Christmas Socks!

Got to love them ... here's yet another tradition for our family! Thanks to my amazing mom who got us started years ago on fun, exciting, Christmas socks. We all love to wear them (at least Randy participates to some degree - could be most socks are a tad small for his masculine feet but the boys and I thoroughly enjoy them!)

Holiday Traditions

I absolutely love traditions and Thanksgiving seems to really kick in the thoughts when it comes to traditions. This year we were blessed to get to spend Thanksgiving with the Kneisley family in Walden, Texas. We had planned to be up at Kansas celebrating with Randy's mom and one of his little brothers as well as my parents except God obviously had other plans in mind and my health did not allow the boys and I to be able to drive to Kansas. It was a joy to meet and get to know their daughters and Josiah & Malachi had a blast getting to play with friends that lived across the street from them. Food and friends ... makes for a blessed Thanksgiving. We got to talking about traditions and foods. Our family added noodles to their list of traditional foods. Its always been a family tradition for us but when questioned I'm guessing it comes from my mother's German side of the family. We also do pecan pie and they chocolate pie in addition to the normal pumpkin. My husband always has acini de pepe (sp?) salad but sad to say this year it was a miss as I had to help even making the noodles. Another miss for us was the deviled eggs ... but the boys reassured me that we could do them when I was better and it would be okay. All this has gotten me pondering other family traditions and/or mile markers and here's a few that have come to mind at present: Yearly - Pick out a Christmas ornament that reflects the previous year or something you are in too, or a photo. This is multi-purpose as it brings great memories when getting them out each year but it also gives a life legacy for them to take to their new home when they move out and have their first tree there. Baby's first Christmas - Grandpa gets them cowboy boots, doesn't matter that they won't be able to year them for perhaps years! 8th Birthday - Grandpa gets them their first pocket knife. 16th Birthday - You get a 30-30 rifle or gun of some sort. There are far more traditions, many I'm sure we just take for granite. I'll have to spend some more ponder time on this one. We'd love to hear some of your favorite or not so favorite traditions!

What is MY specific Mission that I was created for?

Good Morning my Love!

I’ve been going back and catching up on some of the readings I’ve missed. Right now I’ve been reading in Acts. I shared with you that I had so thoroughly enjoyed James, Thessalonians, I&II Timothy, Titus & I&II Peter and was struggling with getting in to reading about Paul’s journey in Acts. However, I think the previous books have prepared me for what God wanted me to see/understand in Acts.

First off but not most important, would you please look up and see what your Bible footnotes on Acts 15:29? I understand avoiding the idol food offerings and sexual sins but what is meant by the strangled animals and blood? Is this old covenant or new?

Now my major insight from last night and this morning (and boy does this give even more energy/fuel to the anticipation I have been feeling for the past month or so):

This is Paul speaking:

Acts 20:24 “I don’t care about my own life. The most important thing is that I complete my mission, the work that the Lord Jesus gave me – to tell people the Good News about God’s grace.”(NCV)

My thoughts/insight:

At first I thought … oh wow, this is all of our missions – “to tell people about the Good News about God’s grace”. However in GForce we’ve been studying the Fruits of the Spirit and in the previous chapters of Acts and other areas of the Bible I’ve been lead to, it talks about God giving each of us a special gift or calling. This gift/calling is something that energizes you, gives you joy, peace, love, anticipation in spite of the challenges. It’s not something that drags you down, weighs on you. ‘If it’s causing you to be heavy and weighted or loaded down then it’s not from God. Don’t be lead by needs. Be lead by the Spirit of God. Life with Christ equals peace, abundance, joy, love, light & easy no matter what trials come.” (Keith Moore Wed night service download paraphrase by me.)

My question to you … SPECIFICALLY what brings YOU joy when you are doing it, walking it, working it no matter how labor intensive it is or what it involves? What gets you excited? What puts pep in your step? What so totally consumes you that nothing interferes with your focus on it? Hopefully to help you better understand what I’m asking, I’ll share with you what God has laid on my heart for ME, not you, Me – Michelle. You’ve got to look and see what makes your heart just burst with fullness, brings you fulfillment, joy, peace when you are doing it. Please don’t let me influence or muddy your thoughts in any way. If you think it might, then please don’t read the following until you’ve taken time for insight of your own.

I so absolutely love serving/encouraging and helping others succeed at finding joy/peace in their lives. I love volunteering, organizing things, helping with the bookstore, checking things in, waiting on customers, getting to touch their lives for just a moment and help them find what they are looking for, to get to laugh with them, connect with them, pray with and for them, and hopefully provide at least a glimpse of encouragement and joy. I love helping come up with ideas, encouraging, brainstorming. I am good at the spur of the moment, specific needs area. I’m not so much at the come alongside and walk holding the hand for the long term but only as needed and called by God. Regarding the long-term issues, I don’t know if this is how God created me to be or if it is from things from my childhood that need healing and areas I’ve yet to learn/experience growth in. However, in reading/looking at the WHOLE words written in God’s Word, it’s not just about Paul or whatever disciple is being written about. It also is about the Believers who came along and supported the disciples so that they could do what God called them to do. Some were called to Do – others were called to support those that were called to Do. I honestly think that the mission God has created me for is to serve and support those that God has chosen to tell the Good News about God’s Grace which so brings me back to the vision that God gave me in the basement at Towanda when He gave us the name, My Fathers Blessing. Of all the areas that He showed me, my most favorite is the serving those who have served Him and no longer can due to age, health, etc and are looking for their next segment in their journey of purpose as they transition to the Gatekeepers before going on to their eternal retirement plan that’s Out of this World. I get so excited and full of passion when I see what He has shown me. I don’t know how or in what specific way but I think the time is here to act upon this calling. I know it will definitely be “outside the box” as God tends to love to laugh/have fun with us and not do the “typical” in our lives. Nothing in our amazing journey as husband and wife has been status pro from the moment we met even to the point we are at this present moment. Look at where we have been, what we’ve had and where we are now. In the world’s eyes we may have digressed with not living in a huge house, driving current vehicles, etc but I firmly believe we have progressed with shedding the excess (which we still have much to figure out what He wants done with – Ha!), being content with what we have, driving vehicles that are 100% His, minimizing, living in a 5th wheel that helps keep us close as a family and allows us to following His leading (even more so after we get it paid off). God has showed us repeatedly His providing for us, especially in the past year. Look at in our time of “financial lack” how much more we have been able to give, share and minister to others! It just blesses my socks off!! Not to mention blows my mind. Only God can do such things.

God is good … ALL the time! I’m anxious to see what He’s doing and preparing us for that’s to come. The journey is hard at times but I know well worth it. Growth is never easy but oh so glorious. I’m loving this ride and I’m ecstatic you’re on it with me.

Purpose ... staying focused

Wow ... God has totally been rocking my world with everything pointing to purpose and am I staying focused on it. It's been a wonderful time of peace knowing what He has called me to do and being freed thanks to the many challenges of the journey He has taken us on thus far to be able to say "NO" to things that truly don't fit the path He has for me. Even the boys are excited with feeling the anticipation that something BIG is going to happen in our lives. Its been hard having Randy working between Kansas and Texas and not being here with us when he is here due to his work ... but I can see God's hand in it all. He is so FAITHFUL! If you need a good book to read, check out Tommy Newberry's book The 4:8 Principle. Easy read. Helpful in putting things in perspective and helping you take control of your thoughts and thinking positive. Its one of those books you need to read several times and you still see new things. Its great to read with a friend or a study group too.

FOR SALE 1976 Starcraft 8 person boat

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ASKING PRICE: $1500 .... WIFE's asking price $1300 Here's the info: 1976 Starcraft 8 person aluminum hull, inboard Chevy 1.4L engine, OMC drive. Has new fuel filler cap & assembly. Upper bearings, seals and all fluids have been replaced in the drive unit. Prop was remanned. Has a fish/depth finder, horn radio antenna, cb radio antenna. NEEDS: Upholstery. Reverse has gone out. Trim motor is bad - it is down in the lowest setting for max speed. TRAILER: Drop down trailer with new bearings. There are new trailer tires (not auto tires) on the trailer that I put on before I brought it down here this year. New 2" hitch and chain. Just replaced boards and carpet. We have had the boat out here on the lake and we still take it out when Randy is here long enough and has the time too. I just never grew up around boats so don't have the confidence to take it out without Randy yet. Feel free to e-mail or call Randy (713-553-3036) if you have any further questions. My extent of boat knowledge is: it pulls the three person tube w my boys in it, it holds water out and doesn't sink, I can use the front section and get great sun and it goes ... generally faster than I like over the waves but boys will be boys! We've totally enjoyed it but if Randy's going to stay on the road I would rather have a jet ski as I have experience with them and can take the boys out without him.

Putting Life in Perspective

Here's a blog that will impact all lives. Puts your situation in perspective. Are you walking, talking and shining His Light as you walk the journey you are on? No matter how big or small the journey and challenges you face ... others are always watching. Check out this blog about Brady, Sara & Chloe's journey.

First Day of School 2009-10

Wow! Hard to believe my amazing Children of God are going in to the 6th and 2nd grades. Where has the time gone? This year God has us in one place long enough to get to participate in a local homeschool co-op. The boys are so excited! They couldn't get me to go to bed early enough last night! Oh the joy and warm fuzzies that does for my heart. I love being a mom!

Sad Good Byes

On July 23rd Michelle flew from Houston to meet up with Randy and the boys (who were in Kansas) in Rapid City, SD to help care for Grandpa Wendt and say our final good byes. Such a hard but wonderful time. We were so blessed to be able to spend five days loving on Grandma & Grandpa Wendt and getting to see a few of the cousins. I was honored to get to tend to Grandpa (& Grandma) who so lovingly took care of my husband when he was a wee tot. Couldn't have ever asked for any more dear people to be our Grandparents. So thankful our sons were able to get to know their Great Grandparents. God blessed us with a special gift of Grandpa reviving enough to reminisce with Randy about different times as he grew up. It was heart felt time for my husband to get to thank Grandpa for all the wonderful things he has done in his life, love he has given and the lessons he has taught him. During one of Grandpa's lucid moments we got to hear each of them remember when they met. Grandpa even said he'd definitely marry Grandma all over again. Grandma is going to be lost with her other half of one waiting for her in Heaven but at least we were able to confirm that he would be waiting for us to get there. If you get there before we do, please give him a great big hug for us! We love you Grandpa Wendt!

We got the call Wednesday night, 08/05/09, that Grandpa had passed. The boys and I were scheduled to fly back out the next morning to help take care of Grandpa until he finally passed in to God's loving arms. Amazing enough, priceline.com refunded our entire airfare with no penalties. God is so faithful and good ALL the time.

Total Chaos!

Okay ... my guys have been gone 2-1/2 days. Since I haven't had a working phone and the only way to get in touch with me is via e-mail or facebook, I've spent more time on the computer than I planned. My goal while the guys being gone (besides taking care of my responsibilities) is to get our home completely cleaned out, decluttered, treated for insects, back room painted and put back together in a homey atmosphere.

Well, I'm no where near where I thought I would be at this point. Today I'm feeling overwhelmed by the chaos I'm sitting in the middle of. I've been pulling EVERYTHING out of cabinets and cupboards to sort through and get ready to treat. Thus the overwhelmedness. At times I just sit down and play a quick game on the computer as I just don't feel like I'm making any progress and I need to see some completion somewhere ... even if its a silly game! This last time I sat down I found myself being so THANKFUL that God doesn't get overwhelmed with the messes we get ourselves in to or the junk we clutter. With His amazing sense of humor I'm sure He chuckles at us and finds a lot of amusement in our shenanigans. I'm so glad that He's ultimately in control in my life and knows what direction to push me in. I love knowing I can trust Him and that He loves me so much He will allow me to ... be me. Now just to step back, take a deep breath, say a Thankful prayer so I can get back to organizing chaos! PONDER POINT: Are you in a situation that you need to step back, refocus your mind-set, Thank Him, Praise Him, take a deep breath ... then get back into the journey?

Heart fuzzies!

I was just able to get a text from Malachi that said, "We're at HEB. I miss you already soooo much!" My heart is sad for him as I don't want him to be sad but yet at the same time I'm feeling like I'm not such a bad mom after all. Whoopee!! I mean HEB is only about 9 miles from here and he's only been gone 45 minutes. ADDENDUM: I later learned from Randy that when he got back out to the truck Malachi looked upset but wouldn't say anything. He finally got him to slide over by him and snuggle in. Malachi then told him he was missing me so much. Randy said he had such a long face and was doing all he could not to cry. He offered to bring him back home as it wasn't too late. He said it was hard for Malachi to chose but getting to see Grandma & Grandpa & Uncle Tony & Aunt Cheri finally won out. I'm proud of Randy for being so sensitive. PONDER POINT: There are points in our Christian Walk that we have to leave our current situation to be blessed in another area. It doesn't mean that God won't return us (a better person obviously) to our present situation but we have to be willing to make the choice to accept the journey to what is ahead and the blessings that are waiting and leave the comfort zone behind. What choices has God offered you that you had to decide, Do I stay where I am OR Go where He is leading/calling?

Kansas Bound

Wow! Randy was suppose to go to Kansas to check on my parents and work on some roofs after the nasty hail storm they got. However within the final few hours before leaving the boys ended up getting to go with him - thanks to Uncle Tony & Aunt Cheri coming to town too. My head is still spinning and I'm sure it will set in soon that I'm all here by myself in Texas. I don't even know for sure how long they are going to be gone. On top of that I'm on foot as my van broke down yesterday. The dogs are already mopping around and the boys' friend, Bobbie, is hanging around with me playing games and walking the dogs - he misses them already too. Oh yeah ... my cell phone has gone on the blink and isn't working either. Talk about feeling like I'm under attack and have amazing blessings waiting to flow down on me. Guess we'll have to stay tuned and see what all transpires. I think I'm more excited about what's to come than anything and possibly a little scared that I will be so overwhelmed by all that God is preparing to bless me with.

Date Night with the Gilmores!

Wow! A date night! Thanks to Julia Copeland and our own foresight that if we didn't have partners we'd probably stay home and work, we ended up having a fun night with the Gilmores. We ate at Wings & More, visted the Woodlands Mall, had some utterly nasty smoothies at Barnes & Nobles (okay one sip and it was a no way get you money back deal. I swear I've cleaned up vomit from a cat that resembled the texture and smell of this stuff!) Susan watered a dog (it resembled a dog but was the size of a small pony!) on the side walk then walked down by the river back to the parking lot. Once home, John & Susan dropped us off and we proceeded to watch movies (I had to chat some on FB) until 4 AM when Randy finally deemed it time for bed. Go figure ... I was ready for bed by 11! All in all, a great night! Thanks everyone for all the input and encouragement. Couples should do things like this more often!

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Raymond & Tyler Visit

Our family had ran to scope out the Woodlands Mall to get ready for our big date night tomorrow night when we got a call from Uncle Ray saying he and Tyler would be blowing through Houston on their way from Yuma to FL did we want to meet up? We were already close to 40 minutes closer so we loaded up and headed to a TA truck stop on East I-10 headed towards Beaumont. We had a wonderful evening of laughing and talking and the cousins got a chance to get to know each other better and play somewhat. They even got the truckers at another table somewhat involved in a game of napkin ball ... oops! (They were good sports about it!) We thoroughly enjoyed our time just wish Jaymie & Melisa could have been there too! Randy was dreading the 1 hour and 40 minute drive home ... but its a lot shorter than a drive to South Dakota!!

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Happy 4th of July!!

What a great day! We met some new friends, Edward & Hollie Estis & Daniel, as well as had "old" friends over for the evening. It was beautiful weather ... could have been hotter and most definitely could have been cooler ... but the fireworks were still great. The boys were somewhat bummed when we were told we couldn't set off fireworks where we lived but were allowed to get some firecrackers and pocket the rest of what was budgeted for fireworks ... so wasn't so bad after all. Of course, when evening hit and all the neighbors were lighting fireworks there was a bit of disappointment but the boys were in hog heaven when they got to climb up on the roof to watch the show. No one fell off ... they just knocked a big hole in the skylight in Randy & I's room - no biggie! We were proud to honor all those who fought for our freedom and still do to this day. Thank you and your families. Happy and Safe 4th of July to you all!

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My Baby is growing up!

My baby is growing up way too fast!!! Tonight Josiah pulled out his bottom eye tooth all by himself. His dad nor I were even allowed to touch it just to make sure we didn't pull it out for him. Where has the time gone?

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Happy 4th of July!!

Tomorrow we celebrate the Freedom of our Nation. Every Day we should celebrate our Freedom of Life.

Have a Safe and Happy 4th of July!

Meaning of a Flag Draped Coffin

All Americans should be given this lesson. Those who think that America is an arrogant nation should really reconsider that thought. Our founding fathers used GOD's word and teachings to establish our Great Nation and I think it's high time Americans get re-educated about this Nation's history. Pass it along and be proud of the country we live in and even more proud of those who serve to protect our 'GOD GIVEN' rights and freedoms.

I hope you take the time to read this ... To understand what the flag draped coffin really means ... Here is how to understand the flag that laid upon it and is surrendered to so many widows and widowers.

Do you know that at military funerals, the 21-gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?

Have you ever noticed the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the United States of America Flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day!

The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life.

The 2ndfold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.

The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of the country to attain peace throughout the world.

The 4th fold represents the weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.

The 5th fold is a tribute to the country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, 'Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.'

The 6th fold is for where people's hearts lie It is with their heart that They pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States Of America , and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

The 7th fold is a tribute to its Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that they protect their country and their flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of their republic.

The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.

The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers. For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.

The 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of their country since they were first born.

The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.

The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are ! Uppermost reminding them of their nations motto, 'In God We Trust.'

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for them the rights, privileges and freedoms they enjoy today.

There are some traditions and ways of doing things that have deep meaning. In the future, you'll see flags folded and now you will know why.

Share this with the children you love and all others who love what is referred to, the symbol of ' Liberty and Freedom.'

MAYBE THE SUPREME COURT SHOULD READ THIS EXPLANATION BEFORE THEY RENDER THEIR DECISION ON THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. FORWARD IT; MAYBE SOMEONE WITH THE NECESSARY POWER, OR POLITICAL AND FINANCIAL INFLUENCE, WILL GET IT TO THEM.

IN THE MEANTIME, MAY GOD PROTECT US ALWAYS.

ONE NATION, UNDER GOD, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.

Tender feelers

Today is one of those days … I’m trying to keep my focus on Him and going through the challenges to strengthen who He has created me to be and educate me so I can be more effective in the ministry/outreach He has chosen. It is hard though when people whom you feel are friends make comments which appear to be judging you for where you are or what you are going through. I get it that they don’t know what God is doing … but their judgment and comments hurt nonetheless, especially this person who is sensitive and at the present time walking this part of the journey which isn’t very comfortable but greatly rewarding when my eyes are focused correctly. My human worldly side wants to stand up and rattle off all the wonderful things I’ve had, done and been throughout my life … but such is not to be. It is a major eye opener in helping me to make sure I’m not doing the same to others. God has taken us down some paths that I definitely would never have chosen but opens doors to walk beside those who have gone through or are going through challenges with a heart-to-heart, hands-on knowledge. Wisdom is definitely not something you gain with age, it comes with hands-on experience.

Crawfish ... Yum or Yuck!

One of our neighbors had a crawfish party tonight ... and my family was introduced to crawfish. They all tried them but I don't think any of them fell instantly in like with them. The response from the boys was that they were okay. Years back when their Grandma Brown ended up guardedly trying them on her way to Florida to minister with Ministry Among Native Americans ... she instantly got in to the popping the heads and sucking the meat out. Leave it to Grandma. Too bad she wasn't here to show the boys how to do it. Maybe her enthusiasm would have won them over a bit more!

Baptism

We just got home from the both Josiah & Malachi being baptized tonight. What a special night ... AND it ended with chocolate cake after the service. Who knew!! Our sons are growing up so fast. Tonight did amazing things to my heart. I'm with them almost 24/7 and yet I feel like I'm missing out on so much with them.

Happy 18th Birthday Jonathan Daniel Christopher Brown!

Josiah, Dano & Malachi: Just one of the many reasons Josiah & Malachi love their cousin Dano! Dano teaching Malachi how to dance: Josiah & Malachi just can't get Dano's moves quite right yet! Mercedes, Josiah & Dano at her 18th party: Dano reading to Reilly & Malachi at Great Grannie's 80+ birthday: It's a special day and we are celebrating with you in our hearts. We love and miss you! Most of my pictures are in storage ... so will upload more when can. Happy Birthday Dano!! We Love you!

Happy Birthday Amber Brown!

Here's just a few pictures from this year in her life:

Happy 9th Birthday Brodie!

What a blessing to be able to celebrate Brodie's 9th birthday with friends and family at the Angleton Rec Center. Oh what fun! It was quite the challenge getting the candles all lit at the same time with the Texas wind ... good thing Chelsey had gotten the trick candles ... it may have been a massacre otherwise! Lots of swimming and fun!

What type of Mother Hen Are You?
by Montessorimom.com: Educational Resource

Wow ... and life goes on

Its been an amazing journey since my birthday weekend but PTL! this past week has shown great progress. Hopefully I will be able to have energy enough to get caught up on our home and updating the blog.

This journey of illness I was taken on was quite the experience for me. Great opportunity to witness to the ER doctor not once but twice in one weekend! She still is amazed that I'm alive. Now that I'm regaining health, I'm absolutely thankful to God that I am and definitely know that when it comes to health issues for those in our family ... I'm the one that has that knowledge/experience. We've always joked that if anything ever happens to Randy health wise I'll be by his side getting all I can done ... but I'll be (excuse the term) "screwed" if its me that has any health needs. Gotta love him anyway. It's just not Randy's area of expertise and this past two months has definitely confirmed it! Ha! What a walk it was/is. Its quite humbling to know that you might not make it and that if God does take you that your children will be there with you when it happens. Not something I desire for my children to have to go through ... nor do I relish the idea of them growing up without me in their lives. It was a heart wrenching time when I was teetering and had to keep claiming God's promises and reminding myself that He loves my husband and sons far more than I ever could. They have always been God's but I still wholeheartedly love them with all the massive love He created in me. As hard as it was to come to the acceptance that God might take me home and leave my then 7 yo and 11 yo sons to join me later ... it was very reassuring to know that He has their future in His hands and will provide for them far better than I ever can. During this time of illness I spent much time in the Word and even more time in prayer seeking God's will and whether there was something in my life that was preventing me from being healed as I know there were many faithful prayer warriors lifting me up. My human side (w a little help from some friends) kept questioning if I was missing something and why I wasn't receiving healing but God was/is faithful and kept/keeps giving me verses about taking me through things to prepare me for what is to come in the plans/ministry He has for me. During the time that I was bedridden (or I should say coach ridden due to excruciating pain brought on by even air moving little lone children or a husband moving around or trying to touch me.) I spent a few weeks where I couldn't even read due to my being too weak and in pain. It was quite a reassurance and comfort when my beloved sons would read our Project 3:45 chapters and more from the Bible to me. Needless to say I have devoured much scripture and a few books (thanks to my mom for sending me some new ones!) in the last week of feeling better! I don't know what is to come ... I only know that my already tender heart is even more sensitive and open now. I'm seeking to keep my priorities and focus where God directs. Thankfully I have an all loving God who will help me serve according to His will. Thanks for ALL your prayers and petitions on behalf of myself and my family. May God bless you deeply.

It is Done enough ...

Finally! The basics are done on the deck, only the final screws and entry steps to go. The guys decided they deserved to take a break and go boating and tubing. I love being able to sit on our deck and watch them out on the lake. Here's a picture they took from the boat as they went cruised by.

Memorial Day Weekend ... or is it Labor Day ... ha!

Okay it's Memorial Day but the guys are feeling like its LABOR Day weekend. We moved to our new location on Monday and now get to use this weekend to get the deck torn apart and put back together ... at least it's the typical weekend weather and overcast and cool for at least part of the time.

Surprise!

We had planned to have Malachi's 8th birthday party May 15th with an overnight party but my illness negated that event from happening. PTL! God, as always, provided in ways only He can by having Shannan suggest a cook-out & swim party at their home her treat on Sunday afternoon ... which became a Surprise Party for Malachi. And boy was he surprised. He thought we were just going over to swim and eat supper ... he was so overwhelmed when everyone jumped out and hollered surprise when he went inside ... he was quiet for some time processing all his excitement. I am in deep debt and full of immense gratitude to Shannan and Karla for making this party happen for Malachi. It was very hard and disappointing for me (& Malachi) to be too sick and weak to throw a party. Once again, God showing who's in control and can do ALL things. Thank you all!

Classical Homeopath & Reconnective Therapist

I have had the honor and pleasure of personally meeting and spend time with Michele. Even if you are not in the St. Paul area you can benefit from her knowledge and expertise. I've posted her info here so I have access to her contact info from wherever I am to get natural direction on our health issues. Check out her website! Michele Brookhaus, RSHom(NA), CCH Classical Homeopath and Reconnective Therapist 1676 Minnehaha Ave W. St. Paul, MN 55104 www.beyondwell.com

BOOK: My Son, John By Kathi Macias

This book has just been published by Kathi Macias and Sheaf House Publishing. It is a heart touching story of a family's journey. I read it the night I received it in the mail ... after my family was in bed -- a necessity since it was a read until its done kind of book.

Back Cover:

MURDER, COULD THERE BE A MORE CHILLING WORD? When Liz Peterson's elderly mother is found viciously beaten to death in her home, Liz and her husband, Charles, along with their grown son, John, and teenage daughter, Sarah, struggle to make sense of a senseless act. And then a second blow -- more devastating, if possible, than the first -- rocks them to their core. John is arrested for his grandmother's murder. As what's left of the Peterson family begins to crumble under the weight of loss and accusation, the Petersons' longstanding Christian faith is put to the test in a way they could never have imagined, and unconditional love is stretched to its limits. Can God's grace reach even to the deepest agony o the soul and bring healing to a family torn apart by a brutal crime?

"MY SON, JOHN is a powerful and compelling story about love, mercy, and the undeserved gift of grace. A horrific crime almost tears the Peterson family apart yet in the midst of their pain and sorrow, they discover how to both forgive and be forgiven. You'll never forget this book!" -Melanie Dobson, Author of The Black Cloister AND Together for GOD

"MY SON, JOHN is the deeply moving story of one mother's unswerving love for her son, and her journey to faith during incredibly difficult circumstances. The message of forgiveness and love is powerful, and you won't be sorry you journeyed with Liz to the glorious resolution." - Virginia Smith, Author of Just As I Am AND Sincerely Mayla.

ISBN-13 978-0-9797485-4-7 Trade paperback with study guide and resources list

Happy Easter ... He is Risen!

Our family Easter basket was delivered to the McDonald's (Thanks Grandpa Larry Butler who entered us in the drawing!)in Webster so we got to go pick it up. The boys were so excited about it as were we as we weren't budgeted to be able to provide such. (Once again God provided in a way only He could!) We opened the basket Saturday night since our church was doing four services for Easter this year and Randy & I were helping at three of them.

Today definitely made for a long day but very blessed day. We were blessed with some friends that took our sons after the first service so they wouldn't have to sit through all the services. The boys had a blast hunting eggs and just hanging out ... even though we didn't get done there til mid-afternoon. We were exhuasted but got to join in the fun of hunting. We even did our traditional "strawberries". We've missed a lot of family traditions this past year but this one definitely made it this time!

Impossible to Possible

Today in our Bible Study/Science Activity we ...

1) Filled a drinking glass almost to the top with water.

2) Dropped a small cork (we used a fishing bobber - of course!) into the glass, and make the cork float in the center of the water without touching the glass.

What Happened?

The cork kept floating off to the side. It seemed impossible to keep it in the center even if we used our hands on the glass, blew on it, shook the floor (an advantage of living in a 5th wheel), etc. Nothing worked.

THEN We ...

Slowly poured water from another glass until the water rose just above the rim without spilling.

What HAPPENED?

The cork moved to where the water was the highest ... the center. And it didn't take any help or prompting from us to get it to move there. It happened automatic when the water was added. OUTCOME:

It wasn't possible until we knew to fill the glass to the top. Then the cork always, no matter how it was shaken or moved, returned to the center.

LIFE APPLICATION:

If we keep our life full of God's word, Fellowship with other Believers, Music, Reading, TV, positive input ... no matter what happens around us ... we can stay centered or grounded in Christ through all the tribulations that come our way.

Happy Birthday Michelle

Wow! What an amazing year! My guys have made this a wonderful birthday. I'm tired from the amazing Prayer conference I was treated to by God and a faithful new friend (Susan) who was listening to Him to allow me to be blessed and renewed. Even though my husband forgot when we first woke up that it was my birthday he recovered later in the day by planning a surprise with my boys of me not having to help bake my own cake AND they took me out to eat Mexican food. My father also called and left me a message where he sang Happy Birthday to me. For those of you that know my dad ... I'm not sure if that was a good thing or not! Ha! He can't carry a note in a bucket ... but I must be getting old and losing my hearing as I appreciated/enjoyed it! -- Guess that must be how God feels when we lift our voices in Praise to Him whether we can sing and dance or not! PTL The boys were excited because while I was at the retreat they picked out a Bible Cover for my new Bible at the Church Bookstore to surprise me with. They're still think jewelry is the best gift for mom but they wanted to surprise me with something different. I'm just thankful that my sons are so excited about getting gifts for others. I could have done without the cool whip on/in my nose at the Mexican restaurant but my boys got a good laugh from it. (Randy too!) We were so stuffed but had to come come and have some of the chocolate cake and chocolate chip ice cream that they had surprised me with as its just not a birthday without cake and ice cream according to my sons. For the record ... I am NOT 71 years old nor 17 years old, just somewhere in between. They were very creative with how they came up with using the candles we had. (They figured my age added up equaled what the candles added up too so it would work. Creative! They think it should count as some homeschool credit ... hmm.) Randy, specially made for me Josiah, my firstborn Malachi, our final book Thanks to all of you who sent e-mail cards, messages, called, etc. I appreciated them all. I'm greatful that God allowed my mom to endure the pain of my birth all those years ago.