Anchored On The Rock

It's Here!

2009-04-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

Well, Easter is finally here. The holiday that all Christians eagerly await all year. Oh, we love the meaning of Christmas, but it is just the beginning. Easter is the observance of our Christian faith that reminds us that Christ has given us victory over death and sin through His Resurrection. I read each morning from "Our Daily Bread". It is published through RBC Ministries and every day I find spiritual truths that I need for that particular time in my life. I hope that I won't violate some law by posting here some of today's lesson, but I thought it was so relevant to the Saturday between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. So if I get in trouble, I am going to plead ignorance!

The Day With No Name

In Louisiana, a woman lies buried beneath a grove of 150-year-old oak trees in the cemetery of an Episcopal church. Only one word is carved on her tombstone: "Waiting."

A friend of mine knows an elderly pastor who delivered a stirring Good Friday sermon titled "It's Friday, but Sunday's Comin'." In a cadence that increases in tempo and volume, his sermon contrasts how the world looked on Friday - when the forces of evil seemed to have triumphed - with how it looked on Sunday. The disciples who lived through both days never doubted God again. They learned that when God seems most absent, He may be closest of all.

The sermon skips one day, though - Saturday - the day with no name. What the disciples lived through in small scale, we now live through on cosmic scale. It's Saturday on planet earth; will Sunday ever come?

That dark, Golgothan Friday can only be called good because of what happened on Sunday Easter opened up a crack in a universe winding down toward decay. And someday God will enlarge the miracle of Easter to cosmic scale.

Meanwhile, we wait in hopeful anticipation, living out our days on Saturday, the in-between day with no name.

it's Saturday. But Sunday's comin'. -- Phillip Yancey

Thought for the day: God took the worst deed of history and turned it into the greatest victory!

Happy, Happy Easter!!!!!!!!!!!!

Randomness.........................

2009-04-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I have blogged. I didn't realize how long until I started this post and saw the date. I have been on the computer in small spurts (Facebook and such) because with a broken foot, I do better with it up instead of in a sitting position. Hopefully, after this coming Friday and with a good report from the Dr. and x-rays, I will be able to take off the boot and get back to a somewhat normal existence!

In the last post, I reported that I was on a diet. I am still on a diet (as I have been most of my life!). Since I began on 1-1-09, I have lost 18 1/2 lbs. Because I have broken my foot, in the last 5 weeks I have been able to do no walking. That has limited my loss per week, but God is good and has allowed me to loose or maintain. I am on this diet with 2 friends who are prayer warriors - you know - people who promise to pray and you darn well know they're going to pray! We not only pray for one another but we also encourage and support one another. It is soooooo easy to get discouraged when you slip up and eat something that you shouldn't. Confessing to someone who is going through the same temptations you are and knows how you feel, is a great way to get back on track fast.

I finished up my Bible study of Daniel last week. WOW! How exciting this time around. I have studied Daniel in the past but not with the intensity as this past 12 weeks. I learned so much. In the past I have never really wanted to know what is going to take place in the last days. It didn't matter to me - I was saved - ready to go - knew He had a mansion prepared for me - couldn't wait. With this study I have learned much about His plan. How to reconcile Daniel and Revelation - that they go hand in hand. My mind has changed. I hunger to know more and am going to other sources to use along with His Word. Daniel lived a life of integrity. I want to be a Daniel. I want to live my life so that God can use me.

Well, spring has come and gone here in East Tennessee. Yesterday it was in the mid seventies - sandal weather. Today it is 36 and snowing - fuzzy sock weather. We have this beautiful red bud tree outside our living room window. I should have known when it went into full bloom, we were going to get a snow! That's the way April is - very unpredictable!

At the top of this post is a picture of my grandson Brandon and his fiance' Keyna. It was taken at their wedding shower yesterday. It was a fun time with family and friends. The ladies giving the shower had more than outdone themselves with food, food and more food (all the better to have fun with!). It was a perfect occasion to cheat on a diet!

Weight...Memory Verse....Study of Daniel...& More

2009-02-17T13:06:00.000-08:00

Much to talk about. Much to share. Since I am a couple of weeks out from my last blog, I am not sure what I should share first. About the weight thing - there's good news and then there's bad news. Since my last Dr's appointment the week of Thanksgiving I have lost 11 lbs. That's the good news. The bad news is - I am impatient. I do not want to wait for months to loose 25 lbs. I want it off in weeks. I know. Slow weight loss is lasting weight loss. Can't swear that is true. The last time I lost, I lost it over several months and I gained it back (within a few lbs). I think the truth has something to do with me and how I think about eating and changing my thought patterns that were instilled in me from the time I was small. Eat everything on your plate - EAT IT ALL! Clean your plate so the sun will shine tomorrow. There are children in Africa that would just love to have what you have on your plate - they are STARVING -EAT! Good Southern Mothers love to cook for their family, and more than that, they love to see their family eat, and eat, and eat.

Now - that has not worked for me. Everything I eat over what my body needs, turns to fat. Since I have gotten older, it is even more of a problem. It is a problem that I am coming to terms with - knowing the why of the problem is half the way to whipping it. In studying Daniel, the Lord again has shown me that self discipline is a must for our every day lives. That includes eating. Please continue to pray for me in this journey.

Again, I must say that the Bible Study of Daniel is awesome. We are now finishing up Chapter 5 and in studying each day I see how precious I am to God. In fact, He regards me as Holy. Because I am Holy to Him, I must treat myself as Holy. I must be set apart from this world. During Daniel's time the Israelites and their low regard for the temple and its furnishings, opened the door for their captivity. They had come to live too much in the world around them, deciding that it had more to offer than their God. The Israelites had ceased regarding the holy as holy. The same thing can happen to us. When we have a low regard for what God has called holy (Himself, followed by what belongs to Him), we open the door for captivity. I do not ever want to be captive to this world. God isn't looking for perfection. He's looking for purity of heart: our authentic desire to do His will and give Him glory and He wants us to regard ourselves as precious and holy. I love this statement that Beth made: "God will call your enemy, the devil, to account for every single time he treated you, God's holy child, as unholy." Yes! I can't wait!

Memory Verse for 2-15-09 I Cor. 2:9 "No eye hath seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him." ( NIV) I probably should have already memorized this one but better now then never!

Valentine's Day was good at our house. Hubby and I went to one of our favorite restaurants and points were NOT counted that night. Bodie and Chessy talked Dad into getting me some beautiful flowers (he wanted candy) that I am still enjoying. It was a good weekend and a great time to reflect over how fortunate we are to be where we are, doing what we are, and headed in the direction we are. We are truly blessed!

To quote another famous blogger - enough randomness! It's good to be back and I'll try not to stay away so long next time.

Some of the Things I am Learning..............

2009-01-30T08:59:00.000-08:00

As I may, or may not, have reported in blogging, I am taking a Beth Moore Bible study on Daniel - Lives of Integrity - Words of Prophecy. Each Wednesday morning I am blown away by this study. Each morning in my quiet time I am learning that the times of Daniel are exactly what we are living this very day. Some of the things I want to share with you this morning will not be my own original ideas. They will be Beth Moore's , but in sharing her thoughts I will share some of my own insight. The things I am learning are "for such a time as this" and have come at just the right time in my life and in the life of our nation. Here are some truths I have learned thus far:

Lives of Integrity - I want to be a person of integrity. I am afraid that we as Christians have allowed ourselves to get used to decaying morals and standards. This has been a slow and tactful advance in our lives - one put into action by satan - without our even realizing it. There are things that we see on television and on movie screens that should actually make us die from embarrassment yet we allow these things to pass right on by without recognizing them as satan inspired in order to chip away at our integrity. We can not get used to this. We as parents have the obligation to begin teaching our children when they are young what is acceptable and what is not. Whenever I am in any way subjected to ungodly language or behavior on television, I think of my two sweet little grandsons. Their Mommy and Daddy are setting the standard for learning and for what comes into their lives. We have been watching television together and when I have control of the remote(which is not often) they will give me specific instructions on what shows they are allowed to watch. Their Mommy and Daddy only allow them to watch appropriate shows - no violence - no bad language - shows that are morally good. Even when their parents are not with them, they are quick to let me know the shows they can and can not see. I commend my daughter and her husband. I thank God for their commitment to Jesus and what is right in His sight for their children. They are setting the example of integrity.

Humility - No one rich or poor, powerful or oppressed, healthy or infirm, enslaved or free, male or female, old or young, from east or west, of color or not, is exempt from the temptation to dangerous pride. One of Beth Moore greatest points, in my opinion, is the fact that some of our egos are swollen over what we do and others are swollen over what we don't do. It is sooooooo easy to get puffed up. We as Christians are not to be prideful. Worldly Christians are snared by things like power money, appearance, and position. Perhaps we are prideful over the good works that we do - helping the poor, giving to missions, taking food to the sick, singing moving solos in worship, teaching Sunday school after we have given of our time to study. Perhaps we are prideful over the things that we do not do -never drinking alcohol, not telling a lie, never missing a worship service, never gossiping, never loosing our temper, never using ungodly language, never being critical. We as Christians can not give into pride. It ruins our testimony, makes us unattractive to others, and in the end will cause us to be disappointing to God and disappointed in ourselves.

Prosperity - America enjoys prosperity. Most people want to be prosperous. The definition of prosperity is living in the lap of luxury. Having all the stuff we want and finding more stuff that we think we want! In today's study, Beth asks the question, "how important is our stuff?". What would happen if we lost everything? There are many in America that are experiencing that right now - some through no fault of their own. How would we react? Perhaps we are thinking of prosperity in the wrong way. Perhaps we should think of it as living in the luxurious lap of Jesus. Experiencing all the spiritual stuff he can supply us with and not all the worldly stuff we can supply ourselves with. We need to prosper ourselves with an abundance of Jesus. We need to live so that no earthly luxury will ever cheat us of true prosperity.

Contentedness - Curling up in my comfortable chair, covered by an afghan, Chessy, my dog, beside me, watching a chick flick, things going my way, safe and secure - that's my definition of contentedness! That is not all of it. One of the most difficult things I have had to learn in my 62 years is that being content is being happy within myself, which comes from the Lord. He has given me the freedom to be happy. He takes away the insecurities that cause us to doubt ourselves and fills us with the knowledge that we will never be happy until we completely surrender to Him and His will for our lives. He gives us the security that we so desperately crave. Nothing - not money, youth, relationships, beauty, professional status - can give us satisfaction and contentment within ourselves but Him.

I do not want to live my life by the Babylonian motto: "I am and there is none besides me". I do not want to think myself more important than others - I do not want to be puffed up and prideful. I do not want to be a modern daughter of Babylon. I want to live a life of integrity. I want to be humble. I want to be content because I am secure in Jesus. I want to be prosperous but prosperous in the things of Christ. This is my prayer.

I have written these things because they are the truths I am gleaning from this study. Maybe something I have said will be something someone needs to hear. There will be more to come in the weeks ahead and I can't wait to share!

Snow! Snow! Snow!

2009-01-19T08:23:00.000-08:00

It's finally here! The snow is here and it's a perfect day to blog! The logs are on, and it feels so nice to sit with my feet propped up and drink a cup of coffee and know that I can't get out. As I have said before, winter is definitely not my favorite time of year, but a day or two like this is great.

We were not able to go to church yesterday because of ice so this is the second day of staying inside. I know that my northern friends think that we down here in the south are wimps especially in light of what they have been through this winter, but using the weather for an excuse to do nothing except stay by the fire, sip hot chocolate and relax is okay at least for a little while. The forecast is for another day tomorrow like today. Maybe I will be able to go to my study on Daniel on Wednesday.

My memory verse for January 15 is Isaiah 41:10 - So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. NIV What a promise! I am so awed that He would love me so much that in spite of my disobedience and all my faults he assures me that He will always be with me, strengthen me and help me. The problem lies with me - I need to not fear - not be dismayed at all the junk that upsets me and that I have NO control over - and allow Him to strengthen me and help me.

In the study of Daniel, which I am just really getting started in, I am learning again about how God honors discipline and self control. At my last Dr appointment, Dr. McDavid shared with me that I was definitely on a downhill path. My cholesterol was high (299), my triglycerides were high, I am bordering on diabetic and my weight was up. At that point I decided that I must, whether I wanted to or not, loose weight and watch what I am eating. That would fall into the self control and self discipline. I have two friends who are in the same boat. We began on a new regime of diet and exercise on the 5th. On the 7th I began the study of Daniel. God truly is using the example of Daniel to show me how I am not to give into the temptation of eating. My friends and I pray for each other, encourage each other, and because of those prayers and encouragement feel the strength we need to overcome satans powerful influence. Oh yes, I almost forgot the most important part - I have, since the 5th, lost 5 pounds. That might not seem like much, but to me it is tremendous. By the first of May, when we go back to the campground, I hope to have several more pounds off. Please pray for me to be victorious in the weight loss, and faithful to exercise.

Saturday was Kaden's birthday (bethanne's baby boy), his 5th, and one of the Mommies there was my blogging buddy, LuAnn. She has lost 40 some pounds and looks so good! Her loss is also a great boost to my loosing morale. Each time I see her I am so proud of her and want to forge ahead with my own plight. LuAnn - thanks so much for your example. You are a real encouragement.

Guess I have rambled just about enough. This afternoon will be devoted to washing and the study of Daniel. Stay warm and dry!

It's A New Year!

2009-01-05T18:13:00.000-08:00

I am almost ashamed to post! It's been soooooooooo long and there have been times I could have put down some thoughts, but was just too lazy. It's been a busy few weeks and when I had down time I did just that - was down. I will confess, I have thought about giving up my blog (one friend did) but because I prayed for some months before I started blogging and because I really believe that the Lord led me into it, I will continue on - boring or not, spiritual or silly, funny or serious - whatever comes to mind.

Christmas was good here in Tennessee - family, friends, presents (more than any of us deserved) and warm weather! No snow for Christmas - unlike our Chicago friends! I have pictures and if I can get hubby to help me, we will post them soon.

If feels good to be on this side of Christmas. Those of you who know me really well know that Christmas is not my favorite time of the year. Sad things have happened in December and January in my life and I am better satisfied in the months of March to November. I will admit that time is flying by and I plan on staying busy until March comes.

Wednesday morning I am starting a Bible study on Daniel at our church. I have a quiet time each day and read my Bible, but I need an organized study to be accountable to. I have always wanted to go deeper into the book of Daniel, so I am really looking forward to it.

I am asking those of you who read this blog to please pray for a friend's daughter who is having a really hard time right now. The daughter has been a victim of identity theft and there is no way I can even begin to tell you the problems that this has brought to her life. Please pray for the Lord to intervene and stop this fraud against an innocent person. Her life has been taken over by this injustice and is effecting every aspect of her life - mentally, physically, financially. She has two children and a husband who is also being effected. Pray also that through this she and her family will be brought closer to the Lord.

Today hubby and I went to see Marley & me. I still have a headache from trying not to cry out loud! As most of you know, dogs are my weakness and I had read the book so I sort of knew how it was going to come out. Didn't matter - I still cried!

As I close tonight, I will not make any promises or resolutions, but I will make the statement that I hope to do better at being consistent in posting. Hope that's good enough!

A Few (I should say many) Thoughts From the South

2008-12-09T13:46:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine sent me a reminder of what my growing up world was all about and is still about somewhat because of where I live. I liked it so much I thought I would take the time and effort to post it on my blog. There are many of us women here in the South that can identify with much of the dialog below. Also, when you (me) are going through a sort-of dry blogging spell, funnies like SOUTHERN WOMEN fill the gap! (It's a little long but bear with it to the end) Greg P - this one is for you!

Southern women appreciate their natural assets:
Clean skin.
A winning smile.
That unforgettable Southern drawl.

Southern women know their manners:
"Yes, ma'am."
"Yes, sir".

Southern women have a distinct way with fond expressions:
"Y'all come back!"
"Well, bless your heart."
"Drop by when you can."
"How's your Momma?"

Southern women know their summer weather report:
Humidity
Humidity
Humidity

Southern women know their vacation spots:
The beach
The rivuh
The crik

Southern women know the joys of June, July and August:
Colorful high-heeled sandals
Strapless sun dresses
Iced sweet tea with mint

Southern women know every body's first name:
Honey
Darlin'
Shugah

Southern women know the movies that speak to their hearts:
Fried Green Tomatoes
Driving Miss Daisy
Steel Magnolias
Gone With The Wind

Southern women know their religions:
Baptist
Methodist
Football

Southern women know their country breakfasts:
Red-eye gravy
Grits
Eggs
Country Ham
Mouth-watering homemade biscuits with Momma's homemade jelly

Southern women know their cities dripping with Southern charm:
Chawl'stn
S'vanah
Foat Wuth
N'awlins
Addlanna

Southern women know their elegant gentlemen:
Men in uniform
Men in tuxedos
Rhett Butler

Southern women know their prime real estate:
The Mall
The Country Club
The Beauty Salon

Southern girls know the 3 deadly sins:
Having bad hair and nails
Having bad manners
Cooking bad food

Additional Suthen-ism's:

Only a Southerner knows the difference between a hissie fit and a conniption fit, and that you do not "HAVE' them, you 'PITCH' them.

Only a Southerner knows how many fish, collard greens, turnip greens, peas, beans, etc make up "a mess".

Only a Southerner can show or point out to you the general direction of "yonder".

Only a Southerner knows exactly how long "directly" is, as in "Going to town, be back directly".

All Southerners know exactly when "by and by" is. They might not use the term, but they know the concept well.

Only a Southerner knows instinctively that the best gesture of solace for a neighbor who's got trouble is a plate of hot fried chicken and a big bowl of cold potato salad. If the neighbor's trouble is a real crisis, they also know to add a large banana puddin!

Only Southerners grow up knowing the difference between "right near" and "a right far piece". They also know that "just down the road" can be 1 mile or 20.

Only a Southerner, both knows and understands, the difference between a redneck and a good ol' boy and Po white trash.

No true Southerner would ever assume that the car with the flashing turn signal is actually going to make a turn.

A Southerner knows that "fixin" can be used as a noun, a verb, or an adverb.

Only Southerners make friends while standing in lines,...And when we're "in line,"...We talk to everybody!

Put 100 Southerners in a room and half of them will discover they're related, even if only by marriage.

In the South, y'all is singular, all y'all is plural.

Southerners know grits come from corn and how to cook and eat them.

Every Southerner knows tomatoes with eggs, bacon, grits and coffee are perfectly wonderful; that red eye gravy is also a breakfast food; and that fried green tomatoes are not a breakfast food.

Only true Southerners say "sweet tea" and "sweet milk". Sweet tea indicates the need for sugar and LOTS of it - we do not like our tea unsweetened. "Sweet milk" means you do not want buttermilk.

And true Southerners know that you do not scream obscenities at little old ladies who drive 30 mph on the freeway. You just say "Bless her heart".......And go your own way.

To those of you who are still a little embarrassed by your Southerness: Take two tent revivals and a dose of sausage gravy and call me in the morning. Bless your heart!

And to those of you who are still having a hard time understanding all this Southern stuff,....Bless your hearts, I hear they are fixin' to have classes on Southerness as a second language!

And for those that are not from the South but have lived here for a long time, all y'all need a sign to hang on y'alls front porch that reads "I ain't from the South, but I got here as fast as I could".

Phone Torture

2008-12-03T16:56:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had someone call you on the phone and the absolutely whole time you are talking you feel like you are being dragged down, down, down? I just had a call like that a few moments ago and honestly by the time I got off the phone my frame of mind was mad, depressed, bitter and a few other feelings that I won't share at this point. I suppose that I have no one to blame in this but myself. Over and over again and again I have told myself that people that drag us down and make us feel like the opposites of the fruit of the spirit (love, joy, patience, faith, kindness, goodness, self-control, and peace) should be omitted from our daily lives. Now, having said that, let me say this - I have really tried to be helpful. IT IS NOT WORKING!!!!!!!!!!! This person is one of those people who asks for advice and never agrees with what you say - even when backed up with scripture. Each day they have a new crisis and their problems are of their very own making. I want to say, "can you not see what you are doing to your marriage, your children and yourself?". For some of you that are smarter than me, where do I go from here? Maybe I should let you know, this is not someone that I can completely cut out of my life. They are extended family............need I say more!

On to more pleasant subjects. Hubby and I made progress today with outside Christmas decorations. We officially have deer that are moving and lit and presents under a tree at our driveway entrance. Wreaths are at the doors with a snowman to greet you before you knock. I have done some of my shopping but have sworn to have it all done by week's end. Our tree is standing in wait for professional decorators Lake and Kaden. They are coming on Saturday to make our tree as special as theirs and also to make some Christmas cookies. Can't wait to have some Memaw time with two great little boys who are growing up too fast!

I am really trying this year to not wish this season away. I have been guilty these past few years of dreading all that has to be done. I know - my fault. I hope to slow my pace down and not put so much pressure on myself (and hubby) to get everything done and done perfectly. I truly want to enjoy December and focus on Jesus. I find that over the years I have dwelt on the manager more than I have on the cross at Christmas. It is impossible to separate the two. I think how sad God the Father must have been to send His Son knowing what He would have to go through for sinners such as I. I think how unselfish and full of love Jesus the Son was to be willing to suffer the pain and humiliation for someone like me. The manager was such a simple and humble beginning - the Cross a horrible and necessary sacrifice - the Resurrection a glorious and victorious triumph over evil and sin. Thank you Father God for sending your Son and thank you Lord Jesus for you willingness to come.

By the way - for those two of you who read my blog, don't worry about answering the question at the end of the first paragraph (where do I go from here?). The answer is simple - go to the One who really has all the answers.

It's Me.........Finally

2008-11-24T14:56:00.000-08:00

It only stands to reason that someone who likes to talk as much as I do should have posted on her blog at least once since October 25th. It has been a fast and furious month - one that I am glad is gone. Hubby and I have worked two weeks at the campground. Brought our camper home. Winterized it and covered it with this massive cover that required MUCH work to get on. I helped at church to get our ladies fall fashion show planned and worked the night of the event. In between I cleaned our house that had been terribly neglected for far too long, had Dr and Dentist appointments, made Christmas ornaments with Lake and Kaden one night to put on my tree and determined that time was flying before my eyes and that before I knew it, the cover will come off the camper and spring will be here! I look forward to that time but for right now I am content to sit inside and wait for the snow they are predicting tonight.

Our dogs, Bodie and Chessy, are so glad that we have finally settled down. Each time we would leave they would wait to see if they were going to get to ride in the car or if they were going to be waiting on the chair, looking out the window in order to alert the neighbors that Mom and Dad were home. Their favorite spots are laying on afghans beside us in our chairs. It takes so little to make them happy and they love unconditionally. Oh to be so easily pleased!

We are fast approaching my favorite holiday. Thanksgiving has always been the best time of the year to me. In fact, fall is and has always been my season. I love the colors, the smells, warm days and cool nights. Fall decorations are the best! My house, unlike some that I will not mention, is still in the fall decorating mode and will be until after Thursday. Thanksgiving deserves full recognition - not a blip on the holiday radar. Halloween gets more time than Thanksgiving and really deserves none (that's just my personal opinion)! Before long Thanksgiving will be squeezed out all together. It is truly a family time - not a present time - but, if observed correctly, a time for us to "Be Still & Know" from whom all our blessings flow and give Him the credit and thanks for all we have. I only hope my grandchildren will know what a precious time Thanksgiving can be when we place emphasis on the privileges we have as Christians and as Americans. Hubby and I are going to be with Lisa, Mitchell, Brandon, Kena, and Zack at their house on Thursday. My only contribution will be broccoli casserole and 4 chairs. I look forward to getting together with them, eating good food, and not having to clean up. That is the way it's supposed to be for guests, isn't it?

Well, enough chatter. I better go and see if it's snowing yet. I love snow until the 31st of December. That's when I begin to long for spring (even though spring hasn't showed up here in East Tennessee before May the past few years). I'm hoping that Mark Reynolds (our local weatherman) got it all wrong and instead of 1 to 2 inches in the mountains (that's me) we get 5 inches! Hope - Hope!

Off The Road & Back Home.......For a Little While

2008-10-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

Seems like I've been gone for a long time and it's really only been a week. My clothes are still in my travel bag. I see no sense in taking them out when we are leaving again by the weekend. My dogs are not sure just where they are going to be from day to day! Each time we get the bags out, they stand with a look on their faces like "do we get to go this time?" When we get in the vehicle and leave, they do not relax until we pass the kennel where they stay while we are gone.

Our trip to Charleston was short but good. Hubby is working on some pictures I hope to post soon. We crammed alot into a short time, but we had fun and wished we had more time. We will be going back and hopefully in the near future. Son's truck is on it's way to Hawaii (after some quick information recovery, thanks to bethanne) and will be there, according to the company shipping it, by November 19th. Please continue to pray for Kenneth, his transition to Hawaii and then an almost immediate transfer to Iraq for 6 months. Kenneth flies on a P3 Orion which, for those of you who are like me and do not know what that is, basically is used to hunt enemy subs but while in Iraq will be looking for terrorists. He has only 2 years until retirement and I am praying that the six months he is deployed will be so busy that it will pass quickly so that he can enjoy his time in Hawaii.

When we got home, we immediately went to the campground for a cook out with the other 3 campground host couples. What a great time! T-bone steaks, baked potatoes, salad, banana pudding, and German chocolate upside-down cake. All cooked and eaten outside. The campfire was huge, and the fellowship sweet. This is the first year since we have been working at the park that all the couples are Christians and, believe you me, it shows in the way that the office is run. There is a spirit of love and concern, not just for each other, but for the people we meet who have come to camp. Each couple working has had or are facing different problems, whether it be health related or family related or something in their life beyond their control. We pray for one another, encourage one another and look forward to seeing how the Lord is going to answer prayers in each other's lives. The park is beautiful this time of the year. The color is deep and the deer are plentiful. They do not have any fear of people and walk right up into the camp sights. The mornings and nights are crisp (30's) so a campfire feels great. I must admit, I do not look forward to pulling our camper home. Guess that will make next spring even sweeter to think about when the snow blows this winter.

Today is getting away from me. I have a bed to make, bible study to do (really to catch up - this is our last night), clothes to wash, my part of a ladies event to get together, a wrinkled outfit to get ready for Sunday (thanks LuAnn!), and most important of all - a beautiful fall day to enjoy!
Actually, I think I might just surprise my dogs and take them for a walk. They would love it and I NEED it.

Critters and Other Stuff

2008-10-14T07:46:00.001-07:00

Nothing much happening here in upper East Tennessee except beautiful fall weather and lots, and lots of LADY BUGS - yes, I said lady bugs and they are driving me CRAZY! In the early spring and in the fall we are overcome by lady bugs. Because we are adjacent to the Cherokee National Forest and because the hemlocks are endangered by a bug called the woolly adelgid (I think I spelled that right) and because the lady bug is the ONLY thing that eats the woolly adelgid, the National Forest Service releases millions and millions, did I say millions, I meant trillions of them from the air into our atmosphere. It would be no problem if they did the job they were released to do, but at this time of the year they seek warmth - that means the sun - the sun on my front porch each afternoon. If we did not have to open our doors now and again, I could see them from afar, but because we do ever so often have to go out, they fly in the door, thereby requiring me to suck them up in my vacuum. One other small bit of info - they STINK when they are challenged by man or vacuum and I have discovered, in a really big challenge, they bite! Now this little problem just began on last Friday and we probably are in for a couple of weeks of these pesky visitors. The only relief I can foresee is frost or rain. They do not like rain and the frost will kill them, but not before they have laid their eggs for next spring. It is a never ending battle. I think the Lord sent these pests so we will welcome winter instead of dread it. Oh yes, I failed to mention that I am not the only one that these little critters have chosen to visit. They are EVERYWHERE. There was even a segment on the news how this region is plagued by them - sort of like the locusts in the Bible. The only difference we don't have any people to let go!

Next problem - field mice. Thankfully, I have a courageous husband who does not mind emptying traps when they catch the mice that seek warmth in our garage. We not only live on mountain, we are surrounded by woods - thus field mice. Since I have no resident cat, they prefer my house to my neighbors who has 4 resident cats. My two dogs, yorkies (whose heritage is to seek out and kill rodents), are of no help. They have risen above working in this life, and would not know what to do with a mouse if they caught it.

Next problem - raccoons - big, fat raccoons that gorge on my sunflower seeds and suet. I love to feed the birds. We have a multitude of different birds that live in our woods - doves, cardinals, nuthatches, titmice, blue jays,wrens, finches and more. The raccoons and opossums raid the feeders at night. I put out new suet yesterday because it attracts woodpeckers and I love to watch them. This morning - suet all gone. No bird ate all that suet from late yesterday afternoon till this morning. Besides, my suet feeders were open and that is a sure sign that the culprit was bigger than a bird. No wonder the raccoons that I see when I take my dogs out before bed are fat - I'm feeding them lard!

After five years of living here on the mountain I guess I should be accustomed to sharing space with wildlife and bugs. The joys far outweigh the nuances. We are beginning to see, with the shedding of the leaves, the view of the mountains toward North Carolina and evening sunsets. Yesterday afternoon's sky was breathtaking with the pinks and reds. A good way to close out the day remembering that there is with the bad (bugs) also good. God is good! Thank you Lord Jesus for the privilege of living in this world you made.

I almost forgot - no more blogging for a few days. Hubby and I are off on a little adventure. His son, who is in the Navy has been in Japan for three years and is being stationed in Hawaii. We have his truck and are taking it to Charleston SC to be shipped by the Navy so he will have a vehicle when he arrives in Hawaii in December. He will leave for the middle east in January and will be there for six months. Please pray for our safety in travel goin to SC and Kenneth's safety in this transition and in his deployment. All this moving is a big deal - lots of paper work and planning. Believe me, he really needs your prayers at this time in his life.

Unbelievable.........

2008-10-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

It's absolutely unbelievable that I would post two days in a row! Something MUST be wrong with me! Actually, I have no great people to quote today and no real words of wisdom to utter; I am just so thankful for my life and my situation. This morning in the paper there was no encouraging words to be had. All doom and gloom. A killer convicted, landslide in Yosemite, corrupt executives, a child abandoned at medical facilities, economy still not even starting to recover, candidates at one another's throats, loss of benefits for workers, loss of jobs - all of these are a sign of the times. My situation is so good compared to many. My hope is not in this world or in our leaders. My hope is in Jesus and the anticipation of seeing Him one day.

This morning in my bible study, which this week is on gentleness, some of the scripture was in Acts and some in John. The lesson title is Gentle Giants - about Paul and Peter. As I read scripture that I have read hundreds of time before, I began to question whether I exhibit any gentleness in my life. Gentleness - a life surrendered to real power (Beth Moore's definition). I had never thought about gentleness being submission. I think I had always coupled gentleness with timidity. So gentleness means not being stubborn or pig-headed - not fighting God's will in my life - a life surrendered to the Highest Power. For me, stubborn as I am, pig-headed as I am, that is a tall order. I am so glad that God never, ever gives up on us. That means there is still hope for me!

While reading scripture about Paul, the lesson had us list some of the ways Paul had suffered for Christ's sake - beatings, jail, angry mobs, exhaustion, hunger, sleeplessness, stoning, pain, cold, thirst. I have suffered nothing for Christ. I have, we all have, real cushy lives compared to the Saints of the Bible. They did not live in fear of what was coming, they lived in anticipation. They wanted to suffer for Christ. Paul said, and I am paraphrasing, his suffering meant he was a partner in Christ's suffering all the way to death itself. Wow! I don't have a clue what real suffering is! Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not into wanting to suffer, but what will Christ be able to thank me for when I stand before Him. Since we live in a different time and age, I suppose the up-side-down crucifixion, stoning, and beatings don't apply, but the anticipation
of what is coming does. We never know when circumstances in our lives are going to change and we may be required to take a stand. If the wrong people (liberals) get elected to high positions, we may, as Christians, find ourselves persecuted even to the point Paul and Peter were for their beliefs. Will I meet the test? Will we as Christ's body meet the test? I pray that I will. I pray that we will. I pray that in our weakness we would find strength to be a partner in Christ's suffering all the way to death itself like Paul.

This may seem as though I am doom and gloom like the newspaper today, but the good news is that no matter how bad things seem or even get - we who know Christ and have Him living in us are going to be okay - in fact - better than okay. Nothing can destroy us. No one can destroy us. We have the hope of eternity in heaven with Jesus. We have anticipation of worshipping at His feet forever and I can't wait! Come quickly Lord Jesus!

Scriptural Answers To The "Whys" In Our Lives

2008-10-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

I know ..... it's been awhile. I could use the excuse that I have been away which I was last week. I could use the excuse that I have been really busy and I have - but not that busy. I could use the excuse that I have not been motivated and probably that excuse is the best one of all. Do you ever get in the mode of simply not knowing or wanting to blog? Some of us are not given to great randomness like bethanne, and when I don't know what to write, I don't write!

Last month an article was sent to me by email. I read it and copied it because I really didn't have my mind fully on it at the time. I thought I would come back to it and study it a little more and search out the scripture references when I was a little more with it! I laid it on my desk and this week I found it again. As I have studied it more the past couple of days, I realized how true the article is and how I needed to read this and keep it near for future reading. I want to share this with you. It may be a little lengthy, but maybe it will be thoughts that you need in your life at this particular time - much like I did at the time I refound (not sure that is a real word) it.

Scripture References:

Romans 8:17

2 Corinthians 12:9

1 Peter 4:12-13

Job 16

Romans 5:3-4

John 14:31

Colossians 1:24

Isaiah 45:9-11

Author: Elisabeth Elliot

Source: Keep A Quiet Heart

Ever Been Bitter?

Sometimes I've said, "O Lord, you wouldn't do this to me, would you? How could you, Lord?" I can recall such times later on and realize that my perspective was skewed. One scripture passage which helps me rectify it is Isaiah 45:9-11 (NEB): "Will the pot contend with the potter, or the earthenware with the hand that shapes it? Will the clay ask the potter what he is making? .... Thus says the Lord, would you dare question me concerning my children, or instruct me in my handiwork? I alone, I made the earth and created man upon it." He knows exactly what He is doing. I am the clay.

The word "humble" comes for the root word "humus, earth, clay." Let me remember that when I question God's dealings. I don't understand Him, but then I'M NOT ASKED TO UNDERSTAND, ONLY TO TRUST.

Bitterness dissolves when I remember the kind of love with which He has loved me--He gave Himself for me. He gave Himself for me. He gave Himself for me. He gave Himself for me. Whatever He is doing now, therefore, is NOT cause for bitterness. It has to be designed for good, because He loved me and gave Himself for me.

Is it a sin to ask God why?

It is always best to go first for answers to Jesus Himself. He cried out on the cross, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken Me?" It was a human cry, a cry of desperation, springing from His heart's agony at the prospect of being put into the hands of wicked men and actually becoming sin for you and me. We can never suffer anything like that, yet we at times feel forsaken and cry, Why, Lord?

The psalmist asked why. Job, a blameless man, suffering horrible torments on an ash heap, asked why. It does not seem to me to be sinful to ask the question.

What IS sinful is resentment against God and His dealings with us.

When we begin to doubt His love and imagine that He is cheating us of something we have a right to, we are guilty as Adam and Eve were guilty. They took the snake at his word rather than God. The same snake comes to us repeatedly with the same suggestions: Does God love you? Does He really want the best for you? Is His word trustworthy? Isn't He cheating you? Forget His promises. You'd be better off if you do it your way. Etc.

I have often asked why. Many things have happened which I didn't plan on and which human rationality could not explain. In the darkness of my perplexity and sorrow I have heard Him say quietly, Trust Me.

He knew that my question was not the challenge of unbelief or resentment. I have never doubted that He loves me, but I have sometimes felt like St. Teresa of Avila who, when she was dumped out of a carriage into a ditch said, "If this is the way You treat your friends, no wonder You have so few!" :-)

Job was not, it seems to me, a very patient man. But he never gave up his conviction that he was in God's hands. God was big enough to take whatever Job dished out (see Job 16 for a sample). Do not be afraid to tell Him exactly how you feel. (He already read your thoughts anyway). Don't tell the whole world. God can take it--others can't. (AMEN!!!)

Then listen for His answer. Six scriptural answers to the question WHY come from the scriptures listed above. There is mystery, but it is not all mystery. Here are clear reasons.

I hope that the above article spoke to someone's heart. I have been a fan of Elisabeth Elliott for many years and knowing the things that she has been through in her life make this article even more dear to me. As the person who sent this to me said, "if you have not been to this point in your life, you will. Save it. If you are there, this will encourage you".

A Psalm That Blesses

2008-09-25T08:53:00.000-07:00

I have been pondering over lots and lots of things recently, some I can share, some I can not and some I will share in later posts. As I told you in an earlier post, I am in a Beth Moore Bible study on Wednesday nights about the fruits of the spirit. So far I have learned that I have not been taking advantage of these fruits in my life - rather, I have not been allowing the Holy Spirit to work through me to use the gifts that the Father has given me - love, patience, joy, peace, kindness,etc. Well, I am working on that, but this morning I was reading in Psalms as I do each morning and I wanted to share with you Psalm 103 out of the Message which is the Bible in contemporary language. I know - some think that reading a version written in our everyday language is cheating, but I found this morning that the words I read were very uplifting and easy to apply to my every day life. Let David's words minister to you.

A David Psalm

O my soul, bless God,

From head to toe I'll bless his holy name!

O my soul, bless God,

don't forget a single blessing!

He forgives your sins - every one.

He heals your diseases - every one.

He redeems you from hell - saves your life!

He crowns you with love and mercy - a paradise crown.

He wraps you in goodness - beauty eternal.

He renews your youth - you're always young in his presence.

God makes everything come out right;

he puts victims back on their feet.

He showed Moses how he went about his work,

opened up his plans to all Israel.

God is sheer mercy and grace;

not easily angered, he's rich in love.

He doesn't endlessly nag and scold,

nor hold grudges forever.

He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve,

nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.

As high as heaven is over the earth,

so strong is his love to those who fear him.

And as far as sunrise is from sunset,

he has separated us from our sins.

As parents feel for their children,

God feels for those who fear him.

He know us inside and out,

keeps in mind that we are made of mud.

Men and women don't live very long;

like wildflowers they spring up and blossom,

But a storm snuffs them out just as quickly,

leaving nothing to show they were here.

God's love, though, is ever and always,

eternally present to all who fear him.

Making everything right for them and their children

as they follow his Covenant ways

and remember to do whatever he said.

God has set his throne in heaven;

he rules over us all. He's the King!

So bless God, you angels,

ready and able to fly at his bidding,

quick to hear and do what he says.

Bless God, all you armies of angels

alert to respond to whatever he wills.

Bless God, all creatures, wherever you are-

everything and everyone made by God.

And you, O my soul, bless God!

Promises Are Made To Be Broken?

2008-09-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

When I began this blog I promised myself that I would not neglect to post on it or I would not begin. Well, guess I have already blown that promise! This week has been one that I can not account for my time - other than the fact it has flown by in a hurry. I have been praying that the Lord would give me a hunger for His Word. I have found myself spending more and more time on the screened porch with coffee and His Word and with Him. I don't want to get going and do anything else. Each day I do my Beth Moore Bible study that I am doing on Wednesday nights and one scripture leads to another and before I know it, it's 11:00. Seeing how I was on the porch between 7:30 and 8:00, that is a pretty long time to put off other chores. So this afternoon I, patting myself on the back, did yard work with hubby and boy do I feel it now! I, because of my bicycle accident and the dizziness, had let some parts of the yard go. My job is to keep weeds pulled, spread mulch, feed birds (including hummingbirds), and hubbys job is to mow and weed eat. He has kept up his part, but mine has gone astray. Since it's fall and time for fall decorating, it's also time for weed cutting, hosta cutting back, pulling up and throwing away old flowers, spreading new mulch, fall flag hanging, and the planting of mums and pansies. Today was mulch and cutting back flowers and weed pulling day. I CAN'T MOVE! Unfortunately, I have to cook supper, but I wish I didn't! A little popcorn would do fine.

As most of you know, after my accident I had much dizziness. I had prayed about the healing of this most aggravating problem, but thinking back to what the Dr had told me, it was not uncommon that it may never be completely over. One day at church, a friend who works with these types of problems told bethanne that she thought she might be able to help me. Come to find out after testing I have Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV for short. The most common cause of BPPV in people under 50 is head injury (like bicycle wreck, hit the grill with your head injury). After my friend had me do some physical maneuvers and determined that I did indeed have BPPV, she had me do some exercises. She told me a few things to do for the next 48 hours and I did everything I could to follow her instructions - not look up, sleep on two pillows or in a recliner, try to keep my head vertical and try to do no exercise that requires head movement. IT WORKED at least for now. I have had no dizziness for the past week. That is not to say that it won't come back, but for now I'm encouraged. When I hit my head, it sent debris into my ear canal - thus the vertigo. God is sooooooooo good. I have known this friend for several years, but God knew that she would be able to help me with my dizziness before the beginning of time. Wow!

Next time I post maybe I'll have more interesting info. Mean time, I'm going to limp on in the kitchen and put supper on the table.

It's Time...............

2008-09-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

Herman & June Henson at Herman's Retirement Party On September 10. 2008.

I know! It's time I settled down and blogged a little. Last week I had a good excuse - working at the park. This week - no excuse except that catching up is hard to get done! We did not come home from the campground until Monday afternoon. It is very relaxing to sleep late after getting up early for seven days and sitting in your pj's and drink coffee. Last week was the most peaceful week we have spent this summer so far. The days were warm and the nights crisp. We had to run our heater almost every night (in the high 40's) b1ut it warmed up to the mid 70's during the day. Fall is definately in the air! My time of year!

On Wednesday of this week we went back to the park for a retirement lunch for Herman Henson. Hermon retired after 26 years of faithful service to the State of Tennessee. His main job was to collect the garbage in each campsite, at the picnic shelters, at the conference center, at the office, and anywhere along the way. Over the past four years working in the campground office, I have learned alot about dedication and responsibility from Hermon. I also learned that a conversation between friends did not necessarily have to be said with alot of words or any words at all. Herman does not get in a hurry nor does he waste words. In fact, Herman is a man of few words, but when he does talk, what he says means something. One morning when he came by the office, I told him good morning and asked him how he was. Maybe, two minutes passed and he told me he was just tickled to death to be here. Then two more minutes passed and he told me that when he stepped out on his porch that morning, he looked up in the sky and it looked like a morning that the Lord might come back and that he was ready! He finished that statement with a big smile. Herman witnessed that morning to me and anyone else that was standing or sitting on the office porch. I've had many conversations with Herman like that. Short and sweet - very sweet. Any time we can testify for the Lord it is sweet and the Lord honors that. I believe that Herman honored the Lord every day in his work and because of his dedication, the Lord has honored Herman. Never have I seen Herman that he did not take pride in his job. He never broke the speed limit, never missed a trash can, never failed to tie a knot in the trash bag, never failed to fit the lid on the can securely, and always took pride in what he did - to the point of cleaning up trash when people missed the can or the racoons had gotten in the cans at night. Herman does not have a Phd, is not wealthy, does not drive a BMW, doesn't know how to blog and probably is not known outside of Roan Mountain, Tennessee, but he is a man of honor and conviction and most importantly he knows the Lord and is waiting for His return. I am going to miss Herman. One day last week he came back and sat on the porch with me. He didn't say much and neither did I. We just hung out and rocked awhile. He didn't stay long - but long enough to let me know that old habits are hard to break and coming to the park was a part of his life for 26 years.

Just A Short Post

2008-08-30T19:29:00.000-07:00

It's late and I really need to get to bed to get up early for church tomorrow, but wanted to do a short post since I won't be back for a few days. Next week is our week at the campground and, as usual, I look forward to working and seeing the people at the park that have become my "other family". I honestly do not believe there are any sweeter and more caring people than those who live and work at the park in Roan Mountain. We start working on Monday, Labor Day, and by then all the holiday excitement will be over. The campers will be leaving out having had the last fling of the summer. From that time on it will be what I call "leaf peepers" mostly from Florida who come to see the beautiful fall colors in these Tennessee mountains. Maybe this year the color will be exceptional.

Hope your week is good and please pray for us to honor the Lord in all that we do.

Just Because I Indulged, I'm Tagged.........

2008-08-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

Somehow it doesn't seem fair that just because I read bethanne's blog, I'm tagged. Oh well, since I got great enjoyment out of reading her 7, or rather 8, strange characteristics I guess I can give it a try. Probably some of these strange characteristics have to do with her childhood and are a direct result of her Mother (aren't all our quirky habits because of our Mothers?). As I have written before, meme's and such are still strange things in their self since I am not a veteran blogger (I know, I have had them explained to me several times!). So here goes:

1. I do not like my food to touch on my plate. Things that have juice running out of them, like corn and beans, must not run together or I have to start all over again with a new plate. I have been known to sop-up (that's southern for wipe) the juice with a paper towel before everything runs together. It's probably an "only child" thing.

2. I do not like to have dirty clothes in the hamper. I am obsessed with seeing the bottom of the dirty clothes hamper. I have been known to take the clothes out of the hamper and put them into the washing machine until I can wash them so that I feel better and can see the bottom.

3. I can not tolerate small pieces of soap - I always want a new bar. Seeing how soap (Dove) is expensive, I do wait until I have used it down until I can't read Dove anymore, but nothing makes me any madder than for the bar to break up on my wash rag into little pieces. Unlike my Mother who used to save all the little pieces of soap and heat them so they made one big bar, I throw the pieces away. Sorry, Mother.

4. Another obsession - clean. I love clean - clean floors (no dust bunnies), clean windows, clean sinks (no spots), clean tubs. What is strange about that you ask? I love to be the one who does the cleaning. I will admit that I am not as bad as I used to be but I like nothing better than scrubbing and dusting. Now, those of you who do not share my enjoyment (or obsession) of cleaning let me tell you that it is great therapy. You have no idea how many problems that I have worked out, how many people I have told off, and how many great vacations in my mind I have taken while scouring the tub!

5. I twist my hair - there I've said it. Since before I can remember (according to my Mother) I have twisted my hair. In all these 60 some years why it hasn't fallen out, I do not know. It is one of the most soothing and relaxing habits one can have. If I am tired, I find myself twisting. If I am thoughtful, I find myself twisting. If I am nervous, I find myself twisting. The only time I do not twist my hair when needed is if I have taken the time to style it.

6. I am afraid of midgets! Hubby says that I am prejudiced - not so. I just have had nightmares of midgets all my life. Who knew? If I see one on TV, I ask him to please change channels so I don't have to see them. He usually obliges, but he likes to torment me before he does. Let me make myself perfectly clear, I in no way am speaking badly of midgets. It's something that I can't explain - probably out of my childhood (that and Motherhood are always to blame).

7. I only like red Popsicles. Can't stand yellow (banana), orange, but will tolerate grape. Also, do not give me any of those strange flavors like watermelon, blueberry or the like. I only want the cherry red ones and nothing can change my mind! My heart falls when I go to the fridge and find no red. Everyone in this house (that includes Bodie and Chessy) knows Mommy gets the cherry pops! That's just the way it is.

Finally - thought I would never pick out which of all my strange characteristics I wanted to share with the world (well, maybe with the three of you that read my blog!). What's that old saying, "confession is good for the soul"? Can't say I feel any different - maybe a little more strange since I've seen how I really am in black and white. Hopefully, my blogging friends will think no less of me after this!

Behind in Posting

2008-08-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

You would think that someone that is retired would have loads of time for posting on her blog. Not! It has been a week since I skated by with the pictures of Rn Mt and since that time we have been gone for a few days and I have no excuse for not posting on the days I have been home. Hubby and I went to Santeetlah Lake in Robbinsville, NC with his brother Tom and wife Chris. The days there were great, the fellowship was fun as always, and one of the best parts was a killer Rook game where my sister-in-law and I beat hubby and brother-in-law like a drum! Yes! I am already preparing for the payback that will come in time. There is one thing I have learned about my brother-in-law Tom, it may take awhile but there will be a payback.

The Lord has answered our prayers and it rained yesterday and all day today. Thank you Father for honoring our prayers. Our yard has been so dry and daily I have to fill the bird baths. Some of my flowers have simply dried up since we have not been home to water them. I am looking forward to fall since that is my favorite time of the year. I love to decorate my house inside and out with fall flowers, pumpkins and leaves. The cool mornings and nights and the changing colors of the trees remind me how fortunate we are to live in an area that enjoys all the seasons.

For the first time ever we had a sitter with our dogs while we were gone to the Lake. Granddaughter Anna stayed here and lovingly baby sat (and they are my babies) my boys. In fact, when I first got Bodie I would take him every day on my way to work for Anna to keep him and pick him up on my way home. Sometimes I thought he loved her better than me. Now he loves hubby better than me! Some day when I get them posed just right, I'll post a picture of them. They are so funny! They have their own personalities and their own little habits. Thankfully, Anna knows that and took very good care of them and our house. Thanks Anna. You did a great job!

There have been so many things that the Lord has been speaking to me about over the past couple of weeks. I started a new bible study at church last Wednesday (led by bethanne, in the flesh) written by Beth Moore. It has taken me all over the bible and reacquainted me with many scriptures - many that I needed to be reacquainted with! For some reason (that reason being the Holy Spirit) I am seeing some of these scriptures in a different light. I have spent this day catching up on the first week of the study. I really needed some quiet, alone time with the Lord - just soaking up what He wanted to say to me. It was good - God is good!

I have been thinking alot lately about all the trials that are being faced by God's people that I know and know of. Each day I receive emails that ask me to pray for the problems that others are facing. Some of the problems are satan centered. In bible study today, Beth Moore made a statement about the Holy Spirit that really spoke to me. "If He had energy enough to speak the worlds into being according to the Father's will and the Son's Word, he has the energy to carry you through your burden. You've got the Father's will and the Son's Word on it. When we walk in the Spirit, it is he who carries the weights." Thank you Beth Moore for reminding me of that! Christians have that assurance, and when we are privileged enough to be asked to pray for the problems others are having, what a great word to give them.

Enough................More "stuff" another day!

Roan Mountain Pictures

2008-08-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

For the first time ever, I am trying to post pictures that I have taken. What a task! With a little help from bethanne and some from hubby, maybe I'll be able to show my blogger friends where we spend one week out of each month from May to November. Roan Mountain was a favorite place of mine to visit even before we became campground hosts and still is.

Campground Office & Check-in Station

Home away from home

View down the mountain from our camper

Great picnic spot (also the site of the famous bicycle accident)

Maybe I had better stop while I'm ahead. I still have much to learn and learning will come by doing. Stay tuned for more camping pictures, family get togethers and various "stuff".

Two Weeks of Catching Up...............

2008-08-15T12:27:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that two weeks have passed since I posted anything on this blog. On the 3rd of August we went for our monthly week at the mountain and I didn't come home until this past Wednesday. The week working was great - the weather was perfect - mid 80's with no humidity and in the high 40's at night. A few of the mornings we ran our little heater. The campground was full of wonderful people from all over the United States. Many were from more southern states than Tennessee and you can always tell who they are because they wear sweat shirts and long pants! A couple of the mornings, as I took my dogs out, I could see my breath. The next week we go will be the 1st of September and by then I'm sure we will be using the heater each night. I love fall camping!

Our hours in the office are from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (great hours that do not interfere with the gift the Lord has given me in retirement - morning sleep). Almost every morning, vehicles were waiting in line to get a camping spot. It is not that we did not have any available for them to get right then. It's that they like certain spots and they come prepared to wait for them. This week we had no disputes over choice spots - in fact, the line seemed to take care of itself which made our job easier.

As I do the chores that hosts are expected to do, I have no choice but to listen to the conversations on the porch. The office porch is equipped with rocking chairs, tables with checkers and checker boards (soon I will have pictures of where we work and of our campsite - HELP bethanne!). Most of the time it is idle chit-chat, but then sometimes it goes deeper than that. In the four years we have been hosting, I have found that many of the people that I meet have hurts and they want to talk. My office job is not hard (else I could not do it!), and I have found that many times it is more important that I listen and offer a sympathetic ear than busy myself with desk work.

Many people have come to me and asked me how I am recovering from my bicycle accident. What an opportunity to tell them about how the Lord was in control and how He watched out after me. I had no idea how many people from all over were praying for me to get better. People who were in the park the day it happened have come back and said they began praying the minute they heard the sirens and had no idea who it was that was hurt. Park staff who were working in the office that day and watched the Wings helicopter lift off taking me to the hospital told me they were praying that very moment for my healing. I am so happy to tell them that I felt their prayers and that He answered them. My accident has opened more doors for witnessing than I ever imagined possible. The Lord takes disastrous situations and turns them into glorious opportunities.

As we finished our week, I began to make my prayer list for the upcoming week. I thought about the security guard whose daughter has had surgery for a tumor behind her ear and how worried and fearful he is. As he shared his concern with me, it was so good to be able to say, "God is in control. Don't worry". I thought about the frequent camper couple who came again this past week - her hair a fourth of an inch long on her head and how grateful she was that the Lord had brought her through her cancer treatments and that she was able to come camping again, but not knowing about the future. "God is control. Don't worry". About the acting park superintendent who has many, many responsibilities resting on his shoulders but shared with us that in his life God was first, family second and the job was third. He still needs my prayers, but he's got it right! The friend who shared with me that her daughter-in-law wants a divorce from her son, and how hurt and worried she is, not only for her son but for her grandchildren. Again, God is in control - don't worry. Park staff, who are in fear of loosing their jobs because of economic cut-backs and they have no idea who it will be. "God is in control. Don't worry". On and on and on............................

The Lord has placed us at Roan Mountain State park for a reason - if only to help me see that God can use me to minister to others no matter what is happening in my own life. Today in my daily bible study I was reading Acts 28:1-10. Paul was stuck on the island of Malta as a prisoner, and even in the worst of circumstances he chose to contribute to the work and needs of his fellowmen. Roan Mt is not an island in the ocean. I am not a prisoner nor are my circumstances dire, but I can contribute to the needs of those around me by doing what I can and allowing Him to use my efforts to further His plan. God never puts us in the wrong place to serve Him.

My Thinking the Past Few Days

2008-07-31T08:48:00.000-07:00

I guess you could call this randomness or musings, but in a way my thoughts these past few days have been deeper than random and more serious that muse. As you that read my blog know, I have not posted in several days (I need to check bethanne's blog to see just how long!). I wish I could tell you that it's because I have been very, very busy, but that is not the truth. It seems that I have had too many thoughts about too many issues that I simply could not make myself sit down and put those thoughts in black and white. Today I have purposed in my heart to relate to my blogging buddies (if there are any left) some of these thoughts that have been rolling around in my mind and heart.

Why is it that people who have been hurt or done wrong and that claim to love the Lord and say that they are Christians, stay bitter and spiteful? Where in God's word does it tell us that we are NEVER, EVER going to have to face the stark realities of this sinful life? Why do hurting people strike out at those who hurt them? In my extended family this situation has arisen. It has been several years and instead of getting over it, the hurt one has publicly tried to ruin the career of the one they feel has hurt them. In this instance, time is not a healer. Because of this bitterness, innocent people are being hurt. Because of this spitefulness, a career may be lost and the real hard part of this to accept is that there have been many embellishments and lies told and at this point outsiders can not distinguish between fact and lies. My heart is heavy because all the parties here, hurtee and hurter, claim to be Christians and yet to those watching this play out in the press, they are no different than the rest of the world. Another thing that really bothers me is what my take on this is - I want to jump right in there and let the one hurt have it - tell them to get over it and get a life instead of living every minute of every waking day to get revenge. I want to tell them what I think of them -really think of them! And then I realize that my attitude is really no different from theirs - sinful - not Godly. So, I am back at square one. He tells me in His Word - Pray for them and finally and most importantly pray for myself - that my heart would not be hard but tender and compassionate and that through all this controversy that in the end God would somehow be glorified.

Weight - Big Problem. The Dr's office called this week to let me know that after my check-up last week that my cholesterol is 299 - way too much. The Dr wants me to reschedule an appointment for three months and get off the fifteen pounds that I have gained since my last check-up (that's the 15 lbs that Luann lost!). He let me know that only through diet (ugh) and exercise (ugh, ugh) could that happen. If I have gotten my cholesterol down in three months I will have to go on medication - not! I will not go on medication so I will have to get down to business. Weight depresses me. I know - we are to love ourselves for who we are not what we look like or what size we wear. Sorry. It's a woman thing and starting today I am back on weight watchers without the meetings. I covet your prayers. I can not do it without prayer and I thank you in advance - in fact, if you could set your alarm for the beginning of each hour and just say a sentence prayer that would work!

I am sick to death of politics! Obama, McCain, local elections, choice of a Veep and this is going to go on until November. As I have told you, hubby and moved to this county after we retired from a county where I grew up. I knew everyone that was running or at least knew someone who knew them. Here, I know absolutely no one. Now that means I will need to depend on the leading of the Holy Spirit to help me push the buttons.

I have been upset with myself because I have neglected my blog. My thinking has been that I need to really have a bunch of "stuff" to share -not! In reading other blogs, I have found some of the most meaningful and thoughtful are the short ones (sorry, bethanne, no offense). Some share a scripture that spoke to their heart, others share daily experiences, others prayer requests. Also, some of my favorite ones, take the time to have photos and I have put off getting that down pat. It is something that I promised myself I would do and have not. Hopefully, I will change that in the near future.

Let's see..................can I think of anything else - no, that would make this post a bunch of "stuff"!

It's Been An Interesting 20 Days!

2008-07-27T10:23:00.000-07:00

I feel like this has been the longest yet the shortest month I have ever spent! Many of you know that hubby's son and granddaughter have been here visiting from Japan. Wow! What a change in our lives! I did not realize how set in my ways I really am. Having a teenager in the house certainly showed us that we are out in "grandparent space" and didn't even know it. As small children grow, parents are eased into the teenage era. The Lord equips you by slowly easing you into the teen years. With periodic visits, you get the "just jump right on in" cold water shock! Hubby and I learned soon on in the visit that times have changed!

Even though I have teenage grandchildren, living 24/7 with a 17 year old is a different set of circumstances. I have become knowledgeable about text messaging, power drinks, hair straighteners, ipods, American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch, Pac Sun, baggy shorts, tank tops, BIG sunglasses, LITTLE sunglasses, no pocketbooks (pocketbooks are a sign of insecurity), flip flops, flip flops, flip flops, oh yes, did I mention test messaging? Did you know that teenagers thumbs are not only flexible but fast? They also know an entirely different language - one that has one letter words like r for are and u for you. Amazing!

In these twenty days I have again come to realize that time is passing very quickly. It seems like just a few days ago that the same issues that we dealt with as parents, our children are dealing with today in regard to our grandchildren. How any parent can deal with their children without the help of the Lord, I do not know. Over the past couple of weeks, we have had several family get togethers. I hope to be able to post some of the pictures we took (when bethanne gets back from her whirlwind vacation) so you can see what an absolutely wonderful family I have!

Last week, when the house became too crowded and noisy, I went to the camper at the mountain by myself to spend a couple of nights (actually, just one). I loved reading, studying and spending time with dogs, Bodie and Chessy. The campground does not really begin to fill up until the later part of the week. This was on a Tuesday, so we were by ourselves on our circle of the mountain. There is no TV reception and most of the time no cell phone coverage so when I say quiet, I mean quiet - a perfect time for me to be very still and listen. I am afraid with all the busyness going on here at the house, I have not been as faithful to read and study and listen - especially listen to what the Holy Spirit has to say to me. Not good. When I neglect my time alone with Him, I do not deal well with every day circumstances. A lesson learned a long time ago and how easily I forget!

My heart is sort-of sad today. My bethanne, her hubs, Lake and Kaden are on their way to Disney. I'm not sad because they are getting to go, but I am sad that they will be so far away. I know that they really need this time to get away from all the responsibilities of building their dream house, but I already miss them. I may not see them every single day, but I know I can if I want - now I want and can't! When my girls were small, I always felt good when they were tucked in their beds at night. If they were at a friends house or at their grandparents house for the night, it did not feel right that they were not in their beds close to me. Now, it does not seem right if they and their families are not at their own houses at night. With Anna and Zach off on mission trips, at night I would pray that the Lord would keep them safe and I pray that same prayer for bethanne and family these next ten days. Can't help it - wish it were time for them to come back!

Lazy - That's Me!

2008-07-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Not really - but today I am totally alone in the house with the exception of baby dogs, Bodie and Chessie and I have found every excuse in the world not to do the chores I had promised to do. Hubby and son are on their way to visit my brother-in -law and will not be back until tomorrow. How great! I told myself that I would be able to get all the things that I have put off for a couple of weeks done today. Not! I have just loved being on the computer, sitting on the porch with a cup of coffee, walking in the yard, reading the book of James, talking with the Lord, closing my eyes and listening to the birds and squirrels, watching the hummingbirds, feeling the breeze, and just totally relaxing. Not very productive, but very fulfilling! There are times when I love to be alone, and yet I am never alone. When it is quiet, the Holy Spirit has many things to say to me and today it was through the book of James.

There were several truths in James that popped out at me this morning. They have been there for thousands of years, but only today spoke to me. The question "does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it?" followed by "isn't it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?" really got me to thinking. In other words - talk the talk and walk the walk. A great lesson for me! God expects me to be obedient. I can not say one thing and do another. My witness will be tarnished. I do not want that. God does not want anything to stain my witness. If I really love others as myself, then I will love the "rich" others just like the "poor" others and the "sweet" others as well as the "sour" others. It is so easy to love those who are kind to us, and just as easy to feel hard toward those are hateful to us. Lesson #1 for me this morning.

Do I want to be considered wise (Godly wisdom)? Mean-spirited wisdom is not wisdom. Saying you are wise is not wisdom. Twisting the truth to make yourself sound wise isn't wisdom. The Message says that is devilish conniving. Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and characterized by getting along with others. Real wisdom is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. To be considered wise, I must live a holy life and get along with others. If not, my witness will be tarnished. I do not want that. Again, God does not want anything to stain my witness. Lesson #2 for me this morning.

Remember my post yesterday about people at the campground wanting their own way and that sometimes I am also guilty of that sin. Today, James expounded on that very subject. If all I want is to have my own way, I will end up an enemy of God and His way. Proverbs says that "God is a fiercely jealous lover". What he gives in love is far better that anything else I'll ever find. As James reminds me "God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble. I very much desire humility. To be considered humble, I must die to self. If not, my witness will be tarnished. I do not want that. God does not want anything to stain my witness. Lesson #3 for me this morning.

One of the greatest statements that I read in James was "The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with". Wow! If I want my prayers to be powerful and effective then I must be living right with God. I very much want to be a powerful Prayer Warrior; therefore God and I must be of one accord. There must be nothing between us and my witness must be untarnished. I WANT THAT. God wants a stain-free witness. Lesson #4 for me this morning.

I really learned more than 4 lessons out of James, but thought maybe the others could be another post. How good to know that when we are troubled, or down-in-the-dumps, we have His Word to lift us up. We just have to be willing to read and absorb it.

Guess I've put off the chores as long as I can. Having spent time in His Word will definitely make housework a lot more pleasant!

It's Been Awhile................

2008-07-17T13:48:00.000-07:00

I can not believe that I have not blogged since July 3rd. Just to let the one or two who faithfully leave me comments, I am alive and well! It has been a busy two weeks. As I have said on more than one occasion, I am perfectly satisfied with my life being simple and, by most people's standards, boring. When I talk to my children and they tell me all the things they have done in one day, I am reminded of my former wife, Mother, and court clerk life. I miss the Mother part, but do not think I will ever want to go back into the work place full time. There may come a time when that is necessary, but I sure hope not.

The week of the 7th was our week to be campground host at Roan Mountain . It was a full week and a full campground most every night. We were again able to make some new friends and see some friends we had not seen since last year. My hubby and I have been camping at Roan Mountain since 1982. We started out with a six man tent when the children were small. What a job it was to pack everything up! We kept our camping "junk" in one place in the basement and then there was all the extras we had to take (water, etc) for six of us. It took me a week to assemble everything and then hubby would pack it in the truck and off we would go, bicycles and all. Wow! I look back now and see how much more energy I had then. The tent area is a beautiful place on the Doe River and hubby and I felt free to let the children ride their bikes and go the playground without worry, because the park is a safe enviroment - it was then and it is now. I hope that our children have good memories of those times that will stay with them forever.

One of the hardest jobs we face while working at the campground is early morning waiting line. This is the time that knowing the Lord Jesus really comes into use! People will line up when the gate opens (even before) to get THE camping spot that they want. The most sought after spots are on level ground when you first come into the campground and believe me, people will fight to get the one they like. Most people are willing to compromise, but there are a few who will stand firm (and I do mean firm). It is then that we are able to let them see that a soft answer turns away wrath. Kindness, a caring spirit, a smile, and most of all, love - the love that only comes from knowing Jesus. IT IS NOT EASY! Trust me! They say some very ugly things and they only want their way. They aren't interested in rules and procedures. They want their way and they want it now. I have to remember how like that I am at times. I want my way. I'm not interested in God's rules and procedures, and I'm not easy to deal with. It's at that point that the Holy Spirit's still small voice reminds me of God's everlasting patience with me and that He expects that same patience from me with others.

On the 8th, son Kenneth and grandaughter Courtney came home from Japan for a visit. It was so good to see them and Courtney has grown into a lovely young lady. It has been good to visit and spend time learning the Japanese culture. Lots of different ways and I mean different. I can not believe that he has been in the Navy 18 years. It seems that it was only yesterday that hubby, bethanne and I left him in Knoxville to go to basic training. He was so young (18), had never really been anywhere, and was about to embark on a life changing experience. I was scared for him, but by his own admission, it was the best thing that ever happened to him.

I have just learned that the daughter of one of my friends has drowned. She lived in the other end of the state and was found last night. This will be a devasting blow for my friend who has had many demons to fight in her life - divorce, alcoholism, poverty and also a questioning spirit. She has not been able to quit blaming God for the circumstances in her life. Her constant question to me has been "Why has God allowed these things to happen to me"? These past years I have tried to reassure her that God does not bring bad things purposely into our lives, but if we know Him, He will help us get through difficulties victoriously. She has never been able to grasp that thought. Please pray for her. She, I am afraid, will again ask why. Pray that through this tragedy she will come to know Him - really know Him and His peace and comfort.

O

Important Lesson Learned!

2008-07-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

Today I learned a very valuable lesson - do not put off your quiet time. God will speak to you in spite of procrastination! I could not seem to get going this morning. Remember in one of my other posts I said that one of the greatest gifts that the Lord had given me was the ability to sleep late since I retired? Well, He has been dealing with me on that, but that is a whole other post. This post is dedicated to me and how satan (he doesn't deserve a capital S) is so sly and works so cleverly that even when good is done, he can twist that good into sin.

It was a little late when I got up (don't ask) and as usual I still took the time to drink my coffee on the porch and glance at the newspaper. Ordinarily, I have my quiet time then, but because I indulged in one of the greatest gifts the Lord had given me in retirement (remember), I thought I had better get to making beds and other VERY important things. Hubby went outside to weed eat and mow. Now, before I go any further, let me tell you about our " below us" neighbor. We live on a mountain and a couple built a house last year on the lot just below us. My hubby is a very friendly person - always the good neighbor - better than me. He likes to chat and do things for neighbors that need to be done. I have known him to mow yards for vacationing neighbors, feed dogs, take care of gardens, get mail - you know - all the things that good neighbors do to help other good neighbors. Our " below us" neighbor is a little different. When they were building their house, hubby kept an eye out for vandals and people who like to help themselves to others property. Any time we would see them we would wave and speak. In the beginning I thought they, especially the man of the house, just missed our wave, but then I noticed that I could be at the mailbox and he would pass and whoops - he missed my wave again! How 'bout that? Enough said. Back to today. Hubby is outside mowing. I'm inside doing all the VERY important that kept me from having my quiet time in the am. Time passes and I think I better check on hubby. I haven't heard him in awhile and I always worry that something bad may have happened. I step out on the porch and call his name and he is downstairs in the basement. I go down and tell him I was beginning to be worried, and then he tells me he has been fixing "below us" neighbors mailbox! I could hardly believe my ears. What in the world was he thinking. Neighbor who will not lower himself to even wave, much less speak. My hubby did not have time for that. He even had to drill new holes to make the mailbox flag work. We had plenty to do here at our house, and beside that, he was going to his brothers house to mow for him! What in the world could he have been thinking! I asked him if "below us" neighbor thanked him. And this part is what amazed me - he didn't talk to neighbor. Neighbor wasn't even home.

Now, time passes. Hubby is on his way to his brothers and I am doing my thing of running the vacuum. Even with all the noise, Still Small Voice is loud and clear - very clear. "Donna, you have taken a good deed and you have smeared it all up with satan (no capital s). Forget what neighbor does or how he acts. Hubby did the right thing. His heart was in the right place. You were selfish and wrong. It could have been different if you had spent time with Me this morning. You need to take lessons from the head of your house. His act of kindness was exactly what the golden rule is all about. Do unto others........... Remember. If neighbor never knows who fixed his mailbox, it's okay because I know. That's all that matters."

I must say, I am very proud of hubby. The Lord was right. His heart was in the right place and mine was definitely in the wrong place. You can rest assured that my quiet time will come first in the morning. That does not mean that I will make all the right decisions because my time with the Lord was first, but I have no doubt my outlook on the day will be better.

This & That & Random Thoughts.............

2008-07-02T10:35:00.000-07:00

It's been a week since I've been in the blog world (that info is straight from bethanne's blog list) and I really don't have any excuse except to say that I guess I have been a little "unbloggy". Sometimes I think that we get to the place where we just want to "be still and know" and that is kind of where I've been this past week.

Several things have crossed my mind that I want to talk about, fuss about, muse about and then I think "nobody wants to hear that". Since I have not titled this post yet, guess it could be "This and That and Random Thoughts".

I did get to go to church this past Sunday and it felt so good. When I don't go to church on Sundays my whole week feels "off". Our pastor preached on the rapture and I was again greatly encouraged. I truly look forward to that time.

On Monday, hubby and I went with his brother and sister to visit his Aunt who turns 91 today. I was amazed at the sharpness of her mind (sharper than mine). She is walking with the help of a cane, but looked and seemed well. I could not help but think that I will never make it to be 91. She lives very modestly and told me she still cooks for herself and her son. She also told me she was ready to die and looked forward to being with the Lord. As I talked with her, she delighted in telling me about her grandchildren and great children - where they lived and what they did for a living. She seemed so happy that we came and asked us to please come back. As we were coming back up the road, I thought what little effort that it had taken on our part to make the visit, but how much it seemed to please her that we came. Why had we waited so long? Why do we not take the time to fit into our "busy" lives those who would just like a short visit?

Yesterday, was a full day. Hubby and I went for him to get a haircut and then had lunch at a tearoom (yes, there were men there too). It was a pleasant change from our mundane pace and not only did we eat, but we got to browse in the gift shop (loved it!). No double cheeseburger for us - chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, tomato dill soup, fresh salad with raspberry vinaigrette dressing, assorted fresh fruit and a slice of banana bread with creamery butter. Terrific! We could have had quiche but we decided not to go too far out! Then we were blessed to go to grandson Lake's tournament ballgame. His team did not win but there were trophies all around and they made a great showing of team effort and sportsmanship. Best part of all was that the parents also showed great sportsmanship! Then it was to Lake's favorite place to eat, Pizza Inn.
By the time the game was over, we were all starved and sufficiently stuffed ourselves making it difficult to exit the building. It was good to be with family and son-in-law's Mom and Dad too.
Needless to say, by the time I got home, I was exhausted and a early turn in was in order.

I guess I related these past few days so that I can put down in black and white that I am slowly returning to normal. My pace is picking up and life seems to be going on. Next week will be our first week to work at the campground since my accident. I am looking forward to being back. Also, on Tuesday of next week, hubby's son Kenneth and granddaughter Courtney will be coming home for a visit from Japan. We look forward to seeing them and spending time catching up with them. After this tour in Japan, Kenneth, Heather (his wife), and Courtney will be stationed in Hawaii. It's a little bitter-sweet. Once they go to Hawaii in December, Kenneth will immediately be deployed to Iraq for six months. Why can't things be simple? Too much to ask I guess.

If you have gotten to this point in this post, I guess you are pretty well bored. Sorry. Next time I'll try to be a little more exciting, or maybe I'll have some more pretty pictures! I guess this qualifies for a meme (someone please explain to me about that - I'm still just learning).

A Day On The Mountain

2008-06-25T08:31:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the Rhododendron flowers on the mountain in Roan Mountain. Since this is my first try at pictures on my blog (with Bethanne's help), I hope they show up as beautiful as they really are. Yesterday was a great day to be on the mountain - 64 degrees - no humidity - and God's beauty all around. Hope you enjoy!

Catchin' Up..........

2008-06-23T18:04:00.000-07:00

The past few days have been busy, busy and more busy. After being put in the "slow down" mode for the previous two weeks, I have found that doing something or anything is very tiring. This past Friday, my husband and I went back to the scene of the accident and camped for a couple of nights. Saturday was the Rhododendron festival at the park and there were lots of people, food and crafts. I especially wanted to go to get a couple of Christmas gifts I can get no where else. Just walking a little and with the heat, it did not take long to get worn out. That night was grandson Lake's birthday party. We had cake, presents and much fun. It is always so good to be together as a family. Need I say by Saturday night I was ready for bed!

Today has been catch up on washing day and in between loads just resting. In the mail today I got two or three magazines and I thought that reading would be a relaxing thing to do. Sadly, the more I read the angrier I became. I started off with the TV guide. I saw a couple of articles on the front cover that I thought I might be interested in reading. I always like to read In Box which is made up of letters from readers. In last week's issue, a reader had written a letter shaming writers and producers of three shows this summer that are exploiting sex and promiscuity. These shows are at an early hour and the writer ends her letter by asking "What are we teaching our young people?". Then the reply to her letter came in this week's issue. On your remote you will find a button that says CHANNEL and has up and down arrows. Use it. In another article a few pages over there was an interview with one of the stars of one of these shows. His take on the show being "sexually indulgent" is that this is America, and we have the right to do what we want to do.

Having been enraged by TV guide, I decided that I would read my AARP magazine that had also come today. Surely I would be safe in anything I would read in this old retired persons magazine. Wrong! After reading about sunscreen, exercise (they didn't mention bike riding),
health care costs, wounded vets, and antiques I came upon an interview with Martin Sheen. Now Martin Sheen has never really been one of my favorite actors (couldn't stand Apocalypse Now), but I thought I would see what he had to say as a recovering alcoholic. Anyone that has gone through the Alcoholics Anonymous Program and is still involved with it must have good advice to give. Wrong! All I can hope is that no young people read AARP or that no lost people read what Martin Sheen thinks about God, religion and heaven. The interviewer asked him if he thinks he will see his brothers that have died in heaven on day. His reply was that he was not concerned about that. He believes that he will see them in this life. He does not think that we go to heaven. He thinks that we become heaven. The interviewer then asked what he meant by that. His answered by saying that we create heaven right here, right now. We project heaven and that he doesn't have to wait until he is dead. One of the most truthful statements that Sheen made was that he did not have a clue what God is - not who God is but what God is. Does that not tell you how far off track he is?

Now, how is that for meaningful reading. Made me want to go back to the campground where there is no mail, no phone and the most exciting thing that happens is a bike wreck every once in awhile! Seriously, my heart is saddened when I think that many people who have influence in this world do not have a clue as to who God is and find it fashionable to be "spiritually enlightened". It would be so easy to become discouraged and think that there is no hope, but because I know the Creator of this universe and because He lives within me, I am encouraged and I know there is hope for this lost and dieing world. I cannot reach the millions like some, but I can reach those I have contact with each day. I do not have the grand influence like the Oprahs or the Martin Sheens of this world, but I have the one on one influence of my every day world and can testify to what Jesus did and is still doing for me. I am so grateful that I know Him. I am so grateful that I am not still in the dark, grasping for answers and facing eternal doom. I am so grateful that I have a witness to give and I pray to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in giving that witness.

Just had to share what's on my heart today..................

I Am A "Kept" Woman

2008-06-19T19:08:00.000-07:00

You see, there were a few times when I thought I would lose my mind,

But GOD kept me sane. (Isa. 26:3)

There were times when I thought I could go no longer,

But the LORD kept me moving. (Gen. 28:15)

At times, I've wanted to lash out at those whom I felt had done me wrong,

But the LORD kept my mouth shut. (Psa. 13)

Sometimes, I think the money just isn't enough,

But GOD has helped me to keep the lights on, the water on, the car paid, the house paid

etc. (Matt. 6:25-34)

When I thought I would fall, HE kept me up.

When I thought I was weak, HE kept me strong! (1Pet. 5:7, Matt. 11:28-30)

I could go on and on and on, but I'm sure you hear me!

I'm blessed to be "kept".

I'm "KEPT" by the Love and Grace of God!

Now how great is that!

I'm As Good As New!

2008-06-16T14:25:00.000-07:00

Well, not really but almost. This post is the last one I will be making about my accident. I don't want to dwell on this "brought on by me" sickness. Today I went back to the neurosurgeon and the trauma Dr. My report was good. The neurosurgeon showed me my first CT scan and the one taken on this past Friday. Even I could see a difference in the original bruise on my brain and one almost two weeks later. Another thing that I had to admit was that this Dr was really nice. Do you ever make snap judgments and then have to reassess your thinking? Did I ever have to do that today. When I was at my lowest in the hospital, this particular Dr came in to see me. I thought he was aloof and certainly had no bedside manner. I had already placed him on my "Drs to never see again" list. Today they told me that I would be seeing another Dr and I was good with that. Then he walked in and my feathers really drooped:( I had prayed about both these appointments today and had specifically prayed about this CT scan. How would I ever be able to understand all that I needed to know with this guy who had no personality and barely would speak my lingo. Well, another lesson learned. Before I came out of the examining room he talked about his wife and children, how they liked to camp and hike, and how he had been to Roan Mountain only once but wanted to go back. In talking to him about my accident I was able to tell him about my heavenly Father's protection of me. How he has promised to never leave me or forsake me even on a bike flying down a mountain and how it could have been sooooooooooo much worse but because of the fervent prayer of many righteous people, he has and still is healing me. As I walked to the car with my hubby, I again thanked God for His healing power and most importantly asked His forgiveness for my hasty judgment.

Next, it was on to the trauma Dr to have the staples taken out of my head (ouch). This was a good experience too and after a short examination, I was told that the dizziness I have been experiencing at times was very normal and everything looked good. I can even drive now! I still have to take it slow and deliberate, but I have mastered that trick! Taking out the staples was not the most pleasant thing I've had done, but it was okay. It is good to have nothing foreign in my hair! Now I do not have to be so particular in fixing and washing it.

Am I good as new? Not really, but I am on the mend. Have I learned anything through all this? Absolutely! God does not allow us to go through hard times without teaching us. My heart is so grateful to all the people that have been praying and to the caring and compassionate nurses and aides at the hospital. My family who, though worried, did everything to comfort me and keep a positive attitude. My Roan Mountain State Park family who came to visit, brought beautiful flowers, and prayed. How good it is to know that when we are in need there are those who love

and care about us.

Control..........A Lesson Learned

2008-06-12T08:03:00.000-07:00

I have always been a control freak. That's right - me -sweet, kind, passive (not) me. In the past week, control has been redefined to me. For many years I have on many occasions made this statement of wisdom "God Is In Control". Today on June 12, 2008 at 11:07 am I can honestly and truthfully say with great confidence that "God IS In Control".

Since I have had much down time in this past week, I have had much thinking time. As I went back over in my mind the events of my accident, the Lord began to show me that control is His area of expertise. My area of expertise is supposed to be submission. I am not to dabble in His area. That is not in His plan. If I learned nothing else from my "little" excursion it is that. You see, I wanted God to be in control of the big things like wars, famine, droughts, elections, tornadoes, oceans, rain and such, but I could very well handle things in my daily life, such as my husband, my children, my grandchildren and their life changing decisions - all the small things that God doesn't need to be bothered with. I can handle (control) the little things in my life.

I think that reality set in on me about the time I realized that I had no control over a bike that was speeding down a hill toward a wood pile and a campsite! A split second before I crashed into a steel grill I heard that still small voice remind me that "It's okay, I'm here, I'm in control". Just like that. Simple. Peace. Calm. From that point on I was very much aware that He was in control. It was Him that had John Williams, the campground host for the week, on the cart coming up the hill to our campsite. John immediately was able to go call 911. Had John not been there at that very time, my hubby would have had to leave me alone to go down the mountain to call. Control! It was Him that placed the rescue squad in Roan Mountain which caused them to be there in record time. Control! It was Him that caused Wings to be free at the very moment I needed them. Control! It was Him that placed me in the capable hands of a very knowledgeable trauma team at Johnson City Medical Center. Control! Control! Control! His Control - not my control.

Now, have I really learned a lesson about control? I pray so. This past week it seems that everyone else has been in control of me except me - Drs, nurses, daughters, husbands, monitors, needles and because I was not in control I am getting stronger and better. Imagine that! Sometimes God needs to shake us really good and let us know how helpless we can quickly become and through that helplessness who actually is in control. God is so good. I can see myself when I am 100% again lapsing back into the "control freak " mode, but because my God is patient and forgiving I can also see Him again saying "It's okay - I'm here - I'm in control".

So, today's lesson I have learned is control. Wow! Why had I not already learned that? Too hard headed I guess!

What A Trip!

2008-06-11T11:43:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, the past week has been a real experience in my otherwise mundane life! There are so many things I want to post and share with you so I thought that I would take it slow and easy (which I am having to do a lot of these days). Maybe even post more than one day on the things I have learned, things I have ignored, people I have been impressed by, people that have meant more to me than I could ever express and, most importantly the things that my Abba God has shown me through all this . I started to tell in much detail the parts of the bicycle accident that I remember. In fact, I typed a couple of paragraphs and it dawned on me that no one would want to hear all the gory details of my stupidity (no helmet). Everything that happens to us is a learning experience, if we allow it to be, and if we can admit that we are able to learn no matter how old we are. As I was growing up an only child, my parents taught me to think for myself and that I could do anything. As I grew, they allowed me to do things for myself. That is great teaching if we don't take it too far. Sometimes there comes situations in our life when we have to depend on other people. It is a very humbling experience when you have to trade roles with your adult children. It has been my job for the last 40 some years to be the Mother and give the advice, admonish the warnings, take care of the sick, get the cold wash rag, hold the sick pan, and say "just rest". My daughters took over that role when I was in the hospital. I am not sure that I was ready for that switch, but it had to take place because I was helpless. I have no doubt they were worried, but each time they came in the door their goal was to help me get back to my old self - maybe even a better self! They selflessly took time away from their own families to stay with me - to meet my every need. My older grandchildren came and were of great support. It is always soooooooo good to hear them say "Memaw, I love you". The younger grandchildren called and made cards telling me they love me and to get better. My two sons-in-law endured several nights visiting in a "too" small room with their Mother-in-law and waiting to be sent out when I could not keep down two sips of ginger ale. They both know that I love them for their concern and patience. My husband, who is NOT a hospital person, has been the one to keep the home fires burning and has lovingly taken care of my two four-footed friends. Since I have been home from the hospital, again I have had to depend totally on someone else - my mate. I can't do anything until I ask and then I can't do it after I ask. I have been waited on hand and foot. I always wondered how it would feel to have someone cook every meal for you and do the washing and make the beds and bring you Popsicles. I can tell you that it feels nice, but I will be glad to be able to reverse the roles back. I like to do and now since I can not do, I want to do. Does that remind you of Paul - the things I want to do, I do not do, and the things I do not want to do, I do.

Something that has been difficult for me to get through my hard head (it really is hard) is that this body of mine is really quiet frail. I have always been well. I have never been in the hospital except to have my children. I have not ever been unable to go, but God truly is in control. Each day when I wanted to come home from the hospital, it was not in His plan. I needed to be there for my own good. At 61 learning new lessons is not easy!

I suppose that I have posted enough wisdom for one post, but be assured I have more to tell you. Since I have not been able to post in a week, I have a lot of catching up to do!

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This Has Been One of Those Days!

2008-05-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

Sometimes is amazes me just how little I really know. I thought myself so smart when I wrote my first post yesterday. Today I can not seem to do anything I want to do with this blog. Bethanne, my #1 blog advisor has been at the new house today slaving. I immediately moved on to my #2 advisor, Alliekat, who seems to feel that her job is more important than her Mom and does not answer her phone at work. Finally, I try advisor #3, Annaelizabeth who likewise does not answer (later to learn sleep was more important). After several frustrating hours, with no one caring that I am in need, Annaelizabeth calls and we work on copy & paste. Remember, I am not at all computer savy! I have to take it a step at a time and baby steps at that. Very patiently Annaelizabeth walks me through copy and paste (more than once) and it works. Yeah! Whoops! It took something else off. Oh No!!! Now how do I get that back? What a bumber! If I intend to be any kind of blogger at all, I must learn more about this copy and paste thing. I simply can't understand it. Everyone else's blog has all these pretty pictures and wise and spiritual sayings on them. Some people even have beautiful music playing for you while you read. I want my blog to be as good or even better than everyone else's. Lord, You know that I prayed about this blog and you gave me the go ahead. Now, why is it so hard to get this thing going?

Immediately, this still small voice whispered "Hold On". Forget everyone else's blog. You are not participating in blogging to compare your blog to others. That is not what Christian blogging is all about. Christian blogging is to put My children in touch with one another and through their blogs glorify Me. By sharing with each other, you will lift each other up, pray for one another, cry with one another, teach one another and ultimately strengthen one another which strengthens My kingdom here on earth. There are many secular blogs out there that are written to show off and compete with each other. The blogs that my children write are to bind them together not tear them apart".

Oh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now I get it! satan (remember, satan does not deserve a capital s) has taken my frustration with learning about blogging and turned it into a "me" thing. Why does that not surprise me? The very smallest of things, innocent as they may be, he uses as an area that he can attack. But (the rest of the story) only if we allow him!

Thankfully, the Holy Spirit hopped on this one really quick (wish that happened all the time) and I now see this blogging thing in a different light. I am not blogging to be the best - only to be His best - in all that I do in order to glorify Him. Got it!

In the months that I was praying whether to start a blog or not, I read many blogs of friends and family. Some days the thoughts that they had were exactly what I needed to hear at that very moment. How sweet it is to know that God uses, to His glory, something as simple as blogging to unite his children. Thank You, Lord!

The powers of darkness have blinded the race,
Closing our eyes to the glories of grace;
But faith in the Savior brings healing and sight -
He floods our soul with His truth and His light. - DJD

My Very First Post!!!!

2008-05-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

After months of contemplating, praying and procrastinating I am finally posting my first blog. Wow! How cool is that! Now, let it be known from this day forward - I am not in my daughters league of bloggers. Both of my girls have a blog and I enjoy so much reading things about them I never knew. They are witty, have great spiritual insight, think deeply and have done me proud. Do not expect the same from their Mother! I, on the other hand, like to ramble and at my age (which I will not go into) have come to realize that the simpler things in life are the most precious. For instance good coffee - counting how many bird nests are in our yard - sitting by the campfire listening to the quiet - fixing a meal for my children, their spouses, and grandchildren and waiting for them to tell me how good it is! I guess I am getting the cart before the horse - I need to tell you a little about myself and from whence I came.
I was born and raised in East Tennessee (an only child) and retired from working in the Court System as a court clerk. In thirty years I saw and heard it all! I have two daughters, two sons-in-law, 5 grandchildren ranging in age from 22 to 4, and one husband who is retired from the State of Tennessee. To be retired is wonderful and the best gift the Lord has given me is to be able to sleep till whenever I want (around 7:30 or 8:00) in the morning instead of getting up at 5:30. When we retired, we sold our house and land and moved to the side of the mountain toward North Carolina - still close to the children but far enough away to feel like we are on vacation. My heart is in the mountains. I love the beach for a limited time and always look for the mountains coming home. Our, my hubs (thought I'd use Bethanne's lingo) and I have found that the simpler our life, the better. I enjoy watching the progress our children make, but do not envy the work. Wait - that's not lazy - that's been there, done that! There comes a time in one's life when enough is enough!
You may have already been able to tell from the layout of my post that I am a dog person. Much to the dismay of some of my children (namely - waiting for the shout) who say I love my two dogs more than them and that my dogs are allowed to do things that my children were never able to do (lay on the beds), I have found great comfort from the unconditional love that Bodie and Chessy give us. They do have some annoying traits. They are yappers. They think they own the road in front of our house and thus protest if anyone passes on "their" road. They are jealous of one another if each is not getting their share of attention. They want what they want when they want it. Sound familiar? So many times I find that my dogs react in some of the same ways we humans do. I have learned much by observing how they react to us and to each other.
Confession time - I am a crossword puzzle junkie! I am obsessed with the puzzle in the daily newspaper. I have even gone so far as to go on line every (yes, I said every day!) and run two puzzles off the Internet and have been known to work on them for a week to get them done. I enjoy the challenge not to mention that I am insuring against dreaded "A" word by keeping my mind active! I also to the cryptogram and the work scramble - there - you know it all!
Having said all the above - I am here to tell you my most important accomplishment - I on May 11, 1970 accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as my Saviour and Lord, and although I have many, many times been disobedient and made some horrific, sinful decisions in my life, He has always been faithful, forgiven me, and drawn me back into His loving arms. I live daily with the consequences of some of those decisions but I also live with the knowledge of His love and forgiveness. My heartfelt goal in this life is to be obedient to Him and one day hear Him say "Well done".