Pumpkin Carving

Yes, my kids still carve pumpkins! I did get to catch a few pictures of the activity.

Enjoy!!

Dad helped!!

Yuk the insides!

Cole dug right in!

Check out Chang's expression!

Aimee made John get the yuk out!

Finished product... Cole looks ticked off! Not sure what that is about.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Judas

They had a dinner for Jesus. Martha served the food, and Lazarus was one of the people eating with Jesus. Mary brought in a pint of very expensive perfume made from pure nard. She poured the perfume on his feet, and then she wiped his feet with her hair. And the sweet smell from the perfume filled the whole house.- JOHN 12:2–3

Judas by Max Lucado

If God has called you to be a Martha, then serve! Remind the rest of us that there is evangelism in feeding the poor and there is worship in nursing the sick.

If God has called you to be a Mary, then worship! Remind the rest of us that we don’t have to be busy to be holy. Urge us with your example to put down our clipboards and megaphones and be quiet in worship.

If God has called you to be a Lazarus, then testify. Remind the rest of us that we, too, have a story to tell. We, too, have neighbors who are lost. We, too, have died and been resurrected.

Each of us has our place at the table.

Except one. There was one at Martha’s house who didn’t find his place. Though he had been near Jesus longer than any of the others, he was furthest in his faith. His name was Judas. He was a thief. When Mary poured the perfume he feigned spirituality. “The perfume could have been sold and given to the poor,” he said. But Jesus knew Judas’s heart, and Jesus defended Mary’s worship. Years later, John, too, knew Judas’s heart, and John explained that Judas was a thief (John 12:6). And all these years he had been dipping his hand in the treasury. The reason he wanted the perfume to be sold and the money put in the treasury was so that he could get his hands on it.

What a sad ending to a beautiful story. But what an appropriate ending. For in every church there are those like Martha who take time to serve. There are those like Mary who take time to worship. There are those like Lazarus who take time to testify.

And there are those like Judas who take, take, take, and never give in return. Are you a Judas? I ask the question carefully, yet honestly. Are you near Christ but far from his heart? Are you at the dinner with a sour soul? Are you always criticizing the gifts of others yet seldom, if ever, giving your own? Are you benefiting from the church while never giving to it? Do others give sacrificially while you give miserly? Are you a Judas?

Do you take, take, take, and never give? If so, you are the Judas in this story.

If you are a Martha, be strengthened. God sees your service.

If you are a Mary, be encouraged. God receives your worship.

If you are a Lazarus, be strong. God honors your conviction.

But if you are a Judas, be warned. God sees your selfishness.

From Cast of Characters© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2008) Max Lucado

Papaw

It has been a beautiful day. With it has come a flooding of memories of my Papaw. He passed away 17 years ago today. I cannot believe it has been 17 years.




With these memories bring sadness and happiness. He was my only grandparent that I have ever had. I spent a lot of time with him and loved every minute of it. I was 15 when he passed away, one month before my 16th birthday.

He was in WWII and was awarded a purple heart. He was wounded, shot in the leg. I remember when we would go to his house we always wanted him to show us the hole in the leg. He was my first hero. Often times I spent the night with him, I was the only grandchild that would. It was funny, he would cough in the night and get up and make me take cough syrup.

I remember he always had those ceramic lawn animals in his house. He loved frozen pies, and watching Smokey & the Bandit and Green Acres. He was quite a special man. I miss him terribly. I do not know where he was in his spiritual life. I just have hope that one day I will be with him in heaven.



Halloween has never much been the same for me since he passed, but I will always have me memories of the time I had with him.

Hump day Update!

Here it is Wednesday already. This month is FLYING by!


I thought I would take a minute to update on the Farhars'


Today I had a recheck at the eye doctor. I was hoping I had gotten better but to no avail I still need bifocals. ARGH! Tomorrow I will have the stitches out of the site where I had the tooth extraction. I hope all looks well there!



Ed is still loving his new job. He is working at the new indoor water park in French Lick pouring concrete for right now. For those of you that didn't know he is now working for Jasper Lumber, basically doing the same type of work but a lot less stress!! For once we may even get a tax return!! WOW!!



Aimee has officially started basketball practice. Her first game is in 2 weeks! She has her last fall tournament this weekend for softball. I hope it isn't too cold! Her grades are still great! She is working really hard. She is still dating John so he hangs out a lot which is ok with us.



Cole is also into basketball practice with his first game in 2 weeks as well. It can get hectic trying to juggle the schedules and there are a few games of Aim's I miss due to Cole's. He is self teaching himself the trumpet which causes for some loud nights! I have no clue how this is going cause I know nothing about the trumpet. His grades are also still great!



Chad is still working at Wendy's. We don't get to see him much but he is good at texting so we here a lot from him that way.



Chang is ALSO playing basketball so this should prove to be interesting getting to them all! He is still very enjoyable. He has a great sense of humor and often teases us as much as we do him. He is also playing in the praise band at church. He plays the electric guitar and is good at it. Although Hou Hou's piano playing was much more peaceful =)



That's about it for now. We are getting ready to head out to Andrea & Aaron's so I can give a tutorial on her new blackberry phone!! I hope she posts how Aaron gave it to her. Ed said he gives guys like Ed a bad name!! It really was too sweet!

Tuesday Tunes

Here we are for another edition of "Tuesday Tunes".

I had a wonderful surprise last night. Hou Hou called! Ed said I lit up like a Christmas tree. I do love that boy!! He said he will be planning a trip to Shoals for the spring or summer. We can't wait! He hold a special place in my heart. Chang is hoping he comes before he leaves so they can meet, that would be too cool!!









On the other side of the world
She stands on the ocean shore
Gazing at the heavens
She wonders, is there something more
Never been told the name of Jesus
She turns and walks away
What a shame [oh yeahh]

Just across the street in your hometown
Leaving from his nine-to-five
Gazing down the road
He wonders, is this all there is to life
Never been told the name of Jesus
He continues on his way
What a shame [oh yeahh]

Whom shall I send?
Who will go for me?
To the ends of the earth
Who will rise up for their King
Here am I, send me
Here am I, send me

Whether foreign land or neighbors
Everyone's the same
Searching for the answers
That lie within your name
I wanna proclaim the love of Jesus
In all I do and say, Unashamed

Whom shall I send?
Who will go for me?
To the ends of the earth
Who will rise up for their King
Here am I, send me
Here am I, send me

How beautiful are feet of those who bring good news
Proclaiming peace and your salvation

Whom shall I send
Who will go for me
To the ends of the earth
Who will rise up for their King
Here am I, send me
Here am I, send me
Here am I, send me

Heart vs. Mind

God wants to know our hearts! He wants a personal relationship with us. We have all done it at one time or another but I bet you can think of people that you know that "play" church. They go because it is the right thing to do or that is how they were raised but they don't fully give themselves over to God.



Have you ever wondered why? When we see people who are living, breathing , walking testaments to the faith. We know people who have turned themselves over to God and are living life abundantly but yet some still afraid to totally rely on Jesus!



We are afraid to give up the control. We are afraid of the life change it may take. We are afraid to lose our friends. We are afraid of what others will think of us. I could go on and on with the excuses we hear or have even used a time or two ourselves.



However you know what friends?? When you finally take that leap of faith, it is an amazing adventure. I cannot even imagine making it through the day without God. Am I perfect? HA! Far from it however, I serve an all knowing, all powerful, FORGIVING God! There is nothing we can do to make God turn his love from us.



So, why can it be hard? Often times in our hearts we strive to do what is good and pure, but our mind gets in the way! We over think it. We need to lead with our hearts and less with our minds. God knows your heart, are you filling it will pure and holy things? That is the start to a life change. Change your heart and mind and the attitude can't help but go right along with it!



Psalm 37:4 (New International Version)

4 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.


Deuteronomy 6:5 (New International Version)

5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.


Psalm 51:10 (New International Version)

10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.



Luke 12:34 (New International Version)

34For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.



Romans 10:10 (New International Version)

10For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved



Colossians 3:23 (New International Version)

23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,

Photo Overload

After church today we went to the Lark Ranch. My Mom & Dad came down with my sister and her 2 kids. We also went with the Jones family. We were there 3 hours! It didn't seem like it but we had a ball!

Make a Smilebox photobook

Check out the handsome guy!

Cole served the dinner at a wedding rehearsal dinner last night with the youth group. He cleans up good!! He was NOT happy that I wanted to take his picture!!






































I was invited to go to the Ark of Safety with Brenda Mathias last night. I met up with them at Ruler parking lot in Loogootee. In my car was myself, Brenda, John, Leslie Doyle, Beth Arvin, and Giana Armstrong.



I was a little apprehensive because I have never been there before. It was a Kingdom Worship. Janet Douglas led it. It was amazing, I have never felt more peaceful. They have these the last Friday of every month at 7:00. I suggest if you have not been to a service there you think about going. I think I will take Ed next time I go. E-mail me or let me know if you want directions.



At one point a gentleman said something and I looked at Leslie and said that is blog worthy but I can't remember what it was now to save my life! Anyway, it has been a good weekend so far. I went to the volleyball sectional with Annette this morning and we won so I am going back with her tonight. Then tomorrow is church and my sister is bringing her kids down & my parents. Along with the Jones family we are going to the Lark Ranch. Should be a great day!!

Lazarus

They had a dinner for Jesus. Martha served the food, and Lazarus was one of the people eating with Jesus. Mary brought in a pint of very expensive perfume made from pure nard. She poured the perfume on his feet, and then she wiped his feet with her hair. And the sweet smell from the perfume filled the whole house.- JOHN 12:2–3

Lazarus by Max Lucado

Marys need to remember that service is worship.

Marthas need to remember that worship is service.

And Lazarus? He needs to remember that not everyone can play the trumpet.
You see, as far as we know, Lazarus did nothing at the dinner. He saved his actions for outside the house. Read carefully John 12:9:

“A large crowd of Jews heard that Jesus was in Bethany. So they went there to see not only Jesus, but Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead. So the leading priests made plans to kill Lazarus, too. Because of Lazarus many Jews were leaving them and believing in Jesus.”

Wow! Because of Lazarus many Jews were “believing in Jesus.” Lazarus has been given a trumpet. He has a testimony to give—and what a testimony he has!

“I was always a good fellow,” he would say. “I paid my bills. I loved my sisters. I even enjoyed being around Jesus. But I wasn’t one of the followers. I didn’t get as close as Peter and James and those guys. I kept my distance. Nothing personal. I just didn’t want to get carried away.

“But then I got sick. And then I died. I mean, I died dead.

“Nothing left. Stone-cold. No life. No breath. Nothing. I died to everything. I saw life from the tomb. And then Jesus called me from the grave. When he spoke, my heart beat and my soul stirred, and I was alive again. And I want you to know he can do the same for you.”

God gave Martha a bass drum of service. God gave Mary a flute for praise. And God gave Lazarus a trumpet. And he stood on center stage and played it.
God still gives trumpets. God still calls people from the pits. God still gives pinch-me-I’m-dreaming, too-good-to-be-true testimonies. But not everyone has a dramatic testimony. Who wants a band full of trumpets?

Some convert the lost. Some encourage the saved. And some keep the movement in step. All are needed.

If God has called you to be a Lazarus, then testify. Remind the rest of us that we, too, have a story to tell. We, too, have neighbors who are lost. We, too, have died and been resurrected.

Tooth Update

Well, I survived the dentist. She was very good and gentle. The verse of the day on my blog was: Joshua 1:9 "Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."




Andrea texted that to me right as I was going in the office. I repeated that over and over and over. It calmed me right down. I also prayed for Angie as she was working on me. Now, mind you I am still numb so it may be a different story when that wears off as far as pain. There was a bone fused to the tooth so I had to have stitches but I tell you it was the easiest I have ever had. I just pray that it isn't terrible once the numbness wears off. I am SO thankful for all the friends and family that was praying for me. It makes you realize how much you are loved! Keep it up guys, I may need it for the next day or two! You all are SO great!




Now for the 30 day rules:


* You can't say anything negative about your husband . . . to your husband, or to anyone else.


* Say something that you admire or appreciate about your husband . . . to your husband . . . and to someone else.



You get a daily e-mail that tells you what to do each day. It really reminds me a little of the movie "Fireproof". Here was today's email.












"Through love serve one another." (Galatians 5:13b)


How did you do yesterday with your first day of blessing and encouraging your husband? We hope you're off to a good start. (If you blew it, don't give up--start again today!) There are many practical things you can praise him for, if you look for them.



Today, find some way that your husband is serving you or your family. Does he help around the house? Take care of the car? Fix things that are broken? If your budget allows, give him a new, small tool with a big bow attached. But make sure he doesn't think it's part of a "Honey Do" list!




Maybe your husband is not a handyman, but does he run errands for you? Take care of you when you are sick? Help you make decisions? Praise him for his willingness to serve others. Let him know that you see his unique service as a great strength.

I honestly do not think Ed has really noticed yet. He has acknowledged what I have said and seemed appreciative of it though! He really is a great guy!

30 Day Encouragement Challange

While at work today I was listening to my usual 88.7 but instead of listening to Alistair Begg I turned it to 88.1 and listened to Nancy Leigh DeMoss on Revive Our Hearts.



The first thing she said was "Are you up for a challenge"? This interested me so I paid a little more attention. She does several different challenges but today's was the 30 Day Husband Encouragement Challenge. I thought uh oh!! However, I continued to listen (a little apprehensively).



The idea of this challenge is to speak positively to and about your husband each day. Ok, well I thought uh huh. The more I listened the more I realized that often times we come into opposition against those the most close to us. This program inspired me to try it. So, I am going to sign up for it. I think I can do it.... =)



I am sure the ole' scum dog will be kicking and screaming all along the way, but I am stubborn and I will get through it. Now, I also thought you know I would like a little encouragement myself, but as she went on to say once you get into this you will see God start to change your husband as well.



She has several other challenges as well. https://roh.gospelcom.net/challenge/

-True Woman Makeover 30 day challenge. Discover and experience God's design and calling for your life! Join Nancy on a journey through Proverbs 31, 1 Timothy 2:9-10, and Titus 2:1-5.


-Tv Free Challenge. A challenge to turn off the TV and embark on an exciting adventure


-31 days of praying for your pastor. A helpful guide to effectively praying for your pastor



Who's up for a challenge??? Join me in this and we can track our progress along the way!!!



On a side note... tomorrow at 3:00 is my dentist appointment for the tooth extraction. My stomach turns just thinking of it. If you think about it please take a minute to pray for myself and the dentist. This terrifies me!! Thanks!!

Tuesday Tunes

Give thanks to the Lord!!


Chris Tomlin - Forever


Give thanks to the Lord
Our God and King
His love endures forever
For He is good, He is above all things
His love endures forever
Sing praise, sing praise
With a mighty hand
and outstretched arm
His love endures forever
For the life that's been reborn
His love endures forever
Sing praise, sing praise
Sing praise, sing praise


Yeah
Forever God is faithful
Forever God is strong
Forever God is with us
Forever
Forever


From the rising to the setting sun
His love endures forever
By the grace of God
We will carry on
His love endures forever
Sing praise, sing praise
Sing praise, sing praise
Yeah


Forever God is faithful
Forever God is strong
Forever God is with us
Forever
Forever
Forever God is faithful
Forever God is strong
Forever God is with us
Forever
Forever
Forever


His love endures forever
His love endures forever
His love endures forever
Forever
Sing praise, sing praise
Sing praise, sing praise
Yeah
Forever you are faithful
Forever you are strong
Foerver you are with us
Forever
And ever
Yeah


Forever you are faithful
Forever you are strong
Forever you are with us
Forever
Forever
You are God.....
Forever
And ever and ever ....

Mary

They had a dinner for Jesus. Martha served the food, and Lazarus was one of the people eating with Jesus. Mary brought in a pint of very expensive perfume made from pure nard. She poured the perfume on his feet, and then she wiped his feet with her hair. And the sweet smell from the perfume filled the whole house.- JOHN 12:2–3


Mary by Max Lucado


Marys are gifted with praise. They don’t just sing; they worship. They don’t simply attend church; they go to offer praise. They don’t just talk about Christ; they radiate Christ.

Marys have one foot in heaven and the other on a cloud. It’s not easy for them to come to earth, but sometimes they need to. Sometimes they need to be reminded that there are bills to be paid and classes to be taught. But don’t remind them too harshly. Flutes are fragile. Marys are precious souls with tender hearts. If they have found a place at the foot of Jesus, don’t ask them to leave. Much better to ask them to pray for you.

That’s what I do. When I find a Mary (or a Michael), I’m quick to ask, “How do I get on your prayer list?”

Every church desperately needs some Marys.We need them to pray for our children.We need them to put passion in our worship.We need them to write songs of praise and sing songs of glory.We need them to kneel and weep and lift their hands and pray.

We need them because we tend to forget how much God loves worship. Marys don’t forget. They know that God wants to be known as a father. They know that a father likes nothing more than to have his children sit as his feet and spend time with him.

Marys are good at that.

They, too, must be careful. They must meditate often on Luke 6:46. “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ but do not do what I say?” Marys need to remember that service is also worship.

If God has called you to be a Mary, then worship! Remind the rest of us that we don’t have to be busy to be holy. Urge us with your example to put down our clipboards and megaphones and be quiet in worship.

From Cast of Characters© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2008) Max Lucado

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ED!!

Today is my Ed's 42nd Birthday!!!! I honestly do not know where I would be without my lil' Ed!!

AWESOME!!

We have had an awesome weekend!!



We went to Bobe's (our favorite "Emmaus" restaurant) with Dianna and Dennis Overall. WHAT A HOOT!!! Then on to Fireproof. What can I say about this movie. WOW! It was great. I have never seen so many grown men crying in one place. Now, mind you Ed just had salt in his eyes from the popcorn.... =)



I HIGHLY suggest everyone goes to see this movie not only married couples but everyone. If you are married be sure to see it with your spouse. What a great thing to see good quality, christian movies in the theatres! It was true to life and made you think. I cannot wait until 2009 when the Love Dare book comes out. What a ministry it can have as well.



Today was our Cardboard Testimonies. As Lauren would say God showed up. We did it at both services. After the 8:15 service, the youth decided they wanted to participate, which made it even more special! Mine said on front: Anger & Hatefulness, on the back: The Joy of the Lord. Ed's said: Full of Sin, Full of Grace. Chang's was Left family, never left God, and Aimee's was made wrong turns, turned to Christ! ! I was surprised when I saw theirs and blessed! Cole was at his dad's darn it!!

WOW!

So, our washer died this week. I didn't realize how much laundry we did in the course of a week! Annette was kind enough to let me use her washer one day this week and that help ABUNDANTLY!




Last night we went to Washington to get a new washer. After we picked it up we ran into Wal-Mart then to KFC for a bite to eat. Ed went to order and said he wanted a number 2 with a Coke. The guy behind the counter said we are out of Cole Slaw, Ed said you are out of Coke? He said no, Slaw. Ed said Coke, and I said Cole Slaw, Ed! The guy has a speech impediment so then I guess he thought Ed was hard of hearing because he started talking louder. I wanted to crack up laughing. I then went to get our drinks and yep, you know it me the clumsy one got the ice somehow jammed in the ice dispenser. I did the normal thing and looked around to see who was watching. When I saw that no one was watching, I tried to "unjam" it to no avail. I finally just went and sat down. Ed came with our food and I continued to tell him the story of my ice adventure. We laughed the whole way through dinner at the people who couldn't get ice for their drinks. Finally as we were getting ready to leave it must have thawed enough to work. As we were walking out the lady at the drink island was giving her husband the "what for" with yep you guessed it, a speech impediment. I just wanted to get out of there before I lost it.




Now, don't get me wrong. I do not think less of people with speech problems, all of my kids were in speech therapy in elementary school. I just have a sick sense of humor. I mean in the course of 30 minutes all of this happened. I thought God are you testing me to see how strong I am to just keep quiet????

Photos!

Make a Smilebox photobook

Fun Friday

I remember when I worked at the school one year I worked with Mrs. Sourdike and she always had "Fun Fridays" where she set up stations and the kids got to just as it says have fun! Today when I got home from work the kids and I went to the state forest and I got some good shots of them!!



Last night at Praise Team practice the leader gave us "homework" for our devotional. It was to pick a scripture about praise & worship and what it means to us and bring it to practice next week for our devotional. I haven't narrowed it down yet but here are some of my favorites.


Luke 19:37 (New Living Translation)

37 When he reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of his followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen.

- Why do we praise God?? For all the good things he does for us right?!?!



Philippians 4:8 (New Living Translation)

8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.



Revelation 19:5 (New Living Translation)


5 And from the throne came a voice that said,
“Praise our God, all his servants, all who fear him, from the least to the greatest.”

TIme Warp Thursday!

I am VERY blessed to have a wonderful, fun loving family. I came across some of these pictures and they made me laugh. Enjoy!!

Ed fishing... what a catch!

Christmas a few years back!

The kids at Spring Mill

My basketball players! (they were NOT thrilled to get a pic together)

Cades Cove in Tennessee (one of our FAVORITE places to go)

The crazy family! This was being sent to my Dad when he was in Afghanistan!

I'm sick of it!!

I am So sick of hearing about the upcoming election!! It's everywhere, it's everywhere!!



It is all Ed watches. I finally confronted him about it last night! I said "Ed, you know who you are voting for, so why are you ALWAYS watching Fox News with this crap on it".



His reply "To me it is like what Survivor is to you" I cannot even imagine!!



So who else wants this election to just be over??? .

Say a prayer for my dear friend Andrea's daughter Ava, she has pneumonia. Also, Lacy's son Leighton just got out of the hospital again. Twice in 2 weeks!!

Tuesday Tunes

I am SO loving this song right now!!


Toby Mac -Lose My Soul



Man I wanna tell ya'll something, Man.
Man I'm not gonna let these material thing's, get in my way, ya'll.
I'm trying to get somewhere.
I'm trying to get somewhere,
Thats real and pure and true and eternal.



Father God, I am clay in your hands,
Help me to stay that way through all life's demands,
'Cause they chip and they nag and they pull at me,
And every little thing I make up my mind to be,
Like I'm gonna be a daddy whose in the mix,
And I'm gonna be a husband who stays legit,
And I pray that I'm an artist who rises above,
The road that is wide and filled with self love,
Everything that I see draws me,
Though it's only in You that I can truly see that its a feast for the eyes- a low blow to purpose.
And I'm a little kid at a three ring circus.


I don't want to gain the whole world, and lose my soul,
Don't wanna walk away, let me hear the people say.
I don't want to gain the whole world, and lose my soul,
Don't wanna walk away, let me hear the people say.



(Mr. Franklin, Step up to the mic sir)



The paparazzi flashes, and that they think that it's you,
But they don't know that who you are is not what you do,
True, we get it twisted when we peak at the charts,
Yo before we part from the start,
Where's your heart?
You a pimp, hustler?
Tell me what's your title,
America has no more stars, now we call them idols,
You sit idle, While we teach prosperity,
The first thing to prosper should be inside of me.
We're free...
Not because of 22's on the range,
But Christ came in range, we said yes now we changed,
Not the same, even though I made a fall,
Since I got that call, no more Saul, now I'm Paul.
(YEP!)



I don't want to gain the whole world, and lose my soul,
Don't wanna walk away, let me hear the people say.
I don't want to gain the whole world, and lose my soul,
Don't wanna walk away, let me hear the people say.
Don't wanna walk away,
Don't wanna walk away



How do I sense the tide that's rising?
De-sensitizing me from living in light of eternity,
How do I sense the tide that's rising?
It's hypnotizing me from living in light of eternity,
How do I sense the tide that's rising?
De-sensitizing me from living in light of eternity.



(Lord what we gon do,We're relying on you,
all eyes are on you Lord,
all eyes are on you, all eyes are on you Jesus.)



I don't want to gain the whole world, and lose my soul,
Don't wanna walk away, let me hear the people say.
(Don't let me lose my soul, my soul.)
I don't want to gain the whole world, and lose my soul,
(This is my honesty, Father, won't you cover me.)
I don't want to gain the whole world, and lose my soul,
(Don't wanna walk away, and all those people say)
I don't want to gain the whole world, and lose my soul,
(Don't wanna lose, I don't wanna lose my soul.)



Lord forgive us when we get consumed by the things of this world,
That fight for our love, and our passion,
As our eyes are open wide and on you.
Grant us the privilege of your world view,
And may your kingdom be, what wakes us up, and lays us down.



(Hallelujah, Don't wanna lose our soul,
No, Don't wanna lose my soul.)



Hey excuse me,
I'm looking or the after party,
Toby,
Haha, yeah, last door on the left, you'll hear it.
Thanks,
No problem.



Don't let me lose my soul, I never wanna walk away,
I don't wanna lose my soul,
No, no, no.
Don't let me, don't let me, lose my soul,
I don't wanna walk away,
Don't let me walk away,
Na na na na no,
Don't let me lose, my soul,
I'm never gonna walk away.

Cardboard Testimonies

Our Sunday School class will be doing cardboard testimonies this Sunday at both church services. I thought I had it all together and knew what I was going to put on my cardboard, BUT now I am wavering. This isn't easy, so I guess I will pray about it and go from there!!




We laughed because Ed said he wandered if the forklift could could get in the church to present his, or if he just needed to rent to local billboard!! When we first entertained the idea everyone was all for it, but the closer it has gotten a few people are stressing over it. I think it is such a testimony without words! I will update you next Monday on how it went!!




Can you believe that Thanksgiving will be here in no time? It is one of my favorite holidays. I can remember as a child waking up to the smells in the kitchen and watching the Macy's day parade. Makes me want pumpkin pie just thinking about it!!




Ed's birthday is this Sunday as well and I am trying to think of something we can do Saturday but once again I am wavering! He is one of those people that doesn't want anything or a big deal made. If you have any ideas let me know!!




Have a great week!! The leaves are turning and it is just gorgeous!!

Martha

They had a dinner for Jesus. Martha served the food, and Lazarus was one of the people eating with Jesus. Mary brought in a pint of very expensive perfume made from pure nard. She poured the perfume on his feet, and then she wiped his feet with her hair. And the sweet smell from the perfume filled the whole house.- JOHN 12:2–3





Martha by Max Lucado


Every church needs a Martha. Change that. Every church needs a hundred Marthas. Sleeves rolled and ready, they keep the pace for the church. Because of Marthas, the church budget gets balanced, the church babies get bounced, and the church building gets built. You don’t appreciate Marthas until a Martha is missing, and then all the Marys and Lazaruses are scrambling around looking for the keys and the thermostats and the overhead projectors.

Marthas are the Energizer bunnies of the church. They keep going and going and going. They store strength like a camel stores water. Since they don’t seek the spotlight, they don’t live off the applause. That’s not to say they don’t need it. They just aren’t addicted to it.

Marthas have a mission. In fact, if Marthas have a weakness, it is their tendency to elevate the mission over the Master. Remember when Martha did that? A younger Martha invites a younger Jesus to come for dinner. Jesus accepts and brings his disciples.

The scene Luke describes has Mary seated and Martha fuming. Martha is angry because Mary is, horror of horrors, sitting at the feet of Jesus. How impractical! How irrelevant! How unnecessary! I mean, who has time to sit and listen when there is bread to be baked, tables to be set, and souls to be saved? So Martha complained, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me alone to do all the work? Tell her to help me” (Luke 10:40).

All of a sudden Martha has gone from serving Jesus to making demands of Jesus. The room falls silent. The disciples duck their eyes. Mary flushes red. And Jesus speaks.

“Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things. Only one thing is important. Mary has chosen the better thing, and it will never be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41–42).

Apparently Martha got the point, for later we find her serving again.
“Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume” (John 12:2–3 NIV).

Is Mary in the kitchen? No she is worshiping, for that is what she loves to do. But this time Martha doesn’t object. She has learned that there is a place for praise and worship, and that is what Mary is doing. And what is Mary’s part in the dinner? She brings a pint of very expensive perfume and pours it on Jesus’ feet, then wipes his feet with her hair. The smell of the perfume fills the house, just like the sound of praise can fill a church.

An earlier Martha would have objected. Such an act was too lavish, too extravagant, too generous. But this mature Martha has learned that just as there is a place in the kingdom of God for sacrificial service, there is also a place for extravagant praise.

Nicole C. Mullen - One Touch

I could't wait until Tuesday to post this. God laid it on my heart that there are many hurting people out there trying to deal with their own issues. This is an amazing, powerful video. We actually saw this live at Women of Faith, and some peeps of mine recently performed it and I understand it was AWESOME!! Enjoy =)


Been ostracized for 12 years
I'm used to being alone
Spent everything I had
And now it's gone
I'm used to being put down
My issues tell it all
My only hope is anchored
In this fall

Chorus
If I could just touch the hem of His garment
I know I'd be made whole
If I could just press my way through this madness
His love would heal my soul
If only one touch


So many people calling
How could He ever know
That just a brush of Him
Would stop the flow
If He knew would He rebuke me
Or shame me to the crowd
Well I'm desperate 'cause it's never or it's now


If I could just touch the hem of His garment
I know I'd be made whole
If I could just press my way through this madness
His love would heal my soul.



And then suddenly He turned around
He said somebody has unleashed my power
Well, frightened and embarrassed I bowed
You see I told Him of my troubles
And how...


I had to touch the Hem of His garment
And i know I've been made whole
And how I had pressed my way through this madness
And His love has healed my soul.


Then with one word He touched the hem of my garment
And you know I've been made whole
And somehow He pressed His way throught my madness
And His love has healed my soul.


I tell you He Touched me.
He reached way down and touched me
When no one else would touch me
Jesus shol' 'nough [[sure enough]] He touched me...
And I know I've been made whole

Are you Religious??

I cannot stand that question! I know my Ya Ya's know this. Ed came home from work yesterday and said a guy used his phone and upon returning it asked Ed is he was 'Religious" to which Ed replied; No, I go to church and try to live my life right and the way God would have me to. Don't you go to church?? The guy said yes but didn't quite get it.




I asked Ed why he even asked that in the first place and he said because of his background on his phone. See the photo below!


















Then it made sense to me as to why he asked "the question"




To me it comes down to Religion vs. Relationship. The Law vs. Grace. I think at one time or another most of us have been guilty of getting into tradition or the law of the church instead of a heart relationship with Jesus Christ.





How does this come about?? Is it instantaneous or does it develop over time? I think it can be both. We are all human and struggle to not live of the world. It is a daily struggle. One that we have to make DAILY. It is too easy to go about your day being "mad at the world". It is just too easy!!






2 Corinthians 5: 11-17


11 Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too.

12 Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us, so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart.

13 If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit.

14 Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.

15 He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.

16 So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now!

17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!





Which do you have?? Religion or Relationship??

The dreaded dentist!!

Anyone that knows me knows that I am terrified of the dentist!! However, I knew when I started getting a tooth ache last weekend I had to go. So, I made the appointment when I knew I couldn't stand it anymore and when Ambesol wouldn't work and I about overdosed on Tylenol!

So, I took off work yesterday and went to the dentist. I went to Loogootee and was terrified. I am usually a pretty strong person but I would rather go to the gyno!!! Sorry for all the men out there =)

Sure enough, I have the start of an abscess. So, she gave me Penicillin and Hydrocodone. I usually get deathly ill with any type of pain medicine other than Tylenol however, it hurt so bad last night I took one. It didn't even touch the pain. Great!!

So, the solution is either a root canal (2000.00) or extraction (70.00). Now, which do you think I am gonna do??? It's all about the almighty dollar! So, I will probably opt for the extraction. I know they do not like to do that, and she said with you not having the one right above it, it will limit your chewing (like I can chew there now). It is the 2nd to last tooth on bottom! Especially since the root canal isn't guaranteed, I think that extraction is my best choice.

Now, as Lacy and Ashley can attest she is a TINY TINY gal and I was thinking how in the world is this little bitty gal going to yank my tooth out???? I guess when the infection is gone I will find out. I just hope they give gas or knock me out cause I am SO SCARED of this.

So, does anyone wanna go hold my hand???

I've been tagged!

I Got Tagged!


Ok, so I've been tagged by a friend to let all of you know 6 random facts about myself. It might take me awhile to think of some stuff:)


Lets see....



1.) I too have OCD... I admit I am SO weird with things. Everything has a place and everything should be in it's place!! I could things all the time, just random counting to 9. Sometimes I feel a little like Monk. I know scary huh?!?!



2.) I LOVE dogs. Almost to an obsession. There have been several lost dogs end up at Crane and the crazy dog lady always seemed to take them home with her. (Yep, that's me)



3.) I have a burning desire to travel to Africa. Most people know this about me.



4.) I have quite a diverse family. I have 4 brothers and sisters. 1 biological sister and 3 adopted. One Hispanic sister, a bi-racial brother, and an african american brother. Plus, we have had 2 foreign exchange students!!



5.) Ed & I have been married for 10 years. We actually met at "Three Pigs" Restaurant. I did not like him!! What was I thinking!?!?!



6.) I have a God given talent for peeing my pants if I get to laughing too hard. It really is a talent. Annette seems to be the one to make me do it the most!!



So now I have to Tag 6 lucky bloggers: Lauren, Andrea, Leslie, Carol. Everyone else has been tagged so I just got 4!!

Tuesday Tunes

Tuesday Tunes


John Waller's "While I wait" from the movie Fireproof


I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait


I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait


I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

MANIC MONDAY!!

This has been a STRESSFUL day!! I mean it has been crazy, I am trying to make it better but my goodness!



I know that there will be days like this but it just seems like if one thing happened there were 2 or 3. However, it will get better! We have a free night tonight so that will be good. Aimee's team won the Nationals qualifer this weekend so the coach said make plans for Panama City in July!!



On another note, Ed decided to cut his hair last night. He always cuts his own and I come by and get the long ones he missed. Which I did, with the guard on. Then he asked me to shave his neck and so forth. Well, I got to talking and didn't realize he had taken the guard off and .....



YEP!



You guessed it, I cut him a big ole' patch in his hair. He wasn't too thrilled but he is pretty laid back and now has as we called it an Andy Burkhardt cut! Every time he walked in the room last night we got so tickled which was so wrong of us but he took it well and laughed with us!!!

Attitudes

Friday night myself along with a bunch of gals from church went to a women's retreat at Camp Illiana. On the way down Pam T. and I talked a lot about dissension within churches and what we see as the "problems". That ole' scum dog (the devil) will certainly use good people to split churches. We MUST, MUST train our minds to keep pure thoughts and remember it is about HIM not us.

We got our confirmation through the workshop we went to titled "Making Sundays Special". She covered almost to the T everything we talked about. We have to have the attitude of worship not only at church on Sunday but in EVERYTHING we do. Is it hard??? Uh yea it is hard! But it is SO worth it. Too many times we get wrapped up with what that person in the pew behind us will think or what so and so is doing. People, it is time we wake up and see that we are to live our lives to make Jesus known and seen, to be his hands and feet.

We didn't get to bed until around 3 a.m and got up at 6 a.m. WHEW!! We even did makeovers wth before and after photos!! I will attach a few! After it was over I drove to Terre Haute to watch Aimee's tournament. She had an awesome day playing, and she & Ed are there today as well. They are 3-1 at this point I'll update you tomorrow on how they finished. I stayed home to go to church and go get Cole after while. It should be a beautiful drive. I am attaching some photos from the weekend! Enjoy!!

Bedtime story....

I have NO idea????

Up to no good!

Before....

After!! WHOO HOOO

Before....

Whoa Mama!!

Before...

Look out world!



Before....

Move over ladies!

Right before her triple!