The Church Lady's Thoughts

Remember?

2011-04-27T07:40:00.000-07:00

Remember this picture?

Well, this baby came out of the cocoon and is on his way to flying....

So thankful for this healthy little boy, Mr. Finn Guillemette!

Love These Men

2011-04-07T19:39:00.000-07:00

I got a bit emotional tonight after listening to a love song that my daughter's fiance` posted to her on facebook and then after watching for the hundredth time, my grandson jumping off the table into his daddy's strong arms. These men who have come into our lives because they love our daughters, men I have wondered about and prayed for since my girls were born. These tall, strong men who can lift and tug and sweat and grunt, are an answer to this mother's prayers and I am thankful for them and loving how they are not afraid to show their feelings and affections.

Bob Newhart-Stop It!!

2011-03-29T18:06:00.000-07:00

The Eyes Have It

2011-03-07T10:20:00.000-08:00

I have been wearing eyeglasses since I was in the 6th grade. (should have probably been the 4th, but whatever.. it's ok that i couldn't see the ball to play baseball with the other kids and then never got picked to be on the team...no really, it's fine. I am so over it.) Back to the point.

Hasn't eyewear been a fun way to know what decade it is? Alot of us have old photos of our grandparents or parents with the cateye glasses with all the rhinestones for the ladies and the heavy black horn rim glasses for the men from the 50's and 60's. We saw hippy wire frames in the late 60s and seventies, and then my very personal favorite time, the HOW BIG CAN WE MAKE THEM style for men and women in the 80's, and then in the 90's Rimless frames for those trying to appear as if they weren't really wearing any.

Because I wore glasses for such a long time, I became quite conscious of the people who didn't wear glasses that were "current" with the styles of the day. I used to "note" people who hadn't updated their look in quite awhile. I probably made fun of some until my time came and I got a new perspective. This came when I got married and my husband and I were responsible for the expense instead of my parents! I was still accustomed to buying the latest style in fashion and when I chose the latest fad "How BIG can we make them" glasses in the early 80's, never in my wildest imagination would I have thought I would be wearing that same pair for years and years. Surely I would have chosen something a little more conservative but who knows. All I do know is that year after year, I am seen in many a photo wearing that same giant plastic frame that Liz Claiborne made famous so long ago. (I think she is still wearing them, except she might be dead). My children love to make fun of that look and I just remind them that because I was willing to sacrifice my style conscious pride and probably my precious eyesight too, they had shoes on their feet and food on the table. It is all about perspective.

And the big perspective for me is that I am so hugely thankful for the invention of eyeglasses. I am quite blind and back in the olden days would have been known as the ugly spinster sister who squinted. Because of glasses, I was able to snag a man and have it all! Thanks to Salvina D'Armate the inventor of eyeglasses. You helped make me (see) who I am today.

Let's talk about PAIN..or Not.

2011-02-27T10:04:00.000-08:00

Pain is not a fun subject. It isn't sexy or exciting and unless you are the one in pain it can actually be pretty boring.

Someone asks, "How are you?"

I reply, "I'm still hurting in my lower back and can barely sit upright due to muscle spasms and intense pain."

They reply, "So sorry you aren't feeling well."

Then they run before I get into more details. (wouldn't you run?)

OR...if they too have had back pain, they begin asking if I have used heat, used ice, gone to the doctor, if I have pain meds and one even asked if I had been hanging upside down.

"No, I haven't been hanging upside down, but thanks for asking."

Hurts just to think about it.

I am tired of hurting and my husband is tired of me hurting.

I am definately at the grumpy stage. Done with it and it aint' done yet. (did I mention that my husband is tired of me hurting?)

So for now, I will use ice, then heat, then ice, then heat and stretch and release and stretch and release, take pain medicine, take some more and maybe just maybe consider hanging upside down.

Now, you might still be wondering why there is a picture of a cowgirl on this blog about pain. Well, there isn't any reason, I just think she is cute and needed something cute and fun to help me forget the pain.

Because I love you

2011-02-14T11:21:00.001-08:00

The Bucket List

2011-02-05T20:08:00.000-08:00

Watching the movie, The Bucket List and keep thinking about a song we used to sing in grade school....There's A Whole In My Bucket.
Seems relevant.

Quote of the Day

2011-02-05T20:04:00.000-08:00

Carter (from The Bucket List):"Is he insane?"
Matthew: "Depends."

Dreaming on an Ice Day

2011-02-01T15:09:00.001-08:00

quote someone

2011-02-01T14:57:00.000-08:00

High school, those are your prime suffering years.
You don't get better suffering than that.
Uncle Frank, Little Miss Sunshine

Out of Balance

2011-01-20T12:12:00.001-08:00

I haven't been feeling well for a few weeks and finally got in to see my doctor. He listened to my symptoms of dizziness followed by nausea that would come upon me when I turned my head to the left and after doing a check up, diagnosed me with Vestibulitis (fancy word for vertigo). He said it was kind of like having a kidney stone in my ear... and apparently deep down in my inner ear, there is particle/s that are not where they should be and my brain sends messages that can't be understood so then my body responds with being out of balance which then causes the dizziness which then in turn causes the nausea. If you look it up it also talks about having a virus deep in the ear canal.
bored yet?
Now I have to do these weird head hanging over the bed exercises followed by sitting up really quickly. (trying to trick the ol ears and brain apparently into thinking everything is back in order)
really bored yet?
All that to say, it is really uncomfortable when your body is out of balance and this is just one of many ways my body is out of balance.
People often talk about finding that "balance" in their lives, and I am looking for that too. With weight gain and aging and old joints and ears out of whack... it really has hit home.
Even as I type this my head is spinning right round baby right round.... and I have to lean back and reposition my neck and wait it out.
As I spin, I finish (you are thanking God right now) and look forward to intentional living that will help with balance in most of the areas I have mentioned and I will keep doing the weird head thing so that I can help trick the ear thing so that I can get the dizziness thing to slow it down and get everything back in order. You know, that balance thing.

2011 is Here

2010-12-31T16:16:00.000-08:00

As you get older, you are VERY aware of how quickly your life is passing by. You start quoting to people about taking time to smell the roses and appreciating each day for all it's worth .....
yadda yadda yadda.
Sometimes you hide under the covers and hope it will slow down.
This year on my 54th birthday, I read Proverbs 31:25 about the 'noble woman', "she can laugh at the days to come" and decided to take it as my verse for the year.
Come on 2011. Bring it. I am choosing the more "noble" way.
While peeking out from under my covers, laughing hard,
and oh yeah, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Strolling Down Memory Lane

2010-12-25T18:27:00.000-08:00

Holidays bring out the old photos and the memories.... this was me at age 5. Darling doesn't even begin to describe this.

Confession and Choosing

2010-12-14T08:32:00.000-08:00

I am in a season of deliberate choosing.
Let's say Dean annoys the heck out of me.... and I get to choose my response. Do i smack him with some sarcasm or do i bless him with my words?
When someone balks at my controlling nature, do I inwardly begin to rage or do I let it go and really forget about it?
You would think that by the advanced age of ___, these attitudes would no longer be an issue, but instead I am being humbled daily with my tongue. It all goes back to the heart and if my tongue reflects my heart, then my heart needs some surgery.
So, Lord I am asking for daily help in controlling my tongue. I am asking for Holy Spirit intervention in my choosing deliberately to bless instead of curse.

I am deliberately choosing to love. LOVE. LOVE.
I want to be a good love-er.
amen

Servant

2010-12-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

FUN

2010-11-23T07:51:00.000-08:00

1. Go out and find some.
2. Allow yourself to fully embrace it.
3. Laugh till liquid snorts from your nose.
4. Begin again.

It's TOO EARLY

2010-11-11T18:34:00.000-08:00

Saw two Christmas trees tonight in one small area. People, it isn't even the middle of November. Let's leave something too look forward to in life.
Like next month.
I refuse to sing a note of a carol or even think of where the ugly plastic tree we bought for the apartment might be hiding. Let's all just hum tunes of thanksgiving and maybe even a little rock n roll and just chill for a while. Life's speeding by too fast as it is. Slow it down people, one holiday at a time.

Count It All Joy

2010-10-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

Still waiting on our circumstances to change. I recall not too long ago, two years or so, where I gave thanks on this blog ( for so many good things happening in my family's life and yet here I sit almost three years later, complaining about things that I am waiting on to change in our circumstances. It is hard because I want to be more mature than this. I want to be walking in "awareness" of His good and faithful provision, "Counting it all joy...". I am thankful for a group of women in my lifegroup who help keep me remembering how good of a God we serve. They listen to my woes, but remind me to keep my thoughts on things above. It is not all about me, or me and thee. It is about a mighty God who knows me and hears my cries and listens and answers. I love His answers. I may not see them, I may not feel them, but I believe them.

"Count it all joy, my brothers when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have it's full effect, that you may be perfect and complete lacking in nothing. "

While I am
James 1:2-4

Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus

2010-10-22T10:28:00.000-07:00

Thirty is just a number

2010-10-13T18:39:00.001-07:00

My middle-est is joining the ranks of women who have looked a number in the face and crossed over with strength, vigor and just the tiniest look back over their shoulder.
Enjoy the ride!

Ain't She Purty?

2010-10-08T13:53:00.001-07:00

my bff

Ilon Rain.

The Mind is a Mystery

2010-10-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

I am spending time with my mother while my dad is recovering from surgery. She is a delightful woman who lifts her hands and thanks God all the time. She also has Alzheimers Disease. My mother has no short term memory. She has not been able to remember new names and faces or current information since the disease took over her brain. Once in a very great while a new snippet of information will work it's way into her memory bank and she will be able to hold on to it, but not often.

She does not remember why I am here. Every few minutes she turns and looks at me and asks me where her David is. Then she asks if he is okay and if he will be home soon. I answer her and we move on and then she turns and asks again. I don't mind answering her, ever. Each time she asks it is as if she had never heard the answer. I do have alot of appreciation for my daddy who is the one who cares for her and answers her questions over and over each day, all day long. He probably needed this little break in the hospital.

We just took a walk around the facility where they live and she stops and points out the details in the artwork that is on the walls. "Look at that pretty flower. Someone painted everything that you see in that picture. Look, there are three flies in that painting." My momma used to be a painter. She loves to see the brush strokes and a flower with light on the petals. She has always had an eye for color and detail. Even as I type, she has just asked me again about her David. We are off to the hospital where she will sit in the chair by his bed and hold his hand and look sweetly at him and blow him kisses. Then she will ask him why he is there and when he gets to go home. She just told me that she "sure has missed him".

I miss my mother but I have heard so many horror stories from friends who have parents with Alzheimers who have lost all of their true self and kindness. I love that she has still got the love of Jesus smiling through those pretty blue eyes.

I am looking forward to talking to her again in Heaven one day. I have lots of questions stored up for her too.

You NEVER

2010-09-28T20:38:00.001-07:00

quit being a parent.

It's Friday!

2010-09-17T09:51:00.000-07:00

I am a weekend kind of gal. I am very thankful for my job, but begin looking forward to Friday on Sunday nights when I realize that once again, Monday is coming. I really don't like this about myself as it makes me feel like a "glass is half empty" type of personality and who wants to be that? A friend called today and prayed that God would reveal his loving kindness to me in a very special way this weekend. I value her prayer and will look forward to this blessing, but at the same time, I realize that His mercies are new every morning. I long to wake up on a Monday and be thrilled that it is Monday. So Lord, I am admitting in public that I am only half full when it comes to being thankful and rejoicing over each day. Change my heart and let me see the glass full to overflowing. amen.
and p.s.
God... Thankful it is Friday.

Looking ahead

2010-08-29T19:53:00.001-07:00

while sitting stillish. ish, not ill, because it is hard to be totally still, but it is easier to be stillish.
.............................................................................................................................................................................
Today I am thankful for a wonderful group of women that I spend time with on Sunday mornings, talking and praying about our lives as women, sisters, moms, daughters. Together we represent about 6 or 7 countries and I am definately one of the most freckled in the room. Love them. Still can't communicate very well with some, but LONGING for the day we can sit and chat without the language barriers. I will say, there is something about women and communication. We just do it. Might not get everything, but even if we don't understand everything, we understand what is important: families and faith and hope. Thanks God.

Memory vs Reality

2010-08-05T18:49:00.001-07:00

Ike did a number on one of my favorite childhood memories of staying at the Sandpiper Motel in Galveston Texas.
I wasn't sophisticated enough at the time to know the difference between Hotel and Motel, but i loved this place. Goodbye childhood memory, hello reality.

as a p.s., loved that Galveston is rebuilding and that families are still bringing their children to create their own great memories.

It's not about you

2010-07-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged because I couldn't. Really, I couldn't. I didn't have anything amusing or light or helpful or fascinating to say. I was so self consumed with my own thoughts and personal griefs, that I could barely talk to myself, let alone the three or four people who might read these words. I have been grieving my own life unlived while still grieving over my friends who went home earlier than expected. So I am putting my big girl panties on, calling on my friend and creator and asking Him to help me walk out intentional thankfulness. Come on life. let's get on with it. I am ready to be surprised by joy.

It's True

2010-01-22T09:37:00.001-08:00

I do get obsessive about searching for things online. It could be a purse (as you will remember from last year) or a dog (oh wouldn't that be awesome???!!!) or as is going on now, a HOUSE HUNT. We are most likely selling our fun lakehouse (economy woes dictates this hard decision) and buying a house again in Dallas. I know that in the news, Dallas is one of the best places to buy as there is alot of inventory and great prices...but not in the categories I am searching for. I have good taste, what can I say? I have found that there are alot of people like me that do not want to live in a giant brick box (though we can find many of those at great prices) but want instead to live in a house that stirs the emotions because of the architecture, the age, the details and a neighborhood that evokes charm out the wazoo. I am girded for this search. I have on my reality glasses and my dreamer glasses. I have a budget and I have a dream. I asked God to prepare just the right place for us. Can't wait to see what this place looks like and have a strong feeling it might not be about my dream, but about location. So, while I wait...I search on.

My

2010-01-07T19:10:00.001-08:00

Addictions

2010-01-04T15:04:00.000-08:00

Before this past year, I would have told you that I loved eating chocolate, but didn't really have any addictions.....my co-workers and family would howl at that statement. Heh heh. I apparently have a strong need for iced tea from Sonic especially at HAPPY HOUR. ( I mean really, it is HAPPY HOUR, who wouldn't want to be there) Maybe it is just a bit stronger than "strong need". Maybe i really really really love it and have to have it. I love the ice. That is all though. No other addictions. Except...well...

Okay, i admit that over the past year I did get a bit addicted to watching NCIS, a television show about Navy crimes. I never watched the original shows, but began watching the reruns in the afternoon after work. I am sitting here watching it now even as I type, but no big deal I can quit any time I want.

So, I am just being real here in the new year and thinking about whether these are issues that need to be dealt with or if they are no big deal in the big picture of addictions. I don't smoke, I don't chew and I don't hang with those that ... oops, I do hang with a few people that do actually. But I haven't inhaled.

So this year I am not going to talk about my new year resolutions, but talk about what needs to go. I am seriously thinking about giving up NCIS. (after this show of course and it doesn't have anything to do with the fact that I have probably seen them all now two or three times), but I have NO plans to give up my Sonic iced tea. I do have a few other things that need to go, but we won't get into my curvy figure. Not for now.

Alamosa Christmas

2009-12-30T10:42:00.000-08:00

Over the holidays we spent many hours in the car, one driving over Lavita Pass in blinding snow, and many others looking out the window at the huge overcast skies of north Texas, New Mexico and Colorado. We had a bit of a disappointment in having a non white Christmas, while back in Texas they enjoyed an unusual snowy one. BUT, we made it to Alamosa and had a wonderful time with our family. There was ice skating, lot's of good food, deer in the yard, bowling (I am really really good :) and even some charades! What was most fun, was just hanging out with everyone and watching the children be their usual cute selves. Thankful to be home safe and looking forward to the next time we all get to be together. Family is pretty awesome, even the messy parts.
ps. did i mention that my daugher Katherine loves to take photos? The only family photos now have cats included. Many cats.

It's the Holiday Season

2009-12-22T10:04:00.000-08:00

Coughing and hacking my way into this beautiful time of year brought a new perspective on priorities. Being sick for almost a month left me without the usual prep time for Christmas cards, gift buying, packaging and mailing. After the usual freak out feelings of guilt and anxiety for not getting everything done and on time, I just let it all go. Really. Gone. If I can bring some New Year holiday cheer to some family and friends later, well, that will be fun, but if it doesn't work out, they will still love me. (yes you will) So I am thanking God for this peace over not being the perfect friend and co-worker and extended family member. This one day or few weeks does not define me. And,though it is fun to share and bless people and use pretty wrapping paper, I am able to move on and get to the more important, the priority of priorities... a few days with my family, coughing and hacking all the way.
Jesus really is the reason for the season.
Merry Christmas!

My Christmas Wish

2009-12-11T09:05:00.000-08:00

Please sing along....

A......

New job for Deanie

Yellow lab for Julie

house built in the twenties

and the grandkids sitting in our laps.

Mountain Momma

2009-12-04T10:34:00.001-08:00

My daughter Izzie is one strong pack mule of a woman.

I want to be more like her when I grow up.

Enjoying New Life

2009-11-30T10:43:00.000-08:00

I was honored to be able to go to Seattle last month to spend some time with Mollie, Kendall and new baby Finnegan.

We were also blessed with another new baby in the family, my nephew's son, Finn Fry (he is in the hat).

Double the trouble, double the fun, Finnegan, Finnegan, Finnegan Fun.

The Servant

2009-11-17T08:49:00.000-08:00

I want to be a servant

Even if it hurts

With all my prayers so fervent

When the pain gets worse

I want to say to this mountain

Away with you to the sea

Because this has been a long climb

But I still believe

Chorus:

But when I go meet Jesus

He'll know it's me

His good and faithful servant

And I'll be lifted from my knees

It's nice to see you Jesus

I have finally seen

The good and faithful servant

Who gave his life for me

I'll be home; I am home

(this song was written by Tyler Hook for his friend Chris Olson who went home to be with Jesus

November 12, 2009)

Can you imagine?

2009-11-12T11:45:00.000-08:00

I love to just sit and think about heaven. Do you remember the movie that Robin Williams was in about heaven and dying? I really didn't like the movie, but there were scenes of the colors of the plants and flowers being so lush and deep and real that the colors blended when someone walked through them. Those scenes inspired me to think about what I can't even imagine. The reality of a perfect unspoiled place. Heaven. Can you imagine that there will be colors that have never been seen by human eyes? The brilliance and delight of crystal clear waters? Just light itself. Never imagined light.
Well, my sweet friend Chris knows this now. He is seeing it and loving it! Thankful for his short life on earth and now imagining him sitting with the apostles talking about Nick's game on Saturday against UT. He is in Heaven!
Wouldn't today would be a wonderful day for the Lord to come?

Praying for life at Medical City

2009-11-05T07:25:00.000-08:00

Our good friend, Chris Olson is dying. That is what the doctors say. He is 20 years old, has leukemia and they have done all that they can do medically. There is no other treatment. Now he is at Medical City Hospital with pneumonia and not expected to live much longer. So...the body of Christ at Lake Highlands Church decided to go to battle. We have been gathering at the hospital each night to glorify God and ask him to heal Chris. Then, because we were there, we began to meet other patients on his floor, young children who are diagnosed with incurable diseases. Their parents long to have hope and have been thankful that we are including their children in our prayers and fight.

Lord, you can do this. We can ask this in confidence that you are able. Come Lord. Heal Chris. Heal Cohen, Michael, Issac, Anthony, Cutler, Joseph and the many others. We won't stop asking Lord. You are mighty. You are Holy. You are their strong right hand. This is war!

Chris is not a saint. He is just a regular awesome young man of God who believes that no matter what happens, he lives.

http://chrisolson20.blogspot.com/

Pray.

What have I been doing the past month?

2009-10-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

Well, thanks for asking...

Went to my nieces's wedding in Boerne, Texas.

Congrats Tabitha and Brock!

Stayed at a beautiful resort thanks to Jaime and Amy. There were goats! Got to see both of my sisters, Diana and Amy and their husbands. Met Amy's grandson, Wyatt, the cute son of the bride and groom.

stay tuned, there is more...

Thirty three years ago...pretty in pink

2009-09-24T10:53:00.001-07:00

I was a bridesmaid in my friend Paula's wedding.

Did I mention that this was 33 years ago? It would explain alot of things in the photo (we don't need to get into wrinkles and flab)
Congrats to Paula and Ralph for keeping the love alive!

Mermaids and boats "Oh My"

2009-09-13T11:57:00.000-07:00

Mere in the hammock, Clint in the chips...

Family gathering for a fast labor day splash...

and a baby boy on a boat.

It was alot of fun and went too fast.

It was fun to spend time with a mermaid and a snuggly little boy smurf.

Okay, I am just a bit excited....and I'm not alone

2009-09-03T17:03:00.000-07:00

It amazes me that these two tiny people could bring such eager anticipation, multiple conversations, staring and restaring at old photos, and a flurry of shopping for the perfect princess sleeping bag. Come on down family and let's get the squeezin started!

Keekball

2009-08-23T17:35:00.000-07:00

Today I gave one for the team, allowing two of my kickball team mates to score, by doing a faceplant in the dirt and distracting the first baseman. It was a good move and would have been even more awesome if I had actually planned it. Too bad there was no camera.

JOY

2009-08-11T17:22:00.000-07:00

Bumper Stickers and Yadda

2009-08-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

I don't got nothin.
(but we did take a box of change to the coin machine and turned it into $80! )

My first Danish - American Wedding

2009-07-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

I know a few men who have a firm belief that wedding ceremonies should not last longer than 20 minutes and who would be really uncomfortable with some of the weddings in our body at LHC that last an hour or more with lots of praise and worship as part of the ceremony. Well, they would have really been out of their comfort zone this past weekend at the wedding I attended. Martin -Danish and Lynsey -American got married in Durango Colorado.

Danes love weddings!

They enjoy getting together for days and spending alot of time together before and after as part of the celebration. The wedding ceremony itself (Donny Martin preaches a great mountain wedding service!) was not overly long, about 30 minutes or so and we had the usual visiting and snacking while photos were being taken for another 30-40 minutes. THEN the fun began. The Danish custom (or so I am led to believe) is to have many toasts, skits, photos, sharing, eating, drinking, sharing, toasting, skits, photos, toasts, eating... you are getting the idea. The ceremony began at 3pm and when we finally left at midnight, the dancing had just begun and I am sad to say, the cake still had not been cut. (that could be a whole blog in itself... I do love me some wedding cake) Children ran playing outside, roaming and enjoying the freedom of grownups being occupied, cats carried in rats, the DJ slept on his equipment while waiting, and many words were spoken full of laughter and tears. The event was intended to be experienced as a whole, not in parts. A true celebration of life. Reminded me of what it might have been like when Jesus went to the wedding in Cana in Galilee. I could see the same experiences of people sharing and laughing late into the night and then finding they had run out of wine, Mary went to Jesus...

The Americans were of course uncomfortable with the length, the lack of someone keeping everything running smoothly and of course, they all wanted to eat cake and go home! But, after you had sat and visited and eaten and had a bit to drink and let the time issues go, it became an experience, not just an event. I think we could use a bit more of this in our own American lives, let loose a bit on our controlling natures and live a little. Have us some fun and stay up late.

(then we wouldn't miss out on the cake!)

Sometimes

2009-07-22T19:21:00.000-07:00

you just have to focus in on what is important...

The Uss Constitution (or Dean's choice)

2009-07-10T20:51:00.000-07:00

On our trip to Boston last month we made a visit to see The USS Constitution, which is a wooden-hulled, three-masted heavy frigate of the United States Navy. Named after the Constitution of the United States of America by President George Washington, she is the oldest commissioned naval vessel afloat in the world.

The Uss Constitution which is nicknamed "Old Ironside" because ...well, I know because I took the tour, but if you don't know I am going to make you look it up because it is good for you and I am tired of googling.

Katie and Dean in line.

It was a pretty interesting tour which I probably wouldn't have taken on my own volition, but since I am married to Dean Dawson and this was his choice of activity on the trip, well, off we went.

We did wonder as we stood on the boat listening to the young men and woman who are on active duty in our nation's navy, giving the history of the boat and it's battles, what it actually means to be given this assignment. Is it a "plush" assignment? Is it punishment? They must get tired of telling the same story over and over and over again. I mean really, they could be on a huge ship following other huge ships around North Korea wondering if they were carrying bombs. So.. I googled and looked it up.

thus...

The Constitution's mission today is to promote understanding of the Navy’s role in war and peace through educational outreach, historic demonstration, and active participation in public events. As a fully commissioned US Navy ship, her crew of 60 officers and sailors participate in ceremonies, educational programs and special events while keeping the ship open to visitors year-round and providing free tours. The officers and crew are all active-duty US Navy personnel and the assignment is considered special duty in the Navy.

So, still a bit confused what "Special Duty" means. I mean really, would you want to wear the poochy panted uniform?

Need An Answer?

2009-06-28T18:16:00.000-07:00

Wandering around Harvard Square in Cambridge last weekend and found this kiosk. There were instructions to fill out a card with your question and tack it up on the wall of the kiosk and then check back in a few days for "the answer" on their website.
Wonder what big question Katherine was posting?

I am a bit worried about Pete's pony. Hope it made it home safe.

Boston Baby!

2009-06-23T18:29:00.000-07:00

Dean and I went to Boston to celebrate our daughter's birthday and father's day. A short, wonderful trip with Katherine. Isn't she pretty? We ate wonderful food and did some touristy sightseeing. Keep checking back for more tidbits.

Taken and more...

2009-06-13T18:31:00.000-07:00

Alert: ooh, if you are a young woman wanting to travel to other countries alone or with a friend, be sure and watch the movie "Taken." It will scare the poop out of you, and it should.

Lakehouse: pump not working, leak under the house (possibly fixed, watching it) yard mowed except the part where the large tree limbs fell down, tree limbs down needing to be cut and burned, bathroom remodel still needs light fixture rehung, mirror rehung, paint touched up, door painted, exterior windows need washing, spiders need killing, and so much more.

Dean: sitting in recliner shirtless reading a book on wiring, trying to figure out how to rewire our pump which is not working, but fresh and clean from a nice shower.

Beer: getting cold in the freezer.

Life: still good.

Key Master

2009-06-09T12:43:00.000-07:00

So, who was one of the most famous "key Masters" from a 1989 film? And why would I bring it up? Well, lying on my desk are hundreds of miscellaneous keys that were found in a storage shed here at Lake Highlands Church. I was assigned the "task" of figuring out if any of the unmarked keys were still usable. Take a moment... picture me looking up at the person asking me to do this task... yep... I was not smiling. "sure, I will carry a bag of old dirty keys around the building and look for any possible opening that a key might fit into and try each of the hundreds of keys in the slot" she said with enthusiasm not. I am telling you, this was so not in my job description.

And, if you have lost any keys. Too late. I am secretly throwing keys away one by one. Pile is getting smaller :)

So, did you answer correctly?? Yes. The Key Master of all times, is... John Cusack from his famous role as Lloyd Dobler in "Say Anything. "

You were quite the guy Lloyd.

Well gotta go. I have key holes to explore. See you in a few years.

Jazz Under the Stars

2009-06-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

We had a great night at Jazz under the Stars with our friends Dean and Dawn. The weather was great and the band was really fun. Only in Texas would you have a large group of people line dancing to jazz. It's fun to take a picnic, wine, friends and sit back and enjoy. Good times.

Some Glad Holiday

2009-05-25T16:51:00.000-07:00

Birthday shout outs!

Kim Roepke! Enjoy the day Aaron's mom!

Dennis - You are my friend4ever. "h40bd."

Now I hope all you people out there had a real nice Memorial Day HOliday weekend. (note the way I gave HOliday a little sumpin to make it stand out..)

We enjoyed making new friends with lake neighbors Gary and Karen, hanging out with Mere and Clint (see pic above, thanks for the fishing lesson Clint!) and going to a neighborhood send off for a Lt. Colonel who will be going to Germany for two years. We have a really eclectic group of neighbors out at the lake. Some obviously used to the bruncheon cocktail hours and talk about golf and such, and others who have worked with their hands and backs all their lives who like to talk about fishin' and huntin'. But today I discovered a very common theme between all of them. They hate snakes and feel that they should be shot on sight, they hate it when the storm brings waves that steal their dirt from under their retaining walls, and they all seem to know who owns the biggest boats on the lake. We can always find commonality somehow. Dean (the cute one in the hammock) and I have alot to learn and I need to buy me a gun.

The Bluffs

2009-05-14T18:10:00.000-07:00

Shiner has made himself at home...

pillows and pottery

welcome pig

Dean loves a patio

Just a few photos of our new little place...

Things I Like

2009-05-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

1. The color turqoise...oh yes, just like the color of my favorite pottery bowl that disappeared in our move TWO BLOCKS AWAY
2. Dogs, more specifically a dog of my own.. yellow lab come to mama
3. Dark chocolate with almonds
4. Pink cookies (hard to find, but when you do... (sugar high)
5. Going to Central Market with Dean for a drink or a snack or maybe even groceries
6. The Flying Fish at Preston Center... first booth on the left
7. A large unsweetened iced tea from Sonic... oh yeah, sonic ice is good and only $1 from 2-4pm
8. A really good book that is a series so you can look forward to more
9. Turqoise earrings (like the sweet ones Angie bought me but I only got to wear once and I am not pointing any fingers MJD)
10. T shirts from Old Navy... they are so soft and great to sleep in
ok.. i am totally bored with myself and my stuff.. if you are too, then go check out thepioneerwoman.com she is not boring.

Life since grandkids moved away

2009-05-04T12:28:00.000-07:00

Stay Tuned

2009-04-22T10:53:00.000-07:00

Yea! Katie's coming home tomorrow for a few days to see the Roepkes before the move next week. (oops, she has bangs now.. sorry Katie, send new photo with bangs)

We are going to the zoo on Saturday and celebrating Aaron's 29th birthday with a steak dinner, having a send off for them at church on Sunday and packing up and moving. woohoo. lots going on. Stay tuned for all the fun details and photos to come.

no tears in heaven...

Random

2009-04-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

Praise leader at our church, David Chrane keeps his hair shaved short. His three year old son worries about harmful rays burning his dad's head and finds random items to cover his head such as leaves or the latest, sweet and low packets. He took 30 or so and covered his dad's head and after standing back and taking a look, he said, "it looks good dad, lead praise this way.

My granddaughter Ilon Rain Roepke, my BFF, likes to be "tittled" when she is going down for a nap.

I bought Izzie a loaf pan for $4.95 and she said, "no way! Sweet!"

Gonna have to find a way to make moving to our new "boring off -white apartment" (a smaller version of our current "boring off-white apartment"),more fun. Suggestions welcome within reason. (Neither of us want to paint said boring walls as we will have to repaint in 11 months.) Maybe some new art work like "La La Love You"?

People from my last high school have looked me up on Face Book and asked to be my friend. "don't make me hit my friend!" what movie???? anyhoo... I am old. Don't remember much from high school. Thought I would always remember everything. I was wrong. Hope I was nice to people. Hope I told them about Jesus.

http://www.alumniclass.com/greenmountain

I do remember some people and like that they have checked in with me after so many years. Good friends, Mike C., Jerry Y sent notes I and hope to get in touch with a few other friends that made an impact on my short time there.

Praying for my sweet D and G who are now waiting on the Lord for direction and wisdom as they meet a new crossroad in life. God is GOOD and thankful he knows exactly where you are and where you need to be. Can't wait to hear the plan.

Okay... random thoughts on a non random day.

"This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Later peeps.

"It's Moving Time"

2009-04-03T10:14:00.000-07:00

First, go re-watch one of my favorite You Tube videos from Flight of the Concordes, "It's Business Time." http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGOohBytKTU

Then, kind of sing while you re-read the title of this blog.... and chuckle while you think "what does this have to do with anything?" Well, we are moving again and I just wanted to make the announcement a bit more fun as the move itself is not. Just moving down the street to "The Bluffs". Sounds kind of exotic and beautiful in a desert kind of way doesn't it? (but they aren't) This is the year of "SAVING MONEY" so that we can go travel to see our family that is far away and continue remodeling the lakehouse. A year of practical living and fun times. Thankful to have a decision made and that we don't have to move ourselves. "We're movin on up..." (if you are my age, you are singing.."to the east side")

Busier Than Usual

2009-03-22T15:09:00.000-07:00

I have a great job. That is a given. There are times though, when we have an event or projects or people out for some reason or another and it makes the job a bit more complicated. Well, we had a major event, several special projects, my supervisor out of the office for two months, and our building maintenance person in the hospital for three weeks.... and things were definitely more complicated these past few weeks. One of the highlights was having the author of The Shack, W. Paul Young come to LHC to speak. He was a blessing to so many and a genuinely nice guy. The event itself was a job. So many people wanted to come hear him speak and so many people wanted to get cds of his speaking. Lots to do.

If you haven't gotten a chance to check out this book, do. It will get you to thinking. Check out the links:
TheShackBook.com www.theshackbook.com

So, a new week begins with my supervisor coming back full time, water heater on the baptistry replaced, most of the cds mailed out and directory printed! Should be a little more relaxed at work for awhile. Still have to deal with Yagba's wallet being stolen during the weekend conference...but hopefully God is already on that. Stay tuned.

On The Road Again

2009-03-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

Go ahead... start humming along to Willy Nelson while I type. Very fitting as I am headed home after a trip to west Texas today. Went to Abilene to move my folks back to their apartment now that my dad is doing well in his recovery from surgery. They were so glad to be home. Made a stop this morning in my birthplace, the all exciting, Eastland, Texas. Love that the Sonic has Wi-Fi and that there is now a Starbucks next to the Dairy Queen. Gotta love the progress. Actually, for my family, this town has it all:). Anyhoo.... thought you might like to see a little stock photo of this small town where I was born and lived for four years I think. Life there has obviously continued on and so have I. Now I am looking forward to being home. It's fun to be able to have the aircard and use the internet while we travel, and stop for a nice cup of expensive coffee along the way!

Updates

2009-02-19T18:00:00.000-08:00

update on my dressing better: depends on the day, but do note the pointy shoes on my feet. and if you could just see my dark wash jeans....

and an update on my father's hip replacement surgery: He is doing well, going through physical therapy and dealing with the food at the nursing facility...sorry dad. YOU CAN DO IT! (he has trouble hearing :) Hi mom. She is cute.

The Hokey Pokey

2009-02-09T10:55:00.001-08:00

Well, my father had his hip replacement surgery today and so far all has gone well. The doctor said it was "a yucky mess". Hopefully you can understand the doctor's terminology, with all of his big words.
So do any of you recall this drawing from an earlier post?? This is an example of what my dad's new hip looks like, just like my Dean's.

This weekend we were able to take a couple of longer walks and I was so thankful for Dean's new hip and I am so thankful for my dad's too. He has been in more pain than anyone should have to endure. Hopefully this will give him a new lease on life, as they say. (No, I don't know who "they" are) A new way for him to walk and get himself turned around. Take care.

Weather or Not

2009-01-30T10:04:00.000-08:00

Ice or sun? Well, we live in Dallas, so it could be either. So after a cold, wet and icy few days, we are now back to our normal winter weather in the 60's - 80's. I grew up thinking this only happened in California and Arizona. And if you watched the news last night you learned that all that Al Gore global warming has been the biggest hoax in our history, so we can't blame it on that. I have no idea why our weather is so oddish these past few years, but I am learning to like it warmer rather than colder. And that makes me feel old. I don't want to be one of those old people who hate the snow and never want to be where it's cold. I know it is what we are becoming accustomed to, but I would rather enjoy all the seasons, not just cool and hot with just enough cold to be really annoying.

Are there four seasons anywhere anymore?

Some Days...

2009-01-23T10:12:00.000-08:00

Alot of what I write about in this blog is fluff. Just words and silliness. But in my job as secretary at a church, I never know whether my day will be simple or full, light or heavy. This week has been full of heavy. I never know who God will send in my doorway and how He wants me to respond until it happens. Yesterday I spent most of my work day with a young man who doesn't think his life has any purpose and that he should never have been born. If you knew even part of his story, you might agree with him. So, I am being used as a friend and confidant of someone who talks about ending his life each time we speak. To me this is where the rubber meets the road in faith. If there is no God, why not end it. If there is a God, then there is Jesus. If there is Jesus, then there is hope. Can't see him. Can't touch him. You just have to choose to believe. I have chosen. I am choosing to hope for this young man while he can't. I am believing for him. This is big stuff. life and death. If you are reading this and you don't know Jesus, well, I am believing for you too. Take a chance. Ask God to reveal himself to you. Call me. Let's talk about life and death and hope. I choose hope.

Romans 15:13 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Questions

2009-01-16T19:15:00.000-08:00

Why do birds suddenly appear everytime you are near?

How do you spell maresee dotes and dosee dotes?

Why doesn't Tom Cruise ever break any bones in those Mission Impossible movies?

Why do baby boys have to be circumcised? Sorry Gabriel.

okay, really there is no way Tom could go through all that and not have a single broken bone.

wow. that was a really good move that Tom just did with Philip Seymour...with the truck. bye bye Philip.

Birthday Fun

2009-01-09T07:58:00.000-08:00

I asked for a "real" handbag for my birthday. By real, I mean LEATHER, not faux leather. I wanted to pick out a purse without worrying about the price. Found the one I wanted at Macy's and then bought it online for half the price. Loved that! (Yeah, I couldn't stop myself from worrying about the price) Thanks Dean for letting me splurge. I love it!

It's A New Year!

2009-01-02T10:40:00.000-08:00

I have made a new year's resolution, which I usually do not. It is pretty deep, so be prepared.

I am resolving to ....dress better. wooh! so glad I got that out there. Now I can't go back. And you will be able to see if I have kept my resolution. My goal is fewer t shirts, jeans and sweaters and more what? I have no idea. Even typing this I am thinking that t shirts, jeans and sweaters are fabulous, why wouldn't I wear them all the time? I guess I am resolving to have other options in my closet. To be able to choose between more than two pair of shoes. (both casual) I was raised to dress nicely and for the occasion, but somewhere along the way, I just got lazy. So, hopefully you will see me more appropriately dressed for the occasion in 2009. For example ... I could wear this look to the grocery store or to the doctor. understated and simple... just like me :)

Hark the Herald Angel Came

2008-12-31T11:53:00.001-08:00

WELCOME to our family little Gabriel Sky Roepke. We are happy to meet you!

And to my readers... May God bless you richly in this new year with His joy and peace. Seek more of Him. He is an awesome God!

It's all about Katherine

2008-12-22T10:35:00.000-08:00

My oldest daughter who goes by many names...Katherine, Katie, Kat (and never reads my blog) was sent a link to it by a co-worker... not sure why, and finally went to check it out and noticed she wasn't highlighted, but her sister had been. Well... sometimes you get what you ask for!

So, here in living color, you can enjoy the many faces of Katherine Anne Dawson!

Merry Christmas to us a little early

2008-12-19T19:55:00.000-08:00

Gabriel Sky Roepke decided to come a little early into the world, sleepy and breathing a bit too fast. I am sure there will be many more photos coming, but let's just take in the little man that we have waited on so eagerly. A Man child! Momma is fine, but baby had to take a detour after his calm, natural water birth to high tech hospital monitoring until his breathing get's settled. Pray for this baby and his parents as they wait on him being able to come home.

Do You Know Anthony?

2008-12-17T13:33:00.000-08:00

Please meet Anthony. He is a friend and co worker of my daughter. He happened to check out my blog (man, he so needs to get a life) and sent the link to my daughter who never reads it. (uh, rude) So, I would like to honor him today. Here's to You Anthony someone. Hope you have a fabulous day!

Congratulations #2!

2008-12-12T08:25:00.001-08:00

My daughter, Rebecca Elizabeth "Izzie" Roepke, just graduated from nursing school! She is also expecting her second child in the next few weeks. She has accomplished so much this semester and we are so proud of her. Way to go Iz!

Congratulations!

2008-12-05T09:42:00.001-08:00

My daughter in the Lord, Mollie Guillemette, has graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Way to go Mollie! We are so proud of you.

The In-between Time

2008-12-05T09:25:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving and Christmas should be farther apart. I have always felt like this, but no one has listened to me. I need more time in-between. Things I need to do before Christmas:
1. Go to physical therapy.
2. Find a wonderful gift for Dean.
3. Clean my apartment for guests coming.
4. Prepare emotionally for a new baby coming which will change the family dynamics.
5. Find wonderful stocking gifts that will cause my family to cry out with joy. (I have issues)
6. Clean my lakehouse for guests coming.
7. Put up tiny tree at apartment.
8. Put up real tree at lakehouse.
9. Celebrate 2 daughters graduating from school.
9. Go see my parents in Abilene.
10. And much more, but this is getting a bit boring and all about me...

So, Thank you God that I have the opportunity to go to physical therapy, buy a gift for a great man, have an apartment to clean, have a new baby coming, have kids who want to be together for the holidays, have a lakehouse to clean, have two daughters coming to visit and two daughters who are thrilled to be graduating from school after lots of hard work, have a tiny tree and a real tree to put up with fun stuff to decorate, and most of all, that I have two sweet parents who love me and are happy when we get to visit. amen.

East Texas Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T08:00:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful time at the lake for Thanksgiving. The leaves were so pretty, it looked like we were on the East Coast. Thank you to Aaron for cooking the turkey. He wanted to learn how (and I was excited to let him) and he did a great job. Thank you to Meredith for making me a chocolate pie (her first meringue) which was delicious. We got to sit around the fire pit and enjoy the cold weather and then it was so pretty on Thursday we were able to eat outside. Thanks to Izzie and Meredith who spent the day decorating the deck and yard for the holidays. We are going to have a wonderful season.

Looking for a way to be more "green" this Christmas?

2008-11-21T10:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving all! I will post Thanksgiving at the lake photos next week. Man, I have so much to be thankful for. I am going to start with being thankful for the pie that Meredith is going to make me!

Got Pie on my Mind

2008-11-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

Would someone puleeze make me a chocolate meringue pie like my momma used to make? Yes, I want the whole pie. Yes, I want it to have those little beads of syrup after you put it in the fridge for awhile. Yes, cook it till the tips of the meringue are medium brown. hmmm... oh, and hurry.

Just for Fun

2008-11-07T09:11:00.001-08:00

Thankful it has been a bit cooler the past few days. I am ready for fall and fires and even socks! Since I got me "the menopause" I have been looking forward to being "cooler"!

Planning Ahead

2008-11-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

My daughter, Izzie and her husband Aaron are expecting their second child in about 8 weeks. They went to their birthing class today and came home with new instructions for me, the appointed caretaker of Ilon, their daughter, when Izzie goes into labor and the appointed food bringer. Apparently, they were instructed by the new midwife to leave me a list of what to bring them to eat after the birth. I don't know if I can handle all the stress of taking care of Ilon and waiting on the new baby and picking up the correct food depending on the time of day the new baby decides to come. :) Thankfully I won't be the only one involved. We are all getting used to the idea of this new baby coming soon. It has taken awhile to really believe it is happening. We have enjoyed having Ilon so much and it will be an adjustment for all of us with the new baby, whom Ilon has named "Roger". And she wants a sister. Go figure.
So let's get into the serious matter at hand. What will they really name this child? I am still hoping for Georgia after my grandmother. She was one awesome lady and her name needs to be carried on. Not sure about Ilon's choice, Roger Roepke.....too many rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrs.
over and out.

Miscellaneous

2008-10-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

Just read a book that I loved by Robin Jones Gunn, Gardenia's for Breakfast. A book about mothers and daughters and how God loves us through each other.

Two months till our next little baby comes into the family. A bit nervous about how our number one and only grandaughter will respond. She has been the center of the world now for two years. Can't wait to meet this new little person. (have had two dreams that it is a girl)

Went to the Orthopedist today and have to go start physical therapy as my "range of motion" is not quite where he would like it to be. Hope it isn't painful. I already have plenty.

Thankful for Aaron today. He is my son-in-law, a brother in the Lord and a co-worker! He is a great daddy and husband and is always up for family time. That is pretty awesome!

Days of Yore

2008-10-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

Man, has anyone else noticed that life is flying by? I used to be so young and bouncy and now...well... you saw the hand. I obviously didn't bounce very well that day. There is an old photo of me in my parent's stash where I am probably around 8 or 9. I am very thin, very stick leggy, with lots of freckles and long red pigtails swinging. You can tell in the photo that I am in motion and just jumpy with joy. I can still see this photo so clearly in my mind. I love it because it is what I long to feel like, full of energy and joy. So, Lord, it is up to you. I am ready to have energy, bounce and joy.

There Goes My Dream of Being a Hand Model

2008-10-10T10:19:00.001-07:00

Watch Out Grackels!

2008-10-05T21:02:00.000-07:00

We had a great trip to Taos and a side trip to Colorado.
This is a tiny view of Casa Courtney, our little house in the desert, that was covered with purple and yellow sage. We spent our anniversary in Pagosa Springs Colorado at the Hot Springs Resort. After a great dinner overlooking the river, we went to the springs for an evening soak in the pools. Got up early and dipped again and enjoyed the relaxing waters and the views.

Stopped for a picnic on the way back to Taos at a small lake in a state park. So pretty and there is nothing like home made bread,fruit, salami and cheese in the mountains. (really pretty much any food is good in this setting) More than once I heard the phrase "Look at that color!" It was definately one of the prettiest fall seasons we have gotten to experience. If leaves can change into these glorious colors now, can you imagine what the seasons will be like in heaven?
Our last night was spent at one of our favorite places in Taos, The Blinking Light. (yes, there really is a light that blinks) We enjoyed our first night of cooler weather and ate out on the patio by the fireplace. Very delicious and fun to eat wrapped up in Indian blankets. Thanks Laurene! Thanks Don and Gay for sharing the wonderful trip. Don your the man at driving and seeing wildlife at the same time. Gay, I loved the Mountain Bluebirds and your home was definately a 5 star place to stay. (except maybe for the lady out back shooting Grackels)

The Time Has Come!!

2008-09-26T07:34:00.000-07:00

After three years, Dean and I are actually going on a real bonafide vacation!

I will still be in my lovely purple cast, but ready and able to enjoy the delightful destination of Taos, New Mexico. Our good friends, Donna and Zack are loaning us their lovely Taos House, Casa Courtney, and we are eager for temperatures that should be 40's in the evenings and 70's in the day. We are delighted to once again have my brother and wife joining us on our adventure. We have made this trip with them a few times before and love the traditions we have in traveling together, such as margaritas in the hot tub, picnicking by a mountain stream, eating at the Apple Tree, walking through the many art galleries (my personal favorite) and shopping (looking) in the plaza.

We also drive to Pagosa Springs Colorado and stay at the resort there: http://pagosahotsprings.com/pools/pools.htm for a night.

The doctor told me I should soak my hand and that a hot tub would be great for it....so I am following doctor's orders!

So Thankful for this opportunity to celebrate my 30th anniversary in such a beautiful place. God, you are awesome!

Life Goes On

2008-09-19T11:43:00.001-07:00

I am still in a wait and heal season, but seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. One cast off of my right hand and three more weeks on the left. I have permission to try and drive and hoping to be off of pain meds soon. Since my life is fairly boring at this time, I thought I would share a photo of the family having fun at the lake before I fell off the boat.

Patience is a Virtue

2008-09-09T10:52:00.000-07:00

Learning to be patient with my circumstances. Fell off of a boat and met the concrete resulting in a broken wrist on one hand and a broken thmb on the other. This has left me at the mercy of others. My husband has been Jesus to me in many many ways...just imagine all the things you can't do without using your hands and you will understand. Thanks to everone who has blessed us with calls, food and friendship. Hope to post with more fun news soon. this too shall pass.

oops

2008-08-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

fell down and broke my crown. typing is a bit difficult and really can't do caps.

ooh and oh yeah

2008-08-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

Totally got busy last week and didn't get to blog at my normal time. Now that our bi-annual church directory is printed, all my thoughts are toward our First Annual Forced Family Fun Hatch Green Chili Cookoff this coming weekend. There will be around 16 people coming to our 850 square foot lake house and there is rain in the forcast! Going to have to start making "what if" plans. Dean has been busy practicing his recipe and I have been his taster. (sad as I don't like green chilis) I will be competing of course. There might be a good prize. I am in charge of bringing said prizes and will surely bring something I would love to win! Looking forward to Katie coming for the weekend. Yea firstborn child is coming home for a visit! And, our first baby girl just turned two and we had a wonderful time celebrating her birthday. We are enjoying her new vocabulary skills and learning to put words together. Her parents taught her to pray over the food at meals.

"Jee-sus, Thanks. Aaamen!" She is delightful and loves her Elmo panties!

Song of Songs

2008-08-08T08:04:00.000-07:00

I was at a conference four nights this week taught by Gary Weins on the extravagant love God has for YOU (and me) from the Song of Songs. One of the favorite quotes I heard, "Don't make sandwiches God didn't order." Man, it is good to be taught and reminded and encouraged and exhorted to imagine how much God loves us, his bride. Calling us, wooing us, delighting in us. Pretty awesome. A friend just bought me thebook, Bridal Intercession by Gary Wiens
("Bridal Intercession: Authority in Prayer Through Intimacy with Jesus" is a book for such a time as this, approaching the topic of intercessory prayer from the perspective of the Church's place as the Bride of Christ. Through exploring the Biblical paradigm of God's relationship as the Husband of His people, Gary Wiens draws his readers into an understanding of intimacy with Jesus as the foundation of effective prayer.) I am looking forward to reading it soon.
May God open our eyes to see, ears to hear and our hearts to his calling us to live our lives in extravagant worship of Jesus.

T shirts

2008-08-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

Doesn't this shirt look like it needs some color and a cool phrase and artwork?

We are planning a Chili Cookoff at our lakehouse this summer and decided to have some t- shirts made for part of the hoopla. Found a website where you can design your own shirts and have had alot of fun deciding on the perfect design for our event. Try it out!

But beware...it can draw you into it's web of fun and you will lose track of time. You can design your own, or use their ideas, like the shirt that says "I poke monkies". We all need one of those.

CustomInk.com

I created my own churchlady shirt! Check it out. return to your design: churchlady

BURN

2008-07-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

I was able to attend a BURN event last night in Dallas. It is a ministry of people who love the Lord passionately and want to make room for Him to come. They want our cities and nations to be transformed by God. They offer 24/48/52 hour prayer and worship sessions all over the world. People praying and praising and calling for more of God. http://theburn247.com/dfw/updates/ and click on listen to Burn Radio...good worship music to listen to while you are working or in your quiet times. They are headquartered in Dallas and I am hoping to attend another event soon. Really encouraging to be around brothers and sisters in the Lord who want more of HIM. It excites me. It opens me up to new vision and hope in God. We can all use that. Check it out.

Need Something to Do?

2008-07-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

Every once in awhile I end up with some free time on my hands and have found a couple of sites that I enjoy for different reasons. Try them out and see what you think...
For my brain and memory: http://www.freerice.com/index.php
where you can give rice to help feed the hungry while working on your vocabulary!
For my creative side: http://www.miniusa.com/#/build/paintShop-m
Go to the Mini Cooper web site and you can not only build your own car, but you can custom paint it any way that you desire.
To enjoy my daughter Katherine's designwork and creativity:
http://www.myspace.com/truthorange

So I am off to work out my brain, feed the hungry and dream of driving the cutest mini cooper that designed for the day!

Fun at the Lake for the 4th!

2008-07-11T07:56:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the lake with the family! Lot's of good food, sitting on the deck and playing on the water. Aaron and Ilon went on a tube ride! Izzie skied pregnant! Meredith looked great on the knee board and of course we had a little bit of badminton competition. Dean and I both tried the tube, Dean with success, me, not so much. It was fun to just be out on the water.

Someone is always left holding the cat(s)

2008-07-03T08:20:00.000-07:00

We are off to the lake for three nights! yippee! First time to stay multiple nights in our little lake house with our family. Looking forward to grilling out, floating on the lake, looking for turtles with the baby girl and drinking a cold beer on the deck after dark. We have heard that the fireworks will be beautiful all over the lake and looking forward to sitting out on the boat and watching the celebration. Thankful to those who are covering for us at LHC so that we can be away on Sunday and thankful to sweet Mere, who is getting to stuff the cats into a carrier on Friday and bring them down...meowing loudly all the way. Your the best Mere! (hope you make it unscratched) Also thankful for American holidays! So, readers...I exhort you all to go forth and relax, play and celebrate the 4th of July. Free at last, free at last...thank God almighty we can go off for a few days and be free at last with a paid holiday! We are so blessed.

Good News!

2008-06-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

A friend of many, Amy Bessire, died this past week. She was a delightful woman of God. Years ago, she put music to scripture and this song has been sung by believers ever since. The words are good news. Her life was good news. She will be missed, but her song sings on and on.
"The Steadfast love of the Lord never ceases.
His mercies never come to an end.
They are new every morning.
Great is thy faithfulness.
The Lord is my portion says my soul.
Therefore I will hope in Him.
Therefore I will hope.........in Him." Lamentations 3:22-25

and then there is verse 26: it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD

What is Fun?

2008-06-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

My daughters have fun.

Nuns have fun.

Why aren't we having some fun?

My elspouso and I are on the quest to have more fun. I remember having fun. It is fun to have fun. But, as we have gotten older, fun seems to be a bit too much trouble... and often just out of reach of the chair. So we are going to get out of the chairs and back into the fun. Now we have to remember what that is and go find it. Any ideas?

Poetry for All Seasons

2008-06-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

I am in a season of loving my parent's as a caretaker and daughter. It is a difficult and emotional journey. I have found that many people have written their feelings and thoughts on this disease of their loved ones in verse. I found this poem written by a man who has Alzheimer's disease.

Far Longer than Forever

Far longer than forever,

Cross the distance we’re apart,

Feelings of warmth and comfort Etched your image in my heart.
Far longer than forever, Beyond the journey’s end,

I’ll think of you with fondness,My special caring friend.
Nothing’s a greater challenge Than the present endeavor,

To remember you past memory Far longer than forever….
Tim Brennan 1997

I also found this interview on NPR of a poet who received a grant to take poetry into senior centers for people with Alzheimers disease. It is not a long interview and is really delightful if you have time to listen.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=1832793

Jesus Saves!

2008-05-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

In case you want to share this message in a gift...go to a fun website and check out the cool coin purses

for not too much moola. http://www.patinastores.com/index.cfm