Thursday, December 25, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Joy...Joy...Joy...Joy!!!
Strike up the band...Mark made it home safely from his overnight stay in the snow!!
AND
He is taking a vacation day tomorrow which means he is ours until after Christmas!
HALLELUJAH!!!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Snow in Sunny? Southern California
Sunday, Katie sang: "The sun is shining, the grass is green. The orange and palm trees sway. There's never such a day in Rialto or L.A. But it's December, the 24th, and I'm longing to go up North." Mark traveled north on December 17th and got stuck because it is snowing...LOTS...in the high desert area of Southern California! Thanks a lot, Katie, for singing the snow to our area. LOL
Here is Mark enjoying the snow at 9:30ish this morning. He already knew he most likely wouldn't be coming home to us today. Before lunchtime, we knew, unless there was a freaky heatwave to melt all that snow, Mark was stuck.
This is right outside the warehouse where Mark works.
Tonight, Mark says the snow is much deeper and it was still snowing at 5 pm. Soooo....who knows when he will get to come home. If the snow keeps going all night, then it may be another day before enough melts to make it safe to travel down the Cajon Pass to get back home.
I just read that another brother from ILC is stuck up the hill tonight as well. So, anyone who lives up there and travels to Rialto for church or anyone who works up the hill and didn't get home before the closure will be missing service tonight! :(
Please pray for everyone who is traveling in this wonderful weather and for those who need to go home, whether down or up the hill, tomorrow.
For those of you who are where there is snow, enjoy it and build a snowman for the McVays of Rialto, okay? God bless and keep you during this Christmas season!
Here is Mark enjoying the snow at 9:30ish this morning. He already knew he most likely wouldn't be coming home to us today. Before lunchtime, we knew, unless there was a freaky heatwave to melt all that snow, Mark was stuck.
This is right outside the warehouse where Mark works.
Tonight, Mark says the snow is much deeper and it was still snowing at 5 pm. Soooo....who knows when he will get to come home. If the snow keeps going all night, then it may be another day before enough melts to make it safe to travel down the Cajon Pass to get back home.
I just read that another brother from ILC is stuck up the hill tonight as well. So, anyone who lives up there and travels to Rialto for church or anyone who works up the hill and didn't get home before the closure will be missing service tonight! :(
Please pray for everyone who is traveling in this wonderful weather and for those who need to go home, whether down or up the hill, tomorrow.
For those of you who are where there is snow, enjoy it and build a snowman for the McVays of Rialto, okay? God bless and keep you during this Christmas season!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
I have seen this game of Tagged on a couple of other sites and I have decided to play it!
RULE ONE: Grab one of the books closest to me, go to page 56, type the fifth line and the next two to five lines that follow.
RULE TWO: Pick five people who love books and who could receive the Bookworm award with honor.
"When artists have more confidence in their giftedness than in the Lord, they leave the stage more worried about how they looked or sounded than about whether God used them. They're more concerned with technique than with substance. Jesus of course is the ultimate example of servanthood."
The Heart of The Artist: A Character-Building Guide for You & Your Ministry Team by Rory Noland
AMEN!
I tag: Bekki Simpson
Katie Booker
Erica Rose Marxer (who is coming home soon!!!)
Jacque Chance
Theresa Lozano
RULE ONE: Grab one of the books closest to me, go to page 56, type the fifth line and the next two to five lines that follow.
RULE TWO: Pick five people who love books and who could receive the Bookworm award with honor.
"When artists have more confidence in their giftedness than in the Lord, they leave the stage more worried about how they looked or sounded than about whether God used them. They're more concerned with technique than with substance. Jesus of course is the ultimate example of servanthood."
The Heart of The Artist: A Character-Building Guide for You & Your Ministry Team by Rory Noland
AMEN!
I tag: Bekki Simpson
Katie Booker
Erica Rose Marxer (who is coming home soon!!!)
Jacque Chance
Theresa Lozano
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving Joys
As I sit here in the den of my sister's home, I hear my children playing with their cousins, my mom and sister talking in the front room along with my uncle, Tom. My brother is sitting there nearby as well while my father sits next to me, on the sofa, gently (and this is rare, the gentle part that is...LOL) snoring with his head buried in his chest. Just now I heard the shower start upstairs and know that my husband is getting ready for bed. He is going to get up around 5 am tomorrow and help his parents move from Fresno to San Jose.
We have had a wonderful day full of family, food, and fun. My in-laws had lunch at 2 at my sister-in-laws home here in San Jose. After eating too much food, everyone dispersed to different parts of the house. My brother-in-law went to his office to watch the Cowboys win their game, my mother-in-law and Mark took a nap in the den, some of the kids went into different bedrooms to play dress-up or video games, while others joined Sharon and I at the table to play Disney Uno. We played for over an hour and a half and I think I won!!!
Later, we left Sharon's and with Mom and Dad in law, we drove over to cousin Cindy's home. At this house, we saw her brothers, Lonnie, David, Gary, her sister Karen and her husband Steve along with their 3 boys. We saw her husband David and two of their boys; Nathan and Matthew (whose son, Ryan was running around somewhere) We also saw Cindy's mom Aunt Mary, and David's (the brother, not the husband)daughter Cristina and her new hubby and baby. There were other cousins there that left just as we arrived. What a houseful!!! We haven't seen most of them in over a year and it was nice to reconnect for a few moments.
I pray your day was just as full of family joys as was mine.
God has been so good to us and I look forward to another year of blessings from above.
We have had a wonderful day full of family, food, and fun. My in-laws had lunch at 2 at my sister-in-laws home here in San Jose. After eating too much food, everyone dispersed to different parts of the house. My brother-in-law went to his office to watch the Cowboys win their game, my mother-in-law and Mark took a nap in the den, some of the kids went into different bedrooms to play dress-up or video games, while others joined Sharon and I at the table to play Disney Uno. We played for over an hour and a half and I think I won!!!
Later, we left Sharon's and with Mom and Dad in law, we drove over to cousin Cindy's home. At this house, we saw her brothers, Lonnie, David, Gary, her sister Karen and her husband Steve along with their 3 boys. We saw her husband David and two of their boys; Nathan and Matthew (whose son, Ryan was running around somewhere) We also saw Cindy's mom Aunt Mary, and David's (the brother, not the husband)daughter Cristina and her new hubby and baby. There were other cousins there that left just as we arrived. What a houseful!!! We haven't seen most of them in over a year and it was nice to reconnect for a few moments.
I pray your day was just as full of family joys as was mine.
God has been so good to us and I look forward to another year of blessings from above.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Family Picture Joys
Aren't they gorgeous??
We had our Christmas/Family pictures taken last Saturday. I can't wait to see the proofs! This is one of my favorites (which I borrowed from the photographer's blog, LOL) and yes, my son is character and cute to boot!
Thanks to Laura B from B. Artistic Photography for a fun photoshoot. She was a VERY patient and sweet lady when Justin got tired of cooperating and had a moment or 10, LOL, where he couldn't sit still. And Anabelle, our Dachshund, was a trial, especially in the first photo attempt where she decided she needed to go potty while we attempted to set up the shot. HAHAHAHAHA
I will post more pictures when I see the proofs and make my selections for printing! If you want to see a few more of our pictures, visit bartisticphotography.blogspot.com. If you live in the Inland Empire or Southern California, Laura is the lady to book for your family photos, weddings, etc. You won't regret your choice!!!
This is one time I simply can not wait to spend some money!!! It will be well worth it, I believe.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
A Deep Question - Please Share Your Thoughts
Today, just before our study session began, one of the students who attends my Interpersonal Communication study session asked me if he could ask a question. He seemed hesitant to ask. I told him, "Sure, go ahead." I expected the question to be about what we are studying or what will be on the upcoming exam.
His first question shocked me a little. He asked, "How long have you been going to church?" I told him I was raised attending church. He asked for clarification about that (he is originally from Peru and language is sometimes a barrier.) and so I told him that I had been brought up attending church, my parents had attended church from an early age and that my grandfather had been a minister. This seemed to give him the courage to continue.
His next question was "Why do you think so many people only turn to God when they are in trouble?" I gave him my answer but have been pondering the question ever since.
I pose this question to those who read my blog, "Why does it seem that people only turn to God when they are in trouble and need help?"
Please answer and share your insight to this quandary. I would like to be able to help this student understand better and continue to have dialogue about Christ!
His first question shocked me a little. He asked, "How long have you been going to church?" I told him I was raised attending church. He asked for clarification about that (he is originally from Peru and language is sometimes a barrier.) and so I told him that I had been brought up attending church, my parents had attended church from an early age and that my grandfather had been a minister. This seemed to give him the courage to continue.
His next question was "Why do you think so many people only turn to God when they are in trouble?" I gave him my answer but have been pondering the question ever since.
I pose this question to those who read my blog, "Why does it seem that people only turn to God when they are in trouble and need help?"
Please answer and share your insight to this quandary. I would like to be able to help this student understand better and continue to have dialogue about Christ!
Outcome of Voting Across America
May God have mercy on America...she is headed for change...most likely NOT for the good or betterment of her people. Barack Obama is now to be President of the US and I will do my duty and pray for him but I am disappointed in the youth of America who voted without really doing any research about their candidate. They took what they were told at face value and disregarded any negativity as bashing (as it was portrayed quite frequently by the media.) I know of which I speak because I work and attend a college in the Inland Empire. Several conversations with fellow students left me shaking my head at their ignorance. I am not saying that they are not smart but they only spouted what the media was telling them and could not back up anything they believed. They just knew that Barack was black, younger than McCain, supports abortion, was against war and wanted to give them more money. But did they hear the clips where Obama promised to raise taxes by 16% for people in my income bracket (which included most of these student's parents amounts of income)??? Did they hear that he wants to beef up our security forces with civilian patrols that would equal our current military might??? Reminds me of the Black Panthers or even scarier, Adolf Hitler and his youth corp.
Now, I just was perusing a run down of Propositions that have passed in California and found a listing of other states' propositions. I must confess I was mostly ignorant of what was transpiring in other states.
I found:
Arizona Prop. 102 was passing and would protect marriage as a union between a man and woman.
Arizona Prop. 202 was failing. It appears to have been an attempt to protect employers who hire illegal immigrants.
Arkansas Initiative 1 was passing and bans unmarried couples (same or opposite sex) from adopting children.
California Prop. 8 was passing. Perhaps they should listen to the people...instead of circumventing our vote and trying to allow gays and lesbians to marry. This is the SECOND time Californians have voted AGAINST same-sex marriage.
California Prop. 4 was failing. Parents have to be notified AND give consent for a student to receive an aspirin at school but that same child can have an abortion without the parent being notified or giving consent!
Colorado Ammendment 48 is failing. This would have declared that human life begins at conception and would have ultimately defeated abortion.
Florida Amendment 2 is passing. It too declares that marriage is between a man and woman. Bans same sex marriages. Do you hear us, America? Do you hear us, homosexuals who keep demanding this right?
Michigan Prop. 2 is passing. This allows embryonic stem cell research on embryos up to 14 days of cell division.
South Dakota Initiative 11 was failing. This was an attempt to prohibit ALL abortions except in cases of immenent death of the mother or rape/incest for pregnancies less than 20 weeks.
Washington Initiative 1000 is passing. This allows terminally ill patients to request a doctor's assistant to commit suicide!!!
God help us...the babies can be killed as a form of birth control and now we are opening up another door of murder...killing off those older and invalid. This is a Pandora's box!!!
Additionally: Two states had initiatives/propositions attempting to end Affirmative Action. One state is defeating the proposition while the other looks to be passing it.
Other Initiatives/Propositions were in the balance but they dealt with gambling, medical marijauna use and repealing state taxes. California already has a medical marijuana ability. This other state is just falling in line.
I hope you have found this to be informative...I am sorry it is so long. But with change comes responsibility to be aware of what may happen! Again....GOD BLESS AMERICA!!! God HELP America!!!
Now, I just was perusing a run down of Propositions that have passed in California and found a listing of other states' propositions. I must confess I was mostly ignorant of what was transpiring in other states.
I found:
Arizona Prop. 102 was passing and would protect marriage as a union between a man and woman.
Arizona Prop. 202 was failing. It appears to have been an attempt to protect employers who hire illegal immigrants.
Arkansas Initiative 1 was passing and bans unmarried couples (same or opposite sex) from adopting children.
California Prop. 8 was passing. Perhaps they should listen to the people...instead of circumventing our vote and trying to allow gays and lesbians to marry. This is the SECOND time Californians have voted AGAINST same-sex marriage.
California Prop. 4 was failing. Parents have to be notified AND give consent for a student to receive an aspirin at school but that same child can have an abortion without the parent being notified or giving consent!
Colorado Ammendment 48 is failing. This would have declared that human life begins at conception and would have ultimately defeated abortion.
Florida Amendment 2 is passing. It too declares that marriage is between a man and woman. Bans same sex marriages. Do you hear us, America? Do you hear us, homosexuals who keep demanding this right?
Michigan Prop. 2 is passing. This allows embryonic stem cell research on embryos up to 14 days of cell division.
South Dakota Initiative 11 was failing. This was an attempt to prohibit ALL abortions except in cases of immenent death of the mother or rape/incest for pregnancies less than 20 weeks.
Washington Initiative 1000 is passing. This allows terminally ill patients to request a doctor's assistant to commit suicide!!!
God help us...the babies can be killed as a form of birth control and now we are opening up another door of murder...killing off those older and invalid. This is a Pandora's box!!!
Additionally: Two states had initiatives/propositions attempting to end Affirmative Action. One state is defeating the proposition while the other looks to be passing it.
Other Initiatives/Propositions were in the balance but they dealt with gambling, medical marijauna use and repealing state taxes. California already has a medical marijuana ability. This other state is just falling in line.
I hope you have found this to be informative...I am sorry it is so long. But with change comes responsibility to be aware of what may happen! Again....GOD BLESS AMERICA!!! God HELP America!!!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
God help the United States of America today as we vote for our next president. All indications show that we will definitely need His help and grace. I voted according to His Word and my conscience...Yes on Proposition 8 protecting marriage, Yes on Proposition 4 requiring parental notification (btw, we need to take it further and require parental consent if we can't get abortion outlawed altogether), and for John McCain and Sarah Palin.
Make sure you vote too!
Monday, November 3, 2008
All In Him - Lyrics Included
To all my fellow Oneness, Apostolic, Pentecostal, Jesus Name people,
For shame, for shame, for shame!
I went looking online for lyrics to the song "All In Him" and it is posted nowhere!!!! What I did find was site after site that talked about His name(s) but then said He is part of the Trinity. One site even said in it's listing, "OUR Prince of Peace? OUR Everlasting Father? OUR Mighty God? .... So Jesus cannot be THE TRUE GOD but he is designated with the title "God" ..."
WHAT?
I recently was on Youtube...which I try to limit my use of...and was listening to a song by Kirk Franklin. The lyrics were the "video" and at the end, there was an ad for a United Pentecostal Church back East. In this video, the lyrics say that Jesus is the true son. second in the Godhead. Again, WHAT?
So, I posted this comment to the video: "Hello, I have one question! If you are an UPC church, why do you have a song that talks about Jesus being the second in the trinity as an ad for your services?? Jesus IS God in the flesh and there is NO trinity in the Bible! He IS the First, the Last, the ONLY way!!"
The person who had posted the ad replied: "yeah! i agree with everything you said (your beliefs) but i liked the overall message of the song and to be honest i didn't realize it said that!
thanks for your concern!"
WHAT?
How can we allow the One God message not to be our clarion call??? If we are posting an ad for services, shouldn't we have songs, lyrics, etc. that proclaim WHO Jesus is? We definitely should not have a song that features the trinity!!! How confusing!!!
So, I am posting the words to the song, "All In Him" and hoping that now when someone does an online search, they will find this song that declares that Jesus is God!!
All In Him
by: George Farrow
Verse 1
The mighty God is Jesus
The Prince of Peace is He
The Everlasting Father
The King Eternally
The Wonderful in wisdom
By whom all things were made
The fullness of the Godhead
in Jesus is displayed
Verse 2
Emmanuel God with us
Jehovah Lord of hosts
The omnipresent Spirit
Who fills the universe
The Advocate The High Priest
The Lamb for sinners slain
The Author of redemption
Oh glory to His name
Verse 3
The Alpha and Omega
Beginning and the End
The Living Word incarnate
The helpless sinner's friend
Our wisdom and perfection
Our righteousness and power
Yea all we need in Jesus
We find this very hour
Verse 4
Our God for whom we've waited
Will be the glad refrain
Of Israel recreated
When Jesus comes again
Lo He will come and save us
Our King and Priest to be
For in Him dwells all fullness
And Lord of All is He
Chorus
It's all in Him
It's all in Him
The fullness of the Godhead is all in Him
It's all in Him
It's all in Him
The Mighty God is Jesus and
It's all in Him
For shame, for shame, for shame!
I went looking online for lyrics to the song "All In Him" and it is posted nowhere!!!! What I did find was site after site that talked about His name(s) but then said He is part of the Trinity. One site even said in it's listing, "OUR Prince of Peace? OUR Everlasting Father? OUR Mighty God? .... So Jesus cannot be THE TRUE GOD but he is designated with the title "God" ..."
WHAT?
I recently was on Youtube...which I try to limit my use of...and was listening to a song by Kirk Franklin. The lyrics were the "video" and at the end, there was an ad for a United Pentecostal Church back East. In this video, the lyrics say that Jesus is the true son. second in the Godhead. Again, WHAT?
So, I posted this comment to the video: "Hello, I have one question! If you are an UPC church, why do you have a song that talks about Jesus being the second in the trinity as an ad for your services?? Jesus IS God in the flesh and there is NO trinity in the Bible! He IS the First, the Last, the ONLY way!!"
The person who had posted the ad replied: "yeah! i agree with everything you said (your beliefs) but i liked the overall message of the song and to be honest i didn't realize it said that!
thanks for your concern!"
WHAT?
How can we allow the One God message not to be our clarion call??? If we are posting an ad for services, shouldn't we have songs, lyrics, etc. that proclaim WHO Jesus is? We definitely should not have a song that features the trinity!!! How confusing!!!
So, I am posting the words to the song, "All In Him" and hoping that now when someone does an online search, they will find this song that declares that Jesus is God!!
All In Him
by: George Farrow
Verse 1
The mighty God is Jesus
The Prince of Peace is He
The Everlasting Father
The King Eternally
The Wonderful in wisdom
By whom all things were made
The fullness of the Godhead
in Jesus is displayed
Verse 2
Emmanuel God with us
Jehovah Lord of hosts
The omnipresent Spirit
Who fills the universe
The Advocate The High Priest
The Lamb for sinners slain
The Author of redemption
Oh glory to His name
Verse 3
The Alpha and Omega
Beginning and the End
The Living Word incarnate
The helpless sinner's friend
Our wisdom and perfection
Our righteousness and power
Yea all we need in Jesus
We find this very hour
Verse 4
Our God for whom we've waited
Will be the glad refrain
Of Israel recreated
When Jesus comes again
Lo He will come and save us
Our King and Priest to be
For in Him dwells all fullness
And Lord of All is He
Chorus
It's all in Him
It's all in Him
The fullness of the Godhead is all in Him
It's all in Him
It's all in Him
The Mighty God is Jesus and
It's all in Him
Friday, October 24, 2008
OUCH!!!
Well, I have been super busy with my 30 hour work week, 12.5 units of college courses, running the Music Department at ILC and trying to get the Christmas music ready for our concert on the 16th of Dec., while being Mommy and Wife! I am exhausted and think I may even be anemic right now. So, needless to say, when my husband asked me at the horrible hour of 5 AM to awake, arise, and attend to the moving of my Sequoia from behind his Matrix, I stumbled out of bed to accommodate him.
That stumbling continued as I slid on some clothes and a pair of shoes, walked down the hallway to my purse where I got my keys and then out the back door. It was pitch black outside and I started down the stairs. I took one more step to what I thought would be solid ground and CRASH I fell down 2 steps and found myself lying on the ground in pain.
My right hand was hurting extremely bad while my left leg felt like it was on fire. I called out for Mark to come help me but he didn't hear me. Since the neighbors were all still asleep (like most sane people are at that hour of the day) I didn't want to call out too loud. I sat there stunned for a moment and then tried to rise. My body did not cooperate with me and I will admit, I started crying. Every inch of my body hurt. And wait, what was that? Something just dripped off the end of my Right middle finger!!!
I started crying harder as the feeling of excrutiating pain continued to throb in my left leg. I tried calling for Mark several times. Finally, he heard me and came rushing down the stairs, panicked that I was seriously hurt. He admonished me for not screaming!
He helped me back into the house where Marissa, who had heard her Dad running down the stairs and his exclamations, now had arisen from her slumber. Since Mark needed to get on the road for work, Marissa told him not to worry and started cleaning up all my wounds.
The tip of my R middle finger is sliced open, my hips are bruised, my left calf is shredded, and while cleaning me up, we discovered that what I thought was a pinched toe (shoes were too tight) was really another pool of blood. The tip of that Left pinky toe is shredded as well.
I could include pictures, but it is pretty nasty and I don't want to upset anyone!
I am hobbling around with the leg rubbing against my skirt, a toe that screams everytime I take a step, and a finger that I keep bumping since I didn't realize that I use it soooo much!
One bright bit of news. I am attending a "closet sale" tomorrow at my friends home!!! Can't wait for the bargains!!!
That stumbling continued as I slid on some clothes and a pair of shoes, walked down the hallway to my purse where I got my keys and then out the back door. It was pitch black outside and I started down the stairs. I took one more step to what I thought would be solid ground and CRASH I fell down 2 steps and found myself lying on the ground in pain.
My right hand was hurting extremely bad while my left leg felt like it was on fire. I called out for Mark to come help me but he didn't hear me. Since the neighbors were all still asleep (like most sane people are at that hour of the day) I didn't want to call out too loud. I sat there stunned for a moment and then tried to rise. My body did not cooperate with me and I will admit, I started crying. Every inch of my body hurt. And wait, what was that? Something just dripped off the end of my Right middle finger!!!
I started crying harder as the feeling of excrutiating pain continued to throb in my left leg. I tried calling for Mark several times. Finally, he heard me and came rushing down the stairs, panicked that I was seriously hurt. He admonished me for not screaming!
He helped me back into the house where Marissa, who had heard her Dad running down the stairs and his exclamations, now had arisen from her slumber. Since Mark needed to get on the road for work, Marissa told him not to worry and started cleaning up all my wounds.
The tip of my R middle finger is sliced open, my hips are bruised, my left calf is shredded, and while cleaning me up, we discovered that what I thought was a pinched toe (shoes were too tight) was really another pool of blood. The tip of that Left pinky toe is shredded as well.
I could include pictures, but it is pretty nasty and I don't want to upset anyone!
I am hobbling around with the leg rubbing against my skirt, a toe that screams everytime I take a step, and a finger that I keep bumping since I didn't realize that I use it soooo much!
One bright bit of news. I am attending a "closet sale" tomorrow at my friends home!!! Can't wait for the bargains!!!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
"Broken" Joy????
I just realized I haven't been using the word "joy" in my titles lately and so I thought I would try it out for this post. However, it doesn't make much sense! LOL
The broken part of the title has to do with my daughter, Marissa. Yes, we have officially had our first broken bone in the family. Marissa broke her wrist at some point this last week. As mothers often do, we think the child is exaggerating and tell them it will be alright. Well, I decided to do a litmus test of sorts and see if Marissa had really injured it or if it was just sore from an activity or something.
Tuesday night, Marissa was asleep, SOUND asleep, and it was around 11 PM. She had been in bed for two hours or so. I went in to check on her and I probed her hand and wrist gently. She had it resting on a cute stuffed dog and squirmed a little with my initial probes. Then I squeezed her wrist gently. She sat up, screaming out in pain, and pushed me away with her other hand!! I felt awful to say the least. However, once she had me pushed away, she sniffled a little, snuggled back up to her doggie, and fell into a fitful sleep. Now, I knew she wasn't faking or exaggerating and I knew I had to take her to the doctor.
The doctor had x-rays taken and found a chip in her inner wrist. The nurse splinted the arm and referred us to an Orthopedic Surgeon. So, I have been calling Dr.'s this morning and finally found one who will see her this afternoon.
She complains about it hurting and so I am asking for my blogging friends to pray for her healing.
Not much joy in the tale, but I AM joyous that we have a God who heals and who has given Doctors the knowledge and skills to help in that process if needed!!
The broken part of the title has to do with my daughter, Marissa. Yes, we have officially had our first broken bone in the family. Marissa broke her wrist at some point this last week. As mothers often do, we think the child is exaggerating and tell them it will be alright. Well, I decided to do a litmus test of sorts and see if Marissa had really injured it or if it was just sore from an activity or something.
Tuesday night, Marissa was asleep, SOUND asleep, and it was around 11 PM. She had been in bed for two hours or so. I went in to check on her and I probed her hand and wrist gently. She had it resting on a cute stuffed dog and squirmed a little with my initial probes. Then I squeezed her wrist gently. She sat up, screaming out in pain, and pushed me away with her other hand!! I felt awful to say the least. However, once she had me pushed away, she sniffled a little, snuggled back up to her doggie, and fell into a fitful sleep. Now, I knew she wasn't faking or exaggerating and I knew I had to take her to the doctor.
The doctor had x-rays taken and found a chip in her inner wrist. The nurse splinted the arm and referred us to an Orthopedic Surgeon. So, I have been calling Dr.'s this morning and finally found one who will see her this afternoon.
She complains about it hurting and so I am asking for my blogging friends to pray for her healing.
Not much joy in the tale, but I AM joyous that we have a God who heals and who has given Doctors the knowledge and skills to help in that process if needed!!
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Another Special Day!!!
YES! We have two birthdays back to back!
Today is Marissa's 14th Birthday!!!
Happy Birthday, Rissa!!!
She was co-partaker of yesterday's beach and shopping trip with Jessica. (see pics below) Today we had church so nothing real exciting happened for Rissa. EXCEPT that BOTH her siblings went home with someone from church for the afternoon so she got Mom and Dad to herself!!! She thought that was awesome.
I made Chicken Parmigiana and Fettucine Alfredo accompanied by Garlic Cheese Ciabatta Bread for lunch. Marissa helped me a little because she has made the chicken before and I have not. It was delicious! We followed it up with an Angel Food cake with a sweet Raspberry sauce over it! I didn't get pictures of her cake though. Sorry!
Yummy!!
Today is Marissa's 14th Birthday!!!
Happy Birthday, Rissa!!!
She was co-partaker of yesterday's beach and shopping trip with Jessica. (see pics below) Today we had church so nothing real exciting happened for Rissa. EXCEPT that BOTH her siblings went home with someone from church for the afternoon so she got Mom and Dad to herself!!! She thought that was awesome.
I made Chicken Parmigiana and Fettucine Alfredo accompanied by Garlic Cheese Ciabatta Bread for lunch. Marissa helped me a little because she has made the chicken before and I have not. It was delicious! We followed it up with an Angel Food cake with a sweet Raspberry sauce over it! I didn't get pictures of her cake though. Sorry!
Yummy!!
Marissa,
Keep being strong. Your strong will can keep you on the right track with God if you let it! Tonight, at church, we received our deliverance from whatever has hindered us in the past. Stand firm on the belief that God has delivered you and will take you all the way!!
You are such a blessing to me! You cook almost all our meals, keep the kitchen clean (most of the time), and keep an eye on your siblings when needed. You also bless me and ILC Music. Running back and forth looking for sheet music, making copies, handing out calendars and notices. I couldn't do it without you!!!!
I just know that God has BIG plans for you, Ris. Keep that strong will (just don't use it against mom and dad, ok?) It will help you overcome all obstacles as you mature and become who Marissa is supposed to be. Remember, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!! That is your verse...Don't forget it!!! Have faith in God and let Him make you what He wants you to be! I can't wait to see what God has in store for you!!!
Hope your day was blessed and that you know you are much loved by Mom and Dad!!!!
Te amo mucho!! I love you forever, to the moon and back, to infinity, always and forever!
Mom
Saturday, October 4, 2008
SpEcIaL DaY FoR A SpEcIaL YoUnG LaDy!
Happy Birthday, Jessi!!!!!!!
Jessica Lenae McVay, a very special part of my life, turned 12 today!!!
Jessica Lenae McVay, a very special part of my life, turned 12 today!!!
I can't believe she is already 12, it seems like only yesterday we were bringing her home from the hospital; a tiny, chubby, bundle of sweetness! And now, according to this website she is in the youth group at church! WAIT!!!! I am not ready for a second kid to escort to the myriad youth activities, prayer meetings, and such!!!! Unfortunately, it doesn't matter if I am ready or not. Jessica IS ready and time marches on!
Marissa and I have had a fun day planned for Jessi all week and actually managed to keep it a secret!!! We woke her up and told her we had to have a cake to the church by 9. We really did have a cake to take for the Men's Meeting at ILC today. However, the cake could have been taken later but we were meeting Sarah Booker and her girls for a day of shopping and a trip to the beach. We went shopping in the O.C. and then headed to Newport Beach for some fun in the water.
Here are some pictures of Jessica, Marissa, and Natalya having a blast in the surf and then in the sand.
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After we got home, we had Jessi's favorite Pizza, Hawaiian Style, and then had cake. Marissa made the cake and it was delicious!
Marissa and I have had a fun day planned for Jessi all week and actually managed to keep it a secret!!! We woke her up and told her we had to have a cake to the church by 9. We really did have a cake to take for the Men's Meeting at ILC today. However, the cake could have been taken later but we were meeting Sarah Booker and her girls for a day of shopping and a trip to the beach. We went shopping in the O.C. and then headed to Newport Beach for some fun in the water.
Here are some pictures of Jessica, Marissa, and Natalya having a blast in the surf and then in the sand.
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Jessica, I love you so much! I hope you have had a fun day and enjoy your purchases (and the sand you will keep finding in the most unlikely spots for a while, LOL) for a long time to come. You are a beautiful young lady who has a bright future. You can be whatever you want to be. Just remember to always put God first and to serve Him with all your heart, mind soul. Do Mom and Dad a favor, okay? Slow down, don't rush the future so fast. Enjoy your teen years, make lots of friends, win souls, and quit worrying about boys! YUCK!! Remember, you can't date until after you are married! LOL No, really! We will think about letting you like boys when you are about 30. :) Okay, how about 18? Think about it. You can finish school without all the drama of a boyfriend, stay pure, and maybe even decide to wait on dating until you are finished with college??? That way you will have had plenty of time to mature and be ready for all the curve balls that a relationship can throw your way! You make me so proud to be your Mom! Thank you for loving the Lord and for trying hard to do what will please Him! Again, keep Him first in everything! Love you forever, to the moon and back, till the cows come home and pigs fly!!! Muah! Mom
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Birth Verses - Scriptures to Live By
Hebrews 4:16 NIV
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence,
so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Jana's - April 16
1 John 4:15 NIV
If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God,
God lives in him and he in God.
Mark's - April 15
2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God,
and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Marissa's - October 5
Romans 10:4 NIV
Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.
Jessica's - October 4
Ephesians 3:12 NIV
In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Justin's - March 12
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence,
so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Jana's - April 16
1 John 4:15 NIV
If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God,
God lives in him and he in God.
Mark's - April 15
2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God,
and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Marissa's - October 5
Romans 10:4 NIV
Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.
Jessica's - October 4
Ephesians 3:12 NIV
In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Justin's - March 12
Monday, September 29, 2008
Google allows pro-life ads after settling lawsuit
I received this information via an e-mail from Crosswalk Presents.
We have freedom of speech in America but until this victory Google did not allow that freedom in advertising regarding abortion. Thank you, Google, for listening to your users and adhering to our Constitutional right of freedom of speech. It is sad that it took a lawsuit for you to change your policy but you listened and did the right thing.
The link below takes you to an informational video about this victory and the history of the issue.
Google allows pro-life ads after settling lawsuit
Posted using ShareThis
We have freedom of speech in America but until this victory Google did not allow that freedom in advertising regarding abortion. Thank you, Google, for listening to your users and adhering to our Constitutional right of freedom of speech. It is sad that it took a lawsuit for you to change your policy but you listened and did the right thing.
The link below takes you to an informational video about this victory and the history of the issue.
Google allows pro-life ads after settling lawsuit
Posted using ShareThis
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Tag...I Am It!!!
Ms. Bekki Leigh tagged me on her blog...6 Unspectacular Facts about me.
1) I am only 5 foot 2
2) I hate sweating, especially while at church on the piano! But I seem to do it often.
3) I hate my nails, they are seriously messed up forever from the piano (and YES, I kept them short growing up)
4) I hate coconut....REALLY, REALLY, REALLY hate it!
5) I just walked a mile and then shared a frappuccino with my girls....HAHAHA
6) I have an algebra midterm tomorrow at 9 AM, ugh
I tag:
Katie , Chris , Kendra , Jacque , Erica, Random
terms & conditions:
1. link the person who tagged you
2. mention the rules on your blog
3. list 6 unspectacular things about you
4. tag 6 other bloggers
Friday, September 19, 2008
No Joy Today - Just sorrow - Time to Make Some Decisions
I received a sad call today. My cousin, Rob, who seemed to be improving from his stroke, died. He had regained consciousness last week and was severely depressed by his paralysis and prognosis. The doctors did everything they could to help him through the depression which is normal thing when faced with a situation of this magnitude. However, early this week, Rob's kidneys failed him and damaged his heart. He had a massive heart attack and was revived because he did not have DNR, Do Not Resucitate, on file. The doctors told my aunt that Rob would never come home after the kidney failure completely destroyed his kidneys. They said he would, if he recovered from the heart attack, spend the rest of his life on dialysis 24 hours a day. Well, faced with that disturbing prognosis and knowing how Rob felt about this horrible turn in his life, my aunt and her family were faced with the decision of whether to leave Rob on life support, waiting for him to recover from the heart attack and then watch him suffer the rest of his life, OR, let him go. They made the heart wrenching decision to let him go.
My aunt has now been faced with this agnonizing decision twice in her life. Now, with Rob, and years ago when she and my mom and their brothers had to decide whether to take my Grandmother off life support. She had suffered a massive aneurysm and never regained consciouness. The decision back then was the same that my aunt, uncle and their other two children made today. However, my grandmother had slipped from this world just before they went to tell the doctors of their decision.
This brings up a vital issue. Do you have a preference regarding the care you would receive in the event of a catastrophic illness or injury? My mother was going home to talk to my brother about making that decision now, signing a form that states that decision, and carrying it with him at all times. She does not want to be put in the position my aunt was in today. She told me, "Once was enough and I don't want to have to decide something like that about one of my kids!"
Mark and I recently filled out Living Wills and had them documented with a lawyer. In the will, we state our preference so that none of our family members will be faced with having to make a decision about something so tragic. Have you written out your preferences? Have you even discussed those preferences with your loved ones? If you have children, don't leave that decision up to them in the future. Also, a Living Will allows you to put into writing what you want to happen to your children should you die. Who you want them to live with, what cherished items you want them to have, etc. can be documented there as well.
Don't wait. Take care of planning for any eventuallity today! And that includes making sure you have a Living Will, signed and documented with the blood of Jesus Christ! Are you saved? Have you been baptized in Jesus' name? Don't leave that decision to fate. Ensure your future and get your name written in the Book of Life and also take care of those earthly decisions as well!
Please pray for the Fairchild family as they grieve the loss of my cousin.
My aunt has now been faced with this agnonizing decision twice in her life. Now, with Rob, and years ago when she and my mom and their brothers had to decide whether to take my Grandmother off life support. She had suffered a massive aneurysm and never regained consciouness. The decision back then was the same that my aunt, uncle and their other two children made today. However, my grandmother had slipped from this world just before they went to tell the doctors of their decision.
This brings up a vital issue. Do you have a preference regarding the care you would receive in the event of a catastrophic illness or injury? My mother was going home to talk to my brother about making that decision now, signing a form that states that decision, and carrying it with him at all times. She does not want to be put in the position my aunt was in today. She told me, "Once was enough and I don't want to have to decide something like that about one of my kids!"
Mark and I recently filled out Living Wills and had them documented with a lawyer. In the will, we state our preference so that none of our family members will be faced with having to make a decision about something so tragic. Have you written out your preferences? Have you even discussed those preferences with your loved ones? If you have children, don't leave that decision up to them in the future. Also, a Living Will allows you to put into writing what you want to happen to your children should you die. Who you want them to live with, what cherished items you want them to have, etc. can be documented there as well.
Don't wait. Take care of planning for any eventuallity today! And that includes making sure you have a Living Will, signed and documented with the blood of Jesus Christ! Are you saved? Have you been baptized in Jesus' name? Don't leave that decision to fate. Ensure your future and get your name written in the Book of Life and also take care of those earthly decisions as well!
Please pray for the Fairchild family as they grieve the loss of my cousin.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Back to the Grind!
School is back in session. I am taking 12.5 units and working 30 hours a week at the college. I have had several AWESOME SI sessions in the first week! It was exciting when last Friday, most of the students day off from school, I opened a session and had 7 students attend. Talk about peer facilitated learning! We were able to use several different procedures to process the Public Speaking information we needed to learn for the first Identity Speech, which is an informative speech. I have only had two sessions where no one showed up. Last semester, my Speech 9 Interpersonal Communication class only had 4 students show up the whole semester. Two showed up for midterms and two more showed up for finals! So this year is promising to be much better!
The students in my Speech 1 Public Speaking class had their first speeches this week and it was quite interesting to hear all the different stories these students shared about who they are and what has influenced them. One student talked about his being in the Army and going to Iraq where he lost 8 of his platoon members within the first month. He also spoke about how those that survived the attack where these men died, came home with missing limbs, eyes gone, minds blown from the trauma. He also said that he is back in college to eventually become a Psychiatrist because he saw many of the wounded veterans being given anti-psychotic, anti-depressant, and pain killers to help them deal with their mental anguish and NOT receive adequate mental health care. I commend him for his service to our country and for his desire to help his fellow soldiers in the future.
Another student spoke about how her parents didn't like how she was growing up here in the U.S. and sent her to their native country the Philippines. She shared how the culture there was so different and how that as she was eating at a McDonald's each day at lunch, she would see the children begging in the streets, willing to eat her left overs. This impacted her greatly and she learned the value of money and how to appreciate everything she had. It also taught her humility and respect for other cultures, adults, and to value her education more. She had a huge picture of herself as her visual aid and it was missing a piece, like a puzzle. As she closed her speech, she said that her parents sending her to the Philippines helped her to find the missing part of who she was. It was quite impressive and powerful.
Other topics included: influence of parents, being the first to graduate from high school in their family, car wrecks, sports culture and coaches, having babies young, music and its' influences, and other topics. I would say 90% of the students did VERY well for their first speech.
Now that the ID speeches are over, it is time to start working with them on their Demonstration speeches and Chapter Seminars. So tomorrow I hope I will have students attend the sessions and we can get going on these new speeches.
OH, and I joined the Speech and Debate team! SCARY! Not really but it is something different for me. I am looking into two different Informative topics and one Persuasive topic. I also plan to do a Oral Interpretation of Prose. So, pray for me to do well. I must attend two tournaments and I want to do well.
The students in my Speech 1 Public Speaking class had their first speeches this week and it was quite interesting to hear all the different stories these students shared about who they are and what has influenced them. One student talked about his being in the Army and going to Iraq where he lost 8 of his platoon members within the first month. He also spoke about how those that survived the attack where these men died, came home with missing limbs, eyes gone, minds blown from the trauma. He also said that he is back in college to eventually become a Psychiatrist because he saw many of the wounded veterans being given anti-psychotic, anti-depressant, and pain killers to help them deal with their mental anguish and NOT receive adequate mental health care. I commend him for his service to our country and for his desire to help his fellow soldiers in the future.
Another student spoke about how her parents didn't like how she was growing up here in the U.S. and sent her to their native country the Philippines. She shared how the culture there was so different and how that as she was eating at a McDonald's each day at lunch, she would see the children begging in the streets, willing to eat her left overs. This impacted her greatly and she learned the value of money and how to appreciate everything she had. It also taught her humility and respect for other cultures, adults, and to value her education more. She had a huge picture of herself as her visual aid and it was missing a piece, like a puzzle. As she closed her speech, she said that her parents sending her to the Philippines helped her to find the missing part of who she was. It was quite impressive and powerful.
Other topics included: influence of parents, being the first to graduate from high school in their family, car wrecks, sports culture and coaches, having babies young, music and its' influences, and other topics. I would say 90% of the students did VERY well for their first speech.
Now that the ID speeches are over, it is time to start working with them on their Demonstration speeches and Chapter Seminars. So tomorrow I hope I will have students attend the sessions and we can get going on these new speeches.
OH, and I joined the Speech and Debate team! SCARY! Not really but it is something different for me. I am looking into two different Informative topics and one Persuasive topic. I also plan to do a Oral Interpretation of Prose. So, pray for me to do well. I must attend two tournaments and I want to do well.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Urgent Prayer Request
I have an urgent prayer request. My cousin, Rob, who is in his mid 30's, suffered a stroke sometime Monday night. He was found by his brother, unconcious, after they couldn't wake him and he seemed to be ignoring his alarm clock for over an hour. He is in neurological intensive care, in a drug induced "coma", with a hemorraghic bleed between his left and right hemispheres. The location of the bleed makes it impossible for the doctors to operate and repair it. They think he may be paralyzed on his right side and now his kidneys are failing. He asphyxiated when the stroke originally occured and is on a ventilator.
Since they are in Fort Worth, I called the church where Steve Pixler pastors to see if Bro. Pixler could go and pray for Rob and with my Aunt Louise and Uncle Robert. Bro. Pixler was out of town so another minister, Bro. Litke, called me for the pertinent information and went to the hospital tonight. Bro. Litke called after the visit to let me know that he was able to visit with my family and pray with them. He also said that Pastor Flowers from Mesquite was on his way to visit the family as well. Bro. Litke promised to send out an email prayer request to their church family so that there would be continued prayer for Rob's healing and salvation. I am so thankful for the body of Christ who, when notified of a need, are willing to go the extra mile and who bombard heaven with their prayers.
Please pray that God heals Rob and gives him an opportunity to come to know the Lord in a more powerful way. I appreciate you and covet your prayers for Rob's healing.
Since they are in Fort Worth, I called the church where Steve Pixler pastors to see if Bro. Pixler could go and pray for Rob and with my Aunt Louise and Uncle Robert. Bro. Pixler was out of town so another minister, Bro. Litke, called me for the pertinent information and went to the hospital tonight. Bro. Litke called after the visit to let me know that he was able to visit with my family and pray with them. He also said that Pastor Flowers from Mesquite was on his way to visit the family as well. Bro. Litke promised to send out an email prayer request to their church family so that there would be continued prayer for Rob's healing and salvation. I am so thankful for the body of Christ who, when notified of a need, are willing to go the extra mile and who bombard heaven with their prayers.
Please pray that God heals Rob and gives him an opportunity to come to know the Lord in a more powerful way. I appreciate you and covet your prayers for Rob's healing.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Finally....A new post
Sorry I have been so remiss here lately. It has been exactly one month since I last posted. Lots of things have happened but nothing seemed like it just HAD to be blogged about! But here I sit tonight on the brink of a new semester of college. I will be taking 12.5 units and working 30 hours as a Supplemental Instruction Leader at Riverside Community College. Fortunately, I have been privileged to be rehired for my third semester as SIL. I will be SIL for two Public Speaking classes and one Interpersonal Communications class. It will be a busy, fun, and rewarding semester.
Thanks for coming back after such a long hiatus and visiting with me. Pray for me to do well with my classes and job and more importantly, let the light of Jesus shine through me so someone will be drawn to Him.
Thanks for coming back after such a long hiatus and visiting with me. Pray for me to do well with my classes and job and more importantly, let the light of Jesus shine through me so someone will be drawn to Him.
Friday, August 1, 2008
YUMMY!!!
Fresh peaches, right off a friend's tree. A little ginger. Biscuit dough topping.
Juicy, juicy, juicy peach cobbler.
Created by my future chef, Marissa.
Que Bueno!
Juicy, juicy, juicy peach cobbler.
Created by my future chef, Marissa.
Que Bueno!
This is my breakfast. No, it is not the meal of champions. However, it is de-lish!
Other recent creations include:
A Cupcake Cake...looks a lot like a Hostess cupcake, doesn't it?
Even had ooey gooey cream filling piped into the center.
It was SOOOO rich! Overload of chocolate! But yummy!
Ice cream cake for Justin's 10th birthday. This was quite tasty too and very easy to create.
Neopolitan ice cream bars layered with Cool Whip.
Then frosted with the same and add sprinkles.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Junior Camp
I am missing Junior Camp for the first time in eleven years!!!!
Eleven years ago, I attended two junior camps for two different sections, three weeks apart, and fell in love with working with young kids! I was the Music Director for section 2 UPCI Junior Camp for 10 years. I have sooooo many wonderful memories of those years and have made some life long friends!!
Memories of playing 007 with a group of people late in the night: fingers in the "gun" position, hiding behind trees, rolling down hills, crawling across the sports field in a skirt, just to sneek up on the "enemy" and shoot them with our finger guns. And telling them, "my name is Bond, Jane Bond". Memories of trash cans full of water being dumped on my friends heads at one in the morning; falling on the ground in front of a group of counselors late one night, and then having them show others the "crime scene" complete with a HUGE outline of where I fell; wrapping a fellow counselor's car with cellophane and caution tape; being the look out while other culprits zip tied the head counselor's shoes and other personal things to her bed, luggage, and such. Memories of long talks with junior staff about making the right choices in life; counseling young ladies after sensitive subjects were discussed in devotions; playing for 1-2 hours during altar call, and watching young people reach out for more from our Heavenly Father. Memories of tiny little boys and girls, 7 or 8 years old, following me around the camp, asking "when will the next choir practice be?", and "do I get to cut in front of the older kids for breakfast so I can be at choir on time?"
This year, no memories are being formed for me but they are for my kids. My dear friend, Holly, sent me pictures of my kids at camp this week. They are there now and I am at home! WAAAHHH!!! This year, the camp is in Jamul, CA. at the Indian Hills Campground. It looks like a really fun place and I hope to be able to go next year.
Here are two pictures of my younger kiddos. I love both pictures but especially the one of Justin in the altar!!!
Justin praying with a counselor.
What a moment! Arms raised in praise and surrender to God!
This one made me cry!
Jessica is the one in glasses.
She is the prettiest blue eyed girl I know!
And mischievous, as indicated by the bunny ear fingers. LOL
This one made me chuckle!
Eleven years ago, I attended two junior camps for two different sections, three weeks apart, and fell in love with working with young kids! I was the Music Director for section 2 UPCI Junior Camp for 10 years. I have sooooo many wonderful memories of those years and have made some life long friends!!
Memories of playing 007 with a group of people late in the night: fingers in the "gun" position, hiding behind trees, rolling down hills, crawling across the sports field in a skirt, just to sneek up on the "enemy" and shoot them with our finger guns. And telling them, "my name is Bond, Jane Bond". Memories of trash cans full of water being dumped on my friends heads at one in the morning; falling on the ground in front of a group of counselors late one night, and then having them show others the "crime scene" complete with a HUGE outline of where I fell; wrapping a fellow counselor's car with cellophane and caution tape; being the look out while other culprits zip tied the head counselor's shoes and other personal things to her bed, luggage, and such. Memories of long talks with junior staff about making the right choices in life; counseling young ladies after sensitive subjects were discussed in devotions; playing for 1-2 hours during altar call, and watching young people reach out for more from our Heavenly Father. Memories of tiny little boys and girls, 7 or 8 years old, following me around the camp, asking "when will the next choir practice be?", and "do I get to cut in front of the older kids for breakfast so I can be at choir on time?"
This year, no memories are being formed for me but they are for my kids. My dear friend, Holly, sent me pictures of my kids at camp this week. They are there now and I am at home! WAAAHHH!!! This year, the camp is in Jamul, CA. at the Indian Hills Campground. It looks like a really fun place and I hope to be able to go next year.
Here are two pictures of my younger kiddos. I love both pictures but especially the one of Justin in the altar!!!
Justin praying with a counselor.
What a moment! Arms raised in praise and surrender to God!
This one made me cry!
Jessica is the one in glasses.
She is the prettiest blue eyed girl I know!
And mischievous, as indicated by the bunny ear fingers. LOL
This one made me chuckle!
Thanks Holly!! I am blessed by your friendship and these pictures of my babies!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Getting It ALL Back!!!
Driving around while doing errands this morning, I was thinking about God and how merciful He is. A recent service (last night to be exact) brought me to a new level in my walk with God. No longer will I live at the altar of cyclical condemnation, never to feel the victory of sin washed in the blood and wiped from the pages of the Book of Life, to only feel relief for a short while before I run back to the altar to repent again for the same sins. While pondering these things and praising God, a couple of songs came to mind. Here are a portion of the lyrics from each song:
I Want It All Back
Tye Tribbett
(Verse 1)
You may have thought, you won that last round
You may have laughed (cuz) I almost fell down
Maybe you think I give up easy But its not ovah, I got more in me
You thought I stopped, you thought I sat down
But I am standin', you made me mad now!
You got some things, I think you owe me
I've come to get back everything that you stole
(Chorus)
I want it all back (repeated 4 times)
Faithful Is Our God
Hezekiah Walker
(Verse 1)
Faithful, Faithful Faithful is our God (repeat 3x)
I'm reaping the harvest God promised me
Take back what the devil stole from me
And I rejoice today, for I shall recover it all
And I rejoice today, for I shall recover it all.
Now, while thinking about these songs, I realized that I disagree with a line found in both songs. Both songs talk about taking back what the devil stole from us. I do not believe the devil "steals" from us, rather, we allow him access into areas that should be off limits and choose to let him have things he shouldn't be allowed to have.
I just read a commentary on the thief that comes to steal and to kill in the parable found in John 10:10 and found an interesting statement that correlates with my thought. The commentator makes this statement about a thief, "He enters not by the door, as having no lawful cause of entry, but climbs up some other way, at a window, or some breach in the wall." Our lack of faith and failure to stay prayed up and close to the Shepherd, causes a breach in our spiritual wall that allows the thief/satan to have access to our lives.
Are we seduced, enticed, lured, bewitched, or even tricked by the lies of the devil? Sure, we are. We are carnal by nature and when we are not prayed up like we should be, we can be enticed by the snares of old satan himself. However, though we may be "tricked", it is our choices that lead us to that place and our choices that determine the outcome of the enticement!
Will I still declare war on satan and the things he took that were by rights only mine and the Lord's? I sure will!!! Will I still sing the songs I referenced in this blog. Yes, I will. Only thing is, I wish I could sing...
"I'm reaping the harvest God promised me,
I'm taking back what I let the devil take from me...."
OR....
"You got some things, I think you owe me
I've come to get back everything that I let you steal from me...."
I've come to get back everything that I let you steal from me...."
Alas, those phrases don't quite fit into the songs the way the original words do! LOL
But I AM declaring war on the devil and AM determined to storm hell's gates and take back what I gave away in moments of weakness....
my faith when I struggled to believe God really cared about me...
my hope when I felt my sins were unforgivable and heaven was no longer an attainable goal...
my self-respect when I failed to withstand the enticements of the world and satan's snares...
my relationships with brothers and sisters in the Lord that were damaged by my misdeeds...
my musical ability/song writing that were held hostage by the cycle of condemnation...
I am taking back my prayer life, my Bible reading, my walk with God. I want a continual renewal of the Holy Ghost that is attainable only through sacrificing time from reading novels, playing games on the computer, blogging, surfing the Internet, hanging out with friends.
Lord, I want a renewal of Your anointing on my life, on my family, and on my ministry through the musical gift you have bestowed upon me.
I WANT IT ALL BACK!!!!!!!!!!
AND WITH GOD ON MY SIDE....
THE DEVIL DOESN'T STAND A CHANCE!!!!!
P.S. I did a spell check and the word "satan" was highlighted as misspelled. I CHOOSE to leave it "misspelled" with a lower case "s"! To me, he is just a small blip that just got smaller because I took back all my stuff that he was hoarding in his lair.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Refreshing Laughter
My last post was somewhat depressing but this one should bring you a chuckle. Thanks to Sis. Deborah J who sent me this via email. I have no idea where it originated but it is quite hilarious.
An elderly man on a Moped, looking about 100 years old, pulls up next to a doctor at a street light. The old man looks over at the sleek shiny car And asks, 'What kind of car ya got there, sonny?' The doctor replies, "A Ferrari GTO. It cost half a million dollars!" "That's a lot of money,' says the old man. "Why does it cost so much?” “Because this car can do up to 320 miles an hour!,” states the doctor proudly. The Moped driver asks, 'Mind if I take a look inside?" "No problem,' replies the doctor.
So the old man pokes his head in the window and looks around. Then, sitting back on his
Moped, the old man says, "That's a pretty nice car, all right... But I'll stick with my Moped." Just then the light changes, so the doctor decides to show the old man just what his car can do. He floors it, and within 30 seconds the Speedometer reads 160 mph. Suddenly, he notices a dot in his rear view mirror. It seems to be getting closer! He slows down to see what it could be and suddenly WHOOOOSSSHHH! Something whips by him going much faster.
"What on earth could be going faster than my Ferrari?" The Doctor asks himself.
He presses harder on the accelerator and takes the Ferrari up to 250 Mph. Then, up ahead of him, He sees that it's the old man on the Moped! Amazed that the Moped could pass his Ferrari, He gives it more gas and passes the Moped at 275 mph and he's feeling pretty good until he looks in his Mirror and sees the old man gaining on him AGAIN!
Astounded by the speed of this old guy, He floors the gas pedal and takes the Ferrari All the way up to 320 mph. Not ten seconds later, he sees the Moped bearing down on him again! The Ferrari is flat out, and there's nothing he can do!
Suddenly, the Moped plows into the back of his Ferrari, Demolishing the rear end. The doctor stops and jumps out and unbelievably the old man is still alive. He runs up to the banged-up old guy and says, “I’m a Doctor.... Is there anything I can do for you?”
The old man whispers,
“Unhook my suspenders from your side view mirror....”
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Troubled on every side by the folly of self-will
The last few days have been days of profound thought, intense prayer, and grave concern .
I have been thinking about people I know who have very recently decided, according to them, to do their own thing for a while. No more church, all its' rules and such for them. No sir, now they will have the freedom to do whatever, whenever, with whomever. Elbowroom to drink until they are so drunk they don't feel conviction when they sleep around on their spouse or significant other. Liberty to dress however they want, totally disregarding the Word of God which instructs us to be modest in apparel. Abandon to listen to or play music that fills their heads with hate, disregard for authority, lustful thoughts and vulgar lyrics.
My backsliding friends don't want to to do without the world and it's pleasures anymore. The strictures of the church and the commandments of the Bible are too much. They don't want to not wear make-up, dress modestly, abstain from alcohol and drugs, forgo the lust of the flesh. That is just too legalistic in their estimation.
The thought keeps coming to me about how inconsequential those little things we, as saints of God, choose to do without and refrain from partaking of are going to be in the scope of eternity. Will choosing to do your own thing and not following the Word of God, letting little things creep in and take over your salvation because you don't want to stand firm in the face of temptation, or thinking that the restrictions of the Bible are too taxing, be worth eternal damnation????
I would rather do without some things that "might" be okay but are asked of me by my pastor not to do. When I make heaven and perhaps find out that I could have done something I refrained from, it won't matter because I will have made it! But to stand in judgement, having chosen to do things I was counseled in the Word or by the pastor not to do, and find out that because of my wickedness God "knows me not" would be a hellish torment in and of itself.
I have been praying for my friends, family, the lost, the church, and myself to make it all the way to heaven where we will hear "Well done thou good and faithful servant." I desperately want to hear those words spoken by our God!! I have shed copious tears for those who, by their own folly, are blinded to the signs of the endtime and the Lord's soon return. I have prayed for wisdom to minister to my children, my family, my friends and those whom I meet along the way.
A phrase keeps resounding in my head.
"Self-willed whims wreak havoc with the health and wealth of a soul."
I know I have allowed my self-will to damage my walk with God in the past but I am eternally grateful that God is faithful to forgive when we repent and TURN away from our wicked self-willed ways. I told someone today, "As long as we are human, we can still be tempted and fall if we are not prayed up and close to our Saviour." I don't want to return to my folly, the vomit of sin (sorry to be so graphic), self recrimination or being far from the anointing of God!! I want my will to be submitted, surrendered, and God-centered!!!!!!
Please, my blogger friends, don't be lax in these last days.
Press toward the mark of the high calling of God!!
Persevere.
Submit.
Pray.
Fast.
Witness.
Just don't let your self-willed whims wreak havoc with your soul. Stay healthy and wealthy in your soul. Store up treasures, prayers, and blessing in the storehouses of heaven. Make it all the way!
I am praying for you! Please, pray for me! Let's make heaven our home!
I have been thinking about people I know who have very recently decided, according to them, to do their own thing for a while. No more church, all its' rules and such for them. No sir, now they will have the freedom to do whatever, whenever, with whomever. Elbowroom to drink until they are so drunk they don't feel conviction when they sleep around on their spouse or significant other. Liberty to dress however they want, totally disregarding the Word of God which instructs us to be modest in apparel. Abandon to listen to or play music that fills their heads with hate, disregard for authority, lustful thoughts and vulgar lyrics.
My backsliding friends don't want to to do without the world and it's pleasures anymore. The strictures of the church and the commandments of the Bible are too much. They don't want to not wear make-up, dress modestly, abstain from alcohol and drugs, forgo the lust of the flesh. That is just too legalistic in their estimation.
The thought keeps coming to me about how inconsequential those little things we, as saints of God, choose to do without and refrain from partaking of are going to be in the scope of eternity. Will choosing to do your own thing and not following the Word of God, letting little things creep in and take over your salvation because you don't want to stand firm in the face of temptation, or thinking that the restrictions of the Bible are too taxing, be worth eternal damnation????
I would rather do without some things that "might" be okay but are asked of me by my pastor not to do. When I make heaven and perhaps find out that I could have done something I refrained from, it won't matter because I will have made it! But to stand in judgement, having chosen to do things I was counseled in the Word or by the pastor not to do, and find out that because of my wickedness God "knows me not" would be a hellish torment in and of itself.
I have been praying for my friends, family, the lost, the church, and myself to make it all the way to heaven where we will hear "Well done thou good and faithful servant." I desperately want to hear those words spoken by our God!! I have shed copious tears for those who, by their own folly, are blinded to the signs of the endtime and the Lord's soon return. I have prayed for wisdom to minister to my children, my family, my friends and those whom I meet along the way.
A phrase keeps resounding in my head.
"Self-willed whims wreak havoc with the health and wealth of a soul."
I know I have allowed my self-will to damage my walk with God in the past but I am eternally grateful that God is faithful to forgive when we repent and TURN away from our wicked self-willed ways. I told someone today, "As long as we are human, we can still be tempted and fall if we are not prayed up and close to our Saviour." I don't want to return to my folly, the vomit of sin (sorry to be so graphic), self recrimination or being far from the anointing of God!! I want my will to be submitted, surrendered, and God-centered!!!!!!
Please, my blogger friends, don't be lax in these last days.
Press toward the mark of the high calling of God!!
Persevere.
Submit.
Pray.
Fast.
Witness.
Just don't let your self-willed whims wreak havoc with your soul. Stay healthy and wealthy in your soul. Store up treasures, prayers, and blessing in the storehouses of heaven. Make it all the way!
I am praying for you! Please, pray for me! Let's make heaven our home!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Jesus, The Mention Of Your Name: By Donnie McClurkin
What power we can access at JUST the mention of HIS name!! Thank you, Jesus!!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Some Rockin' Humor
I got these from an email from Pastor Tim's CleanLaugh Issue #3211 today. Just thought I would share a little laughter since it is biblically recognized as the "best medicine" on earth!
Enjoy....
Rock and Roll Re-Releases*
Everybody is remaking their oldies hits!
- Herman's Hermits - "Mrs. Brown, You've Got A Lovely Walker"
- The Bee Gees - "How Can You Mend A Broken Hip"
- The Temptations - "Papa's Got A Kidney Stone"
- Ringo Starr - "I Get By With A Little Help From Depends"
- Marvin Gaye - "I Heard It Through The Grape Nuts"
- Procol Harem - "A Whiter Shade Of Hair"
- Johnny Nash - "I Can't See Clearly Now"
- Leo Sayer - "You Make Me Feel Like Napping"
- ABBA - "Denture Queen"
- Paul Simon - "Fifty Ways To Lose Your Liver"
- Roberta Flack - "The First Time I Ever Forgot Your Face"
- Commodores - "Once, Twice, Three Times To The Bathroom"
- Bobby Darin - "Splish, Splash, I Was Havin' A Flash"
Enjoy....
Rock and Roll Re-Releases*
Everybody is remaking their oldies hits!
- Herman's Hermits - "Mrs. Brown, You've Got A Lovely Walker"
- The Bee Gees - "How Can You Mend A Broken Hip"
- The Temptations - "Papa's Got A Kidney Stone"
- Ringo Starr - "I Get By With A Little Help From Depends"
- Marvin Gaye - "I Heard It Through The Grape Nuts"
- Procol Harem - "A Whiter Shade Of Hair"
- Johnny Nash - "I Can't See Clearly Now"
- Leo Sayer - "You Make Me Feel Like Napping"
- ABBA - "Denture Queen"
- Paul Simon - "Fifty Ways To Lose Your Liver"
- Roberta Flack - "The First Time I Ever Forgot Your Face"
- Commodores - "Once, Twice, Three Times To The Bathroom"
- Bobby Darin - "Splish, Splash, I Was Havin' A Flash"
Friday, June 13, 2008
***JOYFUL NEWS FLASH***
I know. I know, I know!!! I have been remiss at blogging over the last few months as I completed my classes and graduated. I apologize!! Today, I will attempt to catch you up with what has been happening around here! Formatted in short news flashes, accompanied by photos, I will now correct my blogging short-comings! LOL
R-I-N-G-O and Ringo was his name-o! We decided to adopt a dog and this is the one my husband chose. However, we live in a mobile home and after we had Ringo for three days, we realized that he just was too big for the yard and it was unfair to keep him cooped up. So, we adopted him out to a family who has land out in the Hemet area. Ringo was a beautiful dog and we enjoyed having him while he was with us.
R-I-N-G-O and Ringo was his name-o! We decided to adopt a dog and this is the one my husband chose. However, we live in a mobile home and after we had Ringo for three days, we realized that he just was too big for the yard and it was unfair to keep him cooped up. So, we adopted him out to a family who has land out in the Hemet area. Ringo was a beautiful dog and we enjoyed having him while he was with us.
Our next adventure led us to the March AirForce Reserve base for an airshow. I had not attended one of these in years and Mark, Justin and I had a blast! We got to tour the inside of several HUGE military transport planes. This picture shows Justin (in the brown ballcap bottom center) watching an old model bi-plane fly sidewards. It was a very HOT day and we only stayed for a few hours, so we missed the F-14's. However, next year I plan on the whole family attending the show and making a WHOLE day of it! The lady in the bottom left corner is Sis. Carol Chirby from ILC. She and her husband,Tim, were there as well as the Letwinch family from Indio (her daughter's family.)
Next we have something MOST of you will never get to take part in! This was the second time for Mark, Justin and Hermano Luis! Five years ago, Mark took the family and Hermano Luis to ride on the Goodyear blimp, yes!, the blimp!!!!! In May, Mark was able to take Justin, Luis, Ronnie Sanchez and his little boy Joseph. Here are a couple of pictures from their adventure!
The Spirit of America coming in for a landing. Ronnie, Justin, Joseph, and Luis waiting.
The crew going out to meet the airship. Justin in the front passenger seat!
Looking out over the port of Long Beach.
This is Hermano Luis Honesto. He simply LOVES to ride the blimp! He already is asking if it will take another five years to get another opportunity! LOL
Mark is already working on arranging a ride for his co-workers who at last minute bowed out of this last ride. Their loss was Mark's and the guy's gain!
We next travel to Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, Ca. This was a VERY interesting day! Jessica and her sixth grade choir traveled to Burbank to perform for a Festival of Choirs and then spent the rest of the day at Six Flags. Jessi had never ridden a BIG roller coaster so we rode little ones and then tackled Colossus. She was nervous but by the end she claimed she really liked the ride. We had a blast....melted shoes, shopping til you drop, geese-a-walking, batteries dying in the camera WAY too often, eighty kids on a bus, two hour ride home on a yellow school bus without air....
My baby was promoted from 5th grade to 6th this week!! Where did the time go? It seems like he was just born and now he is a middle schooler?????!!!! WHAT???? Here are a couple of pictures of his promotion and when he received an award for the Principal's Honor Roll.
Justin is the little guy third from the left. Here he is with his class as they are promoted.
Precious!!!!
For the Grand Finale of this eternally long news flash post, MY GRADUATION!!!!!!!
Entering the stadium....I am the one just behind the photographer.
Walking forward to receive my degrees, my Speech instructors whom I worked with
wanted a picture....so here I am holding up the line....LOL
WHAT???? There is only a letter from the chancellor in here!!!! Where's the degree???
Photo op with my family!!! Thank you all for supporting Mom while she achieved her goal!!!
Love you ALL!!!
So, I hope you have enjoyed the News flash catch up session....
Come back soon for pictures of my party, my newly painted house, new drapes I am attempting to make this week and a myriad of other fun facts from Jana!!
Thanks for stopping by!!
Next we have something MOST of you will never get to take part in! This was the second time for Mark, Justin and Hermano Luis! Five years ago, Mark took the family and Hermano Luis to ride on the Goodyear blimp, yes!, the blimp!!!!! In May, Mark was able to take Justin, Luis, Ronnie Sanchez and his little boy Joseph. Here are a couple of pictures from their adventure!
The Spirit of America coming in for a landing. Ronnie, Justin, Joseph, and Luis waiting.
The crew going out to meet the airship. Justin in the front passenger seat!
Looking out over the port of Long Beach.
This is Hermano Luis Honesto. He simply LOVES to ride the blimp! He already is asking if it will take another five years to get another opportunity! LOLMark is already working on arranging a ride for his co-workers who at last minute bowed out of this last ride. Their loss was Mark's and the guy's gain!
We next travel to Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, Ca. This was a VERY interesting day! Jessica and her sixth grade choir traveled to Burbank to perform for a Festival of Choirs and then spent the rest of the day at Six Flags. Jessi had never ridden a BIG roller coaster so we rode little ones and then tackled Colossus. She was nervous but by the end she claimed she really liked the ride. We had a blast....melted shoes, shopping til you drop, geese-a-walking, batteries dying in the camera WAY too often, eighty kids on a bus, two hour ride home on a yellow school bus without air....
Jessi waiting in line for Colossus Colossus is the wooden roller coaster behind the
trees. Goliath, a death defying monstrosity,
is the orange and blue coaster on the right.
trees. Goliath, a death defying monstrosity,
is the orange and blue coaster on the right.
A mama goose and her chicks walking thru the theme park!
I think papa goose is bringing up the rear but since I am not an
expert on geese, I am not sure if he/she was papa or maybe
just an auntie. LOL
******************************BIG NEWS FLASH HERE********************************I think papa goose is bringing up the rear but since I am not an
expert on geese, I am not sure if he/she was papa or maybe
just an auntie. LOL
My baby was promoted from 5th grade to 6th this week!! Where did the time go? It seems like he was just born and now he is a middle schooler?????!!!! WHAT???? Here are a couple of pictures of his promotion and when he received an award for the Principal's Honor Roll.
Justin is the little guy third from the left. Here he is with his class as they are promoted.
After Justin's promotion ceremony, the kids consented to a photo op. So, here are a couple of pictures of my beautiful babies!
Precious!!!!
For the Grand Finale of this eternally long news flash post, MY GRADUATION!!!!!!!
Entering the stadium....I am the one just behind the photographer.
Walking forward to receive my degrees, my Speech instructors whom I worked with
wanted a picture....so here I am holding up the line....LOL
WHAT???? There is only a letter from the chancellor in here!!!! Where's the degree???
Photo op with my family!!! Thank you all for supporting Mom while she achieved her goal!!!
Love you ALL!!!
So, I hope you have enjoyed the News flash catch up session....
Come back soon for pictures of my party, my newly painted house, new drapes I am attempting to make this week and a myriad of other fun facts from Jana!!
Thanks for stopping by!!
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Graduation Day is just around the corner
Today is my first day without classes to attend and I am enjoying a break because this next week will be a killer!! Tomorrow, I have scheduled a SI session with the students from my Speech 1 class and look forward to working with them as they cram for their final on Monday. Then Saturday I will be hopping!! I have a first practice with singers for a wedding that is scheduled for August at noon in Rialto at the church (they are coming from Bellflower area), a first birthday party for twins at 4:30 PM in Redlands, and am scheduled to be the entertainment for a graduation party for Brandon Mendivil at 6:00 PM in Perris. Next, Sunday looms with all her splendor! Scheduled to sing with a trio for AM service and play for praise and worship then play organ and direct the choir for the PM service. Monday will be a long day. I have a final exam for Health Science 8:00-10:30 AM, watch the final speeches for the final in my Speech 1 class, that I SI for, from 11:00-1:30 PM, and then I have a SI study session scheduled with 5 or so students for Speech 9 at 1:30-2:30. The next two days I will be completing finals for Algebra and History 6 online. I am afraid those two tests will just about kill me! But once I am done then Thursday will be spent rehearsing for graduation, preparing for my party, and then the actual graduation takes place at 6 PM!!!!!
Busy week ahead but graduation and rest are on the way!
God bless you all and I ask that you keep me in your prayers through the next week!
Monday, June 2, 2008
Divulging A Blessing
I haven't said much lately about what has been happening in my life. So, I thought I would just take a moment and divulge the blessings in my life. This week is my last week in school! I will be graduating with my Associates Degrees in Arts and Science next week on the 12th. I am very excited!!
On the home front, we have been painting and laying flooring like mad! Over the last two weekends we have painted all the bedrooms and laid flooring in the girls' room. We are still working on our own bedroom so the front room is our temporary sleeping area. Which means that there is a queen size bed laying in the middle of the living room. I am anxious to get the painting done so that I can have my living room floor back!!!! The girls love their new two-tone room. The bottom half of the wall is a cool purple. Then the top half is a light grey (almost white) with a chair rail molding along the line where the two colors meet. My son's room has sky blue upper walls with a sea-foam green and darker blue sponge scape on the bottom half. His theme will be nautical with special emphasis on military ships. My room has one red wall with golden-rod on the remaining three walls. It will look very nice with my comforter set!
So, since it is late and I have to help the Speech 9 instructor with the review for the student's final exam, I need to get some sleep! Good night and God bless. I will have to divulge other blessings at a later date!!!
On the home front, we have been painting and laying flooring like mad! Over the last two weekends we have painted all the bedrooms and laid flooring in the girls' room. We are still working on our own bedroom so the front room is our temporary sleeping area. Which means that there is a queen size bed laying in the middle of the living room. I am anxious to get the painting done so that I can have my living room floor back!!!! The girls love their new two-tone room. The bottom half of the wall is a cool purple. Then the top half is a light grey (almost white) with a chair rail molding along the line where the two colors meet. My son's room has sky blue upper walls with a sea-foam green and darker blue sponge scape on the bottom half. His theme will be nautical with special emphasis on military ships. My room has one red wall with golden-rod on the remaining three walls. It will look very nice with my comforter set!
So, since it is late and I have to help the Speech 9 instructor with the review for the student's final exam, I need to get some sleep! Good night and God bless. I will have to divulge other blessings at a later date!!!
Friday, May 30, 2008
Too Much Sugar
I received this via an e-mail from Pastor Tim at cyberlaughs.com
A Clean Pun
A fellow nurse at my hospital received a call from an anxious woman. "I'm diabetic and I'm afraid I've had too much sugar today," she said.
"Are you light-headed?" my colleague asked.
"No," the caller answered, "I'm a brunette."
A Clean Pun
A fellow nurse at my hospital received a call from an anxious woman. "I'm diabetic and I'm afraid I've had too much sugar today," she said.
"Are you light-headed?" my colleague asked.
"No," the caller answered, "I'm a brunette."
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