Work in Progress

New study in James

2011-08-31T07:48:00.002-04:00

I'm very excited to start an online study in the book of James. Love that book and so happy to be able to do it with others! Just want to be more like Him....

Follow Me

2011-06-18T07:37:00.003-04:00

Heard this on christian radio a few days ago, but only now have time to post. Mozart's first symphony was first played by a junior high school band/orchestra. Now nothing against junior high but I'm sure it did not sound as it would if say the Philharmonic Orchestra performed it. You cannot judge the composer on how his followers perform. In the same light, man should not judge Jesus Christ on His followers. Jesus said "Follow me". We need only to look to Him and follow His example.
Thot for the day...

Where have you been?

2011-04-20T07:12:00.002-04:00

I haven't blogged in way too long! Sorry! With Greg being away most of the week with work, I have been working later hours. Did you ever notice that the more hours you spend at work, the more you can find to do? It is like a never ending battle! My brother,
Sean is back in China so please remember him in your prayers as well as his wife and kids at home.
Phil 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!

What are you holding on to?

2011-01-09T18:05:00.002-05:00

A hunter, to catch a baboon, will put bait in a hole in a tree. The baboon will put his hand in, grab the bait, and will not be able to pull his hand out. Instead of letting go of the bait, the baboon will stay there for days with his hand in the tree, until he either starves or the hunter returns to kill him. What am I holding on to that may be slowly killing me? It's so easy to think, "You stupid baboon! Just let go of the bait and you'll be fine!". But I do the same thing, holding on to something that God wants me to let go of. It's just not as obvious to me as the stubborn baboon! Open my eyes Lord!

What are you holding on to?

2011-01-09T18:05:00.000-05:00

Value

2011-01-04T20:50:00.002-05:00

Heard another analogy. Suppose someone offers you an old, grungy, beat up $100 bill. It's faded, dirty, crumpled. Would you take it? Of course! It still has value. Just because it is not brand new does not mean it isn't worth the same; it continues to hold it's value. God sees us that way. We may be "soiled", dirty, imperfect. But God sees us as valuable! Isn't that great to know?!

A New Year!

2011-01-03T20:04:00.002-05:00

I heard a terrific analogy today on my way home from work. An airbag is in your car to protect you. Yes it may hurt if it goes off, but it saves you from worse pain. We may be going through a painful time, but God may have allowed this to protect us from worse pain. It's hard to learn to be content in whatever state we are in. It's easy to think it, to know it in our head, but to truly be content is another thing.
This is a new year, a new chance to put into practice what the Bible says and to truly apply it to our lives. I'm so thankful for new years, new beginnings, another chance.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T06:05:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas one and all! Don't forget to celebrate the real reason for Christmas!

2 days before Christmas...

2010-12-23T09:00:00.002-05:00

2 more days! So much to do! I'm trying to finish crocheting a scarf for the daughter of one of my coworkers. I have to finish shopping, got paid today, and I MUST spend time with my brother. He is not here long enough! It goes so quickly! With having to work on Saturday, it makes it hard to spend the day with family.
God has surely met our needs this past year! We are so blessed! I'll do a recap of the year next week, kind of a year in review!
Enjoy your holidays! Merry Christmas! Keep Christ in Christmas!

They're coming!

2010-12-18T08:09:00.002-05:00

Sean, Amie and the kids are on their way! I just can't wait!
So much to do and so little time! I am so not ready for Christmas! I currently have 3 projects going at once and I'm not even sure if I'll finish them before Christmas. Who needs sleep?! It's going to be a homemade Christmas this year.
Please pray for safety for my brother and his family as they travel today.
And just a reminder.... He provides for our every need!

Windy!

2010-12-14T07:28:00.002-05:00

No, I didn't have to go up to the cabin to pick up Greg and Bill! Bill got the car started and they actually were home earlier than planned. When they got up to the cabin Thursday night, it was 13 degrees out and 32 in the cabin. That's cold!
Today is sooooo windy and cold!
During small group 2 weeks ago, we read these verses and I loved it, especially with the trying times.2 Chronicles 33:12 & 13-
And when he was in distress, he entreated the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. When he prayed to Him, He was moved by his entreaty and heard his supplication, and brought him again to Jerusalem to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord was God.
Some pretty powerful verses there!

Baby, it's cold outside

2010-12-11T09:05:00.002-05:00

So glad we are getting closer to Christmas! We've had more snow flurries this year than any I can remember. I just love the cold weather and snow!
This weekend our church is putting on their Christmas play.I usher tonight but Greg and I will see it tomorrow night. Greg and his boss, Bill, are at the cabin hunting. They left Thursday and should be back tonight.
My brother, Sean and his family are coming up next week! I can't wait to see them!They come up once a year. We stopped to see them for 2 days in the beginning of the summer, but it's never enough time!
Greg just called as I am posting this and the car they drove up in, won't start. Battery is good. I may have to drive out there (3hrs) and get them. Greg gets spotty reception on top of the mountain.

Snow and other things

2010-12-07T07:00:00.002-05:00

The awesome people of our church raised over 41,000$ at the One Day To Feed The World offering. Considering there are approximately 750 people that attend every Sunday, and it was an offering over and above the tithes, it was totally awesome!
We had snow again yesterday. Not enough to make too much trouble but enough to cover the grass. It's beautiful!
This is the first Christmas that I haven't done ANY shopping. I can't, I don't have it. It is totally depressing but I'm trying to do some homemade things. It just doesn't feel right. I really need to apply the principle of being content in all circumstances and I am trying.
Our small group is over until after Christmas. I'll miss it! It was nice to get to know a new group of people. We had a light meal this past Sunday as a group and some of the families came. I knew Josh had to work but was hoping Kristen could come. She had to work as an elf and it was later than she thought so Greg and I went. Yes, Kristen was an elf. She worked at Corey's mom's Christmas party as an elf, handing out gifts and assisting Santa. Complete with pointy ears!
Til next time...

A new day

2010-11-17T07:21:00.002-05:00

Well, I just don't know where to begin. Things did not work out as I had hoped with Greg's situation at work. God knows best and it's easy for me to acknowledge that in my head, but not as easy for me to acknowledge it in my heart sometimes. Like David, in the Psalms, I question why evil wins over good. Why does someone get away with doing wrong? Why does one who did right, get punished? It is not for me to question God, I just get a bit disappointed at times. I know He is in control!
As far as my work goes, no changes yet. I knew it could be a while. I don't mean to sound so mysterious but there are others involved. It will eventually be brought to light!
This Sunday is "One day to feed the world" at our church. It helps Convoy of Hope and the idea is to give one day's wages to help feed the world. My daughter, Kristen, is a waitress at Ruby Tuesday's. She works part time as she is in college. She made up her mind that whatever she made yesterday, she would give this Sunday! I'm so proud of her! Most of what she makes is in tips. She picked yesterday because she "closed", meaning she was the last waitress and closed the restaurant for the night, meaning better tips!
I keep praying for her as she has a heart for Him!

More drama

2010-11-09T06:10:00.002-05:00

Sean is home safely from China and it seems that Amie and the kids managed without him. Still no change at work, but I knew it may take some time.
Some unfair drama going on with Greg, can't get into that either, but please be in prayer that God's will be done and that the truth will come out.

Short post

2010-10-30T08:40:00.002-04:00

October is almost over and November will be here in just 2 days. Kristen will be 19 on Monday! As I said in my last post, my decision is made, now it is all in God's timing.
Learning to wait, in many areas on my life... waiting at work, waiting at home, waiting on Him.
My brother is in China again so please pray for safety and for Amie and the kids while he is away.

God's timing

2010-10-23T09:15:00.002-04:00

Decision made, but I can't get into it just yet. I feel at peace with it and Greg and I both agree that we're in a different stage of our lives as the kids are older and very independent. Sorry, this will all make sense when I can finally reveal what's going on. I'm waiting on things to happen at work, that are out of my control at the present time. And yes, this decision is work related.
Today is Michael's birthday. He would be 23! Greg and I will be heading down to place some flowers. We know he's in heaven but placing flowers is more for our benefit.
Mom and Dad are in Florida with Aunt Gail and Uncle Earl so Greg and I have Spike and Patch. They are not used to waiting on our unique schedule so it's a little more difficult. Max is so used to just "going with the flow". If I work 10 hrs, he eats when one of us gets home. With Patch and Spike, we have to make sure someone is there to feed them and let them out.
More to come...

Finally Friday

2010-10-15T05:47:00.002-04:00

Love Fridays! Even when I'm on-call the weekend, still love Fridays! This will be a short post. I have a major decision to make and am really praying for God's direction. Not getting into it yet as it is confidential at the present time. I want to hear His still, small voice LOUDLY in my ear! Please pray that God would give me wisdom in this decision and that I would keep my heart and spiritual ears open to His leading.
No major plans for this weekend, maybe going to get a pumpkin. Fall is here and I'm thoroughly enjoying the cooler weather.

Beautiful Fall!

2010-10-13T07:08:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the lapses, sure wish I could say it's been because I've been away on some exotic trip! No, just my busy life. Some exciting changes occurring in my life over the past few weeks.... Greg and I started a small group with our church. This in itself is exciting as Greg has not been brought up as I have and has never been comfortable with the concept of small groups. Our church started "Gro groups" which focus on what was taught from the pulpit that Sunday and expound and dig deeper. We've just begun the book of Phillipians and what a joy to dig into that encouraging book! Anyway, Greg is participating in group, which is a miracle in itself considering his initial comments to me were "Do I have to say anything?"
I'm excited to attend the Women of Purpose conference in Hershey in November! God worked that one out for me. I won't go into detail, but I actually get to attend this year. I'll be rooming with three women that I don't know, but am looking forward to making new friends.
Max tore his ACL while at the cabin 3 weeks ago. ACL= anterior crucial ligament. We had it surgically repaired and with 11 staples still intact, he is hobbling around. Staples come out this Friday. In 2 more weeks, we take him back to the vet that did the surgery, in Wilkes Barre, and then Max starts therapy on that leg! Can anyone else see money flying out of the wallet?!
Kristen had all four impacted wisdom teeth out (just days before Max's surgery!) She was a trooper!
We've been to the cabin as often as our schedules allow and actually went up 2 weekends ago with my mom's cousin and her husband, mom and dad, Greg and I. We had a very relaxing time and thoroughly enjoyed! Kristen was trying to get some friends together up at the cabin the end of October.
Took enough of your time! Enjoy the beautiful colors of fall!

Time flies...

2010-08-05T07:58:00.002-04:00

Wow! I turned around and it is August! Not much of a summer yet, seems all I do is work! Greg and I did get to the cabin last Thursday, took a family from our church. The girls were 6 and 8. Ooooh, I remember when Kristen was that age! Time flies! We had a great time just getting to know Travis and Diane better and spending time in God's beautiful creation. Mom and dad are down at Sean's in Georgia. Sean's birthday is tomorrow. Greg's sister Tammy and her son Ryan are flying in from Utah tonight. We are hoping to have a family get-together at the cabin on Saturday. I say hoping as I'm on-call this weekend and I have to be at church early Sunday am to set up for communion.
Thoughts for the day: after reading Brandi's blog, how much time do I spend on my knees in prayer, petitioning Him and thanking Him for all He's done? I spend more time in prayer when I'm driving or walking. (I know, I'm a little crazy, but I totally enjoy walking outdoors, alone, and talking/praying out loud to Him!) I think I need to restart my prayer journal...

Mother's Day Wishes

2010-05-09T15:57:00.002-04:00

The best job in the world is being a mother. I can't explain the feeling of having life inside your very body, feeling your child grow and move. It's incredible! The feeling when that little one finally makes his way into the world and you finally see that beautiful face, feel those tiny fingers and hold your newborn close to your heart, knowing that you would do anything for this brand new life. I have been blessed three times with the gift of birth, Michael, Joshua and Kristen. I would not trade each experience for anything in the world. Through all the difficulties have been joys unspeakable. One of my favorite things is watching them sleep, praying over them as they sleep peacefully, unaware of the many petitions I made for them. My God holds them in His hands and loves them even more than I do! Hard to imagine! I can only love in my human frailty, but He loves in perfection. More than anything I can imagine or hope is that my Josh and Kristen will truly know Him, experience His faithfulness and live for Him. This is my mother's day wish.

Way too Long!

2010-03-18T08:28:00.003-04:00

To say I haven't been so faithful in posting is an understatement! Last week we drove to Sarasota Florida to pick up some furniture from my in-laws. Long time in a car, but it was a nice trip! Enjoyed seeing their place and them! We stopped at my brother's in Georgia on the way back up to PA. Way overdue! Our time together was too short and I think we will just have to visit for a longer time sometime soon. I just love my brother, Sean and his wife, Amie and their kids, Noah, Micah and Chloe to pieces! It was terrific spending time with them as short as it was!If I learn how to post some pics, I'll do that!Greg wasn't feeling well the past 2 days, but seems to be fully recovered today. Josh is looking for a new job and Kristen continues working at Ruby Tuesdays and going to college.We're having our corned beef, cabbage and red potatoes tonight as Greg was really not up to it yesterday and I ended up working until 11:30 pm last night. My dad had some medical tests done yesterday and the reports are good, no foreseeable issues.
Today is gorgeous outside, 70 and just plain beautiful!I feel so blessed! This Saturday is our Women of Purpose Tea and 420 tickets were sold and we had to close the ticket sales. Praise God! It's a fashion show, worship and speaker and will benefit a children's home.It will be a long day as mom and I are going early to help set up and serve. My niece's birthday celebration is that evenng-she turned 21 yesterday! Erin-go-bragh!
Until next time...

Snowy Saturday!

2010-02-06T10:48:00.002-05:00

Finally feeling a bit better after spending most of the week lying down due to tonsillitis, pharyngitis, conjunctivitis and Strep throat! First sick time I've missed from work in a couple years!
Snow! Not as much as I would have liked, but snow none the less. What is it about a coating of snow that makes everything look so clean and fresh? Kind of makes me think about what God must see when He looks at me with a coating of Jesus! Fresh, pure, holy!

Too long!

2010-01-30T17:25:00.002-05:00

It's been too long between posts. Not alot to say, just little stuff. Well, it looks like my overtime is gone. It was so helpful while it lasted and really helped us to have a Christmas. Still working on debt, but our goal is the end of the year. Josh is now working fulltime at Subway and still with Summer. He is doing well though not much interest in church. Keep praying for his heart to turn to Him. Kristen is working at Ruby Tuesdays as a hostess and going to school for Business admin. She is with Corey still. He transferred from Penn State main to Lehigh Univ this semester as he and Kristen hated being so far apart. With his grades, he can pretty much go anywhere on full scholarships!
Greg and I are doing well. As we are both working, we thank God for jobs! Especially in todays economy. Next weekend is the Sportsmans dinner at church. There is a well-known speaker each year and of course, supper is venison. It's an outreach for people who normally wouldn't go to church as well as a time for good fellowship for mostly men. I served last year and will this year too. But I'm really looking forward to the following weekend when Greg and I get to go away with couples from our church for a weekend retreat. It will be so nice to spend quality time with each other. There will be meetings and free time as well as a really nice dinner Saturday night. After the meeting on Sunday, we'll come home and what's even better is that it isn't real far. It's in Plymouth Meeting. Of course it's over Valentine's weekend! :)
Mom and Dad are doing well. It is nice having them so close.
Enough for now!

Changing my story

2010-01-09T12:13:00.002-05:00

For 2010, we are reading "The Story". Today at the women's breakfast, Pastor Liz spoke about changing our story. It doesn't matter what our circumstances, how bad/good we were raised or what we have come from. If we allow Him, who is all powerful and loves us more than we can fathom, He can change our story! I don't need to wallow in self pity, depression, making excuses for everything I can't do because of this, that or the other thing. I CAN do anything He wants me to! If I follow His Word and live the life He wants for me, anything can happen! How exciting is that! What an adventure He and I will have this year! Can't wait to see what He will do through me!

A New Year!

2010-01-01T19:08:00.002-05:00

Welcome 2010! I'm not one for New Year's resolutions but I do like to set some goals for the year. Greg and I have definitely benefitted from the Financial Peace University course we took and I want to continue that trend. I think this is the first Christmas I have come out of without credit card debt! Yay! That is more due to Greg than me. We would like to be debt-free this year, not including our mortgage. I want to increase my devotion time. It is really hard with the hours I've been putting in at work, but hopefully that will start to decrease and I just need to make it a point to spend longer time studying and talking to Him. There is more but I've bored you enough! What are you going to do differently this year?

Happy Birthday Jesus!

2009-12-25T12:27:00.002-05:00

So blessed this Christmas! Thinking of all He has blessed us with this year...most of all for the opportunities He has provided. Many opportunities to share about Him, especially at work and the overtime He provided to help us become more secure financially. Without the overtime and Greg's side jobs, we would not have been able to give Josh and Kristen a good Christmas, nor would we have been able to help with the Tree of Hope at church. I don't know about you, but the best part of Christmas for me is giving and watching others open what I've picked out! It's the best! I only wish I could have seen that little 2 yr old girl open her Tinkerbell stuff! Thank you God for sending your son to our world, the best gift ever!!!!!

Wonderful White Christmas!

2009-12-21T06:00:00.002-05:00

Well, we officially got 5.4 inches. Enough to make for a white christmas! And the best part, my brother and his family are up from Georgia! We won't get to see them until after Christmas, but they're here! I can't wait!
Most of my Christmas shopping is done. I've been so lucky to get great sales this year. Greg is away with work from Monday to Wednesday this week and next week. Poor guy did NOT want to leave!
4 days until Christmas!

I Am A Christian

2009-11-18T15:57:00.001-05:00

I Am A Christian

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Blessings

2009-11-17T23:07:00.001-05:00

The Celebration of Gavin Owens life was awesome! What a blessing! It will be on Gavin's website for those who could not be there in person. Also, my brother made it home safely from China and as far as I know, no major catastrophes for Amie with the kids. God is good all the time, all the time, God is good!

China

2009-11-11T09:35:00.002-05:00

Chatted with Sean when I got home from work at midnight. He happened to go on while waiting for his ride to the factory. It was 1 pm China time as they are 13 hrs different. Sean thinks he'll be back Sunday instead of Saturday so please continue to lift him, Amie and the kids up in prayer.

Updates

2009-11-10T09:33:00.001-05:00

Gavin went home to be with Jesus. He is finally whole and at peace. My brother Sean left for China on a business trip, please pray for safety for him and for Amie and the kids that all would go smoothly until Sean returns.

Gavin

2009-11-07T10:22:00.002-05:00

Gavin is still fighting. Please visit his blog (link on mine) for the latest. What a little fighter!PRAY!

Pray for Gavin

2009-10-24T20:41:00.001-04:00

Please see Gavin's site for an update. Karen and Adam have reached a crossroad in Gavin's care where the docs will now keep him comfortable as trying to heal him is becoming out of the question. A rough decision as a parent. Please pray for strength and peace for Karen and Adam.

Pastor Appreciation Day

2009-10-13T00:53:00.002-04:00

We had our Pastor appreciation Day at church yesterday.I wish I could have given thousands of dollars to each of them. Some of our pastors are in the spotlight, like Pastor Steve, delivering the message each week and like Pastor Bruce, who does an incredible job leading worship. Worship at MorningStar really sets the tone and allows me to focus on praising God before being fed His Word.Other Pastors are in the background, doing just as important work but don't get the attention, such as Pastor Paul who is the construction and fixer pastor. Each one has their own unique personality and they work well to keep our leadership team new and innovating with perspectives from young and older,spiritually based and practicality based.Each pastor is easy to talk with and setting a good example for us with their families. I love my church and love love love our pastors. I pray that God will bless them with good health, give wisdom in following Him and hearing what direction God would like them to go, and reach others for Him. God bless our pastors!

New Old Car

2009-10-03T10:16:00.002-04:00

Well, thanks to some help from Greg's step-sister, Genia, I got a car. A 1999 Honda CRV and boy is this car clean! It was garage kept and they put few miles on it every year! When I can get some pics from my phone, I'll post them. Genia works at Conicelli, a car dealer down in Norristown.

Car update

2009-09-30T05:30:00.000-04:00

Well, it's official! It's totaled!

Stupid Me!

2009-09-26T14:47:00.000-04:00

Okay, Kristen and I were driving to Rice's market to get her a school bag. Cars stopped in front of me because someone was turning left, I couldn't stop and hit the poor girl in front of me who then hit the car in front of her. My car had to be towed, their cars were with minimal damage. Poor Kristen was crying. Ah well, life goes on and it always costs me money! Ever see the movie "Money Pit"? Well that's my car!!!!! Everything happens for a reason! :)

Thought for the Day

2009-09-16T08:52:00.001-04:00

If you were arrested for being a christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?

Still here!

2009-09-12T08:16:00.002-04:00

Josh turned 20 this week! We went out to dinner to celebrate. Kristen is enjoying college, lots of work! I'm still working 12-13 hrs a day but it looks like that will be stopping soon. Ah well.

Where did she go?

2009-08-13T00:12:00.002-04:00

Oh my! It's been a month since I've posted! Time flies when you're working 12-13 hr days! Greg has picked up side jobs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.He is still working in the sound rm on Sundays at church. Josh is working at Subway and seems to be staying out of trouble. Kristen is starting college at the end of August! My baby is going to be in college! Where does the time go?! Mom and dad travel quite a bit, often with Gail and Earl on mini vacations, to Sean's and up to her brother Walt's. Dad still works part time at his old church, Calvary.
Johannes Amritzer was at our church last weekend and what a breath of fresh air he is! If you haven't listened to him yet, click on his name toward the bottom of my blog to hear him!
Greg and I hope to go up to the cabin this weekend. It is our time to get away, spend time with each other and get some alone time too. I love sitting by the creek, listening to nature or lying out at night and looking up at the zillions of stars that I can't see elsewhere because of lights. It is pitch black at night at the cabin. You can't even see your hand in front of your face!
Josh hurt his back somehow and has been in a lot of pain. He's going to the hospital tommorrow to find out what is causing the pain. Please pray for him.

The Weekend!

2009-07-18T10:39:00.002-04:00

It's Saturday! Passion Fest is today. Also a garage sale to help with Gavin's medical expenses. Josh is working today. He is enjoying his job and getting back on his feet. Pray for continued work in his heart, to seek Him. Kristen picked Corey up from State College yesterday, then on their way home, picked me up at work. Corey is home for the weekend and has to head back tomorrow. My car is in the shop as it broke down on the turnpike coming home from work on Wed night. Radiator and another $1000 bill! Kristen works tonight but Corey has a paper to write for Monday so that works well. We're all going to the shore tomorrow, as a family, for a couple of hours.Kristen, Corey, Josh, Summer, Greg and I! Headed to Island Beach State Park. We go there because you pay by the car instead of buying individual day-beach badges and they have a nice shower house/ snack bar. It's great for just the day.
Morning Star has been participating in Angel Food Ministries. I've purchased food through this the past two months and am quite pleased. You get $50 worth of groceries for $30 and can purchase other packages that really save money. I drove to church last night to get my July box and I'm thrilled!
Enough for updates. Have a great weekend!

I forgot

2009-07-15T07:00:00.001-04:00

Sorry! I forgot to let you know that Amie and the kids survived the flood sucessfully. Thanks to friends! And Sean made it home safely! Thanks for praying!

Call 2 Fall

2009-07-15T06:42:00.002-04:00

Hey all! Awesome sermon at church last week on calling on Him. IF we humble ourselves, pray seeking His face and turn from our ways THEN He hears, forgives and heals. 2 Chronicles 7:14 Often we must do our part, we must act first then God responds. If you get a chance to listen, it can be found on the Morning Star Fellowship link.
As a side, Josh got home safely from 4 days at State College with Summer and her family. He starts his job today! Answered prayer!
Kristen is plugging along. Work is keeping her plenty busy. She had orientation at college and is trying to save every paycheck for tuition and books.
Greg started to renovate a barn for one of our neighbors. That keeps him more than busy every Friday and Saturday.
I've been picking up approximately 15-20 hrs of OT each week. I'm salary, so getting in my 8-9 hrs first, then doing OT makes for an extremely long day. 3-4 days a week I get home around midnight. I'm trying to not work weekends so I can spend some time with my family. I almost never work Sundays as I love church. I'm on-call every other weekend but have not been called in on a Sunday, thank goodness!
Mom and dad are doing okay. Mom's neurologist continues to try to find the right combination of meds. She is super sensitive to medication and often will not give the drug time to work. As soon as she experiences anything negative, she feels it is a side effect of the medication and goes off or cuts it back, never allowing her body to adjust to the medication. It must be hard for her. Please keep them in your prayers.

Family

2009-07-08T08:21:00.002-04:00

So much has been going on! Greg, Josh and I went to the cabin for the weekend to spend the fourth with Greg's family. Josh and Greg had some quality time together and Josh is really coming around. Kristen had to work so she stayed home, but she got to see Corey, who was back from college for the weekend to see his uncle who is moving to Indiana. I had some quiet time on Sunday while Josh and Greg went 4-wheeling and fishing. It was beautiful sitting by the creek with my Bible! I'm working a lot of OT for the next few weeks. Hard but needed.
For the past year, Kristen has been reading her Bible on her own. She has asked good questions. Josh shared something with me the other day. He told me that Kristen had shown him something "neat" in the New Testament, that she had been reading. First sign of interest!Josh and Kristen have always been close, but I see their relationship growing. Josh admires his sister and Kristen loves her brother! Please pray that God continues to use Kristen in Josh's life. He listens to her, more than if "mom" would tell him something!
Please pray for my brother, Sean and his family as he is away on another business trip to Taiwan or China, not sure which. Amie has the 3 kids by herself which is difficult and it's also hard on Sean being away from his family for extended periods of time. Pray for safety in his travels also.

Update

2009-06-29T09:08:00.002-04:00

Josh is at Dewey Beach with Summer and her family. Corey is now at Penn State main. Kristen is sad but working which helps keep her mind off everything. Greg is busier than ever. Yesterday Greg and I went with my parents to the Kutztown Folk Festival. The quilts are beautiful! So much to see. We had lunch there after church and walked around. Of course I had corn pie! That's what I get every year! Max went and totally ate up all the attention!
We just finished the series, Fearless, at church. Once again, it was awesome! Pastor Dave spoke about David, the smaller guy who took out Goliath! You can listen to any of these messages under my MorningStar link. God often wants us to act before He shows what He will do.

Back to Almost Normal

2009-06-23T08:06:00.004-04:00

Hi all! Josh is still not right. He's coughing, has terrible stomach pains and looks awful. I don't know. Kristen is back from Ocean City Md where she had a great time despite the entire week of clouds! Corey leaves for Penn State Main at the end of this week, so she is a bit sad about that. Josh's girlfriend, Summer turned 16 yesterday. Father's Day was this past Sunday. I am grateful for my dad and the example he has been for me. I love him to pieces! My husband has also had to step into an "instant dad" role and I'm so proud of him. But I knew when I met him and saw him with the kids that he would be awesome with them and he is. He invests in them and it will eventually pay off, is even now.
I can't believe the sun is finally shining! Ok, you know how we all were talking about how depressing it is when it rains for like a week straight? We've had 40 days of rain since April! Compare that to how it must feel when we go a week without His Son! Totally depressing! Everyone was saying that they were tired, feeling blah, lacking energy, etc. The same happens when we don't regularly meet with Him. Our "sonshine" who gives energy, feeds us spiritually and emotionally and keeps us "healthy" in our point of view and the way we live! I don't know about you but I always feel lighter, more energetic and ready to tackle things when it's spring/summer.I can only hope that I crave Him as much as our bodies crave the sun!

A Long Day

2009-06-18T00:17:00.002-04:00

Wow! I just got home from working 16 hrs.I'm beat! Greg took Josh and his two closest friends, Buddy and Mikey, up to the cabin until Friday. Guy time! Josh has been very sick since early Sunday morning. He was running a temp of over 102, dropping to 101.7 with Tylenol and 800mg of Ibuprofen.Awful body aches, nauseas, wicked sore throat and cough.I took him to the hospital on the advice of our family doc to be tested for swine flu and Influenza A and B.I knew he had strep throat but because the doctors are following the CDC guidelines, they can't see patients in the office if swine flu is suspected. After many calls to our doc and two days later with two negative reports of swine flu, he was able to be seen by the doc who confirmed my diagnosis of strep throat.We are waiting for the final result of the swine flu test as it takes a week for a true reading.I don't think I've ever seen Josh that sick. He just laid, no energy, slept alot and couldn't eat or drink anything. I managed to get him to eat a few ice pops here and there (2-3 per day) but whenever he tried, he would vomit. I was also worried because Josh is prone to strep throat and I could tell by looking at it that he had strep and I had to fight to get him on antibiotics. Strep isn't something you let go untreated!Today is the first day he feels almost human again.
Kristen is still in Ocean City, Maryland and having a wonderful time. The weather hasn't been so hot as it's been overcast every day, but they are having fun.She comes home Saturday. She misses her mama or mutty as she calls me (german for mother).
Prayer request for us that we can get on solid financial ground. Right now we're sliding. I'm salary and can only get OT when I work the floor after my eight hours or on weekends. My position consumes 50-60 hours a week. I had 20 hrs of overtime with my last check which really helps, but we feel like we're not getting ahead. I'm working 12 hrs this Saturday, but I'm not getting younger and it's hard not having a day off. Greg does not get paid well in his position. He's trying to take on side jobs but is limited in what time he can do this as he works 10 hr days not including travel time. Some of his jobs are up to 2 hrs away. Plus he's been trying to finish my parents basement.Then he can start the lawyer's barn and bring in some extra. But I don't get to see him much when the projects begin.This too shall pass but when you're wondering where the money is going to come from just to buy food or put gas in the car to get to work, the only thing we can do is rely on Him to truly meet our needs.God is good, and we're learning to truly lean on Him.

Anniversary Number 5!

2009-06-15T09:01:00.002-04:00

Greg and I celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary by going to the park where he proposed to me! How sweet! This time we didn't have the kids with us as Kristen is in Ocean City, Md for the week and Josh was home sick. But Max came! Josh started with 102 fever yesterday and a wicked sore throat. Our church continues with the Fearless sermons and this week's was awesome again! Check it out at the MorningStar link at the bottom of this site!

Kristen!

2009-06-08T08:21:00.000-04:00

Graduation complete!

2009-06-08T08:11:00.003-04:00

Kristen graduated yesterday! The weather was beautiful and so was my little girl! We are so proud of her! Mom and Dad made it safely home from the Outer Banks and attended graduation with us. As soon as I snag Kristen, I'll add photos.
Our church started a new series entitled Fearless last Sunday. It is really good! The first one was on Gideon and this past one was on Shadrak, Mishak and Abednego. If you get a chance, go to MorningStar's link on this page and listen to the message.

Graduation

2009-06-02T08:52:00.002-04:00

It's been way too long! I'm swamped! Mom and Dad are in the Outer Banks with siblings and cousins, a wonderful reunion for them. Josh is still job hunting and having a hard time. KMart wouldn't hire him because of his misdemeanor! Poor kid really wants to work. Please pray the he finds something. Also, my nephew Stephen went out to dinner with mom, dad, Josh and his girlfriend Summer. Mom said that Josh spoke of Jesus and was very good with his responses to Stephen, leading him down the right path. Please continue to pray that God would draw Josh's heart to Him and use him in a mighty way. Kristen got a job at Auntie Ann's Pretzels, not her favorite, but it will do until she finds something else. She graduates this weekend! Sunday at Stabler Arena. She is still with Corey. He leaves for Penn State main at the end of June. Greg and I would like to get down to Georgia to see my brother and his family this summer sometime. Please pray that if it is His will, we'll find a way to be able to do this. Greg is busier than ever. He took a week's vacation to get Mom's basement started and got a lot done. He is redoing a barn for a lawyer and will continue on that on his weekends. Our church wants him to help redo the sound room. He works in the sound room every other Sunday. Things are busy, but life is good right now. I'll try to post some graduation pics after Sunday and to post more frequently.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-11T08:59:00.002-04:00

A day late, but I haven't had my computer! Yesterday day was Mother's Day and I don't know about you, but I often reflect and remember on Mother's Day. I think of my own mother and my mommom (who is with Jesus) and all they are and did for us, who they were/are and what made/makes them so special. My mom is awesome! A real inspiration, a strong woman of Christ, a loving mother and grandmother. I am so thankful to have had these two godly women in my life, so thankful for all they have taught me and instilled in me and so thankful to have their example. I also think back to how I raised my kids and did I do it right? Was there anything I would have done differently? I'm sure we all have something that we would change, but being human doesn't allow for perfection, and I'm okay with that. I love my kids, imperfections and all. God is in control and I have placed them in His hands and I just continue to pray for them and love on them. They are old enough to make their own decisions, to suffer the consequences of their decisions, to be independent. It doesn't mean that I totally step out of the picture, if they ask for advice or guidance, I'm there, if I think they're taking the wrong path, I'm there, but once I offer my guidance or state my piece, I need to step back and let them make their own decision. I'm there to rejoice with them and to cry with them, to pick up pieces, to be proud of their accomplishments. That's what being a mom is all about. Happy Mother's Day, moms!

Spring Cleaning, Part 2

2009-05-07T06:50:00.003-04:00

Well, this past weekend Greg and I went through our bedroom and walk-in closet! Argh! I worked Saturday so we had Sunday afternoon to spend on every drawer, shelf, nook and cranny! Three more bags of clothes for Goodwill. How much we accumulate! Greg and I were talking about this, seems there's a human longing for "stuff". Oh how I want to be content in whatever state I'm in. I don't want so much "stuff", literally and figuratively in my life. I want to simplify and prioritize. Wouldn't it be great if we could get rid of the "stuff" in our lives as easily as the stuff in our closets?
Update on Chloe, no more seizures! She is seeing a neurologist, so we'll know more soon, hopefully. Update on Josh, his criminal background check (a misdemeanor), kept him from getting the job at KMart, back to the drawing board! Update on Kristen, graduation is June 7! Corey's Sr Prom is Friday and Kristen's is May 16th.

Spring Cleaning

2009-05-03T22:51:00.002-04:00

Sorry it's been so long between posts! Last weekend, Greg, Kristen and I tackled the attic! Wow! How does one accumulate so much stuff? We got it done and it is very empty. This weekend we tackled our bedroom and closet. Doesn't sound like much but I removed 3 large trash bags of clothes for Goodwill, 4 bags of trash, 3 smaller bags of stuff for our barn sale and changed over my summer clothes, putting some winter sweaters upstairs until fall.I cleaned out every drawer and shelf of mine and I'm proud to say, got rid of more than half of it! I'm a saver so that's an accomplishment! Or clothes... do you ever take something out of the drawer or that's hanging in your closet and think "I may wear this again. or I might need this for some occassion" Well, if I haven't worn it all year.... GoodBye! Greg's been cleaning out the barn, replanting yews in front of mom and dad's porch and he wants to finish their basement by June. Kristen graduates from high school June 7th so plans are in the works for that. Her senior prom is May 16 and Corey's is May 8. The only good thing is that she gets to wear her dress twice. For the price, she should get married in it! Tickets for the prom are astronomical! It costs so much to graduate! I don't remember spending that much when I graduated. Josh is getting a job at KMart. Whatever works! He and Summer are still together. Well, I'll post again, but I'm beat! Night all!

Pray For Chloe

2009-04-16T19:09:00.002-04:00

Please pray for Sean and Amie's daughter, Chloe. She is almost a year old and is having seizures again. She gets febrile seizures. Pray that God would heal her precious little body of these seizures, that God would give wisdom to her pediatrician and her parents in dealing with this. It is so hard to watch your child go through something beyond your control! And it doesn't get any easier when they're older! So hard to just let go and let God. But He says that when two or more agree, He will do it. Let's agree that this dear little one needs healing!

Over Due

2009-04-11T09:19:00.002-04:00

It's been too long between posts! Just too much going on! Greg's mom and stepdad have sold their home up here in Chalfont as well as their home in Florida but they bought a new home in Florida. Greg's been helping pack up their belongings in the PA home. Barb and Gene have a gorgeous home in Chalfont and LOTS of things. We have gratefully accepted some furniture and decorative items. My 35+ yr old sofa is now gone! Yeah! It was ripped and stained but now we have the one from Barb and Gene and it is wonderful! Our sofa in the basement was trash picked (from someone the kids know).It is nice to have some real furniture! As Greg brought carfulls of things home, we've been busy finding places for everything!
Greg has been so busy and next week will be driving the moving van down to Florida for them. Pray for safety.
My husband is so wonderful! He helps everyone! He is a technology nut! He had been talking to some man regarding a computer, (Greg buys old computers, fixes them and resells them to make a couple extra bucks). Well in the process of the back and forth conversing about the computer this guy is selling, Greg learns from him that he is unemployed with 3 kids and a wife. Now Greg is trying to help him get a job! My husband is just something else!
Easter is tomorrow. What a joyous remembrance! Yesterday was Good Friday and it was a bit sad thinking about what Christ did for me, so undeserving I am, but so grateful! Tomorrow, I get to think about His conquering of death! Nothing holds Him back!

Relationship

2009-04-02T07:26:00.002-04:00

I was listening to the Word FM yesterday on my way in to work (the only station I listen to!). The woman was talking about our relationship with God, telling others about special times we've had together. She compared it to the relationship with a husband or boyfriend and said that when you talk to others about your special love, you often have no trouble talking about special times, moments, trips, things you experience together. Our relationship with God should be the same way. I can think of many times of "special" moments I've had with Him, some were intimate, others I could share. He's always been there for me. I don't think I've ever felt the same sense of peace and His purpose as I did when I held my son Michael in my arms until his heart stopped. I think of the words to the hymn.... " Oh what peace we often forfeit, Oh what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer". If you think about it, we get closer to our loved ones by spending time with them and talking with them. We get closer to Him by spending time with Him and talking with Him. The longer our relationship and the more we go through together, the more times we see Him come through, the more experiences we have to be able to share with others.
Boy, I hope this makes sense to you. I don't have a way with words, but while listening to that yesterday, it was something I felt I should share.

Awesome!

2009-03-29T15:15:00.002-04:00

We had Johannes Amritzer speak at church this morning, what an awesome, energetic man of God! He spoke about being a priest for those who do not attend church. What an amazing perspective! If you get a chance, go to MorningStar's site and listen to Johannes Amritzer's message, you will definitely not be disappointed! I'll see if I can figure out how to add a link to open it up on this site.

Daniel Fast

2009-03-27T22:36:00.002-04:00

Sorry to take so long to post another blog. Work has been absolutely time-consuming and stressful for the past two weeks.
We started a 3 week Daniel fast with our church this past Sunday. No meat, breads nor sweets. The wonderful part is that my husband and daughter are actually doing it with me. We are supporting each other in our desires and striving to be closer to Him and more in conversation with Him and each other. More time reading His Word, praying and encouraging each other. In the past, I've been the only one in my house who fasts, so I am thrilled that Greg and Kristen wanted to participate. God will work, His Will will be accomplished. I pray that He uses me.

Going Through the Motions

2009-03-19T17:01:00.002-04:00

There's an awesome song out by Matthew West called "The Motions". It speaks of going through life with His all-consuming passion, not having regrets, and being more than just okay. I want a ground-shaking, soul-shattering walk with Him! I want all He has for me! I don't want to go through life and not make a difference! I want Him to use me in a mighty way! Can you tell I'm zealous about this?! (I've never used so many exclamation marks in one paragraph before!)

Family Pics!

2009-03-15T21:04:00.002-04:00

The Power of Two

2009-03-15T19:44:00.002-04:00

Pastor Steve has been doing a series on "Tapping Into the Power Grid". Today was part 3, Tapping into His Name. One thing that really hit home to me was when he expounded on this verse; Matthew 18:19 "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven" (NIV). He went on to say that it's time we take back. If a husband and wife agree that their child was dedicated to the Lord and he is not walking with the Lord, they need to get on their knees together and agree. They need to petition God in prayer. God promises us so many things. He never forces Himself on us, we just need to ask, to actively choose to receive. He's amazing!

Work in Progress

2009-03-10T23:50:00.002-04:00

Why did I chose Work in Progress? Because that's me! That's what I'll be until He calls me home. As much as I see change, I see more that needs to change. I'll never be done. Phillipians 1:6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of salvation.
I'm so glad He doesn't just give up, but keeps working to make me more like Him!

Monday Musings

2009-03-09T22:21:00.002-04:00

It's Monday! Not my favorite day of the week, but I got through it. My sister got a job that fits in with her school schedule. Not much, but it's something!
I am a control freak. That is something that I've been working on, letting go and letting God. It's actually getting easier! So often I'd give a worry to God, tell Him it's in His hands, then reach up and take it back again to worry over! I think my son is actually teaching me the concept of letting go. He's 19 yrs old. I cannot control his every move or action. He drives and hangs with friends. I cannot be there every minute (nor would he like me to be!) I put him in God's hands, trusting that God's will be done, and I'm actually comfortable with that. Hey, it's a start!

Home from Taiwan!

2009-03-07T13:29:00.001-05:00

Just to let you all know, Sean made it safely home from Taiwan! I'm sure Amie and the kids are thrilled! As well as Sean! While he was away, Amie and the kids got snow! In Georgia!

Daddy

2009-03-07T08:43:00.002-05:00

I watched a vimeo on Pastor Pete's site that shows his boys, all excited because daddy was home. Do you remember those days? I do! I remember being so excited when my dad got home from work, running to the door and shouting. I also remember my kids jumping up and down and yelling when their dad came home. (Yes, even though my youngest is 17 yrs old, I do remember!) This got me thinking. How do I respond when it's time for me to meet, daily, with my Heavenly Father? Am I excited and can't wait to spend time with Him, to figuratively climb onto His lap? Or do I act as an adult instead of a child, and nonchalantly sit down at the table with Him to spend a few minutes with Him? How did Pastor Pete feel when he came home and his boys were so glad to see him? He must feel happy, warm and loved! How does God feel when I anxiously look forward to spending time with Him, just as a child anxiously awaits his father's return home from work each day?
Oh how I want to be like a child... Just a thought...

Updates

2009-03-04T22:56:00.003-05:00

Please check out Gavin's site as his condition is up and down and continue to pray for him and his family. My brother, Sean, is still in Taiwan and really hoping to get home soon.
My sister's (Sharon) husband (Mike) lost his job. My sister is in school for Speech/Language Pathology but is trying to get a job that fits in her school schedule. Please pray for them also.
My family is doing fairly well. My mom was diagnosed with Parkinson's last week. She and my dad live in part of our barn that we renovated for them. This way we are close and can help each other out!
God is so good! I'm in a terrific but thought provoking Bible study with some women at our church, by Kay Arthur. I'm refreshing my guitar playing with a class at church. I used to play in my teens for Youth Group and in a traveling singing group, but it has been shelved for 25+ yrs! This has been great fun!
And I thoroughly enjoy our Sunday messages at MorningStar as well as watching Pastor Pete's at his website during the week. All of this helps keep me on the straight and narrow.
When I figure out how to post pics, I'll put some on! I told you I was new to this blogging!

Random thoughts

2009-02-28T09:20:00.003-05:00

What a week! Not the best one I've ever had. Gavin is doing better! Please check out his blog.
Pastor Pete is starting a new sermon series. I absolutely loved his series on overcoming fear. This new series on "Backseat Jesus" looks to be the perfect follow-up to the fear series. You can view the sermons or the intro at the Cross Point link on my blog.
Adding another prayer request, please pray for my son, Josh. He has been clean and sober for about 5 weeks. Pray that God turns Josh's heart to Him. Josh is 19.
Anyway, just random things going through my head this morning!

More Prayer Needed

2009-02-26T21:43:00.003-05:00

Please continue to pray for Gavin, who made it through an extremely long surgery and has a tough road ahead of him. Pray for God-given strength for Adam and Karen to get through this.
My brother is still in Taiwan so please continue to remember him and his family. My sister's husband is without a job right now. She is a full-time student , they have one daughter in college, a daughter who is a senior in high school, a son in ninth grade and another son in seventh.

Prayer Request

2009-02-23T07:31:00.004-05:00

Please pray for Gavin and his family! Tomorrow he is having surgery. (You can visit his site through my site under the blogs I follow). Also, Karen's grandmother is having surgery to correct her broken neck. When it rains, it pours! Adam and Karen are everyday people trying to serve Him and survive in their life with a medically fragile son and their beautiful 4 yr old daughter.
God is good and He is in control. God also brought to my mind this week, my youngest brother who is in Taiwan on business. It is difficult when he goes on these trips as his wife is home with three kids.They live in Georgia so it's not like I can stop over to help! Please pray for them- for safety for my brother, Sean and for Amie, his wife,and their children, Noah, Micah and Chloe.

Something New

2009-02-21T12:31:00.003-05:00

I've never tried to blog, so this is something new! I follow a lot of blogs, but that is so much different that creating your own! I have a new respect for all you bloggers! My husband's birthday was this past Thursday. One of the gifts that I bought him will benefit me also. I bought a blank journal. Each day I write in the journal, something I like or love about him so that at this time next year, he will have 365 reasons why I love him! In just the few days I've been doing this, it benefits me as it forces me to look at the positives of my husband and not what isn't how I want it. I hope that makes sense. It's easy to come up with wonderful things the first few months, but I'm sure as time marches on, it may be a bit more difficult to write about something new. By having to come up with one new thing I love about my husband every day, I really need to focus on all the positives.