a company car.

Will is learning to face his battles head on and not run from them. He is learning to trust and obey.

Jehovah-Jireh...The Lord provides.

In His way and His time.

Not our way or our time...Praise God!!!