Running the Race

Come to Jesus by Chris Rice

2012-02-16T22:03:00.000-06:00

He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength...those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. ~ Isaiah 40:29, 30

Here Comes The Sun James Taylor Yo Yo Ma

2011-12-07T16:50:00.000-06:00

Ahhhh! Enjoy!

Where We Live

2011-12-02T21:45:00.005-06:00

It has been a long while since I wrote last! As you know we MOVED! We are rejoicing in the Lord's direction and provision in this whole process. We have been in our new (older) home two months! Time flies when you are unpacking, painting, rearranging furniture for the 100th time (no joke, just ask my dear hubby, children and friends who have visited!) and hosting dear family and friends! It has been a whirlwind, but with the view (above) we have in our front yard, it is all worth it!

This house holds a wonderful story for us! Since we moved to the the Rio Grande Valley nearly four years ago, we hoped to some day find a little house with an acre or more. Well, in September 2010, I saw this house on the market it was a little bit above our price range AND it was only .88 of an acre...so, it didn't quite fit with the specifics for which we had been praying. So, we continued to wait. We finally decided to put our house on the market, not sure where we were going to live if it sold before we found a house! Well, at the end of July the Lord provided a buyer for our house AND lo and behold THIS house was back on the market after being off for a year and that was not all... they included the rest of their land bringing the total size to 1.5 acres!!! With what we sold our house for and with what we were able to negotiate for this house it was almost an even swap!

So, we praise the LORD for His gracious and generous provision.

We have many projects ahead of us, but nothing that is urgent...as many of you know by our house in the Big O that we are used to projects!!

So, for you, our dear family and friends...you are welcome to our humble abode! We would love to see any or all of you!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T15:52:00.003-06:00

"The First Thanksgiving at Plymouth" (1914) By Jennie A. Brownscombe

Let us, on the day set aside for this purpose, give thanks to the Ruler of the universe for the strength which He has vouchsafed us to carry on our daily labors and the hope that lives within us of the coming of a day when peace and the productive activities of peace shall reign on every continent. ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt, October 31, 1939

Getting Close

2011-09-10T14:54:00.002-05:00

We are almost finished with packing!

This is our LAST weekend in this great house!

It has been a wonderful home!

Declare and proclaim

2011-08-28T15:17:00.003-05:00

The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
~Psalm 19:1

Guess what!!!

2011-08-23T21:23:00.008-05:00

We put our house up for sale in the middle of June in the hopes of being able to find a home that had a little more land. And lo, and behold, the LORD has provided a buyer for us and provided a another house for us with 1.5 acres. We are so excited about this because as we have prayed together as a family, we have requested that we would be able to find a home with a little more land NEAR the church. Our new home will be only three miles from the church!

While our house has not needed a lot of work to get ready to sell, it has been a lot of work to keep it clean and "show-ready" when the realtor called for a showing. The kids jumped right into their duties of straightening up their rooms and helping to get the rest of the house in shape!

While this house has been such a blessing to us, we have always hoped to be a little more out in the country. Each one of the children have a specific reason for wanting to move...a pet, a bigger yard for playing and making forts, a place that had more trees...

So, we will be moving at the end of September and we will be ready for visitors in no time...so, look at your calendars and let us know! :-)

He is Good

2011-07-26T16:33:00.005-05:00

"He is good." This is reason enough for giving Him thanks; goodness is His essence and nature, and therefore He is always to be praised whether we are receiving anything from Him or not. Those who only praise God because He does them good should rise to a higher note and give thanks to Him because He is good. In the truest sense He alone is good. "There is none good but one, that is God"; therefore in all gratitude the Lord should have the royal portion. If others seem to be good, He is good. If others are good in measure, He is good beyond measure. When others behave badly to us, it should only stir us up the more heartily to give thanks unto the Lord, because He is good; and when we ourselves are concious that we are far from being good, we should only the more reverently bless Him that "He is good." We must never tolerate an instant's doubt as to the goodness of the Lord; whatever else may be questionable, this is absolutely certain, that Jehovah is good; His dispensations may vary, but His Name is always the same, and always good. It is not only that He was good, and will be good, but He is good; let His providence be what it may. Therefore, let us even at this present moment, though the skies be dark with clouds, yet give thanks unto His Name. ~ C.H. Spurgeon

Hush

2011-07-21T23:32:00.004-05:00

Hush.

As I write, it is a quiet house.

Five out of six have drifted off to dreamland.

I sit here and just soak in the silence.

Grateful for calm.

Unable to Recognize Truth

2011-07-11T18:28:00.005-05:00

"A man who lies to himself, and believes his own lies, becomes unable to recognize truth, either in himself or in anyone else, and he ends up losing respect for himself and for others. When he has no respect for anyone, he can no longer love, and in him, he yields to his impulses, indulges in the lowest form of pleasure, and behaves in the end like an animal in satisfying his vices. And it all comes from lying to others and to yourself."~ Dostoevsky

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. ~ John 8:32

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." ~ John 14:6

Five Minute Friday: Grateful

2011-07-08T09:00:00.002-05:00

so grateful for... my Dad.

even though it has been 21 years ago, yesterday, since we lost him so unexpectedly, i am grateful for who he was, who I knew him to be and for the memories of a man who i can share with my children...his grandchildren.

i am grateful for the influence he had and still has on me to be diligent and committed in what I am called to do...even when it hurts.

i am grateful that he communicated with me...that he was approachable...that he listened...no, really listened to his daughter.

i am grateful that he was not ashamed to love his family.

i am grateful that even now, i can look at his example of choosing what would best benefit his family, not just his own desires.

i am grateful that i can picture his smile.

i am grateful that i had nearly 20 years with him as my earthly father leading humbly, and faithfully.

i am grateful for my Heavenly Father who lovely meets me when i miss my dad in this life.

i am grateful.

1. Write for 5 minutes flat with no editing, tweaking or self critiquing.

2. Link back here and invite others to join in {you can grab the button code in my right side bar}

3. Go and tell the person who linked up before you what their words meant to you. Every writer longs to feel heard.

Not Failed One Word

2011-07-03T17:36:00.002-05:00

Blessed be the LORD, who has given rest to His people Israel, according to all that He promised. There has not failed one word of all His good promise, which He promised through His servant Moses. May the LORD our God be with us, as He was with our fathers. May He not leave us nor forsake us, that He may incline our hearts to Himself, to walk in all His ways, and to keep His commandments and His statutes and His judgments, which He commanded our fathers. ~ 1 Kings 9:56-58

The Practice of Giving Thanks --> JOY

2011-07-01T08:00:00.005-05:00

"Practice is the hardest part of learning, and training is the essence of transformation...."

"What compels me to name these moments upheavals and annoyances instead of grace and gifts? Why deprive myself of joy's oxygen? The swiftness and starkness of the answer startle. Because you believe in the power of the pit.
Do I really smother my own joy because I believe that anger achieves more than love? That Satan's way is more powerful, more practical, more fulfilling in my daily life than Jesus' way? Why else get angry? Isn't it because I think complaining, exasperation, resentment will pound me up into the full life I really want? When I choose -- and it is a choice -- to crush joy with bitterness, am I not purposefully choosing to take the way of the Prince of Darkness? Choosing the angry way of Lucifer because I think it is more effective -- more expedient -- than giving thanks?" ~ Ann Voskamp, one thousand gifts

"in every thing give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:18

"for the JOY set before Him, endured the cross." ~Hebrews 12:2

Father, give me HIS perspective. May the mind of Christ be in me today. May I CHOOSE joy, in all circumstances. May I look beyond the circumstances because I know and believe YOU have a greater purpose for ALL that happens. I need YOUR Spirit and YOUR eyes to see. For YOUR glory, amen.

Alison Krauss + Yo Yo Ma Slumber my darling

2011-06-26T15:45:00.000-05:00

Rain: At Last

2011-06-22T21:00:00.003-05:00

While we have been praying for others who live where flooding is occurring, we have also been praying for relief from almost no rain since October. Finally, today, the clouds opened up and the ground drank it up! It was such a refreshing sound! I cannot even tell you how wonderful it has been to hear the rain, the thunder. Refreshing!

A Glorious, Honorable, Noble Work

2011-05-08T19:57:00.005-05:00

"Mothers...feel and value your rich distinction in being called to educate the sons and daughters of the Lord God Almighty, and to prepare the holy family who are to dwell in those many mansions of His Father's house which the Lord Jesus has gone to prepare. Give yourselves up to this glorious work."

~ John Angell James, Female Piety: A Young Woman's Friend and Guide

“God has assigned to her a private sphere sufficiently important and honorable to justify the whole expenditure of angelic endowments - the formation of the character of children. This is the noblest and most momentous work done on earth.”

~R. L. Dabney

"It (mothering) is a ministry to the King."

~ Donna Otto

The Human Experience - Official Trailer [HD]

2011-04-25T14:15:00.000-05:00

In a Fog

2011-04-25T09:25:00.008-05:00

Most mornings when I look at the day set before me it is as though I face it in a fog. Opportunities, expectations, obligations, duties are looking back at me. As a wife, a mother, a sister, a daughter, a friend, etc., there is much I could DO today. The idea that I have "nothing to do" is not what I am struggling on these mornings. If I sit staring into this fog too long it begins to seem a bit confusing or overwhelming. I squint into the landscape of the day before me looking for direction...looking for a sign as to "how I am to fill this day?."

Thankfully, the One-Who-Made-Me gently reminds me to sit before Him. To to seek Him first. To ask Him first.

His words come to me.

The words for this day are: "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him (Psalm 37:7). Let my eyes look directly forward, and my gaze be straight before me. Ponder the path of my feet; then all the my ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn my foot away from evil (Proverbs 4:25-27). Go to the ant; consider her ways, and be wise (Proverbs 6:6). Honor others above myself (Romans 12:10). Work heartily, as for the Lord (Colossians 3:23). Do ALL things without complaining or disputing (Philippians 2:14-15). Love my husband and children, be self-controlled, pure, working at home...(Titus 2:4-5). Trust in the Lord, and do good (Psalm 37:3). Delight myself in the Lord (Psalm 37:4) Fear God and keep His commandments for this is the whole duty of man (Ecclesiates 12:13). Commit my way to the Lord (Psalm 37:5). I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13).

Gradually, I see the Light lifting the fog and the opportunities, expectations, obligations, duties for this day become more and more clear.

Breathe and press on in this day in His strength by His grace for His glory!

He is Risen!

2011-04-24T23:58:00.002-05:00

Christ the Lord is Risen Today

"Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!

Sons of men and angels say: Alleluia!

Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!

Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply: Alleluia!"

During the Easter celebration, "Christ the Lord is Risen Today" is usually sung in Christian churches worldwide. It was written by Charles Wesley for the first service in the Wesleyan Chapel in London, England in 1739, one year after his dramatic conversion experience at Aldersgate.

JAPAN

2011-03-29T19:58:00.004-05:00

Please go to the Mission to the World link here to learn more about the Disaster Response Appeal and for Prayer Updates.

On a personal note one of our dear friends from our church left this morning to go to Sendai, JAPAN.

Let me give you a little background on our friend, Y. She is actually native to Japan and had learned just two weeks prior to the earthquake/tsunami struck Japan, she was going to be able to return home for a visit to see her family whom she has not seen in three years. So, needless to say, she was shocked and surprised when the disaster hit.

Not only is Y Japanese, but she is a cardiac care nurse. She has also served on Mission to the World Disaster Response teams before. So, when Mission to the World called her to ask her to assist...she was more than willing to go.

There are a few things that she asks specifically for prayer:

Safety;
The Japanese people will be open to the wonderful message of the Gospel;
The radiation: she will have to be free of any radiation contamination in order to return to work here in the states.

So if you think of Japan, please pray for our dear friend, Y.

May the LORD's light shine forth through the devastation there.

2 Weeks 10 States Over 3000 Miles

2011-03-29T17:35:00.008-05:00

In two weeks we traveled from the southernmost part of Texas to Western Virginia for a wedding of some dear friends and back. Along the way, we were blessed to see family and friends! We also enjoyed the blessing of being together as a family. It is really a joy to be able to share these memories with each other.

YeeHaw

2011-02-18T21:30:00.004-06:00

A recent trip to Barnes & Noble proved to be a delightful success when I was able to pick up this TREASURE-- The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Recipes from an Accidental Country Girl by Ree Drummond!!! The best part was that not only was it on sale, but with my membership, it was even less expensive!!

Really...the photography and the recipes were WORTH this purchase...Sc. is sold on the cornbread recipe!

Check out Ree's great blog here.

Adoption?

2011-01-25T09:07:00.018-06:00

Pondering the concept of our heavenly adoption into God's Family, I am constantly challenged to consider the opportunity for earthly adoption for our family.

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs -- heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together." Romans 8:14-17

"...just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:4-6

Because He has shown us an example of love by adopting us into His family, then perhaps we could consider reflecting this same kind of love by adopting children into our families. Just a thought.

I know some families who have chosen to step out and extend this kind of love and I have to admit, it challenges me to the core.

Recently, a dear friend of mine and her family have been pursuing adopting a child. They have completed most of the initial requirements. She and I have discussed adoption and it possibilities. It is exciting, yet a bit intimidating---wait, ALOT intimidating.

She shared this sermon by Voddie Baucham of Grace Family Baptist Church, Houston, on the subject of Adoption (be prepared! :-) ) and I find myself even more challenged to consider this opportunity. The interesting thing about this whole process for me is this...

When I was in college, I was so inspired and moved to go to the uttermost parts of the world, to take the Gospel to jungle tribes, if called...(I was not called there, but was ready. :-) ) I had the privilege to take the message of adoption as sons by Jesus Christ as a missionary to other countries. Oh, how I am grateful for those who had gone before me displaying the depth of love and devotion to the Lord our Savior by going to difficult places where they could live out their understanding of being adopted into God's family. They want(ed) others to experience the blessing of heavenly sonship.

Well, that season of life for me has passed. I am no longer single. I am a wife and a mother. So, I am asking myself this...

"As I am called to be a wife and a mother, now, what doors are open to me to share this same message of being adopted into His family?" For the answer to this question, prayer is going up. Wisdom, counsel, guidance, and discernment are being sought.

I will say this about the families that I know who have seized the opportunity to adopt, they too, have been such an inspiration to me. Just as the missionaries I spoke of before, they are displaying a depth of love and devotion to the Lord our Savior by living out their understanding of being adopted into God's family. They want others to experience the blessing of heavenly sonship...as well as earthly sonship.

Right now, I am aware of two families actively pursuing adoption. One precious family is even making and selling handmade mittens to to raise money for their second adoption. If you would like to see these wonderful creations, go here.

Please pray for us as we seek HIS will for our lives. We want to honor Him by being willing and available should He confirm adoption as a calling for our family. We will keep you "posted." :-)

Bread, Bread, and MORE Bread

2011-01-24T11:49:00.004-06:00

This recipe was passed on to me almost 10 years ago! It makes a HUGE amount of dough so we can create an assortment of goodies...from daily staples like the dinner roll, or the fun foccacia bread, or the yummy cinnamon rolls (which later received a wonderful layer of butter cream frosting!) and much, much more.

SO, I wanted to share it with you!

100% Whole Wheat Bread

4 1/2 Cups Warm Water (about 125 degrees)
3/4 Cup Olive Oil
1/2 Honey
1 Tablespoon Salt
3 Tablespoon Instant Yeast (SAF)
14-15 Cups Whole Wheat Flour (Yes, you read that right...14-15 cups! :-) )

If using a mixer with a dough hook, put water, oil, honey, and salt in mixer. Mix well. Add yeast, and 6 cups of flour. Mix well on low (If using a Bosch mixer, mix well on speed 1). Add flour until it cleans the sides of bowl. Mix for 10 minutes.

Oven may be preheated for 10 minutes at 250 degrees. Turn off before putting bread in to rise.

Put some oil on hands and turn the dough out on a smooth oiled surface (I have a bread board that I spray with cooking . Dough is slightly sticky. Form loaves, or rolls, buns, or cinnamon rolls, etc. Put in greased pans or on greased baking sheets. Place in warm oven (MAKE SURE IT IS OFF) to rise 30-40 minutes or until approximately 2" above pans. Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes. You will need to experiment with oven temperature varying.

Butter tops for soft crust when removed from oven. Remove from pans and cool on racks.

If mixing by hand, work dough longer and more vigorously than with white flour. Keep in mind dough is a little sticky, but it will be alright.

Also, try making pizza crusts or calzones!

Getting Out at Market Days

2011-01-19T23:08:00.004-06:00

Music, food, the pushing of wares, and fun! This is the heart of Market Days!
At times it reminds us of Vanity Fair from Pilgrims Progress! I think you get the picture.

Women of Faith

2011-01-17T21:56:00.000-06:00

Figuring Life Out - One Thousand Gifts

2011-01-17T19:17:00.000-06:00

Light Surprises

2011-01-16T08:19:00.004-06:00

Sometimes a Light Surprises
(Click on title above to listen)
©2001 Kevin Twit Music. Words: William Cowper (alt. Kevin Twit). Music: Kevin Twit.

Sometimes a light surprises
The Christian while he sings;
It is the Lord Who rises
With healing in His wings:
When comforts are declining,
He grants the soul again
A season of clear shining,
To cheer it after the rain.

In holy contemplation
We sweetly then pursue
The theme of God’s salvation,
And find it ever new;
Set free from present sorrow,
We cheerfully can say,
Let the unknown tomorrow
Bring with it what it may.

Tomorrow can bring us nothing,
But He will bear us through:
Who gives the lilies clothing
Will clothe His people, too:
Beneath the spreading heavens
No creature but is fed;
And He Who feeds the ravens
Will give His children bread.

Though vine nor fig tree neither
Their wonted fruit should bear,
Though all the fields should wither,
Nor flocks or herds be there
Yet, God the same abiding,
His praise shall tune my voice;
For, while in Him confiding,
I cannot but rejoice.

Perspective

2011-01-15T17:58:00.009-06:00

pərˈspektɪv: a particular attitude towards something;
a way of thinking about something
(Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary)

How do you perceive the gray, rainy day in this photo?

As I was looking out the front door today, I was struck by how I responded to the gray, rainy day. Many times when we have this kind of weather day it is associated with a gloomy perspective. Often, a day like this is seen as a time of melancholy and sadness. But, today, and as on many other occasions, our Gracious Lord challenged me in how I perceive things.

Today was all but gloomy, it was REFRESHING! We have had a long dry spell here in the Rio Grande Valley, so this rain is a blessing! The rain is necessary. It nourishes the earth. It brings life!

Good Times

2010-12-26T18:00:00.003-06:00

His Humble Birth

2010-12-26T17:36:00.004-06:00

Tenderly she held the Babe,
And looked at Him with love.
Her heart was filled with wonderment,
about her Christ child from above.

This truly was the Son of God
was what the Angel told.
Her tiny Baby full of grace,
such a wonder to behold.

She thought of what His life would bring,
He was born to set us free.
But she only saw her infant Son,
As a Mothers love would see.

The shepherds came, the wise men too,
To praise His Holy name.
She sat in awe, and held her Child,
While those to worship came.

She must have wondered why God's Son
was born to her this day.
She wanted so much to be worthy,
as she bowed her head to pray..

Mary wrapped her robe a little closer,
around her new born Son.
The chill of this old stable,
must not touch the chosen one

It was a humble birth,
But a King was born that day.
He came to pay the price for us,
to wash our sins away.

- Verna Park

Charlie Brown Christmas

2010-12-16T19:39:00.000-06:00

Linus and Luke

2010-12-16T19:33:00.002-06:00

Schulz insisted on one core purpose: "A Charlie Brown Christmas" had to be about something. Namely, the true meaning of Christmas. Otherwise, Schulz said, "Why bother doing it?"

Wonderful, Merciful Savior

2010-12-12T14:56:00.001-06:00

Wonderful, merciful Savior
Precious Redeemer and friend
Who would have thought that a lamb could
Rescue the souls of men
Oh, You rescue the souls of men

Counselor, Comforter, Keeper
Spirit we long to embrace
You offer hope when our hearts have
Hopelessly lost the way
Oh, we hopelessly lost the way

~Chorus~

You are the one that we praise
You are the one we adore
You give the healing and grace
Our hearts always hunger for
Oh, our hearts always hunger for.

From: http://www.musicbabylon.com

Almighty, infinite Father
Faithfully loving Your own
Here in our weakness You find us
Falling before Your throne
Oh, we're falling before Your throne

~Chorus~

From: http://www.musicbabylon.com

While singing this song during worship this morning, I pondered each of these verses. It was as though my soul was drinking them in. I was not really aware of what could be considered a slight dry spell in my spirit lately, but when I sang these words along with others in the family of God, I could not help but be refreshed.

Often, I press on in this life in my own strength. I grow so weary and it seems so very burdensome, and then...as our Wonderful, Merciful Savior does, He refreshes me. He gently takes my face and turns it towards His.

When He does this, all the more do I want to share this source of refreshment with others. I want to hold their hand and and say that He gives us "the healing and grace our hearts always hunger for." We can fall before Him in our weakness and He will meet us there.

Even now, as we celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus, we find He is meeting us in our weakness. So precious.

Thank You, Lord!

2010-11-25T21:12:00.004-06:00

Parades on TV

Family Together

Fellowship

Roasted Turkey
Green Bean Casserole
Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
Traditional Herb Dressing
Homemade Bread
Gravy
Cranberry Sauce

Sweet Tea
Unsweetened Tea

Cream Cheese Pie (with or without cherries)

Good Pot of Coffee

And BLESSINGS TOO NUMEROUS TO COUNT!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU ALL!

In Worship

2010-11-14T08:58:00.004-06:00

"Be not only attentive in hearing, but retentive after hearing." ~ Thomas Watson

Hymns: Lift High the Cross

2010-11-07T18:09:00.008-06:00

Today, we sang Lift High the Cross written by George W. Kitchin in 1887.
I wanted to share these verses.

Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim,
Till all the world adore His sacred name.
Thy kingdom come, that earth's despair may cease
Beneath the shadow of its healing peace.

Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim,
Till all the world adore His sacred name.
For Thy blest cross which doth for us atone,
Creation's praises rise before Thy throne.

May we lift high the cross today and every day!

Bye-Bye Beige...Hello Prairie Dance

2010-11-07T17:27:00.005-06:00

Finally, after almost three years, we painted the cabinets with Woodlawn Lace and the walls Prairie Dance by Valspar from Lowe's. Oh, it is so refreshing and crisp!

(PS disregard the clutter... :-) ).

Vegetarian Black-Bean Chili

2010-10-31T17:21:00.002-05:00

Vegetarian Black-Bean Chili
taken from Everyday Food Magazine October 2007

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
coarse salt and ground pepper
2 zucchini (about 1 pound total), halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise
2 carrots, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 cans (19 ounces each) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 package (10 ounces) frozen corn kernels, thawed

In a 5-quart dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; season with salt and pepper. Cook stirring occasionally, until beginning to soften, about 4 minutes.

Add zucchini, carrots, chili powder, and cumin. Cook stirring occasionally, until carrots are crisp-tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Add beans, tomatoes, corn, and 1 cup water. Simmer until slightly thickened and carrots are soft, 8 to 10 minutes more.

Topping Suggestions:

tortilla chips
sour cream
shredded cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack
halved cherry tomatoes
thinly sliced scallions
diced avocado

ENJOY this delightful taste sensation during this fall season! :-)

Jesus, Like a Shepherd Lead Us

2010-10-31T12:41:00.013-05:00

Jesus, Like a Shepherd Lead Us is a marvelous hymn written by William B. Bradbury in 1859. In the Trinity Hymnal there are four verses of which the third is my favorite.

Thou hast promised to receive us, poor and sinful though we be;
Thou hast mercy to relieve us, grace to cleanse, and pow'r to free:

Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, let us early turn to thee;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, let us early turn to thee.

Artwork: Jesus the Good Shepherd fresco from the Catacombs of San Callisto

Something Unexpected!

2010-08-25T22:32:00.002-05:00

I was not expecting this....
I have no words to describe how funny I think this is! Those Geico commercial writers are hilarious! How do they do it? Enjoy!

White as Snow

2010-08-24T17:21:00.013-05:00

Seeing my freshly washed white towels drying on the line, I was reminded of one of the most precious aspects about being a child of God through Christ is that by grace we are made white as snow. By God's free gift of grace through Christ we are cleansed from the inside out. This is such an amazing thought!

In Transforming Grace by Jerry Bridges, he reminds us that there is no way that we can possibly appreciate the greatness and beauty of God's grace unless we truly contrast it with our broken, sinful lives. Bridges put it this way, "The problem is our shallow view of sin...Sin is not only a series of actions, it is also an attitude that ignores the law of God...we can never rightly understand God's grace until we understand our plight as those who need His grace."

Ephesians chapter 2 is clear that "once we were doomed forever to live just like the rest of the world, full of sin...All of us used to live that way, following the passions and desires of our evil nature...but God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even while we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's special favor (grace) that you have been saved!)...God saved you by his special favor (grace) when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it."

By His grace HE saves us and then he proceeds with the process of cleansing us from all unrighteousness. "...if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong. (1 John 1:9)."

Isaiah 1:18 is beautiful...

"...No matter how deep the stain of your sins, I can remove it. I can make you as clean as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can make you as white as wool."

"If you are thirsty, you may drink."

2010-08-15T20:02:00.005-05:00

"If you are thirsty, you may drink."

They were the first words she had heard since Scrubb had spoke to her on the edge of the cliff. For a second she stared here and there, wondering who had spoken. Then the voice said again, "If you are thirsty, come and drink," and of course she remembered what Scrubb had said about animals talking in that other world, and realized that it was the lion speaking. Anyway, she had seen its lips move this time, and the voice was not like a man's. It was deeper, wilder, and stronger; a sort of heavy, golden voice. It did not make her any less frightened than she had been before, but it made her frightened in rather a different way.

"Are you not thirsty?" said the Lion.
"I'm dying of thirst," said Jill.
"Then drink," said the Lion.
"May I -- could I -- would you mind going away while I do?" said Jill.

The Lion answered this only by a look and a very low growl. And as Jill gazed at its motionless bulk, she realized that she might as well have asked the whole mountain to move aside for her convenience.
The delicious rippling noise of the stream was driving her nearly frantic.

"Will you promise not to -- do anything to me, if I do come?" said Jill.
"I will make no promise," said the Lion.
Jill was so thirsty now that, without noticing it, she had come a step nearer.
"Do you eat girls?" she said.
"I have swallowed up girls and boys, women and men, kings and emperors, cities and realms," said the Lion. It didn't say this as if it were boasting, nor as if it were sorry, nor as if it were angry. It just said it.
"I daren't come and drink," said Jill.
"Then you will die of thirst," said the Lion.
"Oh dear!" said Jill, coming another step nearer. "I suppose I must go and look for another stream then."
"There is no other stream." said the Lion.

It never occurred to Jill to disbelieve the Lion -- no one who had seen his stern face could do that -- and her mind suddenly made itself up. It was the worse thing she ever had to do, but she went forward to the stream, knelt down, and began scooping up water in her hand. It was the coldest, most refreshing water she had ever tasted. You didn't need to drink much of it, for it quenched your thirst at once. Before she tasted it she had been intending to make a dash away from the Lion the moment she had finished. Now, she realized that this would be on the whole the most dangerous thing of all. She got up and stood there with her lips wet from drinking.

"Come here," said the Lion. And she had to. She was almost between its front paws now, looking straight into its face. But she couldn't stand that for long; she dropped her eyes.

We are reading the The Silver Chair, the sixth book in The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis, aloud as a family and the older I get the more I appreciate them! Oh, how I can relate to Jill in the above excerpt! There are times when my spirit is ever so thirsty! I know where to go to drink and quench my thirsty spirit, yet in my sinful self, I hesitate and find every excuse as to why I don't. Then, kindly, gently, and even somewhat sternly, but lovingly, HE encourages me to just come and drink.

"Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life." ~ John 4:13-14

"If you are thirsty, you may drink."

Sometimes You Feel Like a Nut, Sometimes You Don't

2010-08-15T19:09:00.006-05:00

I just had to share this with you!
Brace yourselves! If you have never had Texas Sheet Cake...I invite you to take the time to whip up this delightful taste sensation! It is perfect for any time there is a need for a chocolate fix!

Here we go...

Cake:
2 Cups all-purpose flour
2 Cups sugar
1 Teaspoon baking soda
1/4 Teaspoon salt
1 Cup butter
1/3 Cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 Eggs
1/2 Cup buttermilk
1-1/2 Teaspoons vanilla

Frosting:
1/4 Cup butter
3 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
3 Tablespoons buttermilk
2-1/4 Cups powdered sugar
1/2 Teaspoon vanilla
3/4 Cup chopped pecans (very Texan :-) , but optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 17 x 12 x 1-inch OR 15 x 10 x 1 OR 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan; set aside. In a medium bowl stir together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

2. In a medium saucepan combine butter, cocoa powder, and 1 cup water. Bring mixture just to boiling, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Add cocoa mixture to flour mixture and beat with an electric mixer on medium to high speed until thoroughly combined. Add eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla. Beat for 1 minute (batter will be thin). Pour batter into the prepared pan.

3. Bake about 20 minutes for the 17 x 12 x 1 - inch pan; bake 25 minutes for the 15 x 10 x 1 - inch pan; bake 35 minutes for the 13 x 9 x 2 - inch pan, or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

4. While cake is baking, prepare the frosting in a medium saucepan by combining butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, and buttermilk. Bring to boiling. Remove from heat. Add powdered sugar and vanilla to the cocoa mixture. Beat until smooth.

5. Pour warm frosting over cake, spreading evenly. (If desired, this is where you sprinkle the pecans, if you feel like a nut, that is! :-) ) Cool in pan on wire rack for 1 hour. Cut into squares!

Serve warm with a scoop of homemade vanilla favored ice cream! ENJOY!!! Let me know what you think!

2 Corinthians 4:8

2010-08-08T22:58:00.006-05:00

Vincent Van Gogh

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.

A Gift from a Friend

2010-08-03T15:04:00.008-05:00

For my 40th, my dear friend, PQ, sent me such a wonderful surprise. I have to say that it revealed her knowledge of who I am and what I appreciate.

Even though she and I are separated by a great distance through our Sisterhood-in-Christ we can still be confident that our friendship endures.

PQ and I have grown so much together in our walk with our Savior and I am greatly appreciative of her faithfulness not just to me, but most especially to our Lord and Savior Jesus. Thanks, PQ! Savor a cup with me, even if it is at a distance! :-) Miss you!

Though its waters roar...

2010-08-01T22:03:00.008-05:00

The photo above was taken in Corpus Christi during Hurricane Alex. What I so appreciate about the shot is the bird in flight. It fascinates me to think that the bird appears to be unaffected by the intense storm raging around it. "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though its waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with its swelling. (Psalm 46:1)."

July 7, 1990

2010-07-10T13:25:00.005-05:00

I am so thankful for my earthly father.
20 years ago our world was rocked by our losing him,
but God in His goodness has led us through that loss.

We honor you and miss you, Dad.

HAPPY B-DAY, Man-O-The-House!

2010-06-16T00:05:00.006-05:00

Last week, we celebrated the Man-O-The-House's birthday! We had all of his favorites! Spaghetti using "GRANNY'S" Homemade Sauce recipe, salad, homemade bread, followed by a cream cheese pie with a hint of lime! It was a joy for the kids and me to plan a special day for him! HE IS A BLESSING!!! Thank you, Lord!

Out with the Old, In with the New

2010-05-26T10:01:00.008-05:00

We ripped out the old carpet in our bedrooms

and replaced it with nice new carpet! The best part is that it is CLEAN!

Ephesians 4:21-24 comes to mind...

"If indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness."

Through Christ, WE are putting off the old and putting on the new!
Through Christ, WE are declared CLEAN in the sight of Almighty God!

All glory and praise and thanks to HIM!

Yummy!

2010-05-26T09:29:00.006-05:00

We bought one of these...

So we can take this...

So we can enjoy this...

Great for snacks, cereal, muffins, granola bars, etc...

Peace Like a River

2010-05-26T09:24:00.011-05:00

This picture was taken as we drove over a little spillway bridge on the Blanco River that runs in the Texas Hill Country. It seems a perfect example of having "peace like a river." It was such a picture of tranquility.

History...in the hands of God

2010-05-25T09:22:00.006-05:00

"Each man lives for himself, uses his freedom to achieve his personal goals and feels with his whole being that right now he can or cannot do such-and-such and action; but as soon as he does it, this action, committed at a certain moment in time, becomes irreversible and makes itself the property of history, in which it has not a free but a predestined significance.

There are two sides to each man's life: his personal life, which is the more free the more abstract its interests, and his elemental, swarmlike life, where man inevitably fulfills the laws prescribed for him.

Man lives consciously for himself, but serves as an unconscious instrument for the achievement of historical, universally human goals. An action once committed is irrevocable, and its effect, coinciding in time with millions of actions of other people, acquires historical significance. The higher a man stands on the social ladder, the greater the number of people he is connected with, the more power he has over other people, the more obvious is the predestination and inevitability of his every action.

'The hearts of the kings are in the hands of God.' " *

~~ Leo Tolstoy, War & Peace, Volume 3, Part 1, Page 605

*Proverbs 21:1

War and Peace Update

2010-05-25T09:11:00.006-05:00

May 21st, Finished Volume 3: Part 1 Pages 603-681
Read on!

Let us go...

2010-05-16T09:03:00.009-05:00

"I was glad when they
said to me, 'Let us go
to the house of the LORD.'"
Psalm 122:1

Sanctification, the Gardening of the Inner Man

2010-05-15T12:19:00.008-05:00

As in all of life, all things point us back to Christ. As I have been tending to the landscaping projects in our yard, I have enjoyed pondering how the Holy Spirit continues to "weed out," or sanctify, the lives of His children. After about an hour of turning the soil in the flower beds, it appears that all the weeds have been uprooted and removed. But another closer look reveals that right at the base of each of the beautifully blooming plants there are weeds growing ever so close...almost undetectable. As I remove those pesky weeds, the flowers and plants are allowed to flourish. They are not being choked out by what is unnecessary or harmful.

This is such a great picture of what sin is like in our lives. Even when all appears neat and tidy, even beautiful, from a distance, the up close and personal examination exposes those not so obvious sins. Those sneaky ones that want to closely take root where we --in and of ourselves--are not so aware. It is His Spirit through the use of His word that reveals those hidden weeds in our lives. When He lovingly exposes these areas in our hearts, He changes it and by His grace, we are able to reflect more beautifully the image of Christ. We are being sanctified! This is where my appreciation for the faithful work of the Holy Spirit abounds!

Louis Berkhof says this, "Sanctification may be defined as that gracious and continuous operation of the Holy Spirit, by which He delivers the justified sinner from the pollution (or weeds in this analogy) of sin, renews his whole nature in the image of God, and enables him to perform good works."

FAITH * FAMILY * FRIENDS

2010-05-14T13:37:00.006-05:00

My dear friend, BI, sent the wall decals for my birthday in 2008. It was a great gift considering we had just moved into our new home. It is perfect because in our home these are our priorities. They remind me to "love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself." BI, your thoughtfulness is such a blessing as well. I praise God for our friendship! Now come see it in person! :-)

A Work in Progress

2010-05-10T21:02:00.014-05:00

July 2008

December 2008

This photo and the four following were taken April 2010.

One of my projects since we moved here May of 2008 has been to add some color and variety to our backyard. So far we have added some live oaks, geraniums, esperanza, lantana (great for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies!), Texas mountain laurel, night blooming jasmine, Carolina jasmine, Confederate jasmine, zinnias, and a few containers of herbs and tomatoes! We are so excited. We have a lot more ideas to make reality! I will keep you posted!

Take thy plastic spade,
It is thy pencil; take thy seeds, thy plants,
They are thy colours.
~William Mason, The English Garden, 1782

Rejoice with those who rejoice...

2010-05-10T20:38:00.007-05:00

REJOICE! Dear ones!

The Lord is so good! He has faithfully supplied the necessary support our friends, the Clows!

They arrived in Honduras on May the 4th! We were so excited and we rejoiced with them as they have been waiting patiently for His provision. We had the privilege of spending their last couple days in the states with them! What a blessing to share in this with them! Now, we cannot wait to visit them in La Ceiba!!!

Weep with those who weep...

2010-04-18T14:43:00.005-05:00

As I share in the burden of some one so dear to me, I have experienced this process more deeply than can be described. I am reminded that this is such a serious part of our Christian walk. As we see others suffering we are called to suffer with them...weep with them.

As I am a great distance from this person, I have been challenged in my prayer life, in a way that I have not been challenged before. In this moment, I cannot "do" anything else but continuously intercede, listen, and encourage. Oh, how I wait for the Lord to minister through HIS Spirit to my dear one.

Do I believe that the Lord will hear and answer...YES! His faithfulness to HIS children is unfailing! His WORD is OVERFLOWING with HIS promises. I cling to them and I share them, all the while, knowing HE will honor HIS Word.

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

Isaiah 40:29-31
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,
They will walk and not be faint.

AHHHH! Sweet Sabbath!

2010-03-28T15:21:00.008-05:00

Imagine it.

We are always longing for rest from the race of life. We run and run all during the week. How many times during the week do we say to ourselves..."Whew, I sure could use a break."

I even think about kindergarten when we were required to have 'rest' time..."Why did I not appreciate it when I had the opportunity!!??"

Well, we are blessed beyond measure by our Great God who has purposefully set one day in seven for rest...REAL rest. I used to try to finagle my Sundays because I thought that it was a burden to set aside a morning for church and on top of that to set apart a DAY...a whole day for rest and reflection on God!!! No way, that is too legalistic. That is too confining and restricting.

I have come to realize what a precious gift it is to have one day in seven to rest! It hit me..."Wow, I am always thinking about how much I have to do and how busy I am and how tired I am!! HE has commanded me to rest...think about it..."Hey you, I designed this day for you to rest!" Does this sound oppressive? Does the idea of a day of rest seem mean? Does the setting aside of a day that is designed to restore, renew and refresh us for the rest of the week sound like something that is to make us unhappy? Whoa! It is designed for our GOOD!!! We NEED rest! We NEED a renewing of body and spirit.

As I examine God's design for a sabbath rest, the more I realize how truly loving and personal HE is. He knows us better than we know ourselves and HE reminds us that rest is so very necessary for LIFE. We long for our vacations...well, technically, from the very beginning, we have been given a ONE day "vacation" each week.

So, today, as I marvel at this gift of rest. I pray that you will enjoy this day. Set apart from the hubbub of the rest of the week. I encourage you to set aside this day to renew and refresh and re-align.

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."--Matthew 11:28

Welcome, Grandma B!

2010-02-26T15:36:00.004-06:00

It was one of the coldest weeks so far in 2010. She was a great sport!
We celebrated A.'s eighth birthday and went to South Padre Island to see the Sea Turtles!
What a wonderful visit! Thanks for coming!

Celtic Music

2010-02-01T23:02:00.007-06:00

A couple weeks ago, Sc. and I went to see Celtic Crossroads in concert. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THEIR SHOW! It was amazing and these musicians are truly talented. Several of them play at least three different instruments! Check them out!

5K

2010-01-23T13:13:00.005-06:00

The title of my blog, Running the Race, reveals how I look at this life we live, especially as believers in Jesus. There are so many parallels and Scripture speaks of running this race with perseverance.

As many of you already know, running is a great escape for me. The distances may vary and during this season of life the frequency can vary. Still it remains a favorite way for me to just be and think. As an introvert, this is an activity that just meets me where I am.

I competed when I was in Jr. High (440, 880 and the mile relay--I know this dates me!)...cheerleading (;-) took precedence in high school and in college I toyed with the idea of "walking-on" the track team. Instead, I chose to run more just for recreation. Since then, I have run in a 5K and a 10K (before marriage and kids). So, lately, as time has allowed, I have enjoyed getting out there more regularly to pound the pavement. Having missed the opportunity to run the Causeway Run from Port Isabel to South Padre Island Jan. 9th, I found that right here there was to be a 5k...so, I did it! It was great fun!

Here is the funny thing, Sc. and the kids came to spur me on and they followed beside me nearly the whole time and I DIDNT EVEN SEE THEM ONCE!!! They were cheering, "Yeah, Mommy! Go, Mommy!" Sandra McCracken, Fernando Ortega, Enya and Coldplay were drowning out the precious shouts of my family! I was literally in my internal world! :-)! I so wish I could rewind and see that all over again! Still, just knowing they were there cheering and encouraging me on even when I didnt know it at the time, does my heart good and brings me great joy!! It made me think of that great cloud of witnesses that we cannot see here on this side of eternity, but they are there cheering us on.

When the race started, there was that great sense of participating with others in this event. It was a vivid picture of how we are in the same race with the same goal (to finish) and on the same course. We each have our different styles and differents paces. Yet, the idea that these people were "with" me in this endeavor pushed me even more.

As I continue to run this race of faith, I want to be more engaged---aware. I want to be mindful of those who are cheering me on (seen and unseen) and I want to be diligent to spur on those around me to keep going, keep running...with our eyes fixed on the Ultimate Prize.

So, dear ones, "Yeah! Go! YOU can do it! RUN!"

Minuteman Appeal for Haiti and the Philippines

2010-01-15T13:43:00.003-06:00

Mission to the World, the missions branch of our denomination, Prebyterian Church of America, has issued this urgent announcement on behalf of the recent events in Haiti and in the Philippines. Please prayerfully consider if there is some way that you could minister to these places in need.

Can you relate?

2010-01-15T13:02:00.003-06:00

This just made me laugh! A. and R. both have washing electronics under their belts!

When A. was 4 years-old, she lovingly washed E.'s personal video player. Then when R. was two, she carefully washed A.'s Nintendo DS. It's the thought that counts, right? :-)

Precious Words

2010-01-10T17:20:00.006-06:00

Sermon on the Mount

by Carl Heinrich Block, 1890

Matthew 5:3-10

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

A New Year Begins and So Does War and Peace...

2010-01-09T18:17:00.005-06:00

With the New Year just beginning, I am excited about the possibilities and opportunities that await. One of the challenges I look forward to face head-on is reading War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy.

A dear sister-in-Christ and I attempted to read this great novel in 2009, but it was to no avail!

So, we are remotivated to tackle this feat! The giant has been broken down into a manageable reading plan which looks like this...

Week 1
Volume 1: Part 1
Pages 3-111

Week 2
Volume 1: Part 2
Pages 112-200

Week 3
Volume 1: Part 3
Pages 201-294

Week 4
Volume 2: Part 1
Pages 297-346

Week 5
Volume 2: Part 2
Pages 347-417

Week 6
Volume 2: Part 3
Pages 418-487

Week 7
Volume 2: Part 4
Pages 488-534

Week 8
Volume 2: Part 5
Pages 535-600

Week 9
Volume 3: Part 1
Pages 603-681

Week 10
Volume 3: Part 2 (to XXVI)
Pages 682-780

Week 11
Volume 3: Part 2 (from XXVII)
Pages 780-820

Week 12
Volume 3: Part 3 (to XX)
Pages 821-875

Week 13
Volume 3: Part 3 (from XXI)
Pages 876-932

Week 14
Volume 4: Part 1
Pages 935-986

Week 15
Volume 4: Part 2
Pages 987-1030

Week 16
Volume 4: Part 3
Pages 1031-1074

Week 17
Volume 4: Part 4
Pages 1075-1125

Week 18
Epilogue: Part 1
Pages 1129-1178

Week 19
Epilogue: Part 2
Pages 1179-1215

Pick up a Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonsky translation published by Random House and join us!!!

All My Heart This Night Rejoices

2009-12-25T20:43:00.004-06:00

All my heart this night rejoices
As I hear far and near sweetest angel voices.
"Christ is born," their choirs are singing
Till the air everywhere now with joy is ringing.

Shall we still dread God's displeasure,
Who, to save, freely gave, His most cherished Treasure?
To redeem us, he hath given
his own Son from the throne of his might in heaven.

He becomes the Lamb that taketh
Sin away and for aye full atonement maketh.
For our life his own he tenders;
And our race, by his grace, meet for glory renders.

Hark! a voice from yonder manger,
Soft and sweet, doth entreat: "Flee from woe and danger.
Brethren, from all ills that grieve you,
You are freed; all you need I will surely give you."

Come, then, banish all your sadness,
One and all, great and small; come with songs of gladness.
Love him who with love is glowing;
Hail the star, near and far light and joy bestowing.

Dearest Lord, thee will I cherish.
Though my breath fail in death, yet I shall not perish,
But with thee abide forever
There on high, in that joy which can vanish never!

~~Paul Gerhardt, 1653

BEAMM Team!

2009-12-16T23:10:00.007-06:00

Another dear family we know is preparing to come to the border to work with BEAMM (Border Evangelism And Mercy Ministry).

They have a passion to follow where the Lord leads and they have a passion to serve in the unique culture along the U.S. and Mexico border.

We are so encouraged by their testimony of faithfulness to the call!

Then Pealed the Bells More Loud and Deep

2009-12-05T13:09:00.006-06:00

In 1861, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was filled with sorrow because he had lost his wife tragically in a fire and in the same year the Civil War broke out. Just two short years later, Longfellow's own son was seriously wounded in the Army of the Potomac.

One Christmas Day, while sitting down at his desk, he heard the church bells ringing, which inspired him to pen these words:

I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men!

And thought how, as the day had come
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along
The unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men!

Till, ringing, singing on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime,
A chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men!

And in despair I bowed my head;
"There is no peace on earth," I said;
"For hate is strong
And mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep.
"God is not dead, nor doth he sleep!
The wrong shall fail,
The right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men!"

Gratitude

2009-11-27T21:12:00.002-06:00

There is so much in my life for which to be grateful. I confess that so often I just go day-to-day taking so much for granted. Unfortunately, this is all to easy for me.

Elisabeth Elliot has been and continues to be one of the most influential people in my life and tonight I read this archive of one of her Gateway to Joy radio broadcasts. The title is Our Attitude and Response. What a great exhortation for my distracted soul!

Thanksgiving Proclamation by George Washington

2009-11-25T13:50:00.012-06:00

Click
image to

enlarge

The Field: Honduras

2009-11-19T08:34:00.008-06:00

Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exists because worship doesn't...Worship, therefore, is the fuel and goal in missions. It's the goal of missions because in missions we simply aim to bring the nations into the white-hot enjoyment of God's glory. The goal of missions is the gladness of the peoples in the greatness of God...Missionaries can never call out, "Let the nations be glad!", who cannot say from the heart, "I rejoice in the Lord...I will be glad and exult in thee, I will sing praise to thy name, O Most High" (Psalm 104.34; 9.2). Missions begins and ends in worship."

~ John Piper, Let the Nations Be Glad

Dear friends of ours have been laboring in the mission field here along the border for five years. Just this summer they received an invitation to serve on a church-planting team in La Ceiba, Honduras. To know more of the what and where of their calling as a family check out their blog here.

We cannot thank the Lord enough for His allowing our paths to cross here on the border! It is evident that they can say from the heart, "I rejoice in the Lord...I will be glad and exult in thee..." Through their labor may people of Honduras worship!

All in a day...

2009-11-16T21:25:00.002-06:00

Read this yesterday.

I highly recommend it.

Comfort

2009-11-08T09:42:00.003-06:00

Man's faith may fail him sometimes, but God's faithfulness never fails him. -- William Greenhill

"O God, send help." The prayer of Martin Luther just before the Diet of Worms in 1521

"Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles! Laud Him, all you peoples! For His merciful kindness is great toward us, And the truth of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD!" -- Psalm 117

Lines, Shapes, and Color, Oh My!

2009-10-24T21:30:00.008-05:00

I am teaching an Elements of Art class to 2nd and 3rd grade homeschoolers.
Here are the seven basic elements of art we are covering:
Lines
Shapes
Color
Value
Texture
Form
Space
The first two classes we spent time discovering how lines and shapes are used in art. AND yesterday, we enjoyed mixing primary colors to make secondary colors, etc. The final project for the day was to combine the first three elements we have talked about and results were wonderful! It is really great to see the children be so creative!

This Painting by Frank Stella entitled: Tahkt-I-Sulayman Variation II, is one of my favorites which combines all three of these elements.

Sometimes, I have to laugh...

2009-10-17T12:35:00.010-05:00

...because on occasion, I enjoy perusing some blogs where ladies with great decorating sense share some ideas on the subject of making a home feel "homey."

Here are a couple I enjoy...

The Inspired Room

and

A Soft Place to Land

Well, I could never be as savvy as these ladies, but I do make an effort here and there. The kids have been very helpful in assisting me in this endeavor of making our home feel "homey". Take a look at some of our before and after photos that capture the true spirit of our home...and as they say on HGTV, "Rate My Space."

The Living Room:

BEFORE

The Living Room:

AFTER

Notice the precise placement of "Big Baby", carefully resting on a comfy pillow.

What do ya think? I think they have been quite effective in making our home feel "homey". I love it!!!

Ponder This...

2009-10-13T00:06:00.003-05:00

Here are the words for one of my most favorite hymns. It tells of Christ's redeeming of His people--His Church.

The words truly encourage my soul and I pray they will do the same for you.

She Must and Shall Go Free
taken from For all the Saints: Indelible Grace III

Mercy speaks by Jesus' blood; Hear and sing, ye sons of God;
Justice satisfied indeed; Christ has full atonement made.

Jesus' blood speaks loud and sweet; Here all Deity can meet,
And, without a jarring voice, Welcome Zion to rejoice,
Welcome Zion to rejoice.

Chorus:
All her debts were cast on Me, and she must and shall go free.
All her debts were cast on Me, and she must and shall go free.

Peace of conscience, peace with God, We obtain through Jesus' blood;
Jesus' blood speaks solid rest; We believe, and we are blest.
We believe and we are blest.

Bridge:
Should the law against her roar, Jesus' blood still speaks with power,
"All her debts were cast on Me, And she must and shall go free.
She must and shall go free."

Today, He Would Have Been 66.

2009-09-22T23:10:00.002-05:00

He enjoyed watching his family enjoying themselves around him.
He would observe quietly with a contented smile as though he was soaking in what was happening around him.

He was a protector.
He was a encourager.
He was a supporter.

He was not interested in being the center of attention.
He was a humble man.
He was a faithful man.
He was a dependable man.

He was a patient man.

He was a kind, kind man.

He was funny.
He was creative.
He was authentic.

He was my Dad, and today, he would have been 66.

The Lord blessed me with a wonderful earthly father. I am more than grateful.

10 YEARS and counting!

2009-09-05T15:11:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Sc. and I celebrated 10 years of marriage! We went to the beach to enjoy reading and talking. We watched moon come up and then went to a cute Italian Grill on the island for a great calzone big enough for two!!!

We consider it a blessing and a joy! We look forward to more fun together!

RAIN!

2009-09-01T00:44:00.000-05:00

We have had very little rain since late May. So when the Heavens opened up the other day, we rejoiced! We continue to rejoice because we have more in the forecast!!!

Ahhhhhh.....

2009-08-25T22:26:00.002-05:00

...all quiet on the home front and a great cup of coffee via the french press. What a way to close out a great Tuesday.

We rejoice today as Sc. began his first men's group Bible study since we moved here a year and a half ago. It has been a blessing for him to build relationships with this neat group of men, and now it is time to dig into the Word and learn more of what the Lord's design for spiritual leadership means. They will be meeting the last Tuesday of each month. So, I would ask for prayer over this precious time. We know that we need prayer and we appreciate yours!

Back to Blogging

2009-08-16T18:37:00.006-05:00

After a long hiatus, I am back to the bloggy world and I am looking forward to it!

All His Excellencies

2009-07-18T10:59:00.006-05:00

“God’s name comprises all His excellencies:
Might, righteousness, wisdom, mercy, truth.
Great and wonderful is He;
For He is righteous;
For He is wise;
For He is merciful;
For He is mighty;
For He is true
And so we petition:
In all His excellencies,
His majesty be hallowed.” ~John Calvin

Privilege

2009-05-17T22:03:00.006-05:00

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand." ~~ John 10:27-28

Today, through Sc.'s sermon on John 10:22-42, I was reminded of the privilege as His child I have of sharing about His love, grace, and mercy. It truly is amazing to know that we get to participate in His making Himself known!

Fun Free Finds For Homeschooling

2009-04-14T12:16:00.006-05:00

USDA Food Safety Printable Coloring Book

Department of Agriculture Printable Coloring Book: George Washington Carver

How-To Video to make friendship bracelets

Bibliomania: Free Online Literature with more than 2000 Classic Texts

Dr. Suess Story Maker

Praise!

2009-04-12T17:22:00.003-05:00

"He is not here; for He is risen, as He said..." Matthew 28:6

Superiority Complex

2009-04-07T15:04:00.005-05:00

I read this interesting article at The Atlantic by David Brooks. The title of the article is "Superiority Complex". Here are a few quotes...

"We have democratized elitism in this country. There is no longer a clear pecking order, with the Vanderbilts and the Biddles and the Roosevelts at the top and everybody else down below. Everybody gets to be an aristocrat now. And the number of social structures is infinite. You can be an outlaw-biker aristocrat, a corporate-real-estate aristocrat, an X Games aristocrat, a Pentecostal-minister aristocrat. You will have your own code of honor and your own field of accomplishment. And everybody can be a snob, because everybody can look down from the heights of his mountaintop at those millions of poor saps who are less accomplished in the field of, say, skateboard jumping, or who are total poseurs when it comes to financial instruments, or who are sadly backward when it comes to social awareness or the salvation of their own souls."

"It is possible, maybe even inevitable, that you will slide into a solipsism that allows you precious little contact with people totally unlike yourself. But in your enclosed sphere you will feel very important."

I highly recommend this article because I am challenged to examine myself and ask not if I do this, but how and where do I do this. It reminds me of our constant battle with pride. In CS Lewis' Mere Christianity, he exposes this vice in chapter eight. "There is one vice of which no man in the world is free; which every one in the world loathes when he sees it in someone else; and of which hardly any people, except Christians, ever imagine that they are guilty themselves."

As we have been bought at a price (1 Corinthians 6:20), our constant challenge is to die-to-self and live for Christ. Through Him and in Him we do not have to indulge this vice. But we fix our eyes on Him who is the Way, the Truth and the Life, who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man he humbled himself and became obedient to death--even death on a cross...

If Christ the King can humble Himself in this great manner...oh, how can I not....

I praise Him for His grace!

Onward, Christian soldiers, eyes fixed on HIM, not on self.

"For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Phil 1:21)

Bloom and Grow

2009-04-06T23:33:00.005-05:00

"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work." --Thomas A. Edison

Today, I worked in the yard and the children enjoyed running around the backyard "helping out" here and there. I thoroughly enjoy tending the yard. I planted six pepper plants which were a gift from a dear friend (her husband started them from seed---so precious.); transplanted two sago palms and a little chile pequino bush; transplanted the canna lillies and finally, I planted a rose bush that I recently purchased at half-price!

As I was getting my hands dirty and stocking up on the muscle pain which is sure to come tonight, I was thinking about how I hope that the children will appreciate the blessing of work---not just in the yard! There is so much to be thankful for in just the fact that we are able to work. I was praising the Lord for the strength to do what I did today. It will be a joy to watch the plants bloom and grow...as it will for me to watch my children bloom and grow.

To Whom Do You Surrender?

2009-03-20T11:56:00.000-05:00

"He who surrenders himself without reservation to the temporal claims of a nation, or a party, or a class is rendering to Caesar that which, of all things, most emphatically belongs to God: himself."~~ C.S. Lewis

It Is Great To Be Three!!

2009-03-18T21:04:00.005-05:00

R. celebrated her third bday on the sixth! She is such a blessing! She loves her purse and her pink blankie! She loves her dolls and her strawberry milk! We praise the Lord for her!

May she grow more and more in the knowledge of the One-Who-Made-Her. May she see clearly that he has fearly and wonderfully made her for His glory. May she walk closely with her Savior.

Seven Years Ago

2009-02-12T00:44:00.006-06:00

Seven years ago, on February 7th, we had the joy and blessing of the birth of our second child and our first little girl, A.

I rejoice in the Lord for her. She is such a wonderful gift from the Lord. Watching her grown more and more into a young lady is a humbling process. I smile as I write this because, I not only cherish what I have watched so far, but I look forward to what remains ahead.

As children of the God the Father, we have the peace of knowing HE is a covenant keeping God and HE will fulfill HIS promises to us. By His grace, A. will experience the joy of knowing her Father in Heaven will protect her and keep her.

My prayer for A. is that SHE, even at this very young age, will seek his face first and foremost. I pray that even at this very young age, she will see that she is fearfully and wonderfully made. I pray that even at this very young age, she will fix her eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of her faith. May she experience that peace that passes all understanding as she grows in the knowledge of the One-Who-Made-Her.

The Lowest Place

2009-02-12T00:21:00.004-06:00

by Christina Rossetti

Give me the lowest place: not that I dare
Ask for that lowest place, but Thou hast died
That I might live and share
Thy glory by Thy side.

Give me the lowest place: or if for me
That lowest place too high, make one more low
Where I may sit and see
My God and love Thee so.

Sweetness for the Soul

2009-01-11T21:12:00.004-06:00

Ecclesiastes 12:13

Fear God and keep His commandments for this is man's all.

A New Year: 2009

2009-01-11T20:48:00.006-06:00

Wow! The dust has finally settled after much holiday excitement! We were blessed in so many ways during this special time. As we review the happenings posted in this blog , we are reminded anew of the faithfulness of our Savior whose birth we just celebrated.

We pray that 2009 will be a year where you experience more intimately the presence of the Lord!

Press on in Him!

In Three Days

2008-12-14T17:42:00.006-06:00

On December 17th my four year-old will become my five year-old. Time for the 'ole cliche..."Time sure flies."

S. is such a blessing. He is adventurous and smiley. There is a kindness to him that I cherish. He is my "snuggle-buddy". I honestly do not know what I would do without him. :-) Even when he was teeny-tiny, he was a snuggler. Nearly every morning, I am guaranteed a giant snuggle from him!

My prayer for S. is that he will grow more and more into a man "after God's own heart." I pray that he will know the One-Who-Made him and that he will love the Lord his God with all of his heart, with all of mind and with all of his strength.

Views from the Valley

2008-12-09T11:59:00.004-06:00

Murals on buildings,
Sugar cane fields,
Sun over Laguna Madre,
Incredibly huge moths!

These are just a few unique things about the valley life. There is always something new to discover.

We look forward to sharing discoveries with some of you soon!

He Is Blessing His Church

2008-11-11T16:46:00.007-06:00

We have been here for almost 8 months and we have much to rejoice over!

Just last night Sc. visited two young couples who are interested in becoming members are CPC! This is an answer to prayer and it is a gracious way the Lord is showing us His faithfulness. He promised to grow His church and He is.

We have seen his faithfulness in raising up more people to lead music for worship. We have seen his faithfulness in raising up people to "go out" and minister in the community.

Here is just one example. The R.s are a retired couple originally from Minnesota who have been called to be missionaries to Mexico and on the border. They go into the prison Matemoros and share the Gospel to inmates. They also provide clothing, personal hygeine products, blankets, etc. to poor Mexican communities more in the interior of Mexico.

There is another member at CPC who is a single mom who is fluent in Spanish. She accompanies this couple to translate and she is an integral part of translating the Bible Study material into Spanish. This is such a blessing to all involved!

We just want to thank you for your prayers and support! God is wonderful and by His grace we do not need to be anxious for anything!

Sweetness for the Soul

2008-11-02T22:34:00.004-06:00

John 13: 1-15

It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love.

The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.